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Symptom-to-specialty pillar guide

Rashes, Acne & Suspicious Moles: When to See a Dermatologist

January 1, 1970 · by the Help Me Find A Doctor editorial team

Illustrative photograph for Rashes, Acne & Suspicious Moles: When to See a Dermatologist

A patient-friendly guide to matching skin problems to the right dermatology visit — medical vs. cosmetic, general vs. Mohs surgery, and what to bring to the first appointment.

Symptoms this guide covers

  • Persistent acne after age 25
  • Suspicious or changing mole
  • Itchy rash that won't resolve
  • Hair loss or scalp irritation
  • Rosacea flushing and redness
  • Cosmetic concerns — filler, Botox, laser

Which specialists to see

  • Dermatology

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    General medical dermatology — acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer screening.

  • Cosmetic Dermatology

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    Botox, filler, lasers, and non-surgical rejuvenation.

  • Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery

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    Surgical scar revision or complex facial reconstruction.

Annual skin checks are worth booking

A dermatology full-body skin exam takes 10–15 minutes and can catch early melanoma when it's easily treated. Anyone with a personal or family history of skin cancer, heavy sun exposure, or numerous atypical moles should book yearly.

Frequently asked questions

Can my primary care doctor handle acne?

Yes for mild to moderate cases. Cystic acne, scarring acne, or anything that hasn't responded to two prescription regimens deserves a dermatologist.

Ready for the next step?

Every specialist listed here is searchable in our directory — verified against the NPPES NPI Registry.