What is Dermatology?
Dermatology is the medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions including hair and nails. Tri-City Medical Center works with dermatologists in the North San Diego County area to provide patients with the latest technology, treatment options, and diagnostic services for all skincare needs.
Dermatologists can also perform general cosmetic procedures for care of the skin or to enhance overall appearance. Patients come to our North San Diego dermatologists for a variety of conditions such as acne, dermatitis, eczema, hair loss, psoriasis, rosacea, vitiligo, genetic skin diseases, warts, and other common skin infections. Our dermatology specialists also treat skin cancer and provide the latest and up-to-date treatments to help you achieve healthy skin.
When to see a Dermatologist
Our skin is a precious organ. It covers our entire body and is designed to protect us from the outside world. While general skin care may seem like a simple process, oftentimes there are many steps and issues with underlying causes that can’t be solved with over-the-counter products. Taking care of your skin is important and challenging, but with the help of a dermatologist, you can ensure any issues are addressed immediately.
If you suffer from common, everyday issues such as acne, dandruff, oily or dry skin, red bumps or wrinkles, speaking with a dermatologist is often the best place to start. It is also important to speak with a dermatologist if you have any open sores or skin discolorations that appear, bleed on occasion, or even fail to heal. Issues with the skin, while they may seem insignificant, can lead to major problems if not properly addressed – that is why it is vital you speak with a dermatologist if you are in doubt.
Dermatology Skin Treatment
- Mohs Surgery – this minimally-invasive procedure treats dermatologic malignancies (skin cancer) and may allow for less damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. While the treatment can be done anywhere on the body, it is most often reserved for sensitive locations such as eyelids, lips, or other locations that have high risk of complications from traditional procedures.
- Phototherapy – used for treating psoriasis, dermatologists expose the patients’ skin to ultraviolet (UV) light in a controlled and consistent manner.
- Dermatopathology – a dermatologist will take a small biopsy of the skin tissue in question and have it tested, allowing for the best course of action and treatment options.