Estheticians and dermatologists are both skin care professionals, but they have distinct expertise and offer different kinds of services. Here are some key differences between the two:
Estheticians
- Provide services geared toward improving the external appearance of your skin, such as facials and mild chemical peels.
- Are trained skin care professionals who complete 300 to 1,000 hours of specialized training at an esthetics school, school of cosmetology, or in an apprenticeship program along with passing a state exam.
- Can offer guidance with caring for and improving the appearance of your skin, but they dont have medical training, so they typically cant diagnose skin conditions or prescribe medications.
Dermatologists
- Specialize in the health of your skin and are doctors trained to diagnose specific skin conditions and treat them.
- Can prescribe prescription medications or perform in-office procedures, from removing cysts and growths to performing skin cancer biopsies.
- Can diagnose serious acne issues, rash, bumps, or dryness.
When it comes to choosing between an esthetician and a dermatologist, it depends on your specific skin concerns. If youre looking to improve the external appearance of your skin, an esthetician may be a good choice. If you have a skin condition that requires medical attention, a dermatologist is the better option.
When shopping for skin care products, its important to understand the active ingredients and how they can target specific skin concerns. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist before experimenting with active ingredients in your skin care routine can be valuable.
