What Is Dermatology?

Dermatology is a medical specialty that focuses on the treatment and management of skin conditions. This branch of medicine also treats conditions of the hair and nails, and it includes both surgical and non-surgical treatments. Dermatologists perform physical examinations, prescribe medications, administer injections, and perform surgery. They can treat a variety of concerns, including skin cancer, dry skin, cysts, hair loss, and scars. Dermatologists have a minimum of twelve years of training, and some dermatologists may choose to specialize in the treatment of pediatric patients. Other dermatologists specialize in Mohs surgery, an operation designed to remove skin cancer, and dermatologists can also specialize in dermatopathology, a discipline that uses microscopic investigation to diagnose skin diseases.