Recognising Common Skin Concerns: When to Seek Expert Advice

As a private dermatologist in London, I often see patients who have lived with a skin condition for longer than they needed to, either unsure of its severity or overwhelmed by trying to manage it themselves in this ever-growing and often misleading industry.

I know that patients now have access to huge amounts of online health information and while this can be helpful, it also often leads to misdiagnosis and unnecessary worry. That’s why it’s more important than ever to seek an expert opinion early on. Let’s break down the most common conditions I see day-to-day that patients are most frequently dealing with:

Acne

Mild breakouts are common. Currently, the number of adolescents with acne in the UK is actually [closer] to 95% when accounting for people who self-managed their treatment.

The key to treating acne early is to get ahead of any unnecessary scarring, which often occurs due to delayed action when the condition first presents.

When to seek help:

• Painful, deep spots or nodules
• Post-acne scarring or pigmentation
• No improvement with pharmacy treatments

Eczema

Eczema is more than just dry skin- and in the clinic, I often see how much it can impact day-to-day life.

Warning signs:

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Cracked or inflamed skin
• Frequent flare-ups despite moisturising
  
  

Rosacea

Rosacea is commonly misdiagnosed as acne or sensitivity — and worsens without the right treatment. As we approach the height of summer, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of rosacea management, with just a few minutes of sunlight on rosacea-prone skin leading to uncontrollable flushing and redness.

Look out for:

• Persistent redness
• Acne-like bumps
• Flushing that worsens with triggers

Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be uncomfortable, visible, and in some cases linked to joint inflammation.

What to watch for:

• Thick, scaly plaques
• Nail changes
• Joint pain or stiffness
  
  

Moles and Skin Cancer

If a mole is changing, bleeding, or looking irregular, don’t delay look to get your skin checked as soon as possible.

ABCDE signs:

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Colour variation
• Diameter >6mm
• Evolving over time

When to Book In

If you’re unsure or concerned about a skin issue and overwhelmed by all the offerings we’re seeing in the industry today, trust your instincts and get a professional opinion. As a private consultant dermatologist, clarity and reassurance are non-negotiables in Dr Ophelia’s approach. You are sure to leave your consultation with a new found confidence, knowing that you’re on the way to a brighter skin future.