What types of cosmetology are there and how do they differ?
You open one website and there are three types of cosmetology. Another has five. Some laser procedures are listed as hardware procedures, while others have a separate line. And instead of a simple answer, you get the feeling that everyone has their own opinion.
In fact, the confusion is understandable. The different types of cosmetology depend on the criteria used to classify them: the method of treatment, the purpose of the procedure, or the degree of intervention. Therefore, it's better to understand the principles rather than memorize lists.
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Why are types of cosmetology classified differently on different websites?
Consider a regular peel. It could be considered a skincare treatment, given its intended purpose. It could be categorized according to its method of action. And if we're talking about a specific technology, another classification would emerge.
That's why the types of cosmetology on different websites do not always match.
The word "hardware-based" refers primarily to how the treatment is performed: using equipment. "Injectable" also describes the method: the medication is administered through the skin. And "aesthetic" speaks more to the goal: improving the appearance and condition of the skin.
It turns out that some names seem to be next to each other, although they answer different questions. Hence the different patterns.
Main types of cosmetology
If we remove the professional details, clients most often encounter several concepts: aesthetic and care, hardware, injection, laser, and medical cosmetology.
These aren't five closed boxes. Categories can overlap. Therefore, it's more convenient to think of the main types of cosmetology as a map that helps you understand the methods, rather than a rigid list to memorize.
Aesthetic and skin care cosmetology
Aesthetic cosmetology is a broad concept. It encompasses work on the appearance and condition of the skin. Skincare cosmetology is typically associated with cleansing, superficial peels, masks, massage, and other skincare procedures.
But the word "care" itself doesn't answer the question of what exactly is right for your skin. Two treatments can fall into the same category and address completely different concerns.
Therefore, when choosing, it is more useful to look not at the beautiful title of the section, but at the purpose of the procedure and the method of action.
Hardware cosmetology
The clue is already in the title: the cosmetologist uses equipment.
The devices can utilize ultrasound, radiofrequency energy, vacuum, microcurrents, and other physical factors. Because of this, hardware cosmetology itself is further subdivided into numerous methods.
The key is not to confuse the group with the result. The word "hardware" doesn't automatically mean "rejuvenating" or "for problem skin." It primarily describes what and how the procedure is performed.
Injection cosmetology
Here the unifying feature is different: the drug is administered by injection.
Injectable methods can include mesotherapy, biorevitalization, botulinum therapy, and other procedures. They differ in composition, objectives, and mode of action, so the term "injectable cosmetology" refers to a broad group of procedures rather than a single procedure.
That's why comparing it to hardware based on the "which is better" principle isn't entirely accurate. First, you need to understand what problem you're trying to solve.
Laser cosmetology
Laser treatments are especially easy to get confused about.
Lasers operate using equipment, so it's logical to classify them as hardware-based methods. However, there are many laser technologies and applications, and some clinics consider them a separate category.
Both options are common in practice. There's no contradiction here: one site simply displays a large group, while the other displays a subset of it separately.
Medical cosmetology
With medical cosmetology, the situation is different. Here, it's not just a matter of the method of treatment, but the medical context of the procedures and the specialist's qualifications.
Therefore, don't equate "medical" with "laser" just because both phrases end in "cosmetology." They describe the topic from different perspectives.
It is precisely these intersections that create the feeling that the directions of cosmetology are constantly changing from site to site.
What is the difference between hardware cosmetology and injection cosmetology?
The difference is simpler than it seems.
Hardware cosmetology uses equipment and various physical factors. Injectables are administered through the skin.
But here comes the most important part. These directions cannot be honestly compared by simply asking the question: "Which is better?"
It's like asking which is healthier—cream or shampoo. The answer depends on what you're planning to do.
Before choosing, the following are usually important:
- what problem is bothering you, what is the condition of your skin and how pronounced are the changes;
- How is the procedure performed, are there any restrictions, and is a recovery period required?
- Is it possible to combine the chosen method with other procedures?
Therefore, a good consultation begins with the problem, not with the name of a trendy technique.
What is the difference between a type of cosmetology and a type of cosmetic procedure?
This is where two similar concepts are often confused.
Hardware cosmetology is a specialty. Microcurrent therapy is a specific procedure within this specialty.
The same is true for injection cosmetology: it is a group of methods, while biorevitalization or botulinum therapy are separate procedures.
Therefore, the types of cosmetic procedures and the types of cosmetology itself are not the same thing.
This distinction seems like a small thing, but it makes long lists on websites much clearer.
What cosmetic procedures belong to different areas?
Treatments may include cleansing, superficial peels, masks, and massage. Hardware-based cosmetology includes microcurrent, ultrasound, and radiofrequency techniques. Injectable cosmetology includes mesotherapy, biorevitalization, and botulinum therapy.
But the same procedure can be described in different ways at the same time.
For example, a hardware procedure, in terms of its method of action, can simultaneously be rejuvenating in its purpose. These are not two different procedures. They are simply viewed from two perspectives.
This is why the question “which category does this belong to?” sometimes has several normal answers.
How to understand which direction of cosmetology is suitable for your needs
It's a familiar situation: a friend has had a procedure, loved the results, and wants to schedule the same. But a similar problem doesn't necessarily mean the same method.
First, it's best to formulate what exactly is bothering you. Dryness? Uneven texture? Fine lines? Pigmentation? Changes in skin density?
After this, it is easier to discuss suitable options.
Conventionally, the path looks like this:
- First, define the problem and the expected outcome;
- then understand what groups of methods are generally used for such a task;
- After that, compare specific procedures, their limitations and recovery.
So the choice ceases to be a lottery of beautiful names.
What to consider before choosing a cosmetic procedure
The high frequency of the word "microcurrent" or the popularity of a method on social media does not make it right for you.
A procedure's promised effect is not the only consideration. The method of application, contraindications, skin condition, recovery requirements, and the ability to combine the method with existing treatments are also important.
Be especially wary of statements like "suitable for everyone," "completely safe," or "the most effective method." In cosmetology, there are too many individual factors to make such blanket promises.
You don't need to understand all the technical jargon. If after reading this article you understand why "hardware" and "rejuvenation" aren't two competing categories within the same classification, then the hardest part is already over.
Frequently asked questions about types of cosmetology
What are the main types of cosmetology?
The most common types of cosmetology are aesthetic and skincare, hardware-based, injection-based, and medical. Laser methods may be classified separately or as hardware-based, depending on the classification principle.
How does hardware cosmetology differ from injection cosmetology?
Method of administration. The treatment room uses equipment and relevant technologies, while the injection room administers medications by injection.
Why do different websites classify types of cosmetology differently?
Because one list can be built according to the method of influence, another – according to the purpose of the procedure, and a third combines several principles at once.
Is laser cosmetology a separate field or part of the equipment industry?
Both options exist. Since laser procedures are performed using equipment, they can be classified as hardware-based. However, due to the large number of laser technologies, they are often classified separately.
How does a type of cosmetology differ from a type of cosmetology procedure?
A type of cosmetology is a broader group of methods. A procedure is a specific intervention within this group.
How do you know which area of cosmetology is best suited to a specific need?
First, you need to determine the specific problem and skin condition, and then compare the methods used in this situation. Age or popularity of the procedure alone do not determine the choice.
Is it possible to combine different cosmetology methods?
Some procedures are combined, but there is no universal scheme for all methods. Compatibility and sequence depend on specific procedures and individual limitations.