You should see a dermatologist if you need help understanding your skin or if you see something on your skin that is new or changing. If you have a mole or patch of skin that has changed, stubborn acne, scarring, hair loss, skin irritation, itchy hives/rashes, nail disorders, a sore that won’t heal, etc.- we recommend making an appointment.
If you have light skin, red hair, frequent blistering sunburns or a family history of skin cancer- we recommend a full body skin exam.
You should always see a dermatologist if you see something new on your skin or if you have any questions regarding dermatological care.
You can expect to answer questions about your medical history and to have your skin examined. Knowing your updated list of medications and your skin care regimen can be helpful. Show pictures if necessary. Our dermatology team wants you to feel comfortable and to provide you with answers to any of your questions.
When it comes to skin cancer, early detection is everything. Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer, making it important to catch skin abnormalities early. When self-examining, use the ABCDE system to help you remember the symptoms of melanoma:
A: Asymmetry in shape of the mole.
B: Borders that are irregular.
C: Colors (multiple).
D: Diameter larger than six millimeters (about ¼ of an inch).
E: Evolving or changing in appearance over time.
Yes. You should make sure your skin is examined before a tattoo, laser treatment, etc. if you have any skin conditions or if you have a history of skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend that you leave skin with moles free of ink.
We all have a natural oil coating over our skin, produced by the skin oil glands. If this oil is removed, then the skin becomes dry, leading to cracking and inflammation. Dry skin is usually a long-term, recurring problem, especially in the winter.
Some of the causes of dry skin include long, hot baths or showers, use of harsh soaps and cold weather.
Here are a few tips on preventing or repairing dry skin:
- When bathing, do not use harsh soap. Soap can irritate and dry the skin. When bathing, limit the use of soap to your face, armpits, pubic area and feet.
- Use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water dries the skin. Limit bath time to 5-10 minutes.
- When toweling dry, don’t rub. Blot the skin so there is still some water left on the skin.
- If a medication has been prescribed, apply it exactly as your provider prescribed. These medications have unwanted side effects if used improperly. More is not better.
- It is necessary to keep the skin lubricated. This layer serves to seal in the moisture (and medication if prescribed). There are several good skin moisturizers, including Eucerin, Cetaphil Cream, etc. Plain Vaseline is one of the best and cheapest skin lubricants. With these products, more is better. Use moisturizers several times a day.
Every person is different, but Dr. Mallory Hurst generally recommends the following:
Sensitive Skin/Face
- Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30 or 50+
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid
- Blue Lizard Sensitive SPF 30+
- EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (acne/rosacea skin)
- EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41 (sensitive skin)
- EltaMD UV Facial SPF 30+ (dry skin)
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen
- Neutrogena Healthy Defense Liquid Moisturizer with Sunscreen
- Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55 (acne)
- CoTZ Sensitive SPF 40 or CoTZ Facial SPF 40
Body
- Neutrogena, CeraVe, Cetaphil, Vanicream, La Roche Posay Anthelios, Blue Lizard or EltaMD Sunscreens labeled Broad Spectrum with an SPF 30 or higher.
Children > 6 months old
- Blue Lizard (baby, sensitive or regular skin)
- Aveeno Baby SPF 55
- Neutrogena Pure & Baby SPF 60
- Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 spray
