At What Age Should You See A Dermatologist?
From the acne-prone years of adolescence to the mature concerns of later decades, we address the pivotal moments when a dermatologist's expertise becomes crucial. This blog post serves as your comprehensive guide, illuminating how proactive and age-appropriate skin care can effectively maintain your skin’s health and beauty.
Embarking on a skincare journey can often require visiting a dermatologist to address different skin concerns.
Q: What Is the Right Age to Start Visiting a Dermatologist?
A: While there's no specific age that's 'right' for everyone, Dr. Cervantes advises, “Every kid should come in and see a dermatologist at least once.” When a child begins to develop severe acne, it’s important to get their first dermatology screening when breakouts occur, or in their early teenage years. Additionally, if a child has an asymmetrical mole, develops a wart that is unresponsive to medication, has irregular skin growths, or unexplained rashes, you should make your child a dermatology appointment.
Q: Can Children Benefit from Dermatological Care?
A: Yes, children can benefit, especially if they have conditions like:
Severe acne
Eczema
Unusual moles
Psoriasis
Vitiligo
Allergic responses triggered by exposure to pollen, contact with certain fabrics or plants (poison ivy), household chemicals, and animal dander.
Other conditions
Dermatologists play a key role in educating about skincare, sun protection, and recognizing potential skin issues, ultimately empowering families in managing their children's skin health. Early intervention can prevent complications later in life.
Q: Is Pediatric Dermatology Different From Regular Dermatology?
A: Pediatric dermatologists specialize in skin conditions among children. Dr. Cervantes explains, “Pediatric dermatologists go through a separate fellowship after residency where they focus just on kids.” People of all ages can see a board-certified dermatologist. However, if our doctors feel a child has a “condition that goes above what we're normally used to treating,” Dr. Cervantes says they refer to highly acclaimed pediatric dermatologists in the San Antonio area.
Q: When should you start regularly seeing a dermatologist?
A: It's recommended to start seeing a dermatologist regularly in your late teens or early twenties. This is a pivotal time for skin health, as the skin undergoes various changes due to hormonal fluctuations and environmental exposures. Regular dermatological check-ups can help in the early detection and management of common skin issues like acne, sun damage, and the beginnings of skin aging.
Q: What Preventative Skin Care Measures Should Be Discussed with a Dermatologist?
A: Understanding and implementing preventative skin care measures is pivotal for maintaining healthy skin. Let's explore key practices, as advised by dermatologists, to protect and nurture our skin effectively.
Personalized Skincare Routine
Every skin type is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. A dermatologist can help identify your specific skin type and recommend a skincare routine that addresses your individual needs. This might include recommendations on gentle cleansers, moisturizers, exfoliants, and products for specific concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation.
Sun Protection
Regular use of sunscreen with an appropriate SPF level is critical to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. We love to emphasize the importance of applying sunscreen daily, not just during sunny days, and reapplying it every two hours when exposed to the sun for prolonged periods.
Regular Skin Examinations
Routine skin checks are vital for early detection of any abnormal changes, such as new moles or changes in existing ones, which could be signs of skin cancer. Dermatologists can guide patients on how to perform self-examinations and advise on the frequency of professional skin evaluations.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
We often highlight the impact of lifestyle factors on skin health. This includes a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, as these can adversely affect skin health.
It’s never too early to start looking after your skin
Schedule a consultation today with one of our expert dermatologists, Dr. Cervantes or Dr. Moore.
LIV Dermatology & Aesthetics is located in Shavano Park in San Antonio, Texas, specializing in dermatology, injectables, lasers, body contouring, and more.