Ever wonder what a dermatologist would do for common skin concerns? From stubborn breakouts to dryness, many people deal with symptoms they try to manage on their own without knowing what is helping or making things worse. In our “What Would My Dermatologist Do?” series, Dr. Fricke answers common skincare and dermatology questions with expert insight, practical tips, and guidance on when it may be time to seek professional care.
Skin Concern: I am still getting acne as an adult.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
Adult acne is extremely common. A dermatologist would first look at the type of acne you have, where it appears, your hormone history, stress levels, medications, and your current skincare routine.
Treatment may include prescription topical medications and cleansers. If breakouts are deeper and cystic, your dermatologist may discuss oral medications like spironolactone, certain birth control options, isotretinoin (Accutane), or oral antibiotics. They may also recommend in-office treatments such as chemical peels.
Most importantly, your dermatologist would help create a routine that treats acne without over-drying or irritating your skin.
Skin Concern: My skin feels dry even after I moisturize.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
If your skin still feels dry after moisturizing, a dermatologist would look beyond hydration alone. Persistent dryness can happen when the skin barrier becomes damaged from over-exfoliating, harsh cleansers, weather changes, aging, or underlying skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Your dermatologist would likely review your skincare products and simplify your routine if needed. They may recommend switching to fragrance-free cleansers, richer barrier-repair moisturizers, or products containing ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. In some cases, prescription creams may be necessary to calm inflammation and restore the skin barrier.
They may also evaluate whether something you are using daily is actually contributing to the dryness without you realizing it.
Skin Concern: I am using sunscreen and covering my dark spots, but they keep getting darker.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
Dark spots that continue to deepen despite sunscreen can be caused by ongoing inflammation, hormonal changes, visible light exposure, or melasma, which can be especially stubborn.
A dermatologist would identify the type of pigmentation you have and determine what is triggering it. They may recommend a tinted mineral sunscreen containing iron oxides, since visible light can worsen certain pigment conditions. Treatment options could include prescription lightening creams, retinoids, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, chemical peels, or laser treatments depending on your skin type and diagnosis.
Your dermatologist would also make sure your skincare products are not unintentionally irritating the skin and worsening discoloration over time.
Skin Concern: My skincare is suddenly irritating my skin.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
When products that once felt fine suddenly start burning, stinging, or causing redness, it often means the skin barrier has become compromised. A dermatologist would review all of the products you are using, including active ingredients like retinoids, acids, benzoyl peroxide, and vitamin C.
They may recommend temporarily stopping potentially irritating products and switching to a simple barrier-repair routine while the skin heals. In some cases, irritation may actually beallergic contact dermatitis, rosacea, eczema, or another skin condition that requires medical treatment.
A dermatologist can help identify which ingredients your skin may no longer tolerate and guide you toward products better suited for your skin’s current needs.
Skin Concern: I am experiencing more hair shedding than usual.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
Increased hair shedding can happen for many reasons, including stress, illness, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid issues, medications, or genetic hair loss. A dermatologist would begin by asking when the shedding started, whether it is diffuse or patchy, and whether there have been recent health or lifestyle changes.
They may perform a scalp examination, review your medical history, and sometimes order bloodwork to look for contributing factors. Depending on the cause, treatment could involve topical medications, oral therapies, nutritional support, or in-office procedures that improve hair growth.
Early evaluation is important because some forms of hair loss respond best when treated promptly.
Skin Concern: My skin is constantly oily, and I can’t get my makeup to stay on.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
Excess oil production can be influenced by genetics, hormones, climate, stress, and even overly harsh skincare products that trigger the skin to compensate by producing more oil.
A dermatologist would evaluate your skin type and current routine to determine whether your products are helping or worsening the issue. Treatment may include topical retinoids, salicylic acid, niacinamide, or prescription medications that help regulate oil production. They may also recommend lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens that support the skin barrier without feeling greasy.
In some cases, balancing the skin rather than aggressively drying it out can significantly improve both oiliness and makeup wear.
Skin Concern: Wearing face sunscreen makes me break out.
What would my dermatologist do?
Dr. Fricke:
Not all sunscreens work well for acne-prone skin, and some formulas may clog pores or irritate sensitive skin. A dermatologist would help identify whether your breakouts are caused by certain ingredients, heavy textures, fragrances, or simply using a product that is not suited for your skin type.
They may recommend lightweight, non-comedogenic, oil-free, or mineral-based sunscreens designed specifically for oily or acne-prone skin.
Your dermatologist may also review the rest of your skincare routine, since layering multiple products underneath sunscreen can sometimes contribute to congestion and breakouts.
Talk to a Dermatologist
While online advice and trending skincare products can be helpful, every person’s skin is different. The best way to address ongoing concerns is with personalized recommendations based on your skin type, symptoms, and goals. If you are dealing with a skin concern that is not improving or simply want expert guidance on your skincare routine, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to discuss the best options for your skin.