What is a cosmetic dermatologist and what do they do?
This article will explain what cosmetic dermatologists can help you with and how they can provide affordable virtual care with prescription-strength skin care.
Table of Content:
What is a cosmetic dermatologist? | What do they do? | Price range | Do they prescribe medications? | Can they offer treatment online? | Price range of virtual consultations | Cosmetic dermatologist vs medical dermatologist | Best cosmetic dermatologists
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What is a cosmetic dermatologist?
A cosmetic dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in helping people improve the look and feel of their skin, hair, and nails. While all dermatologists are trained to treat medical skin issues, cosmetic dermatologists focus more on appearance—things like smoothing wrinkles, evening out skin tone, treating acne scars, or removing unwanted hair.
They use non-surgical treatments to help people look refreshed and feel more confident in their skin. Many also offer treatments for things like sun damage, enlarged pores, and early signs of aging.
Cosmetic dermatologists are still board-certified medical doctors, so they understand the science behind skin health. But they also have an artistic eye for detail, which helps them create natural, subtle results that match your goals.
What does a cosmetic dermatologist do?
A cosmetic dermatologist helps people improve the appearance of their skin, hair, and nails using non-surgical treatments. Their goal is to enhance features, reduce signs of aging, and boost confidence—all while keeping the skin healthy.
- Smooths wrinkles and fine lines
Improves skin texture and tone - Treats acne scars, sunspots, and pigmentation
- Removes unwanted hair, veins, or tattoos
- Tightens and rejuvenates skin
- Helps with preventative aging strategies and custom skincare routines
What is the average consultation price for a cosmetic dermatologist appointment?
The cost of seeing a cosmetic dermatologist in person in the U.S. varies widely depending on the treatment, location, and the provider’s experience. Since cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by insurance, you’ll be paying out of pocket.
Here’s a general price range for common services:
- Consultation fee: $100–$250 (often credited toward treatment if you proceed)
- Botox: $10–$20 per unit (typical treatment costs $200–$600)
- Dermal fillers: $500–$1,500 per syringe
- Chemical peels: $150–$500 per session
- Laser treatments (e.g., for pigmentation, wrinkles, or hair removal): $200–$2,000 depending on area and type
- Microneedling: $250–$700 per session
- Prescription skincare: $50–$100+
Factors that affect price:
- Geographic location
- Provider expertise
- Type and number of treatments needed
Do cosmetic dermatologists prescribe medications?
Yes, cosmetic dermatologists can and often do prescribe medications—especially for skin concerns related to appearance.
Common medications prescribed by cosmetic dermatologists:
- Skincare products with active ingredients – tailored to your skin type and goals
- Tretinoin (Retin-A) – for acne, fine lines, and skin texture
- Hydroquinone – for hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Oral medications – like spironolactone or antibiotics for hormonal acne
- Topical steroids or anti-inflammatories – for redness or skin irritation
Can a cosmetic dermatologist offer treatment online?
Yes, cosmetic dermatologists can offer online consultations for many cosmetic concerns—and it’s often a convenient and cost-efficient way to get expert advice without visiting a clinic in person.
A virtual cosmetic dermatologist can help with the following:
- Acne
- Facial redness and rosacea
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation, sun damage and melasma
- Scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Unwanted facial hair
- Androgenetic alopecia
- Alopecia areata
What is the consultation price of a virtual cosmetic dermatologist appointment?
Through Miiskin a consultation price with an independent, board-certified dermatologist can cost between $39 to $59.
Can virtual cosmetic dermatologists prescribe the same medications as in-person dermatologists?
Yes, virtual cosmetic dermatologists can prescribe many of the same medications as in-person dermatologists—especially for common concerns like acne, anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, and rosacea.
How often do I need to renew my prescriptions for cosmetic concerns?
It depends on the laws of the medication you have been prescribed, the laws of the state where you live and your dermatologist’s recommendations. However, it may vary between 3 to 12 months.
Cosmetic dermatologist vs medical dermatologist
| Aspect | Cosmetic Dermatologist | Medical (General) Dermatologist |
| Primary Focus | Enhancing appearance (skin, hair, nails) | Diagnosing and treating skin diseases |
| Conditions Treated | Wrinkles, scars, pigmentation, hair loss, aging skin | Acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, skin cancer |
| Common Procedures | Botox, fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments, microneedling | Biopsies, mole removal, cryotherapy, medical treatments |
| Prescribes Medication | Yes – mainly for cosmetic concerns (e.g., tretinoin, hydroquinone) | Yes – for a wide range of skin conditions |
| Insurance Coverage | Not covered | Often covered |
| Training | Board-certified dermatologist with a focus on aesthetics | Board-certified dermatologist focused on medical conditions |
| Virtual Care | Available for consultations and prescriptions | Available for many non-urgent conditions |
| Goal of Treatment | Improve appearance and boost confidence | Treat or manage medical skin issues |
Dermatologists Accepting New Patient Appointments
Best cosmetic dermatologists
Via the Miiskin platform you can consult some of the best cosmetic dermatologists in the country. Consultation prices range from $39 to $69. Get access to customized prescription skin care for common cosmetic concerns such as acne, melasma, anti-aging or hair loss.
Dr. Ana Chacon, board-certified dermatologist
Licensed in all 50 U.S. states, Virgin Islands, and Guam
Consultation price $59
Dr. Robert Rothbaum, board-certified dermatologist
Medical licenses in IL, KY, MI, ND, OH
Consultation price $59
Dr. Eric Howell, board-certified dermatologist
Medical licenses in NC
Consultation price $69
Dr. Ryan Trowbridge, board-certified dermatologist
Medical licenses in CA, CT, IL, NE
Consultation price $59
Dr. Amit Om, board-certified dermatologist
Medical licenses in NC, SC, FL, GA, IL, CT, TX, CA
Consultation price $55
Provider & Prescription Information
Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their own private practices. Miiskin does not employ dermatologists and does not sell or distribute medications. Any prescriptions issued by the dermatologists can be filled at third-party pharmacies of the patient’s choice.
Affordable Virtual Care with Affiliated Dermatologists
Learn how to access top board-certified dermatologists in your state through affordable, virtual care at home.
Consult a cosmetic dermatologist for only $59 and get prescription skincare!
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