Read on to learn more about what dermatologists do and the training they receive, as well as when to book an appointment with one.
What Do Dermatologists Do?
Dermatologists are medical doctors (MDs) who treat the skin, the largest organ in your body. They also treat conditions that affect the nails and hair. Dermatologists treat more than 3,000 conditions, including:
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Acne Eczema Hair loss Chronic nail infections
How Are Dermatologists Trained?
Dermatologists get a bachelor’s degree (four-year degree). Then, they go to medical school, which takes another four years. After they graduate from medical school, they do an internship for one year and then a residency for at least three more years. That’s 12 years of schooling in all.
Dermatologists then take an exam to become board certified. Passing this exam shows that the dermatologist is an expert in skin, hair, and nail care. Board certified dermatologists will use the letters “FAAD” in their credentials, which means “Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.”
How Common Is Skin Disease?
About one-third of Americans suffer from skin diseases at any given time. These include cosmetic conditions, such as acne or birthmarks that can affect your self-confidence, or more serious diseases like skin cancer.
What Are the Most Common Skin Disorders?
These are the top reasons people see dermatologists:
Acne: Acne is the most common skin condition, affecting 85% of people at some point during their lives (primarily in the teen years). Eczema: Eczema is a chronic skin condition that affects 10% of people. It causes an itchy rash that can interrupt sleep and make people feel self-conscious. Hair loss: Hair loss, most commonly caused by a condition known as androgenetic alopecia, affects about half of men over age 50. It can also affect women, especially after menopause. Psoriasis: Psoriasis affects about 3% of Americans. It’s an inflammatory disease that causes a dry, itchy rash with plaques or scales. Skin cancer: Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis, affecting about 20% of Americans during their lifetime.
When to See a Dermatologist
You should see a dermatologist if you have a skin, hair, or nail condition that isn’t going away or hasn’t responded to treatments from your primary care provider. Some reasons to see a dermatologist are:
Acne that won’t clear up with a good skin care routine A mole or birthmark that changes shape, or a sore that won’t heal Persistent or recurring skin infections, dry skin, or itchiness Hair loss Infections or discoloration in your nails Scars that bother you or impact your self-esteem
Summary
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists complete 12 years of schooling after high school. They are equipped to handle both common and rare conditions including acne and skin cancer.
A Word From Verywell
Having healthy skin, hair, and nails is about more than looking good: It’s an important indication of your overall health. If you have a skin, hair, or nail concern, don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist.
