If you’ve ever wondered how doctors specialise in skin, hair, and nail health — or why Dermatology is one of the most sought-after medical branches in India — this guide will walk you through the entire journey in a simple, human-friendly way. Becoming a dermatologist takes commitment, long hours of study, and a genuine interest in understanding how the skin works, but the rewards… both intellectually and financially… are truly worth it.
Whether you’re a student preparing for NEET, a parent trying to understand medical career paths, or someone curious about MD Dermatology in India, this guide has everything you need.
What Does a Dermatologist Do?
A dermatologist diagnoses and treats conditions related to skin, hair, nails, and cosmetic concerns. From acne, pigmentation, allergies, and infections to advanced procedures like lasers, fillers, and minor surgeries — dermatologists handle a wide range of medical and aesthetic issues.
The field has grown rapidly in India due to rising demand for skin care, cosmetic dermatology, and personalised treatments.
1. Eligibility to Become a Dermatologist in India
To enter Dermatology, you must follow a step-by-step education pathway:
Step 1: Complete Class 12 (PCB)
Subjects required: Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Minimum marks: 50% (varies for reserved categories)
Step 2: Clear NEET-UG
NEET-UG is compulsory to enter MBBS. Higher your rank, better the college.
Step 3: Complete MBBS(5.5 years)
Includes:
- 4.5 years academic study
- 1 year of rotational internship
Step 4: Crack NEET-PG / NExT (Future)
This entrance exam decides your specialization. Dermatology (MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy) requires very high rank, as seats are limited.
Step 5: MD Dermatology (3 years)
Includes:
- Dermatopathology
- Clinical Dermatology
- Cosmetology
- Venereology
- Leprosy
- Laser medicine
Step 6: Optional Fellowships
After MD, students often choose short-term or long-term fellowships:
- Cosmetic Dermatology
- Dermatosurgery
- Anti-aging
- Trichology (Hair)
- Laser Aesthetic Medicine
2. Entrance Exams Required
Below are the important exams you must clear:
| Stage | Exam | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Enter MBBS | NEET-UG | National entrance exam required to get admission into MBBS |
| Enter MD Dermatology | NEET-PG / NExT | Mandatory exam to specialise in Dermatology after MBBS |
| Abroad Options | USMLE / PLAB | Optional exams if planning to study or practise abroad |
3. Course Duration
| Course | Duration |
|---|---|
| MBBS | 5.5 years |
| MD Dermatology | 3 years |
| Fellowship (Optional) | 6–12 months |
| Total Time to Become a Dermatologist | 8–9 years |
4. Fees for Dermatology in India
Dermatologist course fees vary depending on institution type.
MBBS Fees
- Government colleges: ₹1,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 (entire course)
- Private colleges: ₹50,00,000 – ₹1.2 crore
MD Dermatology Fees
Government colleges: ₹1,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 Private colleges: ₹40,00,000 – ₹1 crore
Dermatology is expensive in private institutions due to limited seats and high demand.
5. Types of Dermatologists
Dermatology is not just one field. It has several branches:
| Type of Dermatologist | What They Do |
|---|---|
| Clinical Dermatologist | Treats acne, eczema, psoriasis, allergies, fungal infections |
| Cosmetic Dermatologist | Handles lasers, Botox, fillers, anti-aging treatments, pigmentation issues |
| Dermatosurgeon | Performs mole removal, scar revision, hair transplant, skin surgeries |
| Pediatric Dermatologist | Treats skin, hair & nail disorders in infants and children |
| Dermatopathologist | Diagnoses skin diseases using microscopic examination of skin samples |
Why is This Important?
Once you complete MD Dermatology, you can choose any subspecialty depending on your interest. Cosmetic Dermatology and Dermatosurgery are currently the fastest-growing fields in India.
6. Dermatologist Salary in India
Dermatology is among the highest-paying medical specialisations.
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh MD Dermatologist | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000 | ₹12–30 LPA |
| 3–5 years experience | ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 | ₹24–48 LPA |
| Senior Dermatologist | ₹4,00,000 – ₹8,00,000+ | ₹60 LPA+ |
| Own Clinic (Cosmetic) | ₹3,00,000 – ₹10,00,000+ | ₹50 LPA – ₹1 crore+ |
FAQs
Q1. Why do toppers in NEET-PG choose Dermatology?
Ans. Because it offers excellent work-life balance, high income, low emergencies, and growing demand for cosmetic dermatology.
Q2. What can I do if I want to become a dermatologist?
Ans. Start by focusing on Biology in 12th, clear NEET-UG, complete MBBS, then aim for a high rank in NEET-PG to secure an MD Dermatology seat.
Q3. Is Dermatology a high-paying field?
Ans. Yes. With cosmetic dermatology booming in India, dermatologists earn among the highest in the medical field.
Q4. Can I open my own clinic after MD Dermatology?
Ans. Absolutely. Most dermatologists open a skin or cosmetic clinic within 1–2 years of completing MD.
Q5. Do dermatologists only treat skin problems?
Ans. No. They treat hair, nails, cosmetic issues, allergies, infections, scars, pigmentation, burns, aging, and more.
