9 Signs You May Need to See a Dermatologist

1. Stubborn Acne

Acne is common, but if breakouts keep returning, are painful or filled with pus, or are leaving marks despite over-the-counter products, it may indicate hormonal imbalance, deeper inflammation or infection. A dermatologist can identify the underlying cause, prescribe medical treatments like oral medication or prescription creams and help prevent long-term scarring.

2. Persistent Skin Irritation

Ongoing itching, redness or burning that does not settle within a few days, or keeps coming back, can be a sign of eczema, contact allergy, infection or other skin disease. Rather than just applying random creams, it is safer to have your skin examined so the right diagnosis and treatment plan can be made early.

3. Itchy Hives or Rashes That Will Not Go Away

Hives and rashes that persist for weeks, recur frequently or appear without a clear cause should be reviewed. A dermatologist can assess for allergies, infections, autoimmune conditions or medication reactions and advise on proper treatment and avoidance strategies where possible.

4. A Mole or Patch of Skin That Has Changed

Any change in a mole or skin patch, such as growth, darkening, irregular borders, itching, bleeding or new asymmetry, should be taken seriously. These can be early warning signs of skin cancer. Prompt evaluation allows your dermatologist to decide whether monitoring, biopsy or mole removal is needed.

5. Scars from Acne, Blemishes or Cuts and Scrapes

Scars that are raised, sunken, discoloured or slow to fade can affect both skin health and self-confidence. A dermatologist can recommend treatments such as medicated creams, peels, lasers, injections or minor procedures to improve texture and lessen the appearance of scars over time.

6. Hair Loss and Scalp Concerns

Unexplained hair thinning, widening of the hair part, bald patches or persistent scalp flaking and itching may point to conditions like alopecia, scalp psoriasis or fungal infection. Dermatologists are trained to diagnose hair and scalp disorders and can suggest medical treatments or procedures that may slow or reverse hair loss in some cases.

7. Nail Disorders, Ingrown Nails, Fungus or Others

Changes in nail colour, shape, thickness or texture, as well as painful ingrown nails, can be more than cosmetic issues. They may reflect fungal infection, trauma or systemic disease. Early assessment by a dermatologist helps prevent complications and allows appropriate treatment, including medicated lacquers, tablets or minor nail procedures.

8. Mouth Ulcers

Recurrent or non-healing mouth ulcers, especially if they last longer than two weeks or are painful, can be related to nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, infections or, rarely, oral cancer. A dermatologist or oral specialist can evaluate the lesions and arrange further tests or referrals if needed.

9. Irritable and Itchy Eyes

If the skin around your eyes is frequently red, itchy, flaky or swollen, it may be due to eczema, contact allergy, dermatitis or other skin conditions. Because the eye area is delicate, self medicating can sometimes worsen irritation. A dermatologist can recommend safe treatments and help identify triggers, including cosmetics or eye products.

Conclusion

When it comes to taking care of the skin, some people tend to overlook its importance and assume that certain issues will simply fade over time. However, remember that the skin is the largest organ in the body, and it deserves proper care and attention whenever concerns arise. If you experience one or a few unusual occurrences in your skin, do not ignore your symptoms. Find a trusted dermatologist in Singapore here, and contact us for an appointment today to receive the personalised skin treatment you deserve.