You may think that little white lies or casual omissions when talking to your dermatologist isn’t a big deal. No one likes to be judged, especially not by healthcare professionals, so what’s the harm in the occasional lie to make it seem like you take better care of yourself than you do or like you don’t do something that you know is bad for your skin?

In truth, telling lies to your dermatologist can prevent you from getting the care that you need, because you didn’t provide them with the information they need to help you with the issues you’re facing.

Why It’s A Bad Idea To Lie To Your Dermatologist

While some lies may seem harmless (“I only have one cup of coffee a day – definitely not multiple!”), it’s very important that you are open and honest with all of your medical providers, dermatologists included. Your dermatologist needs to know the full truth about your lifestyle and the things that you do in order to provide you with the best possible care. 

Maybe you don’t wash your face, and you don’t want your dermatologist to lecture you about it – but not washing your face could be the reason why you’re struggling with acne more than usual. So, as tempting as it may be to withhold information or lie, be honest with your dermatologist. It’ll be much better for you in the long run!

Trust is a two-way street, after all. How is your dermatologist going to be able to properly help you with your skin issues if you’re lying to them? You go to the dermatologist for their medical expertise – and in order to provide you with that, your dermatologist needs to be able to trust you to be open and honest with them so that they can provide you with the appropriate care for your needs. 

If you’re lying to your dermatologist, they’ll probably find out eventually, but it may be too late to properly help you. In order to provide you with the proper treatment for your skin issues, your dermatologist needs you to be honest about your habits and lifestyle. 

Common Lies People Tell Their Dermatologist

Here are some common lies that people tell their dermatologists that you really shouldn’t. 

#1. “I Wear Sunscreen Everyday.”

Sunscreen can be tricky. It can take trial and error to find one that works for you, that doesn’t leave a white cast and that blends nicely into your skin. Many people skip sunscreen because they underestimate its importance or none of the ones that they’ve tried work with their skin. Some people don’t like the smell of sunscreen, others struggle with it making their skin shiny, others find that it makes their makeup peel, and others still find that their skin has adverse reactions to it.

Not wearing sunscreen puts you at higher risk for skin cancer and increases the likelihood of premature skin aging. Sun damage isn’t always visible – yet skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Plus, if you’re in your 20s and you have premature wrinkles, not wearing sunscreen could be the reason why they appeared. Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from both of these issues.

Don’t lie to your dermatologist about why you don’t wear sunscreen everyday. If there’s anyone who can help you find a sunscreen that works for you, it’s your dermatologist. Even if you have temperamental skin, your dermatologist will be able to make recommendations for products that both work with your skin and shield it from the sun. Taking a minute out of your day to put sunscreen on is a small price to pay in order to protect yourself from skin cancer.

#2. “I Don’t Pop My Pimples.”

Whether acne is a persistent problem for you or whether you only get the occasional pimple, not popping your pimples is something that we all know we shouldn’t do… But it can be so satisfying. Since it’s a habit that you know you shouldn’t have, it may seem harmless to lie to your dermatologist and claim that you never pop your pimples.

However, you should let your dermatologist know if you do this. This is because popping your pimples can lead to infection and scarring. Your dermatologist may be able to safely extract your pimples, as well as give you recommendations for acne-prevention and what to do when pimples rear their pesky heads.

#3. “I’ve Had This Mole Forever.”

Don’t assume that you know all the moles and freckles that are on your body. They can come and go, and sometimes they’re in hard-to-see places, so you may not know about their existence at all. If your dermatologist points out a mole you didn’t know about, just be honest and tell them that you didn’t know.

It’s important for your dermatologist to know whether freckles and moles are new or not. While most moles are benign, some can indicate more serious skin issues. If you have new or changing moles, have them checked out by your dermatologist to ensure that they’re benign and not something to be worried about. If they are something to worry about, have them treated sooner rather than later. 

#4. “You’re The First Person I’ve Seen For This.”

It may seem harmless to lie to your dermatologist and tell them that you’ve never seen anyone else for the skin issues you’re seeing them for. You may think that this is a good thing and a way to get a fresh perspective that isn’t colored by what’s been done already.

However, your dermatologist needs to know what tests have already been done and what treatment methods you’ve already tried. That way, they can know what’s worked and what hasn’t. If they’re not the first person you’ve seen for an issue, it’s helpful for them to know why you’re seeing someone new for it, whether it be something as simple as not liking the first dermatologist that you went to, not feeling heard by previous dermatologists, or wanting another opinion on an issue. 

#5. “I Wash My Face Every Day.”

A lot of people think that washing your face everyday is frivolous. So, it may seem harmless to lie to your dermatologist and say that you wash your face every day when you really don’t. However, washing your face is important in order to remove sweat, oil, makeup, and the like. If you don’t wash your face, this could be a contributing factor to why you are struggling with acne or another skin issue.

#6. “I Rarely Smoke/Have Sweet Treats.”

Many people lie to their dermatologists and claim that they smoke or have sweet treats far less frequently than they actually do. It’s so common, in fact, that doctors and dermatologists tend to round up the numbers that you do give them. 

While you may think that it’s none of your dermatologist’s business, the truth is that when it comes to your health, your habits are your doctor’s business. This is because each habit can either help or harm you, and those effects need to be taken into account when providing advice and treatment options. If you’re lying about your habits, you could end up contributing to the problems you’re suffering from.

#7. “I Use My Acne Medication Every Day.”

It takes about a month to notice a difference when it comes to skin cell turnover. Unfortunately, acne medication is not a miracle worker. It’s not something that you can use once or twice and then voila! Clear skin! It’s something that you need to be consistent with in order to notice results.

Now more than ever before, people want immediate results. But the truth of the matter is that skin changes take time. In order for acne medication to work, it needs to be used as recommended. If you lie to your dermatologist and tell them that you’re taking your medication every day when you’re not, this impacts your care. 

If there’s a reason why you’re not taking your acne medication every day, your dermatologist needs to know so they can provide advice or adjust your care appropriately. 

#8. “I’m Not On Any Medications/Don’t Take Any Supplements.”

It’s important to be honest about all medications and supplements you are taking with your dermatologist. The reason for this is because certain medications and supplements can impact your skin or could cause adverse reactions when mixed with other medications. 

For example, many people take St. John’s Wort for depression and anxiety. However, this makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. Your dermatologist would need to know this to ensure that you’re getting appropriate sun protection. 

There’s always the potential for medications and/or supplements that you are taking to have a bad mix with something your dermatologist prescribes or recommends. In order to avoid complications, some of which can be life-threatening, your dermatologist needs to know everything that you’re taking so that they know how it may be impacting your skin and what is safe to prescribe you. 

#9. “I’m Not Pregnant.”

Lies about pregnancy may not seem like a big deal when it comes to your dermatologist – after all, it’s not like your dermatologist is involved in prenatal care, right? Dermatologists don’t usually perform pregnancy tests, after all. Even if you’re not sure whether or not you’re pregnant, but there’s a chance, you should let your dermatologist know. 

The reason why your dermatologist should know whether or not you’re pregnant or you could be is because pregnancy can cause all sorts of different dermatological changes. 

Some common skin changes that people experience during pregnancy include: 

• Acne
• Dark spots on your breasts, nipples, or inner thighs
• Melasma (brown patches on your face)
• Changes in nail and hair growth
• Stretch marks
• Spider veins
• Varicose veins
• Linea nigra (a dark line from your navel to your pubic hair)

Are You Struggling With Skin Issues?

If you’re struggling with skin issues, don’t hesitate to be honest with your dermatologist about everything you’re experiencing. You go to a dermatologist to get professional help, and in order to provide you with that, your dermatologist needs you to be completely honest with them. Don’t lie to your dermatologist or leave out even seemingly minor details, as they could impact the recommendations for care that you receive.

Allen-Taintor Dermatology is here to provide you with personalized dermatology services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you keep your skin healthy and happy.

As helpful as many medications are for managing various conditions, there’s always the risk of side effects. For example, Lamictal, used as an anti-seizure medication and also to treat bipolar disorder, carries with it the risk of a skin rash. This rash is rarely serious and typically stops when medication is stopped. 

This can be a tricky situation, because the very medication that is treating one issue can cause others. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you should stop taking medication, especially if what it is treating is serious. A dermatologist may be able to help you manage skin issues that result as a side effect from medications you are taking.

If you have any concerns about side effects from medications that you are taking and you want to know about the various options available to you, consult with your doctor. Based on your medical history and needs, they will be able to make appropriate recommendations. In the meantime, your dermatologist may be able to help you manage skin issues. 

What Medications Can Cause Skin Issues?

Remember when it comes to side effects from medications that everyone is different. Just because one person experienced skin issues on a medication doesn’t mean that someone else taking the same medication will also experience those same skin issues. While some side effects are common, others are very rare. Your doctor should advise you on what side effects you can expect to experience when going on medication.

Medications that can cause skin issues include: 

• Anti-seizure medications
• Blood pressure drugs
• Acne medications
• Antihistamines
• Cholesterol medications
• And more

If you are taking multiple medications together, this can increase your risk for skin issues. If you have thinner skin, such as if you are elderly, you may be at an increased risk for skin complications from medications. 

What Skin Issues Can Result From Medications?

Skin issues that result from taking medications can vary from very mild to severe and life-threatening. Your doctor will consult with you about the side effects from any medications they prescribe and answer any questions that you have. If you experience side effects, they will work with you in order to figure out how to manage them and prevent them from potentially turning into something serious. If your side effects are severe, your doctor may recommend switching medications.

Some common skin issues that can occur as side effects from medications include:

• Dry skin
• Itchy skin
• Rashes
• Photosensitivity
• Acne
• Peeling/flakey/crusty skin
• Reddened or darkened skin
• Swelling
• Blisters
• Skin sensitivity
• Sores
• Hyperpigmentation
• Hypopigmentation
• Bruising easily

Dermatologists also treat hair loss, which can result from various medications and treatments. 

How Do You Manage Skin Issues From Medications?

Your doctor and dermatologist can help you manage skin issue side effects from medications. If your skin issues that result from side effects from taking medication become severe or otherwise unmanageable, talk to your doctor. They will be able to discuss alternatives with you.

That said, here are some common ways to manage skin issues from medications.

Hydration

Hydration is key to deal with dry skin, medically induced or in general. You’ll also want to avoid things that can dehydrate you, such as caffeine and alcohol. In addition to just drinking water, you can get hydration through your diet too, such as with omega-3 fatty acids – a salmon rice bowl, anyone? Applying an ultra-hydrating moisturizer on damp skin can also help to lock in moisture. 

Call Your Doctor

Whenever you are experiencing a side effect from a medication and you’re concerned about it, it’s important to call your doctor. It may or may not be a sign that the medication is not right for you. Regardless, your doctor should know about all side effects you experience from taking medication. Make sure that your doctor knows about all medications and supplements you take.

Your doctor will be able to help you with side effects you experience. They may also recommend working with a dermatologist, as dermatologists are skin experts. If a side effect concerns you, don’t ignore it. Make sure that your medical team knows about it so that they can best help you. 

Are You Having Skin Issues?

Whether your skin issues are the result of side effects from medication or not, Allen Taintor Dermatology is here to help. We treat all sorts of skin problems from acne to skin cancer. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your skin problems and improve your skin’s health.

It’s important to take care of your skin all year round, but on hot days, it’s especially so. Here is what you need to know about some common summer skin problems and what you can do in order to take care of your skin on hot days. 

Common Summer Skin Problems

Unfortunately, there are all sorts of skin problems you may experience during the summer – and heat can exacerbate them. Some of them are as follows. 

Sunburn

Sunburn is the most common summer skin concern. If you get sunburned, it’s important to treat it properly by drinking plenty of fluids and applying cool compresses. If your sunburn is severe, you should seek medical attention. 

Acne

Acne breakouts are another common summer skin problem. This is because the combination of sweat, oil, and skincare or makeup can clog your pores. You’ll need to adjust your skincare routine accordingly for the summer months. Tempting as it may be, don’t pop any pimples that pop up. If your acne bothers you, see a dermatologist for treatment recommendations. 

Dry And Irritated Skin

Summer heat and humidity can dry your skin out and cause it to become irritated. Exposure to the sun or pool water can make the problem even worse. Using gentle skincare products focused on hydration can help. If your skin is painfully dry or irritated, a dermatologist can help you. 

Bug Bites

From pesky mosquitoes to ticks, summer is unfortunately the season where it’s not only brutally hot – the bugs are also out in full force. Wearing bug spray can help deter them, but you may still end up with itchy, swelling bug bites. Cool compresses and over-the-counter antihistamines can help. If you are concerned about your bug bites, you can see a doctor. If you are allergic or something like that, they will be able to help you. 

Heat Rash

Heat rashes happen when your sweat glands are blocked. They can include: small red bumps, itchiness, discomfort, and other such symptoms. Loose, breathable clothing and cool compresses can help while the rashes heal. If they are severe, you can see a doctor for treatment. 

How To Take Care Of Your Skin On Hot Days

Fortunately, there are steps that you can take in order to protect your skin on hot days. Some of the best ways to take care of your skin during the summer months are as follows. 

#1. Wear Sunscreen

Yes, even if you tan instead of burn. Yes, even if you have darker skin. Yes, everyday. You should be wearing sunscreen on a daily basis already – more on this in our previous blog: 4 Important Reasons Why You Need To Wear Sunscreen Every Day. However, most people only wear sunscreen when they’re going on a hike or to the beach.

You should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s at least 30 SPF. It will need to be reapplied every 2 hours in order to continue to protect your skin from the sun. Many people don’t realize that getting tanned from the sun rather than burned is still skin damage. Not protecting your skin from the sun can result in early skin aging, sun damage, and increased risk of skin cancer.

As such, wearing sunscreen is the most important thing you need to do in order to take care of your skin on hot days. 

#2. Adjust Skin Care Appropriately

Many people have to adjust their skincare routines to different seasons, and summer is no different. You sweat more, which can cause makeup and certain skincare products to clog up your pores more easily. You may need to go lighter on your skincare and makeup in order to let your skin breathe and make it easier to clean. 

A dermatologist can provide you with personalized skincare advice so that you can rest assured that what you’re doing is what your skin needs.

#3. Cover Up

This isn’t dissing on tank tops and shorts – we know it’s hot out there! But as great as these clothes are for keeping you as cool as you can be in brutal heat, they leave a lot of skin vulnerable to the sun. If you wear clothes like this, make sure that you’re putting sunscreen on all of your exposed skin and wearing a hat and sunglasses. 

If you’d rather not have to worry about putting sunscreen everywhere, opt for longer, lightweight layers, like a UV-resistant sun shirt. The more your skin is covered, the more protected it is from the sun.

#4. Stay Hydrated

Yes, we know, everyone is telling you to drink water all the time, for XYZ reasons. Isn’t it amazing that one drink provides so many different health benefits? Your skin is no different. One of the best ways to take care of your skin on hot days is to ensure that you’re staying hydrated. This is especially important if you’re going to be out in the heat or if you suffer from dry and/or blemish-prone skin already. 

When you’re dehydrated, your skin is more prone to acne, flaking, and dryness. Drinking enough water helps your skin thrive – as does using hydrating skincare products. 

Ensure Your Skin Is Healthy: Schedule A Checkup

Do you want to be sure that your skin is healthy and that you’re taking proper care of it? While the internet has advice and tips galore, none of that is personalized to you. What works well for one person’s skin may be terrible for someone else. As such, the best way to ensure that you are taking proper care of your skin is to consult with a dermatologist.

Not only can dermatologists advise you on the ideal skincare for your skin’s unique needs, they can also address any skin concerns you may have, such as whether or not you should be worried about that mole. Allen-Taintor Dermatology is here to help you achieve and maintain healthy skin. We treat a wide variety of skin conditions and provide skincare products to fulfill your skin’s specific needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment so you can ensure your skin stays as healthy as possible – or if it needs treatment, it gets it!