Dermatology is one of the most versatile specialties in the medical community. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating a broad array of conditions that affect skin, hair and nails. Dermatologists can diagnose and treat over 3,000 conditions; common ones include acne, dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections, warts, nail problems, vitiligo, psoriasis, rosacea, shingles and skin cancer. Dermatologists also provide a wide range of procedures, both medical and cosmetic, including chemical peels, cosmetic injections, cryotherapy, dermabrasion, excision of lesions, hair removal or restoration, laser surgery, vein procedures, tumescent liposuction, skin grafts and flaps, biopsies, PUVA and Mohs surgery for skin cancers. 

Board-certified dermatologists undergo extensive education and training to qualify in their field. After completing a 4-year bachelor’s degree in pre-med including courses in biology, organic chemistry, physics and general chemistry, aspiring dermatologists need to take and perform well on the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). They must then attend a 4-year accredited medical school. Following medical school, a residency program is required with 1 year as an intern in either general surgery or internal medicine, followed by 3 years of clinical residency in dermatology. After the completion of residency, many dermatologists choose to pursue further training in sub-specialized fields such as cosmetic surgery, laser medicine, dermatopathology, phototherapy, immunodermatology or Moh’s micrographic surgery. This is done through a 1-2-year fellowship. All in all, dermatologists spend a minimum of 12 years in education before passing a state licensing exam and becoming board certified. 

The skin is the largest organ in the body and one of the most complicated. One of the main functions of the skin, and its derivatives (hair, nails, sweat and oil glands), is protection. It protects the body from external factors such as bacteria, chemicals and temperature. Routine checkups with a dermatologist can offer solutions to help protect the skin and prevent a myriad of issues including skin cancer screenings, which can be lifesaving. 

If you are looking to achieve clearer skin, have concerns about skin infections or cancers or arendebating syringe versus scalpel for any number of cosmetic procedures, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology specializes in treating medical and cosmetic conditions of the skin. As a full-service dermatology and cosmetic practice, our board-certified physicians are here to educate patients in achieving aesthetic and dermatological goals. Get started today by calling 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE for a solution to your skin care needs.