In medical offices, visits from patients seeking treatment for poorly executed procedures are becoming increasingly common. Biopolymers, skin blemishes, infections, among many other conditions, are the result of inexperience and the illegality of establishments that perform procedures that only a healthcare professional is authorized to undertake.
However, beyond targeting these establishments, the purpose of this article is to clarify the scope of a cosmetologist, for example, and a medical aesthetician, so that you can inform yourself and responsibly choose between the two according to your needs.
Aesthetician and Medical Aesthetician
Medical aestheticians and traditional aestheticians (who are not necessarily professionals) are individuals trained in skincare. However, a medical aesthetician has more extensive training and can perform more specialized treatments for a variety of skin conditions. Besides studying medicine, they specialize in aesthetics to acquire specific knowledge that enables them to diagnose and treat patients.
Undoubtedly, and without questioning their contribution to skincare, a traditional aesthetician is a licensed individual who typically works in a spa environment. They primarily focus their services on providing clients with cosmetic care procedures such as facials, depilation, chemical peels, and massages.
The difference between these two areas lies in the preparation, effort, and years of study a medical professional acquires to diagnose and treat internal and external conditions related to a person’s aesthetics.
However, the expertise of medical aestheticians goes beyond beauty, as they can also perform studies on facial infiltrations, which someone working in cosmetology cannot do. Medical professionals have knowledge about the appropriate products to use and the suitable places for injections. Additionally, they can prescribe medications and provide comprehensive treatment follow-up.
Aesthetic Medicine
To provide a broader definition, aesthetic medicine encompasses medical procedures aimed at improving a patient’s physical appearance and satisfaction, utilizing non-surgical or minimally invasive procedures.
Similarly, aesthetic medicine treatments are tailored to each individual’s level of aging. To achieve optimal results, a treatment plan is developed based on age, skin condition, and individual needs.
Treatments Conducted by a Medical Aesthetician
Botulinum toxin treatment: This medication is used for Facial Rejuvenation, applied to facial muscles causing wrinkles and expression lines. Its goal is to provide the skin with a rested and rejuvenated appearance.
Facial treatment with botulinum toxin: Botulinum toxin reduces the contraction of facial muscles temporarily, leaving the skin smooth and toned, correcting wrinkles, and preventing their progression. It’s injected into areas where smoother skin is desired.
Thread lifting: This aesthetic medicine treatment rejuvenates the face by implanting Polydioxanone (PDO) threads. These threads create a vectorial network that supports the tissues, improving the effects of facial sagging.
Mesotherapy: Generally used for cellulite reduction, facial rejuvenation, weight loss through localized fat elimination, and treating certain types of alopecia. It involves micro-injections of various medications (homeopathic, vitamins, minerals, or amino acids) into the skin, depending on the treatment goals.
Peeling: Peeling, also known as chemical exfoliation or dermabrasion, depending on the technique used, involves applying chemical or physical procedures to improve the appearance and texture of the skin by destroying tissue, allowing new dermal layers to form.
As you can see, these are some treatments performed by a medical aesthetician that, although carrying a minimal degree of risk, the healthcare professional is authorized to prescribe medications to address any potential complications.
Now that you’re familiar with the distinction, we invite you to schedule your evaluation appointment with us. At Siméttrica Medical, we have highly experienced medical aestheticians who, in addition to caring for your skin, will prioritize your health and well-being. Consult with us today!