Dermatologist or Esthetician: Whom Should You See?

• Posted on: Nov 30 2019
• By: editor

As good as you may take care of your skin, you may face a few dermatologic concerns in your lifetime. When concerns like spots, wrinkles, or roughness occur, it is important to know who to call. With so many med spas providing services these days, it can be confusing trying to figure this out. Here, we discuss how a dermatologist differs from an esthetician and when you need to see a board-certified physician for the best results in your skin.

Dermatologist

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who has completed residency and, often, fellowship programs after graduating from medical school. Their post-graduate programs are conducted in the area of dermatology, teaching them all of the many ways the skin may be affected. Board-certified dermatologists are not only medical experts, but they are also trained to conduct minor surgical procedures as needed to address diseases of the skin.

Dermatologists can:

• Diagnose skin disorders and diseases.
• Write prescriptions.
• Conduct dermatologic surgery.
• Perform various cosmetic procedures.

Esthetician

An esthetician is a skin care professional who has obtained specific training through a trade school. Their education may take from three to six months, adding up to the required hours of training (the range is 250 to 1,500). Estheticians must pass a state board exam before they can be licensed to practice.

Estheticians can:

• Assess skin care needs and develop a treatment program using professional-grade products.
• Perform facials.
• Conduct makeup application.
• Master estheticians, who receive extra training, may conduct laser hair removal.

Your Manhattan Dermatologist

At Laser and Mohs Surgery of New York, patients benefit from our expertise in the area of skin health and aging. Our medical and cosmetic dermatology services are conducted with the individual in mind, understanding that everyone’s skin is unique. Some of the treatments we offer include:

• Skin cancer exams (which should be conducted yearly).
• General dermatology exams for acne, eczema, rashes, and other complaints.
• Treatment for skin cancer, including Mohs micrographic surgery.
• Injectable treatments including Botox and dermal fillers.
• Laser treatments for unwanted veins, hair, and signs of aging.
• Chemical peels.
• Acne treatments.

You don’t need an extreme reason to see a dermatologist, you just have to want to know more about your skin and how to keep it healthy. To schedule a visit with us, call 212.391.8600.

Posted in: General Dermatology