How to choose a dermatologist — 7 things to check

India's cosmetic skin industry mixes dermatologists, cosmetologists, salon practitioners, and franchise brands. Marketing rarely tells you which is which. Here's the checklist a dermatologist would use themselves.

1. Verify the MD DVL or DNB

A dermatologist holds a Doctor of Medicine in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy — MD DVL — or the DNB equivalent. Verifiable on nmc.org.in. A cosmetologist isn't a dermatologist. A nurse or technician running a laser isn't a dermatologist either.

2. Check the device brand

Dermatologist-grade lasers (Alma Soprano, Candela GentleMax, Lumenis UltraPulse, Fotona) cost 10–30x salon IPL. Ask the name, look it up. If they won't tell you, that's your answer.

3. Transparent pricing

Itemised costs at consultation. No hidden fees. No limited-time offers pressuring you to sign same-day. The best clinics tell you the price range before you commit.

4. Written medical history + consent

A real dermatologist takes a full history — allergies, medications, previous treatments — and gets written consent before any procedure. Signing on the day of first injection without any of that? Walk.

5. Before/after photography

Standardised lighting, same angle, same distance. That's how progress is measured objectively. No photos means no objective assessment.

6. Honest limits, not just promises

A good dermatologist tells you what you can't achieve — alongside what you can. 'Permanent in one session' or 'look 20 years younger' are sales, not medicine.

7. Follow-up access

Direct line for questions. Review appointment at 2 weeks. Photo-based progress checks at 1, 3, and 6 months. That's what clinics who care about outcomes actually do.