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Find the Answers to Your Skin Care Questions in Chicago, IL

It’s ironic that the body’s largest organ should also be the most mysterious. We know our skin in a superficial way—how it looks and feels in good times and bad. But many of us have questions about the way skin works, what causes irritation, and what can be done about chronic skin conditions that just won’t improve on their own. At Skin MD, we have answers.

Here, you can learn more about the role of a dermatologist—what we treat, how we treat it, and how often you should come in for a checkup. Informed patients help providers create better outcomes. If you don’t see your question listed below, contact us online or give us a call at 708-636-3767.

Your Questions Answered

Dermatology & Skin Care FAQs

Dermatologists are physicians devoted to the medical and surgical treatment of diseases pertaining to the skin, hair, and nails. In order to be designated as a specialist in dermatology, a doctor must complete at least four years in a certified residency program. That’s on top of completing an initial four years of medical school and several years of undergraduate studies.

Upon completion of their residency, a dermatologist may elect to take an extensive set of examinations given by the American Board of Dermatology. By passing this test, a dermatologist is able to say that they are a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology, or commonly designated as a “board-certified dermatologist.”

Regardless of age, everyone should see a dermatologist at least once a year. Patients who have had skin cancer or who have a family history of skin cancer may need to see a dermatologist more frequently.

Additionally, if you suffer from a chronic skin condition and would like to manage symptoms more effectively, you can benefit from seeing your dermatologist more often each year. Those with hair loss, nail fungus, and other ailments can also seek treatment at a dermatology clinic in Chicago, IL.

Dermatologists diagnose and treat many different conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. The following list includes just a few of the most common reasons for a patient to see a dermatologist.

The amount of payment expected at the time of your visit will depend on the type of insurance that you have and the type of services or treatments provided during your visit. If you have specific questions regarding the cost of your visit, please contact our office for an estimate.
Co-payments vary depending on your insurance plan. Please contact your insurance provider to determine the cost of your co-pay. Co-payments are expected at the time of your appointment.
Should you develop an acute or serious health problem, it is best to go to the Emergency Department of the nearest hospital. The physician on duty can assess the severity of your complaint and take the necessary steps to treat the emergency.
No, most insurance plans and providers won’t cover elective cosmetic procedures. That said, in some cases, the results offered by an aesthetic treatment may qualify as a “medical necessity,” but only in limited cases. To determine if your desired treatment is covered under your current policy, speak to your insurance provider.

At Skin MD, we do everything we can to make the care you need affordable. If you’re interested in tightening skin, reducing wrinkles, or eliminating unwanted hair with laser hair removal, check out our expert financing options today. Also, check our promotions frequently. You may just find a deal on the treatment you desire most!

During your appointment at Skin MD, your dermatologist will examine your skin and discuss any issues you may have. For this reason, it’s important that your skin goes mostly untreated before your appointment.

For the best outcomes, please refrain from applying cosmetics or treating your skin before your appointment. It is generally easier to identify forms of skin irritation or blemishes when skin is presented in its natural, untreated state. Your provider may have additional instructions for you before your visit.

Yes, dermatologists specialize in the health and growth of skin, nails, and eyes. There are strong links between skin health and hair health. Every skin pore is also a hair follicle. Additionally, hair and skin both get their color from a naturally occurring pigment called melanin.

For these reasons, among numerous others, dermatologists are perfectly positioned to help you deal with male pattern hair loss, female pattern hair loss, alopecia, and any other concerns you may have.

The right hair loss treatment for you depends on several factors. Firstly, we need to uncover the cause of your hair loss. Next, we need to take into account the amount of existing hair you have left and your treatment goals. Finally, we may recommend oral, topical, or minimally invasive treatments to nourish hair follicles and promote growth. For the best outcome, several treatments may be combined.

To learn which hair restoration treatment works best for you, call Skin MD in Chicago, IL, today at 708-636-3767.

In most cases, insurance providers will only cover your visit if you received a referral from your primary care physician. If you plan on paying for your dermatology visit out of pocket, you may visit a dermatologist without a referral. In most other cases, the best approach is to speak with your primary care doctor about your concerns.

Can’t Find Your Answer Here? Contact Skin MD Today!

In skin care—especially as it pertains to skin cancer and the management of chronic conditions—you are the first and best line of defense. Educated patients have the best chance of surviving, thriving, and maintaining healthy skin long into their later years.

If you have questions that aren’t answered here, run them by us personally. You can contact us online or give us a call at 708-636-3767. If you have questions related to a certain condition or ailment, make sure to check out our individual service pages for medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, and med spa services.