The Difference Between Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology

When it comes to skin care, there are two distinct types of dermatology: medical and cosmetic. Medical dermatology focuses on treating skin-related health issues, while cosmetic dermatology is all about improving the appearance of the skin. While some dermatologists specialize in medical problems and skin-related hazards, others choose to focus on aesthetic problems and cosmetic applications of dermatology. Cosmetic dermatology is a subspecialty of dermatology, and professionals often receive additional training.

A cosmetic dermatologist primarily treats patients who want to look better, even when they have no medical need to do so. Cosmetic dermatology procedures are used to treat more than 5 million patients a year.Cosmetic dermatologists are the doctors you go to when you want to improve your appearance in addition to treating your skin problems. These doctors are still trained to perform surgical procedures, but they also focus on helping you look good while treating serious medical conditions. Nor is this highly qualified expert anything less than a trained and qualified MD.

Instead, this dermatologist has all the skills and training of a regular dermatologist, but with a special additional focus on cosmetic treatments that can complement and improve skin health.Today, it seems that there are a million different “-ologists” in the world, particularly in the field of medicine. And although new specialties emerge every year, the evidence of medical and cosmetic dermatology goes back thousands of years to ancient Egyptian and Asian traditions. But what is the difference between these skin “-ologies” in today's rapidly evolving medical landscape?Medical dermatology focuses on health, while cosmetic dermatology focuses on aesthetic appeal. For example, medical dermatology will treat conditions such as eczema, but cosmetic dermatology will help treat scars, wrinkles, and fine lines.

While cosmetic dermatologists can treat skin problems in addition to improving the appearance, medical dermatologists focus solely on treating ailments to reduce health risks. If you have any skin-related medical problems along with significant cosmetic problems, you'll want to see a cosmetic dermatologist.When looking for treatments for your skin, you'll quickly discover that there is more than one type of dermatologist. Cosmetic dermatology serves patients who seek to maintain their youthful appearance by reversing signs of aging or who want to make aesthetic changes or improvements to their skin. This is just one of the reasons to seek qualified and experienced dermatologists who can accurately diagnose your condition and help you get exactly the treatment you need.Medical and surgical dermatologists help treat conditions that affect skin health and appearance.

Some of the most common conditions addressed by medical dermatology are eczema, acne and psoriasis. And there are some very good reasons why you should seek your cosmetic treatments at licensed dermatologists rather than at a spa.Spurlin and his team at Pinnacle Dermatology are committed to treating skin conditions, as well as improving your overall appearance in the process. Patients who want to look and feel younger can benefit more if they consult with an aesthetic dermatologist.Referral to these specialists often occurs after the patient has consulted with a medical dermatologist. This dermatology specialty involves the removal and removal of tumors, moles and cancers, and includes any procedure that requires anesthesia or incision.

Then there are all the spas that offer cosmetic treatments performed by “professionals” and “estheticians” with no qualified dermatologists on site.If you are considering any cosmetic dermatology treatment or simply want to learn more about what is available, schedule a consultation with one of our caring Derick Dermatology professionals. We have offices to serve you in Arlington Heights, Barrington, Bartlett, Buffalo Grove, Crystal Lake, Elgin, Libertyville, Lindenhurst, McHenry, Park Ridge, Naperville and soon Oak Brook.