There are certain personal care needs where you may have multiple robust options in terms of professional assistance, and the realm of skin care and acne treatment is a good example. Two forms of skin care professionals who are often consulted by patients dealing with acne are dermatologists and estheticians - what do both of these terms mean, and which of these professionals is best for your needs?
At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we're here to offer the best acne specialist and esthetician services around Salt Lake City, including online acne treatment and various in-person programs within our skin care clinic. Our team is highly trained in treating acne through deep pore-cleansing treatments, custom product recommendations, and hands-on guidance that helps manage breakouts and clear the skin long-term.
There can be situations where either a dermatologist or esthetician is ideal for acne treatment - here are some basics on both, plus some settings where one or the other might be the right choice for you.
When we talk about skincare, we often hear the term 'esthetician' thrown around. But what exactly is an esthetician and how do they differ from a dermatologist?
An esthetician is a professional who specializes in skin care treatments, primarily for cosmetic purposes. They are trained in various techniques such as facials, exfoliation, waxing, and more. Estheticians typically work in spas or salons and focus on improving the appearance of their client's skin through non-medical treatments.
Estheticians focus on corrective skincare by combining deep pore-cleansing treatments with personalized routines that help manage acne breakouts and clear the skin.
On the other hand, a dermatologist is a medical doctor who has completed specialized training in diagnosing and treating conditions related to skin, hair, and nails. They are qualified to provide medical and surgical treatments for conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer.Â
Dermatologists are best for severe or persistent acne that may require prescription treatments or testing for underlying causes. For mild to moderate acne, an esthetician’s non-medical treatments and consistent care can be highly effective and many clients benefit from combining both approaches.
One of the key differences between a dermatologist and an esthetician is their focus. While dermatologists treat medical conditions, estheticians primarily focus on improving the appearance of skin. They have specialized training in performing facials, chemical peels, and other skincare treatments.
In the case of acne, estheticians can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and maintain results through regular deep-cleansing treatments and product-based routines tailored to your skin type.
As you may have guessed, this means that both these types of professionals can be quite helpful when it comes to acne treatment. However, their approaches and expertise may differ slightly.
In many skin care settings, including within acne care, medical expertise is an important factor. For instance, if you are suffering from severe acne, a dermatologist may play a crucial role in helping to identify the root cause and determine the most effective treatment plan. They are licensed medical doctors who have completed specialized training in skin, hair, and nail conditions. This means they can also diagnose other issues that may be contributing to your acne, such as hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions.
When addressing acne specifically, dermatologists will typically start by conducting a thorough examination of the affected area. This may include taking skin samples or performing other tests to determine the underlying cause of the acne. With this information, they can then develop a personalized treatment plan that may involve prescription medications, topical treatments, or even in-office procedures such as light therapy or extractions.
On the other hand, estheticians specialize in improving the overall appearance of the skin through non-medical treatments. They are often found working in spas, salons, or as independent practitioners.
Estheticians offer a variety of services such as facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and waxing to help improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. They may also provide advice on skincare products and routines tailored to an individual's specific needs.
At Skintherapy, we help clients understand acne triggers such as diet, stress, and product buildup, and recommend lifestyle adjustments that complement treatment results. By combining professional deep cleansing with education and a personalized skincare routine, they help clients achieve clearer, more balanced skin over time.
In addition to these services, estheticians also play an important role in educating their clients about proper skincare techniques and promoting self-care practices that can lead to long-term improvements in skin health.
While dermatologists focus on treating skin conditions and diseases, estheticians specialize in preventative and maintenance skincare. This means that they can work together to provide a comprehensive approach to skin health for their clients.
Collaboration between dermatologists and estheticians is especially beneficial for clients with chronic skin conditions or those seeking more intensive treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy. The expertise of both professionals can ensure that the client's specific needs are addressed and the best course of treatment is recommended.
Moreover, estheticians often refer their clients to dermatologists if they notice any concerning issues during a facial or other treatment. This can help catch potential skin conditions early on and prevent them from becoming more serious.
If you're unsure which professional is best to help you with your acne treatment needs, consult with an acne specialist. At Skintherapy, our owner, Jil Goorman, is a Master Esthetician and acne guru who truly cares about the well-being of all of our patients. She uses proven deep-cleansing methods and customized skincare plans to help manage acne at its root, all while educating clients on daily habits and lifestyle changes that support clearer skin. Jil or our other team members will be happy to consult with you to determine the ideal approach to your acne treatment.
For more on estheticians vs dermatologists for acne, or to learn about any of our skin care clinic services around SLC, contact us at Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic today!
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