Have you been wondering what the difference is between an esthetician and a dermatologist? You’re not alone. This is a very common question I receive so I wanted to write a quick blog post to help identify some of the main differences between the two.
What is the difference between Estheticians and Dermatologists?
An esthetician is skin care professional that is licensed to perform cosmetic treatments such as facials, chemical peels, waxing, and other popular skin care treatments commonly found at spas or med spas. Estheticians will often have some training in anatomy and physiology, but their main focus is on providing cosmetic treatments to help treat and maintain cosmetic skin conditions. In comparison, a dermatologist is a medical professional that is licensed by the medical board and has completed medical school with a specialization in the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases. Dermatologists are also licensed to prescribe medications. This means that a dermatologist is able to diagnose and provide prescription treatment options for conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
Why choose one over the other?
While estheticians are the most common providers of cosmetic treatments such as facials, laser treatments, and microneedling, if you belive you may be dealing with a more advanced skin condition or skin disease, you will most likely want to see a dermatologist as dermatologists will have the training and expertise to properly diagnose and treat skin diseases.
How can I find a qualified Esthetician or Dermatologist near me?
If you are looking for a qualified esthetician near you, the best place to start is by checking with your local spa or medical spa and review customer testimonials and reviews. If you are looking for a qualified dermatologist, we would recommend checking with your primary care physician or contacting the American Academy of Dermatology for a referral.
How much does it cost to see an Esthetician vs a Dermatologist?
The cost to see an esthetician will vary depending on the treatment you are receiving, but typically starts at around $150 for medical grade deep cleaning facials to over $600 for deep chemical peels. The cost to see a dermatologist will vary depending on your insurance coverage and the skin condition being treated. In many cases, the cost to see either a dermatologist or an esthetician may be complimentary for the initial skin consultation.
Skin Care Treatments in Atlanta, GA
If you have any additional questions about the differences between an esthetician or a dermatologist or if you would like to schedule your own complimentary skin care consultation with our team of skin care experts, please contact us at ELLEMES Medical Spa today!
