What To Expect During A Consultation At A Dermatology Clinic

Your skin is the first line of defense against illness or infection, making it especially important to keep it healthy. Dermatology providers specialize in skin health, treating a vast array of conditions that can affect your skin and offering treatments to keep it in top form. When you schedule a consultation at a skincare clinic, you are taking the first step toward giving your skin the TLC it deserves. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare, ensures your first visit will be productive and helpful.  

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU TO YOUR CONSULTATION 

Your dermatology provider will likely ask you many questions at your first appointment, to get an accurate picture of your specific needs and goals. To help the process, it is a good idea to bring the following information to your consultation:      

• Insurance card (if insurance covers the visit and procedure you need)    
• Specific concerns you have about your skin    
• Medications you currently take    
• Diagnosed conditions (both skin conditions and other medical conditions)    
• Pictures of any concerning skin lesions when you were younger for reference    
• Skin care products you have questions about  

WHAT THE PROVIDER WILL DISCUSS DURING YOUR APPOINTMENT 

Your dermatology provider will help make you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible throughout the entire consultation, giving you the opportunity to discuss any concerns or expectations you may have. Your provider will also discuss the skin care procedures available for any skin conditions you may struggle with, such as:      

• Acne  
• Birthmarks  
• Melasma  
• Scars 

You will also have the opportunity to talk about cosmetic concerns you may have, since dermatologists often provide treatments to target these issues as well. Common aesthetic concerns dermatology providers address include:      

• Wrinkles  
• Sun Spots and Age Spots  
• Broken Capillaries  
• Sagging Skin 

Experienced, board-certified providers will offer a variety of treatment options that allow them to customize your procedure to your precise needs for the best possible results. Some popular treatment options include:      

• Wrinkle Relaxers  
• Injectable Dermal Fillers  
• Skin Tightening  
• Laser Skin Resurfacing 

WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD YOU ASK YOUR PROVIDER 

To ensure that your appointment is both informative and productive, it is important that you ask your dermatology provider the right questions. These six questions are a good place to start at any consultation:      

• Is my skincare routine working?    
• Do any of my moles look suspicious?    
• Are my medications or supplements affecting my skin?    
• How is my skin aging?    
• Which skincare products are right for my skin type?    
• Which skincare treatments might be right for me?  

You may also have questions that apply to your specific concerns or goals. Make a list of your questions before your consultation so that you don’t forget any of them while you are talking with your dermatologist.  

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR TREATMENT PLAN 

Once you and your dermatology provider have created a customized treatment plan, preparation before procedures will help to ensure every appointment is safe and successful. Your provider may send you home with a list of pre-treatment instructions that might include avoiding certain medications or supplements that could increase your risk for bleeding and bruising during and after your treatment.  

You may also need to stop using certain skincare products to ensure your skin is not too sensitive to undergo the treatment you choose. For example, your provider may recommend stopping products that contain retinol to prevent a reaction after your procedure. You may also be asked to avoid sun exposure, since many treatments do not work well on tanned skin.  

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT 

Your dermatology provider will give you a set of post-treatment instructions that may include the following steps:      

1. Treat your skin gently. Avoid harsh chemicals, waxes, peels, or other laser treatments at least two weeks after your appointment. Gently wash your skin using a mild cleanser and apply any topical products recommended by your provider.    
2. Keep pores clear to prevent breakouts. Avoid using makeup or topical creams that could clog the pores and cause irritation, breakouts, and damage to the skin.    
3. Avoid sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation and other damage. Stay out of the sun for at least seven days after the treatment.    
4. Stay out of the heat. It may also be a good idea to avoid hot showers, tubs, heating pads, and saunas, as these can increase your risk for skin irritation. On the other hand, ice and cool compresses can soothe the skin after treatments.  

QUESTIONS ABOUT WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A CONSULTATION? CONTACT LASER & SKIN SURGERY CENTER OF PENNSYLVANIA TODAY 

The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of Pennsylvania offers state-of-the-art treatments, experience, and expertise in its 8,000+ square foot treatment facility. Our team is here to help you achieve the best version of yourself, no matter what your cosmetic goals may be. Our clinic uses the most advanced methods in research, diagnosis, and treatments of skin conditions.  

Are you ready to schedule your skincare consultation at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of Pennsylvania? Contact us today to make your appointment.