General Dermatologists London | All Skin Conditions

General Dermatologists in London

A general dermatologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats all skin, hair, and nail conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, skin cancer, infections, and inflammatory disorders. London has 200+ GMC-registered general dermatologists across Harley Street, central boroughs, and outer London areas providing comprehensive medical dermatology with NHS and private practice offering same-day to 2-week appointment availability.

General dermatologists complete 5 years medical training, 2 years foundation training, and 4 years specialist dermatology training receiving Certificate of Completion of Training and GMC specialist registration. These specialists manage both common and complex skin conditions using medical therapy, minor surgery, cryotherapy, phototherapy, and biologic treatments.

What Conditions Do General Dermatologists Treat?

General dermatologists diagnose and manage medical skin conditions affecting patients from infancy through adulthood including inflammatory disorders, infections, autoimmune diseases, skin cancer, hair disorders, and nail conditions. These specialists provide evidence-based medical treatments, prescribe systemic and topical medications, perform skin biopsies, and conduct minor surgical procedures.

Common Skin Conditions

Acne (L70)

Acne affects teenagers and adults causing blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, nodules, and cysts on face, chest, back, and shoulders. General dermatologists treat acne with topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics including doxycycline, hormonal therapy for women, and isotretinoin for severe cases.

Treatment achieves clearance in 80-90% of patients within 3-6 months. Acne treatment specialists manage complex cases with scarring and resistant acne.

Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis (L20)

Eczema causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin affecting face, hands, flexures (elbows, knees), and widespread areas in severe cases. General dermatologists prescribe emollients, topical corticosteroids in appropriate strength, topical calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, systemic immunosuppression including methotrexate and ciclosporin, and biologic therapy with dupilumab for severe cases.

Find eczema treatment options across London specialists.

Psoriasis (L40)

Psoriasis presents as red, scaly plaques on elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and can affect nails and joints. General dermatologists provide topical therapies including vitamin D analogues and corticosteroids, phototherapy with narrowband UVB, systemic treatments including methotrexate and ciclosporin, and biologic therapy with adalimumab, secukinumab, ustekinumab, or ixekizumab.

Severity assessment determines treatment escalation from topical therapy through phototherapy to systemic immunosuppression.

Rosacea (L71)

Rosacea causes facial redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, papules, pustules, and rhinophyma affecting central face. General dermatologists manage rosacea with topical metronidazole or azelaic acid, oral doxycycline, laser therapy for vascular components, lifestyle modification advice, and trigger avoidance strategies.

Skin Cancer (C44, C43)

General dermatologists diagnose and manage basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma through skin cancer screening, dermoscopy, skin biopsy, excision, and specialist referral for complex cases. Early detection through annual skin checks improves cure rates.

Skin cancer treatment specialists perform excision, Mohs surgery, and coordinated care for melanoma.

Infections & Infestations

Fungal Infections

• Athlete's foot (tinea pedis)

• Ringworm (tinea corporis)

• Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis)

• Nail fungus (onychomycosis)

• Candida infections

Treatment includes topical antifungals, oral antifungals for extensive infection, and fungal culture for resistant cases.

Bacterial Infections

• Cellulitis

• Folliculitis

• Impetigo

• Abscesses

Management requires oral antibiotics, wound care, and incision/drainage for abscesses.

Viral Infections

• Warts (verrucae)

• Molluscum contagiosum

• Herpes simplex

• Shingles (herpes zoster)

Treatment includes cryotherapy for warts, topical therapies, and antiviral medications for herpes infections.

Hair & Scalp Disorders

Alopecia

• Androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern hair loss)

• Alopecia areata

• Telogen effluvium

• Scarring alopecias

General dermatologists prescribe topical minoxidil, oral finasteride (men), steroid injections for alopecia areata, and specialist referral for hair transplantation.

Scalp Conditions

• Seborrhoeic dermatitis

• Scalp psoriasis

• Folliculitis

• Lichen planopilaris

Nail Disorders

General dermatologists diagnose and treat:

• Psoriatic nail disease

• Fungal nail infections

• Paronychia (nail fold infections)

• Lichen planus affecting nails

• Onycholysis (nail separation)

Treatment Options Available

General dermatologists provide comprehensive treatment modalities including medical therapy, procedural interventions, and advanced systemic treatments for complex skin conditions.

Medical Treatments

Topical Medications

Dermatologists prescribe prescription-strength topical treatments unavailable over-the-counter:

Corticosteroids: Mild (hydrocortisone 1%), moderate (clobetasone, betamethasone), potent (betamethasone valerate), very potent (clobetasol propionate) - prescribed according to body site and condition severity

Retinoids: Tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene for acne and photoageing

Calcineurin inhibitors: Tacrolimus, pimecrolimus for eczema on face and sensitive areas

Vitamin D analogues: Calcipotriol for psoriasis

Antibiotics: Clindamycin, erythromycin for acne

Antifungals: Terbinafine, clotrimazole for fungal infections

Oral Medications

Systemic therapy treats widespread or severe skin conditions:

Antibiotics: Doxycycline, lymecycline for acne and rosacea (3-6 month courses)

Antifungals: Terbinafine, itraconazole for nail fungus (3-12 months)

Retinoids: Isotretinoin for severe acne (4-6 month courses)

Immunosuppressants: Methotrexate, ciclosporin, azathioprine for psoriasis, eczema, autoimmune conditions

Antimalarials: Hydroxychloroquine for lupus and photosensitive conditions

Biologics: Adalimumab, secukinumab, dupilumab, ustekinumab for severe psoriasis and eczema

Procedural Treatments

Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen freezing treats warts, seborrhoeic keratoses, actinic keratoses, and benign skin lesions. Treatment lasts minutes with blister formation and healing over 1-2 weeks.

Skin Biopsy

Diagnostic skin biopsy confirms diagnosis for uncertain skin conditions, suspected skin cancer, and inflammatory disorders. Biopsy types include shave, punch, and excisional biopsy under local anaesthetic.

Minor Surgery

General dermatologists perform:

• Skin lesion excision

• Cyst removal

• Mole removal

• Skin tag removal

• Lipoma excision

Procedures use local anaesthetic with suture closure and 1-2 week healing.

Phototherapy

Narrowband UVB phototherapy treats psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and other photosensitive conditions. Treatment requires 2-3 sessions weekly for 6-12 weeks achieving remission in 70-80% of patients.

Intralesional Injections

Steroid injections treat:

• Alopecia areata (scalp injections)

• Keloid scars

• Hypertrophic scars

• Localized psoriasis plaques

Patch Testing

Contact allergy testing identifies allergens causing allergic contact dermatitis. Patches remain on back for 48 hours with readings at 48-96 hours identifying sensitivities to metals, fragrances, preservatives, and other contactants.

Top General Dermatologists in London

Harley Street Specialists

Dr. Justine Kluk - Harley Street

Consultant dermatologist specialising in acne, rosacea, and general medical dermatology. Provides comprehensive skin condition management with evidence-based treatments and integrated cosmetic procedures.

Key Services: Acne treatment, rosacea management, skin cancer screening, medical dermatology
Consultation: £280
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Justine Kluk

Dr. Shaaira Nasir - Multiple London Locations

General and paediatric dermatologist managing eczema, psoriasis, and inflammatory skin conditions across all ages. Provides biologic therapy for severe cases.

Key Services: Eczema treatment, psoriasis management, paediatric dermatology, biologics
Consultation: £260
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Shaaira Nasir

Dr. Emma Wedgeworth - Harley Street & South London

General and paediatric dermatologist specialising in eczema management, childhood skin conditions, and inflammatory disorders.

Key Services: Eczema treatment, paediatric dermatology, acne, inflammatory conditions
Consultation: £270
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View Dr. Emma Wedgeworth

Dr. Magnus Lynch - Harley Street

Specialist in complex inflammatory skin conditions with expertise in biologic therapy for severe psoriasis and eczema. Manages patients requiring systemic immunosuppression.

Key Services: Psoriasis treatment, biologic therapy, eczema, immunodermatology
Consultation: £295
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality accepted
Profile: View Dr. Magnus Lynch

Dr. Adam Friedmann - The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic

Comprehensive general dermatology with 20+ years consultant experience. Manages all skin conditions with medical therapy, minor surgery, and coordinated specialist care.

Key Services: Complete dermatology, skin cancer screening, medical dermatology, minor surgery
Consultation: £300
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality, WPA accepted
Profile: View clinic

Central London Dermatologists

London Dermatology Clinic - Harley Street

Multi-consultant dermatology practice offering comprehensive general dermatology services including medical treatment, surgery, and specialist clinics.

Key Services: General dermatology, skin cancer screening, eczema, psoriasis, acne
Consultation: £250-£300
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View clinic

City Dermatology Clinic - City of London

Convenient City location providing comprehensive dermatology with same-day and next-day urgent appointments. Serves professionals requiring flexible scheduling.

Key Services: Medical dermatology, skin cancer screening, minor surgery, same-day appointments
Consultation: £250
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality accepted
Profile: View clinic

Dr. Haus Dermatology - Central London

Comprehensive general dermatology combining medical expertise with evidence-based treatments for all skin conditions.

Key Services: Complete dermatology, acne treatment, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer screening
Consultation: £265
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Haus

Kensington & West London

De Felipe Dermatology Clinic - Kensington

General dermatology clinic in West London providing comprehensive medical dermatology and skin cancer treatment.

Key Services: Medical dermatology, skin cancer screening, eczema, psoriasis
Consultation: £270
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View clinic

Belgravia Dermatology - Belgravia

Comprehensive dermatology services in prestigious Belgravia location combining medical dermatology with accessible specialist care.

Key Services: General dermatology, skin cancer screening, medical treatments
Consultation: £280
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View clinic

Additional London Dermatologists

SK:N Clinic - Multiple London Locations

National dermatology chain with consultant-led services across London providing comprehensive general dermatology.

Profile: View SK:N Clinic

The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic

Established dermatology practice offering complete medical dermatology services with experienced consultant team.

Profile: View clinic

London Skin and Hair Clinic

Comprehensive dermatology and trichology services treating skin and hair conditions.

Profile: View clinic

Faciem Dermatology

Specialist dermatology practice providing medical dermatology and skin cancer services.

Profile: View Faciem

Highgate Dermatology

North London dermatology clinic offering general dermatology services with convenient local access.

Profile: View clinic

Find General Dermatologists by Location

Harley Street & Marylebone

Harley Street remains London's premier medical district with 50+ general dermatologists providing comprehensive medical dermatology services. The area offers immediate access to consultant specialists with 1-2 week appointment availability.

Featured specialists:

• Dr. Justine Kluk

• Dr. Emma Wedgeworth

• Dr. Magnus Lynch

• Dr. Adam Friedmann

• London Dermatology Clinic

Transport: Baker Street, Regent's Park, Oxford Circus
Parking: NCP Cavendish Square

View all Harley Street dermatologists for complete specialist listings.

Central London Boroughs

Central London areas including Westminster, City, Marylebone, and Fitzrovia provide convenient dermatology access with excellent transport links.

Westminster: Belgravia Dermatology
City of London: City Dermatology Clinic
Marylebone: Multiple specialists near Baker Street

Kensington & Chelsea

West London's Kensington and Chelsea areas offer quality general dermatology with convenient local access and parking availability.

Notable clinics:

• De Felipe Dermatology Clinic

• Various Harley Street consultants with Kensington clinics

South London

South London dermatologists provide accessible general dermatology across Wandsworth, Lambeth, Southwark, and surrounding boroughs.

Featured: Dr. Emma Wedgeworth (South London practice)

North London

North London areas including Camden, Islington, Barnet, and Haringey offer local dermatology services.

Featured: Highgate Dermatology

East London

East London dermatologists serve Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Newham, and surrounding areas.

Featured: Dr. Sharon Wong (East London practice)

How to Choose a General Dermatologist

Selecting the right general dermatologist ensures accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and optimal management of your skin condition. Follow this systematic approach to identify qualified specialists.

Step 1: Verify GMC Registration

All dermatologists must hold General Medical Council specialist registration in dermatology confirming:

• MBChB or MBBS medical degree

• MRCP(UK) or equivalent postgraduate qualification

• CCT in Dermatology (Certificate of Completion of Training)

• Specialist register listing

Verify registration at GMC website: www.gmc-uk.org

Step 2: Consider Subspecialty Expertise

General dermatologists develop subspecialty interests matching specific conditions:

Acne specialists: Dr. Justine Kluk, Dr. Sam Bunting
Eczema/psoriasis: Dr. Shaaira Nasir, Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, Dr. Magnus Lynch
Skin cancer: Professor Firas Al-Niaimi, Dr. Sweta Rai
Hair disorders: Dr. Ophelia Veraitch
Children: Dr. Shaaira Nasir, Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, Dr. Sharon Wong
Biologics: Dr. Magnus Lynch

Match specialist expertise to your skin condition for optimal outcomes.

Step 3: Check Location & Accessibility

Consider:

• Clinic proximity to home/work

• Public transport access

• Parking availability

• Multiple location options for flexibility

Many dermatologists offer video consultations for follow-up appointments.

Step 4: Verify Insurance Acceptance

Most dermatologists accept major private medical insurance:

• Bupa

• Axa

• Aviva

• Vitality

• WPA

Some specialists operate self-pay only. Contact clinics before booking to verify insurance acceptance and obtain pre-authorisation.

Step 5: Review Appointment Availability

Typical waiting times:

• Urgent concerns (suspected skin cancer): 48 hours - 1 week

• Routine consultations: 1-3 weeks

• Same-day/next-day: City Dermatology Clinic

NHS referrals typically wait 8-16 weeks depending on urgency.

Step 6: Consider Consultation Approach

Quality dermatologists:

• Perform thorough skin examination

• Explain diagnosis clearly

• Discuss treatment options with benefits/risks

• Provide realistic timeframes

• Offer follow-up care

• Coordinate with GP when appropriate

Read our comprehensive choosing a dermatologist guide for detailed selection criteria.

General Dermatology Costs in London

General dermatology consultation fees range £250-£350 for initial appointments with follow-up consultations typically £150-£250. Treatment costs vary by procedure complexity.

Consultation Fees

Common Procedure Costs

Insurance Coverage

Private medical insurance typically covers:

COVERED:

• Medical dermatology consultations

• Necessary diagnostic procedures (biopsy)

• Treatment for medical conditions (acne, eczema, psoriasis)

• Skin cancer diagnosis and treatment

• Medically necessary minor surgery

NOT COVERED:

• Cosmetic procedures

• Cosmetic mole removal

• Elective skin tag removal

• Aesthetic treatments

Pre-authorisation requirements vary by insurer. Contact your insurance provider before booking to confirm coverage and excess fees.

View our insurance coverage guide for detailed information.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

General dermatology consultations last 20-30 minutes and include medical history, full skin examination, diagnosis, and treatment planning.

Consultation Process

1. Medical History (5-10 minutes)

The dermatologist reviews:

• Current skin concern and symptoms

• Symptom duration and progression

• Previous treatments tried

• Medical conditions and medications

• Family history of skin disease

• Allergies

2. Skin Examination (10-15 minutes)

Comprehensive examination of affected areas using:

• Visual inspection

• Dermoscopy for detailed assessment

• Palpation for texture and depth

• Photography for monitoring

• Full body check if indicated

3. Diagnosis & Treatment Plan (5-10 minutes)

The dermatologist:

• Explains diagnosis

• Discusses treatment options with benefits/risks

• Recommends optimal treatment approach

• Provides prescriptions if needed

• Schedules procedures if required

• Arranges follow-up appointments

4. Questions & Next Steps

Opportunity to ask questions about:

• Diagnosis clarification

• Treatment expectations

• Potential side effects

• Alternative options

• Lifestyle modifications

What to Bring

• Insurance details and policy number

• List of current medications

• Previous medical records if available

• Photos of skin condition changes

• List of questions

Arrive with clean skin without makeup in affected areas.

Read our first appointment guide for comprehensive preparation advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a general dermatologist do?

A general dermatologist diagnoses and treats all skin, hair, and nail conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, skin cancer, infections, and inflammatory disorders. These specialists completed 5 years medical training, 2 years foundation training, and 4 years specialist dermatology training receiving Certificate of Completion of Training and GMC specialist registration enabling prescription of systemic medications, performance of procedures, and management of complex skin conditions.

Do I need a GP referral to see a dermatologist?

Private dermatology consultations do not require GP referral allowing direct booking with any dermatologist for self-pay appointments. Some insurance policies require GP referral for reimbursement. NHS dermatology requires GP referral with typical waiting times of 8-16 weeks depending on urgency and local service capacity.

How much does a dermatology consultation cost in London?

General dermatology consultations in London cost £250-£350 for initial appointments depending on dermatologist experience, clinic location, and consultation complexity. Harley Street consultations typically range £280-£350 while other London areas may charge £250-£280. Follow-up consultations cost £150-£250. Most dermatologists accept major private medical insurance including Bupa, Axa, and Aviva.

What's the difference between a general dermatologist and a specialist dermatologist?

General dermatologists treat all skin conditions across medical dermatology, minor surgery, and common procedures. Specialist dermatologists hold additional fellowship training in subspecialties including Mohs surgery for skin cancer, paediatric dermatology for children, immunodermatology for autoimmune conditions, or cosmetic dermatology for aesthetic procedures. Both hold identical core dermatology qualifications with specialists gaining 1-2 years additional training.

Can general dermatologists treat skin cancer?

General dermatologists diagnose skin cancer through screening, dermoscopy, and biopsy. Treatment capability varies: all dermatologists perform simple excisions of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma; complex cases require referral to dermatological surgeons or Mohs surgeons; melanoma requires multidisciplinary care coordinated with oncologists. Early detection through annual skin checks improves cure rates to 95-99%.

How long until I can get a dermatology appointment in London?

Private dermatology appointment availability ranges from same-day for urgent concerns to 2-3 weeks for routine consultations. City Dermatology Clinic offers same-day and next-day appointments. Harley Street dermatologists typically schedule new patients within 1-2 weeks. Urgent skin concerns including suspected skin cancer receive priority appointments within 48 hours. NHS referrals wait 8-16 weeks depending on urgency.

Do dermatologists accept private medical insurance?

Most general dermatologists accept major private medical insurance including Bupa, Axa, Aviva, and Vitality. Dr. Adam Friedmann accepts the widest range including Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality, and WPA. Some specialists operate primarily self-pay. Contact clinics directly to verify insurance acceptance and obtain pre-authorisation before booking to confirm coverage and identify excess fees.

What conditions can dermatologists prescribe isotretinoin for?

Dermatologists prescribe isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe nodular acne, moderate acne resistant to antibiotics and topical therapy, acne causing scarring, and acne significantly affecting quality of life. Treatment requires 4-6 months with monthly monitoring appointments checking liver function, blood lipids, and pregnancy tests for women. Isotretinoin achieves long-term clearance in 85-90% of patients but requires strict contraception due to severe birth defect risk.

Can general dermatologists treat hair loss?

General dermatologists diagnose and treat common hair loss including androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness), alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and scalp conditions causing hair loss. Treatment includes topical minoxidil, oral finasteride for men, steroid injections for alopecia areata, and specialist referral for complex cases or hair transplantation. Dr. Ophelia Veraitch holds additional trichology expertise for specialized hair disorder management.

What should I expect at my first dermatology appointment?

First dermatology appointments last 20-30 minutes including medical history review, comprehensive skin examination of affected areas using dermoscopy, diagnosis discussion, treatment plan explanation, prescription provision if needed, and follow-up scheduling. Arrive with clean skin without makeup, bring insurance details and medication list, and prepare questions about diagnosis and treatment. Most dermatologists provide same-day prescriptions and schedule procedures within 1-2 weeks.

Next Steps

Browse related specialities:

• Cosmetic dermatologists

• Surgical dermatologists

• Paediatric dermatologists

• Mohs surgeons

Explore specific treatments:

• Acne treatment in London

• Eczema treatment options

• Psoriasis treatment specialists

• Skin cancer screening and treatment

Find dermatologists by location:

• Harley Street dermatologists

Patient resources:

• Compare top dermatologists

• Choosing a dermatologist

• First appointment guide