7 Skin Changes A Doctor Would Never, Ever Ignore

You might already know that dry skin and even an increased prevalence of dandruff are both linked to the colder weather. 

But according to Dr Kevita Bains, a Clinical Lead Aesthetician at Revive Clinic, “While the occasional pimple or dry patch can be normal, there are certain changes no skin expert ever overlooks”. 

Here, she told HuffPost UK the changes she’d never ignore:

1) Sudden dryness 

Again, some dryness can occur naturally. But Dr Bains said that if someone’s skin goes from “normal” to dry overnight, that’s definitely worth investigating. 

“Sudden dryness often signals that your skin barrier has been compromised, which can happen from over-exfoliation or harsh products,” she explained.

“Environmental stress from humidity, temperature shifts, or even prolonged exposure to dry air-conditioning can also pull moisture from the skin faster than it can replenish it.”

If this has happened to you, the doctor recommended “stripping back your routine immediately. Instead of exfoliants or serum with heavy actives, focus on barrier repair using a fatty moisturiser with ceramides and peptides.”

Speak to an expert if the issue persists.

2) Persistent redness

“Redness that won’t settle with time is often a sign of ongoing inflammation,” Dr Bains warned. 

“When the body’s immune response keeps getting triggered, it usually means the skin can’t calm or repair itself without targeted care. The causes could range from developing sensitivity to certain actives to chronic conditions like rosacea or eczema that may need professional evaluation.” 

She said it’s a good idea to implement a non-irritating skincare routine if you notice the change, and added you should see a doctor if it continues. 

3) Rapid ageing 

A sudden loss of volume or the rapid appearance of lines may be a sign you’re too stressed or not getting enough sleep of water, the expert said. 

But, “The number one factor for skin ageing is sun damage, which is why sun protection is the most important thing,” the doctor stated. 

“I recommend SPF30+ at a minimum for all patients, even in the winter.” 

4) Unusual pigmentation

We’re talking about new dark patches or spots here, said Dr Bains.

“While some pigmentation changes are often harmless, others can indicate hormonal shifts ranging from pregnancy or menopause to the use of birth control, which can increase melanin activity and make skin more prone to dark patches”. 

It could also be a sign of melasma, a condition which can make grey or brown patches appear on your skin.

“If unusual discolouration occurs, I advise monitoring any new pigmentation for changes in size, shape, or colour” and speaking to a doctor to rule out skin cancer, she added.

“You should protect your skin from strong sunlight by regular application of SPF and wearing a hat when outdoors for prolonged amounts of time. Benign pigmentation changes typically respond well to targeted treatments at a certified aesthetic clinic.” 

5) Recurring adult breakouts 

If you’re still getting regular acne breakouts well into adulthood, 1) you and I have something in common and 2) Dr Bains said this may “point to something beyond surface-level”. 

She added, “If breakouts are concentrated in certain areas, particularly around the jawline and chin, hormonal involvement or a compromised gut health is likely.” Try eating enough fibre and probiotic-rich foods, she said. 

And a skincare routine including salicylic acid and, for severe acne, benzoyl peroxide, can help too.

6) Slow-healing skin 

If little nicks take longer to heal than you’re used to, Dr Brains said “it’s a sign that your skin’s ability to repair itself is weakened”.

This could be down to anything from a poor diet to dehydration and underlying health issues, like diabetes. 

“If healing remains slow... or if minor wounds show signs of infection, medical advice is important,” she stated.

“Slow healing can sometimes reflect underlying systemic issues worth looking into.” 

7) Texture changes 

Is your usually-smooth skin suddenly bumpy or rough? 

“The most common are a buildup of dead skin cells, dryness, clogged pores or even the overuse of exfoliants,” said the doctor.

“Sometimes, it could be an adverse reaction to certain products or ingredients. Depending on your skin type and the cause, I recommend gentle, chemical exfoliation followed by a suitable moisturiser to hydrate the skin.”