A board-certified Dermatologist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) that has completed 4 years of medical school as well as 1 year of internship and a minimum of 3 years of dermatology residency. They are the experts in over 3,000 conditions affecting hair, skin, and nails. They can see patients of all ages and are able to address medical, surgical, and cosmetic concerns.

Most people see a Dermatologist once yearly for an overall skin check. If there is a personal or family history of skin cancers, abnormal moles, or other conditions such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis, the frequency of visits can be increased.

Dermatologists recommend performing a once-monthly self-skin examination to check for new or changing spots. You should examine all aspects of your skin, using mirrors or a partner as needed. Do not forget to try to examine your scalp, look between fingers and toes, check the bottoms of your feet, and examine the groin area. Please have any new or changing lesions examined by a Dermatologist to determine if any treatments are needed.

UV damage is the biggest skin aging culprit. Daily sun protection measures (even in the winter) is the best preventative step. Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, other drugs, staying hydrated, and eating a well-balanced diet can all have positive anti-aging effects as well.

Topical vitamin A products (retinols, retinoids) are the overall most effective topicals for addressing skin aging concerns such as loss of elasticity, fine lines, skin texture changes, and dyspigmentation. There are various over-the-counter products and prescription products that contain these active ingredients. People with very sensitive skin can sometimes have a more difficult time tolerating these topicals as they can be irritating to the skin.

There are many causes of hair loss. Some causes are permanent, others are reversible if treated early on, others are temporary. A Dermatologist can help determine the cause of the hair loss and possible treatment options to hopefully minimize continued hair loss and possibly regrow lost hair.

On occasion blood test results can help reveal the cause of hair loss. Certain health conditions such as thyroid disorders, anemia, or autoimmune conditions such as lupus can show on blood tests and give clues as to the cause of hair loss. Other causes of hair loss, even hormonal hair loss, do not necessarily show obvious blood work changes.Your Dermatologist can help determine if blood work would be helpful in each individual situation.

Even without a family history of hair loss, there can be a genetic or hormonal component. In general, male-pattern hair loss can be seen in 2/3 of adult men and almost ¼ of adult women. There are also many other possible causes of hair loss besides hormonal or genetic variants of hair loss. A board-certified dermatologist can help determine the underlying causes of hair loss and target appropriate treatments based on these causes.

Minimizing damage to hair can help ensure that the hair you do have remains healthy. It is best to avoid harsh styling practices such as high-heat tools (blow dryers, flat irons),minimizing chemical treatments such as hair color, straighteners, or relaxers, and avoiding chronic uses of tight hair styles such as braids and ponytails. Avoiding overuse of drying or stripping shampoos can also help to minimize hair fragility and breakage.

There are many good, natural-looking hair alternatives. Hair extensions, partial hair pieces, and wigs are all good options. There are fullness enhancing treatments such as hair fiber powders or sprays. Keep in mind that cutting your hair will not worsen hair loss.