What does a beautician or facialist do?
Beauticians and facialists provide cosmetic skin treatments — cleansing facials, gentle exfoliation, hydration, massage and general maintenance. These are great for upkeep, relaxation and that well-cared-for glow, and a good facial can absolutely be part of healthy skin. What they don't do is diagnose or medically treat skin conditions.
What does a dermatologist do?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor specialising in skin. They diagnose and treat skin conditions, prescribe medication, and perform or direct medical treatments — for acne, scarring, pigmentation, rosacea, suspicious or changing spots, and more. When there's a problem to solve (not just maintenance), this is the expertise you want, because the plan is built on a diagnosis rather than guesswork.
How do you decide which you need?
- See a dermatologist if you have: persistent or worsening acne, scarring, stubborn pigmentation or melasma, rosacea or unexplained redness, changing moles or spots, or a condition that hasn't responded to over-the-counter care. A facialist is fine for: general maintenance, hydration, relaxation and a pre-event glow on otherwise healthy skin.
- Often both: many people see a dermatologist to treat a concern, then maintain results with facials and a good routine.
Why does the difference matter most for some concerns?
For pigmentation and darker skin especially, the wrong treatment can make things worse — so a diagnosis-first, medical approach protects you. The same is true for acne (to prevent scarring) and for anything that might be a medical issue rather than a cosmetic one. When in doubt, an assessment is the safe move. Our dermatology appointment is led by consultant dermatologist Dr. Barikbin.
Can one clinic offer both?
Yes — a medical aesthetic clinic combines dermatologist-led diagnosis and treatment with maintenance treatments like medical facials, so your care is coordinated under one roof rather than split across places that don't talk to each other.