Dermatologist vs. Esthetician: Who Should You See for What?
Key takeaways
- A dermatologist is a medical doctor specializing in skin, hair, and nails.
- They go through about + years of education.
- They are the experts you’d see for any medical skin issue.
- On the other hand, an esthetician is a licensed skincare professional who focuses on the cosmetic side of skin.
Overview
Dermatologists and estheticians both care for skin, but they have very different training and roles. A dermatologist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) specializing in skin, hair, and nails.
They go through about + years of education (college, medical school, internship, residency). This extensive medical training means they can diagnose and treat all kinds of skin conditions – from acne, eczema and psoriasis to suspicious moles and skin cancers .
Dermatologists can prescribe prescription medications, perform biopsies or surgery, and do medical procedures (like laser therapy or Mohs surgery for cancer).
What’s happening in your skin
They are the experts you’d see for any medical skin issue. For example, a dermatologist can figure out why you have persistent acne or rashes and prescribe antibiotics, creams, or advanced treatments. On the other hand, an esthetician (or aesthetician) is a licensed skincare professional who focuses on the cosmetic side of skin.
Estheticians complete a shorter training program (often –6 months, around – hours of coursework) and must be state-licensed. Their expertise lies in improving the skin’s appearance through non-medical treatments. Estheticians provide facials, facial massages, extractions (pore cleaning), and superficial chemical peels (such as light glycolic or salicylic acid peels).
They may also perform hair removal (waxing, threading, sugaring) and apply makeup or tinting. They cannot diagnose diseases or prescribe medications ; rather, they help maintain and enhance skin health.
What to do
Who to see when: As a rule of thumb, see a dermatologist for any underlying skin condition or medical concern. For example, if you have stubborn acne, itchy eczema, unusual moles, or signs of infection, a dermatologist will provide diagnosis and treatment. They can order tests, prescribe medicine (like topical steroids or antibiotics), and perform medical procedures.
Insurances often cover dermatologist visits for these issues. If your skin is healthy but you want cosmetic maintenance or pampering, an esthetician is appropriate. Estheticians excel at regular skincare services – professional facials, gentle chemical peels, and help with a home routine.
For example, they can do microdermabrasion to smooth texture or apply a hydrating mask to plump skin. They also advise on cleansers, moisturizers, and non-prescription products. However, remember that only dermatologists (or medical personnel) can legally inject Botox or fillers, perform aggressive peels, or do medical-grade lasers .
In many cases, both professionals complement each other. A dermatologist can treat your skin medically and then refer you to an esthetician for follow-up care.
Bottom line
For instance, after clearing acne, the dermatologist might suggest an esthetician for maintenance facials and extractions. When you choose an esthetician, look for licensing and (ideally) advanced certification, especially if they offer treatments like lasers or micro- needling.
Training & credentials: Remember that estheticians train in cosmetology schools and must pass state exams. They may also seek higher certifications (for medical esthetics) if they work alongside doctors.
Dermatologists, by contrast, complete medical school and residency, and many become board-certified. A board-certified dermatologist (MD or DO) has the highest level of skin health expertise.
In summary: For medical needs (acne prescriptions, chronic skin diseases, worrisome moles, severe dryness or rashes) see a dermatologist. For surface-level skincare (deep cleansing, relaxation, routine facials, light peels) an esthetician can help.
Both play important roles – find a qualified professional you trust for your specific concerns. Sometimes the best approach is a team: a dermatologist for diagnoses and prescriptions, plus a skilled esthetician for routine care and skin maintenance.
Note: This content is for education only and is not medical advice. Sunscreen and retinoids can increase sun sensitivity, and pregnancy or medical conditions may change what is safe for you.