Beautician or dermatologist — when to see which
Beautician, cosmetic dermatologist, aesthetic doctor, nurse-cosmetologist — the Estonian professions explained. When to see which, and how health insurance applies.
Beautician and dermatologist — two similar-sounding job titles, but with fundamentally different training behind them. Choosing the right specialist for your skin problem is critical. In this guide we explain when to see which.
Who is who
- Dermatologist: a doctor (6 years of medical school) who has specialised in diagnosing and treating diseases of the skin, hair and nails. Works everywhere from hospitals to private clinics.
- Cosmetic dermatologist (aesthetic dermatologist):a dermatologist who has additionally specialised in aesthetic medicine. Usually works in private clinics.
- Aesthetic doctor: a doctor (not necessarily a dermatologist) who has completed further training in aesthetic medicine.
- Beautician: a vocationally trained specialist (1–3 years) who has passed the professional examination. Works in beauty salons and beauty clinics.
- Nurse-cosmetologist: a registered nurse (3 years at a college of applied higher education) with additional training.
Comparison — who does what
| Service / problem | Beautician | Dermatologist |
|---|---|---|
| Classic facial | Core specialty | Rarely |
| Peel (light to medium) | Yes | Yes |
| Deep peel (TCA 30%+) | NO | Yes |
| Microneedling | Yes | Yes |
| Diagnosing / treating acne | Limited | Core specialty |
| Rosacea | Does not treat | Yes |
| Psoriasis, eczema, skin diseases | No | Core specialty |
| Mole checks, dermatoscopy | No | Yes |
| Botox and fillers | No (no medical training) | Yes |
| Laser hair removal | Often, with training | Yes |
| Prescription medicines (Roaccutan etc.) | No | Yes |
When to see a beautician
- Classic facials (cleansing, hydration).
- Manicures, pedicures, lash extensions.
- Surface peels (AHA, mandelic acid).
- Ordinary skin maintenance and care.
When to see a dermatologist
- Acne that does not clear up with home care or beautician treatments.
- New or changing moles.
- Unusual rashes, itching.
- Chronic redness, rosacea.
- Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis.
- Hair loss (alopecia).
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
- Before any more serious aesthetic procedure (laser, peel).
When a cosmetic dermatologist or an aesthetic doctor
- Botox, lip filler, dermal fillers (mesofilling).
- Deep peels (TCA 30%+).
- HIFU, SMAS, RF face lifting.
- Fractional laser treatment.
- PRP (the vampire facial).
- Chemical filler refreshes and bio-stimulating injections.
Health insurance aspects
Through the Health Insurance Fund (Haigekassa):
- A dermatologist appointment with a family doctor's referral carries a 5–15 € co-payment.
- The problem must be medical in nature (a disease, not an aesthetic concern).
- Treatment itself (tablets, ointments) — you get a prescription.
At a private clinic (without health insurance):
- Dermatologist appointment: 50–120 €.
- Aesthetic dermatologist consultation: 65–150 €.
Finding a dermatologist in Estonia
The larger dermatology clinics in Estonia:
- Tallinn: Derma-kliinik, Lääne-Tallinna Kliinikum, private clinics such as Medemis and ProAge.
- Tartu: SA Tartu Ülikooli Kliinikum (dermatology department), private clinics.
- Pärnu: SA Pärnu Haigla, a handful of private dermatologists.
Where to go next
- Beauty clinic vs beauty salon
- Acne treatment in Estonia — cosmetic and medical options
- How to choose a beauty clinic
- All facial-treatment providers
- The full directory of beauty clinics
Korduma kippuvad küsimused
When should I see a dermatologist rather than a beautician?▼
Persistent skin problems (acne, rosacea, psoriasis), new or changing moles, allergic reactions, unusual rashes. In short — whenever it is a disease rather than an aesthetic concern.
Is a cosmetic dermatologist the same thing as a beautician?▼
No. A cosmetic dermatologist is a doctor (6–8 years of university plus residency) who has specialised in aesthetic medicine. A beautician is a vocationally trained specialist (1–3 years).
Does health insurance cover dermatologist visits?▼
With a family doctor's referral, yes. Without a referral you have to book a paid appointment (35–80 €). A paid appointment at a private clinic costs 50–120 € in Tallinn.
How much does a dermatologist appointment cost in Estonia?▼
A paid private dermatologist in Tallinn costs 50–120 €. A consultation with an aesthetic (spa) dermatologist costs 65–150 €. Through health insurance — a 5–10 € co-payment.