Take natural science courses, such as biology, even in high school to assist in your training to become a dermatologist.
Major in pre-med as an undergraduate. If pre-med is not offered at your college, major in a natural science like biology or organic chemistry.
Attend medical school with a continuing focus on natural science courses. Boston University School of Medicine, for example, offers related classes including "Structure and Function of the Skin" and "Cutaneous Microbiology."
Complete medical school and your internship to become a physician, after which you can apply for residency at a hospital where you can focus your training in specialties such as pediatric dermatology, surgical dermatology or cosmetic dermatology. Your first year will be a general residency in internal medicine, general surgery, family practice or others. The final three years of residency will be specific to dermatology, with three-fourths of your time spent directly with dermatology patients.
Supplement your training by taking Continuing Medical Education courses, which provide doctors with up-to-date information on advances and treatment options in all medical fields, including dermatology.