Before assessing whether a situation calls for a dermatologist, it is important to understand what dermatology is: At its core, dermatology refers to the specialty of medicine concerned with diagnosing and treating issues associated with the skin, hair, and nails, thus a physician practicing dermatology is a dermatologist. With that known, it is appropriate to see a dermatologist when any concerns are raised regarding the hair, skin, or nails. From an urgency standpoint, irregularities with the skin, specifically if one has unexplained rashes, bumps, pigmentation, or itchiness, are all scenarios in which it is advised to seek help from a dermatologist as soon as possible. Of course, those looking for help to manage anything from dry, damaged, or acne prone skin, to hair loss, to even nail infections are also people who would benefit from seeing a dermatologist. It is highly recommended people see a dermatologist if they are experiencing issues within their scope of practice as early diagnosis and treatment will accelerate the return to one’s normal lifestyle.

A common question people ask regarding dermatology is if there is a difference between a dermatologist and a skin doctor. The prefix ‘derma’ translates to ‘skin-relating’, which is fitting, as certified medical doctors who specialize in treatment of the skin, hair, and nails are known as dermatologists. Concerning skin specifically, dermatologists are still tasked with treating an incredibly wide range of conditions ranging from dry skin, to cancers. It should also be noted that some people may confuse estheticians with dermatologists, however, they are not the same thing. Estheticians specifically are more concerned about the appearance of skin, whereas dermatologists ensure the health of skin, however, it is not uncommon for dermatologists to decide to do work in the aesthetics business while combining their knowledge of medicine. In the United States, dermatologists go through many years of study, beginning in college, to then go to medical school to obtain either their M.D. or D.O., then going through residency. While dermatologists receive training for the entire scope of conditions associated within their field, some may choose to specialize even further, which may specifically involve skin conditions, especially if involved with research. In short, dermatologists do in fact diagnose, treat, and study the skin, however, it is generally not their only responsibility and scope of practice as medical doctors.

The skin is one area that dermatologists study tremendously, and as such, they are able to apply their knowledge to directly impact skin health for their patients. For one, they are able to appropriately diagnose and treat skin conditions, which is especially helpful as many skin conditions, such as rashes, bumps, moles, etc. can be very difficult to interpret without knowing what to look for. Going a step further, dermatologists are also able to provide non-invasive or minimally-invasive procedures to help treat, and in some instances diagnose, conditions. As a final way in which dermatologists are able to benefit a patient’s skin health, they are able to answer patient questions regarding the best options for their specific conditions or issues, or in other words, provide more personalized care. Finding the best type of lotion for your skin, or what steps to take to combat acne are just two examples of questions dermatologists are frequently tasked with answering. Again, it is highly advised to meet with a dermatologist when skin issues are involved as their expertise can help drastically improve the condition and health of your skin.

At Cosmopolitan Dermatology, we provide a number of medical services, as well as cosmetic services. Some common medical conditions we treat are Eczema and rashes, fungal infections, acne, hair loss, and skin discoloration. On the cosmetic side, we offer procedures such as laser hair removal, botox, fillers, Morpheus8, PRP, and microneedling. These are a select few of the medical conditions and cosmetic options we have to offer and more information can be found on our website. Alternatively, you are welcome to contact us for further information and even schedule an appointment online.
 
At Cosmopolitan Dermatology, our team of skilled dermatologists addresses both complicated and unusual skin illnesses. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 3461 Warrensville Center Rd, Suite #100, Shaker Heights, OH 44122. We serve patients from Shaker Heights OH, Cleveland OH, Richmond Heights OH, Hunting Valley OH, Mayfield OH, Brooklyn Heights OH, Lyndhurst OH, and surrounding areas.