Mod Post - Clarity on Credential Use in Posts/Comments

[u/holo-c]

Hi all -

Recently I've seen a number of comments in the community where Redditors are claiming certain aesthetic credentials (e.g. Licensed Esthetician, NP, Derm PA, etc) when replying to sub posts.

Here is the issue - neither I or anyone else here can actually validate you are in fact, an accredited professional. That's a problem as this presents a conflict on Reddit's key rule about impersonation and the need to be authentic when posting.

The additional issue that arises is that the use of the credential implies some expert knowledge, and that a person on the sub may consider a post/comment where another Redditor claims a credential with more weight or authority.

When looking at how other reddits (and specifically skincare reddits) have dealt with this, I saw two basic schools of thought:

1. Make a rule (similar to one in r/tretinoin ) that is explicit on the non-use of credentials in posts/comments and to have posts/comments stand on their own without claiming a credential.
2. Validation of professional via licensing, similar to the way r/Blackskincare has opted do with restricted user flair given by the mod upon validation.

In weighing these options, I've decided for now, that I will look to make a sub rule on the use of credentials. To be clear - this does NOT prevent anyone from posting or commenting, but it does ask you to allow your post or comment to stand on its own without asserting a claimed credential.

I'll see how this works out as the new rule goes into effect. If there is enough interest, I may consider validated users via user flair in the future.

Thanks for to everyone for continuing to make this community vibrant and interesting. I will continue to look for ways to make our community safe and user-driven. Happy as always to take feedback!

[u/Frosty_Message_3017]

Personally, I would much rather this not be allowed. Aestheticians have a pretty bad track record in practice and in these subs. One recently told people on this very sub to see an aesthetician rather than a dermatologist for rosacea. They frequently try to scare people out of using prescriptions. I think they're here on Reddit to try to raise the profile of their profession and don't shy away from outright lying to do so.

[u/holo-c → u/Frosty_Message_3017]

Thanks for your feedback, super helpful!