Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about skin, hair and nail care, treatments and appointments. For advice about your own skin, please book a consultation.
Clinic, location and contact
Where is Dr. Lasi's Skin & Hair Clinic?
The clinic is on Palace Road, opposite Kerala Bank, Mankave (Mankavu), Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala 673007. Use the Google Maps link on the contact page for directions.
How can I contact the clinic?
Call +91 81398 82226, send a WhatsApp message to the same number, or email drlasisskinclinic@gmail.com. You can also send an enquiry through the contact page.
Which treatments are available?
The clinic offers clinical dermatology for conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, infections and vitiligo, along with laser treatments, pigmentation and anti-ageing treatments, hair fall treatment, PRP and FUE hair transplantation. See the treatments page for the full list.
Do patients come from outside Calicut?
Yes. Patients visit from Kozhikode and from other parts of Malabar. Many treatments need a few visits, so please ask about the expected number of sessions when you book.
Dermatology consultations
What does a dermatologist treat?
A dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in conditions of the skin, hair and nails. This includes acne, pigmentation, eczema, allergies, psoriasis, infections, vitiligo, hair loss and nail problems, as well as cosmetic concerns such as scars, ageing skin and unwanted hair.
What happens at my first consultation?
The doctor will ask about your concern, your medical history and the products and medicines you use, then examine your skin, hair or nails. Some conditions need tests. You will then discuss a treatment plan, how long it may take and what results to expect.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring a list of your current medicines and skincare products, previous prescriptions and any recent blood test reports. If possible, come without makeup when the concern is on your face.
How many sessions will my treatment need?
It depends on the treatment and your skin. Medical treatment of conditions such as acne or hair fall is reviewed every few weeks, while procedures such as peels and lasers are usually done as a course of sessions. Your doctor will give you an estimate at the consultation.
Do you treat children?
Yes. Children's skin conditions such as eczema, birthmarks, warts and infections can be assessed. Please mention the child's age when booking.
Acne and acne scars
Can acne be cured completely?
Acne can be controlled very well with the right treatment, and many people stop getting breakouts over time. Some people need ongoing maintenance, especially during hormonal changes. Treating early also reduces the risk of scars.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Most acne treatments take 6–12 weeks to show clear improvement. It is important to keep using them as prescribed and not stop as soon as the skin starts to improve.
Can acne scars be removed?
Scars can be improved significantly, though rarely erased completely. Options include chemical peels, microneedling with radiofrequency (MNRF), fractional CO2 laser and subcision. The best choice depends on the type of scar and your skin, and active acne should be controlled first.
Should I pop my pimples?
No. Squeezing pushes inflammation deeper and increases the risk of dark marks and permanent scars.
Hair loss
How much hair fall is normal?
Losing around 50–100 hairs a day is normal. If you notice a sudden increase, a widening parting, a receding hairline or bald patches, it is worth seeing a dermatologist.
Will I need blood tests for hair fall?
Sometimes. Thyroid problems, low iron, vitamin deficiencies and hormonal conditions can cause hair loss. The doctor will decide which tests are needed after examining you.
What is PRP for hair loss?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses a concentrate prepared from your own blood, which is injected into the scalp to support hair growth. It is usually given as a course of sessions and works best for certain types of hair thinning. Your doctor will tell you if it is suitable for you.
Who is suitable for a hair transplant?
Hair transplantation (FUE) is usually considered for stable pattern hair loss when there is enough healthy donor hair at the back and sides of the scalp. A consultation is needed to assess suitability and expectations.
Pigmentation
Why does my melasma come back?
Melasma is triggered by sunlight, visible light, heat and hormones. Treatment can lighten it, but strict daily sun protection and maintenance treatment are needed to keep it under control.
Are fairness creams safe for pigmentation?
Many over-the-counter "fairness" creams contain steroids, which can cause thinning, redness, acne and worsening pigmentation. Please use only creams prescribed by a doctor.
What treatments are available for pigmentation?
Depending on the cause, treatment may include prescription creams, chemical peels and laser toning, along with daily sunscreen. A dermatologist will first identify the type of pigmentation.
Skin allergies and psoriasis
How do I know if my rash is an allergy?
Itching, redness and swelling where a product, metal or fabric touches the skin may suggest contact allergy. Many rashes look alike, so a dermatologist's examination, and sometimes patch testing, is needed to find the cause.
When is an allergic reaction an emergency?
Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes or throat, difficulty breathing or feeling faint can be signs of a severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency medical care immediately.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is an immune condition and cannot be passed on by touch.
Can psoriasis be treated?
Psoriasis is long-term, but it can be well controlled. Treatment may include creams, scalp treatments, phototherapy and tablets or injections for more severe disease, with regular follow-up.
Laser and cosmetic dermatology
Is laser hair removal painful?
Most people describe a mild snapping or warm sensation. The clinic uses the Reveal Vega diode laser system, which is designed for comfortable hair reduction. Your doctor will explain what to expect for your skin and hair type.
How many laser sessions will I need?
Laser hair reduction usually needs a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart, because hair grows in cycles. The exact number depends on the area, hair colour and thickness, hormones and skin type.
Are lasers safe for Indian skin?
When the right laser and settings are chosen by a trained doctor, lasers can be used safely on Indian skin types. Following pre- and post-treatment advice, especially sun protection, reduces the risk of side effects.
What cosmetic treatments do you offer?
Treatments include chemical peels, carbon peel, laser toning, medifacials, anti-ageing treatment, treatments for scars and stretch marks, mole and wart removal, tattoo removal and hair restoration. See the treatments page for details.
Is there downtime after cosmetic procedures?
It depends on the procedure. Many peels and medifacials have little or no downtime, while lasers such as fractional CO2 can cause redness and peeling for several days. Your doctor will explain this before treatment.
Skincare
Do I need sunscreen indoors?
If you sit near windows or spend time outdoors during the day, yes. Daylight through windows still contains UVA rays, which contribute to pigmentation and ageing.
How many skincare products do I really need?
Most people need only a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and a sunscreen. Add treatment products one at a time, based on your skin concerns.
How do I find my skin type?
Try the skin type quiz in Skin School for an educational estimate. For persistent concerns, a dermatologist can assess your skin in person.
Appointments and timings
How do I book an appointment?
Book online through the appointment page, call +91 81398 82226 or send a message on WhatsApp. The clinic team will confirm your appointment time.
What are the consultation timings?
Consultations with Dr. Lasida Ali are currently held Mon – Sat, 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. Timings can change on holidays, so please call before your visit.
Where is the clinic?
Dr. Lasi's Skin & Hair Clinic is on Palace Road, opposite Kerala Bank, Mankave, Kozhikode 673007. Use the map on the contact page for directions.
Will my appointment request be confirmed immediately?
Online requests are confirmed by phone. If your concern is urgent, please call the clinic directly.
These answers are general information and not a diagnosis. Every person's skin is different, so please book a consultation for advice about your situation. You can also learn more in Skin School and the patient guides.