How to become a dermatologist

Diagnose and treat diseases relating to the skin, hair, and nails. May perform both medical and dermatological surgery functions.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

What dermatologists do

• Record patients' health histories.
• Recommend diagnostic tests based on patients' histories and physical examination findings.
• Read current literature, talk with colleagues, and participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in dermatology.
• Provide dermatologic consultation to other health professionals.
• Provide dermabrasion or laser abrasion to treat atrophic scars, elevated scars, or other skin conditions.
• Conduct complete skin examinations.

Skills that matter most

• Critical Thinking
• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Speaking
• Active Learning
• Science
• Writing
• Monitoring

Is dermatologist a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 545% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Minnesota $625,790
• Washington $526,170
• New Hampshire $516,230
• Maryland $442,210
• Delaware $442,120

Dermatologists salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.