Have you ever looked in the mirror, wondered about that stubborn rash or those fine lines, and felt confused about who to see? With so many specialists available, it’s a common dilemma. Should you book an appointment with a dermatologist or an aesthetic doctor? Understanding the distinct roles and expertise of these professionals is the first step to getting the right care for your skin concerns.
This guide will clarify their differences and help you find the best path for your skin’s health and appearance.
What is a Dermatologist? (And What Can They Treat?)
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. They complete extensive medical training followed by specialised dermatology residency programmes.
Dermatologists undergo rigorous training that includes four years of medical school, followed by a four-year dermatology residency. This comprehensive education equips them to handle complex skin conditions ranging from common acne to rare autoimmune disorders. Their expertise extends beyond cosmetic concerns to life-threatening conditions like skin cancer.
In Singapore, dermatologists must be registered with the Singapore Medical Council and often hold additional certifications from recognised international dermatology boards. They work in both public institutions like the National Skin Centre and private practices throughout the island.
The Role of a Dermatologist vs. Aesthetic Doctor
Dermatologists primarily focus on treating skin diseases and conditions that affect health and quality of life. They diagnose and manage conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and severe acne. They can prescribe topical medications, recommend lifestyle modifications, and provide ongoing management strategies to control flare-ups.
Aesthetic doctors, concentrate on cosmetic procedures to improve skin appearance. They perform treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, and injectable procedures whilst maintaining medical oversight of the patient’s overall skin health.
Common Conditions Treated by a Dermatologist
Dermatologists treat an extensive range of skin conditions, from minor irritations to serious diseases:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – Chronic inflammatory skin condition requiring specialised management
- Psoriasis – Autoimmune condition affecting skin cell turnover
- Skin cancer – Including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma
- Hair disorders – Such as alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia
- Nail conditions – Including fungal infections and psoriatic nail changes
- Infectious skin diseases – Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections
- Autoimmune skin conditions – Such as lupus and dermatomyositis
When to See a Dermatologist
Recognising when to consult a dermatologist can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems:
Immediate consultation needed:
- Sudden changes in moles or new growths
- Persistent rashes lasting more than two weeks
- Severe acne not responding to over-the-counter treatments
- Signs of skin infection (pus, spreading redness, fever)
Schedule routine consultations for:
- Annual skin cancer screenings (especially if you have risk factors)
- Chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis requiring ongoing management
- Hair loss that’s progressive or patchy
If over-the-counter treatments haven’t worked after 6-8 weeks, or if you’re developing scarring, it’s time to seek professional help.
What is an Aesthetic Doctor? (And Their Scope of Practice)
Aesthetic doctors focus primarily on cosmetic procedures and treatments designed to enhance appearance rather than treat medical conditions. They typically come from various medical backgrounds and have pursued additional training in aesthetic procedures.
Unlike dermatologists who specialise exclusively in skin medicine, aesthetic doctors may have trained in general practice, surgery, or other medical fields before transitioning to aesthetic medicine. Their primary goal is improving patients’ appearance through non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.
In Singapore, aesthetic doctors must be registered medical practitioners, but their additional training in cosmetic procedures can vary considerably. Some complete comprehensive aesthetic medicine courses, whilst others may have more limited training in specific procedures.
The Importance of Certification and Training
When choosing an aesthetic doctor, verify their credentials and training background. Look for doctors who have completed recognised aesthetic medicine programmes and maintain ongoing education in their field.
Check that they’re registered with the Singapore Medical Council and ask about their specific training in the procedures you’re considering. Reputable aesthetic doctors should be transparent about their qualifications and experience.
Ensure the clinic follows proper safety protocols and uses approved products and equipment. This includes proper storage of injectables and adherence to sterile technique protocols.
Common Procedures Performed by Aesthetic Doctors
Aesthetic doctors commonly offer these cosmetic treatments:
- Injectable treatments – Botulinum toxin for wrinkles, dermal fillers for volume enhancement
- Laser treatments – Hair removal, skin resurfacing, pigmentation reduction
- Energy-based therapies – Radiofrequency, ultrasound, and intense pulsed light treatments
- Chemical peels – Light to medium-depth peels for skin rejuvenation
- Thread lifts – Non-surgical facelift procedures
- Body contouring – CoolSculpting and similar fat reduction treatments
These procedures focus on aesthetic improvement rather than treating underlying skin conditions or diseases.
Differentiating Aesthetic Doctors from Dermatologists
The key difference between aesthetic doctor from dermatologist lies in their training focus and scope of practice. Aesthetic doctors primarily concentrate on cosmetic enhancement procedures, dermatologists on the other hand, are trained to diagnose and treat skin diseases comprehensively.
Aesthetic doctors excel in procedures like botulinum toxin injections, dermal fillers, and energy-based treatments for skin rejuvenation. However, they may not have the extensive training in skin pathology and complex medical conditions that dermatologists possess.
Making the Right Choice: Dermatologist or Aesthetic Doctor?
Choosing between specialists depends on your specific needs, concerns, and treatment goals. Understanding when each specialist is most appropriate ensures you receive optimal care for your situation.
When dealing with serious medical skin conditions such as skin cancer, severe acne, or autoimmune diseases affecting the skin, it is crucial to consult a board-certified dermatologist. For cosmetic procedures aimed at improving skin texture, tone, or signs of aging, both a dermatologist and an aesthetic doctor can provide excellent care. To make the right choice for your cosmetic goals, consider factors such as the professional’s years of experience, patient reviews, and before-and-after photos of their work. A thorough consultation can also help you determine which practitioner’s approach and expertise align best with your desired outcomes.
For complex or medical conditions, dermatologists provide the most comprehensive care. For purely cosmetic procedures, aesthetic doctor may be appropriate if properly trained and experienced.
Why choose Dr Shane for Your Aesthetic Needs?
In the evolving field of aesthetic care, patients seek a professional who offers both expertise in skin health and an artistic approach to cosmetic treatments. While dermatologists are often consulted for skin-related medical conditions, aesthetic practitioners focus on enhancing natural beauty through various non-surgical and surgical procedures.
Dr. Shane Tan is an experienced medical professional with a focus on aesthetic medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the National University of Singapore and a post-graduate surgical membership from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. His extensive training and experience, combined with his role as President of the Society of Aesthetic Medicine, Singapore, demonstrate his commitment to professional standards and patient safety. Dr. Tan is fully accredited in the procedures he performs and is dedicated to providing personalised treatment plans that align with each patient’s unique goals.
To understand the distinctions between a dermatologist and an aesthetic practitioner, and to learn more about the best approach for your specific needs, we encourage you to book a consultation. During this session, Dr. Shane will provide professional, tailored advice and discuss the available treatment options to help you achieve your desired results.
At Dr Shane’s clinic, we believe remarkable results begin with three fundamentals: medical precision, honest advice, and customised care.
While many clinics focus on selling treatments, we prioritise:
- In-depth 1-1 skin health consultations (at least 30 mins)
- HSA/FDA-compliant protocols using approved devices with documented safety profiles
- Personalised energy settings adjusted for your unique skin thickness and concerns
What makes our approach different?
✔ Doctor-Led Consultations
Every treatment plan begins with a medical evaluation of your skin’s needs – not a sales conversation.
✔ Safety-First Philosophy
We use only HSA-approved devices and disclose all potential risks transparently.
✔ No Pressure, Just Professional Advice
You’ll leave your consultation either:
- Confident this treatment is right for you, or
- Aware of better alternatives for your goals
✔ Natural-Looking Results
Our treatment plans prioritise gradual, authentic improvement over dramatic but short-lived changes.
✔ Continued Aftercare
Post-treatment guidance to help maintain and optimise your results
The First Step is Always a Conversation
Many patients discover during consultation that their skin concerns actually require:
→ A different treatment approach
→ Combination therapies
→ Or simply more time before considering procedures
Book a skin health assessment to get professional insights before deciding on any treatment.
Let us help you find what’s right for your skin—not just what’s trending.
Secure your skin health consultation slot with Dr Shane today
Great skin starts with the right diagnosis.