Skin is the human body's largest organ, and skin concerns cannot be solved through self-diagnosis on the internet - which most are guilty of doing. Neither can it be resolved by consulting with friends or family. There are specialists for this – and they are called dermatologists.

Dermatology is the study of the skin, hair, nails of the body. Dermatologists are qualified medical practitioners that help you identify the underlying cause of the skin concern and suggest the right treatment. They are also known as skin specialists, cosmetologists, or aestheticians.

There are different kinds of dermatological specialists - skilled in treating specific kinds of conditions. A cosmetic dermatologist focuses on the aesthetic appearance of the skin and treats skin concerns such as acne, scarring, dark spots, uneven skin tone, premature skin aging, etc. Meanwhile, a medical dermatologist specializes in the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, shingles, warts, moles, fungal infections, etc.

A surgical dermatologist specializes in skin cancer treatment and is trained to perform various surgeries, such as laser treatments, biopsies, liposuction, grafts, vein procedures, etc.

If you are unsure in which category your skin concerns fall in, book a preliminary consultation to determine what kind of dermatologist specialist you are in need of. This will help you to maximize your chances of getting the right treatment for your condition.

Home remedies and OTC drugs can lead to reactions that can worsen your skin condition. It’s important to visit the right dermatologist depending on your skin concerns and needs.

Sometimes skin conditions have underlying causes. The best dermatologist will help you understand the root cause of it and will customize a treatment based on your age, skin type, medical history and other factors.  

Apart from the study of specialty, when choosing a dermatologist – check the years of experience and expertise he/she has in treating skin conditions. Choose a dermatologist who is skilled in laser treatments and well-versed in other modern skin-care techniques.

Do look up patient reviews and testimonials. It helps in providing valuable insights into people's experiences with doctors’ efficiency, waiting times, staff friendliness, and the overall services offered. Look out for a dermatologist with sufficient experience handling a particular skin condition or procedure. Finally, it is important to search for highly-rated dermatologists who love what they do and keep patients' best interests above everything else.

Verify the dermatologist’s credentials by checking the certifications and awards on their website. The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL), is the largest representing the official body of Indian Dermatologists.

After you are done with your research and homework, book an appointment with your chosen dermatologist. This helps you receive an initial examination, understand your treatment options, and ask any questions you may have. Visiting a dermatologist should not be on your last list of priorities. When it’s time to treat your skin - your health is your responsibility and you owe it to yourself. Trust the experts at Cozmaa!