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FAQs

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Dermatology Services FAQs:
Your Questions, Answered

SkinMD has the answers to the dermatology questions you’ve been searching for. Our comprehensive FAQ page covers several topics, from common skin conditions to treatment options and preventative care.

Whether you’re dealing with persistent acne, found a suspicious spot, or simply want to improve your skin’s health, we have the information you need. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and resources to make the best decision for your skin. Explore our FAQs below and if you can’t find the answer to your specific question, reach out to our dermatology practice today.

Your Questions Answered

General Dermatology & Skin Care Questions

Medical dermatology focuses on diagnosing and treating skin diseases and conditions, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer. Cosmetic dermatology focuses on enhancing the appearance of the skin through procedures like Botox®, fillers, microneedling, and facials.

At SkinMD, our providers are experts in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, allowing us to provide comprehensive care for our patients.

Our dermatologists will carefully examine your skin and may perform tests to determine the underlying cause of your skin condition. Based on the diagnosis, we will recommend a personalized treatment plan that may include medications, topical creams, or lifestyle changes.

For example, to treat acne, we may prescribe medications or perform procedures like chemical peels. Once the medical aspects of acne treatment are complete, you may benefit from a follow-up consultation with our aesthetician. They can provide a personalized plan to help reduce the appearance of acne scars and promote healthier-looking skin.

During a skin cancer screening, we’ll thoroughly examine your entire body, including your scalp, ears, and nails. We’ll look for any suspicious moles, lesions, or other changes in your skin. If we identify any concerning areas, we may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
We recommend having a full-body skin exam at least once a year or more frequently if you have a history of skin cancer or other risk factors. Regular screenings can help detect skin cancer early when it is most treatable.
Melanoma can often appear as an asymmetrical, border irregular, multicolored, diameter greater than 6mm, and evolving mole. Other signs of skin cancer may include unusual or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, and patches of scaly, discolored skin.
To help prevent skin conditions from worsening, it is important to follow your dermatologist’s recommendations, avoid irritants and allergens, and practice good skin care habits. These may include using gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

Telemedicine & Over-the-Counter Products

Yes, we do offer telemedicine consultations for many dermatology concerns. This can be a convenient option for patients who are unable to visit our office in person.

However, please note that some conditions may require an in-person examination.

We recommend using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers that are appropriate for your skin type. It is also important to wear sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.

Pediatric Dermatology

Our pediatric dermatologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating skin conditions related to allergies in children. We may recommend allergy testing to identify specific allergens and develop a management plan that may include avoiding triggers, medications, or topical treatments.
If your child’s rash persists despite home remedies or over-the-counter treatments, it is important to consult with a dermatologist. We can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Over-the-counter acne treatments can be effective for mild acne in children, but it is important to consult with our team before using them. Our pediatric dermatologist can recommend appropriate products and dosage based on your child’s age and skin condition.
To protect your child’s skin from the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors. Dress your child in protective clothing, such as long sleeves and a hat, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours.

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is considered one of the most effective treatments for skin cancer, especially for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It involves removing the cancerous tissue layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope, and repeating the process until clear margins are achieved.

This technique minimizes the risk of recurrence and allows for the preservation of healthy tissue.

During a Mohs surgery procedure, you will be numbed with a local anesthetic. The surgeon will carefully remove layers of tissue and examine them under a microscope until clear margins are achieved.

After the procedure, your wound will be sutured or left open to heal on its own.

Recovery time from Mohs surgery varies depending on the size and location of the wound. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but it may take several weeks for the wound to fully heal.
Mohs surgery is generally a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. However, potential risks may include bleeding, infection, scarring, and nerve damage. These risks are minimized when the procedure is performed by a skilled surgeon.

Schedule a Dermatology Appointment Today

Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and SkinMD is here to help you protect it. Our dermatologists offer personalized care for a wide range of skin conditions and concerns. With three convenient locations in Chicago, Orland Park, and Evergreen Park, we’re committed to providing exceptional dermatological services to patients of all ages.

If you have questions that aren’t answered here, run them by us personally.  Our doctors and aestheticians will be with you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment. You can contact us online or give us a call at 708-636-3767. If you have questions related to a certain condition or ailment, make sure to check out our individual service pages for medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, and med spa services.