Professional Skin Care
By: Dr. Loretta Lanphier, ND, CN, HHP, CH
What is a Dermatologist?
Dermatology is by definition "the study, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails." A dermatologist is the title of a healthcare provider that specifically deals with issues of the skin.
Who Needs Professional Skin Care?
Care of the skin is a lifelong pursuit that involves people of all ages, from babies to senior citizens. In fact, it is estimated that about 15% of all doctor visits are related to care of the skin.
What Skin Disorders Require Professional Skin Care?
The skin is an amazing organ. It is the largest organ of the body, and plays a key role in defending and protecting the body against injury and disease. Yet, the skin itself is very prone to disease. The appearance and condition of your skin is highly visible, and is also an excellent indicator of your overall health and wellness. Certain skin conditions are often treated by dermatologists:
Cystic Acne is a common skin condition affecting individuals of all ages. Mild cases can usually be self-treated. However, people with moderate to severe cases should consult a dermatologist for advice to quicken healing and avoid scarring, which can be quite unsightly.
Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a condition that inflames the skin, resulting in reddened patches and/or dry, rough areas of the skin.
Skin Cancer is a serious, potentially fatal condition. The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma . Both of these are usually slow growing cancers that only rarely metastasize to other parts of the body. Melanoma , however, is a dangerous type of skin cancer that can aggressively and quickly spread within the body. Check with your dermatologist immediately if you have any reason to believe that you might have skin cancer.
Common warts are usually benign skin growths that are more unsightly than dangerous. However, warts can occasionally be associated with a serious condition such as skin cancer. If you have warts, it is a good idea to have a dermatologist examine them.
Fungal infections, can be treated by a dermatologist using various medications. Some of the most common types include ringworm and athletes foot.
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting millions of Americans. This inflammatory disease produces thick, red patches of skin covered by silvery scales. Inflamed areas are sometimes called "plaques," and they may be quite itchy or painful. They can potentially appear anywhere from head to toe, but are most commonly found on the scalp, face, palms, elbows, knees, legs, lower back, and soles of the feet.
Rosacea is another chronic skin disease that afflicts an estimated 14 million Americans. Rosacea is characterized by areas of red skin on the face, particularly the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. It can also affect the eyes. Rosacea causes tiny blood vessels that are close to the skin's surface to expand and become abnormally visible through the skin. Pimples are also a common symptom of rosacea.
Choosing a Dermatologist
The condition of your skin is crucial to your overall wellness, appearance, and self-image. Look for a dermatologist that you have a good rapport with, one that can answer your questions and help you to determine the best way to deal with your particular skin care issues. If you have a specific skin problem, look for a professional who is experienced and knowledgeable about your condition. You may also wish to ask who your dermatologist would refer you to if more serious issues would arise.
What to Expect at the Dermatologist's Office
Most skin care professionals will start with a complete picture of your medical and family history. During this interview, be sure to bring up any concerns you may have about your skin. The next step is usually a thorough medical exam. Your skin will be analyzed for any blemishes, sore spots, or other problem areas. If testing is needed to verify a diagnosis, he or she will order such tests. Finally the dermatologist will go over the options for treatment of your particular skin condition(s).
How Can A Professional Help Me?
Your dermatologist can provide a variety of useful services to you. He or she can teach you how to best care for your type of skin by developing a daily skin care regimen that will promote wellness. He or she can also diagnose any current skin diseases you might have, and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. If surgery is needed, many dermatologists can perform this as well. A good dermatologist is a key member of your skin management team.
About the Author
Loretta Lanphier, ND, CN, HHP, CH is a Doctor of Naturopath, Clinical Nutritionist, Holistic Health Practitioner and Clinical Herbalist in Houston, TX and Founder / CEO of Oasis Advanced Wellness. Under her leadership, OAW is known and respected as one of the leading companies in providing safe, clean and hi-tech natural health and wellness solutions for whole body wellness. Because of the need for high-end natural and organic skin care products, Dr. Lanphier has developed Lanique Botanicals, an all-natural skin care line which promotes natural health and anti-aging solutions for the skin. All Lanique Botanicals and OAW developed products are free of toxic ingredients, heavy metals, irradiation, excipients and preservatives and are certified organic, organic, wild crafted or of the highest purity and quality that we can obtain while still providing the utmost degree of active ingredients. All product batches are laboratory tested to ensure that you are getting exactly what the label states. We will never knowingly compromise health in order to provide a cheaper product or to get a product out quickly. Lanphier is Editor and contributor to the worldwide Free E-newsletter Advanced Health & Wellness. Please visit us at Oasis Advanced Wellness, the PMS-Progesterone-Menopause Resource Center, the Acne Resource Center, the Glyconutrient Resource Center, the Allergy-Asthma-Sinus Relief Resource Center and www.oasisserene.com
