Making a Choice

What sort of training do dermatologists undergo and how does one go about choosing the right skin specialist?

The skin is more than just a simple covering for the body. It is the largest and most visible organ of the body and usually reflects the inner health of an individual. Nearly everyone has some type of skin problem at one time or another. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist as soon as possible when symptoms of skin disease appear.

Select a competent dermatologist for help regarding skin treatment and enhancement procedures. A dermatologist is a doctor of medicine who specializes in the care of the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membrane (the “wet skin” of the mouth and genital area).

Anything that has something to do with the skin – pathological (skin diseases) and cosmetic (improvement or enhancement of the appearance of the skin) is the province of a dermatologist. When you go to a “derma”, be sure it is actually a dermatologist you go to, not a beautician, cosmetician, cosmetologist, nurse or so-called skin therapist.

After graduating from medical school and passing the medical licensure examination given by the Professional Regulations Commission, a would-be dermatologist has to undergo another three years of specialized training in dermatology in an accredited residency training program.

After residency, a dermatologist is required to pass the written, practical and oral specialty examinations of the Philippine Board of Dermatology (PBD). Only then is a dermatologist considered “board-certified”.

Having had the proper training, a dermatologists is the best person to perform certain procedures such as skin biopsy (getting a piece of skin for diagnosis) or acne surgery (removal of whiteheads and blackheads, or injection of acne cysts, and nodules), scalpel surgery on the skin, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, and chemical exfoliation (peeling), for treating skin diseases or improving skin appearance.

1a dermatologist can also have further special training in dermatopathology, liposuction, sclerotherapy, the use of different dermatologic lasers, among others.

Even after the board certification, dermatologists must keep themselves up-to-date on the latest advances in the field of dermatology by attending continuing education activities to meet the ever-changing medical challenges and developments.

The emphasis on training and background is not meant to discriminate among practitioners; it is for the protection of the patient who will be put under the mercy of the practitioner. You should base your choice of a dermatologist on qualification, not on advertising.