Many individuals are interested in the growing range of aesthetic treatments, from injectables to facials, and med spas have emerged as restful settings offering some of these procedures. If you’re considering treatment, it’s important to know that dermatologists and med spas are significantly different.
While med spas and dermatologists offer some of the same treatments, at Berman Skin Institute, our board-certified dermatologists and years of experience enable us to offer a wider range of solutions that encompass both skin health and aesthetics.
What Is a Med Spa?
Also known as medical spas, med spas focus mostly on aesthetic procedures such as laser treatments and injectables. In California, med spas are regulated and must be owned by a licensed physician or an independently licensed nurse practitioner who meets the state’s full practice authority requirements. Med spas must also meet safety standards and provide “good faith exams” before treatment. However, physicians do not need to be on-site at a med spa.
In California, registered nurses, physician assistants and eligible nurse practitioners can only perform medical procedures when supervised by a licensed physician.
What Is a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor specializing in skin, hair and nail health. They will have completed medical school, an internship and a three-year dermatology residency. Dermatologists must pass exams and licensing regulations and meet ongoing education requirements to remain in good standing.
Dermatologists are qualified to diagnose and treat skin diseases, including skin cancer, eczema and acne. They can also offer cosmetic procedures, but they can often do so with a deeper medical understanding.
Med Spas vs. Dermatologists: Key Differences
When you’re considering which treatment to seek or are wondering whether to get BOTOX® at a med spa or dermatologist’s office, keep these differences in mind:
- Scope of practice: If you want a simple facial, a spa may be the right choice. If you are looking for a partner who will help you protect your skin health and support you in looking your best, a dermatologist can offer more treatments.
- Level of medical expertise: A dermatologist is a medical doctor, and this can be important if your cosmetic skin concern is actually a health concern.
- Types of conditions treated: Dermatologists can treat more medical conditions than med spas. They can evaluate suspicious moles, screen you for cancer, prescribe medication, treat medical conditions and even perform surgery.
- Safety standards: In a dermatologist’s office, you have qualified medical professionals with years of education and hands-on experience who address your needs.
Choosing the Right Option
Med spas can meet your cosmetic and aesthetic needs in a pampering environment. If you have a potential medical skin condition that may require a diagnosis or treatment, dermatologists are the right choice. Qualified dermatology professionals know more about skin health, how to administer treatments safely and what to do if you have an adverse reaction.
Schedule an Appointment With a Dermatologist
If you’re ready to work with a partner in your health and aesthetics, Berman Skin Institute offers a range of medical and cosmetic dermatology treatments. Schedule a consultation to explore your options.
