Signs you need a dermatologist, not a salon

Plenty of skin and hair conditions look cosmetic but are actually medical. The distinction matters because salons can't prescribe, diagnose, or treat them. Here are six signs it's time to book a proper consultation.

1. Acne that persists past 3 months and leaves marks

Salon facials manage the surface. They don't treat underlying acne. If yours lasts longer than 3 months despite basic skincare, or leaves dark marks and scars, see a dermatologist.

2. Hair loss beyond normal shedding

100 hairs a day is normal. Clumps in the shower drain, a receding hairline, visible scalp through your hair, or patchy bald spots — that's medical.

3. Any mole that's changing

The ABCDE rule — Asymmetry, irregular Border, Colour change, Diameter growing, Evolution. Any changing mole warrants a check. Early skin cancer is highly treatable; late is not.

4. Pigmentation that won't fade

Dark patches holding steady for 3+ months despite sunscreen and basic skincare need assessment. Melasma, PIH, and sun spots need different treatments, and a salon can't tell them apart.

5. Rashes that stick around

Anything lasting more than 2–3 weeks, spreading, or accompanied by fever or pain. Eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections all get misdiagnosed at home.

6. Any unexplained skin change

New bump, new discolouration, texture change, lesion you can't explain. The cost of a consultation is vastly less than the cost of a late diagnosis.

Where salons are fine

Monthly facials, threading, basic hair cuts, non-medical waxing. Cosmetology for mood and maintenance has real value. The line is: anything that persists, worsens, or spreads needs a dermatologist.