Over the last three and half-decade, there has been changes in dermatology and a marked paradigm shift towards procedural dermatology and cosmetic dermatology. Cosmetic dermatology (aesthetic medicine/medical aesthetics) is now considered a sub-speciality of dermatology. 

Dermatologists dominate the field of aesthetic practitioners as they treat visible and stigmatizing skin disorders. Indian women, in the last two decades, have shown increased interest in dermatology to pursue the aesthetic practice, and have also started their association, the Women’s Dermatologic Society, and their journal, International Journal of Women’s Dermatology (IJWD). 

Skin lightening products are widely used by women, representing one of the largest global markets. Present days are witnessing aesthetic surgical procedures as the way to earn profits. Cosmetology has attracted global attention, particularly in the United States of America. Much of its credit can be given to scientific research in the development of imaging techniques, drug therapy, and other nonsurgical methods reducing downtime for the patients. 

The focus in dermatology is shifting slowly from diseased skin to desired skin which people like. So, the journal CosmoDerma offers an owed place to cosmetology. Moreover, the surge has been seen in the anti-ageing population globally who want to restrain their facial wrinkles and ageing skin changes. 

In the current scenario of no world wars and the increasing longevity of man, the cosmetic industry/aesthetic industry is gushing forward despite the COVID 19 pandemic. All countries need to follow the Accreditation system to regulate the practice of cosmetology practice. Many of these cosmetology practitioners are poorly equipped to conduct cosmetology procedures. Structured training and accreditation for cosmetic dermatology, aesthetic surgery, dermatosurgery, use of lasers, and hair transplantation is warranted.

SOURCE- Thappa DM. Changing face of dermatology – A paradigm shift. Cosmoderma 2021;1:1.