Private Dermatologist: FAQs

If it is your first time seeing a private dermatologist, you’re not alone. Here are our frequently asked questions:

I want to book with a dermatologist – how does it work? 

You’re in the right place – when you book in with one of our dermatologists they will review your medical history and the history of your skin concern, they will then examine your skin (sensitively!) and determine what is going on, and importantly – why. This enables them to provide a treatment plan, appropriate medications, and the advice for you to keep your skin well at home too.  

How much time will I have with the dermatologist?

You’ll need half an hour in the diary, which gives the dermatologist plenty of time to go through your medical history, skin concerns and thoroughly go through a treatment plan with you. Want more time? No problem – ask for an extended appointment at the time of booking. 

Do I have to come back and see the dermatologist after my initial appointment? 

It depends. Often we can diagnose and treat in one session and all is well as you go armed with the knowledge of how to keep your skin well. Sometimes, we need to book you back in for a follow up to check everything is working as it should and no tweaks on the medication are needed.  

Acne often needs more than one appointment if you’re on strong medications, for example. Whereas a lot of rashes are treated within the one appointment.  Everyone’s skin is different though – what works for you may not work for someone else. Like any good dermatology clinic, we are always on hand for questions and follow ups. 

Will I get a prescription within the appointment?

Yes – if you need prescription medication then the dermatologist will print this for you to take to a pharmacy following the consultation. It is worth noting that prescriptions are then payable at the pharmacy and medications vary in cost. We will provide you with an indication of costs but it is worth checking with the pharmacist too. Sometimes, your GP is happy to provide the medications going forwards with a letter from the dermatologist.

How much is it for a consultation? 

With Dr Armstrong (our medical director) it is 205 for a consultation (from April 2024).  

With Dr Nasim (general dermatologist and hair specialist) it is 250 for a consultation and 300 for her hair consultations. She is super-specialised, hence the fee difference.  

With Dr Maria Roest (general dermatologist and skin cancer specialist) it is 250 for a consultation because she sees complex cases and skin cancer surgery (particularly if you have a history of skin cancer). 

Why is Dr Armstrong different? 

Dr Armstrong is a generalist who sees a lot of mole checks and acne, and we know with acne that you may need to see the dermatologist more than once so we keep prices reasonable for this reason.  

Can you use medical insurance to see a dermatologist? 

Yes! Dr Roest and Dr Rouhani are covered by all the major insurers. We need your policy number and auth code if you want us to bill them directly. Dr Cherry is covered by some (particularly international) insurers, but we will ask you to pay first so you can be reimbursed (unless you have evidence from your insurer that cover has been approved).   

It can feel like a bit of a minefield finding a dermatologist that fits your needs, which is why we strive to keep it simple and make good skin easy.

If you have more questions – please do not hesitate to reach out. We thrive on chatting about skin and want you to be confident when accessing a private dermatologist (whether it is us or someone else).

Warmest regards,

Helen

Helen Wyre

Co-founder, No. 23 Skin

hc@23skin.co.uk