What distinguishes a medical esthetician from a traditional esthetician?

A medical esthetician differentiates themselves from a traditional esthetician primarily through their work environment and the nature of services they provide. Specifically, medical estheticians work under the supervision of healthcare professionals such as dermatologists or plastic surgeons and are involved in procedures that complement medical treatments.

This collaboration with healthcare professionals enables medical estheticians to perform more advanced skin care treatments that may involve post-operative care or the management of specific skin conditions like acne, rosacea, or pigmentation issues. These treatments often require a deeper understanding of skin biology, as well as knowledge about medical procedures.

In contrast, traditional estheticians typically focus on cosmetic services such as facials, makeup application, and hair removal, which do not necessitate medical training or the oversight of healthcare providers. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the integrated relationship between medical estheticians and medical professionals, emphasizing their role in supporting medical procedures and providing specialized care in a clinical setting.