Top Questions About Your Skin To Ask Your Dermatologist

Top Questions About Your Skin To Ask Your Dermatologist

Navigating the wide world of skincare and understanding all the nuances of skin health is anything but straightforward. This is why it is common for many people to have an endless list of questions on how to do this or that to achieve their skin goals. Thankfully, getting the answers you need is just one consultation away with your dermatologist. So, the next time you visit your usual dermatology clinic, consider bringing up the following questions your dermatologist might have just been waiting for you to ask!

Is this particular procedure necessary?

Pre-preventative care questions such as the above are incredibly important before undergoing any skin treatment or procedure. Jumping the gun can be a big mistake, as it has led to many patients seeing their dermatologist only after they have had a botched procedure or a terrible experience.

For instance, when considering between filler or threads, both would be generally beneficial in most cases. However, by talking with your dermatologist first and asking them deeper questions like which of the two would better complement your features, you can make a smarter decision that leads you to your desired outcome.

Do any of my moles need to be removed?

While most moles are largely considered benign growths that can form anywhere on the body and predominantly pose no threat, they have a rare chance of becoming melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. As such, observe your moles and check whether they follow the ABCDE principle1:

  • Asymmetry – One half of the mole or spot looks different from the other half
  • Border – Uneven, scalloped, or poorly defined borders
  • Colour – Different colours from one area to the next
  • Diameter – The size of the mole is greater than five millimetres
  • Evolving – The spot changes in shape, size, and colour over time

As such, if you notice many or unusual lesions all over your body, get a mole check in Singapore as soon as possible. Regular monitoring lets you know if any changes in your lesions look ‘suspicious’ or require a skin biopsy to accurately determine whether you are dealing with a benign lesion or something more.

What is in my skincare products?

It pays to learn more about what goes into your favourite skincare products and be open to how they are affecting your skin2. Thus, whether you have a multi-step and comprehensive routine, or simply wash your face with soap and water, your skincare regimen should be as well-researched as possible.

For starters, you need to determine what is best for your skin type instead of chasing after what is currently trending in the skincare world. Many cosmetic products available today often make claims that are not necessarily tested or proven to be true.

Oftentimes, people stick to a popular product that is less effective rather than choose a solution that has more science behind it. While certain products are worth using just for the enjoyment and relaxation factor, going for the active ingredients that work for your needs is essential if you are serious about achieving your skin goals.

How can I better protect my skin?

Besides looking glowing and radiant, it is also important to be mindful of skin cancer protection and the risks of sun exposure. As you may already know, ageing is primarily caused by sun damage3, hence the importance of using sunscreen daily in preventing sun damage and skin cancer. That said, even sunblock has limitations, as being under the sun for too long will still cause sun damage and increase one’s risk of skin cancer.

Conclusion

Cultivating a skincare routine that works for you often takes trial and error, and it is natural to get a few things wrong. As such, you should always first consult with your dermatologist as there is no shortage of things they can help you with, be it aesthetic concerns or medical dermatology. While they will have many questions to ask you during your visits, it also falls on you to come ready with your own inquiries that can further your knowledge about your skin, desires, and concerns.

If you have any questions regarding your skin or have concerns that you want an expert’s opinion on, don’t hesitate to visit us at Angeline Yong Dermatology today. Consult with our renowned Dr Angeline Yong, who can provide expert guidance on all things skin health and all-around dermatological treatments specifically tailored to you.

References

What to look for: ABCDEs of melanoma. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/find/at-risk/abcdes

Know Your Skin Type Before Choosing Skin Care Products. Cleveland Clinic. (2019, July 8). Know Your Skin Type Before Choosing Skin Care Products

11 ways to reduce premature skin aging. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/reduce-premature-aging-skin