Skin therapist or dermatologist? Who does what for acne

With acne you can turn to different professionals, which can make choosing confusing. The short answer: the dermatologist makes the diagnosis and treats medically, the skin therapist treats the skin and guides you. They complement each other, and often you work with both.

Written by the 247dermatologist editorial team, medically reviewed by dr. A.M. van Coevorden, dermatologist

Reviewed on 30 July 2026± 3 min read

BIG

What a dermatologist does

A dermatologist is a medical specialist. They determine exactly what is going on, assess how high the risk of scarring is, and draw up a medical treatment plan. Where needed, that includes a prescription. With us this happens online: upload photos, and within 12 to 48 hours you have the assessment of a BIG-registered dermatologist, without a referral.

What a skin therapist does

A skin therapist is a paramedic with a legally protected title and a professional degree. They treat the skin itself: think of deep cleansing, chemical peels, scar treatment and guidance on your skincare. A skin therapist does not make a medical diagnosis and does not prescribe medication, but often works together with a doctor. No referral is needed, and many supplementary insurance policies partly cover skin therapy.

When to go where

Start with the dermatologist when you are not sure what it is, when the acne is inflamed or painful, or when marks or pits remain. First a diagnosis and a treatment plan; that prevents months of trying the wrong product.

The skin therapist is strong in the phase alongside and after: support during the medical treatment, and treating scars or pigment spots once the acne is calm. The combination is most common in practice: the dermatologist's plan, the skin therapist's hands and guidance.

With us too

Good to know: 247dermatologist also has a skin therapist on the team. Questions about skincare, scars or the right next step are welcome with us as well. That way you get medical and skin therapy advice from one team.

Not sure what your skin needs?

Start with an assessment. Within 12 to 48 hours you know what it is and what the logical next step is.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral for a skin therapist?

No. A skin therapist is directly accessible. You do not need a referral for our online dermatologist consultation either.

Is skin therapy reimbursed?

Often partly, through supplementary insurance. This differs per policy; check your conditions or ask your insurer.

Can the dermatologist refer me to a skin therapist?

Yes. If skin therapy is a logical next step, for example for scars, that advice will be in your treatment plan.

Sources

NVDV
Dutch Association of Skin Therapists

Last revised on 30 July 2026

Have a dermatologist take a look

Upload photos and your symptoms. A BIG-registered dermatologist writes a treatment plan within 12 to 48 hours.