Opens in a new tab
Your health and comfort matter to us053 414 2222
Illustration for the Dermatology and Skin Health guide
Knowledge centre · Health information

Understand your skin,
before choosing treatment.

Explore how dermatologists assess skin, hair and nail concerns, and how medical treatment differs from cosmetic procedures.
General educational information. A dermatology clinic is not currently available at Alsubhi Clinics.

Why does a skin assessment matter?

Bumps, itching and pigmentation may look similar while having different causes. A medical assessment helps identify the problem and choose suitable care, rather than trying multiple products that may irritate the skin.

Dermatology covers skin, hair and nails, including temporary concerns and chronic conditions. Some conditions need ongoing care even after symptoms improve.

Illustration for the Dermatology and Skin Health guide

What does a dermatologist assess?

01

Acne and acne marks

Assessment considers the type and severity of acne and the risk of scarring. Treating active acne differs from treating its marks. Discuss the plan and expected timescale before starting.

02

Eczema, itching and rashes

Itching may relate to dryness, eczema, allergy or other causes. Gentle care and moisturising may help eczema, but medicines depend on the diagnosis, affected area and age.

03

Psoriasis and persistent redness

Psoriasis, rosacea and other causes of redness need clinical assessment and follow-up. A patch’s colour or resemblance to an online photograph does not establish its cause.

04

Pigmentation and moles

Pigmentation differs from moles and other skin lesions. New changes should be assessed before a peel or laser treatment, especially when a mole changes shape, colour or size.

05

Hair loss and scalp concerns

Treatment depends on the pattern and duration of hair loss and examination of the scalp. Relevant medical or medicine-related factors may call for targeted tests rather than a routine panel for everyone.

06

Warts and nail changes

Nail problems and skin growths can look alike. Examination helps determine whether medicine, a local procedure or monitoring is appropriate, including infection risks and treatment precautions.

Medical and cosmetic care have different goals

Peels, lasers, botulinum toxin, fillers, mesotherapy and platelet-rich plasma are different procedures. They do not all address the same concern or suit every person.

Peels may irritate skin or alter pigmentation. Injection risks vary by substance, area and technique. Start with a clear assessment, relevant evidence, alternatives and a discussion of complications with a qualified professional.

Preparing for a consultation

Note when symptoms began and what makes them better or worse. Bring the names of your medicines, supplements and skin products. Photographs of earlier changes can help if symptoms settle before the appointment.

Ask about diagnosis, alternatives, expected improvement and follow-up. Do not change prescribed medicines or apply strong mixtures to inflamed skin without medical advice.

Changes that deserve prompt assessment

Seek assessment for a concerning new or changing mole, uneven halves, irregular borders, multiple colours, bleeding, itching or persistent change. These signs do not prove cancer, but they should be examined.

Common questions

Does every skin concern need a cosmetic procedure?

No. Suitable skin care, medicines or monitoring may be enough, depending on the diagnosis. A cosmetic procedure should have a clear purpose and realistic expectations.

Can acne treatment be chosen from photographs?

Photographs may help follow-up, but do not always replace an examination, medical history and assessment of severity and previous treatment.

Can I book dermatology at Alsubhi Clinics?

This is an educational guide. A dermatology clinic is not currently available at Alsubhi Clinics.

Information helps you choose your next step

Explore related topics in our knowledge centre.