How is cosmetic dermatology different from medical dermatology?

Dermatology encompasses two distinct but complementary branches that address different aspects of skin health and appearance. Medico-dental care primarily focuses on diagnosing and treating skin diseases, dermatology treatment for eczema, psoriasis, infections, and skin cancer. The priority in medical dermatology is restoring normal skin function and preventing disease complications. Cosmetic Dermatology emphasises enhancing the skin’s appearance rather than treating medical conditions. These procedures aim to improve aesthetic concerns like wrinkles, volume loss, skin texture, and discolouration that aren’t medically necessary but may impact confidence and satisfaction with appearance. The field continues to expand with innovative treatments that provide results with minimal downtime.

Purpose and goals

Medical dermatology addresses health needs where treatment is necessary for proper bodily function or to prevent more serious complications. Dermatologists diagnose and treat hundreds of skin, hair, nail, and mucous membrane conditions. In treating chronic conditions, recurrent symptoms are resolved, and chronic conditions are managed. Success is measured by improvement in physical health markers and resolution of pathological processes. Cosmetic procedures, by contrast, focus on elective enhancements to healthy skin. These treatments aim to reverse signs of ageing, correct cosmetic imperfections, or enhance features according to aesthetic preferences. Since these interventions address appearance rather than medical necessity, success is evaluated through patient satisfaction and visible improvements in targeted concerns. The goal shifts from necessary treatment to desired enhancement.

Treatment focus

• Medical dermatologists primarily treat conditions like acne, rosacea, dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin cancers
• Preventing and detecting melanomas early is a critical component of medical care
• Allergic reactions, infections, and autoimmune conditions affecting the skin fall under medical dermatology
• Prescription medications, including topical treatments, oral medications, and biologics, are common medical interventions
• Surgical procedures like biopsies, excisions, and Mohs surgery address medical rather than cosmetic concerns
• Phototherapy and laser treatments for conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo serve medical purposes

Training pathways

Both specialities require completion of medical school and dermatology residency, making all practitioners board-certified dermatologists. Medical dermatology represents the core training that all dermatologists receive during their residency programs. This includes diagnosing and managing hundreds of skin conditions affecting patients of all ages. Cosmetic specialisation typically involves additional fellowship training or continuing education on aesthetic procedures. These programs provide advanced training in injectables, laser technologies, chemical peels, and other cosmetic interventions. Many practitioners focus on both aspects, offering comprehensive care that addresses medical needs and aesthetic concerns. The overlap allows for a holistic approach that considers both health and appearance.

Consultation process

Medical consultations follow a traditional medical model focused on symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. An experienced dermatologist will ask about the onset, duration, progression, and any medications or remedies. Genetic conditions such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis are frequently influenced by family history. The examination focuses on identifying pathological changes in the skin that indicate specific conditions. Cosmetic consultations include more discussion of aesthetic goals and desired outcomes. Providers may use imaging technology to analyse facial structure, skin texture, and signs of ageing. Treatment planning considers facial balance, proportions, and natural-looking results rather than simply addressing a medical condition. Expectations management becomes critical since the goal is satisfaction with appearance rather than disease resolution.