Cosmetic Dermatologists in London
A cosmetic dermatologist is a medical specialist who treats aesthetic skin concerns using medical-grade procedures including botox, dermal fillers, laser therapy, chemical peels, and skin tightening treatments. London has 47 qualified cosmetic dermatologists across Harley Street, Kensington, Chelsea, and central areas with advanced training in aesthetic medicine following full dermatology qualifications including MBChB, MRCP(UK), and CCT in Dermatology.
Cosmetic dermatologists differ from aesthetic practitioners through medical dermatology training enabling comprehensive skin assessment, identification of underlying medical conditions affecting appearance, and integration of medical treatments with aesthetic procedures for optimal results. All listed specialists hold GMC registration with specialist dermatology certification.
What Treatments Do Cosmetic Dermatologists Offer?
Cosmetic dermatologists treat aesthetic skin concerns using medical-grade procedures including anti-ageing treatments, skin rejuvenation, pigmentation correction, scar revision, and facial contouring. These specialists combine dermatology expertise with aesthetic medicine to address wrinkles, volume loss, skin laxity, uneven tone, acne scars, and sun damage.
Core Aesthetic Treatments
1. Botox (Botulinum Toxin)
Botox reduces dynamic wrinkles including forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines by temporarily relaxing facial muscles. Treatment lasts 3-4 months with results visible within 3-7 days.
Treatment areas: Forehead, glabella (between eyebrows), crow's feet, bunny lines, lip flip, gummy smile, jawline slimming, neck bands
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Downtime: None (immediate return to activities)
Cost: £200-£600 per area
Find botox specialists in London for anti-ageing treatments.
2. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers restore facial volume, enhance contours, and reduce wrinkles using hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, or poly-L-lactic acid. Results last 6-18 months depending on filler type and treatment area.
Treatment areas: Cheeks, lips, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, tear troughs, temples, jawline, chin
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Downtime: 24-48 hours (possible swelling, bruising)
Cost: £300-£800 per syringe
3. Laser Treatments
Cosmetic dermatologists use medical-grade lasers for skin rejuvenation, pigmentation correction, vascular lesion treatment, and hair removal with superior safety and efficacy compared to beauty clinic devices.
Laser types:
Fractional CO2/Erbium (skin resurfacing, wrinkles, scars)
Pulsed dye laser/Nd:YAG (rosacea, thread veins, birthmarks)
Q-switched lasers (pigmentation, melasma, sun spots)
Alexandrite/Nd:YAG (hair removal)
Sessions: 3-6 typically
Downtime: 3-14 days depending on laser type
Cost: £200-£2,000 per session
4. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels exfoliate skin using medical-grade acids improving texture, tone, acne, fine lines, and pigmentation. Dermatologists prescribe appropriate peel strength and formulation for skin type and concerns.
Peel types:
Superficial (glycolic, salicylic acid): 0-3 days downtime
Medium depth (TCA): 5-7 days downtime
Deep peels (phenol): 10-14 days downtime (rarely performed)
Cost: £150-£600 per session
5. Skin Tightening & Rejuvenation
Non-surgical skin tightening uses radiofrequency, ultrasound (Ultherapy), or microneedling with radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production and improve skin laxity.
Treatments: Thermage, Ultherapy, Morpheus8, Secret RF
Sessions: 1-3 treatments
Results: Gradual improvement over 3-6 months
Cost: £500-£3,000 per treatment
6. Microneedling
Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries stimulating collagen and elastin production for improved skin texture, scars, and fine lines. Dermatologists combine microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or growth factors.
Uses: Acne scars, surgical scars, stretch marks, skin texture, fine lines
Sessions: 3-6 typically
Downtime: 2-3 days redness
Cost: £200-£500 per session
7. Thread Lifts
Thread lifts provide non-surgical facial lifting using dissolvable PDO threads inserted beneath skin to lift sagging tissue and stimulate collagen production.
Areas: Mid-face, jowls, neck, brow lift
Duration: 12-18 months
Downtime: 3-5 days
Cost: £800-£2,500
Top Cosmetic Dermatologists in London
Harley Street Cosmetic Dermatologists
Dr. Anjali Mahto - Harley Street
Specialises in cosmetic dermatology for skin of colour with expertise in pigmentation correction, acne scar treatment, and anti-ageing procedures. Combines medical dermatology with aesthetic treatments for comprehensive skin health.
Key Services: Botox, fillers, chemical peels, laser therapy, melasma treatment
Consultation: £275
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View Dr. Anjali Mahto
Dr. Sam Bunting - Marylebone
Provides evidence-based cosmetic dermatology with integrated prescription skincare protocols. Specialises in acne treatment, rosacea management, and medical-grade aesthetic procedures.
Key Services: Prescription retinoids, chemical peels, laser therapy, botox, bespoke skincare
Consultation: £285
Insurance: Self-pay
Profile: View Dr. Sam Bunting
Professor Firas Al-Niaimi - Harley Street
Combines dermatological surgery expertise with advanced laser and aesthetic procedures. Specialises in laser skin resurfacing, scar revision, pigmentation treatment, and facial rejuvenation.
Key Services: Fractional CO2 laser, Q-switched laser, botox, fillers, thread lifts
Consultation: £350
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality accepted
Profile: View Professor Al-Niaimi
Dr. Adam Friedmann - The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic
Offers comprehensive cosmetic dermatology including injectables, laser treatments, and skin rejuvenation procedures. Provides medical-grade aesthetic treatments with dermatology expertise.
Key Services: Botox, fillers, laser therapy, chemical peels, skin tightening
Consultation: £300
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality, WPA accepted
Profile: View clinic
SK:N Clinic Harley Street
Multi-specialist cosmetic dermatology clinic offering comprehensive aesthetic treatments led by consultant dermatologists. Provides botox, fillers, laser therapy, and advanced skin rejuvenation.
Key Services: Injectables, laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, thread lifts
Consultation: £250-£300
Insurance: Some accepted
Profile: View SK:N Clinic
Kensington & Chelsea Cosmetic Dermatologists
De Felipe Dermatology Clinic - Kensington
Combines medical and cosmetic dermatology with consultant-led aesthetic treatments. Offers botox, fillers, laser therapy, and skin rejuvenation procedures in West London.
Key Services: Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels
Consultation: £270
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View De Felipe Dermatology
Belgravia Dermatology - Belgravia
Luxury cosmetic dermatology clinic providing medical-grade aesthetic treatments including botox, fillers, laser therapy, and advanced skin rejuvenation in prestigious Belgravia location.
Key Services: Injectables, laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling
Consultation: £280
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Belgravia Dermatology
Central London Cosmetic Specialists
Dr. Haus Dermatology - Central London
Provides comprehensive cosmetic dermatology combining medical expertise with aesthetic treatments. Offers botox, fillers, laser therapy, and prescription skincare protocols.
Key Services: Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels, medical skincare
Consultation: £265
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Haus
City Dermatology Clinic - City of London
Convenient City location offering cosmetic dermatology services for professionals. Provides botox, fillers, laser treatments with flexible appointment scheduling.
Key Services: Botox, fillers, laser therapy, chemical peels
Consultation: £250
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality accepted
Profile: View City Dermatology
Additional Cosmetic Clinics
Phi Clinic - Marylebone
High-end cosmetic clinic offering comprehensive aesthetic treatments including botox, fillers, laser therapy, and advanced skin rejuvenation procedures.
Profile: View Phi Clinic
Covent Garden Skin Clinic
Central London cosmetic dermatology providing botox, fillers, laser treatments, and aesthetic procedures in convenient Covent Garden location.
Profile: View clinic
Dr. David Jack Clinic - Harley Street
Specialist cosmetic dermatology clinic offering advanced aesthetic treatments including botox, fillers, thread lifts, and skin rejuvenation.
Profile: View Dr. David Jack
Harley Street Injectables
Dedicated injectable clinic providing botox, dermal fillers, and aesthetic treatments led by experienced cosmetic dermatologists.
Profile: View clinic
Where to Find Cosmetic Dermatologists in London
Harley Street & Marylebone
Harley Street remains London's premier location for cosmetic dermatology with 30+ specialist clinics offering comprehensive aesthetic treatments. The area provides access to leading consultant dermatologists with advanced training in cosmetic procedures.
Notable specialists:
Dr. Anjali Mahto
Dr. Sam Bunting (Marylebone)
Professor Firas Al-Niaimi
Dr. Adam Friedmann
SK:N Clinic Harley Street
Transport: Baker Street, Regent's Park, Oxford Circus stations
Parking: NCP Cavendish Square, Marylebone
View all Harley Street dermatologists for complete specialist listings.
Kensington & Chelsea
West London's Kensington and Chelsea areas offer luxury cosmetic dermatology clinics with consultant-led aesthetic treatments in prestigious locations.
Notable specialists:
De Felipe Dermatology Clinic
Belgravia Dermatology
Transport: High Street Kensington, Gloucester Road, Sloane Square, South Kensington
Explore Kensington dermatologists for West London options.
Central London
Central London provides convenient cosmetic dermatology access with clinics in Westminster, City, Marylebone, and Covent Garden serving professionals requiring flexible scheduling.
Notable specialists:
Dr. Haus Dermatology
City Dermatology Clinic
Covent Garden Skin Clinic
Browse central London cosmetic dermatologists for comprehensive coverage.
How to Choose a Cosmetic Dermatologist
Selecting the right cosmetic dermatologist ensures safe, effective aesthetic treatments with natural-looking results. Follow this systematic approach to identify qualified specialists.
Step 1: Verify Medical Qualifications
Cosmetic dermatologists must hold:
GMC specialist registration in dermatology
MBChB or MBBS medical degree
MRCP(UK) or equivalent
CCT in Dermatology (Certificate of Completion of Training)
Additional aesthetic medicine training
Non-medical practitioners cannot prescribe prescription treatments or manage complications requiring medical expertise. Choose GMC-registered dermatologists for optimal safety and outcomes.
Step 2: Assess Specialisation & Experience
Cosmetic dermatologists vary in aesthetic focus:
Injectables specialists: Botox, fillers (Dr. Anjali Mahto, Dr. Sam Bunting)
Laser specialists: Laser resurfacing, pigmentation (Professor Firas Al-Niaimi)
Comprehensive aesthetic: Full range treatments (Dr. Adam Friedmann, SK:N Clinic)
Acne & scarring: Medical dermatology with aesthetics (Dr. Sam Bunting)
Match specialist expertise to your aesthetic goals.
Step 3: Review Before & After Photos
Reputable cosmetic dermatologists provide before/after photographs demonstrating treatment results. Assess:
Natural-looking outcomes
Appropriate correction without overcorrection
Diverse patient examples
Realistic expectations setting
Request photographs for specific treatments you're considering.
Step 4: Consider Consultation Approach
Quality cosmetic dermatologists:
Perform comprehensive facial assessment
Discuss realistic expectations
Explain alternative treatment options
Identify contraindications
Provide detailed aftercare instructions
Offer follow-up appointments
Avoid practitioners offering immediate treatment without thorough consultation.
Step 5: Evaluate Clinic Facilities & Safety
Medical-grade cosmetic procedures require appropriate clinic standards:
Clean, clinical environment
Emergency protocols
Sterile technique
Quality product sourcing (genuine botox, FDA-approved fillers)
Proper medical waste disposal
Read our comprehensive guide on choosing a dermatologist for detailed selection criteria.
Cosmetic Dermatology Costs in London
Cosmetic dermatology consultation fees range £250-£350 for initial assessment. Treatment costs vary by procedure complexity, product quantity, and specialist experience.
Treatment Pricing Guide
Treatment | Cost Range | Duration | Sessions |
|---|---|---|---|
Botox (per area) | £200-£600 | 3-4 months | Single treatment |
Dermal Fillers (per syringe) | £300-£800 | 6-18 months | 1-2 syringes typically |
Chemical Peel (superficial) | £150-£300 | N/A | 3-6 sessions |
Chemical Peel (medium) | £300-£600 | N/A | 1-3 sessions |
Laser Resurfacing | £500-£2,000 | Permanent (ageing continues) | 1-3 sessions |
Laser Hair Removal (per session) | £100-£400 | Permanent reduction | 6-8 sessions |
Microneedling | £200-£500 | 6-12 months | 3-6 sessions |
PRP Therapy | £300-£700 | 6-12 months | 3-4 sessions |
Thread Lift | £800-£2,500 | 12-18 months | Single treatment |
Skin Tightening (Ultherapy/Thermage) | £1,500-£3,000 | 12-24 months | 1-2 sessions |
Insurance Coverage
Private medical insurance excludes cosmetic procedures classified as aesthetic enhancement:
NOT covered:
Botox for wrinkles
Dermal fillers
Cosmetic laser treatments
Chemical peels (aesthetic)
Elective scar revision
SOMETIMES covered:
Botox for medical conditions (hyperhidrosis, migraines)
Laser therapy for medical birthmarks
Scar revision following medical procedures
All cosmetic dermatology treatments require self-pay. Some clinics offer payment plans for treatments exceeding £1,000.
View our insurance coverage guide for detailed information.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Cosmetic dermatology consultations last 30-45 minutes and include facial assessment, treatment planning, and realistic expectations discussion.
Consultation Process
1. Medical History & Goals (10 minutes)
The dermatologist reviews your medical history, current medications, previous cosmetic treatments, allergies, and aesthetic goals. Discuss specific concerns including wrinkles, volume loss, skin texture, pigmentation, or scars.
2. Facial Assessment (10-15 minutes)
Comprehensive facial examination evaluates:
Skin quality, texture, elasticity
Wrinkle depth and location
Volume loss areas
Facial asymmetry
Skin laxity
Underlying medical skin conditions
Photography documents baseline appearance for treatment monitoring.
3. Treatment Planning (10-15 minutes)
The dermatologist recommends appropriate treatments matching your goals, skin type, and budget. Discussion includes:
Recommended procedures
Expected results and limitations
Alternative treatment options
Potential risks and side effects
Recovery time and aftercare
Treatment costs
4. Realistic Expectations
Quality dermatologists set realistic expectations explaining:
Achievable outcomes for your skin type and age
Limitations of non-surgical treatments
Maintenance requirements
Natural ageing continuation
Questions to Ask
What are your qualifications in cosmetic dermatology?
How many of these procedures have you performed?
Can I see before/after photos of your patients?
What brands of botox/fillers do you use?
What are the risks specific to my skin type?
What happens if I'm unhappy with results?
Do you offer reversal options (for fillers)?
What is your complication management protocol?
Read our first appointment guide for comprehensive preparation advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cosmetic dermatologist?
A cosmetic dermatologist is a medical doctor with full dermatology training including MBChB, MRCP(UK), and CCT in Dermatology who additionally specialises in aesthetic procedures including botox, fillers, laser therapy, chemical peels, and skin rejuvenation. These specialists combine medical dermatology expertise with cosmetic medicine enabling comprehensive skin assessment, medical-grade treatments, and management of aesthetic concerns alongside underlying skin conditions.
How much does cosmetic dermatology cost in London?
Cosmetic dermatology consultations in London cost £250-£350. Treatment costs vary: botox £200-£600 per area, dermal fillers £300-£800 per syringe, laser treatments £200-£1,500 per session, chemical peels £150-£600 depending on depth. Harley Street specialists typically charge premium rates £280-£350 consultations while other London areas may offer £250-£280 consultations.
Is cosmetic dermatology covered by insurance?
Private medical insurance excludes cosmetic procedures classified as aesthetic enhancement including botox for wrinkles, dermal fillers, cosmetic laser treatments, and elective chemical peels. Insurance may cover medically necessary treatments including botox for hyperhidrosis or migraines, laser therapy for medical birthmarks, and scar revision following medical procedures. All aesthetic treatments require self-pay with some clinics offering payment plans.
What's the difference between a cosmetic dermatologist and an aesthetic nurse?
Cosmetic dermatologists complete 5 years medical school, 2 years foundation training, and 4 years specialist dermatology training receiving CCT in Dermatology. Aesthetic nurses complete nursing training with additional aesthetic courses. Dermatologists can prescribe medications, perform surgery, manage complications, and treat underlying medical conditions affecting appearance. Nurses work under medical supervision and cannot prescribe or perform complex procedures.
How do I choose between Harley Street and other London areas?
Harley Street offers the highest concentration of specialist cosmetic dermatologists with 30+ clinics, prestigious addresses, and experienced consultants. Other London areas including Kensington, Chelsea, City, and Marylebone provide quality cosmetic dermatology with potentially lower consultation fees and convenient local access. Choose based on specialist expertise, convenient location, and consultation costs rather than address prestige.
Are cosmetic dermatology results permanent?
Cosmetic dermatology results vary by treatment type. Botox lasts 3-4 months requiring repeat treatments. Dermal fillers last 6-18 months depending on filler type and area treated. Laser treatments provide long-lasting results but ageing continues requiring maintenance. Chemical peels improve skin quality with results lasting months to years. Thread lifts last 12-18 months. Most aesthetic treatments require ongoing maintenance for sustained results.
Can cosmetic dermatologists treat acne scars?
Cosmetic dermatologists specialise in acne scar treatment using laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, subcision, and dermal fillers. Fractional CO2 laser and erbium laser resurface skin improving texture and scar depth. Microneedling with PRP stimulates collagen production. TCA cross treats ice-pick scars. Dr. Anjali Mahto and Dr. Sam Bunting combine acne treatment with scar revision for comprehensive management.
What should I avoid before cosmetic dermatology treatments?
Before botox or fillers avoid blood-thinning medications including aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil for 7 days reducing bruising risk. Avoid alcohol 24 hours before treatment. Discontinue retinoids 3 days before chemical peels or laser treatments. Inform your dermatologist about all medications, supplements, and medical conditions. Arrive with clean skin without makeup.
How long is recovery after cosmetic procedures?
Recovery varies by procedure. Botox and fillers require no downtime with possible mild swelling or bruising for 24-48 hours. Superficial chemical peels cause 2-3 days mild peeling. Medium-depth peels require 5-7 days downtime. Fractional laser treatments need 3-5 days redness and peeling. CO2 laser resurfacing requires 10-14 days recovery. Microneedling causes 2-3 days redness. Thread lifts need 3-5 days with visible sutures.
Can men have cosmetic dermatology treatments?
Male patients receive botox, fillers, laser therapy, chemical peels, and aesthetic treatments from cosmetic dermatologists. Treatment protocols differ from female patients considering facial anatomy, skin thickness, and aesthetic goals. Common male treatments include botox for forehead lines, frown lines, jawline contouring, laser hair removal, acne scar treatment, and skin rejuvenation. Many specialists offer male-specific aesthetic services.
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