A dermatologist is a physician who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails. Dermatologists care for patients of all ages and may use medications, office procedures, surgery, phototherapy and cosmetic treatments depending on the condition.
What does a dermatologist treat?
Dermatologists evaluate thousands of conditions involving the skin, hair and nails. Common reasons for a visit include acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, rashes, itching, infections, warts, hair loss, nail disorders, pigment changes and concerns about skin cancer.
What procedures can dermatologists perform?
- Cryotherapy to freeze selected benign or precancerous growths and some warts.
- Skin biopsies to help diagnose rashes, growths and possible skin cancers.
- Excision and other surgical procedures to remove selected lesions and skin cancers.
- Mole removal when clinically appropriate.
- Abscess drainage for selected infected or inflamed collections.
- Phototherapy for conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and vitiligo when appropriate.
- Cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels, injectables and laser or energy-based treatments.
When should I make an appointment?
Consider an evaluation for a new, changing, painful, bleeding or persistent skin growth; a mole that changes in size, shape or color; severe or persistent acne; a rash that is not improving; chronic itching; hair or nail changes; recurrent infections; or a skin condition that is affecting your comfort or quality of life.
A dermatologist can also perform a full-body skin examination or evaluate one specific spot. Learn more about what happens during a skin exam and explore our medical dermatology care.
What should I expect at a dermatology visit?
Your visit usually begins with a review of the concern, symptoms, medications and relevant history, followed by an examination of the affected skin, hair or nails. Depending on what is found, the next step may be reassurance, medication, testing, a procedure or follow-up monitoring.
If you are in Long Island or Queens, Borealis Dermatology offers medical, surgical and procedural, cosmetic, pediatric and urgent skin care. Book Appointment.