The question of what color scrubs dermatologists wear is complicated by the fact that many physicians in this specialty do not wear scrubs for their daily practice. Unlike professionals in hospital-based medicine or general surgery, the attire of a dermatologist varies significantly depending on the setting and the type of patient care being provided. The uniform shifts from traditional medical clothing to professional dress, reflecting the different environments in which dermatologists operate.
Attire in Standard Dermatology Practice
In the common outpatient clinic or private office setting, where dermatologists manage general skin conditions, conduct skin cancer screenings, and perform non-surgical cosmetic treatments, the preferred attire is typically business or professional clothing. This choice helps project an image of professionalism and competence to the patient population. Studies show that a majority of dermatology patients prefer their physician to wear professional attire, often supplemented by a white coat.
Dermatologists often limit their exposure to bodily fluids in the standard examination room, reducing the practical necessity for scrubs as a protective barrier. Wearing a traditional white coat over professional clothing provides a clean, identifiable layer while maintaining a formal appearance. This approach supports a perception of authority and expertise desired in the outpatient setting. Since the office environment is often designed to be aesthetically pleasing and less sterile than a hospital, business attire fits the overall atmosphere better.
Scrub Colors in Procedural Settings
Dermatologists wear scrubs when engaged in surgical procedures, such as complex excisions or Mohs micrographic surgery, or when working in a hospital setting. In these procedural environments, the color of the scrubs is dictated by facility protocols or standard surgical practice, rather than personal choice. The most common colors observed are variations of blue or green, including teal or turquoise.
These specific colors serve a functional purpose in the operating room by helping reduce eye strain for the surgical team during long procedures. Looking at a muted color like blue or green provides a momentary rest for the eyes after focusing intensely on the reddish colors of tissue and blood. The use of teal or green scrubs also minimizes the distracting effect of “afterimages” that occur when a surgeon shifts their gaze from the red surgical field to a white or brightly colored surface.
The Role of Professional Dress in Dermatology
The strategic choice of attire in dermatology plays a substantial role in shaping patient experience and the perception of the practice. Attire can directly influence a patient’s trust and their perception of the physician’s knowledge and skill. Since the field includes a high volume of aesthetic and cosmetic procedures, the physician’s appearance becomes an extension of the practice’s brand.
For aesthetic dermatologists, clothing is often chosen to reflect a stylish or modern sensibility, aligning with the beauty and anti-aging focus of their work. This presentation helps create a desired patient experience and reinforces the sophisticated nature of the services offered. Patients seeking cosmetic services often expect a polished presentation from their physician. Ultimately, the decision to wear business attire or tailored scrubs is a calculated one, aimed at building confidence and creating a specific ambiance.