Frequently Asked Questions

Early signs can include new growths, sores that don’t heal, or changes in existing moles such as irregular edges, uneven colour, increase in size, or bleeding.

Regular self-examinations using the ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving) can help identify potential skin cancer lesions. If you notice any irregularities, consult a healthcare provider.

Risk factors can range from excessive sun exposure and use of tanning beds to having numerous moles or freckles, a family history of skin cancer, a history of severe sunburns, fair skin, light hair, and certain types and a number of atypical moles.

Although not all risk can be eliminated, you can significantly reduce your risk by limiting sun exposure, avoiding tanning beds, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing when outdoors, and conducting regular self-examinations and professional skin exams.

The three most common types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, each possessing unique characteristics and varying degrees of severity.

Treatment options vary depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.

Yes, there is a risk of recurrence, which is why regular follow-up appointments and skin examinations are crucial after treatment.

Yes, when detected and treated early, the survival rate for melanoma is quite high.

Yes, a history of severe sunburns, particularly in childhood, can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

Yes, the sun’s rays are most harmful between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

A good skincare routine generally includes cleansing, toning, applying serum, moisturising, and using sunscreen. The specific products and routine can vary based on your skin type and concerns.

Most dermatologists recommend cleansing your skin twice a day – once in the morning and once at night.

Toners help remove any remaining traces of dirt or makeup after cleansing, balance skin’s pH, and can also provide hydration and other benefits depending on their ingredients.

Moisturisers help to keep the skin hydrated, making it appear plumper and more youthful. They also form a protective barrier to prevent water loss from the skin’s surface.

Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage, premature ageing, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and can improve skin’s texture and appearance. It can also help skincare products penetrate better.

Skin types are generally categorised as normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Your skin type can be determined by its usual feel and appearance, and how it reacts to different products or environments.

Diet can significantly impact skin health. Foods high in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, can help protect skin, while a diet high in sugars or fats can promote skin inflammation and ageing.

It can be beneficial to adjust your skincare routine with the seasons. For example, you might need a heavier moisturiser in the winter months when the air is drier, and a lighter one in the summer.

Professional treatments can address specific skin concerns, such as deep cleansing, hydrating, or exfoliating the skin, and can often provide more dramatic results than at-home care.

Symptoms can range from redness, itching, and swelling, to changes in skin colour or texture, rashes, blisters, and more.

If you notice any changes in your skin, such as persistent itching, redness, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

Triggers can vary greatly and may include allergens, irritants, genetic factors, immune system problems, and environmental factors.

Prevention strategies can depend on the specific condition. However, general good skin care practices include maintaining a healthy diet, keeping your skin clean and moisturised, and avoiding known irritants.

Some skin conditions, like fungal infections or impetigo, can be contagious. However, many are not, such as psoriasis or eczema.

Stress can’t directly cause a skin condition, but it can exacerbate existing conditions or trigger outbreaks in certain cases, like with psoriasis or acne.

The best treatment depends on the specific condition and its severity. Treatment options can include topical creams or ointments, oral medication, lifestyle changes, or in more severe cases, surgical procedures.

Eczema is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the skin. It can be treated with topical steroids, moisturisers, avoiding triggers, and in severe cases, systemic medications.

Both conditions cause red, inflamed skin, but psoriasis often appears as silvery scales on raised patches of skin, while eczema can cause dry, itchy patches and sometimes blisters.

Some common skin conditions include acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, vitiligo, and skin cancer.

Common treatment options can include topical treatments (creams, gels, lotions), oral medications (pills, liquids), injections, phototherapy, and in severe cases, surgical procedures.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination of the skin, a review of medical history, and may also include skin tests (biopsies, scrapings) or allergy tests.

Phototherapy, or light therapy, uses ultraviolet light to reduce symptoms of certain skin conditions, like psoriasis or eczema, by slowing the growth of affected skin cells.

Some people find relief with natural remedies, like aloe vera for minor burns or psoriasis, tea tree oil for acne, or oatmeal baths for eczema. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

Certain foods may exacerbate or alleviate certain skin conditions. For instance, a diet low in sugar and dairy may help improve acne, while fatty fish and flaxseeds may benefit those with psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

A skin biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. It’s often used to diagnose skin cancer or other skin disorders.

Laser therapy uses focused light to treat various skin conditions. It can be used for removing benign skin growths, improving the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and age spots, and even treating precancerous skin lesions.

Not always. Some skin conditions, like mild eczema or acne, can be managed with proper skincare routines and lifestyle modifications, although medication can be necessary for more severe cases.

Side effects can include skin thinning, discoloration, stretch marks, and acne. These are more common with long-term use.

Dermatologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat skin diseases and can prescribe medications. Estheticians are skincare specialists who provide treatments to improve skin’s appearance, like facials or chemical peels, but can’t diagnose skin conditions or prescribe medication.