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The question
Be honest: How necessary is a dermatologist? I just turned 30 and am wondering if it's time to visit one. What can they do that I can't do at home?
The answer
Most of us regularly see a doctor for a yearly physical. We'll do the same with our dentists and get our teeth cleaned on a regular basis. Why should your skin be any different?
A dermatologist has the knowledge and equipment to help assess the current condition of the skin, point out areas of concern that you might not be aware of and help aid the skin in recovery from sun damage, scarring, pigmentation and environmental effects, which, if left untreated, can be a lot to deal with down the line. Your skin is a real indicator of what is going on inside your body, so don't wait for a problem to arise. Be pro-active and go in for a skin check up. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Bahar Niramwalla is a celebrity makeup artist and beauty specialist on The Marilyn Dennis Show. Have a beauty question? E-mail style@globeandmail.com .