Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care doctor. Sometimes, you may be referred directly to a specialist in skin diseases (dermatologist). Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time with your doctor. For dry skin, some basic questions to ask include:

• What's the most likely cause of my dry skin?
• Do I need tests?
• Is it likely the condition will clear up on its own?
• What skin care routines do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions you have.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you several questions, such as:

• Do you have other symptoms?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• What, if anything, makes your skin better?
• What, if anything, makes your skin worse?
• What medications are you taking?
• How often do you bathe or shower? Do you use hot water? What soaps and shampoos do you use?
• Do you use moisturizing creams? If so, which ones, and how often do you use them?