Common skin conditions we see
Skin is the body’s largest organ and it can show signs of all kinds of things — from straightforward infections to allergic reactions, chronic conditions, and early skin cancer. Here are the most common issues our GPs manage.
🔴 Rashes and dermatitis
Itchy, red, or inflamed skin can be caused by contact with an irritant, an allergic reaction, eczema, or psoriasis. Many rashes need a proper diagnosis before treatment — what works for one type can make another worse.
🌞 Acne
Acne affects people of all ages, not just teenagers. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t working or your acne is leaving scars, a GP can prescribe stronger options including topical treatments, antibiotics, or a referral to a dermatologist.
🦠 Skin infections
Bacterial infections like cellulitis and impetigo, fungal infections like tinea, and viral infections like warts or molluscum often need prescription treatment to clear properly. Don’t wait and hope — infections can spread.
🔵 Eczema and psoriasis
These chronic skin conditions flare up and settle, but can significantly affect quality of life when they’re active. A GP can help with prescription creams, management plans, and referrals when needed.
🕶️ Sun damage and keratoses
Rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin are often solar keratoses — a sign of accumulated UV damage that can sometimes progress to skin cancer. These are common in Queensland and worth getting assessed.
🔬 Moles and lesions
Most moles are harmless, but new moles, moles that change, or anything that bleeds, itches, or looks different from your others needs to be checked. When in doubt, come in — it’s a quick check that can genuinely save your life.
Skin cancer — why it matters here more than almost anywhere
Australia has the highest global incidence of melanoma, and Queensland is considered the skin cancer capital of the world, with rates around 40% higher than the national average. Living on the Gold Coast means year-round UV exposure, outdoor lifestyles, and often fair skin — a combination that makes regular skin checks essential, not optional.
In 2025, it’s estimated that 17,443 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in Australia, and a person’s risk of being diagnosed with melanoma by age 85 is around 1 in 19. The good news is that melanoma caught early is highly treatable. The challenge is it often looks unremarkable in the early stages — which is exactly why a trained eye makes all the difference.
How to check your own skin — the ABCDE rule
Get familiar with your skin so you notice when something changes. The ABCDE rule is the standard guide for spotting a mole that needs attention.
The ABCDE rule for moles
- Has changed in size, shape, or colour
- Bleeds without being knocked or scratched
- Itches persistently
- Looks different from your other moles
- Is new and appeared after age 40
- Has an uneven surface or crusty appearance
Full skin checks at Southport Metro
Our GPs are accredited by the Skin Cancer College of Australasia, which means they have completed specialist training in skin cancer detection and management — well beyond standard GP training. Full skin checks are available from $100, with a Medicare rebate of $43.90.
A full skin check involves a head-to-toe examination of your skin using a dermatoscope — a device that lets your GP see detail beneath the skin surface that the naked eye can’t pick up. It takes around 20 to 30 minutes and is a very worthwhile investment, especially if you’ve spent a lot of time in the Queensland sun.
If anything looks suspicious, your GP can arrange a biopsy, remove the lesion onsite, or refer you for further investigation depending on what’s found.
Learn more about our skin cancer clinic →
How often should you get a skin check?
As a general guide: once a year if you’re over 40, fair-skinned, or have a history of sun exposure or previous skin cancers. More frequently if you’ve had a previous melanoma or have a strong family history. At least once if you’ve never had one — there’s no bad time to start.
Between professional checks, do a self-check at home every few months. Good lighting, a full-length mirror, and a hand mirror for hard-to-see spots. Ask a partner to check your back and scalp.
What can our GPs do for skin conditions?
Our GPs manage a wide range of skin concerns onsite, including:
- Full skin cancer checks with dermatoscopy
- Biopsy and minor surgical removal of lesions onsite
- Diagnosis and treatment of rashes, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis
- Prescription treatments for acne, infections, and chronic skin conditions
- Assessment and treatment of solar keratoses
- Referral to a dermatologist for complex or specialist cases
- Ongoing management for chronic skin conditions
Related services at our clinic
Overdue for a skin check?
Open 7 days at Australia Fair Metro, Southport. No referral needed — book online or just walk in.