Dermatologist Dr Nivana Ramlachan has a simple yet powerful message. Protect, nurture, and understand the skin you’re in.
When Dr Nivana Ramlachan talks about dermatology, her whole face lights up. South Africa’s first female dermatologist to practise Mohs micrographic surgery and winner of Best Dermatologist in the 2025 Best of Pretoria Rekord Readers’ Choice Awards, she’s a woman driven by purpose. “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life,” she says with a warm smile. “That’s truly how I feel. I love my work, my patients, and being able to make a difference every day.”
A life of purpose and precision
With more than two decades in practice, Dr Nivana has built an international reputation for excellence – from performing advanced Mohs surgery to mentoring doctors abroad. She’s trained extensively overseas, travelled widely, and treated patients from every continent, all while maintaining a loyal patient base in Pretoria.
“I’ve always believed that learning never stops. Every time I travel, I gain a new perspective – whether it’s in medicine, culture, or life. But no matter where I go, my heart is always with my patients here at home.”
What sets her apart isn’t just her skill but also her sincerity. “When a patient sits across from me, I want them to feel heard and understood. I take time to explain and guide, so they never leave with unanswered questions. It’s not about talking over their heads – it’s about walking with them.”
The power of Mohs surgery
Dr Nivana’s special interest, Mohs micrographic surgery, is regarded as the most effective technique for treating skin cancer. “It offers the highest possible cure rate – up to 100 per cent margin clearance – while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible,” she explains. “It’s meticulous work that demands precision, patience, and compassion. Every case is deeply personal to me.”
Having performed countless procedures, she has earned her place as one of South Africa’s most respected and leading dermatologists. “To see patients recover and thrive – that’s the greatest reward of all.”
Know your skin, protect your skin
Skin cancer remains the most common cancer among humans, yet awareness is still limited. “People often don’t realise how prevalent it is. Regular skin checks should be as routine as dental or breast exams. Early detection saves lives.”
She emphasises that the skin isn’t just what we see. “It’s our largest organ – constantly working to protect, regulate and communicate with the body,” she explains. “So, it deserves care and attention.”
Understanding your skin type and sun-exposure risks is key. “Lighter skin types are at higher risk, but darker skin can develop aggressive cancers too. Everyone needs to know what’s normal for their skin and see a dermatologist for regular screenings.”
Her golden rule? Responsible sun behaviour. “Enjoy the sunshine, but do it safely – use a broad-spectrum SPF 50, reapply often, wear a hat, and protect exposed areas. The sun gives us joy and vitamin D, but too much of it can cause both premature ageing and cancer.”
The holiday season, she admits, is the time we all let go a little – late nights, indulgence, extra sun. “It’s wonderful,” she laughs, “but your skin doesn’t forget.”
For those wanting to feel their best before the holidays, she recommends low-downtime aesthetic treatments. “Botulinum toxin, skin boosters and Exosomes therapy are safe and predictable, perfect for a natural glow. Save lasers and peels for when the sun’s intensity drops.”
More than medicine
Outside of her two practices in Hazelwood and Equestria, Dr Nivana finds balance in family, and mindfulness. She’s an avid traveller, enjoys being active, and finds grounding through meditation and yoga. “You can only give your best when you’re centred,” she reflects. “And when I walk into my practice, I aim to bring that calm, focused energy into every consultation.”
It’s this combination of expertise, empathy, and authenticity that makes her not only a respected dermatologist but also a trusted voice for healthy living. “Dermatology isn’t just about skin. It’s about helping people feel confident in their own skin – inside and out.”
Details: drnivana.com or @drnivana on Facebook and Insta.
Text: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG. Image: SUPPLIED.
