Is a dermatologist better than a medical spa for Botox?

Author: Mariam Dickinson  |  Last update: Saturday, July 5, 2025

Medical spas have great licensed professionals to meet many of your cosmetic needs. But, when it comes to injections, diagnosing your condition, or dealing with the cause of a cosmetic issue, opt for the dermatologist.

Should I go to a dermatologist or medical spa for Botox?

Answer: Botox can be done equally well by plastic surgeons and dermatologists You should go to the most experienced Botox injector for your treatment, whether it's a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist. Both types of physicians typically have a vast experience with the product and know how much and where to inject.

What type of doctor is best for Botox?

Dermatologists. Plastic surgeons and dermatologists have considerable cross-over—both specialties provide Botox injections, other neuromodulators, dermal fillers, and various non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Dermatologists generally have a better understanding of skin functionality and physiology.

Is a dermatologist a good place to get Botox?

Both Board Certified Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons are considered Core Specialists for treating with Fillers and Botox. However, the most important factor is to be treated by a Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon, who has a great deal of technical expertise and experience.

Is it better to go to a dermatologist or esthetician?

Dermatologists, being medical professionals, handle various skin conditions, while estheticians focus on skincare treatments. For issues like acne, skin discoloration, and spider veins, consulting a dermatologist may provide a more comprehensive medical approach.

How to Get Rid of Sagging Jowls from a Dermatologist! | Dr. Shereene Idriss

Can an esthetician do Botox?

Although estheticians cannot give Botox injections, many alternatives to Botox can be provided by estheticians and fall within their scope of practice. You can choose one of these alternatives as a stand-alone option or get these treatments in conjunction with Botox to make the effects last longer.

Should I see a dermatologist or esthetician for hyperpigmentation?

If you're on a seeking to build a skincare routine, address acne, resolve other surface-level skin issues like hyperpigmentation and scarring, or simply enrich the overall appearance of your skin, an esthetician is your guiding star.

Is it okay to get Botox at a med spa?

Med spa regulations differ from state to state—some allow only physicians, physician assistants, or nurses to administer Botox, for example, while others are more lenient—so it's important to make sure you're seeing a licensed medical professional with plenty of experience (more on that below), Dr. Garshick notes.

Is Botox more expensive at a dermatologist?

The education and experience levels of your dermatologist can affect your total Botox price, as a more experienced dermatologist may cost more. This is a good thing, as an expert dermatologist has a better understanding of how Botox will affect your facial structure as opposed to a spa technician or esthetician.

Do dermatologists do lip flips?

While lip flips are a perfectly safe (and popular) procedure, this treatment is considered off-label by the FDA. This makes it especially important to have them performed by skilled cosmetic dermatologists and providers.

Is it better to get Botox from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon?

Contact a Dermatology provider near you

Botox should only be done by qualified healthcare professionals, such as our dermatological providers at the California Dermatological Institute, to ensure safe and effective outcomes.

What are the top 3 areas for Botox?

“Typically, the three main treatment areas for Botox are the Glabella, the forehead and Crow's feet and they all have their own specific Botox injection patterns. “The Glabella (more commonly known as the frown line) contains a group of muscles which contract when a person furrows their brow.

Who to trust for Botox?

Professionals such as physicians, surgeons, dentists, physician assistants, registered nurses, and nurse technicians are all commonly licensed to administer Botox. When considering who to go to for Botox injections, ask the clinic who will be in charge of performing the treatment.

What is the difference between a med spa and a dermatologist?

The primary difference between a dermatology practice and a med spa is the role of the doctor and their involvement in the cosmetic or aesthetic range of treatments. A med spa is a facility offering non-surgical treatments supervised by a licensed medical doctor.

How do I choose a Botox doctor?

You should check if someone is a registered doctor or surgeon on the General Medical Council online register. Some surgeons have a cosmetic surgery certificate from the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS). This means they've been assessed and they meet an agreed national standard.

Does insurance cover Botox at dermatologist?

Because Botox is widely considered a cosmetic procedure, it is most commonly a self-pay option for patients. However, you can receive coverage if you establish medical necessity for treatment.

How much do 20 units of Botox cover?

Your Guide to Botox Injections

According to Allergan's guidelines, the following units should be given: Crow's Feet – 10 to 12 Botox Units per eye (2 eyes would mean 20 to 24 units) Frown Lines – 20 Botox Units. Forehead lines – 20 Botox Units.

What is the best alternative to Botox?

Below are 10 alternatives to BOTOX® that might help if you're seeking smoother or firmer skin on your face.
  • Cosmetic Acupuncture. ...
  • Microneedling. ...
  • Chemical Peels. ...
  • Laser Therapy. ...
  • Cryotherapy. ...
  • Facial Creams. ...
  • Neuropeptides. ...
  • Face Patches.

Are med spas trustworthy?

Med spas should be overseen by a physician on a day-to-day basis. While some may only have physician oversight on paper, you should choose a medspa with a physician who is onsite to review your medical history, monitor your treatment plans, and care for you should a complication occur.

Where should you not get Botox?

Let's dive in below on some of the areas that are considered danger zones for getting Botox injections.
  • Chin or Around the Mouth: Precision is Key. ...
  • Orbicularis Oculi Muscle: Avoid The Wrong Spots.
  • Frontalis Muscle: Correct Placement is Vital. ...
  • Upper Skin Layer: A Pointless Place for Injections.

What is the difference between cosmetic Botox and medical Botox?

The only difference between them is how they are administered and what purpose they serve. With cosmetic Botox, small injections are made into specific facial muscles in order to relax them and reduce wrinkles. On the other hand, medical Botox is used for treating conditions such as muscle spasms and chronic migraines.

Does insurance cover dermatology?

Dermatology can be split into two broad categories: medical and cosmetic. Insurance usually covers medical dermatology, because it is related to the health of your skin. Cosmetic dermatology services aren't necessary to stay healthy, so you typically have to pay for them yourself.

What does dermatologist recommend for pigmentation?

Topical therapies
  • Hydroquinone. Topical HQ is regarded as the gold standard for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation. ...
  • Retinoids. ...
  • Azelaic acid. ...
  • Kojic acid. ...
  • Tranexamic acid. ...
  • Cysteamine. ...
  • Cosmeceuticals.

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