What distinguishes a dermatology treatment from an esthetic treatment?

The distinction between dermatology treatments and esthetic treatments is primarily rooted in their objectives and applications. Dermatology is a branch of medicine that addresses medical skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It takes a clinical approach to diagnose and treat a variety of skin disorders, which can involve prescription medications, therapeutic procedures, and comprehensive evaluations of skin health.

In contrast, esthetics primarily concentrates on cosmetic improvements, enhancing the appearance and texture of the skin through procedures such as facials, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. Esthetic treatments emphasize beauty and wellness rather than treating underlying medical conditions. While esthetics can significantly improve skin appearance, it does not involve the diagnosis or treatment of medical skin disorders.

This understanding of the roles and focuses of dermatology and esthetics clarifies why the answer accurately captures the essential difference—dermatology addresses medical issues related to skin health, while esthetics is geared toward enhancing cosmetic appearance.