What Your Skin is Trying to Tell You: Everyday Symptoms That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
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Not every rash, mole, or dry patch is harmless — and not every skin concern will “just go away.” As a dermatologist in Cape Town, I see far too many patients who wait months or even years before seeking help for something that could have been diagnosed and treated early.
The truth is, your skin often gives you subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) clues that something deeper may be happening. Here are five common skin signs I see in my practice — and why they shouldn't be ignored.
1. A Mole That’s Changing Shape, Colour, or Size
Any mole that evolves over time needs to be checked. I often use dermoscopy in my Cape Town practice to assess moles with greater accuracy.
🔍 Warning signs include:
- Asymmetry
- Irregular or blurred borders
- Uneven colouring
- A diameter larger than 6mm
- Itching, bleeding, or sudden changes
These may be signs of melanoma, a serious but treatable skin cancer — especially when caught early.
2. Persistent Dry Patches or Flaking
Dryness might seem like a minor issue, but if it persists, especially on your face or scalp, it could be a sign of eczema, psoriasis, or even actinic keratoses — which can be precancerous.
If your skin isn’t responding to over-the-counter moisturisers, it’s worth booking a consultation.
3. A Rash That Doesn’t Respond to Treatment
Red, itchy rashes that don’t improve after a week or two with standard creams could signal a more complex condition — like contact dermatitis, fungal infections, or even autoimmune disorders such as lupus.
In some cases, what appears to be “just a rash” turns out to be something that requires specific prescription care and testing.
4. New Lumps or Growths
I often remind patients that not all skin cancers are dark or pigmented. Skin cancers can appear as translucent bumps, scaly red patches, or pearly nodules. Any new growth that changes, bleeds, or doesn’t heal should be evaluated professionally.
This is especially important for those living in sun-intense areas like Cape Town, where UV exposure significantly increases your lifetime risk of skin cancer.
5. Sudden Hair Shedding or Thinning
Yes, your scalp is skin too — and it tells its own story.
If you're noticing increased shedding in the shower or on your pillow, or patches of thinning hair, it's worth investigating. Early diagnosis of alopecia, hormonal imbalances, or nutrient deficiencies can help us start treatment before permanent loss occurs.
The Bottom Line
When in doubt, check it out.
Ignoring skin symptoms or waiting for them to “clear up on their own” can delay critical treatment and limit your options. As a dermatologist in Cape Town, my goal is to catch skin issues early, treat them with clarity, and give patients peace of mind.
If you’ve noticed changes in your skin — no matter how small — I encourage you to book a consultation or make use of our R490 Scan & Go service for focused mole and spot assessments.
📍 28 Brookdale Avenue, Pinelands, Cape Town
🔗 Book now
Let’s talk about how I can help.
— Dr Altaaf Parker
MBChB (UCT) | FCDerm (SA) Summa Cum Laude | Specialist Dermatologist