Differences between an esthetician and dermatologist

July 22, 2022

There is one main thing that estheticians and dermatologists have in common, and that is their knowledge of the skin. But outside of that commonality, there are so many differences. In this blog, we will talk about the major differences between an esthetician and a dermatologist and when you should go see each.

There isn’t really a right or wrong answer, but these differences might help to show you where you should go with your particular concerns.

What is an esthetician?

An esthetician is a skincare professional that provides services and treatments geared towards helping with the appearance of your skin. They typically will recommend you a skincare routine, have you come in for regular skincare treatments, and can provide various inhouse treatments like LED light therapy, microcurrent, etc..

They can help with a variety of skin concerns from typical cases of acne to chronic, anti-aging and more. There isn’t much that pertains to the skin that an esthetician can’t help with.

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a doctor that is trained in all things skin, hair, and nails. They identify specific skin concerns and can treat them. Dermatologists typically prescribe you oral medications , or topical ointments that will help with various skin concerns. They can also help treat skin lesions, acne, skin rashes, hyperpigmentation, skin cancer, dermatitis, and infections. They also provide some in-office treatments including laser therapy, cryotherapy, botox, fillers, microneedling, and chemical peels.

So what's the difference?

The main difference is that a dermatologist can give you an actual diagnosis because they are considered a doctor. A dermatologist can treat issues like skin cancer and can remove moles or cysts, which an esthetician is very unlikely to do.

Estheticians focus on the surface of your skin and how they can help you fix the imperfections on the surface of your skin through things like –advanced skincare treatments and adjustments in your skincare routine, changes in diet and lifestyle, and noninvasive treatments.

Which do I choose?

I’m glad you asked, but there isn’t really an exact answer. It depends greatly on your specific situation. You know your body better than anyone, and if you recognize that you’re experiencing skin problems that are out of the ordinary, you may want to see a dermatologist who can give you a diagnosis.

I will say, however, if you’re looking for a way to treat your skin imperfections, then seeing an esthetician is likely the option for you. Like stated above, estheticians work to improve the appearance of your skin by starting from within – making lifestyle and diet changes, while also adding products that will aid in your process of healing.

Anika Beauty provides all natural, non-toxic skincare that provides visible clinical results. All products are paraben free, vegan, non-GMO, and made with natural & organic ingredients.

And hey – who’s to say you can’t try both? Some estheticians actually work under the supervision of a dermatologist, so they are closely related. While it depends greatly on your specific skin concerns, it all depends on your personal preference.

Teresa Paquin, Licensed NH Aesthetician and Makeup Artist - offers skincare and makeup treatments in Hudson, NH or help with her on-line beauty store.

www.anikabeauty.com or 603-595-0224