Your Annual Skin Health Checklist: What to Schedule and When

Published On: January 11, 2026

The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on preventive health—and your skin should be part of that plan. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and regular dermatology visits can help detect issues early, manage chronic conditions, and keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

This annual skin health checklist outlines which dermatology appointments and treatments to consider throughout the year so you can stay proactive instead of reactive when it comes to your skin.

Schedule Your Annual Full-Body Skin Exam

An annual full-body skin exam is one of the most important appointments you can make for your overall health. During this visit, a Dermgroup physician examines your skin from head to toe, checking for suspicious moles, lesions, or changes that could indicate skin cancer or other conditions.

Routine exams are especially important for patients with a history of skin cancer, frequent sun exposure, or a family history of melanoma. Early detection plays a critical role in successful treatment, which is why regular screenings are strongly recommended.

For more detail on why consistency matters, read: The Importance of Routine Skin Checks for Early Skin Cancer Detection.

Plan Follow-Ups for Ongoing Skin Conditions

If you manage a chronic skin condition such as acne, eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, the beginning of the year is a great time to review your treatment plan. Skin conditions can change over time due to stress, weather, hormones, or lifestyle factors.

Regular follow-up appointments allow your Dermgroup physician to adjust medications, evaluate progress, and help prevent flare-ups before they become disruptive to daily life.

Explore the full range of conditions we treat here: Conditions Treated.

Think Seasonally About Your Skin Care

Your skin’s needs change throughout the year. Winter dryness, summer sun exposure, and environmental shifts can all affect skin health. Planning dermatology visits with the seasons in mind can help keep your skin balanced year-round.

  • Winter: Managing dryness, eczema, and irritation caused by cold air and indoor heating.
  • Spring: Preparing your skin for increased sun exposure and outdoor activities.
  • Summer: Monitoring sun damage and staying current with skin cancer screenings.
  • Fall: Repairing summer sun damage and restoring hydration.

Consider Preventive and Cosmetic Treatments

Preventive dermatology goes beyond medical care alone. Many patients choose cosmetic treatments as part of their long-term skin health plan. These treatments can help address fine lines, uneven skin tone, acne scarring, and other concerns before they become more pronounced.

If cosmetic care is part of your goals this year, explore Dermgroup services in Cosmetic Dermatology. You can also review common questions on our Cosmetic FAQs page.

Don’t Forget New or Returning Patient Planning

If you’re new to Dermgroup or returning after time away, January is an ideal time to get established. Scheduling early in the year often makes it easier to plan follow-up visits and stay consistent with care.

New patients can review what to expect and prepare for their first visit here: New Patients.

Make Skin Health a Year-Long Priority

Your skin changes throughout your life, and proactive care is the best way to protect it. By scheduling key dermatology visits at the start of the year, you set yourself up for healthier skin and fewer surprises down the road.

Ready to get started? Schedule an appointment with Dermgroup today and begin the year with a clear plan for your skin health.