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Basic Facts About Dermatology

Dermatology is a medical practice focusing on skin, hair, and nail care. Dermatology is practiced by Doctors of Dermatology, known as dermatologists. Dermatologists are medical doctors (MDs) with specific clinical experience to diagnose and treat conditions related to the body areas listed above.

A dermatologist has completed a four-year bachelor's degree, four years of medical school, a year-long internship in medicine, and a three-year clinical residency (or 10,000 hours of training) before they practice on their own. In addition to this training, dermatologists will take an exam for board certification from either the American Board of Dermatology or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology. Board certification means that dermatologists have demonstrated their mastery of dermatology knowledge and have met the highest standards to specialize in this care field.

A dermatologist may be able to identify and treat the following conditions:

• Acne
  
• Eczema
  
• Rosacea
  
• Dermatitis (skin irritation)
  
• Skin infections
  
• Melanoma (skin cancer)
  
• Moles
  
• Hair loss/ abnormal hair growth
  
  

In addition to having the clinical knowledge and training to diagnose and treat over 3,000 conditions, dermatologists can perform cosmetic procedures on the skin, hair, and nails to improve appearance.

Cosmetic procedures include:

• Treatment for wrinkles (anti-aging)
  
• Scar tissue reduction
  
• Treatment for sunspots and discolored skin
  
• Laser tattoo removal
  
• Laser hair removal
  
• Fat/ cellulite removal
  
• BOTOX injections
  
  

Dermatology subspecialties

In addition to the clinical education and experience detailed above, some dermatologists undergo continued training to provide specialized dermatological care.

Subspecialties of dermatology include:

Pediatric dermatology: Pediatric dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions in children. They treat conditions like birthmarks, warts, eczema, or psoriasis.

Dermatopathology: Dermatopathologists are doctors who specialize in both dermatology and pathology. This means they are trained to examine biopsied parts of the skin and write a biopsy report to determine the possibility of skin cancers (such as melanoma) or skin diseases (such as impetigo, vitiligo, or warts). In addition, some dermatopathologists undergo special training to perform Mohs surgery, a precise technique that eliminates skin cancer cells.

Cosmetic dermatology: Cosmetic dermatologists specialize in aesthetic skin care, treating conditions including acne, wrinkles, sagging skin, or varicose veins. These doctors are trained to perform cosmetic procedures like filler injections for sagging skin, laser resurfacing, or chemical peels.

What to expect during your first appointment

Most dermatology consultations start with the doctor reviewing the patient's medical history and asking about symptoms or complications. After these initial steps, a physical or visual exam of the affected area will be done so the doctor can assess the skin condition. Based on the doctor's findings, further testing may need to be done.

If further testing is not required, the dermatologist or physician can advise the patient about treatment options and next steps. While many people just see a dermatologist when something bothers them, annual dermatologist visits can be crucial in detecting and preventing skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that those at high risk for skin cancer (like people with lighter skin, blue eyes, and skin that burns easily) see a dermatologist once a year. These yearly visits allow doctors to detect skin cancer warning signs early, making treatment significantly more effective. In addition, talk to your dermatologist about how often you should come in for physical exams to help prevent skin conditions before they cause complications.

How to Book a Dermatology Appointment on Sesame

When you book a dermatology appointment through Sesame, no referral from a primary care provider is needed. Just find a dermatologist you want to see in New York City, find a time that works for you, and book an in-person or virtual appointment.

Here’s how it works:

• Search “Dermatology” in Sesame’s search bar
  
• Browse the list of available providers near you
  
• Choose between video and in-person services
  
• Pick a time that works best for your schedule
  
• Set up your appointment
  
  

If you book a video appointment, you will receive an email with a link to join the video appointment. You will also be able to access this link in another reminder email you will receive 30 minutes before the appointment start time and within your account.