Topical Treatments & Dermatology Referral

Your visit begins with a careful look at the affected area, a review of your history, and a discussion of what you have already tried. For common concerns such as mild acne, eczema, dermatitis, or fungal rashes, we can often begin a topical regimen promptly and set clear expectations for improvement.

If a lesion looks suspicious, a condition is not responding to treatment, or specialized procedures are required, we move to specialist referral and coordination and arrange dermatology care through our Cedars-Sinai network. We share your records and history so the dermatologist begins fully informed.

Come with the affected skin unmedicated and free of makeup or heavy moisturizer if possible, so we can see it clearly. Bring a list of any creams, washes, supplements, or medications you have used, and note when the issue started and what makes it better or worse.

Photographs of how the area looked at its worst can be genuinely helpful, especially for symptoms that come and go. Reviewing your current medications as part of medication reconciliation also helps us avoid interactions with any new topical or oral therapy.

You will leave with a clear plan: how to apply your topical treatment, how long to continue it, and what improvement to expect. Most topical regimens take several weeks to show their full benefit, so consistency matters more than speed.

We schedule a follow-up to check your progress and adjust the plan as needed. If you were referred to dermatology, we stay in the loop, fold the specialist's recommendations into your ongoing preventive care, and remain your point of contact throughout.