The Difference Between a Dermatologist and a Medical Spa

Medical Spas and Dermatologists both specialize in skin and offer safe, effective treatments. Despite these similarities, some important differences determine whether you should visit a dermatologist or a medical spa. With the right framework, dermatologists and medical spas complement one another perfectly, sort of like an expertly paired cheese and wine board.  

What is a Medical Spa?

A medical spa focuses on treating cosmetic concerns through specific treatments, products, and services. Medical spas primarily hire aestheticians, experienced professionals but not doctors who can diagnose medical conditions. Urban You, Modern Beauty and Wellness, qualifies as a medical spa. Our Northville location offers a variety of products and treatments to solve your aesthetic concerns, from acne to aging, and everywhere in between. Meet our qualified team and book an appointment today!

What is a Dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who can diagnose skin conditions and provides treatment based on skin health rather than cosmetics. If you have a specific skin concern (lump, bump, or rash), a dermatologist should be your choice. Likewise, if you want to explore medication options for skin conditions like acne, a dermatologist is the one who can prescribe medications. Visiting the dermatologist once a year is a smart decision to keep your body protected against skin cancer and other harmful ailments.

 Should I visit a dermatologist or a medical spa?

The short answer to this question is both! To see your skin thrive, you should reap the advantages of both dermatologists and medical spa visits. When you have a medical skin concern or want to explore medication options, visit a dermatologist. When you have an aesthetic concern or want to improve the appearance of your skin, visit a medical spa such as Urban You. Medical spas are also a much better resource for wellness treatments, holistic health, and stress relief, offering services like facials and NuCalm.

What about Botox and Filler? 

Of course, there is some crossover between dermatologists and medical spas. Both can provide filler and Botox, and both often offer facials. While a dermatologist treats a number of different conditions, the injectors at Urban You focus solely on fillers and Botox, offering real-world expertise and years of experience that a dermatologist might not always have. The injectors at Urban You have seen countless patients with a variety of concerns, meaning they know how to treat your unique skin and face shape. In addition, fillers, Botox, and facials can be more cost-effective at a medical spa.

If you’re ready to start boosting the cosmetic appearance of your skin, choose from a variety of treatments offered at Urban You in Northville, MI, or Grand Rapids, MI to draft the next chapter of your skin health story. Just don’t forget to book an appointment with a trusted dermatologist too!