Not All Med Spas are Created Equal

By Mary Brooks, ARNP Couture Med Spa Winter Park

Like many people in the world today, you may be looking for ways to turn back the hands of time. You may wish to look younger and rejuvenated and why not? If it makes you feel beautiful, do it! In fact, there has been a massive increase in the demand for less invasive cosmetic treatments over the last 10 years.

This increase in demand has also led to a surge in the number of medical spas opening worldwide. A medspa is a combination of an aesthetic medical center and a day spa that provides non-surgical, aesthetic medical services under the supervision of a licensed physician.

However, you want to be careful when choosing which med spa you go to. After all, beautiful, younger-looking skin requires commitment, not a miracle.

Here are some tips to help guide you through your med spa selection process:

LOOK UP THE SUPERVISING PHYSICIAN AND STAFF

Requirements for supervising physicians may vary by state. But like most aesthetic specialists, I would recommend ensuring that the supervising physician is a board-certified plastic surgeon. Plastic surgeons are trained not only in surgical procedures, but nonsurgical treatments as well.

Having a clinician who has been well trained in aesthetics will be most beneficial in the long run and they will be able to appropriately guide you to the best treatment that is right for your needs.

In addition to staff with specific titles, select a medical spa that has notable experience in providing the treatment you desire. This may include special certifications, awards, or years in the practice. An experienced staff is more likely to provide the results you are looking for.

FEEL OUT THE PEOPLE AND SPACE

Not all med spas are created equal and not all aesthetic clinicians are equally skilled. Each medical spa offers unique procedures and skin care treatments. It is important to understand that there are aesthetic specialists, specialized training, and accredited certifications behind each type of treatment.

It’s okay to ask your clinician about their education and training to ensure that you are making the right decision for your needs. Asking questions will also give you a feel for the staff’s personality and if you would like to work with them.

You should also make consultations at several spas, not just one. Visiting more than one medical spa for a cosmetic consultation will allow you to get a feel for the spa, clinician, staff, and treatment equipment. You want to ensure you’ll be in an environment that makes you feel comfortable. Finally, don’t forget to check out their treatment menu beforehand to be sure they offer the treatment you are looking for.

RESEARCH THE EQUIPMENT

Many of the treatments provided by med spas can be costly. Mainly because the equipment they use is expensive. Plus, there are a countless amount of different lasers and cosmetic product lines used throughout the industry.

Because technology in the aesthetic and medical field is constantly changing, it is important to make sure any med spa you visit is using the latest and greatest equipment for your specific treatment. You want to get your money’s worth. Having knowledge of these different lasers and products will make your decision easier when it comes time to choose a location.

Choosing a medical spa is an important decision that should not be taken lightly, but these tips can help you make the best choice when you are ready to take the leap because your beauty is worth investing in.

READ CLIENT REVIEWS AND TESTIMONIALS

Before deciding to proceed with any cosmetic treatment, you should ask to see other patient’s real results. A worthy medical spa will provide you with before and after images.

You should also ask around, research online, and seek testimonials from others who have visited the same med spa you are interested in. This will help you get real information and opinions from individuals who have received the treatments you are interested in. To make things easier, we provide you with video testimonials from happy patients.