Internists are physicians who specialize in internal medicine, focusing on the diagnosis and care of adults. While their primary focus is on systems like the heart and lungs, their broad training gives them insights into general dermatology. An internist manages overall health by focusing on the connections between systemic issues and health conditions. They understand how medications, diet, and underlying diseases can affect the body or the skin. Here’s information on when to visit a specialist to help you find balance in your skin care routine:
When To Visit a Specialist?
A solid at-home routine of cleansing and moisturizing is fundamental for healthy skin, but persistent issues often require professional intervention. An internist provides primary care and acts as a first line of defense for any health or skin concerns. When skin concerns, like dermatitis or acne, aren’t improving with at-home skin care, contact an internist for an assessment. Some internal medicine specialists offer aesthetic treatments to address various skin conditions and concerns.
Identifying the specific type of dermatitis is the first step toward effective treatment, and a specialist can provide medical skincare advice. Dermatitis presents in several forms, each requiring different management strategies, such as:
- Atopic Dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a chronic, itchy inflammatory skin condition.
- Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to a specific substance, causing redness and irritation.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: This type primarily affects the scalp and face, causing scaly patches and red skin, and is often associated with dandruff.
What Does an Internist Offer?
An internist can offer a holistic view of your health to enhance your skincare regimen, and many practices offer specialized skin care services. Many skin and nail changes are not cosmetic but are indicators of nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances. An internist can order blood work to check for vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, or autoimmune markers to evaluate your symptoms. By addressing the root cause of concerns, the external symptoms often resolve more effectively than with topical treatments alone.
What Are Some Treatment Options?
Medical professionals can also integrate rejuvenation therapies into your existing skin care routine. These are not surgical procedures but non-invasive medical treatments that improve skin texture and tone. An internist might recommend specific medical-grade chemical peels or microneedling sessions that penetrate deeper than over-the-counter exfoliants. These treatments stimulate collagen production and increase cell turnover, allowing your at-home serums and moisturizers to absorb more effectively and deliver better results.
Some internal medicine practices are offering advanced skin care therapies, offering more dermatology services in one healthcare location. Light therapies and laser resurfacing treatments are targeted approaches to address various skin concerns. Light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to target skin concerns, like sun damage and scarring, without damaging other areas.
The Harmony XL Pro treatment is a versatile laser resurfacing option that targets vascular lesions, pigmentation issues, and uneven texture. Providers highly customize this procedure to each patient’s specific needs and goals, addressing concerns like sun damage and age spots. Most individuals require three to five sessions for lasting results. Recovery time is usually minimal, making it a viable option for those who desire improvements without surgery.
Improve Your Skin Care With a Professional
Integrating medical expertise into your skincare can help you stay proactive about your long-term skin health. By combining medical diagnostics with advanced treatments, you create a robust routine that addresses skin health from the inside out. Contact an internist today, as they can determine which treatments are most effective for your skin.