What Does a Dermatologist Do? Education, Training & Key Roles

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What Does a Dermatologist Do?

The Importance of Dermatologists

When it comes to skincare, there’s often confusion about the roles and expertise of various skin professionals. While aestheticians and cosmetic doctors play important roles in skin health, a dermatologist’s training and expertise are unmatched when it comes to diagnosing and treating skin conditions. But what exactly is a dermatologist, and what sets them apart from other skincare professionals? Let’s break down the role of these skin experts and why their knowledge is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.

What Is a Dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists are trained to manage over 2,000 different skin conditions, ranging from common issues like acne and eczema to life-threatening diseases like melanoma. Their extensive training allows them to provide comprehensive care for patients with a wide range of skin concerns.

The Training Journey of a Dermatologist

Becoming a dermatologist requires years of rigorous education and training. In the UK, the path to becoming a dermatologist typically takes about 14 years. Here’s an overview of the training journey:

  1. Medical School (5-6 years)

    The journey begins with earning a medical degree, which involves 5-6 years of studying medicine at a university. During this time, future dermatologists gain a broad understanding of all aspects of medicine, including anatomy, physiology, and pathology.

  2. Internal Medicine / Junior Doctor Training (4 years)

    After medical school, aspiring dermatologists complete 4 years of general medical training as junior doctors. This phase provides hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of medical conditions, including those that may manifest in the skin.

  3. Specialty Dermatology Training (4 years)

    The final phase of training is focused on dermatology. Over the course of 4 years, dermatology trainees gain in-depth knowledge and experience in managing skin conditions, performing skin surgeries, and using advanced dermatological technologies. This specialised training equips them to handle everything from common skin issues to complex, rare conditions. After completing their training, dermatologists can choose to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or private practices. Many also pursue further specialisation in areas such as dermatologic surgery, paediatric dermatology, or cosmetic dermatology.

The Role of a Dermatologist

Dermatologists are uniquely qualified to treat a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions. Here are some of the key areas they specialise in:

  1. Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Surgical Management

    Dermatologists are experts in identifying and treating skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. They perform skin biopsies, excisions, and Mohs surgery—a precise surgical technique used to remove skin cancer while preserving healthy tissue.

  2. Eczema, Psoriasis, and Other Inflammatory Skin Conditions

    Chronic inflammatory conditions like eczema and psoriasis require careful management. Dermatologists develop personalised treatment plans to control symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life.

  3. Acne and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

    Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, but it can be challenging to treat, especially in severe cases. Dermatologists provide targeted therapies, including prescription medications and advanced treatments, to manage acne and related conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa.

  4. Blistering Diseases

    Blistering disorders, such as pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid, are rare but serious conditions that require expert care. Dermatologists diagnose and treat these diseases, often working in multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care.

  5. Skin Infections

    Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections of the skin can range from mild to life-threatening. Dermatologists are skilled in diagnosing and treating these infections to prevent complications.

  6. Genital Skin Disease

    Dermatologists treat a variety of skin conditions that affect the genital area, including lichen sclerosus, genital warts, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

  7. Scalp, Hair, and Nail Conditions

    Conditions affecting the scalp, hair, and nails—such as alopecia, fungal nail infections, and scalp psoriasis—are within a dermatologist’s scope of practice.

  8. Cosmetic Dermatology
    In addition to medical dermatology, many dermatologists offer cosmetic procedures such as laser treatments, injectable fillers, and chemical peels to enhance skin appearance and address cosmetic concerns.

Dermatologists vs. Other Skincare Professionals

While dermatologists are medical doctors with specialised training in skin diseases, other skincare professionals, such as aestheticians and cosmetic doctors, have different roles:

  • Aestheticians focus on the cosmetic aspects of skincare, providing treatments like facials, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels. They are trained in beauty therapy but do not have medical training.
  • Cosmetic Doctors may be general practitioners or other types of physicians who have received additional training in cosmetic procedures. While they can perform treatments like Botox and fillers, they do not have the specialised dermatological training that a dermatologist does.

Klira is founded by Dr Emma Craythorne, MBChB FRCP, Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon. Learn more about our founder here. Our Medical Director Team, comprised entirely of Consultant Dermatologists, leads our clinical expertise. Our Dermatology Team consists of highly trained dermatology pharmacists, dedicated to supporting Klira members with expert guidance and care.

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

Consultant Dermatologist and Founder at Klira |  + posts

Emma Craythorne is a Consultant Dermatologist, Trustee for the Cosmetic Practice Standards Authority and ex-President of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group. Dr Emma is well known for her TV series – The Bad Skin Clinic – her renowned private practice, and NHS work.

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THE KLIRA SPECIAL

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Precision-targeted to address the signs of ageing on the chest and hands

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THE KLIRA SPECIAL

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THE BODY SPECIAL

Buy the Body Special as a one off purchase, or subscribe and save

THE FULL MEMBERSHIP

Buy the full package and explore the full impact of Klira while saving 5%

THE SCRIPT

Dermatologist's notes on skincare and lifestyle

FOUNDER & TEAM

Meet the Consultant Dermatologist and team behind Klira

INGREDIENTS

The ingredients in your special

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