What Is a Med Spa? Speciality Aesthetic Treatments Done Professionally

 For those looking to combine the results-driven services from medical practitioners with the relaxing and rejuvenating treatment you receive at a standard spa, medical spas are just what the doctor prescribed. Today we'll be going over what constitutes a med spa, what services you may find there, as well as how a med spa compares to a standard day spa. 

What is a med spa?

Medical spas, more commonly known as med spas, are establishments where both rejuvenation and medical-grade service come together to provide significant results without the standard downtime of surgical procedures. This combination of skincare and medical practice brings results that are tailored specifically to each client's skincare needs. 

Do med spas require special licensing?

Yes! Opening a spa that provides more medical-grade services will require both a medical license and a business license in order to operate. Generally each treatment or service is overseen by a board certified medical professional. 

Either a nurse, physician, or a licensed dermatologist perform or oversee each service provided to meet regulatory guidelines.

What are the benefits of med spas?

When it comes to the benefits of using a med spa, there are a few positives that are worth noting. Firstly, due to the presence of a medical professional, the use of and access to professional-grade products are often a significant contributing factor to why customers choose a med spa over a standard spa. 

Additionally, med spas truly focus on skincare and the overall health of your skin instead of simply relying on name brand products to provide results. Lastly, the presence of a licensed medical professional means that skin and health concerns can be individually addressed with a custom treatment plan made specifically for each individual client.  

What kind of clients do med spas serve?

The clientele associated with medical spas can range from individuals looking for simple anti-aging services, to those hoping to receive significant, nonsurgical aesthetic or cosmetic changes.

Medical spas and their services can be tailored to meet the needs of almost anyone looking to improve the health of their skin or even those hoping to lose weight and gain control of their hormones. 

Med spas vs day spas

Now that we have a brief understanding of what med spas are, let’s take a moment to delve in a little deeper and see what each offers when comparing the two.

Types of services offered

While both types of spas offer facials and chemical peels, it boils down to the strength and effectiveness associated with each service. Med spas often offer the same types of treatments as a day spa, but with additional services that include medical treatments such as injectables and hormone therapies. 

Medical vs non-medical background

Since a med spa combines the knowledge base of both licensed estheticians as well as nurses and sometimes even plastic surgeons, there is going to be more of a medically geared background and knowledge based over a holistic / alternative medicine approach to skincare products and bodily healing. 

Non-invasive vs invasive treatment options

Non surgical skin care therapies are offered at both types of establishments; however, medical spas can provide minimally invasive treatments on top of their non-invasive services. These minimally invasive treatments can range from injectables to laser therapies for those looking for dramatic results with minimal downtime. 

What types of treatments does a med spa offer?

While med spas may be famous for a handful of notable services, you might be surprised to learn that the offerings of your local med spa may be more comprehensive than you were initially aware of. 

Botox, fillers, and injectables

Receiving Dysport or Botox, fillers, and other injectables are probably one of the most well known forms of a service that a med spa tends to provide. This type of treatment caters to those looking to reduce or remove the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and also helps to restore volume and smoothness to the desired area(s) of the body. 

Clinical skincare

Clinical skin care is also a staple service within the realm of med spa treatments. Those suffering from chronic acne, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and signs of aging often find reprieve with the help of clinical skincare. These customized treatments target problem skin with the goal of a healthy, renewed complexion on a medical level. 

Laser treatments

For those looking to go a step or two above clinical skincare, laser treatments are also a wonderful way to address common skincare concerns. This use of technology is routinely utilized to reduce the appearance of scarring, lighten discoloration, and even encourage cell turnover to produce fresh, healthy skin.  

Laser services can also include laser hair removal and even tattoo removals at some establishments. 

Weight loss treatments

Individuals hoping to lose a few pounds will find that some med spa treatments include services such as cool sculpting. These treatments help freeze and dispel fat cells without harming the surrounding tissue, allowing patients to lose weight rapidly. 

Hormone replacement therapy

Lastly, individuals may be able to locate a medical spa facility that offers hormone therapy. An imbalance in hormones can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. With the assistance of a medical professional, hormone therapy can be prescribed in order to help those regain a sense of balance, leveling out their mood and improving their overall health and wellbeing.  

Explore your career options as an esthetician with Bosses in Beauty!

Hoping to open up your own medical spa? Looking to expand or elevate your career within the beauty industry? Bosses in Beauty has the tools, skillset, and expertise you need to build that rewarding career you’ve always dreamed of!

We’re here to provide the best education and information to current and future estheticians around the globe. Visit our website for more information about resources available to you and explore our six-figure esthetician program to jump start your career!