Cosmetology VS Dermatology: Let’s Find Out the Key Differences
When it comes to taking care of our skin and enhancing our appearance, two fields come to mind: cosmetology and dermatology. Although they may seem similar, they are two distinct fields of medical science that are concerned with skin health, beauty treatments, and various kinds of therapies that deal with skin and other diseases. Both fields are an integral part of the medical field and have their unique scope, which is essential for human skin health and appearance.
Before diving deeper into the details of Dermatology and Cosmetology in Pakistan, it is essential to differentiate between the two fields and understand the key differences between them.
Difference between a Dermatologist and a Cosmetologist?
A dermatologist or a cosmetologist is a skin specialist doctor who is responsible for skin counseling patients, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the skin, mucous membranes, hair, and nails. They have completed their medical education, including a bachelor’s degree, a medical degree (MBBS), and a dermatology specialty course (MD or Diploma in Dermatology). Dermatologists are trained to deal with both common skin diseases and complex skin diseases and are qualified to perform various procedures and surgeries.
Cosmetologist, on the other hand, A cosmetologist deals with attractiveness in the human body in a non-surgical way. While a plastic surgeon modifies or repairs any part of the human body through a surgical procedure. However, they are trained and certified in various beauty treatments, including facials, hair styling, makeup, and nail care. They help their clients improve their appearance and enhance their beauty by using various cosmetic products various treatments and procedures.
Basic differentiation between Cosmetology and Dermatology
The main difference between cosmetology and dermatology is their approach to skin counseling patients dealing with skin issues. Cosmetologists focus on enhancing the appearance of the skin, hair, and nails, while dermatologists diagnose and treat skin diseases and disorders. Cosmetologist work with healthy skin, while dermatologists work with both healthy and diseased skin.
Dermatologists- Not Only Working As Physicians
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin diseases and disorders. They are trained to identify and treat various skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, skin cancer, and hair loss, among others.
Apart from treating skin diseases, dermatologists also perform cosmetic surgeries, such as removing scars and dark circles under the eyes. They also provide skin care counseling to patients and advise them on how to maintain good skin health.
Duties of Dermatologists vs. Cosmetologists
Dermatologists have a more extensive scope of practice than cosmetologists. While cosmetologists mainly focus on enhancing the skin’s appearance through non-surgical treatments and cosmetic products, dermatologists diagnose and treat various skin problems and diseases, including
- Diagnosing and treating skin problems
- Recording health histories and performing skin examinations
- Performing skin surgeries and providing medical treatments
- Prescribing medication for skin disorders
- Providing guidance on maintaining healthy skin
The duties of a cosmetologist include:
- Providing non-surgical beauty treatments like facials, manicures, and pedicures
- Recommending beauty products to improve skin and hair health
- Keeping customer records and providing personalized beauty advice
- Performing haircuts and hairstyling
- Performing makeup application and providing beauty tips
Fields of Dermatology
Dermatology is a unique field that deals with various aspects of human skin health. It covers a wide range of skin problems, including acne, psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, and other skin conditions. Dermatology also covers hair and scalp health, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
In Pakistan, dermatology is a rapidly growing field, and many medical schools offer degrees in dermatology. The BS Dermatology program is a four-year degree program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of skin health, diseases, and treatments. Some of the fields of dermatology include:
- Pediatric Dermatology: Pediatric dermatologists diagnose and treat skin problems in infants and children.
- Cosmetic Dermatology: Cosmetic dermatologists perform non-surgical procedures such as Botox injections, chemical peels, and laser treatments to improve a person’s appearance.
- Dermatopathology: Dermatopathologists study skin samples under a microscope to diagnose skin problems.
- Mohs Surgery: Mohs surgeons perform a type of skin cancer surgery that involves removing layers of skin until all cancerous cells are gone.
Importance of Each Field
Each field of dermatology is important in its own way. Pediatric dermatologists play a critical role in the early diagnosis and treatment of skin problems in children, while cosmetic dermatologists help people feel more confident in their appearance. Dermatopathologists are essential in accurately diagnosing skin problems, and Mohs surgeons perform lifesaving procedures for patients with skin cancer.
Examples of the Types of Patients a Dermatologist May Encounter
Dermatologists may encounter patients with a wide range of skin problems, including acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, skin cancer, vitiligo, warts, moles, and rashes. They may also see patients with hair loss or nail problems. Some dermatologists specialize in treating specific populations, such as pediatric dermatologists who work with children, while others focus on specific conditions, such as dermatologists who treat skin cancer. Additionally, dermatologists may encounter patients seeking cosmetic treatments, such as laser hair removal, Botox injections, or chemical peels.
Scope of Dermatology
The scope of dermatology is vast, and there is a growing demand for dermatologists in Pakistan. Dermatologists can work in private hospitals, government hospitals, and medical labs. They can also set up their private clinics and provide specialized services to patients.
The health department of Pakistan also requires the services of dermatologists to provide skin care and treatment to patients suffering from various skin problems.
Scope of cosmetology
Like dermatology, cosmetology is also a growing field with many opportunities for those interested in beauty and aesthetic treatments. Cosmetology primarily deals with non-surgical procedures to enhance the appearance of the body, skin, hair, and nails. Some of the services provided by cosmetologists include beauty treatments, laser treatments, and cosmetic surgeries. In Pakistan, cosmetologists mainly work in private clinics, salons, and beauty parlors, catering to a wide range of customers who seek to improve their appearance.
The required education and training
Cosmetologists usually require a high school diploma or equivalent to pursue a career in cosmetology. They can then enroll in a cosmetology program that may take up to one year to complete. After completing the program, they are required to take a licensing exam to practice cosmetology. Cosmetologists undergo continuous training to stay up-to-date with the latest beauty treatments and techniques.
Dermatologists, on the other hand, require extensive education and training to become medical doctors. They first need to complete a bachelor’s degree, usually in a pre-medical field such as biology or chemistry. They then need to complete medical school, which takes an additional four years. After completing medical school, they need to undergo a residency program, which can last up to four years. After completing the residency program, they are required to take a licensing exam to practice dermatology.
Is It Important To Do MBBS For Being A Dermatologist?
Yes, it is important to do an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) to become a dermatologist in Pakistan. After completing MBBS, one can specialize in dermatology by doing a postgraduate degree, such as FCPS (Fellow of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan) in Dermatology. The course duration is 4 years, and it provides comprehensive training in diagnosing and treating various skin diseases and disorders. Apart from MBBS, students can also pursue FSC pre-medical before taking the entry test for medical colleges.
MBBS
MBBS is a 5-year undergraduate medical degree program that is recognized globally. In Pakistan, it is mandatory to complete MBBS to practice medicine as a physician, surgeon, or specialist. The program includes both theoretical and practical training in various medical fields, such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and community medicine.
How can I become a cosmetologist in Pakistan?
Candidates should be at least ten years old from an approved board of examination. The non-medical cosmetologist may take either an accredited degree in cosmetology after 12 years or graduation. For medical cosmetologists with MBMB-BS-BDS-BAMS-BH-MS-PMGD/PGDC degree and license..
Final Words
In conclusion, Modern dermatology, it does not only deals with treating skin conditions but also helps in beautifying the appearance of individuals e.g. removing dark circles, thread lifting, etc. Pakistan has a growing demand for these services, and with the increasing prevalence of skin problems in the country, the scope of dermatology and cosmetology is only set to increase. There are many treatment options available for a variety of skin conditions, and with advancements in medical technology, the possibilities for skin care and beauty treatments are endless.
It is important to note that while cosmetic treatments can enhance one’s appearance, it is equally essential to prioritize skin health and safety. It is recommended to consult with a certified dermatologist or cosmetologist before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the fields of dermatology and cosmetology.