If you’re interested in skin health but unsure whether dermatology is the right option for you, you’ll be pleased to learn there are many related careers worth exploring. The field of dermatology spans medical, surgical, cosmetic and research specialties—offering a wide array of job opportunities for those passionate about skincare and health. Whether you’re planning your education, considering a career change or simply curious, this guide will introduce you to multiple roles connected to dermatology.

Exploring dermatology jobs means more than just becoming a board-certified dermatologist. There are a variety of roles that support and work in concert with this profession and contribute to the broader field of skin care and skin disease management. 

For those interested in examining the full spectrum of dermatology career paths, here’s a breakdown of careers to consider, including what dermatologists do and how these other paths compare.

What are some related careers to a dermatologist?

Many jobs related to dermatology offer similar subject matter and serve patients with skin, hair and nail concerns, but they differ in terms of education, scope of practice and job responsibilities. Below are some of the most common and in-demand careers in and around dermatology:

  • Dermatology nurse practitioner (NP) – NPs in dermatology assess, diagnose and treat patients with skin disorders under the supervision of a physician. Many perform minor surgical procedures and cosmetic treatments.
  • Physician assistant (PA) in dermatology – Like NPs, PAs can examine patients, order diagnostic tests and provide treatments. They often specialize in general dermatology or dermatologic surgery.
  • Medical aesthetician – These professionals focus on skincare procedures that improve appearance, such as facials, chemical peels and laser therapy. Aestheticians often work in medical spas or alongside dermatologists.
  • Dermatopathologist – A subspecialty of pathology, dermatopathologists examine tissue samples under a microscope to diagnose skin conditions and cancers. This is a highly specialized role that requires additional training beyond dermatology or pathology.
  • Mohs surgeon – A dermatologist with advanced training in a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. Mohs surgery is both therapeutic and reconstructive in nature.
  • Clinical research coordinator – These professionals manage dermatology-focused clinical trials, helping develop new drugs or treatments for skin diseases.
  • Pharmaceutical sales representative (dermatology) – These reps work with skincare and dermatologic treatment companies to educate physicians on new products and treatments.

These careers each offer a different balance of patient interaction, technical expertise and workplace setting—from hospitals and clinics to research labs and corporate environments.

What is the job description of a dermatologist?

What does a dermatologist do? At its core, dermatology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails. Dermatologists are trained to identify over 3,000 conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis and skin cancer.

A typical dermatologist’s responsibilities include:

  • Conducting skin exams to diagnose diseases
  • Performing biopsies and minor surgical procedures
  • Treating cosmetic concerns like wrinkles, scars or hair loss
  • Prescribing medications, including topical treatments and biologics
  • Collaborating with other medical professionals on complex cases

Dermatologists also play a crucial role in patient education and preventive care, advising on sun protection, skin hygiene and early signs of skin cancer.

What are some careers in dermatology?

The dermatology field is broader than most people realize. In addition to physicians and nurses, a wide range of professionals support the delivery of dermatologic care. Some of these career fields in dermatology include:

  • Dermatology medical assistant – Assists with patient intake, prepares treatment rooms and supports dermatologists with minor procedures.
  • Laser technician – Certified professionals who use laser equipment for hair removal, tattoo removal and skin rejuvenation.
  • Cosmetic dermatology consultant – Often found in aesthetic practices, they help patients understand non-invasive cosmetic options and skincare regimens.
  • Skin cancer screener (mobile clinics/public health) – Trained personnel who offer initial screenings in public health outreach programs.

These roles vary in educational requirements and can be accessible with anything from a certification to a doctoral degree.

What are the 4 branches of dermatology?

There are four main dermatology career paths, each offering a distinct focus area:

  1. Medical dermatology – The diagnosis and treatment of medical skin conditions such as dermatitis, infections and autoimmune diseases.
  2. Surgical dermatology – Involves the removal of skin lesions, moles and skin cancers; includes subspecialties like Mohs surgery.
  3. Cosmetic dermatology – Focused on enhancing appearance through Botox, fillers, lasers and skincare treatments.
  4. Dermatopathology – A diagnostic discipline that bridges dermatology and pathology, analyzing tissue samples to diagnose complex skin diseases.

Professionals often subspecialize within these branches, allowing them to focus their expertise and offer targeted care or procedures.

Whether you’re drawn to patient care, surgical techniques, aesthetic improvement or clinical research, dermatology offers a wide landscape of professional options. Careers related to dermatology are not limited to becoming a physician—there are many meaningful roles that allow individuals to make a difference in the field of skin health.

If you’re considering a career in this dynamic specialty, explore more articles on dermatology jobs and dermatology career paths in the PracticeLink Resource Center.