When a dermatologist comes first
If any of the following applies, see a dermatologist before booking skin care. If you come to us with one of these, we will not start a course — we will point you to a hospital instead. Covering up something that needs a diagnosis only loses time.
- A rash that may be fungal — one that spreads in a ring or itches badly.
- A mole that has changed shape, colour or size, or one that bleeds.
- Deep, painful cystic acne. It may be at the stage where prescription treatment is needed.
- Hives or a sudden allergic reaction with no obvious cause.
- Pain that comes first and blisters that follow, as with shingles.
- A wound that will not heal or keeps weeping.
When skin care is enough
- Small bumps, mild inflammation and clogged pores.
- Marks left by acne. If they are marks rather than scars, time fades them and care shortens that time.
- Pigmentation darkened by the sun, and dull, uneven tone.
- Skin that is dry and oily at the same time — common in Hanoi's climate.
- Hair removal, gentle exfoliation and regular maintenance.
What the first visit checks
The first visit starts with a skin analysis, and you are told first whether care is enough.
When it is unclear, we will suggest you see a hospital first rather than recommend a course. Hanoi has places where you can be seen in English, as well as hospital dermatology departments. Wherever you go, once you have a diagnosis, any care that follows is planned around it.
Choosing a dermatologist in Hanoi
If you need to be seen, check the following before deciding where to go.
- Whether you can be seen in English. You need to describe your symptoms, medication and allergies accurately for the diagnosis to be accurate.
- Whether it is a hospital dermatology department or a place focused on cosmetic procedures. Infections, allergies and changing moles need a diagnosis first, and that is a hospital department's job.
- Whether you can take the diagnosis and prescription away with you. It is useful when planning any care afterwards.
- How booking works and how long the wait is. Many places are busy in the evenings and at weekends, so check ahead.
Care after a hospital visit
Some care can go ahead while you are using prescribed treatment, and some needs to pause. If you are on a retinoid or oral medication, the timing of exfoliation and laser is adjusted.
When you book, tell us what you are taking and what you put on your skin, and that sets what can be done safely on the day. Photos of the products are fine.
Problems that start after moving here
Many people develop skin trouble here that they never had at home. Humidity and sweat, motorbike exhaust and strong sun all year round add up. Most of it settles with care and changes in habit — but if anything on the list above applies, change the order and see a dermatologist first.
How the climate changes your skin is covered in a separate guide.