SHOULD YOU SEE A SKIN CARE THERAPIST OR A DERMATOLOGIST?

The Facts About a Dermatologist

A Dermatologist has a medical degree and 4 years of specialist training. A Dermatologist deals with all skin related issues from babies through to the elderly. They deal with sun related issues, such as skin cancers and have a wide variety of treatments at their disposal (cream, liquid nitrogen, and various types of surgery). They also encompass issues relating to hair and nails as these are made up of keratin, the same protein as our skin. Their work covers skin issues such as moles, psoriasis, eczema, acne, melasma, warts and skin infections.

The Facts About A Skin Care Therapist

A Skin Care Therapist on the other hand studies the aesthetics of the skin and how that is applied cosmetically. A Skin Care Therapist can have different qualifications ranging from Certificate III to Degree Level. The majority of therapists in salons will have a certificate IV or Diploma, and Cosmetic Clinics will practice Dermal Therapies for more specific skincare treatment. Cosmetic Clinics generally practice Dermal Therapies such as Skin Needling (CIT Therapy), RF (radiofrequency), Lasers, Microdermabrasion, Cosmetic Injectables, and advanced facial therapies including peels. A Skin Care Therapist will determine your skincare needs, assess the correct product protocol using skincare products, and recommend a course of treatments to achieve your goal.

When To See A Dermatologist?

If your concern is non cosmetic such as a change in the appearance of moles, freckles, rash, skin growths dermatitis or another skin irritation you best see a Dermatologist. Any medical related skin issue, you are best to consult with a Dermatologist.

When To See A Skin Care Therapist

If your issue is cosmetic and you are wanting to achieve the healthiest skin possible then I recommend seeing an experienced Skin Care Therapist. A Skin Care Therapist will take all of your skincare concerns into account and advise the best treatments and products to assist you in achieving your goals. For changes in skin growths and moles I have recommended for clients to seek medical advice, but in reference to acne I have never had to refer a client onto a Dermatologist. My concern with people seeing a Dermatologist for acne is they are put on Roaccutane too quickly before trying other methods first. I see many clients for the first time who are on Roaccutane for acne and they only have the occasional breakout. A committed skincare regime and treatment protocol has assisted my clients well over the years for acne with no roaccutane needed. Certainly for Grade IV Cystic Acne I would recommend the client to see both a Dermatologist and a Skin Care Therapist and work in conjunction. Skin sensitivities, ageing, pigmentation and dermal fillers/botox are all available at your reputable Cosmetic Clinic. Regular skincare treatments will improve your skin health.

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