What Does a Dermatologist Treat? A Complete Guide
- feigen24
- Oct 1, 2025
- 13 min read
So, what exactly does a dermatologist treat?
In short, a dermatologist is a medical doctor who is an expert in everything involving the skin, hair, and nails. This is a much bigger field than most people realize. From stubborn acne to the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, a board-certified St. Louis dermatologist at Mid-County Dermatology manages over 3,000 different conditions that can affect your body's largest organ.
What You Need to Know: A Quick Overview
Dermatologists are medical doctors specializing in the health of your skin, hair, and nails. They handle everything from medical conditions like psoriasis and skin cancer to cosmetic enhancements like Botox and laser treatments.
Medical Dermatology: Manages conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea.
Surgical Dermatology: Focuses on removing skin cancers and other growths.
Cosmetic Dermatology: Improves skin appearance with treatments for wrinkles and sun damage.
Specialized Fields: Includes care for children (pediatrics) and complex hair/nail disorders.
If you have a persistent skin issue, a new or changing mole, or concerns about your skin's appearance, it's time to see a St. Louis skin specialist.
Your Guide to Dermatological Care
The work of a dermatologist is a fascinating mix of science and artistry, all aimed at restoring your skin's health and, just as importantly, your confidence. The field is incredibly broad, covering everything from life-saving cancer surgeries to the subtle cosmetic refinements that help you feel like your best self. Here at Mid-County Dermatology, our trusted St. Louis skin specialists, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine, provide this complete spectrum of care to patients from Clayton to Chesterfield.
The need for this expertise is massive. Skin conditions are a huge global health issue, with an estimated 4.69 billion new cases popping up worldwide in 2021 alone, according to a 2023 study in The Lancet (read the full research on the global burden of these diseases00331-5/fulltext)). It’s a field built on years of intense, dedicated training. If you're curious about what it takes to become a skin expert, you can learn more about the extensive training a dermatologist at Mid-County Dermatology has.
The Four Pillars of Dermatological Care
To really wrap your head around what a St. Louis dermatologist does, it helps to break their services down into a few main categories. While every patient's needs are unique, the care we provide at Mid-County Dermatology generally falls into one of four key areas.
We've put together a quick table to outline these "pillars" of dermatology.
Category of Care | What It Addresses | Common Services and Treatments |
|---|---|---|
Medical Dermatology | Conditions affecting skin health, such as rashes, infections, and chronic diseases. | Acne, psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, warts, mole checks, skin cancer screenings. |
Surgical Dermatology | The diagnosis and removal of skin cancers and other growths. | Biopsies, mole removal, cyst excision, skin cancer surgery (Mohs surgery). |
Cosmetic Dermatology | Improving the skin's appearance, texture, and signs of aging. | Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments for rejuvenation. |
Pediatric Dermatology | Skin conditions specific to infants, children, and adolescents. | Diaper rash, birthmarks, childhood eczema, warts, acne in teenagers. |
As you can see, the practice of a St. Louis skin doctor like those at our Ladue-area clinic involves a balanced approach to your skin's total wellness.
Each of these pillars is essential for addressing the complete health and appearance of your skin. This guide will walk you through exactly what that looks like, from critical medical treatments to cosmetic enhancements designed to make you feel great in your own skin.
Navigating Medical Dermatology Conditions
For most people, the first visit to a dermatologist lands them right here: in the world of medical dermatology. This is the real heart of skin health. It's where a St. Louis skin specialist works to diagnose and treat conditions that range from a simple, nagging irritation to a serious health risk. At its core, it’s about restoring comfort and function to your body’s largest organ.
Many of these issues are chronic, which means they aren’t a one-and-done fix. They require a long-term management plan to keep symptoms under control and improve your quality of life. Think of a dermatologist as your ongoing partner in skin health. For our neighbors across St. Louis, from Ladue to Frontenac, the Mid-County Dermatology team is here to provide that expert care for these complex problems.
Common Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
Inflammatory skin conditions are easily one of the most frequent reasons people walk through our doors. We’re not talking about a simple rash that disappears in a day. These are persistent, often deeply uncomfortable conditions that can really get in the way of daily life.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This condition is famous for causing dry, intensely itchy, and inflamed skin. It’s very common in kids but can definitely stick around into adulthood, demanding a tailored plan to manage those frustrating flare-ups. We've put together a guide with eczema treatment advice from a St. Louis dermatologist to help you get started.
Psoriasis: An autoimmune disease, psoriasis shows up as thick, red, scaly patches because the body is creating new skin cells way too fast. It can also be connected to other health issues, so having a professional manage it is absolutely crucial.
Rosacea: Known for causing persistent redness, flushing, and sometimes bumps on the face, rosacea can be tricky. Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine help patients in Creve Coeur and Clayton figure out their triggers and find treatments that actually work.
The impact of these diseases is huge. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes that the costs associated with psoriasis alone have climbed to an estimated $51.7 to $63.2 billion in the United States in recent years. That number isn’t just about medication; it reflects the serious toll these conditions take on a person’s health and ability to work.
Addressing Acne and Skin Infections
Beyond the chronic inflammatory stuff, a dermatologist is your go-to expert for stubborn acne and all sorts of skin infections. These problems can pop up for anyone at any age and often need a real medical strategy to clear up for good.
At Mid-County Dermatology, we know how frustrating conditions like adult acne can be. Our goal as your St. Louis Dermatology practice is to move past the surface-level fixes and provide evidence-based treatments that get to the root of the problem.
Dermatologists often provide practical advice on everyday skin concerns, such as how to clean out pores for clearer skin, which is a key step in preventing breakouts. Other common issues we treat include:
Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these common growths can be surprisingly stubborn and often require a professional to remove them effectively.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster): This is a painful rash that comes from the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It needs quick medical attention to avoid long-term complications.
Fungal Infections: A dermatologist can accurately diagnose and treat infections of the skin, hair, and nails, like ringworm or athlete's foot, that over-the-counter creams just can't handle.
Ultimately, medical dermatology is all about solving skin problems that affect your health and well-being. A skilled St. Louis skin doctor at Mid-County Dermatology can give you an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan that brings you relief.
Understanding Surgical Dermatology Procedures
When you think about dermatology, creams and prescriptions probably come to mind first. But a huge part of what we do involves highly skilled surgical procedures. This is where a dermatologist's hands-on expertise is critical, not just for treating a condition but for ensuring the best possible cosmetic result. Surgical dermatology is all about the precise removal of skin abnormalities, from the most dangerous cancers to common bumps and growths.
The top priority, without a doubt, is finding and removing skin cancers. These are incredibly common, and catching them early is the absolute key to successful treatment. The ability to spot a suspicious lesion and remove it with precision is often life-saving, which is why we're so passionate about regular skin cancer screenings for everyone in the sunny St. Louis area.
Skin Cancer Detection and Removal
At Mid-County Dermatology, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine bring years of experience to diagnosing and surgically removing all types of skin cancer. Their trained eyes and steady hands are essential for managing these conditions effectively.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is the #1 most common type of skin cancer. It often looks like a pearly bump or a flat, flesh-colored spot. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it needs to be removed completely to prevent it from growing and damaging surrounding tissue.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): You might see this as a firm, red nodule or a rough, scaly patch. SCC can grow deeper into the skin and has the potential to spread if it isn't treated early.
Melanoma: As the most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma can pop up anywhere on the body and carries a higher risk of spreading. Early detection and complete surgical removal are absolutely critical for a positive outcome.
When skin cancer appears on sensitive or highly visible areas like the face, head, or neck, Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate available. It's a specialized technique where the surgeon removes cancerous tissue one thin layer at a time, preserving as much healthy skin as possible. We strongly encourage patients to learn more by reading our guide to understanding Mohs surgery in St. Louis.
Excising Benign Skin Growths
Of course, not every growth is cancerous. A big part of our surgical work involves removing benign (non-cancerous) growths. While they aren't a threat to your health, these spots can be painful, get irritated by clothing, or simply be a cosmetic concern for our patients from Creve Coeur to Frontenac. Our goal is always the same: remove them safely and with minimal scarring.
Some of the most common benign growths we remove include:
Cysts: These are little sacs under the skin that can fill with fluid, sometimes becoming red, swollen, or infected.
Lipomas: These are soft, rubbery bumps made of fat that grow just beneath the skin's surface.
Moles (Nevi): Most moles are harmless, but we often remove them if they're constantly getting snagged or if they have atypical features that warrant a closer look.
Whether a procedure is medically necessary or for your own peace of mind, you can trust the surgical skill of a board-certified St. Louis dermatologist to make the process safe, effective, and tailored just for you.
Exploring Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments
While we spend much of our time treating skin diseases, a huge part of what we do is simply helping people feel confident and happy in their own skin. That's where cosmetic dermatology comes in. It’s both an art and a science, focused on improving the skin's appearance, whether that means softening the signs of aging or reversing years of sun damage.
Think of it as hitting the refresh button on your natural look, all under the guidance of a medical expert who understands skin down to the cellular level. This is where a dermatologist’s deep knowledge of skin anatomy and safety is absolutely critical. Even procedures that seem simple on the surface require incredible precision to create beautiful, natural-looking results.
For our patients in St. Louis communities like Ladue and Frontenac, coming to a board-certified dermatologist at Mid-County Dermatology means you can pursue your cosmetic goals with total peace of mind.
Injectables for Smoothing and Volumizing
Injectable treatments are easily some of our most popular cosmetic procedures, and for good reason. They’re known for their ability to subtly turn back the clock with little to no downtime. Different injectables work in different ways to tackle common concerns like wrinkles and lost volume, and a skilled St. Louis skin specialist knows exactly how to use them to create a refreshed look, not a "frozen" one.
Neuromodulators (Botox & Dysport): These are the go-to for relaxing the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles—those lines that pop up from years of smiling, frowning, or raising your eyebrows. They work beautifully to smooth out crow's feet, forehead lines, and the "eleven" lines between the brows.
Dermal Fillers (Juvéderm & Restylane): Made mostly from hyaluronic acid, a substance your skin produces naturally, fillers are all about restoring lost volume. We use them to plump up thin lips, soften deep facial creases, and rebuild the contours of the cheeks for a more youthful, lifted structure.
Advanced Skin Rejuvenation Therapies
Beyond injectables, we have an entire arsenal of advanced technologies designed to improve skin tone, texture, and overall quality from the inside out. These treatments tap into the body’s own natural healing processes, stimulating it to create improvements that last. At Mid-County Dermatology, we customize these therapies for every patient’s unique skin and personal goals.
"Cosmetic dermatology is not about changing who you are. It’s about restoring skin health and addressing concerns that affect your confidence, allowing your best self to shine through." - Dr. Feigenbaum, Mid-County Dermatology
One of the most effective treatments we have for improving texture and firmness is microneedling. This procedure uses tiny, fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which kicks your body’s collagen and elastin production into high gear. You can learn more about our microneedling services and see how it helps with everything from acne scars to fine lines.
Other powerful rejuvenation treatments include chemical peels, which are fantastic for improving discoloration, and laser therapies that can target redness and sunspots with focused light energy. When performed by a qualified St. Louis skin doctor, these procedures offer truly impressive results.
Discovering Specialized Dermatological Fields
A dermatologist’s work often goes much deeper than the skin conditions most people are familiar with. The field is full of specialized areas that allow a St. Louis skin doctor to provide complete care for the entire family, making practices like Mid-County Dermatology a go-to resource from Chesterfield to the wider St. Louis area.
These sub-specialties are critical because different life stages and body parts present unique challenges. For example, a baby’s skin isn't just a miniature version of an adult's; it has its own distinct physiology and needs a specialized approach. In the same way, problems with hair and nails can be the first signs of complex internal issues that only a trained dermatologist knows how to read.
Pediatric Dermatology: A Focus on Young Skin
Caring for a child’s skin requires both specialized knowledge and a gentle touch. Dermatologists treat a whole host of conditions that are either unique to or far more common in infants, children, and teenagers.
At Mid-County Dermatology, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine bring years of experience and empathy to diagnosing and managing these pediatric issues. Some of the most common concerns we see include:
Complex Birthmarks: We evaluate and manage both vascular and pigmented birthmarks, confirming they are benign and addressing any cosmetic concerns parents may have.
Severe Diaper Rash: We handle those persistent, tough cases that just don't clear up with over-the-counter creams.
Childhood Eczema: Our team creates safe, effective management plans to get flare-ups under control and bring comfort to itchy, sensitive skin.
Warts and Molluscum: We remove these common viral growths using kid-friendly techniques designed to minimize any discomfort.
Hair and Nail Disorders
When you’re dealing with hair or nail problems, a board-certified dermatologist is the definitive expert. These issues are often more than just cosmetic—they can be the body’s way of signaling an underlying health condition. A St. Louis dermatologist’s job is to investigate the root cause to get to an accurate diagnosis and find a treatment that works.
Seeing a specialist for hair loss or a persistent nail problem is crucial. What might seem like a simple issue can be a clue to a more significant medical condition that needs to be addressed.
Some common hair and nail conditions we treat are:
Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disorder that causes patchy hair loss.
Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis): A stubborn infection that really needs professional medical treatment to resolve it for good.
Telogen Effluvium: A sudden, significant shedding of hair that’s often triggered by major stress or an illness.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Figuring out when to trade a home remedy for a doctor’s visit is a smart part of managing your health. Lots of minor skin issues clear up on their own, but sometimes, certain signs are your body’s way of saying it’s time to call in an expert. Think of these as clear signals to take the next step, not a reason to panic.
Putting off a persistent skin problem can let it get worse or become much harder to treat down the road. Getting a professional opinion from a St. Louis dermatologist is the fastest way to get a real diagnosis and a treatment plan that’s actually proven to work for you.
Actionable Steps: Your Checklist for Making an Appointment
It’s time to call a professional St. Louis skin doctor if any of this sounds familiar. This isn’t a complete list, but it covers the most common reasons we see patients in our office.
A Mole That's New or Acting Strange: Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color—or one that starts to bleed or itch—needs to be checked out immediately to rule out skin cancer.
Acne That Just Won't Quit: If you've tried over-the-counter products for a few weeks and aren't seeing results, a dermatologist can prescribe treatments that tackle the problem at its source.
A Rash or Hives Sticking Around: A rash that lasts more than a week, is painful, or seems to be spreading needs a proper diagnosis. It could be anything from an allergy to an infection.
Sudden or Worsening Hair Loss: Noticeable thinning or bald patches can signal an underlying medical issue that a dermatologist is trained to identify and treat.
Changes in Your Nails: If your nails are becoming discolored, thick, or are separating from the nail bed, it often points to a fungal infection or another condition that needs medical care.
If any of these concerns are on your mind, don't just wait and worry. The best thing you can do is get a professional evaluation.
For anyone in the St. Louis area, from Clayton to Chesterfield, our team at Mid-County Dermatology is ready to help. Taking that first step is easy. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Feigenbaum or Dr. Gibstine at Mid-County Dermatology and get the answers and care you deserve.
Key Takeaways
To summarize what a dermatologist treats:
Dermatologists are medical doctors specializing in over 3,000 conditions of the skin, hair, and nails.
They manage medical issues like acne and skin cancer, perform surgery, and provide cosmetic treatments.
They treat patients of all ages, from infants to adults, for issues ranging from common rashes to rare diseases.
You should see a dermatologist for any new or changing moles, persistent acne or rashes, hair loss, or concerning nail changes.
FAQ: Common Questions About Dermatology Visits
After digging into all the conditions a dermatologist can handle, it's completely normal to have a few practical questions pop up. Thinking through the logistics is just part of the process, and our goal at Mid-County Dermatology is to make seeking care as straightforward and comfortable as possible for our patients across the St. Louis area. Here are some plain-English answers to the questions we hear most often.
What is the difference between a dermatologist and an esthetician?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school and a specialized residency to diagnose and treat over 3,000 diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. They can prescribe medication and perform medical and surgical procedures. An esthetician is a licensed skincare professional who provides cosmetic services like facials and waxing but cannot diagnose medical conditions or prescribe medication.
What should I expect during my first dermatology appointment?
Your first visit is a chance for us to get to know you and your skin. Dr. Feigenbaum or Dr. Gibstine will start with a thorough conversation about your medical history and listen to your specific concerns. Depending on your needs, they may perform a targeted exam of one area or a full-body skin check to get a complete picture, provide an accurate diagnosis, and create a treatment plan you feel good about.
Do I need a referral to see a St. Louis dermatologist?
This depends on your insurance plan. PPO plans typically do not require a referral, allowing you to book directly. HMO plans usually require a referral from your primary care physician. We always recommend calling your insurance provider to confirm, and our team at Mid-County Dermatology is happy to help you navigate your coverage.
Ready to take the next step toward healthier skin? The expert team at Mid-County Dermatology is here to provide the compassionate, professional care you deserve. Schedule your consultation today!
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Feigenbaum, Dr. Gibstine, or another qualified healthcare provider at Mid-County Dermatology for personalized treatment recommendations. Individual results may vary.
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