Remember (not so long ago) when the only option for turning back the hands of time was to go under the knife?
The advances made in skin care technology over the past 20 years are mind-boggling. It seems that every year there are new and improved treatments that make our never-ending quest for lasting beauty more achievable than ever … From Botox to fillers to chemical peels and lasers – there is a smorgasbord of treatments currently being offered up at any local dermatologist’s office. And with the insatiable hunger for flawless skin - women and men alike are swarming their practices in droves.
After all, who doesn’t want to look their best?
Even those of us that prefer the natural approach to skincare are not immune to wanting to put our best face forward and maybe even tricking Mother Nature a bit in the process. I have to admit that (in the past) I too have succumbed to the wiles of medical intervention in the hopes of keeping my skin looking youthful and radiant. And to some degree, the treatments I received from my trusted dermatologist were effective.
That being said, I soon discovered that being at the mercy of doctors and medical estheticians to look my best had much more downsides than upsides. Sure, I want to put my best face forward. But I want to do so in a manner than meets my lifestyle and health objectives. So here’s why I ditched my dermatologist in search of some better solutions for attaining awesome looking skin …
I’m Not a Rockefeller
It’s no secret that the price of most anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatments performed at a doctor’s office or med spa are cost-prohibitive for most people. The average ticket price of a microdermabrasion treatment is about $175 (or more). And because most people will need at least 5 treatments to get their desired results, you can see how quickly the price of beauty adds up. Not to mention the time required to get to the doctor’s office and back, and having to schedule out your appointments (sometimes weeks) in advance. Unless you’re an independently wealthy socialite with little else to do – the luxury of most medical anti-aging treatments is just not a reasonable option. Dermatology is not cheap.
I Want to Avoid Harsh Drugs and Chemicals
I became an advocate for chemical-free cosmetics after experiencing some very severe allergic reactions to many of the popular commercial makeup products. So there is no chance in hell that I will ever allow Botox or fillers to be injected into my skin.
Unfortunately, this is the first course of treatment that many doctors opt for in their anti-aging protocols. In my opinion, this is a potentially dangerous option for anyone concerned about their health – as the jury is still out regarding the long-term risks of injecting your body with foreign substances it cannot assimilate. There are many holistic health professionals who believe that there may be severe autoimmune reactions in some cases.
And regarding the treatment of acne, dermatologists are also quick to prescribe drugs – typically antibiotics … or even worse – Accutane, which is a very toxic drug with a laundry list of warnings and side effects a mile long.
I Found a Better Way
Luckily for us - we don’t have to live the lifestyles of the rich and famous … nor do we need to risk our health to look fabulous and keep our youthful glow. In addition to amazingly effective natural organic products, modern technology in the form of personal machines has landed in our laps and has virtually eliminated the need for outrageously priced medical esthetic procedures.
These amazing devices have leveled the playing field and changed our beauty regimens forever. Treatments that previously could only be performed by a doctor or medical esthetician; we can now do ourselves at a fraction of the cost.
Treatments such as microdermabrasion, light therapy, ultrasonic skin scrubbing and more are now available to everyone - on our own schedule in the comfort of our homes.
When considering the necessity of visiting a dermatologist, it's essential to recognize the vast expertise that board-certified dermatologists bring to the table. Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin diseases, from the common to the complex. For instance, conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema can severely impact a person’s quality of life, and these are often best managed under the care of a medical doctor who specializes in dermatology. Dermatologists are also trained to detect early signs of skin cancer, a critical skill that can be lifesaving. Procedures such as skin biopsies and Mohs surgery are specific to dermatology and are crucial in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers.
For those struggling with hair loss, a dermatologist can offer tailored treatments and advice, ranging from topical medications to more advanced options depending on the cause. Pediatric dermatology is another important sub-specialty, focusing on diagnosing and treating skin conditions in children, who may suffer from various common skin diseases. A dermatologist’s ability to diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of skin issues is unmatched, making them invaluable, especially when dealing with serious or persistent conditions.
Moreover, the field of cosmetic dermatology offers a plethora of cosmetic procedures designed to address age-related concerns such as age spots and other skin imperfections. While many over-the-counter products claim to provide similar results, the precision and effectiveness of treatments administered by a dermatologist are typically superior, ensuring safer and more reliable outcomes.
In conclusion, while there are alternatives for basic skincare and minor cosmetic issues, the expertise of a board-certified dermatologist is irreplaceable when it comes to managing diseases of the skin, performing delicate procedures, and ensuring that your skin remains healthy and vibrant throughout your life.