What is dermatology?
Dermatology is the specialised field of medicine focused on the skin, the body’s largest organ. It addresses both medical and aesthetic concerns, including skin diseases, cosmetic procedures, and preventive care. The field covers medical management, surgical interventions, and cosmetic treatments for conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails.
What is a dermatologist?
Your skin is the body’s largest and heaviest organ, serving several vital functions. It protects you from heat, cold, germs, and harmful substances. It also reflects your overall health, as changes in its colour or texture may indicate an underlying medical condition. Proper skin care and awareness of skin health are therefore important.
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the care of:
- Skin
- Hair
- Nails
They are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails, and can also manage cosmetic concerns such as hair loss, scarring, and other related disorders.
What does a dermatologist do?
Dermatologists are responsible for managing a wide range of conditions, including:
- Diagnosing and treating skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis
- Detecting and managing skin cancers and pre-cancerous lesions
- Performing surgical procedures such as mole removal, biopsies, and excisions
- Conducting cosmetic treatments including chemical peels, laser therapy, and Botox injections
- Advising patients on skincare routines, sun protection, and preventive measures
Types of dermatology
The main branches of dermatology include:
- Medical dermatology: Diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases
- Surgical dermatology: Procedures including excisions, skin grafts, and mole removals
- Cosmetic dermatology: Treatments for aesthetic concerns such as scars, pigmentation, and ageing
- Paediatric dermatology: Specialises in skin conditions affecting infants and children
- Dermatopathology: Microscopic study of skin disorders for accurate diagnosis
Dermatological examinations and procedures
- Dermoscopy: Handheld dermatoscope with magnification and light used to examine and diagnose skin lesions.
- Microbiology samples: Swabs taken from oozing or infected skin lesions for bacterial or viral culture testing.
- Skin scraping: Superficial skin collected using a sterile scalpel blade for microscopic examination of fungal infections.
- Skin biopsy: Small skin sample removed under local anaesthetic for laboratory analysis; includes shave, punch, or excision biopsy. Used for diagnosing cancers and other skin disorders.
- Intralesional steroid injection: Steroids injected directly into skin lesions to treat conditions such as keloids, cystic acne, vitiligo, and alopecia.
- Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to narrowband ultraviolet (UV) light used to treat eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, and chronic itching conditions.
Common dermatologic conditions
Common skin conditions include:
- Skin cancer
- Warts
- Skin infections: fungal, viral (for example, herpes simplex), and bacterial infections
- Dermatitis: around one in six children develop atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Psoriasis
- Acne: a common condition affecting adolescents worldwide
- Hand dermatitis: caused by repeated exposure to detergents and household chemicals, commonly seen in homemakers and individuals with frequent wet work
- Alopecia (hair loss): an autoimmune condition affecting approximately 2% of the global population
When should you see a dermatologist?
Consult a dermatologist if you experience:
- Persistent acne, rashes, or skin irritation that does not improve with over-the-counter remedies
- Sudden changes in moles or new skin growths
- Hair loss or scalp problems
- Nail infections or unusual changes
- Skin allergies, pigmentation issues, or premature signs of ageing
Difference between dermatologist and aesthetician
| Basis of comparison | Dermatologist | Aesthetician |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Medical degree (MBBS plus dermatology specialisation) | Diploma or certificate in skincare |
| Scope | Diagnosis and treatment of medical, surgical, and cosmetic skin conditions | Cosmetic skin treatments only |
| Prescriptions | Can prescribe medication and perform surgeries | Cannot prescribe medication |
| Procedures | Surgical, medical, and advanced treatments | Facials, peels, and basic skincare procedures |
How to become a dermatologist
The pathway to a career in dermatology includes:
- Complete MBBS: Obtain a recognised medical degree
- Postgraduate specialisation: Pursue MD or DNB in dermatology
- Residency/Internship: Gain hands-on experience in dermatology departments
- Certifications and training: Attend workshops, conferences, and advanced dermatology courses
- Practice: Work in hospitals, clinics, or establish a private practice
Conclusion
Dermatology is a dynamic and rewarding medical speciality, offering opportunities in medical, surgical, and cosmetic skin care. A career in dermatology requires rigorous study, continual learning, and practical experience. For those seeking to enhance professional resources, a loan for professionals or healthcare finance can provide essential financial support, including loans for doctors tailored to individual needs.
