Let Talk About Skin - Dermatologists

By: Fatin Anjum

What are they?

A Dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the field of skin. A dermatologist mainly works to diagnose and treat skin conditions, hair conditions, nails, etc. Dermatologists are experts who identify and work to create treatments for the integumentary layer of the skin. Aside from skin conditions, certain dermatologists may also specialize in cosmetic treatments or plastic surgery.

Roles

Typical roles of dermatologists may include an array of diagnoses such as conducting skin examinations to identify skin conditions, diagnose skin disorders, develop long-term and short-term treatment plans designated for patients, and monitoring skin conditions or progress over periods of time. Some dermatologists are non-surgical and, therefore, do not perform surgery. However, some dermatologists may be surgical and may perform minor surgeries such as biopsies, excisions, and laser treatments, or may refer patients to other surgeons for complex surgery. Dermatologists may also act as skin consultants, advising and educating patients on skincare routines and lifestyle changes. One of the lesser known dermatologist roles may be conducting research to improve skincare treatments and further research on skincare ingredients.. 

Pathways

Step 1: Enroll in College or University

In college, it is imperative to take classes that are prerequisites to medical schools. For example, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, organic chemistry, anatomy, and English. In order to be a competitive applicant for medical school, earning a B or higher is recommended. While in college, it is also important to carry out extracurricular activities or leadership roles, specifically those that are STEM or science-related

Step 2: Prep and take the MCAT

The MCAT is a requirement for admission into medical school. A good score on the MCAT, possibly 511 or higher, will make you a very competitive applicant and will increase your chances of admission into medical school.

Step 3: Acceptance to Medical School, specifically Allopathic (MD degree) or Osteopathic (DO degree)

Aspiring dermatologists must apply to and be accepted to an Allopathic or osteopathic medical school. Both medical programs typically cover the material needed for medical licensing. The medical school curriculum is split into 2 parts. The first 2 years cover classwork while the last 2 years are spent doing trials or getting hospital experience. After the first 2 years, MD students must pass the 1st part of the USMILE or the US medical licensing exam, while MO students must pass the 1st part of the COMPLEX-USA or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Exam. After taking the 1st part of either SIMPLE or COMPLEX-USA, medical students must take part 2 of the USMLE or COMLEX-USA exams. During the last year of medical school, students should apply to various residency programs. In this case, dermatology programs. 

Step 4: Residency 

After medical school, students will get a temporary license to practice with patients while under supervision. Towards the end of residency, students have to take the 3rd step of the USMLE or COMLEX-USA exams. Upon successful completion of the exam, medical interns can be referred to as residents. 

Step 5: Board Certification

Board Certification is not a must for dermatology however, it still is an option. 

Certification for Dermatology can be obtained through either the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology.

Work Life Balance: 

Work-life balance is by far one of the best for dermatologists. Dermatologists typically have a fixed schedule with decent working hours (around 40 per week). Dermatology tends to have very few emergencies, so dermatologists rarely deal with patients outside work hours. The salary is also desirable. Dermatologists are expected to earn on average $367,977. Overall, dermatology is a  unique field with opportunities to grow and have flexibility.

Works Cited:

Torres, Callie. “How to become a Dermatologist - Guide to Dermatology and the path to becoming Dermatologists.” UMHS, 18 October 2021, https://www.umhs-sk.org/blog/how-to-become-a-dermatologist. Accessed 4 April 2025.

“Salary: Dermatologist in Charlotte, NC (Apr, 2025).” ZipRecruiter, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Dermatologist-Salary-in-Charlotte,NC. Accessed 4 April 2025.