Should You Visit a Dermatologist or Esthetician for Laser Hair Removal?

Many people are tempted by the promise of laser hair removal in West Hollywood. It offers a non-invasive, permanent solution for unwanted hair. You can typically get it performed on any part of the body where you no longer wish to deal with the excess body hair. You have many options for laser hair removal, and one of the most important you have to make is whether to visit an esthetician or dermatologist to handle the procedure. There are a few reasons why you might prefer to head to a West Hollywood dermatology location for the service.

Defining the Professions

It is important to understand the difference in the training and background of a dermatologist and an esthetician. A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in dermatology, which is the study of skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes. The educational requirements typically include at least a medical school degree, an internship and undergoing a specialty dermatology program. This education and training provides a dermatologist with enhanced understanding of anatomy and physiology, as well as the underlying causes of conditions. They have also been well trained in a variety of treatment options, including laser hair removal in West Hollywood.

Alternatively, an esthetician has not undergone such training in West Hollywood dermatology. Instead of 10-14 years of higher education, an esthetician undergoes a one to two-year course on skin care. Some estheticians train under dermatologists and work in their clinics under the purview of the dermatologists. Although many states have specific guidelines in place for training estheticians, it is nowhere near as specific as that of a doctor.

Potential Problems

When dealing with laser hair removal, it might be best to work with someone well trained in West Hollywood dermatology. This helps to reduce any potential problems that might happen. Although laser hair removal is non-invasive, there are still risks involved. If the procedure is performed incorrectly, you could end up with scars or other damage to the skin. Plus, not everyone is a candidate for hair removal. You always want to have a dermatologist review your history and ensure that you do not have any risks if you were to undergo any skin care, including laser hair removal.

You might not think that hair removal has anything to do with the skin, but there are factors that might make the hair removal more complicated. For example, if you have enlarged pores or stretch marks, it could affect the power, size and frequency of the laser. Therefore, you want to work with someone who will know exactly what to use with your skin.

Find the Right Mixture

Many dermatologists employ estheticians in their office, especially if it is a medical spa. If you do choose to see an esthetician, you want to at least get an okay from someone specializing in West Hollywood dermatology that you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you got to a medical spa, then the esthetician will work closely with the dermatologist to ensure that the procedure is handled well.

There are many considerations to make before you undergo laser hair removal. It is often best to visit a dermatologist to reduce your risk of complications, including scarring.