There are two kinds of skin doctors: general and cosmetic, and choosing the right derm is crucial to addressing your concerns. Here’s how to find one.

• Know the types. A general dermatologist will treat rashes, acne, and rosacea; they do skin exams to check for questionable moles; and they can help with issues such as thinning hair. They are a good starting place for anti-aging prescriptions such as Retin-A or hydroquinone for wrinkles and brown spots. Deeply etched wrinkles, scars, or persistent discoloration-anything that requires a peel, injection, or laser-are best treated by a cosmetic dermatologist.
• Check their bios. Doctors usually have one on their practice’s website. Look for board certification from the American Academy of Dermatology—you don’t want to get Botox from someone certified as an OB-GYN. A website is also a good place to see whether the doctor’s focus is general or cosmetic and if he/she specializes further. Someone who names laser treatments, or Botox and fillers, will be more experienced than a doctor who insists he/she does them all equally well.
• Listen up. When you meet a cosmetic dermatologist for the first time, It’s best to give a vague sense of why you’re there and then let him/her talk. Mention that you’re bothered by the lines on your face or noticeable leg veins, but don’t go into all the remedies you’ve researched online. Listen to how they’d address those issues. Their opinion will give you a sense of their aesthetic philosophy, including how aggressive they are.
• Ask the right questions. You want someone who does the procedures you’re seeking all the time. At least three to five cases a day is good; more is even better. For lasers, ask if the practice owns or rents the devices. If they rent, they aren’t lasering as much.

The Kopelson Clinic offers a myriad of advanced dermatological treatments and procedures, Dr. Kopelson and his staff provide personalized clinical suggestions and cosmetic dermatology services to customize each patient’s specific medical and cosmetic concerns.

Click here or contact The Kopelson Clinic to schedule an appointment today.