by Dr. Coco Toledo, MD, FPDS
Chairperson, PDS Committee on Publications and Library (2007-2008)

Why See Your Dermatologist? Let’s Clear Things Up…

Not a few have the notion that dermatologists treat only “cosmetic problems” like

pimples and warts or other “skin imperfections” like wrinkles and skin discolorations.

There is some confusion as to which medical specialist attends to more “serious” or “medical” skin diseases.

On the other hand, beauty gurus of all variations are consulted for skin, hair and nail concerns that could signify a more serious medical condition.

These are disturbing because heading straight to the dermatologist for an early assessment could spare the patient much distress.

Dermatologists manage the whole gamut of skin problems — ranging from common concerns such as skin care and maintenance, pigmentation and acne to many more less known and sometimes serious diseases.

So here are some basic tips about when to consult a dermatologist:

If it is about the skin, then ask your dermatologist.

Dermatologists see patients of all ages – from the newborn to the elderly.

There is the also the issue of location. For example: Regarding skin problems on the genitalia, people sometimes head for the gynecologist (for women) or urologist (for men) because of the area involved. If upon closer inspection, you realize the problem concerns the skin, the dermatologist could be the appropriate specialist for you.

Remember, as long as SKIN is involved…asking the skin doctor might really help clear things up in more ways than one.

Hair and nail problems? These fall under the dermatologist’s field of expertise.

No other medical specialist is better trained for diagnosing problems regarding hair and nails than the dermatologist. Hair and nails are products of skin; they are elements of skin.

Hair loss, hair excess, nail deformities and discolorations — these may be clues to more serious disease.

You may need more than just a change in the brand of shampoo or a visit to the nail salon. Have it checked by the dermatologist

Any persistent skin problem warrants a consultation with your dermatologist.

The dermatologist should be first to be consulted for skin problems…not the last!

For your health safety, don’t ask medical advice from unqualified persons.

The well-meaning drugstore salesperson, salon personnel, herbolaryo, friend or relative often proffer advice without medical basis.

The dermatologist is a skin specialist who can connect the dots between skin disease and other medical problems.

This is one great advantage the dermatologist has over the non-dermatologist.

The diagnosis may be far from what one might think the problem is.

That persistent “rash”, patch, or bump, could be a clue to other diseases a non-dermatologist is not trained to assess.

(A message of concern from the Philippine Dermatological Society. Skin health for every Filipino. Our Advocacy.)