Aesthetician vs. Dermatologist: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to skincare and beauty treatments, many people wonder about the difference between an aesthetician and a dermatologist. While both professionals work on improving skin health and appearance, their roles, qualifications, and treatment approaches are vastly different.
Who is an Aesthetician?
An aesthetician (or esthetician) is a skincare specialist trained in non-medical cosmetic treatments. They focus on improving skin texture, hydration, and overall appearance through facials, chemical peels, and skincare routines.
What Does an Aesthetician Do?
✅ Facials & skin rejuvenation treatments
✅ Chemical peels & microdermabrasion
✅ LED light therapy & hydrafacials
✅ Waxing, threading, and eyebrow shaping
✅ Skincare consultations & product recommendations
🛑 Limitations: Aestheticians cannot diagnose or treat medical skin conditions like acne, rosacea, or eczema. They also cannot prescribe medication or perform invasive procedures.
Who is a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor (MD) specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. They undergo years of medical training and are licensed to provide both medical and cosmetic skin treatments.
What Does a Dermatologist Do?
✅ Diagnoses and treats skin conditions (acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea)
✅ Treats hair and scalp issues like alopecia and dandruff
✅ Prescribes medications like retinoids, antibiotics, or biologics
✅ Performs medical and cosmetic procedures, including:
- Laser therapy
- Botox & fillers
- Skin cancer screenings
- Surgical excisions for moles & cysts
At Skinfudge Clinic, Dr. Burhan Hussein, MD, specializes in both medical and aesthetic dermatology, providing expert care for all skin types.
Key Differences Between Aestheticians and Dermatologists
| Feature | Aesthetician | Dermatologist |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | Diploma/Certification | Medical Doctor (MD) |
| Medical Training | ❌ No medical degree | ✅ Extensive medical training |
| Can Diagnose Skin Conditions? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Can Prescribe Medication? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Can Perform Surgery? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Focus Area | Beauty & skincare | Medical & aesthetic treatments |
When Should You See a Dermatologist Instead of an Aesthetician?
🔹 If you have severe acne, rosacea, eczema, or a chronic skin condition
🔹 If you need prescription-strength skincare
🔹 If you have suspicious moles, skin growths, or skin infections
🔹 If you want advanced treatments like lasers, Botox, or fillers
Conclusion
While aestheticians focus on cosmetic skin treatments, dermatologists provide medical-grade skincare and treatments. For serious skin concerns, consulting a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Burhan Hussein, MD, at Skinfudge Clinic is the safest option.
Citations
- American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). What is a dermatologist? https://www.aad.org
- American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. (n.d.). Aesthetician vs. Dermatologist: What’s the Difference? https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org