Where to Start Your Med Spa Journey
More and more people are refusing to go under the knife and instead are opting for safer, quicker medical spa (or med spa) procedures when it comes to the health and look of their skin. As a result, the med spa field has genuinely taken off in the last few years, creating a $17.5 billion industry. With more and more facilities popping up, it’s much more important to research the best location near you with safety and expertise in mind. Here is your guide to what med spas offer, red flags to look out for, and how to get started on your med spa journey to get the safest and most effective treatments.
Understanding different med spa treatments
Med spa facilities offer non-surgical, medical-grade aesthetic procedures that are performed in a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere. A great alternative to plastic surgery, med spa treatments have gained popularity due to their effectiveness, low recovery time, and immediate results. If you are looking to improve the look and health of your skin, below is a look at some of the most popular med spa treatments.
Injectables (Botox and fillers)
Injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers are very popular, especially among those over 30. Using a thin needle, Botox and dermal fillers help fill in wrinkles and fine lines, creating a smooth, contoured look. Botox relaxes the facial muscles (not freezes), while fillers help to plump and rejuvenate smile and frown lines, crow’s feet, cheek contour, and more. This is great for all skin types and those noticing signs of aging.
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- Related article: New To Fillers And Botox? Find Out Which One Is Right For You!
Laser treatments
Whether you’re looking for permanent hair removal or a refreshed, younger complexion, laser treatments are a great way to revitalize the appearance of your skin. Suitable for those with hyperpigmentation, age spots, or rosacea, laser technology helps restore a more youthful look. These treatments are suitable for most age types.
- Related article: Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal Treatments
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Chemical peels
Chemical peels are skin-resurfacing procedures. They remove one to several layers of the skin and treat it with chemicals, improving the texture and tone while removing fine lines and wrinkles. Here at Skin Savvy, we offer a gentler alternative: MicroLaserPeel, which uses laser technology to help smooth the surface of the skin, without the use of chemicals. Chemical peels and laser therapy are fit for any age.
- Related article: Chemical Peel vs. Laser Peel: What’s the Difference?
Microneedling
Also known as collagen injection therapy, microneedling creates micro-punctures in the skin using very tiny needles to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, large pores, uneven skin tone, and the skin’s overall appearance. It’s great for all skin types and is safe for any age.
- Related article: How Effective is Skin Needling for Acne Scars?
- Related article: Can Microneedling Remove Blackheads?
Choosing the right med spa
When it comes to caring for the health of your skin, consider taking the same precautions you would when searching for a regular doctor or healthcare practitioner. Although used for aesthetics, standard credentials and expertise must be involved when choosing the right med spa.
Researching facilities
Do your due diligence in researching the best med spa facilities in your area. Carefully look at websites and check online reviews and before and after photos from previous clients — you want to make sure you trust the med spa you’re working with.
Credentials and expertise
Look for med spas with a supervising physician on staff, and make sure they’re involved in the facility. In most states, this is legally required. Research the expertise level of the aestheticians, nurses, or doctors who are performing your treatment as well. You want your esthetician to be thoroughly experienced and knowledgeable so you get the best service possible.
Consultations
Although you won’t be going under the knife at med spas, many of the treatments offered involve a certain level of expertise, knowledge, and precision, and you’ll want to be able to ask the physician or aesthetician what treatment is right for you. Seek out facilities that offer free consultations, where you can discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have.
Environment and customer service
Excellent customer service and a clean, inviting environment are non-negotiables regarding med spas. You want to feel safe, at ease, and welcomed before, during, and after your treatment. Before booking an appointment, carefully scour online reviews and visit spas in person so you feel secure with your decision.
Red flags to watch out for
There are top-notch med spas out there, and then there are facilities that may not have the best intentions. Be on the lookout for:
- Pressure sales tactics: If you feel rushed or pressured into buying expensive treatments, look elsewhere. A legitimate med spa wants you to take your time, ask questions, and feel comfortable booking the best treatments for you.
- A lack of an online presence: It’s important to research a med spa’s website, reviews, and photos of the staff and facility. If you can’t find much online, that may be a cause for concern.
- Negative reviews: Be cautious if a med spa has poor to average reviews, or reviews that are inconsistent.
- Unlicensed or untrained staff: This is absolutely one of the most important things to look out for: a lack of experienced or credentialed staff. Verify staff credentials through their website or through your state’s licensing board, if you’re unsure.
- Poor hygienic practices: This is where visiting the spa in-person before booking is a wise choice. Assess the cleanliness of the waiting room, bathroom, and the overall atmosphere. Look for reviews that state the cleanliness and professionalism of the facility and ask staff what hygienic practices are used.
- A lack of follow-up after treatments: Any good physician or aesthetician will follow up with you after a treatment or provide post-treatment services. Be sure to ask staff about this before booking.
- Unrealistic promises: If a med spa promises dramatic changes in your looks or boasts about miracle cures, be cautious. Reputable med spas will discuss realistic expectations with you, as well as any potential side effects from treatments.
Which treatments to start with
If you’ve never had cosmetic treatments done, it’s best to start slowly. Begin your med spa journey with less invasive treatments, such as facials or mild peels. Schedule a consultation and chat with the physician or aesthetician about where it’s best to start. They will take your medical history, skin health, and more into account, tailoring a treatment plan specific to your needs.
Preparing for your first visit
After you’ve vetted the facility and staff of your med spa, now it’s time to prepare for treatment! Arrive 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork, wear comfortable clothing, and arrive with clean, makeup-free skin. Don’t be shy to ask as many questions as you need before, during, and after your procedure, and ensure your aesthetician gives plenty of after-care treatment instructions.
Pro tip: Stay hydrated before, during, and after your appointment.
Get started at Skin Savvy
If you’re ready to consult about med spa treatments, our expert medical team at Skin Savvy Aesthetics in Scottsdale, Arizona, is ready to help you achieve your goals. We provide consultations to discuss your medical history and your aesthetic desires to help you achieve the results you’re looking for. Book your consultation today with our highly trained staff — we would love to show you around our facility.