5 Steps To Choose the Right Dermatologist in London: What Really Matters?

London offers a wide range of dermatology clinics and aesthetic clinics, driven by steadily growing demand over recent years. Today, this growth attracts both patients and healthcare professionals from around the world. However, with so many options available, an important question arises: how can you find a dermatologist who combines medical rigour and experience with a responsible, patient-centered approach to skin health?

While many online guides focus primarily on official registers and credentials, choosing the right skin specialist requires a broader and more nuanced evaluation. Dermatology is a far more complex specialty than it may initially appear, and meaningful expertise cannot be assessed by simply ticking boxes. 

Look beyond academic qualifications

Many London-based dermatologists have trained in different healthcare systems, making it essential to understand not only where they qualified, but also the depth and quality of their clinical experience. True expertise extends beyond formal degrees and includes the standard of dermatological training, ongoing education, and years of hands-on clinical practice. 

A clear example is Dr Iñigo De Felipe, a consultant dermatologist in Spain, who furthered his studies at both Harvard University and the Karolinska Institute. With over 30 years of clinical experience, he practises at his clinics in Spain and at De Felipe Dermatology Clinic London. His work and clinical approach have positioned him among the best dermatologists in London. In addition to his clinical practice, he teaches at university level and at his own academy, and regularly lectures at international conferences in dermatology and regenerative medicine.

A thorough diagnostic consultation is essential

High-quality dermatological care always begins with a comprehensive consultation. Reputable clinics prioritise gaining a detailed understanding of the patient’s skin history, lifestyle factors and individual concerns before proposing any treatment.

This approach is particularly important for chronic conditions such as acne, rosacea or pigmentation disorders, where long-term skin stability is far more valuable than short-term cosmetic results. An accurate diagnosis lays the foundation for safe, effective and sustainable treatment outcomes. 

Choose a holistic and personalised approach to treatment

Clinics that focus on dermatology as a medical specialty, rather than offering isolated aesthetic treatment, tend to adopt a more comprehensive and responsible approach. This involves carrying out an in-depth diagnostic assessment in order to design a personalised treatment plan. 

Such plans should address both medical skin conditions and aesthetic concerns, combining different therapies where appropriate and always prioritising safety and efficacy. At De Felipe Dermatology Clinic, conditions such as acne, rosacea, hair loss and other dermatological pathologies are treated using a tailored combination of oral medication, topical therapies, laser treatments and other cutting-edge technologies.

Prioritise the appropriate use of medically approved technology

In modern dermatology, technology plays a valuable supporting role, but it should never replace sound clinical judgement. Medically approved devices allow dermatologists to work with greater precision, targeting specific layers and structures of the skin while respecting its natural physiology.

When used appropriately, advanced laser systems, energy-based devices and diagnostic technologies can significantly  improve treatment accuracy and safety, particularly in complex or chronic cases. The key factor is not the number of devices a clinic owns, but how carefully they are selected and integrated into a personalised treatment plan based on medical criteria rather than trends.

Pay attention to reviews and recommendations

Personal recommendations and online reviews will offer valuable insight into a dermatologist’s clinical practice and patient care. 

When assessing reviews, consider the following factors:  

• Look for good overall ratings on Google or other platforms. A strong overall rating (ideally above four stars) on platforms like Google, supported by a substantial  number of reviews, is a good indicator of patient satisfaction.
• Detailed reviews tend to be the most realistic. Longer, more specific reviews tend to be most informative. Patients who feel genuinely well cared for, or those who have had a negative experience, are more likely to describe their experience in detail, offering useful insight into treatments, staff and overall care. 
• How negative reviews are handled: A structured, professional and constructive response indicates accountability, transparency and a genuine commitment to continuous improvement. 

As demand for dermatological and aesthetic treatments continues to rise, patients are becoming increasingly informed and selective.

Choosing a dermatologist in London is not simply about finding someone who offers a particular procedure. It is about identifying a medical professional with genuine dermatological expertise, sound clinical judgement, a patient-centred philosophy, and who is committed to long-term skin health rather than quick fixes or isolated solutions.

This shift is fostering a more responsible model of dermatology, one that combines clinical expertise with personalised care and the appropriate use of advanced medical technologies. Clinics such as De Felipe Dermatology Clinic in London exemplify this evolution.