8 dermatologists' secrets

The Mole Story

When it comes to side effects of even the most mundane procedures like removing moles, most dermatologists mention only what's most applicable to the patient, says Dr. Schultz. "Doctors filter out what they think is irrelevant," he says. So your MD may not prepare you for rare side effects, like contracting flesh-eating staph, which, scary enough, can happen. But there's no reason for concern since most side effects are extremely uncommon, explains Dr. Schultz.

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Laser Show

Although dermatologists tout lasers' benefits, they may not mention some important facts that may make you reconsider treatment. For instance, "Laser resurfacing takes longer to recover from than patients expect," says Debra Jaliman, MD, author of Skin Rules and a member of the American Academy of Dermatologists. Anticipate some oozing and skin discoloration following treatment. And your desired results may not actually appear for as many as 10 days, she says. Plus, using lasers on darker skin can cause long-lasting discoloration.

Home Work

It's not all prescriptions and minor skin fixes that can keep your epidermis dandy. Many dermatologists don't tell their patients what they can do outside of the office to help their skin glow. "I like to talk about how diet can contribute to healthy skin," says Dr. Jaliman. Munch on fruits and vegetables and drink green tea because they're good sources of antioxidants, which protect skin from sun damage.

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Great Expectations

"Some doctors exaggerate procedure benefits," says Dr. Schultz. His office tells patients that results are slightly worse than the projected outcome to manage expectations. In other practices, doctors may say all of your wrinkles will disappear after a procedure rather than telling you that 60 percent improvement is more likely, he explains. Before committing to a procedure, be sure that the doctor isn't over-promising on the results. If she guarantees a perfect outcome, get a second opinion.

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Money Maker

Those products at the derm's office? They're sometimes another revenue stream for the doctor. "Not all patients are aware that some derms profit off the products sold in their office," says Dr. Jaliman. Still, many items sold at the office are specially formulated and not available elsewhere, she adds. Before taking out your credit card, do a quick Google search to check if the same product is available for less online.

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Sticker Shock

Some dermatology practices, especially those that offer an extensive list of cosmetic procedures, expect you to pay out of pocket before you file your own paperwork for insurance reimbursement. This type of arrangement is becoming more common because it's difficult for medical practices to deal with insurers, says Dr. Schultz, who asks patients to submit their own claims to insurers. "Patients pay us for our service and get reimbursed by insurance for eligible services," he explains.

Unhappy Returns

Patients who get chemical peels, laser treatments and skin resurfacing may have an unwelcome surprise afterwards. "Many people harbor the cold-sore herpes virus around their lips, and treatments can activate it the same way a sunburn or fever can," says Dr. Bailey. But not all doctors warn patients about this potential complication. While the reaction isn't common, it's best to bring up a history of cold sores to your doctor. That way, she can prescribe cold-sore prevention medication beforehand.

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Training Day

Even if you think you're seeing a dermatologist, it may not be so. "Many 'skin experts' aren't dermatologists, and it makes a difference in your care," explains Dr. Bailey. Becoming a derm requires five more years of training and residency, but it's possible for physicians to focus on skin without the extra work. "It takes this long to become a dermatologist because the skin is that complex," she says. Dig into your doc's background. If she's not a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, a group that counts 98 percent of U.S. dermatologists as members, it should raise a red flag.