A dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in the treatment of skin, hair and nail conditions. They have undertaken additional training after at least 2 years of general medical training. This specialist training involves 5 years of full time dermatology training and often includes travel to dermatological centres overseas for research and additional training.

Dermatology trainees (or registrars) are expected to undertake additional study and research during their training and to publish in dermatology journals such as the Australasian Journal of Dermatology.

On completion of the training program, a trainee dermatologist must sit for their specialist dermatology examinations to obtain their postgraduate qualifications. These are comprehensive examinations including written and oral questions and the examination of patients. This postgraduate qualification can be seen after the dermatologists name as "FACD".

A dermatologist is required to maintain their professional standards and continually update their skills by participation in the Australasian College of Dermatologist's continuing professional development program.