How much does a dermatologist cost?
How much does a dermatologist cost?
$150 – $300 average cost for first visit (without insurance)
$100 – $1,000 average cost for dermatology treatment (without insurance)
Average cost to see a dermatologist
The average cost to see a dermatologist without insurance is $150 to $300 for the first visit and $100 to $200 for follow-up visits. The cost of a dermatologist visit depends on the reason for the appointment and the services, tests, and procedures needed, with most dermatology treatments ranging from $100 to $1,000.
| Dermatology service | Average cost without insurance* |
|---|---|
| New patient visit | $150 – $300 |
| Established patient visit | $100 – $200 |
| Complete body check | $120 – $300 |
| Mole removal cost | $150 – $500 |
| Skin tag removal cost | $150 – $600 |
| Wart removal | $100 – $500 |
| Laser treatment for leg veins | $150 – $700 |
| Punch biopsy | $100 – $130 |
| Shave biopsy | $50 – $100 |
| Chemical peel cost | $150 – $1,500 |
| Acne treatment | $150 – $1,000 |
| Cyst removal cost | $1,600 – $6,000 |
*Not including pathology fees
Factors that affect the cost of a dermatologist visit
The biggest factor in your total out-of-pocket cost is whether you have health insurance. If you're insured and have met your annual deductible, the co-pay to see an in-network dermatologist ranges from $20 to $50, depending on your plan. If you're not insured, you’ll pay for the full visit, test, and treatment costs.
These additional factors impact the cost of a dermatology appointment:
Type of visit – New patient visits are typically more expensive than follow-ups. Consultations for complex cases can be pricier than routine visits, and procedures like biopsies, mole removal, or laser treatments come at an additional cost.
General vs. specialized dermatology – Board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience or a particular specialization may charge higher rates. Dermatologists offering advanced treatments or technologies often have steeper prices.
Additional services – Biopsies, pathology, blood work and other lab tests, and prescribed medications come with separate costs not included in the standard visit fee.
Location – Dermatologists in major metropolitan cities or areas with a high cost of living tend to charge more. Prices may also be higher in areas with fewer specialists due to limited competition.
Ask your dermatologist if they offer discounts for uninsured patients.
When should I see a dermatologist?
Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist if you notice any new, changing, or worsening skin condition that doesn't improve within a month with basic skin care. Early diagnosis is crucial for many common skin disorders that can become life-threatening if left untreated.
See a dermatologist annually for a full-body check and skin cancer screening, especially if you have a history of significant sun exposure or a family history of skin cancer.
In addition, see a dermatologist if you experience any of the following conditions:
Persistent or chronic skin issues like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, itching, or rashes
Suspicious moles, spots, or skin growths, or changes in the size, color, shape, or symmetry of existing spots
Issues with hair loss or thinning, which may be a sign of alopecia or vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
Nail fungus or other changes in nail health
Cosmetic concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, scars, pigment issues, or unwanted hair
If you're uncertain whether your skin problem requires a dermatologist's attention, it's better to err on the side of caution and schedule an appointment for professional evaluation.
What does a dermatologist do on the first visit?
On a first visit, the dermatologist typically:
Takes a medical history, asking about your skin and health concerns, conditions that run in your family, and medications you take
Conducts a thorough examination of your skin, hair, and nails, sometimes using magnification and lighting to observe spots of concern more closely
Assesses moles, growths, and other skin concerns, and may perform tests or do a biopsy of any abnormal areas
Diagnoses any skin conditions you may have
Creates a customized treatment plan, which may include topical medications, oral medications, in-office treatments or procedures, blood tests, or referral to an allergy specialist or plastic surgeon
Answers any questions and concerns you may have about your skin diagnosis and treatment
Can a dermatologist help with severe acne?
A dermatologist can provide solutions for severe acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments. Persistent, painful, or severe acne might require professional intervention to prevent permanent skin damage. Dermatologists provide specialized medications and treatments, such as:
Topical retinoids – Derived from vitamin A, these creams, gels, and lotions rapidly exfoliate skin and prevent hair follicle blockage. Though some topical treatments are available over the counter, stronger versions like Tretinoin and Isotretinoin require a prescription.
Antibiotics – Typically available by prescription only, antibiotics treat inflammatory acne by fighting acne-causing bacteria. Antibiotics come in topical gels and creams or in oral form via pills and liquids.
Steroid injections – Cortisone steroid injections are commonly recommended for severe cystic acne to reduce inflammation and cyst size. Though they may cause temporary skin thinning and discoloration at the injection site, they offer rapid improvement and pain relief.
Dermatologist FAQs
Is it worth seeing a dermatologist?
Seeing a dermatologist is worth it. Dermatologists are skin health experts who can accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions. They have advanced training beyond primary care physicians and are more likely to catch skin conditions early, leading to better outcomes.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?
Depending on your health insurance plan, you may need a referral from your primary care doctor to see a dermatologist for medical concerns. However, most dermatologists accept self-referrals for cosmetic treatments as these services are not typically covered by insurance.
Does insurance cover a dermatologist visit?
Health insurance typically covers a dermatologist visit for medically necessary reasons, such as diagnosing or treating a skin condition or performing a skin cancer screening. Check your insurance policy to find out the specifics of your coverage, including co-pays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses.
Can I see a dermatologist online?
Yes, you can see a dermatologist online. Many dermatologists offer virtual consultations where you can discuss your skin issues, show skin problems through a video call, and receive advice, recommendations, or prescriptions remotely.
However, not all conditions can be diagnosed or treated online, and certain cases may still require an in-person visit for a more thorough examination or specific tests and procedures.
Tips for choosing a dermatologist
Choosing the right dermatologist is crucial to ensure you receive the highest quality care for your skin, hair, and nails. Here are some tips to help you find the best dermatologist near you:
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations.
Read reviews from other dermatology patients on BetterCare and Google.
Look for a dermatologist who specializes in or has extensive experience treating your specific skin concerns.
Confirm the dermatologist is board-certified.
Verify the dermatologist accepts your health insurance, and ask about the cost of visits, procedures, tests, and treatments. If you are uninsured, ask about payment options and discounts.
Questions to ask your dermatologist
When visiting a dermatologist, asking relevant and specific questions can help you understand your skin condition better and make informed treatment decisions. Consider asking these questions:
What's the exact diagnosis of my skin condition?
What could be causing this skin issue?
What treatment options are available for my condition?
What are the potential side effects or risks associated with the prescribed treatments?
How long will it take to see improvements with the recommended treatment?
Are there any triggers I should avoid to prevent flare-ups or worsening of the condition?
How long will it take to see improvements with the recommended treatment?
What should I do if I notice changes or if my symptoms worsen during treatment?
Are there any long-term implications or complications associated with my skin issue?
Should I come back for a follow-up appointment, and if so, when?
Will insurance cover the cost of the visit and prescribed treatments?
Are there any lifestyle changes or home care routines that could help improve my skin health?
Can you help me with cosmetic concerns, such as wrinkles, scars, or unwanted hair?
What skincare routine or products do you recommend for my skin type?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.