Esthetician vs Dermatologist: Choosing a Career Path

Estheticians and dermatologists are both dedicated to skin care. Depending on the state, their roles may overlap. They might even work side by side in certain establishments like medical spas. 

However, there are some significant differences to consider. As an esthetician, you’ll want to know when to refer a client to a dermatologist.

Today, we’re comparing dermatologists vs estheticians to clear up any misconceptions and help you guide your clients in the right direction. 

The role of a dermatologist

A board-certified dermatologist is a medical doctor or doctor of osteopathic medicine who specializes in skin, nail, and hair health. Most people should visit their dermatologist every year or two to prevent skin cancer.

But for other skin-related concerns, keep the following practices in mind when helping your client choose between an esthetician vs a dermatologist. 

Diagnosing skin conditions 

Dermatologists are qualified to diagnose and treat all types of skin issues. They should be the first line of defense if your client is facing a skin-related medical condition. These doctors can help rule out allergic reactions, order biopsies for potential skin cancer, and rule out other diagnosable disorders. 

Prescribing medicine  

Prescription medications, such as certain retinols and topical acne treatments, must come from a doctor. This is another situation that requires a dermatologist. If your client needs medical solutions for hair loss, acne, or other conditions, they’ll need to visit a dermatologist to get the ball rolling.

Using invasive procedures

Dermatologists also perform invasive procedures, like removing cancerous and pre-cancerous growths and undesirable warts and moles. Some surgical dermatologists even offer services you might expect from plastic surgeons, such as facelifts. 

The role of an esthetician

Estheticians are skin care specialists who focus on the surface of the skin. They can improve the appearance of their client’s skin, create a comprehensive skincare routine, and treat customers with a wide range of non-invasive cosmetic procedures. 

Hair removal services

When clients need to get rid of body hair, an esthetician is the person to see! Whether they need a bikini wax or laser hair removal, booking an appointment with these specialists is the way to do it.

Estheticians can also provide microneedling services and similar procedures to perfect the hair clients do want to keep. 

Performing chemical peel treatments

Chemical peels are one service where estheticians and dermatologists overlap. Generally, estheticians offer light and medium chemical peels, while dermatologists offer more invasive deep peels that require sedation. 

Of course, estheticians also perform countless cosmetic treatments, including body scrubs, microdermabrasion, deep cleansing facials, and much more. 

Help clients with at-home skin maintenance

While dermatologists can help ensure your client’s skin is healthy, as an esthetician, you specialize in the appearance of our outermost layer. You can recommend the right products for different skin types and customize a comprehensive care routine to address your client’s many skin care needs and keep them looking their best.

After all, most people love indulging in a facial or luxury treatment, but a daily skincare routine will make a huge difference in the long run. Fortunately, estheticians can offer both! 

Esthetician vs dermatologist training 

When it comes to the training requirements for estheticians vs dermatologists, there’s quite a difference. While dermatologists earn a higher average salary, they often have much higher educational costs. Here’s a look at the journey each professional must complete.

Dermatologists require 12 years of training

Dermatologists are doctors, meaning that they must earn an undergraduate degree, pass the MCAT, endure four years of medical school, and complete between one and three years of internships and residencies. Altogether, most board-certified dermatologists will undergo 12 years of training before they begin practicing on their own. 

Estheticians require no medical school

Licensed estheticians don’t have to go to medical school, but they still go through plenty of training. 

First, they must obtain a high school diploma or a GED. Next, they’ll enroll in cosmetology school to learn the tricks of the trade. While requirements vary by state, most programs average around 600 hours. However, they can last anywhere from 250 to 1,500 hours to complete. 

Some states don’t require practitioners to go to school but accept apprenticeship hours instead. 

There are a variety of paths estheticians can take

Estheticians can choose from many specialized career paths. For example, waxing specialists focus on hair removal services, while others concentrate on facial treatments, skincare consulting, and other aspects of the industry. 

Those looking to bridge the gap between dermatology and esthetics might undergo extra training to become a medical esthetician–sometimes referred to as an aesthetician. When comparing aestheticians vs estheticians, the former might work in a med spa and have qualifications to administer Botox injections and other fillers, while the latter performs more superficial treatments. 

However, these terms aren’t set in stone. In fact, some states use them interchangeably. 

Bosses in Beauty is here to help define your future esthetics business!

Bosses in Beauty can help you navigate the great debate of esthetician vs dermatologist so you can guide your clients in the right direction! We’re here to provide the best education and information to current and future estheticians around the globe.

No matter where you are in your career, we can help you take it to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and see how we can partner together to enhance your business!