A dermatologist is a doctor who treats conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, hair loss, allergies, and skin cancers. Dermatology is a branch of medicine that deals with the study, diagnosis, and treatment of skin, hair, and nail diseases.
In India, becoming a dermatologist requires many years of medical study and training. It is one of the most respected and rewarding medical specializations, especially because of the growing awareness about skincare and cosmetic treatments.
Who is a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who is expert in skin, hair, and nail health. They can treat medical skin problems as well as cosmetic concerns.
Some dermatologists also perform minor surgeries and cosmetic procedures like laser therapy, botox, and chemical peels.
There are two main types of dermatologists in India:
- Clinical Dermatologist – Focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases of the skin, hair, and nails.
- Cosmetic Dermatologist – Focuses on improving appearance through cosmetic procedures like fillers, laser treatments, and anti-aging therapy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Dermatologist in India
Let’s understand the complete journey step by step.
Step 1: Complete Class 12th with Science
The first step is to complete Class 12th (10+2) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) as compulsory subjects.
- Minimum marks required: 50% aggregate (for general category; 40% for reserved category)
- You must have Biology as your main subject because it is essential for MBBS admission.
Step 2: Appear for NEET-UG Exam
After Class 12th, you must appear for the NEET-UG. This is a national-level medical entrance exam conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency).
- NEET-UG is mandatory to get admission into the MBBS program.
- The exam includes questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Class 11 and 12 syllabus).
- Admission to all government and private medical colleges in India is based on NEET-UG scores.
Step 3: Complete MBBS Degree (5.5 Years)
Once you qualify NEET-UG, you can take admission in an MBBS program in a recognized medical college.
- Duration: 5.5 years (4.5 years of academic study + 1 year of compulsory internship)
- During MBBS, you study various subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, and Clinical Medicine.
- In the internship year, you get hands-on experience in different hospital departments, including dermatology.
Step 4: Appear for NEET-PG Exam
After completing MBBS and internship, you must clear the NEET-PG (Postgraduate) exam to get admission into an MD program.
- NEET-PG is also conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).
- Your NEET-PG rank decides whether you can get admission into MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy – the postgraduate course required to become a dermatologist.
Step 5: Pursue MD in Dermatology (3 Years)
Once you qualify NEET-PG and secure a seat, you can join MD (Doctor of Medicine) in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy.
- Duration: 3 years
- Course Content: Clinical Dermatology, Venereology (Sexually transmitted diseases), Leprosy, Dermatosurgery, Laser Therapy, and Cosmetic Dermatology.
- During these 3 years, you will gain practical experience in treating skin, hair, and nail diseases.
Step 6: Obtain Medical Registration
After completing your MD in Dermatology, you must register with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or your State Medical Council to legally practice as a dermatologist.
Step 7: Optional Super-Specialization (DM or Fellowships)
After MD Dermatology, you can go for further specialization if you want to gain expertise in a particular field.
Super-specialization or fellowship options include:
- Fellowship in Cosmetic Dermatology
- Fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology
- Fellowship in Dermatosurgery
- Fellowship in Aesthetic Medicine
- Fellowship in Laser and Hair Transplant
These fellowships usually last from 6 months to 2 years and are available in India and abroad.
Dermatology Courses in India
Here’s a list of the main dermatology courses in India:
| Course Name | Duration | Eligibility | Level |
| MBBS | 5.5 years | 10+2 with PCB + NEET-UG | Undergraduate |
| MD in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy | 3 years | MBBS + NEET-PG | Postgraduate |
| Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy (DDVL) | 2 years | MBBS | Postgraduate Diploma |
| DNB in Dermatology | 3 years | MBBS + NEET-PG | Equivalent to MD |
| Fellowship in Cosmetic Dermatology | 6 months – 2 years | MD/DNB in Dermatology | Super-specialization |
Top Colleges for Dermatology in India
Some of the best medical colleges in India for studying dermatology are:
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune
- Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
- Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), New Delhi
- Grant Medical College, Mumbai
- Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry
- King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow
- Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh
Dermatologist Salary in India
The salary of a dermatologist depends on experience, skills, and place of work.
| Level | Average Monthly Salary |
| During Internship | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Resident Doctor (MD) | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| Fresh Dermatologist | ₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Experienced Dermatologist | ₹2 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
| Private Clinic Owner | ₹3 lakh – ₹10 lakh+ |
Dermatology is one of the most profitable branches in medicine because it combines clinical work with cosmetic treatments, which are in high demand in India.
Skills Required to Become a Dermatologist
To be a successful dermatologist, you need the following skills:
- Strong knowledge of human skin and related diseases
- Good observation and analytical skills
- Patience and attention to detail
- Empathy and good communication
- Steady hands for minor surgical procedures
- Interest in cosmetic treatments and laser technology
Career Options for Dermatologists in India
After becoming a dermatologist, you can choose from many career options:
- Government Hospitals – Work as a dermatologist in government medical colleges and hospitals.
- Private Hospitals and Clinics – Join private healthcare organizations as a consultant.
- Own Clinic – Open your own dermatology or cosmetic clinic.
- Cosmetic Industry – Work with skincare and cosmetic brands.
- Medical Colleges – Work as a lecturer or professor.
- Research – Conduct research in dermatological science.
- Tele-dermatology – Offer online consultations to patients.
Job Roles in Dermatology
- Clinical Dermatologist
- Cosmetic Dermatologist
- Pediatric Dermatologist
- Trichologist (Hair Specialist)
- Dermatosurgeon
- Aesthetic Laser Specialist
- Skin Consultant
Dermatology Course Fees in India
| Course | Average Fees (per year) |
| MBBS | ₹5 lakh – ₹25 lakh |
| MD Dermatology | ₹3 lakh – ₹20 lakh |
| Diploma in Dermatology | ₹1 lakh – ₹10 lakh |
| Fellowship (private institutes) | ₹2 lakh – ₹10 lakh |
Fees vary depending on the college type – government or private.
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Dermatologist
Pros:
- High demand and good income.
- Less emergency cases compared to other specialties.
- Good work-life balance.
- Opportunity to open a private clinic.
- Growing scope in cosmetic dermatology.
Cons:
- Long academic journey (minimum 10–12 years).
- Expensive medical education.
- High competition in entrance exams.
- Continuous need for skill updates.
Conclusion
Becoming a dermatologist in India requires patience, hard work, and dedication to medical study. Starting from Class 12th, through MBBS and MD, you can build a successful career in both clinical and cosmetic dermatology.
With rising awareness about skin health and aesthetics, the scope of dermatology in India is bright. Whether you want to work in hospitals, open your own clinic, or specialize in cosmetic treatments, dermatology offers great professional satisfaction and financial stability.
FAQs
Q1. How many years does it take to become a dermatologist in India?
It takes around 11–12 years (including MBBS, internship, MD, and training).
Q2. Can I become a dermatologist after 12th?
Yes. After 12th with PCB, you need to clear NEET-UG, complete MBBS, and then MD in Dermatology.
Q3. Is dermatology a good career in India?
Yes, dermatology is a high-demand, high-income, and respected medical field with a good work-life balance.
Q4. What is the difference between a dermatologist and a cosmetologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who treats skin diseases, while a cosmetologist focuses mainly on beauty treatments.
Q5. Can dermatologists do cosmetic treatments like Botox or Laser?
Yes, dermatologists with proper training can perform cosmetic treatments like Botox, fillers, and laser therapy.
Q6. Is NEET required for dermatology?
Yes, NEET-UG is required for MBBS, and NEET-PG is required for MD Dermatology.