When to See a Dermatologist: 6 Signs You Should Know

Adam Burling
5 days ago
9 min read

Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered, "Is this new spot normal?" or "Why won't this acne go away?" Many people in the St. Louis area face this uncertainty, often delaying care because they're unsure if their concern is serious enough for a specialist. Deciding when to see a dermatologist can feel confusing, but ignoring potential warning signs can allow minor issues to become significant health problems.

At Mid-County Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine, frequently see patients who express relief at finally getting a clear diagnosis and effective treatment plan. This guide is designed to remove the guesswork. We will outline six specific situations that warrant a professional consultation, empowering you to act decisively for your skin's long-term health. To help you determine if your skin concern warrants a professional opinion, consider these key signs you shouldn't ignore when considering a dermatologist visit as a valuable starting point.

What You Need to Know

For those in the St. Louis community looking for a quick overview, here's when you should book an appointment with a dermatologist:

A new or changing mole: Use the ABCDE rule to check for signs of skin cancer.
A sore that won't heal: A wound that lingers for over a month could be a sign of skin cancer.
Severe or scarring acne: When over-the-counter treatments fail, professional help is needed to prevent permanent damage.
A sudden rash with other symptoms: A rash accompanied by fever, joint pain, or feeling unwell requires urgent medical attention.
Unusual hair loss: Patchy, sudden, or significant hair thinning can signal an underlying medical condition.
Chronic skin conditions: If eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea affects your daily life, a dermatologist can offer effective management plans.

1. A New or Changing Mole (The ABCDE Rule)

One of the most critical reasons to know when to see a dermatologist is for the evaluation of a new or changing mole. Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is highly treatable when detected early.

The ABCDE rule, promoted by the American Academy of Dermatology, provides a simple framework for self-exams. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2019), regular self-checks are a proactive step in monitoring skin health, as the five-year survival rate for melanoma caught early is about 99%.

The ABCDEs of Moles

A is for Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other. Normal moles are typically symmetrical.
B is for Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred. Benign moles usually have smooth, even borders.
C is for Color: The color is uneven and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
D is for Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser).
E is for Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation, or develops symptoms like bleeding or itching.

Deciding When to See a Dermatologist

To help you apply these criteria, the following video illustrates a simplified thought process for evaluating a mole at home.

Actionable Tips for Mole Monitoring

To effectively monitor your skin, use bright light and a full-length mirror. Don't forget hard-to-see areas like your scalp and back.

If you notice a suspicious spot, taking a clear photo next to a ruler can help you and your dermatologist track any changes over time.

2. A Sore That Doesn't Heal

Another compelling reason to see a dermatologist is any sore, cut, or wound that refuses to heal within four weeks. A persistent sore that bleeds, crusts, and re-opens can be a warning sign of skin cancer.

Early intervention is key. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (2022), conditions like basal cell carcinoma have a cure rate of over 95% when treated promptly by a qualified dermatologist.

Understanding Non-Healing Sores

A sore that lingers may signal that the body's repair mechanisms are being disrupted by cancerous cells, such as:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This common skin cancer can appear as a persistent, non-healing sore that might bleed easily, a shiny bump, or a scar-like area.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type often presents as a non-healing sore with a rough, scaly, or crusted surface.
Underlying Conditions: A chronic wound on the lower legs could also be related to circulatory problems or diabetes, requiring specialized care.

Deciding When to See a Dermatologist

A wound that fails to heal after a month warrants immediate professional attention. Any sore that repeatedly heals and then reappears in the same location is also a significant red flag.

The board-certified dermatologists at Mid-County Dermatology in St. Louis have extensive experience in diagnosing these lesions. A consultation with Dr. Feigenbaum or Dr. Gibstine may involve a biopsy to determine the exact cause.

Actionable Tips for Wound Monitoring

Keep a Photo Log: Take weekly photos of the wound with a ruler next to it for scale.
Note Key Changes: Journal any bleeding, oozing, crusting, or new pain and itching.
Prioritize Sun-Exposed Areas: Pay special attention to sores on the face, ears, neck, and scalp.
Don't Dismiss It: Avoid assuming a persistent sore is just a stubborn cut. Prompt evaluation is always the safest course of action.

3. Severe or Chronic Acne

While many people experience breakouts, severe or chronic acne that persists despite over-the-counter treatments is a clear sign of when to see a dermatologist. Painful cysts and nodules require professional intervention to control.

Untreated severe acne can lead to permanent scarring and impact self-esteem. Exploring ways to improve troublesome acne symptoms is a great first step, but a dermatologist can create a targeted treatment plan.

Signs of Severe Acne

Cystic and Nodular Lesions: Large, painful, deep-seated bumps under the skin.
Widespread Breakouts: Acne covers a large area of the face, chest, back, or shoulders.
Persistence: Acne does not improve with consistent use of over-the-counter products.
Scarring: Breakouts leave behind pitted scars or dark spots.
Emotional Distress: The condition causes significant anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal.

Deciding When to See a Dermatologist

If your acne fits the description above, professional help is essential. A dermatologist can offer treatments not available over the counter.

Studies published in Dermatology and Therapy (2020) show that early intervention and appropriate treatment can prevent up to 95% of potential acne scarring. Prescribed combination therapies can reduce acne severity by 75-90% for most patients.

Actionable Tips for Managing Severe Acne

While awaiting your appointment with us at Mid-County Dermatology, you can take steps to manage your skin. These actions can support your professional treatment plan.

Keep an acne diary to track potential triggers like diet or stress. It is crucial to avoid picking or squeezing cysts, as this dramatically increases the risk of permanent scarring and infection. Be patient, as professional treatments often take 3-4 months to show results.

4. A Sudden Rash with Other Symptoms

A rapidly developing rash accompanied by symptoms like fever, joint pain, or difficulty breathing can be a red flag for a serious medical condition. Knowing when to see a dermatologist for these rashes is crucial.

These systemic symptoms signal that the rash is more than a surface-level issue. Prompt diagnosis is critical. For instance, early dermatological care for Stevens-Johnson syndrome can significantly reduce mortality rates, as noted in a JAMA Dermatology study (2021).

Understanding the Warning Signs

Drug Reactions: Conditions like DRESS syndrome can cause a widespread rash, fever, and internal organ inflammation.
Autoimmune Diseases: A butterfly rash across the cheeks can be an early sign of lupus.
Severe Infections: Certain bacterial or viral infections can manifest with a rash and systemic symptoms.
Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels can cause rashes along with joint pain, fever, and fatigue.

Deciding When to See a Dermatologist

If you develop a new, rapidly spreading rash and feel unwell, seek medical attention promptly. An emergency room visit is warranted for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or a high fever.

For less severe but still concerning symptoms, scheduling an urgent appointment with a dermatologist is the correct action. The dermatologists at Mid-County Dermatology can diagnose these complex conditions.

Actionable Tips for Rash Monitoring

Seek Emergency Care: If the rash is accompanied by shortness of breath, swelling of the face or lips, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Document Everything: Take daily photos of the rash to track its progression.
List Your Medications: Compile a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Don't Dismiss the Connection: A rash appearing while you feel sick is not a coincidence. Report all symptoms to your healthcare provider.

5. Sudden or Unusual Hair Loss

Losing some hair daily is normal, but sudden or unusual hair loss patterns can signal an underlying medical issue that requires a professional diagnosis from a dermatologist.

Recognizing these patterns is a crucial first step. Early treatment for conditions like alopecia areata can lead to regrowth in up to 60% of cases, while treating androgenetic alopecia can prevent further loss in about 80% of individuals, according to research from the American Academy of Dermatology (2023).

Different Hair Loss Patterns

Circular Bald Spots: Smooth, coin-sized bald patches are a classic sign of alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder.
Sudden, Diffuse Thinning: A sudden shedding of large amounts of hair can indicate telogen effluvium, often triggered by stress or illness.
Scaling Patches on the Scalp: Itchy, scaly patches may indicate tinea capitis, a fungal infection requiring prescription medication.
Gradual Thinning at the Crown: A slowly receding hairline or thinning on top of the head is often androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness).
Scarring and Inflammation: Hair loss with redness, itching, and pain can signal a scarring alopecia, where follicles are permanently destroyed.

Actionable Tips for Monitoring Hair Loss

To help your dermatologist, document your symptoms thoroughly. This provides valuable clues about the underlying cause.

Start by taking clear photos of the affected areas. Keep a log of associated symptoms, such as scalp itching or pain. Consider recent life events, like high stress or dietary changes, as these can be factors. If you're a woman, resources like a guide to the best shampoos for thinning hair for women may be helpful as you prepare for professional advice.

6. Chronic Skin Conditions That Affect Your Life

When eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea affects your daily life, it is a clear sign to see a dermatologist. Chronic conditions that interfere with sleep, work, or social interactions require specialized medical care.

Seeking professional help is crucial for improving quality of life. Modern biologic treatments can achieve a 90% improvement in psoriasis, according to a 2022 review in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Our St. Louis dermatologists at Mid-County Dermatology can create personalized plans to help you regain control.

Understanding Chronic Conditions

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin that can disrupt sleep.
Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition causing thick, scaly, and often painful patches.
Rosacea: Appears as persistent facial redness, flushing, and bumps, which can impact self-esteem.

Deciding When to See a Dermatologist

If your skin condition is not improving with at-home care, it's time for a professional evaluation. A dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and rule out other underlying issues.

Ignoring a chronic condition can lead to severe flare-ups and a decline in well-being. For residents in the St. Louis area, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine offer expert consultations to address these frustrating skin concerns.

Actionable Tips for Managing Your Condition

Keep a Symptom Diary: Note when your symptoms flare and what environmental, dietary, or stress-related factors may have contributed.
Take Photos: Document your skin's condition with clear photos to provide a visual timeline.
Be Consistent: Adhere strictly to the treatment regimen prescribed by your dermatologist.
Discuss Your Quality of Life: Be open with your dermatologist about how the condition affects you emotionally and physically.

Key Takeaways: Your Guide to Seeing a Dermatologist

Navigating skin health can feel overwhelming, but recognizing signs that require professional attention is the first step. Your skin is a vital organ that deserves expert care from a qualified specialist.

Here are the most important takeaways:

Don't Delay Evaluation: For concerns like changing moles or non-healing sores, prompt evaluation is critical. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Quality of Life Matters: Conditions like severe acne or chronic eczema impact your mental health and daily comfort. A dermatologist can provide effective treatments.
Your Skin Reflects Internal Health: Sudden changes in your skin, hair, or nails can indicate a systemic condition. A board-certified dermatologist is trained to recognize these connections.

If any of these situations resonate with you, it's time to move from concern to action. Resisting the urge to "wait and see" is the most important decision you can make for your skin's long-term health. The expert dermatologists at Mid-County Dermatology in St. Louis, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine, are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I know if a mole is dangerous?A mole may be dangerous if it shows any of the ABCDE signs: Asymmetry, an irregular Border, uneven Color, a Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, or if it is Evolving (changing). If you notice any of these, schedule a skin check with a dermatologist immediately.

2. Can I treat severe acne at home?While over-the-counter products can help with mild acne, severe or cystic acne rarely responds to them. A dermatologist can provide prescription-strength treatments, such as topical retinoids, oral medications, or other procedures, to prevent permanent scarring and effectively control breakouts.

3. Is hair loss always a sign of a serious problem?Not always. Losing 50-100 hairs per day is normal. However, sudden hair loss, circular bald patches, or significant thinning can signal an underlying medical condition like an autoimmune disorder, thyroid issue, or nutritional deficiency that requires a dermatologist's diagnosis.

4. When should a rash be considered an emergency?A rash is an emergency if it is accompanied by difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, a high fever, or if it covers your entire body and blisters. These can be signs of a severe allergic reaction or life-threatening condition, and you should go to the emergency room immediately.

Ready to prioritize your skin's health with expert guidance? The board-certified team at Mid-County Dermatology is dedicated to providing the St. Louis community with comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for all skin concerns. Schedule your consultation today and take the most important step toward healthy, vibrant skin.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Feigenbaum, Dr. Gibstine, or another qualified healthcare provider at Mid-County Dermatology for personalized treatment recommendations. Individual results may vary.