Here's how to decide, concern by concern, and what to expect from a dermatology consult.
Medical vs cosmetic concerns
| See a dermatologist | An aesthetic clinic can help |
|---|---|
| A mole or spot that's new, changing, bleeding or itchy | Facials and peels for dull or congested skin |
| Painful, cystic or scarring acne | Mild breakouts and blackheads |
| Persistent rashes, eczema or psoriasis | Laser hair removal |
| Hair loss or nail changes | Fine lines, texture and glow treatments |
| Diagnosis when you're not sure what's going on | Ongoing maintenance once a condition is diagnosed and stable |
If you're worried about a mole or skin cancer, see a doctor promptly. CANSA encourages regular skin self-checks and seeing a doctor about any changes (CANSA SunSmart).
Melasma, acne and rosacea
Melasma
Melasma is best diagnosed by a doctor, as other conditions can look similar. Once it's confirmed, many people manage it with daily SPF and a skin clinic's help. Specialist clinics such as Atlantic Dermatology and Laser in Sea Point, Cape Town, offer laser and peel plans for pigmentation. See our melasma routine.
Acne
Aesthetic clinics can treat mild acne with facials, extractions and peels. If acne is severe, painful, scarring or not improving, a doctor or dermatologist can prescribe treatment. Our guide to acne facials for teens has more.
Rosacea
Rosacea causes flushing, redness and sometimes bumps. A dermatologist can confirm it and suggest medical treatment, and some clinics offer gentle treatments for redness. Meraki Aesthetics, for example, lists a Mesoestetic MD Azelan RX Peel for couperose and rosacea (R1 375, Fresha menu checked 19 Oct 2026).
What a consult costs and involves
A dermatology consultation usually includes your history, a skin examination and a treatment plan, which may include prescriptions or procedures. Fees vary and medical aid cover depends on your plan and whether you've been referred, so check with the practice and your scheme first.
Aesthetic clinics often charge for a skin consultation too. On Bliss Clinic, EM Aesthetics Moreleta Park in Pretoria lists a facial skin analysis at R200 and Sublime Skin and Body in Cape Town a skin consultation at R370 (Fresha menus, checked 19 Oct 2026).
Specialist listings on Bliss Clinic
- Dr Ishaan Ramkisson Aesthetic Dermatology (Umhlanga and Ballito, Durban): an aesthetic dermatology practice. Its website lists treatments such as Exilis skin tightening from R550 and anti-wrinkle injections at R90 a unit (checked 20 Oct 2026).
- Atlantic Dermatology and Laser (Sea Point, Cape Town): a skin and laser specialist clinic offering peels and IPL and laser skin treatments. Pricing is by consultation.
Find more in our skin and aesthetics clinics in Durban page.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?
Check with your scheme and the practice.
Can an aesthetic clinic treat acne?
Yes, for mild acne, with facials, extractions and peels. See a doctor or dermatologist for severe, painful or scarring acne.
What does a dermatology consult involve?
Your history, a skin examination and a treatment plan, which may include prescriptions or procedures.
Who should treat melasma?
Have it diagnosed by a doctor first. Many people then manage it with daily SPF, home care and a skin clinic.
Where to book
Dr Ishaan Ramkisson Aesthetic Dermatology
Injectables, skin boosters and Exilis. Prices from R270.
View prices and bookAtlantic Dermatology and Laser
Peels, IPL and laser skin treatments. Pricing by consultation.
View prices and bookDr Mohamed Sacoor, specialist dermatologist
Specialist dermatology in Durban.
View prices and bookCompare more: Skin and aesthetics in Durban · Skin and aesthetics in Cape Town
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Work out your skin type and the treatments and products that suit it.
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