Dermatology

What is Dermatology?

Dermatology is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating conditions involving the skin, hair, nails, and various cosmetic concerns.

What do Dermatologists do?

Medical professionals practicing dermatology are known as dermatologists. They can identify and treat over 3000 conditions including eczema, rosacea, skin cancer, and more. There are four major branches of dermatology: dermatopathology, pediatric dermatology, Mohs surgery, and cosmetic dermatology. Dermatopathology combines traditional dermatology with pathology. This specialty allows dermatologists to evaluate the causes and effects of diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. Pediatric dermatologists still specialize in dermatology, but they are more focused on diagnosing and treating children. Mohs surgery is a branch of dermatology that performs Mohs surgery, the surgery performed to treat skin cancer. Cosmetic dermatologists focus primarily on the aesthetics of the skin by focusing on improving the appearance of the skin. They may perform laser hair removal/therapy, Botox, and more.

Prerequisites

Upon receiving a high school diploma, aspiring dermatologists must earn a bachelor’s degree (including the prerequisite courses for specific medical schools) before enrolling in medical school. Like other medical specialties, aspiring dermatologists must take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) before they can attend medical school and earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.). Both undergraduate and medical school typically takes 4 years each to complete, but the years can vary from person to person. After medical school, graduates obtain a limited license to practice and see patients through supervised internships and residency programs. A required one-year internship after medical school is known as the transitional or preliminary year. During this time, not only do aspiring dermatologists have to work in teaching hospitals/clinics, they also have to complete the USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX Level 3. Dermatology residency is one of the most competitive residency programs, alongside neurosurgery and plastic surgery. It’s a 3-year program where residents can participate in programs focusing solely on dermatologic medicine. Many also pursue a board certification. Although not required, it’s a desirable credential that shows exceptional expertise. Fellowship training is also optional. This training allowed individuals to pursue one of the four dermatologic subspecialties. In short, it takes at least 12 years of education and training after high school to become a dermatologist, including 4 years of undergraduate education, 4 years of medical school, 1 year of internship(s), 3 years of residency, and 1+ years of optional fellowship training.

Salary

While salaries can vary depending on location, the average salary for a dermatologist is well above the national average and ranges from $313,100 to $424,300 annually, with an average base salary of $364,500.