Consultant Dermatologists in London

10 of the most common skin conditions that we see

Skin conditions can have a damaging effect on your mental and physical health, which is why we are here to help relieve any worries that you may have. Your skin is the largest organ in the human body, and the barrier to protect your inner body from outside threats. It is important to understand that not all skin conditions are dangerous or untreatable.

To learn more about the most common skin conditions and how our Consultant Dermatologists can help, read more below.

1. Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can arise anywhere on the skin and is known to be a result of sun exposure, which is why this form of cancer most commonly occurs on the parts of the body more exposed to sunlight. Cancerous cells divide and spread, creating a tumour on the skin. If you suspect that you have skin cancer, you should contact a dermatologist as soon as possible so they can assess you, provide diagnosis and any treatment if required When detected early enough, skin cancer can be successfully treated.

2. Acne

Acne is one of the most common types of skin condition. Many individuals will either have already had acne or will have it in future. This skin condition develops when oil, bacteria and dead skin clogs pores on the skins surface, and most commonly occurs during puberty or during the menstrual cycle. It is possible for acne to be treated by over-the-counter prescriptions, however they do not always work, and so visiting a dermatologist is necessary to ensure suitable treatment is initiated.

3. Eczema

Similar to Acne, Eczema is prevalent in children and teens, however, they tend to grow out of it during adulthood, but it can still develop later in life. Dermatologists can provide medication that can help stop irritation or inflammation that eczema often causes.

4. Psoriasis

Psoriasis occurs when too many cells develop on the top surface of the skin, caused by the immune system. Whilst there is currently no cure for psoriasis, expert Dermatologists can provide patients with treatments including prescribed creams and phototherapy. Another method to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis is to improve stress levels, as stress can negatively impact psoriasis. Whilst the symptoms of psoriasis may appear and disappear intermittently, it is a condition that stays with a person for life.

5. Actinic Keratoses

If you have over-indulged yourself in the sun, you may develop actinic keratoses. These are precancerous lesions characterised by thickened skin that develops when you have had too much sun exposure over time. Because they have the potential to transform into skin cancers, it is sensible to treat them. A variety of options are available including cryotherapy (freezing), surgery, topical photodynamic therapy (PDT), laser or special creams such as Efudix or Aldara.

6. Cyst

Although cysts are unpleasant, they are generally harmless most of the time. Occasionally, they can become painful or infected. We do recommend that you consult a doctor or dermatologist to check whether it is a regular cyst or something more dangerous, so it can be dealt with correctly. You can get more information on cyst removal by visiting our Cyst Removal | Sebaceous Cyst Removal page.

7. Alopecia/Hair Loss

Alopecia is a condition that causes patches of hair to be lost usually on the scalp, but it can also occur elsewhere, such as the beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, and also on limbs. Alopecia can affect any age group and can cause significant stress for affected individuals. Whilst in most cases the hair does grow back, we can also offer a number of treatments to help the process.

Hair loss and hair thinning are a natural part of ageing for both men and women, however, that does not necessarily make it any less upsetting. Our dermatologists can prescribe medication to slow the process down or even reverse hair loss.

8. Moles

Moles are parts of the skin that produce more pigment-producing cells than average. Despite being mostly harmless, moles that change colour, shape and size may display signs of skin cancer. If you notice any changes or simply want the mole removed, our specialist dermatologists can help.

9. Genital skin conditions

Whilst genital skin conditions can be awkward and embarrassing, it is important to consult a dermatologist so that it doesn’t have the potential to get worse. Symptoms including sores, itching, discharge, irritation, thickening of the skin, and more, suggest that you may have a genital skin condition. We recommend that you seek a dermatologist review to assess and treat the issue.

10. Warts & Verrucae

Although warts and verrucae are typically harmless, they can become uncomfortable in certain areas. We offer treatment to remove warts and verrucae if over-the-counter medications are not helping.

Dermatology appointment

If you have a concern about a skin issue, please contact our office and book an appointment with one of our specialist dermatology consultants.

Our skin specialist consultants

Our London-based skin specialists are experts in their field, and all are registered GMC specialists. Our expert team is highly trained in dermatology including the various subspecialist areas, which means that you will receive a highly professional opinion. Our  consultants are trained in:

–         Dermatology

–         Skin cancer

–         Skin surgery

–         Cosmetic dermatology

–         Skin disease

–         Plastic surgery

–         Paediatric dermatology

–         Vulval dermatology

–         Photobiology

–         Sun allergy

–         Mohs micrographic surgery

–         Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

–         Laser skin treatments

–         Plastic Surgery

–        Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Frequently asked dermatology questions

Below are some of the most common dermatology related questions that we receive.

What is a Consultant Dermatologist?

A Consultant  Dermatologist is a doctor who, having won a place on a highly competitive Dermatology specialist training programme,  has undertaken years of rigorous postgraduate medical training to become an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails.

Each of our Consultants is on the GMC specialist register for Dermatology and holds a substantive Consultant post in an NHS hospital.

Why visit a Consultant Dermatologist?

There are 2 main reasons why people visit a dermatologist: (1) A check-up of your skin, in particular, to screen your skin for precancerous or cancerous lesions. And (2) If you have a skin issue such as a rash or a new lesion on your skin. Our Consultants Dermatologists will undertake a comprehensive medical history and examination of your skin in order to formulate a diagnosis and provide you with a treatment plan

How much does it cost to see a dermatology consultant?

For an initial consultation, our fee is from  £285

For a follow-up consultation, our fee is from £225

UK patients

We are able to see both self-funded patients and those with private medical insurance. For patients with private health insurance, you will require pre-authorisation from your insurance provider in advance of your appointment, otherwise, you will need to pay any fees to the clinic on the day. Please check the extent of your individual coverage with your insurer in advance of your clinic visit. Sometimes, insurance providers do not cover all of the costs incurred, in which case you will be responsible for paying the clinic any shortfall.

International patients

If you are an international patient, you can pay for a consultation and treatment on the day. Payments can be taken via most major credit and debit cards, cash, or traveller’s cheques (bring a passport with you). We accept payments from sponsors such as an embassy or your employer as long as a Letter of Guarantee is provided in advance of your appointment.