Welcome to the world of skincare. You may have heard the terms ‘Dermatologist’ and ‘Cosmetic Specialist’ thrown around. But do these two roles mean the same thing? Not quite. They can both improve the health and appearance of your skin, yet in distinct ways. Let’s explore these differences together. But first, let’s touch base on a popular service you may have heard of – Emsculpt Neo New York. It’s a prime example of a treatment option you might encounter in both fields.
The Dermatologist
A Dermatologist is a medical doctor. They study diseases that affect the skin, hair, and nails. They go to medical school and then specialize in dermatology. They can diagnose and treat over 3,000 conditions. This includes skin cancer, eczema, acne and psoriasis.
The Cosmetic Specialist
A Cosmetic Specialist, on the other hand, focuses on improving appearance. They work on skin issues related to aging, such as wrinkles and age spots. They can also address scarring, such as from acne or surgery. A Cosmetic Specialist may be a dermatologist, but they can also be a plastic surgeon or another type of doctor.
Comparison Table
DERMATOLOGIST | COSMETIC SPECIALIST | |
EDUCATION | Medical doctor, specialized in dermatology | May be a medical doctor, including dermatologist or plastic surgeon |
FOCUS | Treats diseases of skin, hair, and nails | Improves the appearance of skin and may also treat skin diseases |
COMMON TREATMENTS | Skin cancer, eczema, acne | Wrinkles, age spots, scarring |
Now, let’s return to our Emsculpt example. A dermatologist might offer this treatment to help heal skin after surgery. A Cosmetic Specialist might offer it to improve the appearance of sagging skin. In both cases, the goal is healthier, better-looking skin.
Which One Do I Need?
Which professional you need depends on your skin concern. If you have a skin disease, see a dermatologist. If you want to improve the appearance of your skin, see a Cosmetic Specialist. However, there’s often overlap. A Cosmetic Specialist who’s also a dermatologist could be a one-stop shop for your skin health and beauty needs. Connect with professionals in both fields to get the best care for your skin.
Here is a helpful link to understand more about the work of a Dermatologist and here is more information about the Cosmetic Specialists.