Updated April 2025
Your skin does a lot more than you might think – it’s your body’s first line of defense and takes on a lot of wear and tear. It shields you from germs, covers your blood vessels, nerves, and organs, and even helps keep water out.
So, when something doesn’t feel right, it might be time to call in a professional. If you're not comfortable with your skin, there could be underlying reasons that a dermatologist needs to look into. Let’s break down the common reasons to see a dermatologist and why it matters.
Struggling with Acne That Just Won’t Go Away?
If you’ve tried every home remedy and over-the-counter product out there and your acne still won’t quit, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Sometimes what looks like acne might be a different skin condition altogether. A dermatologist can give you a proper diagnosis and get you started on a treatment plan that actually works. Don’t wait it out – persistent acne is a solid reason to see a dermatologist.
Noticing Changes in Your Moles?
Have you had moles since childhood that are suddenly changing in size, shape, or color? That’s a big red flag. If your moles start itching, hurting, or bleeding, don’t brush it off – make an appointment with a dermatologist right away.
Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones, and early detection is key. It’s also a smart idea to get a full skin check-up once a year.
Dealing with Dry, Itchy, or Irritated Skin?
If your skin’s been dry, itchy, or irritated for more than a week, it might be more than just a reaction to weather or a new soap. Conditions like eczema could be to blame, and that’s something a dermatologist should evaluate. They’ll take a look and recommend the best treatment to bring your skin back to health.
Rough or Scaly Patches That Won’t Go Away?
You might be dealing with psoriasis, which is caused by an autoimmune disorder. It sends signals to your immune system that make skin cells grow too fast, piling up on the surface. This can cause rough, scaly patches that are uncomfortable and hard to ignore. Seeing a dermatologist quickly is important – they may need to run tests, like a blood test or a scalp biopsy, to get a full picture of what’s going on.
Losing Hair or Noticing Bald Spots?
It’s completely normal to lose about 50 to 150 hairs a day. But if you’re seeing clumps of hair coming out or noticeable bald spots forming, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Hair loss can be caused by a number of things, and a dermatologist can assess your situation and figure out the best course of action to treat it.
Other Reasons to See a Dermatologist
There are plenty of other skin, hair, and nail issues that call for a dermatologist’s help, including:
- Ingrown nails, fungal infections, and nail disorders
- Persistent rashes or hives
- Acne scars, cuts, and blemishes
- Rosacea, especially when it affects the eyes
- Recurring skin irritation or unexplained flare-ups
Got an Infection?
Skin infections – whether from yeast, fungi, viruses, or bacteria – are another big reason to seek out an experienced dermatologist. For example, athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus and can be both irritating and painful. Viruses can lead to things like warts or herpes, while bacterial infections like cellulitis can become dangerous if left untreated. Even lice and mites can spread contagious, itchy skin conditions. Our team can help you get to the root of the problem and provide the right treatment fast.
When’s the Right Time?
Wondering when you should start seeing a dermatologist regularly? Most experts suggest making that first visit in your mid-20s. That’s usually when signs of aging begin to show, and your skin may need a bit more TLC. Catching skin issues early can make a huge difference and could even save your life.
When it comes to the health and appearance of your skin, hair, or nails, experience truly matters. The more specialized knowledge a dermatologist has, the better your outcome. At Care New England, our dermatologists bring a wealth of experience to the table, with training in everything from skin cancer surgery to treating complex hair and nail issues.
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Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not serve as medical advice, consultation, or diagnosis. If you have a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical treatment.