A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in caring for the skin, hair, and nails. Keeping these surface features well is of vital importance, both as a source of good health and also as indicators of potential medical conditions developing inside the body. Dermatological conditions range from relatively minor concerns, such as acne, which mainly affect self-esteem, to potentially life-threatening risks, such as cancerous melanomas. The goal of dermatology is to prevent or reduce the impact of these conditions with proper diagnosis and care.

Dermatologists are extensively educated, completing four years of medical or osteopathic school, a residency in internal medicine and dermatology, and additional years of training in their specialty. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by professional governing bodies. They maintain certification throughout their careers with supplemental training and testing.

What Does a Dermatologist Do?

Dermatologists diagnose and treat a wide range of skin, hair, and nail symptoms and conditions, including:

• Acne
• Birthmarks
• Eczema and other forms of dermatitis
• Hair loss
• Dermatological infections
• Melanomas and other skin cancers
• Mole malignancies
• Nail fungus and other conditions
• Pigmentation loss (vitiligo)
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Varicose-vein issues

They accomplish this through doctor–patient interaction, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, prescribing medications, administering injections, and arranging for specialized medical care. Dermatologists primarily work in private-office settings, though some are based in hospitals. Many are also involved in university-based research programs.

What Types of Dermatologists Are There?

Dermatologists are trained in one or more specialties:

• Cosmetic dermatology: Expertise in aesthetic procedures, such as eliminating wrinkles, age spots, tattoos, and cellulite.
• Dermatopathology: A hybrid specialization of dermatology and pathology involving intensive research into the nature of skin conditions and diseases.
• Medical dermatology: A specialization in the diagnosis and treatment of major skin diseases, which may be related to more systemic health issues inside the body.
• Pediatric dermatology: A focus on skin and other dermatological conditions in children and adolescents, such as acne and birthmarks.
• Surgical dermatology: Expertise in skin surgery, including cancer excisions, scar and mole removals, and laser procedures.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

You should see a dermatologist whenever you experience the symptoms commonly associated with a skin or skin-related medical condition, such as:

• Blistering
• Changes in a mole’s appearance
• Dark spots
• Hair loss
• Hives
• Nail fungus
• Persistent dry, red, or itchy skin
• Rashes
• Severe acne
• Signs of infection
• Skin discoloration
• Varicose veins
• Warts

You may also want to see a dermatologist if you have a family history of autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or scleroderma.

What Can I Expect at My Visit to a Dermatologist?

A visit to a dermatologist will begin like any other medical visit. He or she will conduct a physical exam, ask about the symptoms you’re experiencing, and record your family history. As part of this process, he or she may examine the entire surface of your body – your skin, nails, and hair. Your dermatologist will also ask you lifestyle questions, for example, how much sun exposure you receive, how much care you provide your skin, and what your diet is like.

Your dermatologist may diagnose your condition based on this information, or he or she may order further tests, such as bloodwork, skin or nail biopsies, patch testing, dermatoscopy, or imaging scans, including X-rays and ultrasounds. On confirming a diagnosis, your dermatologist can prescribe medications that are appropriate for your condition and arrange for additional care, such as:

• Chemical peels
• Cryosurgery
• Dermabrasion
• Electrosurgery
• Grafting
• Laser therapy
• Liposuction
• Mohs surgery for cancerous growths
• Mole removals
• Sclerotherapy for veins

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health dermatology team is ready to serve. For more information, contact us at [link].

Dermatologist FAQs

Is a dermatologist a doctor?

Yes. Dermatologists are medical or osteopathic physicians with a four-year medical school degree, an internship, a residency, and, in many cases, additional training in one or more dermatological specialties. Dermatologists are licensed and board certified, can diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and conduct surgical and other advanced forms of treatment.

Do dermatologists perform surgery?

Yes. Dermatologists with specialized training perform several types of surgery, including excisional, Mohs, laser, and cryosurgery. Surgery is an effective means of dealing with a number of common dermatological diseases and conditions.

What is the difference between a dermatologist and an esthetician?

Estheticians are health-and-beauty specialists focused on the cosmetic aspects of skincare. Though there is some overlap in the services they provide with those of dermatologists, estheticians are not medical doctors, and cannot clinically treat patients, prescribe medications, or perform medical procedures including surgery for their clients.