Aesthetician vs. Esthetician: What's the Difference?

The terms aesthetician and esthetician "are phonetically very close" but represent distinct professional roles. Both focus on improving skin quality, yet they differ significantly in "licensing and qualifications." Aestheticians administer "medical-grade cosmetic treatments and injections, like Botox," while estheticians perform "skin treatments that are not considered medical, such as facials."

Education Requirements

Aesthetician Education

Aestheticians must obtain medical training and "a higher education degree in the medical field." All Skin Clique aesthetic providers are "board-certified Nurse Practitioners, Physicians Assistants, or Medical Doctors," with requirements varying by state.

Esthetician Education

Estheticians need not have a higher education degree. They typically "receive a license or certification from a cosmetology program" and may need to "pass state board exams to obtain their esthetician license." Licensing and service scope vary by state—for example, "in some states estheticians can practice microneedling while other states require this treatment to come from an aesthetician."

Career Opportunities

Aesthetician Careers

Aestheticians often have "previously worked in medical environments ranging from the ER to dermatology practice." Their medical training "allows them to pursue a wider range of career options compared to an esthetician," with greater practice autonomy. Skin Clique contracts these professionals for "microneedling, injectables (tox, filler, and biostimulators), medical-grade skincare, and weight loss prescriptions."

Esthetician Careers

Estheticians can operate med spas or salons in some states or work for others providing permitted services. They may also pursue education roles developing other estheticians. Skin Clique employs estheticians for "medical-grade skincare and consults."

Skin Care Services

Aestheticians are licensed to administer "medical-grade cosmetic treatments or services" including "medical aesthetic injections and treatments like Botox, dermal filler, chemical peels, microneedling." They assess skin health and recommend "holistic treatment plan[s]" and may prescribe pharmaceutical treatments.

Estheticians provide "skin treatments that do not qualify as medical," including "facials, hair removal (waxing and laser), dermaplaning, makeup application, and acne extractions." They recommend skincare and treatments related to skin care.

Choosing Between Professionals

When selecting a provider, "it's important to know which professional provides the specific services you need in your area." Always choose "a licensed provider who specializes in the treatment you're looking for," consulting "a qualified medical professional" for medical aesthetic procedures.