Should I see an Esthetician or a Dermatologist?

What are Your Skin Care Needs?

One of the most common questions faced when considering professional skin care treatment is not which treatment you would like to have, but whether you should see an esthetician or a dermatologist.

Most people are aware that a dermatologist completes more specialized training than an esthetician, but beyond that definition, the difference between the two professions is blurry.  Determining whether to visit an esthetician or a dermatologist is easier once you know the difference between the titles.

Esthetician

A licensed esthetician, also known as a skin care therapists or “waxers”, are trained in every area he or she works in and often work in salons or spas.  Estheticians do more than offer skin care to their clients and may offer treatments such as:

· Facial scrubs and peels

· Acne treatments

· Hair removal

· Permanent makeup

· Eyelash extensions

· IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments

In addition to these treatments, a licensed esthetician can offer home skin care advice and recommend skin care routines and makeup application tips.

Because a licensed esthetician is trained in each area of treatment, she may have as much knowledge about over-the-counter skin care products as any licensed practitioner, and she has more experience with skin care than a general practitioner. Licensed estheticians can also make prescription recommendations as well as over-the-counter recommendations.

Dermatologist

A dermatologist is a licensed practitioner trained specifically to diagnose skin disease. Unlike estheticians, dermatologists can write prescriptions and are better suited to treat unusual or difficult skin disorders. If you are experiencing pain, a rash, or a recurring medical skin condition, a dermatologist is better suited to help you find proper treatment.

Finding an Esthetician

Finding the right esthetician can be a difficult task.  Think about it: Depending on what type of services you get, these people become extremely intimate with your body and delicate lady parts. You are trusting that this person is not going to burn or cut you or even worse–give you some kind of infection from unsanitary practices. So do your research when looking for an esthetician.  Ask family, friends and co-workers who they recommend. Find someone who:

· Has a state esthetician license

· Has experience working in skin care

· Doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable about your body

· Can provide patient testimonials

· Offers a wide range of aesthetic treatments

Both women and men are finding the glowing benefits of professional skin care. While at-home skin care is an important step in keeping your skin healthy and beautiful, professional skin care by either a esthetician or dermatologist care can improve your skin’s appearance, texture and color in ways that over-the-counter treatments cannot.

Hope this helps

Liz