Dermatology is the division of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases, a unique specialty with both medical and surgical aspects.
A dermatologist (dur-meh-tol-uh-jist) is a doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes (e.g., lining inside the mouth, nose and eyelids). A dermatologist takes care of diseases, in the widest sense, and some cosmetic problems of the skin, scalp, hair, and nails.
The skin plays a major role in protecting the body from external factors such as bacteria, chemicals, and temperature. Dermatologists diagnose and treat more than 3,000 different diseases in both children and adults, engaging in a variety of patient care that combines cognitive skills with surgical skills.