Which branch of medical science deals with the study of the skin, its functions, diseases, and treatments?

The branch of medical science that deals with the study of the skin, its structure, functions, diseases, and treatments is called Dermatology. The word “dermatology” comes from the Greek words derma meaning “skin” and logos meaning “study.” It is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the skin, hair, and nails.

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and acts as the first line of defense against external factors such as bacteria, chemicals, and temperature changes. Dermatology studies the structure of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, and how these layers function to protect the body and regulate temperature. Dermatologists are medical experts who diagnose and manage skin-related disorders.

Common diseases treated in dermatology include acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, skin infections, and skin cancers. Dermatologists also treat conditions related to hair loss, nail infections, and pigmentation problems. In addition to disease treatment, dermatology includes cosmetic procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels, and treatments for scars and wrinkles, helping improve skin appearance and health.

There are several sub-branches within dermatology, such as clinical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, pediatric dermatology, and dermatopathology, which focuses on microscopic examination of skin tissues to identify diseases. Modern dermatology combines medical knowledge with advanced technology to diagnose skin conditions accurately and provide effective care.

Dermatology plays a vital role in maintaining overall health since many internal diseases can first appear as skin symptoms. Studying this branch helps understand the connection between the body’s internal systems and its outermost protective layer — the skin.