Dermatology offers a wide array of career paths for individuals passionate about skin health, cosmetic procedures and medical research. Whether you’re interested in treating common skin conditions or exploring specialized treatments, the field of dermatology provides numerous opportunities. 

As a healthcare specialty, dermatology is known for offering both financial rewards and job satisfaction. For those looking into dermatology careers, there are various paths to choose from, each with unique challenges and rewards. If you are exploring your options in dermatology jobs, this guide will help you understand the different career paths in dermatology, the types of dermatology and which specialties offer the highest salaries.

What is the career path for a dermatologist?

Dermatology career paths typically begin with an undergraduate degree followed by medical school and a residency in dermatology. Upon completion of a dermatology residency program, dermatologists may choose to pursue additional fellowships to specialize further in specific areas of dermatology. The career path for a dermatologist can vary depending on the individual’s interests, such as pursuing a general dermatology practice, focusing on cosmetic procedures or engaging in research and teaching.

The steps involved in becoming a dermatologist include:

  • Undergraduate education: A four-year bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, typically with a focus on biology or chemistry.
  • Medical school: Four years of medical school to obtain a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.
  • Dermatology residency: A highly competitive, three-year residency program in dermatology.
  • Fellowships (Optional): Additional specialized training in fields such as dermatologic surgery, pediatric dermatology or cosmetic dermatology.

Once established in their career, dermatologists may choose to work in private practices, hospitals or academic settings, where they can also engage in teaching or research.

What are the four types of dermatology?

In dermatology, there are four primary types of practice, each catering to different needs and patient demographics. These include general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, pediatric dermatology and dermatologic surgery. Each type of dermatologist job description and practice has its unique job description and specialization.

  1. General dermatology: This involves the diagnosis and treatment of common skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. General dermatologists also treat skin cancers and perform routine skin checks.
  2. Cosmetic dermatology: Focusing on enhancing the appearance of the skin, cosmetic dermatologists perform procedures like Botox injections, chemical peels and laser treatments. They often deal with skin aging, scarring and other aesthetic concerns.
  3. Pediatric dermatology: This subspecialty focuses on diagnosing and treating skin conditions in infants, children and adolescents. Pediatric dermatologists must be familiar with conditions like eczema, birthmarks and rare genetic skin disorders.
  4. Dermatologic surgery: These dermatologists specialize in surgical procedures to treat skin conditions, including skin cancer removal, Mohs surgery and other reconstructive procedures.

Each type of dermatology offers distinct career paths, depending on the interests of the individual dermatologist.

What type of dermatology pays the most?

Dermatologists can specialize in fields with varying income potentials. Some subspecialties are known for offering higher salaries, particularly those that deal with cosmetic procedures or high-demand treatments.

The highest-paying dermatology salary by state are typically found in areas where demand for dermatologic services is high. States like California, New York and Florida tend to offer higher salaries for dermatologists due to the larger population and higher living costs. Cosmetic dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons tend to earn more than general dermatologists due to the specialized nature of their work.

As demand for cosmetic dermatology services grows, many practitioners in this field can earn significantly higher than those in general dermatology.

What type of dermatologist makes the most money?

When it comes to earning potential, dermatologists who specialize in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery tend to make the most money. These dermatologists perform high-revenue procedures such as Botox injections, dermal fillers, laser treatments and complex surgeries, all of which have substantial financial rewards.

Cosmetic dermatologists who operate in large metropolitan areas often have lucrative practices, with high patient volumes and premium prices for their services. Additionally, dermatologic surgeons who focus on skin cancer treatment, particularly Mohs surgery, can also command higher fees due to the specialized skills required.

A common question to ask would be: Which type of Dermatologist makes the most money?

Among the highest-earning dermatologists, those specializing in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery top the list. For example, dermatologic surgeons who perform Mohs surgery, a precise surgical technique for removing skin cancer, can command significantly higher fees compared to general dermatologists.

What are the subspecialties of dermatology?

In dermatology, subspecialties offer physicians the opportunity to focus on aspects of skin care, from pediatric dermatology to advanced skin cancer treatments. These subspecialties require additional training after completing a dermatology residency, and they provide dermatologists with expertise in specific areas of skin health.

Some common dermatology school requirements for subspecialties include:

  1. Pediatric dermatology: Focuses on treating skin conditions in children and requires specialized training in pediatric medicine.
  2. Dermatopathology: Involves the study of skin diseases at the microscopic level and requires a fellowship in dermatopathology.
  3. Mohs surgery: A highly specialized field focusing on the surgical removal of skin cancers, particularly those on the face, requiring additional training in Mohs micrographic surgery.

These subspecialties allow dermatologists to focus on specific areas of skin care, providing both financial rewards and job satisfaction.

What is the highest paid dermatology specialty?

Among dermatology specialties, cosmetic dermatology is considered one of the highest-paid fields. Cosmetic dermatologists who perform elective procedures like Botox injections, chemical peels and laser treatments have the potential to earn substantial salaries. These procedures are often in high demand, especially in areas with higher disposable incomes.

What is the highest paid type of dermatologist in the USA? 

In the USA, cosmetic dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons are generally considered the highest-paid types of dermatologists. Their procedures, often elective and non-reimbursed by insurance, tend to generate more revenue compared to the treatments offered by general dermatologists. The growing popularity of non-invasive procedures for skin rejuvenation contributes to the high earning potential in this field.

What is the highest paying job in dermatology?

The highest-paying job in dermatology often involves working in cosmetic dermatology or dermatologic surgery. Cosmetic dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons who perform specialized procedures or surgeries can command premium prices for their services. These positions often require highly specialized training, but the financial rewards are significant.

The dermatologist salary varies widely depending on their specialty and geographic location. On average, dermatologists earn well above the national median for physicians, with those in cosmetic and surgical specialties earning the highest monthly salaries. For example, a cosmetic dermatologist in a high-demand market could earn a substantial income, often exceeding the average salary for general practitioners.

The field of dermatology offers a wide variety of career paths, each with its own set of rewards and challenges. From general dermatology to specialized fields such as cosmetic dermatology or dermatologic surgery, the options for aspiring dermatologists are vast. Whether you’re looking for a high-paying job in dermatology or are interested in working with pediatric or elderly patients, there’s a path that fits your interests and financial goals.

If you’re ready to begin your journey in the world of dermatology jobs, consider which path aligns with your skills and passion. To explore current available dermatology jobs in your area, check out PracticeLink’s renowned physician job board by clicking here.