5 Questions You Should Ask Your Dermatologist

It’s always best to be prepared before heading into the doctor’s office. Dermatologists appointments often come with high price tags, and the prescriptions they dole out aren’t much cheaper. The way to get the most out of your consultation and avoid coming back, again and again, is to ask the right questions. This way you’ll have most of the information you need to battle any general skin flare-ups. Everyone should see a dermatologist at least once but for most of us, it just isn’t feasible to run up bills with multiple treatments, ointments and repeat appointments. It’s important to leave with more than just prescriptions — leave with better knowledge about your skin specifically. This way you’ll be better equipped to take care of it at all times! Make the most of your visit by knowing the right questions to ask. Here are a few basic ones to get you started.

What Is My Skin Type?

This is the first question you should ask. While you may already have a decent idea about what your skin type is, it’s better to know what the expert thinks. Oftentimes our foreheads can be oily regions and our are cheeks dry areas. Thinking your entire face functions the same way is too general and applying the same treatment everywhere probably causes sporadic breakouts. Knowing exactly what your skin type is will help clarify which products to use, and save you money in the long term. 

What Is The Best Moisturiser For My Skin?

You should be using a moisturiser no matter what your skin type is. Make sure you’re using the right one, though. Over the counter moisturisers can be loaded with harsh chemicals and scents. The same moisturiser that your friend uses on her greasy skin might not suit your greasy and sensitive skin — skincare is a nuanced matter, and different for each individual. Ask your doctor what the best brands are in their opinion, and which ones you should be looking out for.

What Is Causing My Acne?

Acne can be a result of a number of things: an unhealthy diet, stress, hormonal changes, or just plain old bad genes. It really is the mother of all evil. Acne can also be traced to different causes depending on which region of your face you get it most often, so ask your dermatologist to examine your face and give you their prognosis. Once you find out the root cause you’ll be able to treat it properly without all that trial and error which often makes it worse. 

How Often Should I Exfoliate? 

Skincare can be an addictive game. Face washes, cleansers, toners, face masks, and scrubs can all form a part of your nightly regimen but more often than not instead of helping, it’s just rubbing your skin raw. A less is more philosophy will get you further here. Much like moisturising, exfoliating is a very important step for every skin type. It gets rid of dead skin cells and gives your pores a super deep cleanse. Certain exfoliants are more aggressive than others, though, and certain skin types require the use of exfoliants more than others. Ask your dermatologist how often you should exfoliate, and what ingredients might benefit your skin.  

Is My Diet Affecting My Skin?

Our skin mirrors what we put into it. Ever notice how it’s much clearer and softer when you’ve been drinking more water? Treatments do work, but sometimes it’s as simple as minor changes in your diet. Speak to your dermatologist and find out which foods are the best for your skin, and which you should completely avoid.