More Than Skin Deep: Everything You Need to Know About Dermatology

Sep 27, 2018 8:13:19 AM / by Voyage Healthcare Team posted in Health Tips

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? Taking care of this crucial organ is something you'll want to invest in early-on in life. Get to know all about dermatology, the types of diseases and treatments, tips for prevention, and when to visit a specialist.

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What to Know about Dermatology

Dermatology is a medical field that specializes in skin, hair, and nails. While your skin plays such an incredible role for your body, there is more than meets the eye to the skin that you’re in! Here are five interesting facts when it comes to dermatology:

5 facts about Dermatology:

  1. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recently released the Burden of Skin Disease report, which analyzed data collected over 24 skin disease categories since 2013. The AAD states, “in 2013, one American in four sought treatment for at least one skin ailment, and the average person was treated for 1.6 skin diseases.”
  2. There are four different branches of Dermatology: Medical, Cosmetic, Surgical, and Dermatopathology. 
  3. Almost half of all Americans over the age of 65 have experienced a skin disease. That makes 2.2 skin diseases on average, per person.
  4. The exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the use of indoor tanning beds is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer.
  5. The AAD notes in their study that, “when dermatologists work with other physicians—whether primary care physicians, pediatricians, or other specialists—benefits can include improved patient outcomes and lowered health care costs.”

Types of Skin Disease

Diseases of the skin are often severe and may lead to fatality. Melanoma is one of the most common forms of cancer that contributes to morbidity. There are also lesser forms of skin diseases that many people deal with on a day-to-day basis, like acne or rosacea. Learn more about all the different types of skin diseases on the AAD’s siteTo get you started on your skincare journey, your primary care doctor can help! 

7 Skincare Tips 

  • Don't forget about your neck: Even in your 20s, you should be focusing on bringing your skincare regimen down to your neck.
  • Increase circulation: An increase in circulation will help the blood flow to your largest organ. Regular exercise will help with blood flow.
  • Invest in Moisturizer: Take advantage of a good moisturizer. Moisturizing daily is essential to maintaining healthy skin, and it may be worth investing in something more expensive. 
  • Remove Makeup: Make sure you’re removing your makeup nightly if you wear it! By letting your skin breathe and ensuring you have a makeup-free face at night, you can reduce signs of aging and wrinkles.
  • Eat Healthy: It’s a given that diet and health go hand-in-hand, but the same goes for your skin. Eating foods that are high in sugars and fats lead to more acne or other skin problems.
  • Get a Full-body Exam: Most people should have their first full-body skin exam by 30 years old. Full-body exams are an excellent way to monitor your skin throughout the years. Your primary care doctor is a great place to start with your dermatology questions and can monitor your moles to see if there are worrisome changes. 
  • Use Sunscreen: Always use sunscreen if you’re going to be spending the day outdoors. Even under cloudy skies, ultraviolet rays are harmful to your skin.

Do You Have Questions About Your Skin?

Do you have questions you’d like to ask our Voyage Healthcare providers about skincare? Check out our free downloadable guide below or request an appointment with one of our family medicine providers!

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Voyage Healthcare Team

Written by Voyage Healthcare Team

Voyage Healthcare is an independently owned, multi-specialty healthcare clinic — guided by the doctors who care for families in the northwest metro area of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

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