What Does a Dermatologist Do?
Dermatologists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails, ranging from acne and eczema to skin cancer and autoimmune disorders. They perform surgical and cosmetic procedures and develop treatment plans for both medical and aesthetic concerns. Dermatologists work in private practices, hospitals, and academic medical centers.
Dermatologist Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of a dermatologist include:
- Examine patients skin, hair, and nails to diagnose conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
- Perform skin biopsies and interpret pathology results to determine the nature of skin lesions.
- Prescribe topical and systemic medications for conditions including acne, rosacea, and fungal infections.
- Perform surgical procedures such as excision of skin cancers, cyst removal, and Mohs micrographic surgery.
- Administer cosmetic treatments including Botox injections, dermal fillers, chemical peels, and laser therapy.
- Conduct full-body skin examinations to screen for melanoma and other types of skin cancer.
- Develop treatment plans for chronic skin conditions and monitor patient response over time.
- Educate patients on sun protection, skin care routines, and early signs of skin cancer.
- Collaborate with oncologists, rheumatologists, and allergists on cases involving systemic disease with skin manifestations.
- Supervise dermatology residents, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners in clinical settings.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed as a dermatologist, you will need the following skills and qualifications:
- Dermatologic examination and diagnosis
- Skin biopsy and surgical techniques
- Dermatopathology interpretation
- Cosmetic procedure administration
- Laser and light-based therapy
- Patient education and counseling
- Chronic disease management
- Clinical research and evidence-based practice
Education and Training
Dermatologists must complete four years of undergraduate education, four years of medical school, a one-year internship (usually in internal medicine or surgery), and a three-year dermatology residency program. Residency programs are among the most competitive in medicine. Board certification through the American Board of Dermatology requires passing a comprehensive written examination. Many dermatologists pursue additional fellowship training in areas such as dermatopathology, Mohs surgery, pediatric dermatology, or cosmetic dermatology.
Salary and Job Outlook
Average Salary: $300,000 - $450,000 per year
The demand for dermatologists is strong and expected to grow over the next decade. Rising rates of skin cancer, the aging population seeking treatment for age-related skin conditions, and growing interest in cosmetic dermatology procedures all drive demand. There is a significant shortage of dermatologists, particularly in rural areas, leading to long patient wait times in many regions. Teledermatology is emerging as a way to expand access to care.