Finding the Best Chicago Area Dermatologists: Your Complete Guide
When you're searching for Chicago area dermatologists, you're not just looking for someone to treat a rash or remove a mole—you're seeking a trusted healthcare partner who can address all your skin, hair, and nail concerns throughout your life. From managing chronic conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis to performing skin cancer screenings and providing cosmetic treatments that help you look and feel your best, the right dermatologist makes all the difference.
But how do you choose among the hundreds of dermatologists practicing in the Chicago area? What credentials really matter? Should you prioritize location convenience, specialty expertise, or something else entirely?
The Chicago area offers access to some of the nation's finest dermatological care, but not all providers offer the same level of expertise, technology, or patient experience. Understanding what separates exceptional dermatologists from average ones helps you make an informed decision about your skin health.
At Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine in Chicago's South Loop, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Monica Rani and Dr. Stavonnie Patterson provide comprehensive dermatological care for patients throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. As part of the Northwestern Medicine Physician Network and voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" four consecutive years, they represent the gold standard in dermatological expertise, patient care, and treatment outcomes.
Quick Answer: The best Chicago area dermatologists are board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology, offer comprehensive services (medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology), have experience treating all skin types and tones, utilize advanced technology and evidence-based treatments, accept your insurance or offer transparent pricing, and provide convenient locations with accessible scheduling. Advanced Dermatology in South Loop checks all these boxes while offering Northwestern Medicine-affiliated care.
What Makes a Great Dermatologist: Essential Credentials
Before choosing a dermatologist in the Chicago area, understanding the credentials that matter most ensures you receive expert care.
Board Certification: The Non-Negotiable Standard
Board certification by the American Board of Dermatology is the single most important credential to verify. This certification means your dermatologist has completed four years of medical school at an accredited institution, one year of internship in medicine or surgery, three years of specialized dermatology residency training at an approved program, and passed comprehensive written and practical board examinations covering all aspects of dermatology.
Board-certified dermatologists must also maintain their certification through ongoing continuing medical education, staying current with the latest research, treatments, and technologies.
Why board certification matters: Non-board-certified providers may lack comprehensive training in diagnosing and treating complex skin conditions. They may not be qualified to perform certain procedures safely. They might miss subtle signs of skin cancer or other serious conditions. Insurance companies often require board certification for coverage.
Dr. Monica Rani and Dr. Stavonnie Patterson are both board-certified dermatologists with extensive training and over 30 years of combined experience. Their credentials ensure you're receiving care from true experts in the field.
Specialized Training and Expertise
Beyond basic board certification, look for dermatologists with specialized training relevant to your needs.
Medical dermatology expertise for conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer detection and treatment, infectious skin diseases, hair loss disorders, and autoimmune skin conditions.
Cosmetic dermatology training in injectables (Botox, fillers), laser treatments and resurfacing, chemical peels and microneedling, and medical-grade skincare.
Surgical skills for biopsies, skin cancer removal, mole and lesion removal, cyst and lipoma excision, and scar revision procedures.
The best Chicago area dermatologists offer comprehensive care across all these areas, eliminating the need to see multiple specialists for different concerns.
Academic Affiliations and Continuing Education
Dermatologists affiliated with academic medical centers or teaching hospitals typically maintain higher standards and stay at the forefront of medical advances.
Advanced Dermatology's affiliation with the Northwestern Medicine Physician Network provides several advantages: access to cutting-edge research and emerging treatments, collaboration with specialists across medical disciplines, the highest standards of patient safety and care, and connection to one of America's top academic medical centers.
Dr. Rani's background as a full-time clinical instructor at Northwestern University, where she developed global health programs and integrated care clinics, reflects her commitment to excellence and innovation in dermatology.
Recognition and Awards
While awards shouldn't be the only factor, consistent recognition from peers and patients indicates quality care. Advanced Dermatology has been voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" four years running—a testament to patient satisfaction, treatment outcomes, and overall excellence in care.
Comprehensive Services: Medical, Cosmetic, and Surgical Dermatology
The best Chicago area dermatologists offer a full spectrum of services, addressing all aspects of skin health under one roof.
Medical Dermatology Services
These essential services diagnose and treat medical skin, hair, and nail conditions.
Skin Cancer Screening and Treatment: Comprehensive full-body examinations to detect skin cancer early. Dermoscopy for detailed evaluation of suspicious lesions. On-site biopsies and pathology coordination. Surgical removal of skin cancers. Monitoring for patients at high risk.
Early detection saves lives—the five-year survival rate for melanoma caught early is 99%. Regular screenings with experienced Chicago area dermatologists are essential, especially for high-risk individuals.
Acne Treatment: From mild comedonal acne to severe cystic acne, professional treatment prevents scarring and improves quality of life. Chicago dermatologists offer prescription topical and oral medications, hormonal therapies for adult women, laser treatments like the Aerolase laser, medical-grade chemical peels, and comprehensive acne scar treatment if scarring has occurred.
Chronic Skin Conditions: Eczema and atopic dermatitis management. Psoriasis treatment including biologics. Rosacea control. Seborrheic dermatitis. Contact dermatitis and allergic reactions.
Hair and Scalp Disorders: Hair loss evaluation and treatment (alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium). Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Hair transplant evaluation and referral.
Infectious Skin Diseases: Fungal infections (ringworm, athlete's foot, nail fungus). Viral infections (warts, molluscum, herpes). Bacterial infections (cellulitis, impetigo, folliculitis).
Cosmetic Dermatology Services
Looking your best improves confidence and quality of life. Chicago area dermatologists offer medical-grade cosmetic treatments far superior to spa alternatives.
Injectable Treatments: Botox for wrinkles, fine lines, and preventive aging. Dermal fillers for volume loss, facial contouring, and wrinkle correction. Customized treatment plans for natural-looking results.
Laser and Light Treatments: Laser and photofacials for sun damage and redness. Laser hair removal. Skin tightening and rejuvenation.
Chemical Peels and Microneedling: Medical-grade chemical peels for texture, tone, and acne scarring. Microneedling with PRP and Radiofrequency microneedling for collagen stimulation. Customized protocols based on skin type and concerns.
Medical-Grade Skincare: The ADAM skincare line was formulated by board-certified dermatologists using clinically proven ingredients. These pharmaceutical-grade products deliver results that drugstore alternatives cannot match, with products for acne, anti-aging, brightening, sun protection, and every skin type.
Surgical Dermatology Services
In-office surgical procedures performed by skilled dermatologists ensure optimal outcomes with minimal scarring.
Mole and Skin Tag Removal: Cosmetic and medical removal of benign lesions. Minimal scarring techniques. Same-day procedures.
Cyst and Lipoma Excision: Complete removal of bothersome growths. Local anesthesia for patient comfort. Expert closure techniques.
Skin Biopsies: Diagnostic biopsies for suspicious lesions. Coordination with dermatopathology labs. Results typically within 7-14 days.
Pediatric Dermatology
Children aren't just small adults—their skin conditions require specialized expertise. The best Chicago area dermatologists treat patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.
Common pediatric concerns: Eczema and atopic dermatitis. Acne in teenagers. Warts and molluscum. Birthmarks and moles. Rashes and skin infections.
At Advanced Dermatology, the team understands that skin conditions in children can be alarming for parents. They provide compassionate, expert care that puts both children and parents at ease.
Expertise in All Skin Types and Tones
Chicago's diverse population requires dermatologists who understand how skin conditions present and respond to treatment across all ethnicities.
The Importance of Skin of Color Expertise
Skin conditions often look different in darker skin tones, and certain treatments carry higher risks of complications like hyperpigmentation when not performed correctly.
Dr. Stavonnie Patterson's specialized training makes her uniquely qualified to treat Chicago's diverse population. She serves as Patient Education Committee Co-chair for the Skin of Color Society. She spent years as faculty at Northwestern University's Center for Ethnic Skin and Hair. Her research and clinical work focus on health disparities and effective care for all skin types.
This expertise ensures patients of all ethnic backgrounds receive accurate diagnoses, safe treatments without risk of discoloration, and culturally competent care that respects individual concerns and beauty ideals.
Treatments Safe for All Skin Tones
Technology and treatment selection matter tremendously for melanin-rich skin. The Aerolase laser used at Advanced Dermatology is FDA-cleared for all skin tones, providing safe acne and rosacea treatment without triggering hyperpigmentation. Chemical peel protocols are carefully adjusted based on skin type. The ADAM Radiance Pads were specifically formulated for pigment concerns in darker skin tones.
Location and Accessibility: Convenience Matters
Even the best dermatologist won't help if you can't easily get to appointments. Practical considerations significantly impact your ability to maintain consistent care.
South Loop Chicago: Central and Accessible
Advanced Dermatology's South Loop location offers unparalleled convenience for Chicago-area residents.
Easy public transit access: Red Line (Roosevelt stop) just blocks away. Orange and Green Lines nearby. Multiple bus routes serve the area.
Convenient for drivers: Direct access from I-90/94 (Dan Ryan Expressway). Easy reach from I-55. Parking options available in the area.
Central location benefits: Accessible from downtown Chicago workplaces. Convenient for residents of South Loop, Loop, West Loop, River North, and Near South Side. Easy access from suburbs via expressways or Metra.
The central location means you can schedule appointments during lunch breaks, before work, or after work without lengthy commutes.
Flexible Scheduling for Busy Lives
Chicago-area residents juggle demanding careers, family responsibilities, and active social lives. The best dermatologists accommodate your schedule.
Look for practices offering: Early morning appointments before work. Evening appointments after standard business hours. Same-week availability for urgent concerns. Online scheduling for 24/7 convenience. Efficient appointment times that respect your schedule.
Advanced Dermatology welcomes new patients and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate busy Chicago lifestyles.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
Convenience also means not having to see multiple specialists at different locations. Advanced Dermatology provides complete dermatological services including medical dermatology with board-certified physicians, cosmetic treatments and injectables, surgical procedures and biopsies, medical esthetician services for advanced skincare treatments, and medical-grade skincare products available on-site.
This integrated approach streamlines your care and ensures all providers understand your complete skin health picture.
The Advanced Dermatology Team: Exceptional Expertise
Understanding who will care for your skin helps you feel confident in your choice of Chicago area dermatologists.
Dr. Monica Rani: Dual Board-Certified Expertise
Her unique qualifications: Completed residency training in both internal medicine and dermatology at the University of Minnesota, where she served as chief resident. Joined Northwestern University as full-time faculty, teaching residents and medical students. Developed innovative global health programs in dermatology. Created integrated dermatology-infectious disease clinics for comprehensive patient care. Frequent speaker at national and international professional meetings.
Dr. Rani's dual certification means she brings both specialized dermatological expertise and comprehensive medical knowledge to every patient interaction. She understands how systemic health affects skin conditions and can coordinate care for patients with complex medical needs.
Patient care philosophy: Dr. Rani believes every patient should thoroughly understand their diagnosis, feel confident about their treatment plan, and be empowered to manage their condition. She strongly emphasizes patient education and collaborative decision-making.
Dr. Stavonnie Patterson: Advanced Medical Expertise
Dr. Patterson brings sophisticated clinical skills and a warm, evidence-based approach to both medical dermatology.
Her impressive background: Completed internal medicine residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. Trained in dermatology at Duke University Hospital, where she served as chief resident. Joined Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine as assistant professor of dermatology. Serves as Patient Education Committee Co-chair for the Skin of Color Society. Extensive clinical work at Northwestern's Center for Ethnic Skin and Hair.
Areas of expertise: Medical dermatology and complex skin diseases. Hair disorders and hair loss. Skin of color expertise. Health disparities in dermatology. Effective patient-doctor communication.
Patients consistently praise Dr. Patterson's clarity, warmth, and results-driven approach to both medical conditions and cosmetic concerns.
Sydney: Dermatology Diplomate Fellow
Sydney is among a select group of Physician Assistants recognized as Diplomate Fellows by the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants—the highest level of professional recognition in the field.
Her approach blends rigorous clinical insight with deep commitment to patient education. She's known for building strong, trust-based relationships and delivering care that is both effective and empowering.
Jasmine: Licensed Aesthetician and Advanced Skin Treatment Specialist
Jasmine specializes in medical-grade skin treatments including chemical peels, microneedling, HydraFacials, and laser therapies. With deep understanding of skin behavior across tones and textures, she creates customized protocols for visible, real-world results. She's a strategic partner in your long-term skin health journey, working closely with dermatologists to ensure optimal outcomes.
What to Expect: Your First Visit with Chicago Area Dermatologists
Understanding the process helps you feel prepared and confident about your appointment.
Scheduling Your Appointment
When you call or book online, you'll provide basic information including your concern or reason for visit, insurance information (if applicable), preferred appointment times, and contact information for confirmation.
New patients are welcomed at Advanced Dermatology, and appointments are typically available within days to weeks depending on urgency and schedule flexibility.
Preparing for Your Visit
Before your appointment: Write down all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take. List any allergies or previous adverse reactions to medications. Note specific concerns or symptoms you want addressed. Bring your insurance card and photo ID. Arrive makeup-free if possible (for skin examinations).
What to bring: List of current skincare products you use. Photos of any rashes or conditions that come and go. Questions you want to ask your dermatologist.
During Your Appointment
Initial consultation typically includes:
Comprehensive medical history review including previous skin conditions, treatments, medications, allergies, family history of skin cancer or other conditions, and lifestyle factors affecting your skin.
Thorough skin examination relevant to your concerns. For skin cancer screenings or annual check-ups, this includes full-body examination. Your dermatologist uses specialized lighting and magnification tools as needed.
Discussion of diagnosis and treatment options. Your dermatologist explains your condition in clear language, answers all your questions, and collaborates with you on the treatment plan that best fits your lifestyle and goals.
Treatment or procedures if appropriate. Many conditions can be addressed during your initial visit, whether starting prescription medications, performing a biopsy, or beginning treatments.
Follow-Up Care
Depending on your condition, follow-up appointments ensure optimal treatment outcomes. Your dermatologist monitors treatment effectiveness, adjusts protocols as needed, addresses any concerns or side effects, and provides ongoing education about your skin health.
The patient portal allows you to communicate with your care team, view test results, request prescription refills, and manage appointments online.
Insurance and Payment: Making Dermatology Accessible
Verify in network status with your insurance". Understand your copay and deductible. Ask about coverage for specific treatments if cost is a concern.
Insurance Accepted
Advanced Dermatology accepts most major insurance plans. Medical dermatology visits for conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, infections, moles, and skin cancer are typically covered by health insurance.
Before your appointment: Verify Advanced Dermatology is in-network with your specific plan. Understand your copay, deductible, and any prior authorization requirements. Bring your insurance card and photo ID.
What's Typically Covered
Insurance usually covers: Office visits for medical skin conditions. Skin cancer screenings for high-risk patients. Medically necessary procedures (biopsies, surgical removals). Prescription medications (with varying copays).
What's typically not covered: Purely cosmetic procedures (Botox, fillers, chemical peels cosmetic mole removal). Medical-grade skincare products and laser treatments.
Your dermatologist's office can often help determine coverage for specific procedures before treatment.
Transparent Pricing
For services not covered by insurance or for patients without insurance, Advanced Dermatology provides transparent pricing. Common cosmetic procedures have clear, upfront costs. Payment plans or financing options are available for larger treatments. Medical-grade skincare products are available for purchase in the office or online.
When to See a Dermatologist: Common Reasons Chicago Residents Seek Care
Understanding when to schedule an appointment helps you address concerns before they become serious.
Urgent Concerns Requiring Prompt Attention
See a dermatologist soon if you notice a new or changing mole (especially after age 30), a sore that doesn't heal within 4 weeks, sudden or severe rash or hives, signs of skin infection (spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever), severe acne or sudden acne worsening, hair loss in patches or rapid thinning, or painful skin lesions or nodules.
Annual Preventive Care
Even without specific concerns, annual skin cancer screenings are recommended for high-risk individuals including those with fair skin that burns easily, history of sunburns or tanning bed use, 50+ moles or atypical moles, personal or family history of skin cancer, immunosuppression or organ transplant, or outdoor occupation or significant sun exposure.
Chronic Condition Management
Many skin conditions require ongoing professional management including persistent acne, eczema or psoriasis, rosacea, chronic hives or dermatitis, vitiligo or other pigmentation disorders, and ongoing hair loss.
Regular appointments with your Chicago area dermatologist ensure your condition stays controlled and prevents flare-ups.
Cosmetic Consultations
Want to look your best? Consult with dermatologists for aging concerns (wrinkles, volume loss, skin laxity), sun damage and pigmentation, enlarged pores or uneven texture, unwanted hair, or comprehensive anti-aging skincare regimens.
Board-certified dermatologists provide medical expertise that ensures safe, effective cosmetic treatments with natural-looking results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the best dermatologists in the Chicago area?
Start by verifying board certification through the American Board of Dermatology website. Look for dermatologists with comprehensive services (medical, cosmetic, surgical), positive patient reviews and reputation, convenient location and accessibility, experience with your specific concern or skin type, and affiliation with respected healthcare institutions. Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine checks all these boxes: board-certified dermatologists Dr. Rani and Dr. Patterson, part of Northwestern Medicine Physician Network, voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" four consecutive years, convenient South Loop location with CTA and interstate access, comprehensive services under one roof, and expertise in all skin types and tones. Read patient reviews, check credentials, and schedule a consultation to find the right fit for your needs.
What should I look for when choosing a Chicago area dermatologist?
Prioritize board certification by the American Board of Dermatology—this is non-negotiable for quality care. Look for comprehensive services so you don't need multiple specialists, experience with your skin type and tone (especially important for people with darker skin), convenient location and flexible scheduling, affiliation with reputable healthcare networks like Northwestern Medicine, positive patient reviews and testimonials, transparent communication about treatment options and costs, and welcoming, professional office environment. At your consultation, pay attention to whether the dermatologist listens to your concerns, explains things clearly in language you understand, involves you in treatment decisions, and makes you feel comfortable. Trust your instincts—you should feel confident in your dermatologist's expertise and care.
Do Chicago dermatologists accept insurance?
Most board-certified dermatologists in the Chicago area accept major insurance plans for medically necessary dermatology services. Advanced Dermatology accepts most major insurance plans including many PPO, HMO, and Medicare plans. Medical dermatology visits (acne, eczema, rashes, skin cancer screenings, etc.) are typically covered, though you'll pay your standard copay and deductible. Cosmetic procedures like Botox, fillers, and cosmetic laser treatments are not covered by insurance. Before your appointment, call to verify in network status with your specific insurance plan, understand your copay and deductible requirements, and ask about coverage for specific procedures if cost is a concern.
How quickly can I get an appointment with Chicago area dermatologists?
Appointment availability varies by practice and urgency of your concern. At Advanced Dermatology, new patients are welcomed and appointments are typically available within days to weeks. For urgent concerns like suspicious moles, severe rashes, or signs of infection, same-week appointments may be available. For routine annual screenings or cosmetic consultations, you might book 2-4 weeks out depending on schedule preferences. The practice offers flexible scheduling including evening appointments to accommodate busy Chicago work schedules. You can book online 24/7 or call during business hours to schedule. If you have an urgent dermatological concern, mention this when booking—the office will do their best to accommodate you quickly.
What's the difference between a dermatologist and a medical spa?
This is crucial to understand: dermatologists are medical doctors with specialized training in diagnosing and treating skin diseases, performing surgical procedures, prescribing medications, and providing medical-grade cosmetic treatments. Medical spas may be supervised by doctors but often have non-physician providers performing treatments, cannot diagnose or treat medical skin conditions, cannot prescribe most medications, and may use less advanced equipment. For skin cancer screenings, acne treatment, rashes, or any medical concern, you need a board-certified dermatologist. For cosmetic treatments, dermatologists offer superior safety and results because they understand skin biology deeply and can address complications if they arise. Advanced Dermatology offers both medical dermatology for health concerns and medical-grade cosmetic treatments, all supervised by board-certified dermatologists. This ensures the highest level of expertise, safety, and results.
Your Partner in Lifelong Skin Health
Choosing the right dermatologist is one of the most important healthcare decisions you'll make. Your skin is your body's largest organ, and it deserves expert care from qualified professionals who understand its complexity.
The best Chicago area dermatologists don't just treat individual concerns—they become trusted partners in your lifelong skin health journey, providing preventive care to catch problems early, expert treatment when concerns arise, and comprehensive services that address all your needs under one roof.
At Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine in Chicago's South Loop, you'll find everything you're looking for in a dermatology practice: board-certified expertise, compassionate care, convenient accessibility, and proven results.
Why thousands of Chicago-area residents trust Advanced Dermatology:
✓ Board-certified dermatologists - Dr. Rani and Dr. Patterson bring over 30 years of combined expertise ✓ Part of Northwestern Medicine Physician Network - world-class medical standards ✓ Voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" 4 years running - proven patient satisfaction ✓ Comprehensive services - medical, cosmetic, surgical, and pediatric dermatology ✓ All skin types and tones - Dr. Patterson's skin of color expertise serves Chicago's diverse population ✓ Convenient South Loop location - easy CTA and interstate access ✓ Flexible scheduling - evening appointments available ✓ Advanced technology - FDA-cleared lasers, medical-grade treatments ✓ Medical-grade skincare - ADAM line formulated by dermatologists ✓ Welcoming environment - professional, compassionate care team ✓ Accept most major insurance plans - accessible, quality care
Comprehensive services include:
Medical Dermatology: Skin cancer screenings and treatment, acne treatment, eczema and psoriasis management, rosacea treatment, hair loss evaluation, infection treatment, and chronic skin condition management.
Cosmetic Dermatology: Botox and dermal fillers, laser treatments and resurfacing, chemical peels and microneedling, medical-grade skincare, HydraFacials, and comprehensive anti-aging programs.
Surgical Dermatology: Mole and lesion removal, skin cancer excision, cyst and lipoma removal, biopsies, and scar revision.
Ready to experience Chicago's best dermatology care?
📞 Call (847) 802-9667 to schedule your appointment with award-winning Chicago area dermatologists
💻 Book online 24/7 - convenient scheduling at your fingertips
📍 Visit our South Loop location - easily accessible by CTA or car, convenient parking available
New patients are always welcome. Whether you need a skin cancer screening, treatment for a chronic condition, acne care, or cosmetic consultation, the expert team at Advanced Dermatology provides the comprehensive, compassionate care you deserve.
Don't settle for less than expert care. Trust your skin to Chicago area dermatologists who combine board-certified expertise, advanced technology, and genuine commitment to your health and wellbeing.
Schedule your consultation today and discover why patients throughout the Chicago metropolitan area choose Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine for all their dermatological needs. Your skin deserves the best—and the best is right here in Chicago's South Loop.
