Finding the right dermatologist in Singapore can be a daunting task, especially when you’re dealing with skin concerns that affect your confidence and wellbeing.
This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when seeking dermatological care in Singapore.
A dermatologist (also referred to as a skin specialist) is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating various skin, hair, and nail conditions. In Singapore, dermatologists commonly treat conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer, among many others.
Dermatologist Training and Qualifications in Singapore
The Path to Becoming a Dermatologist
In Singapore, becoming a fully qualified dermatologist requires extensive training beyond medical school:
- Complete medical school (typically 5-6 years)
- Undergo 3 years of internal medicine training
- Complete an additional 3 years of advanced specialist training in dermatology
This makes the total training period approximately 11-12 years before a doctor can practice as a dermatology specialist.
During their training, most dermatologists in Singapore spend significant time at the National Skin Centre (NSC), which serves as the primary dermatology training institution in the country.
Many also rotate through various teaching hospitals including Singapore General Hospital (SGH), National University Hospital (NUH), and Changi General Hospital (CGH).
Dermatologist Seniority Levels
After completing their specialist training, dermatologists progress through different seniority levels:
- Associate Consultant: The entry level after completing the 6-year specialist training program
- Consultant: Typically attained after serving 1 year as an associate consultant
- Senior Consultant: A title only conferred by public institutions after approximately 5+ years as a consultant
Most dermatologists in private practice are at the consultant level, having gained substantial experience in public hospitals before establishing their own practices.
To verify a dermatologist’s specialist qualifications and experience level, you can use the Singapore Medical Council’s (SMC) doctor directory search. This resource allows you to check when a doctor received their specialist accreditation and how many years of experience they have in their specialty.
Public vs Private Dermatologists in Singapore
Key Differences
When deciding between seeing a dermatologist in the public or private sector, there are several factors to consider:
Time and Convenience
- Private Dermatologists: Offer significantly shorter waiting times, typically providing appointments within 1-2 days. Many also accept walk-in patients.
- Public (Subsidized) Care: Wait times at the National Skin Centre can extend to 4-6 weeks for new appointments. Walk-ins are not accepted for subsidized care.
Pro Tip: If you’re seeing a dermatologist for a skin rash via the public route with a long waiting time, take clear photos of your condition when it flares up. This helps your doctor make an accurate diagnosis, as the condition may have improved by your appointment date.
Choosing Your Doctor
- Private Practice: You can select your preferred dermatologist and continue follow-up care with the same doctor.
- Public (Subsidized) Care: You typically cannot choose your dermatologist, though you will be seen by a consultant on your first visit (often after an initial assessment by a medical officer).
- Public (Private Route): The NSC also offers an unsubsidized “private route” where you can choose and follow up with a specific dermatologist and receive quicker appointments.
Cost Comparison: Public vs Private Dermatologists
Consultation Fees
Private Dermatologists
- First consultation: Approximately $120-$140
- Medications: Additional $150-$300 to your final bill
National Skin Centre (Subsidized Rates)
For Singapore Citizens:
- First consultation: $36
- Follow-up consultation: $34
For Singapore Permanent Residents:
- First consultation: $54
- Follow-up consultation: $51
National Skin Centre (Private/Unsubsidized Rates)
The rates vary according to the seniority of the doctor:
For Singapore Residents:
- Senior Consultant: $121 (first visit), $90 (follow-up)
- Consultant: $110 (first visit), $79 (follow-up)
- Associate Consultant: $97 (first visit), $68 (follow-up)
For Non-Residents:
- Senior Consultant: $139.14 (first visit), $103.50 (follow-up)
- Consultant: $126.50 (first visit), $90.84 (follow-up)
- Associate Consultant: $111.55 (first visit), $78.20 (follow-up)
Cosmetic and Aesthetic Procedure Costs
Skin procedures that are considered cosmetic are typically costly regardless of whether you choose a public or private dermatologist, as they are:
- Almost always classified as cosmetic treatments
- Not eligible for subsidies or Medisave claims
- Often require multiple sessions for optimal results
Common cosmetic procedures include:
- Fractional lasers for acne scars
- Botox and dermal fillers
- Chemical peels
- Mole removal (for cosmetic purposes)
- Treatments for pigmentation, melasma, and birthmarks
Note: Certain procedures may be eligible for subsidies or Medisave claims if deemed medically necessary, such as removing a suspicious mole for cancer screening. This is determined on a case-by-case basis by your dermatologist.
How to Qualify for Subsidized Dermatological Care
To be eligible for subsidized rates at the National Skin Centre, you must:
- Be a Singaporean citizen or Permanent Resident (holding a Singapore NRIC)
- Obtain a referral letter from a polyclinic or an SAF medical officer/camp
You will NOT qualify for subsidies if you:
- Are a foreigner
- Request to see a specific dermatologist
- Are referred by a private doctor or private hospital
Important: Without a polyclinic referral letter, you’ll be charged as a private patient at the NSC, significantly increasing your costs.
Types of Dermatologists in Singapore
Dermatologists in Singapore generally fall into two main categories based on their practice focus:
1. Medical Dermatologists
These specialists focus primarily on diagnosing and treating skin diseases such as:
- Skin cancers
- Acne
- Eczema
- Pediatric dermatology conditions
- Psoriasis
- Autoimmune skin conditions
- Skin allergies
- Hair loss
- Nail disorders
Dermatologists at the National Skin Centre typically specialize in medical dermatology.
2. Cosmetic Dermatologists
These dermatologists concentrate on providing aesthetic skin treatments, including:
- Laser treatments
- Botox and filler injections
- Threadlifts
- Other cosmetic procedures
Many private dermatologists offer both medical and cosmetic services, providing some overlap between the two specializations.
Interesting fact: Dermatologists in Singapore are also trained to diagnose and manage sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The Department of STI Control (DSC Clinic) is staffed and managed by dermatologists, as many STDs first present with skin manifestations.
Choosing Between Dermatologists, GPs, and Aesthetic Doctors
For Acne and Acne Scar Treatment
General Practitioners (GPs)
- Typically offer limited treatment options:
- Basic topical acne creams (e.g., Benzoyl Peroxide)
- Antibiotics like Doxycycline
- Generally do not treat acne scars
- May be reluctant to prescribe isotretinoin (Roaccutane)
Dermatologists
- Provide more comprehensive treatment options:
- Topical retinoids
- Oral isotretinoin (Roaccutane)
- Laser treatments for both active acne and scarring
Aesthetic Doctors/Cosmetic Dermatologists
- Often offer the latest (and most expensive) treatment options
- Specialize in aesthetic procedures for acne scar removal
- May provide various cutting-edge technologies for skin rejuvenation
For Eczema Treatment
General Practitioners
- Well-equipped to handle mild to moderate eczema cases
- Typically prescribe moisturizers and steroid creams
- Cost-effective option for initial treatment
Dermatologists
- Better suited for severe or treatment-resistant eczema
- Offer advanced treatment options:
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (steroid-free creams like Tacrolimus)
- Phototherapy (UVA-1) for hand/foot eczema
- Oral steroids and immunosuppressants for severe cases
For Hair Loss Treatment
All qualified dermatologists can diagnose and treat hair loss conditions. Common treatments include:
- Minoxidil solutions/shampoos
- Oral Finasteride (Propecia) – for men only
Not all dermatologists offer hair transplantation services, as this requires specialized training and a dedicated team of technicians. If you’re seeking hair transplantation, contact clinics beforehand to confirm they provide this service.
How to Find the Right Dermatologist for Your Needs
Verify Specialist Credentials
First, confirm that the doctor is indeed a qualified dermatology specialist. This can be checked through the Singapore Medical Council’s website. Be aware that some doctors may have a Diploma in Dermatology, which is not equivalent to full specialist qualification.
Consider Your Specific Needs
When selecting a dermatologist, consider:
- Time constraints and budget (public vs private route)
- The nature of your condition (medical vs cosmetic)
- Specific treatments you’re seeking (as some clinics may not offer certain procedures)
Personal Compatibility
The relationship with your dermatologist matters significantly for effective treatment:
- Look for a doctor you can communicate with comfortably
- Consider whether you can establish good rapport
- Trust your instincts about their approach to your concerns
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if I need to see a dermatologist or if a GP is sufficient?
A: Consider seeing a dermatologist if:
- Your skin condition hasn’t improved despite treatment from a GP
- You have a severe or rapidly worsening skin condition
- You need specialized treatments like isotretinoin for acne or phototherapy for psoriasis
- You’re concerned about potential skin cancer
- You’re seeking cosmetic procedures for skin rejuvenation or scar treatment
Q: Can I use Medisave to pay for dermatologist consultations?
A: Generally, Medisave cannot be used for regular dermatology consultations. However, it may be usable for certain procedures if they’re deemed medically necessary (not cosmetic). This determination is made by your dermatologist on a case-by-case basis.
Q: How often should I follow up with my dermatologist after starting treatment?
A: Follow-up schedules vary based on your condition:
- Acne treatments: Typically every 4-12 weeks
- Eczema: Every 2-3 months for moderate cases, more frequently for severe flare-ups
- Psoriasis: Every 3-6 months for maintenance, more frequently during flares
- After procedures: As recommended by your doctor, usually within 1-2 weeks
Q: What’s the difference between a dermatologist and an aesthetic doctor?
A: A dermatologist is a fully qualified medical specialist who has completed 6 years of specialized training after medical school and can diagnose and treat all skin conditions. An aesthetic doctor is typically a general practitioner who has taken additional courses in cosmetic procedures but lacks the comprehensive dermatological training of a specialist.
Q: Can dermatologists treat all types of scars?
A: Dermatologists can treat many types of scars, but complete removal is often not possible. They can significantly improve the appearance of various scars through:
- Laser resurfacing
- Chemical peels
- Microneedling
- Steroid injections
- Surgical revision The approach depends on the scar type, location, and individual skin characteristics.
Q: How long does it typically take to see improvement for skin conditions like acne or eczema?
A: Treatment timelines vary:
- Acne: Minor improvement within 4-6 weeks; significant improvement may take 3-4 months, especially with treatments like isotretinoin
- Eczema: Flare-ups may calm within days of treatment, but long-term management is ongoing
- Psoriasis: Initial improvement within 2-4 weeks; clearance may take 2-3 months depending on severity
- Aesthetic procedures: Results can be immediately visible or develop over several weeks to months
Q: Are there any subsidies available for cosmetic dermatology procedures?
A: Generally, cosmetic procedures are not eligible for subsidies as they’re considered elective. However, if a procedure serves both cosmetic and medical purposes (such as laser treatment for a scarring condition that impacts function), your dermatologist may determine it qualifies for partial subsidy or Medisave coverage.
Conclusion
Finding the right dermatologist in Singapore involves considering your specific skin concerns, budget constraints, time availability, and personal preferences. Whether you choose the public or private route, ensuring your doctor is a qualified specialist who you can communicate effectively with is key to successful treatment outcomes.
For serious or persistent skin conditions, investing in specialist dermatological care often leads to more effective and efficient resolution of your concerns. Remember that building a good relationship with your dermatologist is essential, especially for chronic conditions that require ongoing management.