Should You See an Esthetician or a Dermatologist?

Different concerns call for different experts.

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as a skin condition that won’t go away. Whether it's a sudden breakout, an oily face, or an itchy rash, we all reach a point where we need to ask for help. But the major question here is who to see or what to do. While both dermatologists and estheticians can help treat a variety of skin issues, they have two very different jobs. So who should you see? Here’s how to tell.

Dullness, Dryness, Or General Lack Of Glow

Is your bright face suddenly looking dull? While stress, pregnancy, and our periods can impact our skin, if you’ve been using the same products for a long time and your face just doesn’t look as good as it used to, you probably need to see an esthetician. “Your favorite esthetician can definitely assist you with that glowing/dewy complexion. Estheticians generally have a beauty arsenal that can help with dull skin ranging from facial options, peels, light treatments, and more. They can also discuss your at-home product regimen to ensure you’re using what’s best for your skin type and your goals,” says Vance Soto, Owner of the Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa and Founder of VSOTO Skincare. 

Serious Skin Conditions

Sometimes we ignore the severity of a skin issue or a rash that won’t go away. It can even become uncomfortable. If this is the case, Dr. Dendy Engelman, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue says it's time to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. “If you have serious eczema, psoriasis, or a skin infection, I would consult with a dermatologist to assess your skin and discuss an immediate course of action.”

Something Major Changed With Your Skin

While an esthetician can recommend a sunscreen to help prevent skin cancer, they can’t diagnose or treat it. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are a variety of types of skin cancer. If you see something, say something, definitely applies here. If you have a mole that’s changed, looks uneven, a bump that wasn’t there before, or lesions, go to a dermatologist immediately.

You’re Breaking Out

If you have a sudden breakout or a pimple that won’t go away with a topical treatment after a week or so, it’s time to see an esthetician. They can do extractions or help you change up your skincare routine. “I would start with a good deep cleansing facial with an experienced esthetician. Many times they can help get your eruption-prone skin under control,” says Soto. “There can be many causes of sudden breakouts like: new products (both hair and skin), allergic reactions, diet, lifestyle, bacteria, stress, hormones etc. Process of elimination and potentially adding some products to combat the eruptions will be very helpful.”

Just keep in mind that if you’re using a new product and suddenly break out, you might be allergic to it. So go back to your old skincare routine, wait a few days, and then make an appointment if need be.  

Chronic Acne

Chronic acne can be a big challenge and is often beyond the scope of an esthetician. “If you have persistent or severe acne that is painful, under the skin, and doesn’t go away with your current skincare regimen and over-the-counter products, I would recommend seeking out a dermatologist for a customized treatment plan,” says Engelman. “A dermatologist may discuss oral antibiotics, topical treatments, or acne treatments, such as AviClear with you.”

Treatments And Medications

Interested in trying a prescription skincare product such as Tretinoin? Dr. Engelman says to see a derm. “If you are looking to discuss a customized treatment course or ask specific questions about oral medications or topical treatments, I would lean towards seeing a board-certified dermatologist. An esthetician can help you with a skincare regimen, but a dermatologist can help diagnose skin conditions and prescribe a treatment course and medications.”

Cosmetic Procedures

If thinking about getting injectibles, visit a dermatologist. “While estheticians perform skin treatments, facials, and more when it comes to injectables such as Botox and fillers and more invasive procedures, it is best to consult with a dermatologist or an experienced injector,” explains Engelman.  

Still Not Sure Or Have Multiple Problems?

If you’re still not sure what type of help is best for you or you have multiple problems—go to a dermatologist. Many have estheticians and nurses in their offices. So, if your doctor thinks a treatment like a Hydrafacial is the right choice, you can make an appointment right then and there—knowing you’ll be in good hands.

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