Dermatologists diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the skin, hair and nails, as well as many sexually transmitted diseases. Most skin cancers are treated by a dermatologist (occasionally in consultation with a surgeon), as well as melanomas, moles and other skin tumors.

Contact dermatitis, allergic (and non-allergic) skin disorders, and the manifestation of various internal disorders and infectious diseases on the skin all fall under the care of the dermatologist. Dermatology specifically relates to the treatment of acne, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, pemphigus, porphyria and cutaneous lupus.

Dermatologists also have expertise in cosmetic skin procedures, as well as hair loss treatment and scar repair and removal.