By Madilyn Moeller, Marketing Content Coordinator, American Med Spa Association (AmSpa)

As the medical aesthetic profession grows, you might see more aesthetic practices popping up in your area and think to yourself “how do I know a med spa is safe?” Medical spas are frequented by reality stars and celebrities, but they also cater to the everyday American looking for rejuvenation, aging prevention or simply a confidence boost.

If you are already interested in medical spa treatments, you know that influencers and news outlets are quick to share adverse reactions, which might make you hesitate before choosing a new med spa. How do you find out whether a medical spa will provide a safe experience, and what questions should you be asking a potential provider?

Below, hear from several expert practitioners on what they look for in a safe practitioner, how they keep their patients safe, and what you should know before you book your next treatment.

• How to Research a Med Spa
• Supervision and Licensure
• Proper Consultations
• Identifying a Clean, Safe Med Spa
• Steps of a Safe Med Spa Visit
• Post-treatment Follow-up
• Patient Care and Relationships
• Medical Spa Red Flags
• First Med Spa Visit
• Key Takeaways for Aesthetic Patients

Meet the Aesthetic Practitioners:

• Leslie Fletcher, MSN, RN, AGNP-BC, Owner of InjectAbility Clinic and InjectAbility Institute
• Rana Kennelly, MSN, AGNP-C, CANS, Founder of The Confidence Bar and The Confidence Lab
• Lauren Olson, PA-C, Owner of Radiance Medical Aesthetics and Wellness
• Linette Rivera, MD, Owner of Glanz Aesthetics
• Sarah Safa, MS, PA-C, Founder of Refined Aesthetics and Faculty at Academy for Injection Anatomy (AIA)
• Dani Sher, PA-C, Founder of Sparkle Aesthetics
• Ken Winnard, MD, Founder of OneLife Health & Performance

What do you look for when researching a medical spa?

Leslie Fletcher: “When researching a medical spa, aside from word-of-mouth referral from trusted sources, reviews may be at the top of the list for finding out other patient’s level of satisfaction and for getting a better idea of what type of experience you may have yourself. Other things to look for are a user-friendly and up-to-date website with standardized before and after images, and an individualized “About Us” section. It is your right to read about the injector you may end up seeing. So many websites don’t list out individual biographies of each injector, only the owner. 

“In addition to the website, their social channels should hold the same branding as the website, and that brand feel should follow you into the front door of the clinic. Additionally, when you call to make your appointment make sure the front of house is friendly and knowledgeable.” 

Rana Kennelly: “When researching a medical spa, it's essential to do your homework first. Start by reading Google reviews, exploring the spa's website, and understanding the philosophy of the practice. Always check the credentials and experience of the aesthetic practitioners. A reputable spa should offer a complimentary consultation with no pressure to proceed with treatment or buy anything – they should value giving education freely. The gold standard review is also word of mouth, so ask experiences of other people who have received treatment there. But nothing can beat your own in-person feel once you are in the practice. This is where you will gauge your comfort level and come with a prepared list of questions. Pay attention to how you're greeted by the staff and their demeanor – do they seem happy to work there? A positive work culture where every employee truly enjoys coming into the practice speaks volumes! What is the culture and the feeling that the website, reviews, and being in the practice give you? Do you feel cared for from the very first second you stepped into the practice? There are so many different ways to research a medical spa, but the most important is seeing it for yourself and asking yourself how you feel after you leave.”

Lauren Olson: “If searching for a medical spa on the internet, research the providers offering the service. Be wary if there is no provider information. This could mean that they have high turnover or that those providing the services are not licensed. Bios of the providers should provide their education, years of experience and any recognitions or awards. Reviews and before and after pictures are valuable. If you are super diligent, you can go to the state licensing websites to see if the providers are licensed and if there are any complaints against them.”

Dr. Linette Rivera: “When researching for a medical spa, patients should research the providers associated with the medical spa, proper licensure and how they value safety. It is important to attend a consultation to look at the spa, get to know the provider and make sure you feel connected to the person that will perform the treatment. Having all your questions answered is key to obtaining great results.”

Sarah Safa: “Word of mouth is helpful; however, patients should take the time to research and choose a reputable aesthetic practice to help ensure they receive safe and effective care. Some important factors include the qualifications and credentials of the medical provider, assuring the provider has extensive experience in the specific procedures they require. Reading recent reviews and reviewing testimonials from previous patients with consistent positive feedback and successful outcomes can also be reassuring.”

Dani Sher: “Look at a medspa’s About page. Do they have a board certified medical director with applicable expertise? You want to know that a medspa has oversight by someone who isn't just a paid physician with no relevant expertise. How much experience do the injectors have? What trainings and education have they sought out? Also, look at their Google reviews! A good medspa will have lots of 5-star reviews. Another great place for research is neighborhood Facebook groups where people will chat about their honest experiences about a place.”

Dr. Ken Winnard: “When researching a medical spa, the most important thing I look for is the practitioners and their credentials. You always want to make sure that everyone performing procedures is licensed to do so. Next, I look for experience level and injection technique. Bad reviews can happen every now and then, but an excess of bad reviews is a major red flag. I would ask questions about which products the facility uses, if they take before and after photos, and if they offer follow-ups for all aesthetic appointments.”

What level of supervision and licensure should the patient see in their practitioners?

Fletcher: “At the heart of medical aesthetics is professionalism. Aesthetic medicine is medicine, and this should be portrayed throughout the entire patient journey starting from the social channels, through the website and live with the providers. Medical practitioners should be able to prove their adequate training and proficiency in the field. Patients should have a proper health and history exam to determine if they are a good candidate for treatment. Proper standard operating procedures (SOPs) should be upheld that are supported by evidence-based medicine. Neuromodulators and dermal fillers are prescription products and require a diagnosis and prescription that is specific to the severity of the diagnosis. This may be done through SOPs but they need to be performed nonetheless.” 

Kennelly: “It is of the upmost importance that the medical spa has a Licensed Medical Director, qualified in aesthetic medicine, who ensures treatments are performed safely and is readily on hand. All practitioners, including nurses, physician assistants, and aestheticians, should hold unexpired licenses and certifications for the treatments they perform. Every employee should also undergo regular training and continuing education to stay up to date with evidence-based practices, safety techniques, and protocols. Do not feel shy in asking to see qualifications, years of expertise, how many treatments they have performed or adverse events they have managed!”

Olson: “Who can perform medical injectables varies from state to state. RNs, NPs, PAs and MDs are trained in anatomy, aseptic technique and with advanced training, medical injectables. Some states allow these services to be delegated to non-licensed individuals. In my opinion, this compromises standard of care.”

Rivera: “I recommend patients always ask for the provider’s licensure and make sure they are certified to perform that specific procedure in your state. Regulations vary from state to state, so knowing the regulations in your state is very important. You should also ask the provider how many times they have performed the treatment and if they’ve seen any complications in prior cases.”

Safa: “Medical supervision varies state to state and licensure to licensure. When it comes to patient care, MDs, DOs, NPs and PAs may evaluate, diagnose and treat aesthetic patients in medical spa settings. Nurses (RNs and LPNs) may follow the treatment plan provided by the above named licensed professionals, but may not diagnose or perform good faith exams on the patients of a medical spa. Medical supervision (direct or indirect) is unique to each state and is best defined by the Board of Medicine and the Board of Nursing.”

Sher: “All medspas should have a medical director, and all injectors should be an RN, APN, PA, MD or DO. No estheticians should be performing injections. Even RNs should have ‘Good faith exams’ performed by an NP/PA or physician; this is a health exam that allows that RN to perform the injections. Medspas that do not perform these exams are both not in compliance and may be putting patients at risk.”

Winnard: “Depending on the state, practitioners can range from registered nurses, physician associates, nurse practitioners, to medical doctors. There are also specialized technicians in many states who can perform procedures. Make sure you know your state’s laws for who can inject neurotoxin and fillers, who can run a laser, who can perform skin care procedures, and more. You want to be absolutely clear on who is licensed to perform all procedures in a medical spa. AmSpa has wonderful resources for figuring this out. If you're ever hesitant, you don't have to take the facility’s word for who is qualified to perform a procedure; you can research the providers' credentials yourself on the state board of medicine's website to verify.”

What happens in a proper consultation, and what should the patient learn about the practitioner and treatment at this stage?

Fletcher: “In a proper consultation, images should always be first, using a standardized photography set up to be able to assess outcomes and help design future treatments. Appointment times for consultations should be plentiful and allow for a thorough discussion of concerns, goals, and desired outcomes as well as credentialling of the practice and practitioners to help the patient feel at ease with their choice. It’s important for whoever is doing the consult to know the patient’s goals and the patient should be able to assess other patient’s results using their before and afters help to confirm their decision.”

Kennelly: “During a proper consultation, the practitioner should begin by introducing themselves and explaining the practice's philosophy of safe and natural aesthetics. They should then promise ethical and safe care, followed by a thorough evaluation of the patient's health and aesthetic history. It is important to ask what the patient's aesthetic goals are as well, to ensure each treatment is working towards that goal.

“A good practitioner will listen and explain everything clearly in terms the patient can fully understand, never speaking above them. An even better practitioner will also turn a patient away from treatment, rather than upselling unnecessary treatments to profit. Practitioners should provide detailed information about available options and also what the patient is NOT a candidate for. Any potential complications must be explained as well, from normal bruising to rare infections.

“The consultation should be an open conversation to ensure both the practitioner and patient feel they have established a trusting relationship. Treatment plans and pricing should be transparent, and no patient should EVER feel obliged to get a treatment on the same day. It's perfectly fine to get a second opinion or process the information that was given before beginning treatments.”

Olson: “Your provider should be credentialed either on the website, by guest services or by the provider themselves. Don't be afraid to ask questions. The patient should be asked to fill out a medical history form and the provider should review it with the patient, ask the patient's concerns and do a thorough assessment. The provider's assessment should be discussed with the patient, recommended treatments explained in layman's terms and any possible side effects and recovery time discussed with the patient.”

Rivera: “It is always important to ask the provider for expectations regarding the treatment, downtime and possible side effects or complications. It is important to also note, if complications were to happen what steps would the provider take to resolve the issue. My recommendation for patients is to ask the providers about their background training and how much continued education they attend every year to stay up to date with new treatments and trends.”

Safa: “Consultations are the best way to get go know a practice and your provider. This is a time where your provider should not only do a full assessment and initial health intake, but should also allow the patient enough time to ask their questions. A reputable practice will offer a thorough consultation to discuss your goals, evaluate your suitability for the procedure, and explain the risks and benefits. Helpful questions patients might ask the provider include medical qualifications and years of experience specific to the treatment the patient is interested in. Other questions that are sometimes difficult, but necessary to ask include the type and frequency of continuing medical education in addition to their procedure complication rates. If a provider hesitates to answer these questions, then one should trust their instincts, and continue the search for a credible provider.”

Sher: “A proper consultation includes a health history ruling out any contraindications to treatment. At this time, there should be a conversation about both short-term and long-term aesthetic goals as well as what to expect in terms of pricing. The patient should learn about the risks and benefits of the treatments, and a reasonable cosmetic expectation of the result. This is also a good time to make sure the injector and the patient are a good fit in terms of the patient's aesthetic goals and the injector's style.”

Winnard: “In a proper consultation, the provider will begin with an initial assessment to examine the patient, discuss expectations and goals, determine if the patient is a good candidate for treatment, and discuss treatment options. A custom treatment plan should be created for every patient. Any risks or side effects associated with the procedure should be discussed with the patient before beginning treatment. Before and after photos should always be taken at every aesthetic consult and follow-up. The patient should also be told any pre- and post-care instructions prior to treatment. Following the consultation or treatment, patients should be sent home with a printout of these instructions as well. Any patient questions or concerns should be answered by providers prior to beginning treatment.”

What elements do you look for that tell you the medical spa facility is clean and safe?

Fletcher: “From the waiting room, to the bathrooms and finally to the treatment rooms, the facility should show patients the medical spa’s ability to be meticulous in all things, including cleanliness and safety. Do you see hand sanitizer or sinks in every room? Are their gloves and sharps containers in all the rooms? Do the sheets get changed out between patients? 

“Regarding safety, how up to date are the injectors in their complication management training? Do they use ultrasound? Accuvein™? Hylenex on site? Do they have protocols in place for complication management? Prospective patients should ask the practitioners what their policy is for complications or management of side effects.”

Kennelly: “When assessing a medical spa’s facility, trust all five of your senses and your gut instincts. The spa should feel, look, and smell clean. There should be welcoming music in the background. A nice touch is always having beverages or small treats for the patients. Overall, the facility should be so spotless that you would want to eat off the floor. This does not stop with the front desk and waiting area. Treatment rooms should be well-organized and equipped with the necessary supplies. All rooms should have clearly labeled sharps containers. When cupboards are opened, you should see that everything is labeled correctly with its own living space inside the cupboard. There should never be trash lying around. Additionally, safety protocols and procedures, including emergency procedures, should be displayed for practitioners. Safety and cleanliness are two of the most important aspects of a medical spa, and it is important that you can see that from the second you walk in!”

Olson: “Look for attention to details. If the lobby is cluttered, the bathroom is dirty, then the attention to detail in the treatment room may not be prioritized. If instruments are used, look to see that they came out of a sealed autoclave bag or out of a wet sterilizing solution. Syringes of dermal filler should be opened in the treatment room. Syringes should never be shared or reused. Sharps containers and red bags should be present in the treatment room. Medical providers should be wearing gloves.”

Rivera: “When attending the consultation patients should notice their surroundings to see if the med spa is clean and proper medical guidelines are being used on current patients. Having pre- and post-instructions given to patients and asking about safety is very reasonable during a consultation. Providers that take the time to explain treatments well to their patients instill confidence and reassure safety.”

Safa: “Look for facilities that comply with up-to-date health and safety standards. A medical spa should not only appear clean but so should the staff. Healthy habits include washing of hands, donning gloves for medical procedures, and continuous sanitization of surfaces being used between treatments. Albeit extra leg work, patients may also research safety and malpractice issues or complaints through the provider's state licensed medical boards.”

Sher: “Generally speaking, it's easy to tell how carefully a facility tends to cleanliness. Having CaviWipes on hand to wipe counters and chairs between patients is key for protecting against infection. Using medical-grade skin cleansers prior to injectable procedures like alcohol wipes and Hibiclens is also very important. And of course, a medspa that uses ultrasound is also a great differentiator for a facility that is going the extra mile for safe injections!”

Winnard: “In addition to general cleanliness and organization, you always want to look for things like vials of medication or product being left out on counters or unrefrigerated for extended periods of time. You want to make sure that all staff wear gloves when consulting or treating patients and that any needles/instruments are properly disposed of immediately after being used. You should also check to make sure any devices are properly cleaned and wiped down prior to each treatment.”

What are the steps of a safe med spa treatment, starting when the patient books the appointment?

Fletcher: “Ensuring a safe med spa treatment begins when the patient books the appointment. Dependent on the appointment, preparation instructions are always given to ensure the best treatment possible. Additionally, ample time should be scheduled for the various procedures to allow for thorough and safe treatments. Standardized images are always essential, and topical should be offered.”

Kennelly: “From the moment a patient books an appointment, the process should be seamless and reassuring. The initial phone call should be welcoming, with all questions answered, including who we are, what our promise to you is, pre-care, cost estimates, and post-care instructions. Preparation paperwork, outlining procedures, risks, benefits, and consent forms, should be sent ahead of time for the patient to review. All of this must also be explained in depth throughout the in-person appointment.

"Throughout the in-person appointment, the patient should never feel rushed. They should always feel like they are in safe and trusted hands and actually excited about the treatment. There should never be any pressure to receive treatment and the only treatment provided should be the necessary treatment that aligns with the patient's goals.

"Once treatment is over, all patients should receive a follow-up from the practitioner to ensure they are happy with the treatment that was provided. All patients should schedule follow-up appointments for the practitioner to assess their results. From the moment a patient books an appointment to the follow-up, there should always be clear communication, outlined expectations, and conversations on safety with each treatment given.”

Olson: “The patient should be told by guest services what to expect during their visit. The patient should be sent a link to a portal to fill out intake forms or they should be provided when the patient arrives. The visit should never be rushed and the provider should perform a thorough assessment, and the treatment plan should be made collaboratively with the patient. Patient education is imperative. The facility should be clean and the staff should be caring and knowledgeable.”

Rivera: “Pre-instructions should be explained to the patients before their appointment. It is also important to make sure the provider takes baseline pictures before performing any procedures.”

Safa: "Patients should be fully re-evaluated by the licensed provider prior to receiving a medical treatment, no matter how big or small the procedure. An appropriate evaluation includes a brief review of systems, medications and discussions regarding the patient’s current physical and mental state. A thorough review of the treatment process, realistic outcomes, potential complications, and appropriate post-op care must also be reviewed prior to treatment. During the procedure, appropriate sterility or aseptic technique should be maintained, all whilst the provider seeks continuous feedback from the patient. Treated areas should then be cleansed adequately prior to the patient’s departure.”

Sher: “At Sparkle, we have protocols for every treatment which includes safety procedures. So, when a patient books, the consents and paperwork are emailed to the patient. These must be completed prior to arrival so that the providers have time to review them and go over any contraindications to treatment. Then, at the appointment, the patient and provider review their paperwork together and go over the health history and aesthetic goals. If they are aligned, then before and after pictures are taken to ensure that we have a good baseline for treatment. Before and after pictures both protect the patient and the medspa so that they can track and follow the progress of the treatment. If higher risk injections are being performed, ultrasound before or during the procedure is a way to be sure that the filler isn't going to enter an artery where devastating complications can occur.”

Winnard: “When a patient books their appointment, they should immediately be asked to provide their driver's license and be sent intake and consent forms. Intakes and consents must be completed before any treatments or procedures. Providers should also always verify any past medical history and known allergies with patients at every appointment. Before and after photos should be taken at each appointment and added to the patient's chart, this includes "immediate" after photos and after photos at the follow-up appointment. Providers should always wash their hands and put on gloves when examining or treating patients, even just in a consultation. Providers should also clean treatment areas extensively before injecting or treating a patient, you never want to inject or treat a patient with makeup on the treatment area! After treatment, you should always confirm that the patient knows all post-care instructions and call them the next day to check in. Appropriate follow-up appointments should be offered to every aesthetic patient and encouraged.”

What post-treatment follow-up or home care instructions are expected?

Fletcher: “Verbal home care instructions are always expressed, but the patient should also leave with something in hand and a follow-up email with treatment expectations as they leave. This helps mitigate concerns that may arise days after treatment. Follow-up phone calls are handled by the medical assistants or practitioners and follow-up appointments are scheduled within 2-4 weeks to ensure treatment satisfaction.”

Kennelly: “Personalized follow-ups are crucial to ensure patients feel cared for and to maintain the relationship post-treatment. Practitioners should always be available for any question a patient may have and follow up the same day or the next day with facial filler treatments in particular. These follow-ups are also necessary to monitor downtime and make sure that it is all normal or NOT normal. If a concern arises, patients should know to contact the office immediately. All office staff should take these concerns as a priority and ensure the patient receives the correct care.”

Olson: “Although post-treatment instructions and home care should be verbalized, many times patients don't remember especially if they are stressed or in pain. Post-treatment instructions should be provided in a written form or a digital link given. If a follow-up appointment is needed, then that should be booked before the patient leaves the office.”

Rivera: “Having post-treatment instructions is a way of your medical provider showing you they care about you understanding what will happen at home after your treatment. Also, always make sure you have a phone number to reach the facility if you have any complications at home or have any questions.”

Safa: “Before receiving a treatment, patients should be provided with appropriate follow-up care instructions and the best mode of contact for after-hours care. Once the procedure is performed, it is standard care for the provider to once again review appropriate care, warning signs to watch out for, and in many cases provide a written post-procedural care form for the patient to take home. Proper aftercare is essential for optimal results and recovery.”

Sher: “A patient should expect a follow-up call or text from the practice in a HIPAA compliant mode of communication. This is a way to ensure that there are no complications and that the patient is happy with their results. They should be given clear information about when and why to call the clinic. As a clinic that handles many outside complications, I am always surprised to find out that many clinics do not give good advice on when to call the clinic in case of warning signs after injectables.”

Winnard: “You want to make sure patients are informed about any risks or side effects of the treatments performed and know what to be on the lookout for. You also want to make sure patients have a realistic understanding of what the treatment area may look like for a few days post-treatment. Any instructions for massaging/not massaging, icing/not icing, when to exercise, when to use makeup and skincare, SPF instructions and more should always go home with the patient at every appointment! You also want to make sure that the facility gives specific after-care instructions for each different service or treatment, since pre- and post-care can vary greatly depending on treatment.”

How do you make your patient feel like they're cared for and continue the patient relationship post-treatment?

Fletcher: “To help the patient feel cared for, we follow up with a phone call in the next day or two after treatment to discuss any concerns or answer any questions. The patient will hear from us via text or email after two weeks to make sure they're happy with their results, and/or a follow-up treatment is booked for post-treatment images and review. We continue the “consultation” process almost at every visit by checking on their investment (using before and after images taken nearly every visit). Plans are put in place for the next treatment due with an approximate cost, so patients can budget their downtime and cost. Once their treatment is presumed to be diminished, they'll receive another contact encouraging them to rebook for their next treatment.” 

Kennelly: “There are many ways to make your patients feel cared for and maintain the relationship post-treatment. This can be as easy as a friendly smile when the patient walks in, to proper communication throughout their treatment. After treatment, following up with a phone call or message to check on the patient’s recovery and answer any of their questions is also so important. Sharing with the patient their journey of before and after photos. Additionally, asking patients for feedback on their experience will not only help your practice continuously improve, but it will also give the patient another way to communicate on their experience. Overall, listen to your patients and value them. Sending little handwritten thank you cards, small gifts on their birthday or a bunch of flowers when they are going through something difficult. Patients never forget the small gestures of kindness.”

Olson: “The provider needs to listen to the patient’s goals and concerns. A thorough assessment should be performed and a treatment plan created with shared decision-making. The provider or patient care coordinator should follow up with the patient by phone a day or two after the treatment. Preferably, a comprehensive treatment plan has been created with plans for the patient to return on a regular basis.”

Rivera: “In my office, patients have a HIPAA secured messaging system that they can text if they have questions or concerns after their treatments. We have an emergency line, which helps to make sure patients feel calm and taken care of when getting a treatment at Glanz Aesthetics. We also text our patients the day after the procedure to see how they are doing post-treatment.”

Safa: “Patients should be made aware that any feedback during and post-treatment is considered welcomed feedback. During the initial consultation phase, providers should be clear that communication is a must to make sure patients receive precise and adequate care during the entire treatment journey and for the longevity of the relationship with the practice. Patients should also feel cared for by the staff, as they are considered an extension of the practitioner. It is the practice’s responsibility to maintain an open line of communication with patients, so that they feel that follow-up care is always available if needed. In many cases, patients receiving first-time or more invasive treatments should have a follow-up appointment or point of contact scheduled prior to leaving.”

Sher: “A patient should expect a follow-up call or text from the practice in a HIPAA compliant mode of communication. This is a way to ensure that there are no complications and that the patient is happy with their results. We also send birthday cards and thank you cards offering gratitude that they've chosen us.”

Winnard: “You always want to call and check in on the patient the day after a treatment or procedure, especially when it is a new patient or a new procedure for a patient. You also want to make sure that the patient knows that they can call your office at any time to check in or with any questions or concerns. You always want to encourage or require follow-up appointments to ensure that patients are healing well and happy with their results!”

What would turn you away from a med spa as a patient? Please tell us about those red flags.

Fletcher: “Red flags start in the waiting room. If other patients are looking overdone, or not natural, this would raise concern. The same could be said about the staff that work there. Another red flag would be taking photos with personal iPhones and not using a standardized camera system. Injectors not having their title on their scrubs (how is a patient supposed to know they are licensed?), not going over informed consent, no medical director to contact in case of emergency, short appointment times and no follow-up visits discussed.”

Kennelly: “Trust your feelings and observations. A lack of credentials and expertise is concerning, so don’t be shy to be straightforward and get those questions answered. If you feel like they’re pushing multiple syringes and using every sales tactic in the book, it's a red flag. They may be more interested in your wallet than your well-being. Other warning signs include a lack of other patients (which could mean they’ve scared everyone else off), unclear, very cheap, or very expensive pricing, and an unclean practice. Additionally, customer service is key. A huge red flag is unfriendly or off-putting gossipy staff. Always remember, the customer comes first!”

Olson: “Poor reviews are a definite red flag. High turnover in staff is a sign that the culture is not good. Professionalism trickles down from those at the top. All providers and staff should treat patients with respect and be knowledgeable about services offered.”

Rivera: “Red flags that would turn me away from a medical spa would be not finding any credentials of the medical provider on the website. I always make sure I get a consultation with the provider that will be performing my treatment ahead of time and that it is not just sold over the phone without having the opportunity to interview the provider.

“Another red flag for me would be going to a med spa that is dirty without proper disposal of medical waste. Finding dirty gauze or syringes on counters is indicative of a dirty med spa without proper safety protocols that could put the patients at risk for infections or contamination.

“Another important point would be having a consultation with a provider who is not able to answer all of my questions or feels unsure while explaining the different treatments. Aesthetics treatments are wonderful but don't come without risks, therefore safety should be the number one priority when looking for your med spa of choice.”

Safa: “A patient's experience all starts with the first line of communication; the administrative staff. If the supportive staff is unable to credential the medical providers or answer simple questions regarding the medical spa or the treatments rendered, a red flag should be raised. Additional concerns include providers that rush through the consultation process, do not adequately listen to patients' concerns, have a lack of anatomical knowledge, are not current on various treatment options, or attempt to make an upsell.”

Sher: “I think if you cannot find a referral or someone who can vouch for a medspa, it probably doesn't have a good patient base. If they offer Groupon deals, they might not have a good patient base to fill their books. A consumer should ask themselves why they are offering medical services through Groupon.”

Winnard: “Unsanitary or messy conditions, unclear credentials for any providers, any places that are willing to "break" rules on pre- and post-care just to make a quick buck, any places that don't have detailed intake/consent forms, any places that don't offer extensive consultations and answer any questions you may have prior or post-treatment, any places that don't take before and after photos and don't strongly encourage follow up appointments!”

What might surprise a new medical aesthetic patient about their first visit?

Fletcher: “What might surprise a new patient is how thorough the appointment is. It is not unusual for the initial consult to last an hour, and an additional hour if treatment is commenced that day. Photos, legal paperwork, discussion of treatment options, informed consent, and facial mapping all take time and expertise. It is a common misperception that aesthetic treatments are not medical at all and just a ‘more expensive version of a hair or nail appointment.’”

Kennelly: “In-depth consultation and longer appointment times with focus on emotional and physical wellbeing. The in-depth consultation should wow every patient! Patients should have ample time and feel safe to share their past experiences with treatments and their aesthetic goals.

“Patients should always feel loved and safe in a spa-like atmosphere where the experience is enjoyable and it feels like it’s just what you needed. You should be treated like a queen with a kind welcome, beverage, little welcome gifts and good vibes.”

Olson: “A medical aesthetics experience should be a concierge, customized experience. Time should be spent with the provider getting to know the patient's concerns, hesitancies, fears, and insecurities. A thorough assessment and long-term treatment plan should be created by the provider keeping the patient's needs and budget in mind. Procedures should be explained, including possible side effects and what to expect in the recovery process.

“Oftentimes in healthcare, a symptom is treated and the patient goes on their way. In medical aesthetics, it is important to find a provider or group of providers who know you and can guide you on this journey of aging, helping you to be the best version of yourself. Since beauty and vitality are a reflection of internal wellness, a medical aesthetics practice that offers wellness services and functional medicine provides a holistic approach to health and beauty. This combination of services provides comprehensive results, improving both physical appearance and quality of life.”

Rivera: “Even though aesthetics is part of the medical field, we are lucky to perform treatments without needing insurance approval. This allows me to take my time when doing consultations and I’m able to give my patients all the time they need so they can ask questions, get to know me and make sure they feel confident prior to starting their procedure. Throughout my 10 years performing medical aesthetic treatments, I have realized patients value the time I am able to spend with them and are very appreciative of the doctor-patient relationship they achieve with me, which is something they are not used to.”

Safa: “When comparing elective procedures to the practice of general medicine, patients might be surprised that both environments should maintain professionalism and the patients’ receipt of care must be medically disciplined. Although medical spas can provide a more upbeat atmosphere and a positive aesthetic outcome for patients, medical providers must still approach all consultations and treatments with diligent evaluation and best medical practices. In fact, there is much more to being an excellent aesthetic provider than meets the eye. In many cases, the most sought after and highly skilled aesthetic experts on average spend more time and money annually continuing their education than most primary care providers.”

Sher: “A medical aesthetic patient on their first visit might find medspas a bit different than a typical medical practice in their customer experience. Many medspas will go out of their way (hopefully!) to provide a fantastic experience for a consumer since there are so many choices out there for people to choose from. They might also be surprised that many medspas do not work with insurance plans.”

Winnard: “Medical aesthetic appointments should be fun! Since medical aesthetic procedures are elective, you should be picky about who you choose for your care. At a reputable facility, expect at least a 20-minute consultation prior to any treatment where you can discuss all goals and concerns. You should feel like an individual and that all recommendations made by your provider are unique to you!”

Breaking It Down: Key Takeaways for Aesthetic Patients Seeking a Professional Med Spa

As these aesthetic practitioners have shared, there is not one simple answer to the question of what to look for in a safe med spa visit. Many factors point to whether a medical spa is properly run and equipped to safely administer the aesthetic treatments you are looking for. 

Before you visit, have a look at the medical spa’s website and online presence. Check for the following:

• Read consumer reviews to get a glimpse of how other patients perceive the practice and whether they are satisfied with the results and service.
• Visit the About page to learn about the practitioners’ credentials and the medical director responsible for your care. (You can check license status with the state medical or nursing boards.)
• View before and after images on the med spa’s website. This can help you get a sense of the practice’s style and decide whether they produce results that align with your aesthetic goals.

During the visit, pay attention to how the staff interacts with you and each other. Ask yourself these questions when visiting a medical spa:

• Is the environment clean and inviting?
• Have you been medically screened and determined to be a good candidate for the treatment?
• Were you provided with forms and consents, and these were reviewed by the practitioner?
• Is your consultation performed by a practitioner licensed to prescribe treatment, and is it conducted according to the procedures outlined by the practitioners above?
• Have you been given pre- and post-care instructions?
• Has the practitioner explained the risk of possible complications and answered your questions about the treatment?
• Do you see that the instruments are sanitary, and that all products are FDA-approved? (If off-label techniques will be used, the practitioner should make you aware of this.)

After the treatment, take note of the aftercare instructions provided and recommendations for follow-up treatment. Note the following:

• Have they asked you to book a follow-up appointment?
• Did they clearly explain the post-care instructions?
• Were you provided with a way to contact the practitioner in case of emergencies?
• Did someone from the practice reach out following the treatment, using a HIPAA compliant mode of communication?

When in doubt, ask questions! Medical spa professionals are committed to patient safety and will be eager to talk to you about the training and experience they have in these procedures, their licensing and their plans for continuing education. Once you find the right med spa in your area, we trust that it will be the start of a long and happy relationship.

To learn more from these and other aesthetic professionals, listen to AmSpa’s Medical Spa Insider podcast and get to know the faces behind beloved med spas both in small towns and on a national scale.