Private Dermatology Services In Croydon | Shirley Oaks Hospital Skip to main content

Dermatology in Croydon

Skin specialists offering diagnosis and treatment for skin cancer and other skin conditions

specialist examining a patients skin condition using medical microscope

Private dermatology clinic in Croydon, Surrey

At Shirley Oaks Hospital, our consultant gynaecologists offer treatment for a wide range of gynaecological problems. 

Located in Shirley Oaks Village on the outskirts of Croydon, our private hospital sees patients from Southwest London including areas such as Sutton, Coulsdon, Purley, Wallington, and Kenley. We also help treat patients from East Surrey including areas such as Banstead, Warlingham, Chipstead, and beyond.  

People travel to us to seek the expertise of our experienced consultants and to make the most of our high quality, modern facilities and compassionate team of healthcare professionals.  

At Shirley Oaks Hospital, our expert dermatologists diagnose, manage, and treat all types of skin problems, from inflammatory skin conditions to different types of skin cancer. 

Whether you are frustrated by an itchy rash or concerned about a mole, why not book an appointment to see one of our consultant dermatologists today? 

They would be delighted to meet with you to discuss your skin condition and arrange any treatment needed. 

 

What is dermatology? 

Dermatology is the study and treatment of the skin, hair and nails. A doctor who specialises in this area is known as a dermatologist. 

Your skin provides you protection from the elements, synthesises vitamin D, and helps to regulate your body temperature. It is a remarkable organ and plays an important role in your health. 

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and any type of damage to it can have a significant impact on your overall health, wellbeing and quality of life.  

Unfortunately, there are a number of ways skin can be damaged, including: 

  • Ultraviolet light/sun damage 
  • Irritants and allergens 
  • Specific skin diseases 
  • Genetic factors 
  • Stress 
  • Injury

Skin problems are very common and can affect all ages. If a problem occurs in a more visible place, such as on your face or an arm, you may find it has a surprisingly big negative impact on your self-confidence. 

While some skin conditions can clear up naturally over time, many others will need professional medical treatment and management to successfully resolve symptoms.  

If you are concerned or worried about any kind of skin problem, the best person to see for help will always be an accredited consultant dermatologist. Their training and expertise will enable them to assess and diagnose the problem and plan appropriate treatment for your specific needs. 

 

Do you have one of these common skin conditions?

Many people come to Shirley Oaks Hospital for help with a wide variety of skin conditions.  

Common dermatological conditions we see include: 

  • Acne – causes oily skin and spots, commonly on the face, neck and back 
  • Contact dermatitis – the dermis is the inner layer of skin and -itis describes inflammation. When certain substances come into contact with your skin, they may cause it to become inflamed. This can result in the skin becoming cracked, blistered or itchy 
  • Eczema – a broad group of conditions that cause the skin to become dry and irritated. Tends to be a long-term condition and can range in severity 
  • Psoriasis – a problem with the immune system causes patches of skin to become red, dry, and scaly 
  • Rosacea – flushing around the face or neck caused by an inflammatory skin condition 
  • Hives (urticaria) – a raised, itchy rash on the skin. It may affect only one area 
  • Skin cancer – the most common form of skin cancer in the UK is non-melanoma skin cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment of all types of skin cancer is important. All types of skin cancer are increasing in the UK 
  • Changing moles – moles can change and develop into a very serious type of skin cancer called melanoma. Early detection of melanoma is extremely important. Always have a changed mole checked by a specialist

In addition, dermatologists can investigate and treat: 

  • All types of inflammatory skin diseases, including autoimmune skin disease 
  • Any skin allergies, either already known or suspected 
  • All types of lumps and bumps 

Whatever skin problem you have, your consultant dermatologist will provide you with expert assessment and diagnosis. If treatment is needed, they will arrange that for you. 



What happens in a private dermatology appointment? 

When you first meet with one of our consultants, they ask you about your medical history and any symptoms.  

They may ask you questions during your appointment, such as: 

  • What symptoms do you have? 
  • How long you’ve had these symptoms? 
  • Have they’ve been getting worse? 
  • What treatments have you tried already? 
  • Is there anything that is causing you particular concern (for example, are you worrying you may have skin cancer)? 

They will also do a physical examination of the affected area(s) of your skin.  

For some skin conditions, further investigations may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. These may include: 

  • Blood tests 
  • Allergy testing – certain things can produce an unusually strong response in the immune system despite there being no danger to the body from them. These are known as allergens, and they may cause reactions in the skin. Allergy testing helps clarify the substances that cause a reaction in your skin. Allergy testing may involve taking a blood sample or doing skin patch tests 
  • Mole mapping – The number of moles on your body and their position is measured and recorded (mapped). Repeated over time, this can help show any changes in numbers, size and/or position of the moles. It is used when screening for suspected melanoma 
  • Biopsy – a small sample of skin is removed and sent for further analysis (histology) to confirm the diagnosis, including whether there is a skin cancer 

Your consultant will arrange any tests that are needed to confirm a diagnosis. Once the results of any tests are back, they will discuss the results and explore suitable treatment options with you.  


Treatment options for skin concerns at Shirley Oaks Hospital 

Treatment for a skin condition may involve watchful waiting, medication, application of a topical cream or ointment or skin surgery. 

Skin surgery or procedures available with us include: 

If you require skin surgery or cryotherapy, your consultant will explain how it will be done, the results you should expect to see, and any potential risk you should be aware of. 

Following treatment, if your symptoms reoccur or you have any questions or concerns at any time, it is very easy to arrange to see your consultant again to discuss this with them. 

 

How much does a private dermatology appointment cost at Shirley Oaks Hospital? 

The cost of an initial consultation with one of our dermatologists starts from around £200, and if you need tests during the appointment this will be charged separately. Similarly if you are able to have treatment during this consultation, you’ll be charged separately for this. Any costs will be fully explained before any tests or procedures are performed, and you’ll be given a full breakdown of costs in writing.  

The cost of dermatology treatment depends on what procedure you’re having done and the reasons for having it, and prices also vary depending on the expertise of your consultant. Again, you’ll be told everything ahead of time, with a full breakdown of costs.  

If you have private medical insurance, dermatology treatment is often covered by insurance policies. If you are paying for yourself, you have the choice to either pay in full up front, or use one of our flexible payment plans to spread the cost over a time period of your choice, from 10 months to five years.  

 

Why choose Shirley Oaks Hospital for private skin care in Croydon?

People in Croydon and the surrounding areas choose to visit Shirley Oaks Hospital for their skin treatments because of our reputation for clinical excellence and compassionate, personalised care. 

Many will have been referred by their GP or through their private medical insurance company. Others will choose to self-refer because they want to get help sooner than is possible elsewhere. We treat people with private medical insurance as well as self-paying patients. 

When you choose Shirley Oaks Hospital, benefits include: 

Access to an expert in skin health, ASAP

If you’re concerned, worried or frustrated by a skin problem, you’ll appreciate being able to see a skin specialist as soon as possible. We can book you a private appointment with an experienced consultant dermatologist quickly so that you’re able to benefit from starting any treatment required sooner. 

Flexible appointments 

We offer private appointments throughout the week, making it easy to find a time that’s convenient for you. Bookings can be made online or by phone. 

Remote consultations available

The majority of consultations for skin conditions are carried out in person at Shirley Oaks, but we are able to offer remote consultations by telephone or online video call if needed and where clinically appropriate. 

Bespoke treatment

Skin problems can be caused by several factors and treatment is always best when it’s tailored to you and your unique situation. Your consultant dermatologist will review your response to treatment at appropriate intervals and adjust things when necessary to provide you with the best relief of symptoms. 

Multidisciplinary team

Your consultant dermatologist is supported by a number of other healthcare professionals at Shirley Oaks, including radiologists, ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeons, rheumatologists and plastic surgeons. This range of expertise help ensure you receive the support and treatment that is best for you, whatever your skin condition. 

Comprehensive range of services

Effective treatments are available for a wide range of skin problems, and our experienced consultant dermatologists would be delighted to help you. They will fully investigate the cause(s) of your problem and then talk with you about suitable treatment options available. 

Easy to get to 

We’re very easy to travel to and our car park has 100 spaces, so you won’t need to worry about where to park when you visit for your appointment. 

 

How to book a dermatologist in Croydon

To book your initial consultation with one of our dermatologists near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.  

 

Content reviewed by In-house Team in January 2026. Next review due January 2029.

Specialists offering Dermatology

View all specialists

{{ error }}

Find a specialist

i