Overview
New advanced beauty treatments and amazing skin transformations is all thanks to cosmetic dermatologists. Unlike general dermatologists, which you can read about here, cosmetic dermatologists work primarily on enhancing patients’ aesthetic features. This mainly focuses on the face, hands, neck, and other parts of the body that are the most prone to aging or related concerns.
Procedures
In order to create lasting changes to help a variety of patient needs, these dermatologists provide a large range of treatments. This includes laser treatments, chemical peels, Botox, and fillers. Just for a quick summary, laser treatments address issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and hair removal. In addition, Botox and fillers can reduce wrinkles (or add volume) and chemical peels reduce skin texture. Some other treatments include body contouring, a form of non-surgical fat reduction, and micro needling which boosts collagen production, that can also reduce fine lines.
Patients
While the patients can range from all ages, it’s common for cosmetic dermatologists to treat older patients with concerns of aging and teens who often struggle with acne. Whether it’s for acne scars or anti-aging treatments, a cosmetic dermatologist help patients feel more confident in there skin. With aesthetic features in mind, they address conditions like, acne (and acne scars), rosacea, hair loss, and more.
Training
Like many doctors, dermatologists complete a typical pre-med or science related (ex. biology or biochem) major as there undergraduate degree. After completing a bachelor’s degree, future physicians attend medical school for an additional four years. Additionally, for dermatology a 3-year residency program is needed, specializing in hair, nails, and skin. Cosmetic dermatologists also complete additional trading, such as a fellowship, to become skilled in cosmetic procedures. Of course, this is just a brief summary of the many requirements needed to become a cosmetic dermatologist.
Work-Life Balance and Demand
One major perk of dermatology is the work-life balance compared to other specialties. Most cosmetic dermatologists have predictable office hours, fewer emergencies, and control of there patient load. With this in mind, cosmetic dermatology (and dermatology in general) is one of the most competitive specialties. However, with new technological advancements and procedures, cosmetic dermatology is a rapidly growing field, and the demand is steadily increasing.
Is This The Career For You?
If your passionate about using science and technology to help others feel and look there best, then you might want to consider cosmetic dermatology! Becoming a physician is not an easy task in itself, but dermatology is one of the most competive. When considering this as a future career path, consider how hard you are willing to work and plan on completing internships and volunteering related to this speciality. Additionally, this career might interest you if you love that one-on-one patient connection and helping them throughout their appointment or procedure. Overall, it is both a challenging and rewarding field.
Personal Take
Some people think that cosmetic dermatology is “just about looks.” However, these doctors leave a lasting impact on a patients mental health and confidence. By helping people minimize scarring, aging, pigmentation, or other aesthetic concerns, cosmetic dermatologists allow them to feel more comfortable in their own skin. Even though it is a challenging specialty, the work-life balance, financial stability, and patient connections are what motivate me to pursue a career in dermatology and heavily consider a career in cosmetic dermatology.
Sources
https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-a-cosmetic-dermatologist