DERMATOLOGY

By: Ashley Cruz

Edited: Maya Adam

The skin is the body's largest organ, it protects our internal organs and sends messages about our health. Dermatologists are the medical professionals that focus most on this organ's health. These medical professionals' work is critical to the physical and mental state of patients, improving the patient's life.

Dermatology is the branch of medicine that engages with the diagnosis, treatment, disorders, and conditions affecting the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. Dermatologists can address a wide range of skin-related issues from hormonal acne to skin cancer. While engaging in this wide range, there are different specializations with dermatologists such as cosmetic dermatology, dermatopathology, pediatric dermatology, and surgical dermatology. These medical professionals can diagnose and treat certain conditions, like acne and dermatitis. Dermatologists also conduct surgeries for health purposes like removing moles and cysts that could show signs of being cancerous. Dermatologists also assess issues patients may have with their appearance with cosmetic treatments like filler or botox. 

To become a dermatologist you must have a bachelor's degree, with a major related to pre-med or sciences to prepare yourself for future studies. Then, medical school, which is a four-year program. After, you must complete your residency in dermatology, which will allow you to gain experience in a dermatology setting. Lastly, dermatologists must be licensed and board-certified. It is also important to have personal skills such as good communication skills to properly implement a plan for your patient, and empathy, to understand the patient's worries and provide compassionate advice.

Overall, dermatology is a rewarding specialty that offers a wide range of opportunities to help people feel good about themselves, through the prevention and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions. These medical professionals not only help your self-esteem but your health, dermatologists play an important role in preventing skin cancer through sun safety education and early cancer screening. Overall, if you're interested in dermatology, it requires a commitment to lifelong learning and a passion for helping people. 

Citations

American University of Antigua College of Medicine. “Dermatologist Education Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide.” American University of Antigua, 18 Mar. 2024, www.auamed.org/blog/dermatologist-education-requirements.

“Dermatology.” Yale Medicine, www.yalemedicine.org/clinical-keywords/dermatology#:~:text=Dermatology%20is%20the%20branch%20of,conditions%20affecting%20the%20skin%2C%20hair%2C.

Holland, Kimberly. “What Is a Dermatologist and How Can They Help You?” Healthline, 24 June 2020, www.healthline.com/find-care/articles/dermatologists/what-is-a-dermatologist#dermatology.

“How to Become a Dermatologist: Steps to Take From High School.” CollegeVine Blog, 7 Dec. 2020, blog.collegevine.com/how-to-become-a-dermatologist.