Far beyond aesthetics

In multiple cases, when thinking of Dermatology as a medical specialty, aesthetic procedures are usually involved, quite frequently, among the main topics. It is not wrong to correlate dermatology with aesthetics, but we must remember that working with aesthetics is not all dermatologists do. After all, the skin is the largest organ in the human body. The Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) defines Dermatology as the medical specialty that works in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases related to the skin, hair, mucous membranes, hair, and nails.

Inside Dermatology

The skin has very specific and essential functions, such as protection against external aggressions, tactile (sense of touch), regulation of external temperature (through sweat glands), and protection of internal organs. Routine care and attention are needed to keep it healthy, which includes regular visits to the dermatologist. Hair loss and brittle nails, for example, are two of the main indicators of low immunity and a sign that you are not getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs. Some other diagnoses can also be identified in these consultations. There are approximately about three thousand skin-related diseases that can affect children, adults, and the elderly. People of distinct ages and skin types can be more or less prone to show different skin problems, such as:

• Skin cancer
• Hair loss
• Acne
• Stretch marks
• "Allergies"
• Psoriasis
• Vitiligo

Dermatologists must have a broad knowledge of other medical specialties as well. Some signs and symptoms that affect the skin may indicate that other organs and systems are involved in the diagnosis. Generalized itching, for instance, can be indicative of kidney disorder. In addition to the above-mentioned qualifications, dermatologists can perform minor procedures, such as the surgical removal of signs and "warts". The dermatologist is, therefore, the specialist who is best qualified to listen to the patient's complaints related to the skin, make diagnoses, and seek the best solutions and treatments.

Taking care of health

It is highly advisable not to wait for a skin condition to worsen before seeking expert help. In the vast majority of cases, the sooner help is sought, the better the chances of successful treatment. An annual check-up with the dermatologist is recommended, essentially for people with very fair skin, hair, and light-colored eyes, as they are more inclined, for example, to have diseases caused by excessive sun exposure.

After reflecting on the importance of Dermatology, how about making an appointment with one of our specialists?