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If you've been concerned about an issue that affects your skin, be it a rash, spot, dryness, a lump, or any of many other problems, and you've been everywhere to try and find out why it's happening, but no one seems to be certain, you may have been thinking about getting a second or expert opinion from a specialist skin consultant.
That specialism is called dermatology. The range of medical conditions that dermatology covers is large and includes conditions ranging from acne and eczema, through to psoriasis and rashes, and perhaps the most worrying of all, skin cancers.
According to the British Association of Dermatologists, 24% of the UK population visit their doctor every year with a dermatological condition of one sort or another, so it's not just the sheer number of patients who suffer with skin problems, it's the diversity of conditions and causes that can make finding the cause and the right solution that much harder.
All consultant dermatologists go through basic medical training in the UK. This can take anywhere from 6 to 8 years, after which, specialist training begins. That training takes a further 4 to 9 years depending on the branch of dermatology chosen.
Dermatology consultants are registered in the Specialist Register of the General Medical Council. The GMC are there to help protect patients and ensure all standards are met or exceeded.
Your GP may refer you to a registered consultant dermatologist if they believe your condition needs further investigation, or you can book directly with a registered private consultant if you'd prefer to pay privately or have medical insurance (please check with your insurance provider).
What happens on the day of your visit depends very much on your condition. For example, if you wanted to check your skin health in general, then a full body skin check would probably be the best option.
On the other hand, if you have a rash in one specific area of your body, then that will be the most likely place your consultant will want to check.
In all cases though, your history will be the first topic to be discussed. This will include your medical history, current medication, diet, and general fitness.
Tests may be done on your initial visit, for example, to analyse your blood, or, if the tests need to be more extensive, you may be advised that a further visit is necessary to book you in for the appropriate treatment.
Once your consultant has examined you, and any test results have been returned, your consultant will let you know the results and talk with you about any possible treatments or changes you can make to help with your condition
We have a large roster of specialist dermatologists based right around the UK, so wherever you live, you should be able to find a consultant fairly close to you.
Please use our simple specialist finder to start the process, then refine your search by post code, town, or hospital. From there you can book a consultation online.
We hope to see you soon.
