Dermatologist Salary in Nigeria is a topic that is often discussed, especially by those aspiring to become a dermatologist.
Dermatology, a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating skin, hair, and nail conditions, plays a vital role in the healthcare industry. With the rising population and an increased awareness of skincare and health issues in Nigeria, the dermatology field has undergone significant improvements.
With this development, many aspiring doctors and future dermatologists are now contemplating the financial prospects of this career.
In this post, we analyze the earnings of dermatologists in Nigeria in 2025, what drives their pay, and how they stack up against other specialists in medicine.
Also see: Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) in Nigeria (+PDF Download)
Overview of the Dermatology Profession in Nigeria
A dermatologist is a specialist medical practitioner who attends to hair, skin, and nails. These include the treatment of acne and eczema, as well as the severer forms of skin diseases like skin cancers and autoimmune skin diseases.
In most cases, they can also atender to beautification through cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels, laser treatments, and anti-aging skin care.
Education and training is fundamental in the field of dermatology. In Nigeria, to become a dermatologist, a medical school graduate must undergo::
- An undergraduate medical degree (typically 6 years).
- A mandatory one-year housemanship (internship).
- The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program (1 year).
- A postgraduate residency program in dermatology, which may take 4–6 years.
This rigorous training reflects the level of expertise dermatologists possess, making them valuable professionals in the healthcare sector, and contributes to their relatively high earning potential.
How Much Does a Dermatologist Earn in Nigeria in 2025?
A dermatologist’s salary in Nigeria will be dependent on many factors. As of 2025, a practicing dermatologist in Nigeria earns an average monthly salary of around ₦400,000 to ₦1,500,000. Let’s take a deep dive:
Government Hospitals
State or federal government hospital dermatologists are paid between ₦400,000 to ₦800,000 on a monthly basis which is contingent upon their experience, level, and location.
In the beginning, an entry-level specialist may get lower pay scales of around ₦400,000, but this gets better with experience.
Private Hospitals & Clinics
A dermatologist working in a private healthcare facility is even paid more competitively than individuals working in private hospitals on average ₦600,000 – 1,000,000. Although there are smaller hospitals that may pay less than ₦500,000 for an entry level dermatologist.
In urban private clinics located in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, these facilities attract greater patients which in turn translates to paying higher wages.
Cosmetic Dermatology Clinics
When considering cosmetic dermatologists operating in private upscale clinics, their monthly earnings range from ₦1,200,000 to above 2 million, or even more at times, given the increase in patients.
Additional income arising from cosmetic procedures such as Botox, fillers, and laser therapies make these dermatologists significantly wealthier.
Freelance Consultations
Dermatologists who offer freelance consultations and telemedicine services can earn additional income. Consultation fees in Nigeria range between ₦15,000 and ₦50,000 per session, depending on the dermatologist’s reputation and the complexity of the case.
Factors Influencing a Dermatologist’s Salary in Nigeria
1. Experience and Specialization
Specialized dermatologists such as pediatric dermatologists or cosmetic dermatologists are usually paid more than general dermatologists. Their expertise is often needed in medical and cosmetic fields, making them very valuable.
2. Location
Metropolitan areas like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt tend to have a higher demand and better payment for dermatologists than smaller towns and rural areas, making salaries vary across geography.
3. Type of Employer
While government hospitals normally have a fixed payment system, private hospitals, cosmetic clinics, and self-owned practices tend to have flexible payment options which can give rise to different salary levels.
4. Additional Certifications
Patients are willing to pay more towards their cosmetic treatments, which is why dermatologists with aesthetic and cosmetic dermatology certifications tend to earn more.
5. Reputation
Highly reputable dermatologists can charge more for their services as they attract more clients due to publishing research, attending global conferences, or having a strong social media presence.
Comparing Dermatologists with Other Medical Specialties in Nigeria
Similar to other fields of medicine, dermatologists are among the highest earners in Nigeria. Their practice stands out, as it can be approached both medically and as a form of beauty therapy.
Let’s see how dermatology fares against other medical specializations:
- General practitioners (GPs) – On average, GPs earn around ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 each month.
- Surgeons – Surgeons earn between ₦700,000 and ₦2,000,000 in a month. This varies greatly with the type of surgery, (i.e., neurosurgery vs orthopedic surgery).
- Pediatricians – A pediatrician earns somewhere between ₦350,000 to ₦750,000 in a month.
- Obstetricians and Gynecologists – On average earn between ¥400.000 and ¥1.300.00 each month.
Dermatologists practicing privately or in cosmetic clinics often earn more than surgeons, putting them amongst the highest earners in the field.
Is Dermatology a Good Career Choice in Nigeria?
The dermatology field is a rewarding career path for medical practitioners in Nigeria for several reasons:
- Growing Demand: With a rising awareness of skin health and cosmetic treatments, dermatologists enjoy increasing demand.
- Versatility in Practice: Dermatologists can work in clinics, hospitals, or establish private practices catering to both clinical and aesthetic needs.
- Work-Life Balance: Compared to other specialties like surgery, dermatology often offers a better work-life balance, as procedures are usually less time-intensive.
- Lucrative Opportunities: Dermatology offers significant income potential, especially in private clinics and aesthetics-focused practices.
Final Thoughts on Dermatologist Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Dermatology is a rewarding and lucrative specialty for Nigerians. Earnings are influenced by the region and subspecialty, but skin care and dermatological practice in particular offers unmatched possibilities.
With rising awareness about skin care and aesthetic beautification, aspiring dermatologists now have an exceptional opportunity to further their education.
The career can take many paths after attaining the necessary qualifications, including working for a hospital, a private clinic, or starting a cosmetic dermatology clinic. With strong commitment, the journey towards success can be achieved.
For anyone passionate about medicine and skincare, dermatology offers not just financial rewards but also professional fulfillment.
The year 2025 promises continued growth in this field, making it an exciting time to start or advance your career as a dermatologist in Nigeria.
Disclaimer:
The salary information presented in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, career, or legal advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data, the figures provided are based on a combination of public data, industry reports, and survey responses, which may vary depending on location, role, organization, and individual circumstances.
Readers should note that salaries are subject to change over time due to factors such as economic conditions, organizational policies, and market demand. Additionally, this article does not account for all variables, including additional benefits, allowances, or bonuses, that may influence an employee’s total compensation package.