With over 15,000 medical spas across the United States and an annual customer spending of $16 billion, it’s easy to mix aesthetics professionals up and keep up with advances.
So, what exactly is the difference between a dermatologist, an aesthetician and an esthetician and what do they do?

Skin Deep
The skin, as the body’s largest organ, plays a crucial role in protection, temperature regulation, and overall health. It is a barrier against harmful elements while also reflecting internal well-being. Composed of multiple layers, each with its own specialized function, the skin continually renews itself and responds to environmental factors like UV exposure, pollution, and lifestyle habits.
In order to maintain its natural balance, enhance elasticity, and promote a healthy, radiant appearance, dedicated skin and aesthetics professionals contribute their different skills.
Aesthetics Professionals 101
Dermatologists
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the skin, hair, nails and mucus membrane. Some dermatologists are also surgeons.
Board-certified dermatologists have an Allopathic (MD) or Osteopathic (DO) degree, have completed their 3-year residency and 1-year internship, and have obtained their board certification through either the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) and the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology. They go through extensive training, which allows them to accurately diagnose and properly treat more than 3,000 diseases of the skin, hair, and nails as well as cosmetic concerns.
Dermatologists work in hospitals, specialist skin clinics and medical offices. You might find that they can:
- Treat a prominent birthmark.
- Remove a deadly melanoma at its earliest, most treatable stage.
- Offer relief for someone with chronic eczema.
- Or diagnose a life-threatening liver condition causing unbearable itching.
Dermatologists know the difference between something small and something major.
As licensed healthcare providers, dermatologists can prescribe medication for a variety of conditions whose symptoms are associated with the skin or hair.
Book an appointment with Dr. Fodero today
Medical Aestheticians
Medical estheticians are licensed professionals working to improve patients’ physical appearance, often through skin treatments. They’re closely associated with the field of dermatology.
Professionals in this field often work in medical settings alongside dermatologists, like hospitals or private practices, but they may also work in other types of clinics or medical spas. They rarely require formal medical training to qualify for these roles, but they do go through esthetics school, which typically requires between 300 and 1,000 hours of study, depending on the state. Upon completing the program, they need to get their license by passing a state exam—every state has its requirements for anyone who wants to work as a medical esthetician.
Medical estheticians perform a variety of procedures and services that focus on protecting or improving the skin. They usually have a consultation with the client to discuss their skin care needs, examine the skin, and recommend the best course of action moving forward.
After that initial consultation, they may recommend and perform the following procedures:
Estheticians
Aestheticians and estheticians have similar-sounding job titles, so it can be confusing to tell the difference. While they can work in similar surroundings and perform duties in the skincare industry, to work in a medical setting, estheticians need further training and certifications. Aestheticians perform medical skin procedures, while estheticians perform cosmetic and cleaning procedures, such as:
- Massages
- Facials
- Waxing
Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Dermatologists, aestheticians and estheticians can work together in medical spas to offer comprehensive treatments that bring out the best out of clients’ natural beauty. At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, thanks to our highly personalized consultations, every patient gets a treatment plan especially tailored to their needs. Whether you are struggling with skin issues like rosacea or acne, or are looking to increase your natural collagen or improve overall tone and texture, the products we work with ensure the effective, long-lasting results that you have been waiting for.
If you live in Florham Park, NJ, or the surrounding areas, contact us today to learn more about our treatments and how they can bring out the best in you. Book a consultation by calling (973) 295-6565 or sending a message online.