The role of a dermatologist

A dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in skin health. A dermatologist can help you with medical or cosmetic concerns to do with your skin, hair and nails. They treat many conditions, including skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, acne, alopecia and skin infections such as dermatitis herpetiformis.

Dermatologists are trained specialist doctors who have done their general medical training and 4 more years of specialty training through the Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD).

You may see a dermatologist in private practice, day clinics and public or private hospitals. Many dermatologists also service regional, rural and remote areas of Australia through medical outreach programs.

What is the difference between a paediatric dermatologist and a dermatologist?

Paediatric dermatologists have the training and experience to diagnose and treat skin and related conditions in children. Sometimes dermatologists who are not specifically paediatric dermatologists will work with paediatricians and general practitioners (GPs) to manage skin problems in children.

If you are worried about a skin problem, visit your GP first. They may treat you themselves or refer you to a dermatologist if you need specialised care.

If you notice a mole that has changed shape, size or colour, ask your GP if you should see a dermatologist. A new or changing mole can be a sign of melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer.

If you have a high risk of skin cancer, regular skin checks with a doctor are important. Your GP or dermatologist can tell you how often you should have your skin checked.

If you are thinking about having a cosmetic procedure, it is important to understand the risks and make sure the provider is safe. Before booking any non-essential treatment, check your state or territory's health department website and speak to your GP or dermatologist.

You can also read the healthdirect guide to cosmetic surgery.

During your appointment, a dermatologist will ask you about your medical history and your symptoms. They will ask how these affect your daily life. They will physically examine the affected area on your body. Your dermatologist may diagnose you and explain the different treatment options. These may include:

• medicines, such as creams, ointments or tablets
• surgery, such as excisions (where a part of your skin is removed)
• procedures, such as biopsies
• self-care, such as diet changes, bandages or dressings

You can then decide if you would like to go ahead with the suggested treatment and discuss next steps. Sometimes it may take a few appointments for a full diagnosis and to find a treatment that helps.

It is important to ask questions about anything you do not understand when speaking with your dermatologist. You can also take notes during the visit.

Your questions might cover why you have symptoms, what tests you need, how your condition is treated and what follow-up you need.

You can ask your GP, a friend or family member to recommend a good dermatologist.

The healthdirect online Service Finder can help you locate a dermatologist in your local area.

It is best to have a referral from your GP so that you can claim some or all of the costs back through Medicare. Your GP can provide you with a referral for your appointment.

The cost for an appointment with a dermatologist will depend on their fees and your needs and may change at any time. Fees differ for public and private patients.

If you see a dermatologist at a public hospital or health service, your visit may be covered by Medicare (with a referral). If you see a dermatologist privately, ask about fees, charges and rebates when you make your appointment.

Find out more about the differences between public and private healthcare.

• The Melanoma Institute of Australia offers information on skin cancer and melanoma, including a guide on how to check your skin and when to see your doctor.
• The Cancer Council's page on what to ask your doctor can help you prepare for your appointment if you are concerned about skin cancer.
• The Australian College of Dermatologists also offers information on a range of skin conditions, as well as advice and guidelines about what cosmetic procedures should be performed by a dermatologist and what can be done at a commercial practice.

Languages other than English

• For more information on skin health and dermatology in other languages, visit the Australian College of Dermatologists' page for podcasts in languages such as Arabic, Hindi and Spanish.
• The Melanoma Institute of Australia offers patient information brochures in other languages.

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

• Cancer Council has support and information about protecting your skin for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• The Kids Research Institute Australia has safe skin booklets for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Eczema Support Australia has an eczema resource for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.