It is widely understood that individuals who work in the medical community must undergo a rigorous training and educational process. During their training, they learn about how the human body works, pharmaceuticals and also how to interact with their patients. Then all of the training they receive at their university is put into practice as they go through a multiple-year residency.

Although all doctors receive extensive training, some doctors are more qualified and better trained than others. Proof of this training is seen in the certifications they receive. For example, a dermatologist who is board-certified has received a level of training and has a level of experience that other medical professionals in the field may not possess.

What Does a Dermatologist Do?

They specialize in addressing issues with the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes that cover the inside of our mouth and nose. The work that they do is a lot more extensive than most people think. In fact, they are trained to deal with over 3,000 different diseases. These diseases range from the serious, such as skin cancer, to other diseases that are not life-threatening, such as nail infections.

Dermatologists have the responsibility to improve the way that their patient’s skin looks, make their hair look more vibrant and improve the strength and functionality of the nails. It is important to understand that when a person has healthy skin, it is not just a matter of them looking better. The healthier a person’s skin is, the better their skin does at protecting them from pollutants and other would-be invaders from outside the body. Healthy skin usually means a healthy person.

In addition to addressing medical concerns, cosmetic dermatologists focus on the aesthetics of the skin. They may help an individual reduce the number of wrinkles they have, address age spots and deal with the negative effects the sun might have on a person’s skin.

Dermatologists will help with both the medical and the aesthetic problems that stem from acne and acne scars. They may perform cosmetic procedures to improve an individual’s appearance after a surgery that removes skin cancer cells. Dermatologists can treat patients from newborns all the way to those who are over 100 years old.

What About a Board-Certified Dermatologist?

In order to become board-certified, a doctor must complete more years of education. In addition to the bachelor’s degree, medical school and internship, they need to do a three-year dermatology residency program.

Once they have their license to practice medicine, they need to take examinations provided by the American Board of Dermatology. The board exams will test the dermatologist’s knowledge and will also put their experience to the test. Before becoming board-certified, the dermatologist must be able to prove in no uncertain terms that they are able to provide the quality of care their patients need.

There was a time when a board-certified dermatologist was certified for life. Now, advances in technology are moving so rapidly that dermatologists must retake their certification test every 10 years to make sure that they have a firm grasp on the newest techniques.

Get the Best Care Possible with Dr. Rao

Dr. Rao is board-certified in both Dermatology and Dermatopathology, making him a true expert in his field. If you ever encounter an issue with your skin, hair or nails, visit Rao Dermatology, with offices in Manhattan, Woodbridge, Atlantic Highlands, Hanford and Fresno. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.