Medical vs Cosmetic Dermatology: What's the Difference?

Dermatology, the field of medicine that focuses on skin, hair, and nails, is divided into two primary subspecialties: medical and cosmetic dermatology. Although both branches aim to promote skin health, they differ in their objectives, approach, and outcome.

What Is Medical Dermatology?

Medical dermatology is dedicated to the diagnosis and management of a wide range of conditions and diseases affecting the skin, hair, and nails. Its primary focus is to address health concerns, rather than purely aesthetic ones.

Medical dermatologists are trained to address dermatological issues through a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and medical procedures, such as biopsies and surgery. The goal of these treatments is to alleviate symptoms, identify and avoid triggers, and prevent the recurrence of dermatological problems. Medical dermatology treatments are often eligible for health insurance coverage, making essential care more accessible.

Common Conditions Treated in Medical Dermatology

Medical dermatology addresses a wide range of conditions, ranging from acute infections to chronic diseases:

Acne

This occurs when hair follicles become clogged with excess sebum (skin oil) and dead skin cells.. This blockage can lead to various types of blemishes, including blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and even cysts. To help manage breakouts and reduce the appearance of acne scars, dermatologists often recommend a range of treatments, including topical medications, oral antibiotics, chemical peels, and laser therapy.

Allergy

Allergic reactions to the skin can manifest as redness, itching, rashes, swelling, and blisters due to allergens such as certain foods, medications, or environmental substances. Medical dermatologists can offer treatments like anti-inflammatory creams, antihistamines, or immunotherapy to prevent further occurrences.

Eczema

This is a chronic condition characterised by inflamed, itchy, or flaky patches of skin due to the breakdown of the skin’s protective barrier. Skin specialists may recommend the use of topical corticosteroid creams and antihistamines to manage flare-ups and other symptoms.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot and ringworm, are common skin issues that usually manifest as rashes, redness, swelling, or dry, scaly skin. These conditions can be effectively treated with both topical and oral antifungal medications to resolve the infection.

Keloids

Keloids are raised scar tissues that develop excessively at the site of a skin injury. These lesions can be treated with corticosteroid injection, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and surgical removal to minimise their size and prevent recurrence.

Moles

Moles are common skin growths that appear as dark, brown, or flesh-colored lesions. They form when melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in your skin, cluster together. While most moles are benign (non-cancerous), it is important to be aware that they can sometimes be a sign of skin cancer. If you have concerns about a mole, a dermatologist can surgically remove it or perform a biopsy to determine if it is cancerous.

Psoriasis

This is an autoimmune condition characterised by inflammation and red, scaly patches (plaques) around the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. This condition is often managed with topical agents, phototherapy, and systemic therapies to help alleviate symptoms and improve skin appearance.

Urticaria

Urticaria, or hives, presents as itchy, red or skin-coloured welts on the skin, which can vary in size and severity. Dermatologists help identify triggers and manage symptoms with antihistamines or biologic therapies to provide relief.

Viral Warts

These are flesh-coloured bumps commonly found on the hands, feet, face, or around the nails and are mostly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Depending on the type and location of warts, skin specialists typically perform procedures, such as cryotherapy or laser removal, to eliminate these lesions effectively.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a serious dermatological condition that develops due to skin damage from prolonged UV exposure. A qualified medical dermatologist can assess any suspicious moles or abnormal lesions through a skin biopsy and provide in-office treatments, such as surgical excision and Mohs surgery, to prevent cancer progression.

Nail Problems

These are unsightly changes in the nails caused by trauma, a fungal infection, or a skin disorder. Some common nail issues include discolouration, spots, and nail separation. Dermatologists can diagnose and treat these conditions with appropriate medications and therapies to restore nail health.

Hair Loss

Hair loss, or alopecia, refers to excessive shedding of hair due to stress, hormonal imbalances, or underlying conditions. In some cases, dermatologists can provide treatment for hair loss, ranging from oral and topical solutions to advanced therapies such as microneedling or platelet-rich plasma injections to stimulate hair growth.

What Is Cosmetic Dermatology?

Cosmetic dermatology focuses on improving the appearance of the skin. It involves a range of non-surgical and minimally invasive procedures designed to address concerns related to ageing, pigmentation, and texture.

Unlike medical dermatology, which addresses health concerns, cosmetic dermatology is elective and often pursued for aesthetic goals and personal satisfaction.

Common Treatments in Cosmetic Dermatology

With advancements in cosmetic dermatology, various non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures are available to reverse the signs of ageing and improve cosmetic concerns. Some popular treatment options include:

Neurotoxin Injections

Neurotoxin injections work by relaxing facial muscles to help smooth out wrinkles and reduce the formation of fine lines around the eyes and forehead. They are particularly effective for crow's feet, forehead lines, and frown lines.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments, typically composed of hyaluronic acid, designed to reduce the appearance of deep lines and restore lost volume. They are commonly used to enhance areas like the cheeks, lips, jawline, and under-eye hollows, creating a smoother, more youthful contour.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are professional skin treatments that involve applying acid-based solutions to the skin. This process exfoliates the outermost layers, revealing smoother, more even-toned skin underneath. They are commonly used to address concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and sun damage.

Microneedling

This procedure utilises fine needles to create micro-punctures on the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen and elastin production. It effectively minimises the appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, and enlarged pores for improved skin texture and firmness.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments, such as CO₂ lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL), help rejuvenate skin tone and texture by targeting age spots, pigmentation, acne scars, and other skin imperfections. They are also used for unwanted hair and tattoo removal.

Consult a Qualified Dermatologist in Singapore

Understanding the distinction between cosmetic and medical dermatology is crucial for making informed treatment decisions, whether you are managing a chronic skin condition or seeking aesthetic improvements. Despite their different primary focuses, both fields ultimately aim to help individuals achieve and maintain healthy, radiant skin.

Led by experienced skin specialist Dr Patricia Yuen, our dermatology clinic in Singapore offers advanced and non-invasive treatments, enabling us to address a wide range of skin concerns under one roof. Contact us today to book your appointment and get a tailored treatment plan for your skin care needs

Contact us by filling in the form below, or calling our clinic number: (65) 6235 1200