How to Become a Dermatologist & How Much Do They Make?
Last Updated on January 22, 2024 by Lori Pace
Dermatologists are the perfect profession if you’re looking to improve people’s appearance. This post will cover the steps involved in becoming a dermatologist, as well as everything you need to know about this career.
How to Become a Dermatologist? – Getting Started
What is a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a specialist in skin care who diagnoses and treats various skin problems. This is a highly recommended career choice for those looking to work in the medical field.
A dermatologist can also treat hair and nails, known as skin appendages. People spend thousands of dollars improving their appearance in today’s digital age. To restore natural beauty, a dermatologist can enhance your appearance.
What is the range of services of a dermatologist?
A dermatologist can treat a wide range of issues, not just skin-related ones. A dermatologist can diagnose and treat any type of skin problem, including skin cancer, skin infections and skin infections. Also, there is always a skilled assistant supporting dermatologists with their treatment!
The most popular services dermatologists offer to improve skin appearance are: Over 70% of patients go to the dermatologist to remove scarring, grow their hair and reduce the signs of aging. These services are available as a part-of a range of cosmetic needs.
1. Acne
There are many types of acne and dermatologists can treat them with different methods such as light therapy, chemical peels, removal of cysts, and so on.
2. Skin Infections
The first step in diagnosing the cause of the skin infection is to consult a dermatologist. After determining the root cause, a dermatologist will recommend treatment or medication to prevent the infection from spreading further and slow down its progression.
3. Skin Cancer
A dermatologist can remove cancerous cells from the skin and offer treatment to the area.
4. Nail Problems
The dermatologist can help with nail-related issues such as discoloration, restoration, and other common problems.
5. Hair Loss
If the problem is not curable, the dermatologist can help you solve your hair loss problem.
These are services that a dermatologist offers depending on the needs of the patient. These services may also be offered by general practitioners. However, a dermatologist can provide professional treatment using the appropriate medicines.
The dermatologist can help you identify some of your health problems. In short, the skin is the largest organ in your body. So, a professional dermatologist can diagnose many health problems by examining your skin.
How to Become a Dermatologist?
After completing high school, it takes 12 years to become an experienced dermatologist. However, many schools offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs that can be combined to reduce the time it takes to become a dermatologist.
We have listed the years and courses you need to complete to become a dermatologist. Let’s look at the information.
1. Four Years Bachelor’s Degree
For the next stage, which is to be admitted to med school, you will need to have completed the bachelor’s degree. Special subjects may be required for bachelor’s degrees at some schools. A bachelor’s degree must include English, Math, and Science.
You should also be involved in other college activities. Med School is highly competitive. So, if you are an active student with various skills, you will be able to stand out among the rest of your peers.
Check the top medical school requirements in your state before you enrol in college. This will allow you to determine the courses you should take to advance your career.
2. Medical Collect Admission Test
You must pass the Medical College Admissions Test before applying to Medical School to become a dermatologist. Then, your admission to Med School will be confirmed if you pass the MCAT before applying.
What is MCAT?
To be admitted to Medical College, you must pass the MCAT test. The standardised test is 7.5 hours long and includes multiple-choice questions. This test is used to assess the student’s potential. The medical college also uses it to select the best candidates for further study.
The official website of MCAT allows candidates to find information about the courses and the study materials, and all other details. You can also apply for the exams to be qualified for medical school.
3. Four Years Medical Degree
After you have completed your medical degree, there are two ways to become a dermatologist.
- Doctor of Medicine, i.e., MD
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, i.e., DO
You can choose these programs if you wish to be a dermatologist. So, choose the right course, which can take you to a 4-year-long system leading to a medical degree.
You will learn different courses each year that will help you in your professional career. Each year, you will receive step-by-step instructions. This year is crucial because it includes critical care, research, and surgery. You will also learn how to gather the data and know the medical history, as well as how to diagnose common skin problems.
4. Four Years Residency Program
After completing your Medical Degree with MD/DO, you’ll be eligible to practice dermatology. You will also be able to understand the processes and treatments of dermatology through the Medical Degree. However, you must complete the four-year accredited dermatology residency program.
You can become a dermatologist after completing the residency program. However, this program includes a one-year internship in general medicine and the remainder for the dermatology residency program.
The Residency Program provides a foundation for your confidence in treating patients. Highly experienced dermatologists support this program because it intends to increase experience and confidence. As a result, they will be able to open their own practice in dermatology.
5. 1-2 Years Extra Course
A dermatologist can take a one- or two-year course in advanced dermatology after gaining confidence and experience. Courses include phototherapy, Moh’s micrographic surgery, laser medicine, cosmetic dermatology, and more.
But, these courses are available on-demand and require additional training.
You may be able to specialise if you are qualified to do so. This will allow you to grow your career and expand your opportunities. After completing your residency in dermatology, you will be able to choose from the following courses:
- Cosmetic Dermatology
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Dermatopathology
- Surgical Dermatology
6. Getting a Certification or License
To become a dermatologist, you will need to pass another exam after you have completed the additional course. After that, you’ll have to take the American Board of Dermatology exam.
To become a member, you will need to pass this exam. Then, you will be able to open your clinic by obtaining a medical license. Even so, maintaining the board certification means that a dermatologist must retake the exam once every ten years. You can keep your profession afloat with the Continuing Medical Exam.
Potential Salary of Dermatologist
A dermatologist’s training and experience are more extensive than those in other fields. Therefore, they can receive more and with experience, the salary increases.
A recent survey revealed that the average salary for a dermatologist was below:
- Average Annual Salary: $344,600
- Average Hourly Rate $166
This salary does not include bonuses or other industry benefits. The average annual salary for a professional dermatologist is 25% higher than the one listed above. Hence, you will earn more if you are certified in additional courses like phototherapy, cosmetic dermatology, Moh’s Micrographic Surgery, laser medicine, and so on.
Why should you choose Dermatology as your Career?
There are many reasons to consider becoming a dermatologist. This list will show you why dermatology is a great career choice.
- Job of high standard
- Full-time working hours 9 to 5
- Can work remotely
- Job satisfaction
- Balance between work and life
- There are many cases you can handle
- New courses can help you expand your career
What are the Challenges that a dermatologist has to face?
A dermatologist faces many challenges during the 9-5 work hours, just like any other profession which are:
- Competitor field
- Guideline and appointments via telephonic phone
- Medical training is required on a regular basis
- The development of new equipment and techniques continues.
Is Dermatology a Right Career Choice?
If you are passionate about treating patients with skin-related issues, dermatology is a great career option. After completing your degree, there are many career options to be a specialised dermatologist.
To become a successful dermatologist, you must be a diligent follower of your chosen profession. Furthermore, you must constantly learn new techniques and medications because it’s best to use new technology to help patients heal faster.
