When it comes to taking care of your skin, you have options. Aestheticians and dermatologists both offer services to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin. But what’s the difference between an aesthetician and a dermatologist, and how do you know which one is right for you?
It can be confusing to figure out who to see for your specific skin concerns. This article will break down the key differences between these two skincare professionals. We’ll cover their training, expertise, the services they offer, and when it’s best to seek help from each one. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which professional best suits your needs.
Esthetician vs. Dermatologist: Defining the roles
While both estheticians and dermatologists work to improve the health and appearance of your skin, there are key differences in their training, scope of practice, and expertise.
Esthetician: The skincare specialist
Estheticians focus on cosmetic treatments to enhance the appearance of your skin. They’re trained to provide services like facials, waxing, and light chemical peels.
Their training is typically shorter, focusing on noninvasive procedures.
Dermatologist: The medical expert
Dermatologists are medical doctors specializing in skin, hair, and nail disorders. They can diagnose and treat a wide range of medical skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
Dermatologists complete extensive medical training, including medical school and a residency program.
Training and Expertise: A Deep Dive
The training and expertise of an esthetician and a dermatologist are worlds apart.
Esthetician Training
Estheticians complete shorter programs that are regulated by the state. These programs focus on skin care techniques and product knowledge. An esthetician’s training emphasizes cosmetic procedures and consultation with clients. Licensing requirements vary by state.
Dermatologist Training
Dermatologists complete four years of medical school, followed by a residency in dermatology. Their comprehensive medical education includes the study of pathology, pharmacology, and surgery. Board certification is a good way to ensure your dermatologist has a high level of expertise.
Services and Treatments: What They Offer
Aestheticians and dermatologists offer very different services, based on their different levels of training.
What aestheticians offer
- Facials. Aestheticians give facials to deep-cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate your skin.
- Waxing and hair removal. Aestheticians can temporarily remove unwanted hair.
- Microdermabrasion. Aestheticians perform gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells.
- Chemical peels. Aestheticians perform superficial peels to improve skin texture and tone.
- Cosmetic skincare advice. Aestheticians can make recommendations about cosmetic skincare products.
What dermatologists offer
- Diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions. Dermatologists diagnose and treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and skin cancer.
- Medical procedures. Dermatologists perform biopsies, excisions, laser treatments, and can prescribe medications.
- Skin cancer screenings. Dermatologists perform skin cancer screenings to look for suspicious lesions.
- Treatment of hair and scalp problems. Dermatologists can diagnose and treat problems of the hair and scalp.
When to See an Esthetician
Estheticians are your go-to professionals for cosmetic skin care and maintenance, and you don’t need a referral to see one. Think of them as your partners in preventative skin health. You might see an esthetician for:
- Routine skincare: Regular facials help keep your skin healthy and glowing.
- Cosmetic advice: Estheticians can guide you on skincare products and techniques for your skin type.
- Minor skin concerns: They can address mild acne or dryness.
- Skin quality improvement: Many estheticians offer advanced facial treatments like Diamond Glow, Hydrafacial, and Bela MD.
When to see a dermatologist
While aestheticians focus on cosmetic treatments, dermatologists are medical doctors specializing in skin, hair, and nail conditions. You should consider seeing a dermatologist if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent acne: If over-the-counter treatments aren’t working, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications.
- Skin conditions: Dermatologists can diagnose and treat conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.
- Skin cancer: Dermatologists can screen for and treat skin cancer. Early detection is critical.
- Skin reactions or infections: A dermatologist can treat severe skin reactions or infections.
- Hair or scalp problems: Dermatologists can address hair loss, dandruff, and other scalp issues.
Collaborative Care: The Best of Both Worlds
Sometimes, the best approach to skin health is a team effort. Dermatologists and aestheticians can work together to give you the most comprehensive care, combining medical expertise with cosmetic treatments for optimal results.
For example, imagine someone struggling with acne. A dermatologist might prescribe prescription medications to target the underlying causes of the breakouts. Meanwhile, an aesthetician could provide regular facials to help manage inflammation, unclog pores, and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
The key to successful collaboration is open communication. Dermatologists and aestheticians need to coordinate their efforts to ensure that treatments are complementary and that the patient receives the best possible care.
Conclusion
Aestheticians and dermatologists both play a role in healthy, radiant skin, but they have different training, expertise, and focuses. Aestheticians are skincare specialists who focus on cosmetic treatments, while dermatologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat skin conditions.
To choose the professional best suited for your needs, it’s important to understand your skin concerns and goals. If you want to improve the appearance of your skin, an aesthetician may be the right choice. If you have a medical skin condition, a dermatologist is the better option.
No matter what your skin concerns are, seeking professional advice is always a good idea.