Dermatology Explained: How Dermatologists Care for Skin

The popularity of minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatments is on the rise, but many people are still in the dark about how dermatologists actually help patients care for their skin. Simply put, a dermatologist is a doctor who is fully trained and specializes in skin, nail, hair, and mucous membrane health. The team of physicians at Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills all specialize in dermatology treatments for the Los Angeles area, where they routinely educate women and men alike in the importance of choosing a licensed, board-certified dermatologist for any questions or procedures involving the look and health of the skin. Injections and treatments from professionals who merely work with the skin, but who have no dermatological background or degree, can be marked by greater chance of complications and a higher level of risk.

Dermatologists typically have unrivaled insight into the physiological components of skin and its related systems, gained over roughly 12 years of intensive education and training. This begins with a bachelor’s degree, followed by a four-year medical degree, an internship, and a residency that lasts for a minimum of three years. At this point, dermatologists may choose to register with an organization, such as the American Academy of Dermatology, to gain “board-certified” status. This is voluntary, but indicates a commitment to (and recognition of) exceptionally high standards of care. They may also pursue advanced training in areas like reconstructive surgery to treat wounds, as well as with cosmetic treatments such as BOTOX® or Juvederm®.

Patients who are seeking cosmetic surgery or even minimally invasive treatments should research board-certified dermatologists and be wary of uncertified and unlicensed estheticians. It is always a good idea to check up on the educational background and credentials of any chosen medical professional.

There are several branches of dermatology, including medical dermatology, dermatopathology, surgical dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology. Some physicians specialize in one specific area, while others lend their expertise to treating both health-related and aesthetic issues.

Cosmetic dermatology has become a booming industry in the last decade, as various anti-aging treatments and other minimally invasive procedures have become more accessible for anyone who want to turn back the clock, create a more even skin tone, or otherwise enhance their natural features. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery recently noted that dermatologists remain a major influence on patients’ cosmetic choices.

Some of the primary ways cosmetic dermatology can be used to create a more visibly youthful-looking and clear complexion include reducing the appearance of scars, sun spots, or blemishes and adding volume to diminish fine lines and depressions. Cosmetic treatments like BOTOX®, Kybella®, laser skin resurfacing, and dermal fillers can help to revitalize a person’s facial appearance and diminish the signs of aging. Cosmetic dermatologists may also offer laser hair and tattoo removal, among other services.

Medical dermatology typically involves identifying, diagnosing, and treating issues affecting the hair, skin, and nails. This includes skin-based manifestations of internal disease. Dermatologists can reasonably be expected to have some knowledge of more than 3,000 conditions, ranging from rashes to cancers. Some of the most common conditions dermatologists help patients to manage and treat include acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema. In cases of chronic conditions, the physician can help to relieve symptoms and mitigate triggers in the absence of a cure.

Often, medical and cosmetic dermatology are linked. With acne, for instance, the problem has a medical component that frequently results in unwanted outbreaks that impact a person’s appearance. Working with an experienced dermatologist can yield results at a speed and on a scale not necessarily available to medical professionals who focus only on one aspect or another of skin care.

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Have questions about what else sets a board-certified dermatologist apart? For more information on cosmetic or medical dermatology, contact Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills by sending a message online or giving them a call at 310.246.0495.