Cosmetic Dermatology - A Review of Options and Procedures

Cosmetic dermatology is a branch of dermatology that focuses on improving the appearance of the skin, hair, and nails. It involves a range of treatments that are designed to enhance the appearance of the skin and improve its overall health and well-being.

Some of the most common cosmetic dermatology treatments include:

Laser treatments: These are used to improve the appearance of the skin by removing unwanted hair, reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes, and improving the texture and tone of the skin. They include laser skin resurfacing.
Chemical peels: These are used to improve the texture and tone of the skin by removing the outer layers of skin cells. They can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including acne, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.
Botox and fillers: Botox is a type of injectable treatment that is used to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. Fillers, on the other hand, are used to add volume to areas of the face that have lost volume due to aging or other factors.
Microdermabrasion: This is a non-invasive treatment that uses a special tool to gently exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells. It can be used to improve the texture and tone of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Dermal rollers and needling: These treatments use a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of the skin.
Facial treatments: These are designed to improve the appearance and health of the skin on the face. They can include a range of treatments, such as exfoliation, facial masks, and moisturizing treatments.
Hair removal: There are a number of methods available for removing unwanted hair, including waxing, shaving, and laser hair removal.
Nail treatments: These can include manicures and pedicures, as well as treatments to improve the appearance and health of the nails.
Tattoo removal

Learn about the price and costs of these aesthetic procedures.

In addition to these treatments, cosmetic dermatologists may also recommend certain skincare products and routines to help improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. This may include cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and sunscreens, as well as other products that are specifically formulated for certain skin types or concerns.

It is important to note that cosmetic dermatology treatments are elective procedures, and they are not covered by insurance. As such, patients will typically need to pay for these treatments out of pocket. It is also worth noting that cosmetic dermatology treatments are not without risk, and it is important to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of any treatment before proceeding.

Overall, cosmetic dermatology is a field that is focused on helping people improve the appearance and health of their skin, hair, and nails. With a range of treatments available, it is possible for individuals to address a variety of concerns and improve their overall appearance.

How Do You Become a Cosmetic Dermatologist

Becoming a cosmetic dermatologist typically involves several steps:

Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. This step is typically required to be accepted into medical school.
Attend medical school and earn a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. This typically takes four years to complete.
Complete a residency in dermatology. This step typically takes three years to complete. During your residency, you will receive extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.
Pass a certification exam. After completing your residency, you will be eligible to take the American Board of Dermatology certification exam. You must pass this exam to become board-certified in dermatology.
Complete a fellowship in cosmetic dermatology. Many physicians choose to complete additional training in cosmetic dermatology to specialize in this area. Fellowship programs typically take one to two years to complete and focus on the latest techniques in cosmetic dermatology.
Obtain state license and maintain ongoing education, Continuing Medical education (CME) and other credentialing requirements.

It’s worth noting that, this is general path and requirement may vary depending on the country you are practicing in.

Cosmetic Dermatology References

American Academy of Dermatology. “Cosmetic Dermatology.” American Academy of Dermatology, 2021, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/cosmetic-treatments.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Chemical Peels.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2021, .

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. “Botox Injections.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, 2021, .

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Dermal Fillers.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2021, .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Skin Cancer Prevention.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/prevention.htm.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Microdermabrasion.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2021, .

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. “Laser Therapy.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, 2021, .

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Tattoo Removal.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2021, .