Choosing a dermatologist can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the process. Finding a best dermatologist that can help address your skin issues or even just educate you on how to keep your skin healthy should be an important priority to anyone interested in their appearance. If you’re looking for a dermatologist, here are five things to look for when choosing one.
1) Do your research
Not all dermatologists are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before scheduling an appointment. A good dermatologist will have experience working with a variety of patients and issues, as well as staying up-to-date on new technologies and products. The best way to narrow down your search is by deciding what exactly you’re looking for from your dermatologist.
2) Ask your friends
Before you schedule an appointment with a dermatologist, ask your friends who they see. Word of mouth recommendations from trusted sources are invaluable in finding a physician who is right for you. If your family and friends have skin concerns similar to yours, then you can feel confident that their recommendations will be as helpful as possible.
3) Talk to them on the phone
The first thing you should do is ask them if they have any available times you can speak with them. If there are no appointments, that might be an immediate red flag. What are their hours? If they’re booked through November, perhaps it’s best to move on. But also take note of how enthusiastic they are about your call or question—if they sound rushed or disinterested, it may be best to continue searching.
4) See if they specialize in anything
It’s rare that one doctor is an expert in every medical field. Research what your issue may be and see if your dermatologist specializes in that area. For example, if you have redness around your eyes due to sun damage, seek out someone who does laser treatments for these kinds of problems.
5) Check their social profiles
Their social profiles are an effective way of finding out information about their experience, work style, and personality. This is where they’ll post articles related to dermatology and other advice related to skincare. Their social media presence can also give you an idea of how well they relate with their patients.