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Patient Education

Skin Conditions

Thoughtful evaluation of common skin concerns, with seamless referrals to trusted Los Angeles dermatologists when specialist care is needed.

Most skin problems are common, treatable, and best handled with the right combination of primary care and dermatology expertise. As part of your preventative care in Los Angeles, Dr. Golian evaluates rashes, growths, and persistent skin changes, manages straightforward issues directly, and coordinates a trusted dermatology referral including specialists at Cedars-Sinai when specialist care is the right step.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

  • A new, changing, or asymmetric mole, or a spot that bleeds, itches, or won't heal
  • A persistent rash, redness, or scaling that doesn't resolve with basic care
  • Sudden hives, swelling, or widespread itching, especially after a new food or medication
  • A painful, spreading, or warm area of skin that may signal infection
  • Chronic acne, eczema, or psoriasis affecting comfort, sleep, or confidence

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Sun exposure and a history of sunburns or tanning, raising skin-cancer risk
  • Allergies and sensitivities to foods, medications, plants, or skincare products
  • Genetics and a family history of eczema, psoriasis, or skin cancer
  • Hormonal shifts, stress, and certain medications that trigger flares
  • Underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or diabetes that affect the skin

How Dr. Golian Manages Skin Conditions

Your visit begins with a careful history and a focused skin exam to sort out what's common and benign from what needs closer attention. Many concerns, such as mild eczema, dryness, or minor rashes, can be addressed in the primary care setting with topical treatments and clear at-home guidance.

When a lesion is suspicious, a rash is stubborn, or a condition calls for specialized procedures, Dr. Golian arranges a timely specialist referral to a vetted dermatologist and stays involved through coordinated care. If your skin changes point to an internal cause, she may also check for related issues such as thyroid imbalance or other contributors.

Protecting Your Skin Long-Term

Daily sun protection, gentle skincare, and prompt attention to changing spots are the foundation of healthy skin and the best defense against skin cancer. Dr. Golian builds skin checks into your routine preventive visits so concerns are caught early.

If you have allergies that affect your skin, identifying and avoiding triggers is part of a broader prevention plan tailored to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Can a primary care doctor treat skin problems, or do I need a dermatologist?
Dr. Golian can evaluate and manage many common skin issues directly, including minor rashes, mild eczema, and dryness. When a concern needs specialized testing or procedures, she refers you to a trusted dermatologist and coordinates your care.
2How do I know if a mole or spot needs to be checked?
See your doctor for any spot that is new, changing in size, shape, or color, asymmetric, or that bleeds, itches, or won't heal. When in doubt, it's always worth a quick look, since early evaluation matters most with skin cancer.
3How quickly can I get a dermatology referral?
Because Dr. Golian runs a membership-based Direct Primary Care practice, she can arrange referrals promptly and help you access dermatologists, including those at Cedars-Sinai, in Los Angeles, then stay involved in your ongoing care.
4What can I do at home to keep my skin healthy?
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, gentle fragrance-free skincare, staying hydrated, and avoiding known allergy triggers go a long way. Dr. Golian can help you build a simple routine and review any product or medication concerns.
5Is a sudden rash or hives an emergency?
Most rashes are not urgent, but hives accompanied by swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, or any trouble breathing, require emergency care right away. For non-urgent rashes that persist or spread, reach out to schedule an evaluation.

Concerned About a Skin Condition?

Schedule a visit and Dr. Golian will evaluate your skin and connect you with trusted dermatology, including at Cedars-Sinai care when it's needed.

Schedule a Consultation

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this site is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this site does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance. If this is an emergency, call 911. Mentions of medications, devices, or procedures are informational and not endorsements. Full medical disclaimer.

Some listed indications involve investigational/off-label use. Learn more.