When to See a Dermatologist? What Actually Matters for Your Skin

Searching for skin advice often happens at a moment of need.
Acne isn’t settling. A rash won’t go away. A mole has changed and you’re not sure what to do next.

And suddenly you’re faced with a minefield of options — clinics, products, promises — many of which claim the world and quietly underdeliver. Here’s the facts about when to see a dermatologist.

At No. 23 Skin, we believe knowledge is the most important part of skin care. Because while good creams can make your skin feel hydrated and radiant, treating acne, rashes, pigmentation or moles properly requires specialist support.

This is what we want patients to understand before choosing a dermatologist.

Not Everyone Who Says They’re a “Dermatologist” Is One

The word dermatologist is widely (and loosely) used. But in the UK, it has a very specific meaning.

To become a Consultant Dermatologist, a doctor must complete:

• A medical degree (5–6 years)

• Foundation medical training in hospitals (2 years)

• Core medical training (2–3 years)

• Specialist dermatology training (4 years)

• Membership and certification through the General Medical Council

• Ongoing appraisal, revalidation and clinical governance

This is over a decade of medical training focused on diagnosing and managing skin disease — not just improving how skin looks, but understanding how it functions and when something is wrong.

This matters because skin conditions don’t exist in isolation. Acne, rashes, pigmentation and moles all require clinical judgement, not guesswork.

Start With the Basics: Skin Health Before Skin Perfection

If your goal is better-quality skin — calmer, clearer, more resilient — the starting point is always the same:

• Good overall health

• Simple, consistent skincare

• Targeted actives used appropriately

This is where a lot of people go wrong.

For example, Vitamin C can be excellent for brightening and pigmentation — but it’s often not suitable for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Retinols can help mild acne — but may worsen dryness or eczema-prone skin.

The right question isn’t “What’s trending?”
It’s “What am I actually trying to achieve with my skin?”

A dermatologist helps you answer that.

Acne Isn’t a Phase — It’s a Long-Term Skin Condition

One of the most common reasons people search for a dermatologist near them is acne — often adult acne.

Acne is not a failure of skincare. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition influenced by hormones, genetics, skin barrier function and lifestyle. And while products can help support the skin, they rarely solve acne alone.

Clinical acne management may include:

• Prescription topical treatments

• Oral medications (when appropriate)

• Hormonal assessment

• Targeted laser treatments for active acne or scarring

• Long-term maintenance plans to prevent relapse

At No. 23 Skin, we look at acne as something to manage intelligently over time, not chase with trends.

Cheap Lasers, Untested Treatments? That’s the Scary Stuff

Just as with skincare dupes, cheap lasers and unproven treatments are where we see the most harm.

Lasers are medical devices. Used incorrectly, or without proper diagnosis, they can:

• Worsen pigmentation

• Trigger inflammation

• Delay proper treatment

• Cause long-term skin damage

That’s why at No. 23 Skin we only use clinically approved, evidence-based laser technologies — and why we invested heavily in them.

Not for novelty. For safety, fewer sessions, and results that last.

If something seems too cheap or too easy, it’s usually because corners are being cut.

Dermatologists Support Your Skin — From Start to Finish

A dermatologist’s role isn’t limited to one concern.

We support patients with:

• Seasonal rashes and itchy skin

• Acne and rosacea

• Pigmentation and sun damage

• Mole checks and skin cancer screening

• Long-term skin health through every life stage

Skin changes over time. Hormones change. Life happens. A good dermatologist supports your skin through all of it.

Why We’re Frustrated by Online Fads (And Why That’s a Good Thing)

We’ll be honest: we get frustrated by skincare fads.

Not because we’re anti-innovation — but because misinformation costs people time, money and confidence. Knowledge matters. Diagnosis matters. And evidence always matters more than hype.

At No. 23 Skin, we cut through the noise. We don’t promise miracles. We offer clear explanations, safe treatments and joined-up care — so your skin is supported properly, not pushed from trend to trend.

Looking for a Dermatologist Near You?

If you’re unsure whether your skin concern needs specialist care, a consultation with a qualified dermatologist can help clarify the next step.

We believe in skin that should be lived in.
And skin care that’s grounded in knowledge, not noise.

Book a dermatology consultation with No. 23 Skin.

Helen
CoFounder
No. 23 Skin
02039411815

Contact us.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and does not replace a personalised consultation with a qualified medical professional.