How to Choose the Best Dermatologist for You
Whether or not people think it is true, everyone can benefit from seeking the professional guidance of a licensed dermatologist. Teens and adults experience various skin diseases, and many battle things like acne and eczema for years without knowing there are effective and affordable solutions available. Seeking the expertise of a reputable dermatologist can improve acne and the skin’s appearance and provide preventative skin cancer screenings.
Sadly, many opt out of dermatology care and accept a skin condition that may be easily managed or believe they get what they need over the counter. However, the personal decision to find a reputable professional does not have to be complicated and using a few basic guidelines can help direct individuals to the best dermatologist for the first time.
Affordable Dermatology Care
Dermatologists are finding ways to make skincare more accessible than ever. Whether an individual goes directly to a dermatologist or starts with an approved list from their primary care doctor, dermatology offices like Buckhead Dermatology of Atlanta work with multiple insurance carriers to help clients get the best skincare at affordable prices. Understanding what is covered and what will be out-of-pocket expense significantly impacts people’s decision to visit a dermatologist.
Locating a dermatologist who is accepting new patients, knowing they meet the credentials and experience you seek, is the first step. Contact the office and make an appointment to meet and consult with the dermatologist. Connecting with the person you choose is essential because skincare is personal, and being comfortable asking questions and asking for help is an integral part of a successful journey to beautiful skin! If you prefer to see a male or female dermatologist, and if they specialize in an area in which you have concerns, this should all be considered when making that first appointment.
Experience Matters
Every person has their own unique skincare concerns. Skin disease affects everyone differently, and going to someone with experience in the area where you have concerns is important when choosing a dermatologist. If your concerns are related to mole changes and skin cancer, find a dermatologist with experience and reputation in skin cancer screenings and treatment. If you have dark skin, it is better to work with a dermatologist specializing in darker skin tones. It is always recommended to ask the dermatologist during your visit how many similar conditions they have treated and what the complications were – remember, you interview them to see if they fit what you want!
Read the Reviews
Today, just about every opinion is out there for businesses, and dermatology offices are no exception. Reading the experiences of others can be incredibly insightful and help narrow down the choices. If a review states that the dermatologist was rushed and concerns weren’t addressed, it is best to keep looking. Other helpful feedback when looking for a dermatologist is how long it took to get an appointment and how long the wait was in the office. Staff friendliness is also a consideration, especially for a new patient. No individual wants to feel like just a number or that they are not valued, or concerns heard and addressed. Often, the reviews of clients can help decide who to see.
Reasons to Seek Dermatology Care
The following skincare concerns can be addressed by visiting a licensed and reputable dermatologist:
- Acne
- Signs of Aging
- Eczema
- Hair Loss and Scalp Concerns
- Melasma
- Moles
- Nail Concerns
- Psoriasis
- Rashes
- Rosacea
- Scarring
- Skin Cancer
- Vitiligo
Visiting a dermatologist provides a better understanding of what is happening with our skin, hair, and nails. Everyone wants to look and feel their best, and a licensed and reputable professional will diagnose and recommend products that individuals are not able to get over the counter. Although eczema, acne, and skin cancer are the most common reasons people seek the care of a dermatologist, their training is extensive and covers all things related to the hair, nails, and skin.
The peace of mind that comes from a visit with a trained and skilled dermatologist gives options for improved skin appearance and may be integral in identifying potential health concerns that are triggering and affecting the skin’s health. Many skin diseases are hereditary or environmental, but the extensive education and training of the best dermatologists allow them to bring concerns into the light and find affordable solutions. Finding the right dermatologist makes a world of difference, so taking the time to get to know them through research and referrals and understanding their style through client reviews takes the guesswork out of the equation. Everyone deserves to feel good in their skin, so if you are considering seeking a dermatologist and live in the Atlanta area, contact Buckhead Dermatology for an appointment. Dr. Sherrie Straughn accepts new patients, welcomes questions, has an excellent bedside manner, and offers solutions to help every client achieve their desired results and address skincare concerns.