Question: Should I See an Esthetician or a Dermatologist about My Acne?
So you've decided to seek out a professional to help treat your acne, but you're unsure who to call. Could your acne be effectively managed with the help of a skilled esthetician, or would you be better off making an appointment with your dermatologist?
Answer:
Your Esthetician
Estheticians, also known as skin care therapists, are trained to perform cosmetic procedures such as facials, body treatments, and waxing. Most have no medical training, and they can't prescribe acne medications. But estheticians can help maintain skin health by performing deep cleansing facials and exfoliation treatments, as well as extracting pore blockages.Estheticians can suggest skin care products for your skin type and recommend over-the-counter acne treatments. A good esthetician will also teach you how to properly care for your skin at home.
See an esthetician if:
- Your acne is generally mild.
- You need help choosing skin care products that won't clog pores or aggravate acne.
- You have non-inflammatory breakouts and blackheads. (Estheticians can help to extract, or cleanse out, these blemishes.)
- You have mild inflammatory acne that is responding well to over-the-counter treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- Your doctor has recommended regular facials to help keep pores clear.
Find an Esthetician through Associated Skin Care Professionals
Your Dermatologist
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of the skin. Your dermatologist is a great help in treating acne. Not only will your dermatologist provide excellent skin care advice, she has a wide array of acne medications -- both topical and systemic -- at her disposal.See a dermatologist if:
- Your acne isn't responding to over-the-counter treatments.
- Your acne is getting worse, despite treatment.
- You have moderate to severe inflammatory acne, cystic or nodulocystic acne.
- You need advice and guidance in treating your acne of any grade.
- Your esthetician suggests seeing a dermatologist for your acne.
