Best Dermatologist in Downtown Brooklyn, NY

Dermatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders affecting not only the skin but also the nails, hair and mucous membranes. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in the field of dermatology. And doctors who practice dermatology in Downtown Brooklyn have thorough knowledge of the skin, tissues under the skin and the interaction between the skin and the rest of the body.

Minor skin problems can usually be treated by a primary care doctor, but more complex disorders or conditions that aren’t responding to standard treatment options may need the expertise of a Downtown Brooklyn dermatologist. For more complicated nail, hair or skin problems, book an appointment with one of the best dermatologists in Downtown Brooklyn.

People with health issues sometimes worry about whether their health insurance covers the medical care they need. When it comes to dermatology care, particularly regarding an unusual lesion on their skin that may indicate skin cancer, you don’t need to be concerned, as nearly all health insurance policies cover cancer-related tests and treatments.

Common health insurance coverage accepted by most Downtown Brooklyn dermatologists includes:

• Medicare
• Medicaid
• BlueCross HMO
• MetroPlus
• Fidelis

When you’re ready to book an appointment with a specialist in dermatology in Downtown Brooklyn, check to make sure the doctor you’ve chosen accepts your insurance. Review your policy or check with your insurance provider to find out whether you need a referral from your primary care doctor. Most insurance providers only cover dermatological care if there’s a medical need and don’t cover procedures done for cosmetic reasons.

A surprising number of disorders can affect your skin, many of which stubbornly refuse to improve when treated by your family doctor.

Examples of skin conditions that may need the expertise of a dermatologist in Downtown Brooklyn include:

• Rosacea. Characterized by facial redness, swelling and bumps, this condition is often confused with acne but is treated in a different way. It’s most common in people over the age of 30.
• Acne. Common in teenagers and young adults, acne breakouts can happen all over the body and include blackheads and whiteheads.
• Eczema. Eczema is a common condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. It’s a type of dermatitis, which is a group of skin disorders that cause skin inflammation.
• Psoriasis. Itchy, scaly patches on the skin that are sometimes painful may be psoriasis. Patches of affected skin may be red, brown or purple. There’s no cure, but treatment usually improves symptoms.
• Warts. Warts are growths under the top layer of skin caused by a fungus. Persistent warts may require treatment by a specialist at a Downtown Brooklyn dermatology practice.
• Actinic keratosis. Rough scaly patches on the skin caused by years of sun exposure could point to this pre-cancerous condition. Treatment by your Brooklyn dermatologist can prevent progression to skin cancer.
• Skin infections. Skin infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi. Signs of an infection include itching, rashes, swelling, redness, pus or pain.

When you book an appointment with a reputable Downtown Brooklyn dermatologist, they have the experience needed to diagnose and treat these and other disorders including skin cancer. Many forms of skin cancer are treatable when found early. Other conditions such as liver disease or lung disease may be found by an expert in dermatology because of changes in the skin or nails.

People often think only of skin issues when they think of dermatology, but a top Downtown Brooklyn dermatology practice also provides care for problems with your hair, nails and mucous membranes.

Such issues include a wide range of medical conditions, such as:

• Nail psoriasis. Psoriasis can affect your fingernails and toenails, causing discoloration, abnormal nail growth and pitting.
• Fungal infections. When a fungus infects one or more nails, your nails may become discolored, crumbly, thickened or separated from the nail bed.
• Yellow nails. Nails that have turned yellow may be a sign of disease elsewhere in the body, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lung disease.
• Hair loss. Several different disorders such as autoimmune diseases and thyroid disorders may cause hair loss in both men and women.

Dermatologists are thoroughly trained in many different approaches to dermatological treatments. Both over the counter and prescription medication may help to relieve some conditions. Other conditions may require dermatology procedures such as laser surgery, cryotherapy, electrosurgery or excision surgery.

Simple skin problems like a minor rash can usually be treated by your Downtown Brooklyn primary care doctor.

However, there are some symptoms that indicate you may need to book an appointment with an experienced and knowledgeable dermatologist in Brooklyn, such as:

• Hair loss
• Acne that’s not clearing up
• Rashes that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatment options
• Skin that’s scaly, cracked, itchy or inflamed
• Changes in the shape or size of a mole
• Sore or lump that doesn’t heal
• Unusual changes to fingernails or toenails
• Patch of skin that’s lighter or darker than the rest of your skin
• Flaking or itching of the scalp

Conditions that affect the hair, skin and nails can be painful, itchy and uncomfortable. When the skin or nails look abnormal, it can make you self-conscious. The best dermatologists in Downtown Brooklyn are familiar with the most up-to-date approaches in dermatology treatment and can get you started on an effective treatment plan. If you have concerns about your hair, skin or nails, book an appointment today.