Dermatology Issues ...
1 What is a dermatologist?*
A dermatologist is a physician who is trained to evaluate and manage pediatric and adult patients with benign and malignant disorders of the skin, hair, nails and adjacent mucous membranes. A dermatologist has had additional training and experience in the following:
a. The diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, melanomas, moles, and other tumors of the skin.
b. The management of contact dermatitis and other inflammatory skin disorders.
c. The recognition of the skin manifestations of systemic and infectious diseases.
d. Dermatopathology.
e. Surgical techniques used in dermatology.
Dermatologists also manage cosmetic disorders of the skin, including hair loss, scars, and skin changes.
2 What does it mean to be "board certified?"*
The certification process is designed to assure the public that a certified medical specialist has successfully completed an approved educational program and an evaluation, including an examination process designed to assess the knowledge, experience and skills requisite to the provision of high quality patient care in that specialty.
3 I have a lot of dark spots and wrinkles on my face. What can I do about this?
These are a natural part of aging and are also related to sun exposure. The use of a sunscreen on a daily basis is the first step to better skin. There are many ways available to treat these conditions ranging from mild chemical peels to light based therapies such as Intense Pulsed Light technology. The good news is that there currently are many ways to improve your skin quality.
4 I have fair skin and have had lots of sun exposure. Do I need to be checked for skin cancer?
The short answer is: “Yes, absolutely!” To be more specific, persons with known risk factors (something that affects your chance of getting a disease) for skin cancer should have their skin checked regularly by a Dermatologist. Risk factors for the most common forms of skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma) include: extensive ultraviolet light exposure (both from the sun and from tanning beds) without use of sun protection, being fair skinned, a history of previous skin cancer, smoking, reduced immunity, genetic susceptibility, arsenic exposure, and being of male gender. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends annual skin checks for persons with two or more of these risk factors. For more information about skin cancer, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s patient education website, www.SkinCarePhysicians.com.
5 How common is skin cancer? Is it preventable?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (www.skincancer.org), more than 20 people a day will die from skin cancer (melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma) in 2007. And, sadly, one in five Americans and one in three Caucasians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. A person’s risk for skin cancer doubles after five or more sunburns. Yes, you can take steps to protect yourself from getting skin cancer. The most important thing you can do is minimize your exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun (and from tanning beds). Use a sunscreen with at least a SPF factor of 15, wear sunglasses and a hat, and/or sun protective clothing. Avoid outdoor activities between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. UVR can pass through clouds and reflect off water, sand, or snow. For more information on skin cancer prevention and sun protection, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s patient education website, www.SkinCarePhysicians.com
6 I have osteoporosis and have heard that using sunscreen prevents the production of vitamin D in my skin. Should I stop using sunscreen in order to help my bone health?
We all need vitamin D in order to use the minerals calcium and phosphorus, which help keep our bones healthy. The form of vitamin D important for this is produced in our skin upon exposure to the sun. However, a research study done in Australia has shown that regularly using sunscreen will not cause a vitamin D deficiency. You should also know that most dairy products in the United States are fortified with vitamin D (as well as being rich in calcium.) Salmon is another good source of vitamin D and calcium; there are also numerous dietary supplements containing these ingredients. The good news is that you do not have to trade skin health for bone health! For more information on sunscreens, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s patient education website, www.SkinCarePhysicians.com.
7 I am confused about skin care. What do you recommend?
No wonder you are confused! There is an absolutely bewildering array of products and services being marketed to you every day! Between advertisements for multi-step “regimens,” facials, anti-aging products, and procedures, it is hard to know where to start. In general, good skin care is simple. The basics include using non-drying cleansers, and moisturizing after cleansing. The single most important part of a skin care program is to help prevent skin cancer and aging changes by using a sunscreen (with a minimum SPF of 15) EVERY DAY to all sun-exposed areas. Your Dermatologist can make more specific recommendations after evaluating your needs, wants, and state of skin health. Your Dermatologist is the best source of information on the care of your skin in health and disease. For more information on skin care, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s patient education website, www.SkinCarePhysicians.com.
8 My child has acne. Do we need to see a dermatologist?
Acne severity varies greatly from person to person. Most children will initially have mild acne that starts on the forehead and progresses downward to involve more of the face over time. Mild acne (oily skin, whiteheads, and small pimples) may respond to over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. If these products do not produce improvement with 6-8 weeks of regular use, it is time to see your Dermatologist. Moderate acne, particularly when there is inflammation (redness, pustules), will usually require a prescription product for improvement. It is important to get treatment for inflammation in order to prevent scarring and social stigmatism. For more information on acne, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s patient education website, www.SkinCarePhysicians.com.
*Excerpts from the American Board of Dermatology website. For further information about the medical specialty of dermatology or about board certification, visit their website at www.abderm.org.
