When it comes to issues related to the skin, choosing a board certified dermatologist for treatment is vital to attaining the best result. These medical professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating skin, nails, and hair conditions. In addition, dermatologists perform non-surgical rejuvenation treatments to reduce the signs of aging and address scarring.
What Is the Difference Between a Dermatologist and a Board Certified Dermatologist?
A board certified dermatologist has taken their medical degree a step further. To become certified, a dermatologist must complete an exam to indicate their mastery of dermatology knowledge and skills.
Simply put, a board certified dermatologist has advanced knowledge, training, and skills in treating health issues related to skin, hair, and nails.
The Path to Becoming a Board Certified Dermatologist
The American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) offers the board certification exam for dermatologists. Upon successful completion, it allows a dermatologist to present to the public as a qualified medical specialist in dermatology. A certified dermatologist also adheres to the ABPS’ Medical Code of Ethics.
Steps to certification include:
- Completing 4 years of medical school.
- Completing an accredited internship program that lasts 12 months.
- Completing a three-year accredited residency program focusing on dermatology. This program requires that the physician receive training and supervision from board certified dermatologists. Training must include a specific curriculum that concentrates on the physician’s development of knowledge in the field of dermatology, as well as clinical competency in certain areas.
- Before working independently, the dermatologist must complete at least 10,000 hours of training, typically taking more than 2.5 years.
- Once certified, the dermatologist must participate in at least 25 hours of continuing education each year to maintain their credentials.
- ABPS certification lasts for 8 years. At this time, the dermatologist must take another test to maintain their board certified status.
Why You Should Choose a Board Certified Dermatologist
While a dermatologist has medical training, the board certified dermatologist has taken additional steps to specialize in this field of care. Dedication to a specific area of medicine allows a physician to provide patients with the high-quality care they deserve. For this reason, you should choose a board certified dermatologist to address any issues you are experiencing that relate to your skin, hair or nails.
Skin Conditions Board Certified Dermatologists Treat
Dermatologists recognize, diagnose and treat a variety of skin conditions.
These skin conditions include:
- Acne.
- Psoriasis.
- Eczema.
- Rosacea.
- Skin cancer.
- Warts.
These are just a few of the skin conditions that the board certified dermatologists at Valley Skin Institute can treat. To see additional conditions, please click here.
Rejuvenation Treatments Available at Valley Skin Institute
Additionally, dermatologists frequently perform non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments. At Valley Skin Institute, men and women in and around Fresno, California, receive a variety of skin rejuvenation treatments.
Rejuvenation treatments include:
- BOTOX injections.
- Dermal filler injections (e.g., JUVÉDERM, Jeuveau).
- Microneedling.
- Chemical peels.
- Laser treatments.
Skincare Options at Valley Skin Institute
The high-quality skincare products available at Valley Skin Institute are designed to gently cleanse, protect and condition your skin. In addition, there are products available to reduce the visibility of aging and scarring.
Since our skincare professionals are familiar with the products we offer, you can feel confident that the recommendations you receive are designed to meet your specific needs.
If you would like to learn more about the products and services available at Valley Skin Institute, please contact the office today at 559-472-7546, or click here to use our online form. Our experienced skincare professionals and board certified dermatologists have the skills necessary to meet all of your skin, hair and nail needs.
