If you haven’t had a skin exam in a while, now is the perfect time to book an appointment!

With winter rolling in, many people with sensitive skin are going to experience problems such as rosacea, psoriasis, and dermatitis, among others. Rather than waiting for the red rashes and itchiness to rear their ugly head, it’s best to make some preparations.

Why You Need a Skin Examination

A comprehensive skin examination is fundamentally different from the average visit to the dermatologist.

In the initial visit, your doctor will identify a specific skin issue and might give you a prescription for treatment. A skin examination, on the other hand, involves checking your whole body for any signs of skin irritation, inflammation, and allergies.

Your doctor will check for any suspicious growths or changes, moles that may have changed in size, color, and shape, and more. If needed, they’ll diagnose an underlying condition, for which you’ll be treated accordingly.

A Pre-Examination Prep List

Preparing for Your Appointment

Keep in mind that the dermatologist will be checking everything, from your scalp, all the way to the soles of your feet. This includes your nails, armpits, buttocks, and genitals (though this can be skipped if requested).

So before your appointment, ensure basic hygiene—wash your hair and body so you’re clean. If you’re wearing nail polish, remove it and moisturize your nails. If you wear makeup, bring some along with you for a post-appointment touch-up.

You will be required to remove your clothing during the appointment, so it’s best to bring a robe with you (especially if you have sensitive skin). Otherwise, you will be provided with one.

Also, if you have any questions, be sure to write them down and ask about your concerns when you come for your visit. There’s no such thing as a dumb question—not when your health is at stake.

What to Expect

Areas that are exposed to the sun will be checked first for any suspicious growths and marks.

If your doctor suspects something, they will require you to come back for a further checkup and diagnosis. They’ll also check the back of your hands, your face, and your forearms for any rough papules.

Moles that are uneven or asymmetrical in nature will also be noted. If you see any dark streaks under your nails or a lesion, your dermatologist will add that to their post-check up list as well.

Once that’s done, your doctor will either write a prescription for treatment; or, if you have a complicated medical history, they’ll ask you to come back for a second appointment so they can provide you with the right diagnosis.

Got Any More Questions?

A skin examination is the best time to bring up any queries you may have about your skin health. So don’t be shy!

Book an appointment at Southern Dermatology and speak to our professionals about any skin rejuvenation treatments in Lawrenceville, GA, that you think will help. Give your skin the medical attention it needs!