What Is Cosmetic Dermatology?

By Dr. Stephen Cosentino

When considering your next Botox® or dermal filler treatment, you might be surprised to learn that the person performing the procedure could be a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, physician's assistant, general practitioner, or even a dentist. This diversity in practitioners is because any appropriately licensed medical professional can undergo cosmetic dermatology training and perform these procedures under relevant state laws.

But what is cosmetic dermatology, and what does it entail?

Cosmetic Dermatology Defined

Cosmetic dermatology is a specialized medical practice that focuses on skin rejuvenation and beautification. It encompasses any cosmetic procedures that involve the skin and underlying tissues or produce direct and visible changes to the appearance or overall health of the skin.

Common Cosmetic Dermatology Procedures

Whether you want to smooth fine lines, improve skin texture, or achieve a more youthful appearance, these popular procedures can help you achieve your aesthetic goals with minimal downtime and remarkable results.

Botox® injections: A popular non-surgical solution to reduce wrinkles and fine lines by temporarily relaxing facial muscles.
Dermal filler treatments: Fillers add volume and smooth out deep wrinkles, offering a youthful, rejuvenated appearance.
Chemical peels: A skin resurfacing treatment that removes damaged outer layers to improve skin texture, tone, and clarity.
Microdermabrasion: A gentle exfoliating treatment that enhances skin brightness and reduces imperfections like fine lines and age spots.
Laser hair removal
Laser skin resurfacing: This treatment helps diminish skin imperfections such as scars, sun damage, and wrinkles, revealing fresher, smoother skin.
Photofacials: Utilizing light therapy, photofacials target sunspots, broken capillaries, and other skin discolorations to achieve an even complexion.
Scar revision: Tailored treatments designed to minimize the appearance of scars, restoring a more even and smooth skin texture.
Non-surgical fat reduction: Advanced techniques like cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting®) help eliminate stubborn fat cells without surgery, offering a slimmer, contoured appearance.

Cosmetic vs. Medical Dermatology

It's important to note that not all dermatology procedures are considered cosmetic. For instance, skin cancer removal is a dermatologic medical treatment that's medically necessary, unlike elective procedures such as Botox® or chemical peels. However, some procedures, like post-surgical scar removal, may straddle the line between medical and cosmetic dermatology.

Who Practices Cosmetic Dermatology?

While board-certified dermatologists, often referred to as cosmetic dermatologists, are known for their expertise in the field, they're not the only medical professionals who can perform cosmetic dermatology procedures. Depending on applicable state laws, the following types of medical providers may be qualified to perform these treatments:

Board-certified dermatologists
Plastic surgeons
General practitioners
Nurse practitioners
Physician assistants
Registered nurses (under supervision)
Dentists (for certain facial procedures)

It's worth noting that board-certified physicians, surgeons, and dentists may also practice or supervise aesthetic medical treatments that aren't strictly dermatologic in nature. These may include hormone replacement therapy, subcutaneous fat removal procedures, and plastic surgery procedures that involve tissues deeper than the lower layers of skin.

Proper Training and Certification

Regardless of their medical background, all cosmetic dermatology practitioners should undergo specialized training. This ensures they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform these treatments safely and effectively.

Many institutions, including Empire Medical Training, offer comprehensive courses in aesthetic medicine, covering everything from basic injection techniques to advanced laser treatments. These programs are designed to equip medical professionals with the latest techniques and best practices in cosmetic dermatology.

Choosing the Right Practitioner

When considering a cosmetic dermatology procedure, while it may seem obvious, it's important to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner. Here are some factors to consider:

Credentials and qualifications
Experience with the specific procedure you're interested in
Before and after photos of previous patients
Patient reviews and testimonials
Comfort level during the consultation

Don't hesitate to ask questions about the practitioner's training, experience, and the expected results of the procedure. A reputable professional will be happy to address your concerns and provide detailed information about the treatment process.

The Future of Cosmetic Dermatology

As the field of cosmetic dermatology advances, groundbreaking technologies and techniques are transforming how we approach skincare and aesthetic treatments. The future promises exciting innovations that will offer more personalized, effective, and less invasive options for enhancing and rejuvenating the skin. From cutting-edge injectables to the rise of regenerative medicine, the possibilities are expanding rapidly, ushering in a new era of beauty and skin health.

Some exciting developments on the horizon include:

More targeted and long-lasting injectables
Advanced laser and light-based therapies
Personalized skincare treatments based on genetic analysis
Body contouring technologies
Regenerative medicine applications in skin rejuvenation

These innovations promise to make cosmetic dermatology procedures more effective, less invasive, and more accessible to a wider range of patients.

Wrapping It All Up

Cosmetic dermatology is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field that offers a wide range of treatments to help people look and feel their best. While board-certified dermatologists are often at the forefront of this specialty, many other medical professionals can perform these procedures with proper training and certification.

As a patient, it's important to do your research, choose a qualified practitioner, and have realistic expectations about the results of any cosmetic procedure. With the right approach, cosmetic dermatology can be a powerful tool for enhancing your appearance and boosting your confidence.

Remember, whether you're considering Botox®, dermal fillers, or any other cosmetic dermatology treatment, the key to a successful outcome lies in the hands of a skilled and experienced practitioner. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek the best care possible for your aesthetic needs.