Step by step guide to becoming a dermatologist

A dermatologist is a physician who is trained to evaluate and treat children and adults with benign and malignant disorders of the skin, hair, nails and adjacent mucous membranes. A dermatologist has had additional training and experience in the following:

The diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, melanomas, moles, and other tumors of the skin.
The management of contact dermatitis and other inflammatory skin disorders.
The recognition of the skin manifestations of systemic and infectious diseases.
Interpretation of skin biopsies.
Surgical techniques used in dermatology.

Dermatologists also manage cosmetic disorders of the skin, including hair loss, scars, and the skin changes associated with aging.

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What does a dermatologist do?

In certain parts of the world, like Australia, dermatologists spend much of their time treating conditions resulting from exposure to the sun, such as malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. In other regions, dermatologists are more likely to encounter cosmetic problems; moles, hair and nail disorders, occupational dermatitis, psoriasis, skin infections, eczema, acne, rosacea, and hand dermatitis. Rosacea is a common skin condition that can cause redness and swelling. Hand dermatitis results from contact with household chemical and affects most women with children. The cosmetic problems for which dermatologists can provide assistance include wrinkles, age spots and other signs of aging, hair loss, and scars. Some dermatologists perform minor cosmetic procedures such as face lifts, liposuction, and blepharoplasty, a surgical modification of the eyelid.

Cosmetics, industrial compounds, and pesticides continually present new dermatological problems. The increased outdoor work and leisure time of people today have increased their exposure to the sun and other hazards that can cause skin problems. It takes years of training and experience to learn how to distinguish the subtle differences in skin problems. Different conditions often share similar symptoms. There is therefore a growing need for more doctors to understand dermatology.

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What kind of skills are required?

Dermatologists need the ability to work well in close contact with others and to communicate well when advising and counseling patients. They need emotional stability and the desire to help others. Superior stamina and good health are necessary to withstand the rigors of medical training and to work many hours in a medical practice. They need good eyesight and manual dexterity to perform many hands-on procedures, including biopsies, skin surgery and the application of topical agents.

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