Dermatologist

Your skin is your first impression, your shield, and sometimes, your biggest insecurity. As a Dermatologist, you don’t just treat skin—you restore confidence, prevent disease, and even save lives.

This is one of the most prestigious and high-earning medical fields, offering regular working hours, hands-on procedures, and the chance to work in cutting-edge aesthetics or medical research. Whether you dream of leading life-changing skin cancer treatments, running a luxury private clinic, or even launching your own skincare brand, dermatology opens unlimited doors.

With salaries reaching £126,000+ (even higher in private practice) and opportunities to work in medicine, media, and business, this is a career that blends science, beauty, and life-changing impact.

Key Details

£32,000

Entry

£93,000

Average

£126,000

Senior

46 / Wk

Average Hours

Dentist

Summary

Dermatology is a highly rewarding and prestigious medical career that blends science, aesthetics, and hands-on procedures. As a dermatologist, you will diagnose and treat a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, from life-threatening melanoma to confidence-shattering acne. The impact is often immediate, and the results can be life-changing for patients.

One of the unique advantages of dermatology is the flexibility it offers. Unlike other medical specialties, dermatologists can work in hospitals, private clinics, research institutions, or even develop their own skincare brands. Some go on to become media experts, educators, or industry leaders in medical aesthetics. The ability to balance medical expertise with cosmetic and business opportunities makes it an attractive career path.

Financially, dermatology is one of the most lucrative medical fields. NHS salaries for consultants range from £88,000 to £126,000, but those in private practice can earn significantly more, sometimes exceeding £250,000 per year. In addition to strong earning potential, dermatologists benefit from a more structured work-life balance compared to other specialisms, as most procedures are planned rather than emergency-based.

While the rewards are high, dermatology requires dedication and years of medical training. A medical degree, foundation training, and specialist dermatology training are non-negotiable steps on the path to becoming a consultant. However, for those with a passion for medical science, patient care, and problem-solving, dermatology offers a fulfilling and dynamic career with endless opportunities for professional growth.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the dermatologist is many and varied and revolve around hair, skin and nail conditions and treatment options.
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    Diagnosing and Treating skin concerns. As a dermatologist you will diagnose a range of skin, hair and nail conditions. You will identify skin issues like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and more complex skin diseases like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. You will further treat hair disorders such as hair loss (alopecia) and scalp infections and treat nail problems, including fungal infections and ingrown nails.

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    Derma Medical Procedures. An important aspect of the job is to perform skin cancer screening, perform biopsies to detect cancerous conditions like melanoma and conduct minor surgeries to remove warts, suspicious moles and other skin growth. You will additionally treat conditions like scars, acne, and pigmentation issues by performing laser treatments.

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    Cosmetic Dermatology. Dermatologist may help with cosmetic issues like wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and hair loss. You will provide treatments in form of laser therapy, Botox, chemical peels and minor surgery to improve the skins appearance.

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    Patient Care. You will provide advise on skin protection and lifestyle changes to improve skin health of your patients as well as educating on skin cancer awareness and self-examination.

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    Ongoing research and knowledge. You will stay up to date on latest innovations and advancement in dermatology as well as clinical trials. You will conduct research on dermatological conditions and treatments to improve patient care and undergo further training to become an expert in skin, nail and hair conditions and the latest treatments available.

Key Skills & Traits

A successful career in dermatology requires a mix of medical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and hands-on procedures. Here are the key skills needed to get started in this field.

Aspiring dermatologists can build these skills through medical school placements, shadowing specialists, and gaining hands-on experience during training. Engaging with professional organisations such as the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) can also help with learning and networking.

Understanding Skin Conditions

A strong foundation in recognising and diagnosing common skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, and skin cancers.

Hands-On Procedural Skills

Basic dermatology procedures include:Skin biopsies (removing small tissue samples for testing)Cryotherapy (freezing warts or precancerous lesions)Laser treatments (for scarring, pigmentation, or hair removal)Minor skin surgeries (removing moles or small cysts)

Interest in Aesthetic & Cosmetic Dermatology

Some dermatologists specialise in non-medical treatments like Botox, fillers, and laser therapy for cosmetic concerns. A basic understanding of skin health and aesthetics can be helpful.

Diagnostic & Observation Skills

Dermatologists need to accurately assess skin conditions using visual examination and diagnostic tools like dermoscopy (for mole and skin cancer detection). Learning to interpret skin biopsies is an important next step.

Communication & Patient Care

Explaining conditions and treatment options in simple, reassuring language is a crucial part of being a dermatologist. Building trust with patients is essential, especially for visible skin conditions that affect confidence.

Digital & Telemedicine Skills

Dermatology is a fast-moving field where technology plays a role. Learning about teledermatology (remote skin consultations using photos or video calls) and digital imaging can be an advantage.

Knowledge of Skincare & Treatments

An understanding of topical treatments like creams and medications for common conditions, as well as an introduction to systemic treatments (like oral medications for severe cases).

Teamwork & Collaboration

Dermatologists often work with GPs, plastic surgeons, oncologists, and allergists to provide the best patient care. Learning to collaborate with other medical professionals is key.

Education & Qualifications

Not everyone can become a Dermatologist overnight—it’s a long and competitive journey, but one that’s incredibly rewarding for those passionate about skin health, medicine, and helping others. What matters most is your commitment to patient care, a love of science, and the ability to keep going through years of training. Many top Dermatologists in the UK have spent over a decade progressing through medical education and specialist training before reaching consultant level.

Success in this profession is built on clinical excellence, dedication, and continuous learning. You’ll need to complete a GMC-approved medical degree, build your core clinical experience, and pass a series of professional exams. Dermatology is one of the most competitive specialties in medicine, so early exposure, research, and strong academic results can all help you stand out.

Lifestyle

A career in dermatology offers a balanced mix of social interaction and independent decision-making. Dermatologists typically enjoy regular working hours, with fewer emergencies compared to other medical fields, allowing for strong work-life balance. The field provides financial stability and flexibility, especially in private practice, where schedules can be self-managed. NHS dermatologists receive 27 to 32 days of annual leave, while those in private practice have more control over their time off. Whether in hospitals or private clinics, dermatology offers a fulfilling career with meaningful patient impact and a lifestyle that works for you.
50%
Remote Suited
Most of the work is carried out in a clinical setting face to face with clients. However, treatment plans can be analyzed remotely as well study and diagnoses.
40%
Stressful
Dermatology appointments are often routine and few of the skin conditions are life-threatening, and dermatologists rarely have to perform high-stakes procedures. This leads to a more positive work experience and lower stress levels than some other medical professions.
80%
Work Life Blance
As a dermatologist you may be able to set your own working hours and appointments allowing for better control over your schedule to have more time for personal appointments and family. It is important to notice however, that some sacrifices might be required for emergencies, on-call duties and professional development.
4.1Enjoyment
The most rewarding aspect of working in dermatology lies in the ability to positively impact patients' lives by improving their skin health and confidence, boosting self-esteem and quality of life and making a life-saving difference. As the job offers good work life balance allowing for time with friends and family, the pay reward is also highly motivating.
46/hrs
Weekly
Because patients' skin concerns often aren't time-sensitive, dermatologists usually work a predictable schedule with regular hours.

Salary Data

As a junior doctor, salaries start at £32,000 per year. Consultant dermatologists working in the NHS typically earn between £93,666 and £126,281 annually. In private practice, earnings can vary significantly based on patient volume and clinic location, with private consultant dermatologists earning anywhere from £150,000 to £300,000+ per year. Self-employed dermatologists and clinic owners have the potential for even higher earnings, depending on their practice size, specialisation, and business model.
£32,000

Entry

£93,000

Average

£126,000

Senior

Career Path

Becoming a dermatologist requires completing medical school, followed by structured training and hands-on experience to develop expertise in diagnosing and treating skin conditions.

Junior doctor / trainee dermatologists

After completing medical school you will complete a 2 year foundation training, working in different medical specialties, including general medicine and surgery. You will assist senior dermatologists with diagnosis, treatment, and minor procedures.

Dermatologist nurse

A dermatology nurse is a specialized registered nurse (RN) or nurse practitioner (NP) who focuses on skin health, treating conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and wounds. They work alongside dermatologists in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, assisting with procedures like biopsies, laser treatments, and cosmetic dermatology (e.g., Botox or chemical peels).

Dermatologist consultant.

With years of practice, dermatologists will advance to become consultants in nhs hospitals or private practices. You might choose to complete speciality training such as paediatric dermatology, which can lead to more specialized roles. Additionally, experienced dermatologists often become educators, researchers and department heads and lead multidisciplinary teams.
This structured career path offers a combination of clinical expertise, procedural skills, and opportunities for leadership and specialisation.

History of the Profession

Dermatology has played a vital role in human health and wellbeing for thousands of years, evolving from ancient herbal remedies to cutting-edge medical advancements. Early civilisations used natural treatments and minerals to care for the skin, while medieval societies often misunderstood skin diseases, associating them with divine punishment or contagion. By the 18th and 19th centuries, dermatology developed into a formal medical discipline, with the first dermatology hospitals opening in Europe and skin conditions being systematically classified.

The 20th century brought major breakthroughs, including the introduction of antibiotics, steroids, and laser technology, revolutionising both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Today, the field is at the forefront of genetic research, AI diagnostics, and regenerative medicine, offering personalised treatments for chronic conditions and new approaches to aesthetic dermatology. As technology continues to advance, dermatology remains one of the most innovative and rapidly evolving medical specialties.

Ancient Roots: The First Skin Healers

(3000 BCE - 500 CE)
Long before dermatology became a medical discipline, ancient civilisations were already developing skin treatments. The Ebers Papyrus, an Egyptian medical text dating back to 1550 BCE, described ointments made from honey, animal fats, and resins to soothe conditions such as ulcers and infections. The Greeks and Romans introduced sulphur and arsenic-based treatments for rashes, believing skin diseases were caused by imbalances in bodily humours. Meanwhile, Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine focused on herbs, acupuncture, and dietary remedies—many of which continue to influence dermatology today.

Medieval Myths & Renaissance Breakthroughs

(500 - 1700 CE)
During the Middle Ages, skin diseases were often attributed to divine punishment or seen as highly contagious. Leprosy was feared, and sufferers were sent to isolated colonies. However, the Renaissance marked a turning point—scientific study expanded, and skin diseases began to be systematically classified, laying the foundations for dermatology as a medical discipline.

The Birth of Modern Dermatology

(18th - 19th Century)
By the 18th century, dermatology was emerging as a recognised medical field, with Jean Astruc’s publications on venereal and skin diseases leading the way. In the 19th century, the first dedicated dermatology hospitals opened across Europe, focusing on scientific classification and pathological study. Physicians began examining skin at a microscopic level, ushering in an era of evidence-based dermatology.

Science Meets Skin

The 20th-Century Revolution
The 20th century saw dermatology take a technological leap forward. In the early 1900s, X-rays and radiation therapy were introduced for treating acne and psoriasis, though their risks were not yet fully understood. By the mid-20th century, major breakthroughs such as antibiotics for syphilis, steroids for eczema, and antifungal medications transformed dermatology. At the same time, cosmetic dermatology expanded, introducing skin peels, laser treatments, and plastic surgery, shaping the modern beauty industry.

21st Century & The Future of Dermatology

Today, dermatology is at the forefront of molecular biology, genetics, and AI-powered diagnostics. Biologics and targeted therapies have revolutionised the treatment of chronic conditions like eczema and melanoma, while aesthetic dermatology—including Botox, laser therapy, and fillers—has become more accessible than ever. Looking ahead, nanotechnology, regenerative medicine, and AI-driven skin analysis are expected to transform patient care, bringing new opportunities alongside ethical and accessibility challenges. As science advances, dermatology continues to evolve—bridging the gap between medical treatment, aesthetics, and cutting-edge technology.

Reviews

It is a long road to becoming a dermatologist, but the rewards are big and offer great job satisfaction including, wellness, patient care, work-life balance and pay.

Forever evolving trade

Jenni

I have been working as in the outpatient clinic within a NHS hospital now for 4 years and it has been life changing for me. Every day, I interact with a lot of clients and feel a great sense of achievements from treating and curing illnesses that my clients experience. It is an amazing world of science and the developments on treatments constantly fascinates me. I am currently studying towards becoming a paediatric dermatology doctor as I hope to be working with and helping children.

💰£85,600Annual
salary
💼45Weekly hours
🏝️0%Remote suited
🤷‍♀️30%Stressful
⚖️80%Work life balance

Next Gen Dermatologists

Jared

I teach medical students and enjoy teaching about science and techniques of dermatology and open up their minds to the possibilities and inventions still to be discovered to cure and heal. I have worked six or seven years as a mohs surgery consultant and now provide speciality training seminars around the country. I love my job, it is very rewarding being involved in this fast moving world and lead new doctors towards great things.

💰£152,000Annual
salary
💼40Weekly hours
🏝️0%Remote suited
🤷‍♀️20%Stressful
⚖️95%Work life balance

Doctor of skin

Ally J

Each day in my practice is different—one moment, I’m diagnosing common conditions like eczema or allergies or rare autoimmune skin disorders, and the next, I’m performing a cosmetic procedure like laser therapy or Botox. I also work as an NHS consultant and will treat referrals from the local GP practice. Dermatology is a unique specialty that blends medical, surgical, and aesthetic care. Each and every case is both intellectually stimulating and hands-on.

💰£97,000Annual
salary
💼48Weekly hours
🏝️50%Remote suited
🤷‍♀️60%Stressful
⚖️90%Work life balance

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Resources

For more details on dermatology, you can refer to following resources, that will give you further information to decide if this is the career for you.

Book

Dermatology Made Easy, 2nd edition

Designed to help GPs, medical students and dermatologists diagnose skin conditions with confidence.
Diagnosis is simplified by providing a comprehensive set of tables which offer differentials by symptom, morphology, or body site – including over 500 thumbnail photos.
Once you have narrowed down the diagnosis, cross-references guide you to more detailed descriptions.

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Skin cells background with title and author text in black blue and grey writing.
Course

Systematic Breakdown To Master Dermatology

This course aims to teach you the fundamentals of dermatology. You will learn the basic and advanced physiology of skin and its diseases. We will focus on high-yield topics such as eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer, among many others. This course include complex dermatological terminology for students who seek more advanced, and in-depth dive into dermatology topics. These include: pathologies of epidermal layers, systemic diseases with skin manifestation, and vascular skin lesions, among many others.
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dermatologist reviewing mole on female patients neck
Podcast

Dermasphere - The Dermatology Podcast

For dermatology practitioners, Dermasphere covers the most important updates from the latest articles and research in the field.

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Article

Is it hard to become a dermatologist in the UK?

Sreedhar takes you through the what's and how's to becoming a dermatologist.

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female dermatologist in white kilt with patients and flowers in background
Video

Normal Skin Histology

The basic normal structures of the skin discussed and described by dermatopathologist
Jerad Gardner, MD. Before you can diagnose abnormal skin conditions, you must know what normal skin looks like.

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Purple image of skin layers

Specialisms

Dermatologists can specialise in various fields depending on their interests, training, and career goals. Below are some of the key areas of specialisation:

Regulatory Bodies

As with all medical professions, dermatology is governed by strict regulations and professional standards to ensure patient safety, ethical practice, and high-quality care. Below are key regulatory bodies overseeing dermatologists in the UK.