6 Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist
Many people think they are experts when it comes to their skin and appearance, and in a sense, this is true since they have been living in it their whole lives. However, it doesn't mean we couldn't all still learn a few things from our dermatologists.
At Plateroti Dermatology in Templeton, California, Dr. Carmelo Plateroti and our highly skilled team treat a wide range of dermatologic and aesthetic concerns. We use an integrative approach employing the best Western medicine practices and the most successful holistic care combined with our collective over 30 years of experience for excellent, high-quality results.
Questions to ask your dermatologist
Asking questions about any health condition or aesthetic concern is an important part of knowing what to expect and having successful results. For example:
Skin cancer
What can I do to prevent skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, so everyone should be taking steps to keep their skin safe. These can include always using a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more, avoiding the sun as much as possible between 10 am and 4 pm, and never using a tanning bed.
What should I watch out for with my skin?
It's a good idea to check the skin regularly for any changes that could indicate skin cancer. Examples include any bumps, spots, growths, or moles that are new, growing, changing, or bleeding. Wart-like growths and rough or scaly red patches that crust or bleed could be a cause for concern as well.
Aesthetic concerns
What should my skin care regimen include?
There are so many products on the market it's hard for people to know what's right for them. Getting recommendations from a dermatologist can help ensure high-quality products that are right for an individual's particular skin type and issues.
What should I be doing to maintain my appearance and slow down the signs of aging?
Sometimes it's better to treat issues, such as wrinkles, earlier rather than later before they become too deeply set. A dermatologist can help suggest optimal treatments and timelines. They also know about the latest technologies and treatments, so they can make recommendations of creams, lasers, injectables, and more that have the best possible results.
How does my diet affect my skin?
For people who experience acne, a dermatologist can help determine if certain foods are a trigger and help guide them on an elimination diet to try to figure out the culprit to avoid.
What would you recommend?
Asking a dermatologist this question can open up the conversation in several ways. For one, it's common for people to fixate on what they perceive is a significant flaw in their appearance when to others it's barely noticeable. Dermatologists can also recommend a variety of treatments that can help stave off more involved procedures later. If a patient asks this question, the doctor can feel more comfortable in bringing up other issues and suggested solutions.
Whether your questions are dermatologic or aesthetic in nature, we can help. Click our request button, or contact us at 805-434-2526 to make an appointment today.