What Does a Dermatologist Do?
Find out what a dermatologist does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as a dermatologist.
A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair and nail conditions. They are trained to treat all types of skin diseases, from acne to psoriasis to melanoma.
Dermatologists also have extensive training in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of skin conditions. This includes the use of lasers, light therapy, chemical peels, Botox injections, and other procedures.
Dermatologist Job Duties
Dermatologists have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Providing consultations with patients to discuss treatment options, including surgical procedures or other treatments, such as botox or chemical peels
- Performing biopsies to diagnose skin conditions or cancers
- Prescribing medications to treat conditions such as acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema
- Performing procedures such as mole removal or biopsies of suspicious lesions
- Conducting research to develop new treatments for skin conditions including cancer
- Diagnosing conditions such as acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema
- Maintaining accurate medical records regarding patient visits and treatments
- Providing advice about skincare products and applying medication to the skin
- Conducting examinations to assess patients’ health status, including physical exams and taking medical histories
Dermatologist Salary & Outlook
Dermatologists’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the type of practice they have.
- Median Annual Salary: $258,000 ($124.04/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $445,000 ($213.94/hour)
The employment of dermatologists is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.
The need for dermatologists will be driven by the increasing aging population, because older people are more likely than younger people to develop skin cancer and other skin disorders. In addition, the popularity of cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections and chemical peels is expected to increase demand for dermatologists.
Dermatologist Job Requirements
A dermatologist typically needs to have the following qualifications:
Education: A dermatologist is a medical doctor who has completed medical school and a dermatology residency program. To become a dermatologist, you must first complete a bachelor’s degree. A four-year degree in pre-medicine or biology is the most common undergraduate degree for aspiring dermatologists.
After completing an undergraduate degree, aspiring dermatologists must complete a four-year medical school program. During the first two years of medical school, students study basic science courses, such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and pathology. The final two years of medical school are spent in clinical rotations, where students learn to diagnose and treat patients under the supervision of experienced physicians.
Training & Experience: After completing medical school, a dermatologist must complete a residency program. Residency programs are three years long and allow doctors to gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting. During a residency, a dermatologist will work under the supervision of a practicing dermatologist. They will learn how to diagnose and treat patients, as well as how to manage a patient’s care.
After completing a residency, a dermatologist must complete a fellowship. Fellowships are two years long and allow doctors to specialize in a specific area of dermatology. Some common specialties include pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology and dermatologic surgery.
Certifications & Licenses: A doctor must earn their medical license by passing the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination. To qualify, they must submit proof of education, training and experience, pass an exam and give proof of moral character.
A dermatologist must also have a board certification in dermatology.
Dermatologist Skills
Dermatologists need the following skills in order to be successful:
Communication: Dermatologists communicate with patients to explain medical conditions and treatment options. They also communicate with other medical professionals to coordinate patient care. In addition, they communicate with patients to answer questions and provide updates on treatment.
Technical skills: Dermatologists use technical skills to diagnose and treat patients. They use their knowledge of medical science to understand the causes of skin conditions and how to treat them. They also use their knowledge of medical technology to use tools like microscopes and other devices to examine patients.
Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Dermatologists often use empathy to help patients feel more comfortable during procedures and treatment. For example, a dermatologist might explain the reasoning behind a treatment or procedure to help a patient feel more comfortable.
Organization: Dermatologists often have to manage their schedules and the schedules of their patients. They may also have to manage the schedules of their staff and other medical professionals. This requires them to be organized and able to prioritize tasks.
Time management: Dermatologists often have multiple patients throughout the day, so time management is an important skill for them to have. They may need to prioritize which patients need to see first and which ones can wait. This can help them ensure they provide the best care to their patients.
Dermatologist Work Environment
Dermatologists work in a variety of settings, including private offices, clinics, and hospitals. They typically work a 40-hour week, although they may work longer hours to see patients and to keep up with the latest developments in their field. They also may be on call to treat patients with urgent needs. Dermatologists typically work in well-lit, clean environments. They use a variety of instruments and equipment, including magnifying lenses, microscopes, and lasers.
Dermatologist Trends
Here are three trends influencing how dermatologists work. Dermatologists will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
The Use of Technology in Dermatology
The use of technology in dermatology is a trend that is quickly gaining popularity among patients. This is due to the fact that technology can be used to help diagnose skin conditions and provide treatment options.
Dermatologists who are able to utilize technology in their practice will be more successful in the long run, as they will be able to provide better care for their patients. They will also be able to stay up-to-date with the latest research and treatments.
Patient Engagement
As patient engagement becomes more important in healthcare, dermatologists will need to develop skills in this area.
Patients are increasingly looking for ways to be involved in their own care, which means that dermatologists will need to be able to communicate effectively with them. This includes being able to explain complex medical terms in a way that is easy to understand, as well as listening to patient concerns and questions.
A Focus on Prevention
Prevention is becoming an increasingly important focus in dermatology. As people become more aware of the risks associated with sun damage and other skin problems, they are turning to dermatologists for advice on how to prevent these issues from occurring.
This trend is leading to an increased demand for dermatologists who can provide preventive care services, such as skin cancer screenings and consultations about sunscreen and other protective measures. In order to meet this demand, dermatologists will need to develop expertise in prevention-based care.
How to Become a Dermatologist
A dermatologist career path can be rewarding and fulfilling. It’s important to consider your personal goals and interests when planning your career path. Do you want to work in a private practice, or do you prefer the flexibility of working in a hospital setting? Do you want to focus on cosmetic dermatology or medical dermatology?
No matter which direction you choose, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest treatments and technologies. Read journals and attend conferences to learn about the latest developments in dermatology. Network with other dermatologists to exchange ideas and share experiences.
Advancement Prospects
Dermatologists can advance their careers by becoming board certified in dermatology. Board certification requires passing a written and oral examination administered by the American Board of Dermatology. Board certified dermatologists are eligible to apply for leadership positions within the American Academy of Dermatology, such as president, vice president, or member of the board of directors.
Dermatologists can also advance their careers by becoming involved in research. Dermatologists who are interested in research may become involved in clinical trials or basic science research. Dermatologists who are interested in teaching may become involved in medical education. Dermatologists who are interested in public health may become involved in community outreach or advocacy.
Dermatologist Job Description Example
At [CompanyX], we provide our patients with the highest quality of care possible. We are looking for a board-certified dermatologist to join our team and provide medical and surgical care for our patients with skin conditions. The ideal candidate will have experience in the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases, as well as experience performing Mohs micrographic surgery. He or she will be passionate about providing excellent patient care and will be a team player.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive medical and surgical dermatologic care to patients of all ages
- Manage both common and complex skin conditions, including but not limited to acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and cosmetic concerns
- Perform high-quality clinical evaluations, develop individualized treatment plans, and deliver patient education
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the latest developments in dermatology through continued medical education
- Adhere to strict infection control protocols and safety standards
- Serve as a resource for other health care providers within the organization
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives
- Stay abreast of new technology and treatments through literature review and attendance at conferences and seminars
- Foster a positive working environment by demonstrating teamwork, flexibility, and professionalism
- Supervise and train dermatology residents and medical students
- Participate in research studies and contribute to the advancement of dermatologic care
- Perform administrative duties such as charting, billing, and scheduling
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree
- Completion of accredited residency training in dermatology
- Board certified by the American Board of Dermatology
- Active state medical license
- DEA registration
- Current CPR certification
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Experience in a private practice setting
- Experience with cosmetic dermatology procedures
- Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems
- Proficiency in Spanish or another language
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