Divas Campbelle Mappa Happy

Interface Aesthetics, United Kingdom

Abstract Title: Misrepresentation of the Title ‘Dermatologist’ among UK aesthetic practitioners: A cross-sectional analysis

Biography:

Research Interest:

Background: Professional titles used within aesthetic medicine strongly influence patient expectations and practitioner selection. In the United Kingdom, the title “dermatologist” denotes a physician listed on the General Medical Council (GMC) Specialist Register in Dermatology following completion of a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT). However, the title itself is not legally protected and may be used by individuals without specialist dermatology accreditation.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the extent of potential misrepresentation of the title “dermatologist” among medically qualified practitioners working in aesthetic medicine in the UK.

Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted of practitioners listed on the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) register. Dental surgeons were excluded. For each practitioner, GMC registration status and inclusion on the Specialist Register were verified. Associated public-facing websites and social media profiles were reviewed for the use of the titles “dermatologist”, “skin specialist”, or “skincare expert”, as well as claims of substantial dermatology training. Title misrepresentation was defined a priori as any public claim of “dermatologist” by a practitioner not listed on the GMC Specialist Register in Dermatology.

Results: Among 345 doctors identified, 196 (56.8%) were listed on a GMC Specialist Register in any specialty, while 134 (38.8%) were licensed non-specialists. Only 2 practitioners (0.6%) were registered dermatologists. Nineteen practitioners (5.5%) described themselves as dermatologists, of whom 17 (4.9%) lacked dermatology specialist registration. Additionally, 23 practitioners (6.7%) used the titles “skin specialist” or “skincare expert”, and 51 (14.8%) referenced substantial dermatology training.

Conclusion: The findings highlight measurable title inflation within UK aesthetic practice. Ambiguous terminology such as “skin specialist” or “skincare expert” may contribute to patient misunderstanding, as these descriptors do not correspond to recognised medical qualifications. Strengthening advertising standards, improving regulatory oversight, and considering formal protection of specialist titles may enhance transparency and promote patient safety within the aesthetic sector.