5 Reasons to See a Dermatologist

Did you know your skin is your body’s largest organ? The average adult has about 8 pounds and 22 square feet of this special tissue. With so much surface area, there’s no shortage of issues that trigger skin concerns. 

At North Pacific Dermatology, with offices in Arcata and Crescent City, California, our skilled providers offer a comprehensive line of dermatological and aesthetic services to address your most pressing skin issues. 

Here’s a look at five of the most common skin problems that bring people to the dermatologist.  

1. Skin cancer

You might look in the mirror every day, but it can be hard to know if a new mole, freckle, or skin change is harmless or something more serious, like skin cancer. Anyone can get skin cancer, but your risk is higher if you:

• Are a blonde or redhead
• Have blue or green eyes
• Sunburn or freckle easily
• Have a lot of moles (over 50)
• Have a history of sunburns (especially with blisters)
• Have a family history of skin cancer
• Used tanning beds
• Received an organ transplant 

A simple skin cancer screening with a dermatologist helps detect skin cancer early when it’s the most treatable. What’s more? Early treatment means you’re less likely to need invasive therapies that leave you significant scars. 

2. Acne

Acne, one of the top skin concerns in the US, causes different blemishes, including non-inflammatory blackheads, whiteheads, which are easier to treat, and inflammatory acne, like papules, pustules, nodules (hard lesions under your skin), conglobata (collections of inflamed nodules)m, and cystic acne. 

People of all ages develop acne, which isn’t always easy to get rid of. A dermatologist can diagnose what type of acne you have and help you get to the bottom of these unsightly bumps and blemishes. 

3. Eczema

Eczema, a group of skin conditions characterized by flaky, dry skin patches, can develop almost anywhere on your body. Different types of eczema have different triggers, including:

• Certain foods (especially peanuts, milk, soy, wheat, fish, and eggs most commonly)
• Certain fabrics and materials
• Stress
• Dry air (lack of humidity)
• Using hot water
• Sweaty, hot skin
• Tags in clothing
• Dyes or chemical washes 
• Sunscreen
• Fragrance and coloring
• Scented and foaming soaps
• Seasonal and environmental allergies
• Cigarette smoke
• Baby and personal care wipes

There’s no cure for eczema, but a dermatologist evaluates your skin and helps you get to the root cause of your skin condition so you can find effective relief. 

4. Infections, allergies, and bug bites or stings

Skin infections can develop because of fungus, viruses, bacteria, or yeast and require medical treatment from a dermatologist for effective relief.

For example, viruses may trigger herpes or highly contagious warts, and bacterial infections, like cellulitis, can lead to serious health problems—even death—if not treated. 

Contact with certain plants, like poison oak, can also trigger an itchy, blistering rash. While most people don’t need medical attention, severe cases or strong reactions bring thousands to a dermatologist every year. 

And finally, bug (and insect) bites or stings are annoying. But sometimes, these pesky critters carry bacteria and viruses, like the West Nile Virus, that can trigger serious illness in humans. If you get bitten or stung, see a dermatologist if the bite or sting looks suspicious or doesn’t heal. 

5. Fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging

Loose, saggy skin, fine lines, wrinkles and other visible signs of aging bring many people to the dermatologist for help. The good news is that many minimally invasive treatments can help improve your skin and restore your youthful appearance.

For example, the right combination of injectables can minimize fine lines and wrinkles or add volume where you need it most, like thinning lips or sunken cheeks and temples. Chemical peels and laser therapy can resurface your skin, improving the appearance of dark spots and other signs of aging. 

Your North Pacific Dermatology provider evaluates your skin and discusses your goals to give personalized rejuvenation recommendations.   

If you have a skin concern, schedule an appointment online or over the phone at North Pacific Dermatology in Arcata and Crescent City, California.