Dermatologists are doctors who specifically diagnose, investigate, treat, and manage skin conditions and diseases, such as moles, skin cancer, eczema, psoriasis and acne. Additionally, dermatologists are experts in dealing with nail and hair problems including hair loss or alopecia, and excessive hair growth.
A Dermatologist is not related to the beauty industry, although this common misconception results from the fact that some skin conditions can of course have cosmetic concerns as well as serious health worries.
How qualified are Dermatologists?
Dermatologists are expert medical doctors and skin surgeons. Before you can start dermatology training, you must undertake the same university training as other doctors. That’s a minimum of 5 years undergraduate training plus a relevant postgraduate qualification. After that, it then takes a further 4 years to become a dermatologist physician.
Whilst GPs can assist with skin conditions and refer patients to a dermatologist, a dermatologist is medically qualified having completed the additional training to become an expert specialist physician in dermatology.
What conditions does a Dermatologist treat?
A Dermatologist can diagnose and treat over 3,000 conditions. We regularly see and understand how hair and skin problems can harm patients’ sense of self-worth, confidence, and impact on their everyday activities. In addition to causing discomfort and embarrassment, there are conditions that can threaten lives or have serious consequences.
Here’s some common conditions that can be treated by a Dermatologist:
Mole Checks & Mole Removals
Using the advanced and early detection of dermoscopy to check moles and screen for skin cancer, they can give patients instant peace of mind. Moles can then be removed under a local anaesthetic injection if required and address any concerns regarding skin cancer.
Skin Cancer
In the UK, 1 in 5 people contract skin cancer within their lifetime and 2,500 people lose their lives every year. Answering questions such as When is a Mole a Problem?, really can make a difference. Dermatologists can spot the signs early with skin cancer screening and monitoring, but it is a highly specialist area.
Wart, Skin Tag & Cyst Removal
Whilst these are common skin complaints, the impact of a wart or skin tag can be embarrassing and annoying. Removal treatment is safe, quick and effective, with the type of treatment depending on the size and location. Similarly, cysts, can be removed safely and quickly under a local anaesthetic injection.
Acne Treatment
Although acne is not harmful, it can be both embarrassing, uncomfortable and affect a patient’s confidence, whatever their age. Dermatologists can provide effective acne treatment with results seen in under 4 weeks and patients finding a whole new sense of self-assurance.
Hair Loss / Alopecia
Hair loss can be a traumatic experience for men and women and caused by several factors from diet (low iron), hormonal causes (thyroid or ovary problems) to autoimmune conditions such as lupus, even genetics can play a part. A Dermatologist can diagnose the cause of hair loss and the manage this with the correct treatment.
For further advice and information on any skin or hair problem contact Diamond Skin Care on 01603 819125 or email [email protected]. Our qualified Dermatologists provide detailed dermatology consultations at our Norfolk clinic in Norwich, and also our Essex clinic in Colchester.
