What does a dermatologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A dermatologist is a specialist doctor in skin diseases and works with diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions and issues in skin, hair, and nails. Tasks include managing eczema, psoriasis, and acne, as well as treating skin cancer and performing various types of skin surgery. The role also involves advising patients on skincare, allergies, and sun protection, as well as interpreting laboratory tests and making medical assessments. The work environment is often clinic- or hospital-based, sometimes involving research and teaching, and work is conducted both independently and in close collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Salary development over time
Dermatologists' salaries have shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 92 200 in 2023 and further to 93 600 in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.3% over the period, and nearly 1.5% just in the last year. This salary growth reflects continued high demand for dermatology specialists, while recruitment challenges and increased workload in healthcare have contributed to rising wages. The market for specialist doctors, especially dermatologists, is expected to remain strong, likely influencing salary levels in the future.
Dermatologist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (men), 91,200 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (men), 101,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 563 SEK
- Gender differences: Men 94 300 SEK, women 92 900 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: No detailed statistics available for this profession
Education and qualifications
To work as a dermatologist, a long and specialized education in medicine is required. The path begins with a medical degree, followed by general internship and then specialist training in dermatology and venereology. In addition to formal exams, approved licensing and often experience from clinical work in healthcare are necessary.
- Medical education: 5.5–6 years at university
- General internship (AT): approximately 18–24 months
- Specialist training (ST) in dermatology: approximately 5 years
- Licensing: Requirements from the National Board of Health and Welfare for both doctors and specialist doctors
- Recommended courses: Continuing education in skin diseases, skin surgery, and allergology
Dermatologists often work in teams with other specialists, such as oncologists and plastic surgeons, especially when treating skin cancer. This collaboration not only broadens expertise but also creates opportunities for specialization within various medical fields.
Common benefits and compensations
Among dermatologists, it is common to have generous benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Many employers also offer insurance, flexible working hours, and access to modern equipment and further training, especially within the public sector.
Competition and challenges
The competition for training positions and specialist roles in dermatology is significant, placing high demands on grades and work experience during training. The profession is also characterized by challenges such as high workload and the need to stay updated in a rapidly evolving medical field. At the same time, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation where it is difficult to find the right expertise, and there is a relatively high turnover within the profession. This results in employers often seeking experienced and specialized dermatologists, which can provide good opportunities for career development but also leads to a fast-paced work environment for many.
Tips for aspiring dermatologists
To succeed as a dermatologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with patience and a strong service orientation. An early interest in medicine and science facilitates the long educational journey, and involvement in clinical work provides valuable practical experience. Precision and the ability to interpret details are crucial for diagnosis, while good communication and empathy are important for building trust with patients. Actively seeking internships and mentorships in dermatology enhances understanding of daily work and increases chances of securing an attractive ST position. Finally, a willingness to continuously further educate oneself is advantageous, as research in skin diseases develops rapidly and requires ongoing professional development.
Key facts about dermatologists
- Education level: Specialist doctor degree (at least 12 years of education and practice)
- Work environment: Hospitals, clinics, and sometimes research/teaching
- Demand: Very high, especially for experienced specialists
- Work mode: Full-time, often daytime but some on-call work may occur
- Job vacancies: 375 within the specialist doctor group
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a certified specialist, a dermatologist can choose to specialize further in areas such as skin surgery, aesthetic dermatology, or research. There are also opportunities for leadership roles like department head or responsible for a skin clinic. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the prospects for employment as a specialist are very good, and demand is expected to grow further over the next five years. At the same time, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation with difficulties in finding qualified personnel and a relatively high turnover, creating good opportunities for both new and experienced dermatologists to develop and advance their careers.
Frequently asked questions about dermatologists
- What does a dermatologist earn?
- The average salary for a dermatologist is 93 600 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a dermatologist?
- A medical degree, general internship, and specialist training in dermatology are required.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
- What are the future prospects for dermatologists?
- Demand is very high and expected to increase further over the next five years.
- What are the most common work environments for dermatologists?
- Most work in hospitals, specialist clinics, or within research and education.
- What is the salary range for dermatologists?
- The lowest salary is 84,600 SEK and the highest is 110,600 SEK per month.
