Dermatology

Your skin is part of your identity as well as being a vital organ, so skin problems can cause severe psychological distress in addition to being uncomfortable, painful, or, in some cases, life-altering. If you have a skin problem, Linda Clark, NP, based in Newport Beach, California, can help. She offers virtual care for patients living in California, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, and Virginia. She has considerable skills and experience in many areas of medicine, including dermatology. Whether you have acne or eczema or you’re worried about skin cancer, call the offices of Linda Clark, NP, or request a telehealth appointment online today. 

What is dermatology?

Dermatology is the part of medicine that deals with the health of your skin. Dermatologists treat hair and nail conditions as well.

Skin is the body’s largest organ. It protects you from invading bacteria and viruses while making sure you don’t get too hot, cold, wet, or dry. Your skin is continually repelling attacks of one kind or another, so it’s not surprising that many different problems could affect your skin.

In addition to the conditions that directly affect your skin, dermatology concerns the care and protection of your skin. Cleansing, moisturizing, and preventing signs of aging are all areas that dermatology includes.

What conditions does dermatology include?

Dermatology covers every type of skin, hair, or nail condition. Some skin conditions aren’t harmful but more of an aesthetic concern, like rosacea, birthmarks, melasma, and other areas of unwanted forms of pigmentation.

There are also fungal infections that can affect the skin, like athlete’s foot and ringworm, viral infections like herpes and warts, and contagious skin diseases like impetigo. Some of the skin conditions Linda treats include:

• Acne
• Eczema
• Dandruff
• Dermatitis
• Skin allergies

Dermatology also deals with the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

What is skin cancer?

It’s one of the most widespread types of cancer and can be fatal, but skin cancer is also highly treatable if you get a prompt diagnosis.

Skin cancer typically develops because of prolonged or excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. You can also overexpose your skin to ultraviolet light if you use tanning beds. 

The most aggressive skin cancer is malignant melanoma. It typically develops from an existing mole, making it change in appearance or start bleeding or itching. If you spot a mole that looks like it’s changing in any way or you see a new lesion developing, you should schedule a visit with Linda without delay.

If Linda suspects you have melanoma, she can take a sample of the lesion or remove it entirely before it gets a chance to spread.

For all your dermatology needs, from rashes to skin cancer, Linda provides expert care. She can also refer you to a specialist if your skin condition requires in-depth assessment.

Call the office of Linda Clark, NP, or request a telehealth dermatology appointment online today.