3 signs you should see a dermatologist

Without a dermatologist, it can be difficult to determine whether your skin condition is innocuous or warrants medical attention. Clear your mind and check out this list for three major signs your skin is trying to tell you something.

Many people have moles on their bodies, and it's perfectly healthy to have dark coloured spots on your skin. Moles are worth paying attention to if they have changed, become discoloured, or look enlarged, inflamed, or oddly-shaped. Get professional opinion on moles that grow or spread and moles that bleed or show signs of scabbing.

Those who've had severe sunburns are often at a greater risk for having dangerous moles, since damaged skin from sunburns is more likely to result in cancerous skin cells. Not sure about the state of your mole? It never hurts to be vigilant and ask.

Acne is a normal part of life, particularly during adolescence. Many factors contribute to acne, like not washing your face regularly enough, not getting enough sleep and being stressed.

If you have severe acne that does not improve with over-the-counter treatment, a dermatologist can help you uncover the causes of your acne and treat the problem with a prescription cleanser, lotion, or ointment.

Dermatologists can also prescribe antibiotics to treat painful, cyst-like acne. They can also recommend lifestyle changes to help improve your skin, like eating a healthier diet or avoiding smoking.

Many rashes are not severe, since some crop up on skin due to environmental irritants, allergies, fungus, or infections and aren't inactive of an underlying issue. Although many people simply wait for a rash to go away on its own, dermatologists recommend seeing a doctor at the first sign of a rash to get an accurate diagnosis.

Rashes to keep an eye on include ones that itch persistently after applying anti-itch ointment; ones that last more than one day and worsen over time; and rashes accompanied by fever, hives, or tightness of the throat.

If any of the above skin conditions are troubling you, see your doctor and ask to be referred to a dermatologist.