Your skin is your body’s largest organ—and its first line of defense. Caring for it isn’t just about appearance; healthy skin protects against infection, helps regulate body temperature, and plays a key role in overall wellness.
From acne and eczema to skin cancer screening, SEARHC offers comprehensive dermatology care in Sitka and Juneau. Our providers diagnose and treat a wide range of skin conditions—focusing on medical necessity, not cosmetic services.
Dermatology Services Available at SEARHC
We offer comprehensive skin care services, focusing on early detection, treatment, and management of a wide range of skin conditions.
Skin Cancer Screening & Biopsy
Full-body skin exams help detect early signs of melanoma and other skin cancers, such as abnormal moles, lesions, or growths. If necessary, a biopsy or excision may be performed to collect a sample for testing and to guide treatment decisions.
Excision of Skin Lesions
Our providers perform minor surgical excisions to remove medically indicated skin lesions—precancerous spots or confirmed skin cancers. Lesions may include abnormal patches or bumps that require removal due to irritation, diagnostic concern, or risk of malignancy. All procedures are recommended based on clinical need and performed with a focus on safety and healing.
Treatment of Chronic Skin Conditions
SEARHC dermatology teams diagnose and treat chronic skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Care plans may include topical treatments, oral medications and lifestyle recommendations to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Management of Nail Disorders
Our dermatology providers evaluate and manage nail conditions such as infections, psoriasis-related nail changes, and other abnormalities. Severe or complex cases may be referred to podiatry for additional support.
Diagnosis & Treatment of Benign Skin Growths
We provide evaluation and medical removal for common benign skin growths, including age spots, skin tags, moles and warts. Removal is performed when growths are bothersome, at risk of irritation or show concerning changes.
Conditions We Help Treat
- Acne: An inflammatory skin condition affecting the face, back and chest. We offer evaluations and treatments to reduce breakouts and scarring.
- Actinic Keratosis & Precancerous Lesions: Rough, scaly spots often caused by sun exposure; important to catch early to prevent skin cancer.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Chronic itchy, dry skin that can flare up from environmental or allergic triggers.
- Hair Loss: Evaluation of common causes including alopecia areata, hormonal changes or scalp conditions.
- Hives & Rashes: Skin reactions caused by allergies, infections or irritants.
- Moles: A common type of skin growth caused by clusters of pigment-forming cells called melanocytes. Changes in appearance can indicate a higher risk of skin cancer.
- Nail Disorders: Including fungal infections, ridging or inflammation. Complex cases may be referred to podiatry.
- Psoriasis: Autoimmune condition causing red, scaly patches, often on the elbows, knees or scalp.
- Rosacea: Redness and small, visible blood vessels typically on the face, often triggered by sunlight, heat or certain foods.
- Skin Cancer: Depending on the type, size, location and stage of the cancer, treatment services can involve surgical removal, especially of basal and squamous cell carcinomas, or topical medications for very early stage or superficial cancers. SEARHC does not perform Mohs surgery.
- Skin Infections: Includes bacterial, viral or fungal infections such as impetigo or warts.
Note: Cosmetic dermatology services are not offered at SEARHC. All treatments are deemed medically necessary and prioritized based on clinical need.
Our Visiting Dermatology Providers
SEARHC’s dermatology care is provided in partnership with the University of Utah. These expert dermatologists provide care in Sitka and Juneau on a quarterly basis.
Next Steps: How to Access Dermatology Services
If you’re concerned about a skin condition or need a screening, see your Primary Care Provider (PCP) to ask about a referral to Dermatology.