20 Interesting Statistics About Dermatologists in the UK
Dermatology isn’t just about treating the occasional spot or rash – it’s a complex, fast-evolving field that’s integral to public health. In the UK, where skin cancer rates are rising and demand for specialist care is at an all-time high, dermatologists are more important than ever. So, if you’re curious about the people behind the white coats, here are 20 insightful stats that lift the lid on dermatologists in the UK.
1. There are around 1,500 consultant dermatologists currently practising in the UK
Considering the UK’s growing population, the number of consultant dermatologists is surprisingly low. A population of over 67 million being served by just 1,500 specialists means the ratio of dermatologist to citizen is far from ideal. This imbalance puts pressure on services and contributes to long waits and stretched resources.
The demand for dermatological care has grown significantly in recent years due to increasing awareness of skin health and rising skin cancer rates. With more people actively seeking medical advice for rashes, moles, acne and cosmetic concerns, dermatologists are constantly juggling high patient volumes.
To address the shortfall, more dermatology posts are being advertised across NHS trusts. However, attracting and retaining specialists remains a challenge, partly due to the length of training and the appeal of private practice. Until more posts are filled, the pressure on existing consultants is likely to remain high.
2. Dermatology is one of the shortest-staffed specialities in the NHS
Across the board, NHS dermatology departments are grappling with staff shortages. Around 20% of dermatology consultant posts are either unfilled or being temporarily covered by locums. This has a knock-on effect on continuity of care, waiting times, and patient satisfaction.
The lack of permanent staff can lead to disjointed care, where patients are seen by different doctors at each appointment. This inconsistency can delay diagnosis, make follow-up harder, and reduce trust between patients and clinicians. It also makes long-term management of chronic skin conditions more complicated.
One contributing factor is the limited number of dermatology training posts available each year. While medical graduates are often interested in dermatology, there simply aren’t enough placements to meet demand. Addressing this bottleneck is crucial if the NHS is to build a sustainable dermatology workforce.
3. The average wait time to see an NHS dermatologist is 18 weeks
Waiting over four months to see a dermatologist is now the norm in many areas. This delay can be particularly frustrating for patients dealing with persistent skin issues that affect their appearance, comfort, or self-esteem. The waiting time often stretches further if follow-up treatment or biopsies are needed.
Delays also increase anxiety, especially when a patient has a suspicious mole or unexplained skin lesion. Even when a case is flagged as urgent, some patients still wait weeks for an initial consultation, during which time their condition may worsen or become more difficult to treat.
Efforts are underway to streamline referral pathways, especially for suspected cancer cases. But with a limited number of consultants, the only real long-term solution is to increase capacity – whether through more training posts, better funding, or collaboration with private clinics to absorb some of the load.
4. Over 54% of dermatology referrals are for suspected skin cancer
Skin cancer has become a major public health concern, and it now dominates dermatology referrals in the NHS. More than half of all cases referred to dermatologists are flagged as potential malignancies, reflecting a national push for early detection and intervention.
Public awareness campaigns have encouraged people to keep an eye on their skin and act quickly if they notice changes. This has led to more GP referrals, especially under the two-week cancer pathway. While this is a positive trend in terms of vigilance, it has also placed an enormous burden on dermatology clinics.
As a result, dermatologists are now spending more of their time performing mole checks, biopsies, and minor surgeries. While still managing chronic skin conditions and cosmetic issues, their workload is increasingly dominated by cancer detection and management, making it vital that resources match this shift in focus.
5. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK
More people in the UK are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than any other cancer type. With over 250,000 new cases reported annually, it’s clear that skin health is a national concern – and dermatologists are central to tackling it.
Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, account for the majority of these cases. Although often treatable, they still require expert diagnosis and surgical removal to prevent complications. Melanoma, while less common, is far more aggressive and demands immediate specialist input.
This rise in skin cancer has been linked to increased sun exposure, tanning bed use, and an ageing population. Dermatologists are not only treating these cancers but also playing a key role in educating the public about sun safety, early detection, and regular skin checks.
6. About 60% of dermatology patients are female
Women tend to visit dermatologists more often than men, accounting for the majority of appointments in both NHS and private settings. This trend holds across a range of skin concerns, from acne and pigmentation to routine mole checks and cosmetic treatments.
One reason for this is that women are often more proactive about skincare and health checks in general. Cultural factors and societal expectations also play a role, especially when it comes to visible skin issues like scarring or premature ageing, which may prompt women to seek help sooner.
However, it’s worth noting that men may underreport or delay seeking care for skin problems, particularly if the issue doesn’t cause pain. This can lead to late diagnoses of skin cancer or chronic conditions. Dermatologists continue to encourage everyone – regardless of gender – to prioritise their skin health.
7. The average dermatologist in the UK earns around £100,000 to £150,000 annually
Dermatology is one of the better-paid medical specialties in the UK, with most consultants earning six-figure salaries. NHS pay scales start around £90,000 and increase with seniority, while private practice can push earnings much higher depending on workload and location.
The high salary reflects the level of specialisation, the demand for services, and the complex nature of diagnosing and treating a wide variety of skin conditions. Dermatologists also undergo extensive training – often over a decade – before reaching consultant level.
Private dermatologists, especially those in London or major cities, can command significantly higher fees for consultations, minor procedures, and cosmetic treatments. This earning potential is one reason dermatology remains highly competitive among medical graduates.
8. Nearly one in five UK dermatologists also work in the private sector
Private dermatology services are growing, and many consultants split their time between NHS hospitals and private clinics. This dual model offers flexibility and can help meet the growing demand for faster, more accessible skin care.
In private practice, patients can often get appointments within days rather than weeks. This is particularly appealing for non-urgent concerns such as acne, rosacea, or cosmetic mole removals, which may not be prioritised in the NHS due to capacity limits.
However, the growth of private dermatology has sparked debate about equity of access. Those who can afford private care get quicker treatment, while others face lengthy waits. Balancing both sectors is a continuing challenge, especially as more consultants opt for private work due to better pay and reduced bureaucracy.
9. Around 25% of dermatology patients are referred due to chronic inflammatory conditions
Chronic inflammatory skin diseases, such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, make up a significant portion of dermatology caseloads. These conditions often persist for years and can flare unpredictably, requiring ongoing management from a specialist rather than a one-time fix.
Patients with these conditions often struggle not just physically, but emotionally too. The impact on self-confidence, sleep, and daily routines can be profound. Dermatologists must take a holistic approach, balancing medication with patient education, psychological support, and lifestyle advice.
Because these conditions are lifelong for many people, dermatology clinics tend to develop long-term relationships with patients. Managing these cases requires careful monitoring of treatment plans, including topical and systemic medications, and regular check-ins to prevent complications and reduce hospital admissions.
10. The UK has only four dedicated dermatology training centres
Despite the high demand for dermatologists, the UK only has four primary centres offering comprehensive training in the specialty. These hubs are responsible for producing the next generation of consultants – but the limited number makes expanding the workforce a slow process.
Medical students and junior doctors interested in dermatology often have to compete for a small number of highly competitive posts. This bottleneck is a major reason why the workforce hasn’t grown in line with demand. Even though more applicants show interest every year, the training capacity simply isn’t there yet.
Widening access to dermatology training would not only help ease current pressures on the NHS but also allow for greater regional distribution of specialists. Expanding training centres or creating satellite programmes in underserved areas could help tackle the current imbalance.
11. Dermatology was ranked the third most competitive medical specialty in the UK in recent years
Dermatology attracts some of the highest-performing junior doctors, making it one of the toughest specialties to get into. In recent recruitment rounds, it ranked just behind plastic surgery and cardiology in terms of competition, with over ten applicants for every available training post.
What makes dermatology so desirable? It’s a specialty with a good work-life balance, minimal emergency work, and opportunities for private practice. It also combines elements of surgery, medicine, and pathology, making it intellectually stimulating and varied.
However, this competitiveness means that many excellent candidates are turned away each year. As a result, the specialty continues to suffer from under-recruitment, and many posts remain unfilled even though there are people eager to do the job. It’s a classic case of high demand and limited supply.
12. Acne is the most common reason for a dermatology appointment among teenagers
Teenagers are particularly prone to acne, with over 85% experiencing it at some point. While mild cases can be managed with pharmacy products, more persistent or severe acne often leads to a referral to a dermatologist.
For teens, acne is more than just a skin issue – it can seriously affect confidence and social interaction. Dermatologists play a key role in not only treating the condition with advanced medications like isotretinoin but also in providing reassurance during what can be a stressful time.
Dermatologists also help educate young people on skincare routines, dispelling myths about acne causes and treatment. Early specialist intervention can help prevent scarring and improve long-term outcomes, both physically and emotionally.
13. The UK sees over 700,000 new dermatology referrals through the NHS each year
Each year, the NHS handles over 700,000 fresh dermatology referrals, ranging from routine cases to urgent cancer concerns. This figure doesn’t even include patients who go directly to private clinics or those managed solely in primary care.
The sheer volume of referrals highlights how common skin problems are – and how much they matter to patients. Unlike other health issues, skin conditions are visible, often uncomfortable, and can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.
The NHS is actively trying to manage this influx through triage systems, digital consultations, and upskilling GPs in basic dermatology. However, with the number of cases rising annually, long-term solutions will need to focus on training more consultants and improving access across all regions.
14. About 40% of dermatologists in the UK are based in London and the South East
There’s a significant geographic imbalance when it comes to where dermatologists are located. Nearly half are concentrated in and around London, leaving large parts of the UK – particularly the North and rural areas – with limited access to specialist skin care.
This distribution mismatch means that patients in underserved areas often wait longer for appointments or must travel long distances to see a consultant. Some areas rely heavily on visiting dermatologists who travel in weekly or monthly to hold clinics.
The reasons behind this imbalance include better private sector opportunities in the South, more hospitals with specialist units, and lifestyle preferences among consultants. Addressing this disparity will require targeted investment in regional training and incentives to attract consultants to underserved locations.
15. An estimated 8 million people in the UK live with a long-term skin condition
Skin problems aren’t always fleeting – many people live with chronic conditions that require lifelong care. In the UK, around 8 million people deal with ongoing issues like psoriasis, eczema, acne, and vitiligo.
These conditions often flare unpredictably, affecting work, sleep, and self-esteem. The psychological toll can be heavy, with many patients reporting anxiety or depression related to their skin. Dermatologists, therefore, act as both medical and emotional support.
Despite this widespread need, many people still go without specialist care due to long waits or lack of access. Raising awareness, improving access, and integrating dermatology into mental health support frameworks could go a long way in improving patient outcomes.
16. The UK spends approximately £720 million annually on dermatology services through the NHS
Dermatology may not always be seen as a priority in public health, but it receives significant funding. Around £720 million is spent annually on services ranging from hospital appointments to prescriptions, minor surgeries, and diagnostics.
This funding supports everything from treating acne to managing skin cancer. Yet even with this substantial budget, services remain stretched due to rising demand and workforce shortages. Many departments rely on locum staff, and certain procedures face long delays.
Improving efficiency, investing in teledermatology, and reducing unnecessary referrals could help ensure this funding goes further. But the most effective solution may simply be hiring and training more dermatologists to match patient need.
17. Dermatologists see an average of 25 to 30 patients per day
A typical day for a UK dermatologist is a busy one. In NHS outpatient clinics, it’s not unusual for a consultant to see 25 to 30 patients in a single shift – sometimes more in high-demand areas.
Appointments are often just 10 to 15 minutes long, meaning clinicians must make quick decisions, especially when dealing with urgent or complex cases. This fast pace can be mentally taxing, especially when managing multiple referrals, procedures, and documentation.
Despite the intensity, dermatologists are trained to maintain a high standard of care within these short consultations. The challenge is making time for patient education, follow-up planning, and emotional support – all of which are vital parts of quality dermatological care.
18. Over 95% of skin conditions seen in general practice can be managed without referral
The majority of skin complaints – such as mild acne, eczema, and fungal infections – are effectively managed by GPs. However, with limited dermatology training (typically just two weeks during medical school), GPs often err on the side of caution and refer cases for a second opinion.
This conservative approach is understandable, especially when skin lesions or rashes present atypically. But it also contributes to the high volume of referrals dermatologists receive, many of which could potentially be managed in primary care with more training and support.
To address this, some regions are piloting community dermatology services, where GPs with a special interest (GPwSIs) provide enhanced care. This approach helps ease the burden on hospitals while keeping patients in local, familiar settings for their treatment.
19. A full-body mole check with a private UK dermatologist typically costs £200 to £400
Mole mapping and full-body skin assessments have become increasingly popular, particularly in private dermatology. These checks aren’t usually funded by the NHS unless there’s a specific concern, so patients often pay out of pocket for peace of mind.
Private mole checks typically involve dermoscopy (a close-up scan of the skin using a magnifying tool) and digital imaging to track changes over time. It’s a quick and effective way to catch early signs of melanoma, especially in high-risk individuals.
For those with many moles, a family history of skin cancer, or fair skin prone to burning, these assessments can be life-saving. While the cost may be a barrier for some, many view it as a worthwhile investment in their health.
20. The UK dermatology field is becoming more diverse, with 35% of consultants identifying as non-white
The face of dermatology in the UK is changing. Around 35% of dermatology consultants now come from ethnic minority backgrounds, reflecting greater diversity within the NHS and the growing number of international medical graduates.
This shift is significant, particularly in a specialty where understanding different skin tones and how conditions present on them is crucial. A more diverse workforce can lead to more culturally competent care and better outcomes for patients of all backgrounds.
Efforts to continue improving diversity include mentoring programmes, inclusive recruitment practices, and support for medical students from underrepresented groups. As the UK population becomes more ethnically varied, it’s important that its healthcare workforce evolves in parallel.
Final Thoughts
Dermatology may not always make headlines, but as these stats show, it’s a vital and fascinating part of the UK healthcare system. From tackling skin cancer to supporting patients with lifelong conditions, dermatologists are at the heart of both medical care and public confidence. If you’ve ever underestimated how much our skin says about us – and how hard it is to keep it healthy – hopefully these figures gave you a fresh perspective.