How to choose the best dermatologist in the Raleigh-Durham area.

Posted on: November 23rd, 2025 by Our Team

Why choosing the best dermatologist matters

Selecting the best dermatologist is more than simply finding someone who treats acne or skin cancer. A skilled dermatologist balances medical expertise, cosmetic judgement, and a practice environment that makes you feel comfortable. Skin conditions affect not only your health, but how you look and feel, so you deserve someone who takes a holistic approach. At Essential Dermatology, the emphasis is on the whole patient experience: from diagnosis and treatment to comfort and ongoing care.

Credentials and experience count

Look for a dermatologist who is board-certified and has relevant experience in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Austin Newsome, MD, FAAD, brings more than eight years of clinical experience in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area and the Triad of North Carolina. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree (summa cum laude, salutatorian) in biology, then her medical degree from the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. She completed an internal‐medicine internship at Vidant Medical Center, followed by dermatology residency at East Carolina University/Vidant Medical Center, where she served as co‐chief resident. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Newsome has contributed to research (including on keloids and skin cancer in patients of color) and has published and presented at national meetings. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a member of the North Carolina Dermatology Association.

These credentials show that you’re working with someone trained in rigorous academic and clinical environments, who keeps up with advances in dermatologic science. We can confidently say, Dr. Austin Newsome is one of the best dermatologists in the Raleigh-Durham area.

Range of dermatology services offered

The best dermatologists offer a full spectrum of services, treating everything from everyday skin issues to advanced cosmetic treatments. At Essential Dermatology, patients will find services such as:

• Routine skin health care including mole and skin cancer screenings
• Treatment of medical conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and warts
• Cosmetic options including wrinkle-relaxers (e.g., Botox), dermal fillers (Juvederm, Restylane), lip enhancement, skin rejuvenation (chemical peels, microneedling, PRP)
• Specialized care for hyperpigmentation and hair loss

Having this full spectrum under one roof means you won’t have to visit separate practices for “medical skin” vs. “beauty skin.” Everything is handled seamlessly in one place.

Patient-centered care and communication

When you visit a dermatologist, you deserve more than a quick look and a prescription. You deserve to feel heard, understood and treated with respect. Dr. Newsome’s approach emphasizes thoughtful, collaborative, patient-centered care in an inclusive, welcoming environment. Her core values include faith, family, equality and diversity. She builds strong partnerships with her patients so that treatment plans are tailored and realistic. That means you’ll leave with a clear understanding of your diagnosis, your options and what to expect from treatment.

Why Essential Dermatology stands out

Several features make this practice special:

• The fact that Dr. Newsome leads the practice ensures continuity and personal accountability.
• Because she has both academic and private‐practice experience, she brings a broad perspective and current evidence to care.
• Her research background means she stays up-to-date on modern dermatology issues—particularly skin cancer across diverse skin types and keloid pathogenesis.
• The practice is located conveniently for the Triad region while still serving the greater Raleigh-Durham area, offering access for patients seeking top-tier care.
• The website emphasises both medical and cosmetic dermatology equally, which is a positive sign: the practice acknowledges that skin health and aesthetic concerns go hand in hand.

Questions you should ask at your first visit

Before you commit, consider asking questions like:

• Are you board-certified in dermatology? How many years have you practiced?
• Do you handle both medical and cosmetic procedures, or refer out cosmetic treatments?
• How do you approach a condition like acne (or other condition you have)? What are the short- and long-term steps?
• What are the risks and benefits of the cosmetic treatments you’re recommending?
• How do you handle skin cancer screening and mole monitoring?
• What is your philosophy about patient communication and follow-up?

Essential Dermatology’s website makes it easy to review Dr. Newsome’s background and the services offered. Because you have access to this transparency, you can move into your first visit with confidence.

How to move forward

Schedule a dermatology appointment today with Essential Dermatology. Prepare by writing down your relevant medical history, current skin concerns and a list of questions. Being prepared helps you get the most from your visit. Over time, building a relationship with your dermatologist will pay dividends for both skin health and appearance.