What About Dermatology?
Dermatology is a specialty that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of over 3,000 conditions related to skin. A scope from head to toe with treatments ranging from noninvasive to surgical, as well as cosmetic! Rash, acne, dry irritated skin, hair loss, those annoying red bumps on your legs from shaving? Not only can they save your life by catching a suspicious mole, but they can also make you look and feel more confident in your appearance. For over 200 years, dermatology has been in practice with its debut at the opening of a hospital in Paris, France. Dermatology arrived in America, New York City, in the early 1800's.
Upon its creation it was called a few things before we landed on dermatology. In the early 18th century it was referred to as "dermiatry", "dermology" or "dermophily". What does the word dermatology mean? It is derived from Greek with the root word being "derma/dermato", meaning skin or of the skin and "logy" which is the study of. What does it take to become a dermatologist? Twelve years of school, internship and residency. You must obtain a bachelor degree (4 years), medical school (4 years), at least a one year internship and three to four years of medical residency. I think I will continue to see my dermatologist, as opposed to become one since I am only just now completing my associates degree.