Both cosmetologists and estheticians work overlap in many ways. But the difference is that a cosmetologist deals with skin, hair, and nails, but an esthetician focuses only on ways to improve and maintain your skin. Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, LED light therapy, eyelash extension, etc., are some of the things done by estheticians. While a cosmetologist cuts hair, chemically treats hair, performs skin and hair analysis, and chemical hair removal.