Being the body’s largest organ, the skin requires plenty of attention. While, in some cases, people may get overly alarmed when they spot a mole or have an unusual rash, it’s important to know that abnormalities should not be ignored. Sometimes they can be simple minor annoyances, but irritations can either be something serious or a symptom of something that is more severe. Having a dermatologist take a look at an abnormality will, at the very least, put your mind at ease that there’s nothing bad going on. Finding a dermatologist close by is easy nowadays using the Internet. You can do a search for a Myrtle Beach medical dermatology residents trust.

Here are a few conditions you might want to see a dermatologist for:

Acne is something common among teenagers. Having a few inflammatory bumps or small papules when young is not something you would be alarmed by. When things become a bit abnormal, and if you are not able to control acne with over-the-counter options, this might be a time to get an appointment. Adults can get acne as well, and there are plenty of factors at play there. Acne could be the result of using the wrong cleanser or an imbalance of something internal. By contacting a dermatologist, they’ll determine the proper treatment that will be most effective for your case.

Moles are normal most of the time and shouldn’t cause any alarm. But it’s important to know that they can be problematic. Moles pose a serious risk when it comes to melanoma. What this means is that you should contact a dermatologist if you notice a mole either changing its size, shape, or color. The same applies if you notice new moles appearing. A mole that changes its appearance or a growth on the body which bleeds, is itchy, and won’t heal, is a sign for concern.

Warts are the result of an infection of the skin’s top layer and are benign. Due to the fact that they are being caused by an infection, warts could be contagious. While they are generally harmless, you could check in with your dermatologist to ask for a treatment or to have them removed, especially if they hurt or you have a lot of them.

Rashes come in various forms and are caused by a number of things—from skin conditions, to sensitivity, to certain skin care products. They can range from a simple annoyance to something painful, warm to the touch, or itchy. One particular form of rash that deserves attention is the circular kind that has raised borders. This is due to the fact that it could be the sign of ringworm which is a contagious fungus.

Eczema is a condition which causes the skin to turn red and become itchy. It can start as a rash, but once scratched the skin becomes inflamed and turns more red. This generally takes place during infancy and childhood, but flare-ups can take place at any time. Things can be kept under control with over-the-counter treatments, but if you are struggling, a dermatologist could offer an alternative option.

Skin Lesions are parts of the skin which have abnormal growth compared to the skin around it. Generally speaking, moles, freckles, or other spots (such as sun spots or age spots) are not bad, but keeping an eye on them won’t hurt. Have the lesions checked out if they won’t heal, are uneven, and/or large (especially those that are on areas that get exposed to the sun).

Skin Discoloration can be the result of skin injuries, hormone changes, sun damage, too much melanin, or, in some cases, skin cancers. You should contact your dermatologist in case you are noticing blotches on your skin or new spots. Blotchy brown pigment that is persistent and favors the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip are something that should get checked out.

In some cases, people don’t go to the doctor unless symptoms start making them feel a certain way. It’s better to be on the safe side than to wait for things to turn bad. If you notice something out of the ordinary, don’t be afraid to contact your dermatologist and make sure that things are okay. In addition, seeing your dermatologist on a regular basis is also important when it comes to getting screened for skin cancer.