An aesthetician is a licensed practitioner of some skin treatments, who in our case practices in our office alongside the dermatologists. They get licensed by the state,  but they can and cannot do certain things. What an aesthetician does or is allowed to do, however, obviously is different in each office. In general, most do facials, superficial chemical peels, acne extractions and things like that which do not require a doctor.

What aestheticians do not do is prescribe prescription medication, although they do prescribe cosmeceuticals, or treatments for the skin that are not prescription. They also do microdermabrasion, which is a form of exfoliation which uses a vacuum to spray micro-crystals of aluminium dioxide on the skin (usually the face).

Complementing the Doctor

Aestheticians are helpful in a dermatologist’s office as they complement what the doctor does. You may see a doctor for your acne and then have an acne facial each month from your aesthetician. You may see a doctor for your melasma, which is a type of hyperpigmentation of the skin that commonly occurs in women. The doctor may prescribe a bleaching cream, and then the aesthetician does microdermabrasion or peels and may help you pick out a special moisturizer with a sunscreen in it.

However, along with not being allowed to prescribe medications, aestheticians also cannot do laser procedures, and they are not allowed to do any type of invasive procedures like injecting fillers or Botox. The laws are most likely set state by state, so the aesthetician and the doctor are both fully aware of what their limitations are.

They are not covered by our insurance as their services are considered cosmetic. And although the laws may vary from state to state, in my office, I am the only one who injects Botox. I don’t allow the aestheticians to do it.

Helpful Despite Limitations

Despite limitations, aestheticians are incredibly helpful in a dermatologist’s office because they can sometimes do things a doctor is not able to carry out due to time constraints. For instance, I may see a patient with acne and spend a few minutes poking out some acne blackheads, but an aesthetician may spend 30 minutes – or even more – doing acne extractions.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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Why You Need to Exfoliate

Exfoliation is a natural process through which your dead skin cells are replaced, exposing the new skin underneath. Normally, it happens about every five weeks. But as we age, our skin doesn’t exfoliate as quickly as it did when we were younger, so we need a little boost. When you don’t exfoliate, you get a buildup of dead skin, which makes it look dull and gives it an uneven texture. Exfoliation smoothes the skin’s texture and promotes skin turnover. Dead skin build-up can accentuate lines and wrinkles, clog your pores, and make you more prone to acne.

Medical Spa Exfoliation Treatments

Skin can be exfoliated mechanically or chemically:

1. An example of mechanical exfoliation is microdermabrasion. A quick procedure designed to remove dead skin cells, microdermabrasion uses either fine aluminum oxide crystals or a diamond-tipped head to gently abrade the skin as the tip planes across with a slight vacuuming action.

2. An example of chemical exfoliation is chemical peels. A chemical peel is a procedure that uses a chemical solution that causes the outer layers of damaged skin to peel off. This treatment can be customized according to your goals and needs by selecting the type of acid used, the amount of time your skin is exposed to it, and the number of layers applied. For example, glycolic acids and trichloroacetic acids are usually used for anti-aging and pigment problems, while salicylic acids are usually the choice for acne-prone skin.

At-Home Exfoliation Treatments

At-home exfoliation is a must in order to maintain and enhance the results achieved through in-office treatments. Face washes, gels, and lotions that contain chemical exfoliants can be used at home, as the concentrations are designed for daily use.

At Ulan Medical Spa, we recommend a face wash that contains 7% glycolic acid by Prescribed Solutions, a physician-grade skincare line. We may also recommend a mini-peel gel by Glytone, also physician-grade line. This mini-peel gel, which contains 10.8% glycolic acid, is applied to the face. You leave it on for about 10 minutes, two to three times a week, at home to give your skin a boost. You may have to ease into this regimen. For example, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin, you could start twice a week with the face wash, and work your way up to being able to do it daily.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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Our skin in the largest organ on our body. But, unfortunately, we are not as concerned about managing its health as we are our about our heart and brain.  In reality, explains Dr. Gavin, our skin suffers a great deal. Every day the skin is exposed to wind, pesticides, smoke and the most harmful element, UV rays. Because of these factors, many of which are unavoidable, everyone should have an active skin care plan. By following these basic guidelines, you too can customize a skin care routine that will leave you with a radiant, healthy glow.

• Sun Protection: Dr. Gavin says that she cannot stress enough the importance of applying sunscreen 365 days a year. The ultraviolet rays that are emitted by the sun are the worst for our body. Whether it is a beautiful day outside or it is cloudy or snowing, if you do not have the proper sunscreen on, you are leaving your skin exposed.
• Exfoliate: You should exfoliate every single day to remove the buildup of dead skin cells. Especially as you age, the layer of dead skin cells thickens which can leave skin feeling rough and dry. By combating these dead cells everyday, you can drastically soften your skin. For everyday use an over the counter exfoliating scrub is fine. For a more intense exfoliating treatment though, Dr. Gavin recommends visiting your dermatologist’s office or a medical spa for either microdermabrasions or vibradermabrasions a few times a year.
• Moisturize: Regardless of your skin type, you should be moisturizing your skin every day, perhaps even multiple times a day depending on how often you shower and wash your face. As you age, you will also find that your skin does not obtain moisture the way it used to, making this step even more crucial. Even people with oily skin should moisturize, explains Dr. Gavin. Moisturizers will actually trick your skin into not producing more oil.
• Exercise: Just as with any other part of our body, staying active is a wonderful way to keep your skin in shape. Sweating is actually a great, natural way to make skin radiant. And, as long as you clean the skin on your face and body properly after a workout, you won’t see breakouts resulting from sweat.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential to keeping your skin looking young and blemish-free. Staying away from oily and fatty foods will reduce blemishes, but you may also want to ask your doctor about nutritional supplements that can help even out skin tone and improve your skin’s overall appearance.

And remember, these rules do not apply just to your face. The skin on your elbows is just as important as the skin on your cheeks.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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Primarily used to restore a natural glow to your face by removing a dead layer of skin cells, microdermabrasion treatments are a great solution for smoothing the rough surfaces of your feet too, insists Monica Gavin, M.D., a diplomat of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.  Her suggestion may come as a particular relief to you if you have already been the victim of painful or itchy calluses and bunions.

At the Azani Medical Spa in Pennsylvania, which local newspapers have voted the best medical spa, Dr. Gavin uses microdermabrasions to treat a number of areas. Aside from the face, she treats areas on the neck, decolletage, hands, back and of course, the feet, that have been plagued with rough skin.

Similar to the typical microdermabrasion treatment that you’ve had before, Dr. Gavin treats the feet by using a stream of crystals to exfoliate the skin while simultaneously suctioning away the layer of dead skin cells. What makes this treatment a little different from other microdermabrasions is a paddle used during the procedure to push moisture deep into all layers of skin on your feet.

Instantly, your dry, brittle feet will be quenched and you’ll rejoice over the results that are visible after just one treatment. It is recommended that in order to keep moisture locked in the skin, you continue to apply a moisturizer to your feet every night after your treatment. Other than that, you won’t need to return to the medical spa for another microdermabrasion treatment for another four to five months.

One of the biggest perks about microdermabrasions is that you see the same results that you’d get from laser treatments and multiple chemical peels without spending the time or money that they require. And right after your treatment is done you can return to your normal daily activities. While you may initially feel a slight tenderness on the bottoms of your feet, you may also find yourself dancing out of the office.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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What Services Does a Medical Spa Offer?

Dermalounge offers advanced products and innovative skincare technologies.

How to Choose a Medical Spa

All services and products offered by the medical spa should be FDA-approved.

What is Care Credit?

Care Credit is a regular credit card, except for the fact that it is designed specifically for healthcare procedures.

The Blending of Medicine and Spa Treatments

Medical spas such as Dermalounge offer clients medically oriented skincare procedures in a spa-like environment.

Technology Behind Skincare

Anyone considering a medical skincare treatment should be familiar with the technology.

Aftercare in Medispa Treatments

One of the most important factors in successful skin health treatments is the care that is intended to follow the procedure.

At-Home Products Available at Medical Spas

Dermalounge provides its own line of at-home products that are used for cleaning, moisturizing, and sun protection.

Benefits of a Skin Analysis

A skin analysis is a valuable tool.

Options to Diminish Wrinkles

If you are tired of looking in the mirror and not being happy with the image staring back at you, it may be time to consider undoing the effects of aging.

Juvederm Removes Wrinkles from Your Face

Juvederm is intended to treat the lines that appear on either side of someone’s mouth, sometimes giving it a parenthetical appearance.

What Does Latisse Do?

There are a number of benefits to choosing Latisse over other methods of enhancing your lashes.

All About Obagi Products

Obagi is an at-home treatment designed to prevent and improve common, visible skin disorders. You can only purchase Obagi from a doctor or licensed skincare professional.

What Does Perlane Do?

If you are searching for a subtle, effective way to reduce the effects of aging, Perlane injections may be your best option.

Benefits of Radiesse

Those in search of a reliable, effective wrinkle treatment should consider Radiesse.

Benefits of Restylane

Those interested in spot fixing wrinkles, or adding a subtle boost to their appearance, should consider a product like Restylane.

Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels

Chemical peels and microdermabrasion have a few similarities, but they should not be used together because they could have a double-peeling effect.

Skin Firming Treatments Available at Medical Spas

Skin firming is a non-surgical treatment for facial rejuvenation. It is a non-invasive alternative to a traditional plastic surgery method like a face lift.

Laser Hair Removal in a Medical Spa

Hair removal can be an awkward and embarrassing subject, so visiting a medical spa can help ease the discomfort clients may feel.

How a Medical Spa Can Help You Prepare for Your Wedding

The first thing you will want to do is discuss your upcoming nuptials with the clinicians at your chosen medical spa.

The Importance of Sun Protection for Your Skin

If you want to keep your skin as healthy as possible, for as long as possible, it is important to protect your skin every time you go out in the sun.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider. Tags: botox, care credit, chemical peel, juvederm, laser removal, latisse, medical spa, medical spas, medispa, Medspa, microdermabrasion, obagi, perlane, radiesse, restylane, skin firming

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The process of microdermabrasion is typically considered the least invasive dermatological treatment. It is also more affordable than other cosmetic surgeries, and those who qualify for Care Credit can use it to pay for the microdermabrasion service. The process is pain free and has few side effects. It is also able to be used by all skin types and colors. Following the treatment, your skin will look healthy, younger, and cleaner. Most people require a half-dozen to a dozen microdermabrasion treatments to see results. Following those initial treatments, you may want to schedule a maintenance session every two or three months.

The treatment consists of a mixture of suctioning and abrasion. A stream of crystals is used to gently exfoliate the skin while the suction sloughs away dead skin cells. It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete a full facial process, and it can also be performed on the neck, chest, feet, back, and hands. Following the treatment you can return to your regular activities, and aside from sun protection, no follow up care is required. The procedure is non-invasive and is used to revitalize dull skin, reduce pore size, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and lessen the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, and age spots. The microdermabrasion procedure available at Dermalounge exfoliates the skin’s outer layers to reveal clean, smooth skin. This process has been used for over 20 years in Europe and North America, and is a simple, accessible, and powerful way to bring out the skin’s underlying beauty.

Chemical peeling is another method of skin resurfacing and exfoliating. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels should not be used together because they can create a double peeling effect. You will need to choose one treatment over the other, at least until your skin has completely healed and is in need of a new service. A chemical peel is usually more effective on serious skin problems like deep scars and wrinkles. Keep in mind that because it penetrates more, there will be more after care and you will experience a period of time where you may not feel comfortable being in public. Chemical peels are available in a variety of strengths. The deepest peels may require anesthetic and can be very uncomfortable.

The recovery time associated with a peel will depend on the type of peel you choose. Glycolic peels are less effective but require the least amount of downtime. A phenol treatment may require up to two weeks of downtime, which may include painkillers, facial bandages, and antibiotics. You may still notice redness on your face up to three months following your treatment.  Deep chemical peels can cause burning, swelling, flaking, and scarring so they are performed only once in a person’s life. Glycolic peels are typically mild and are fairly safe, and can be performed every few months.

Dermalounge chemical peels can be combined with their Signature Facials. They offer rejuvenation for all skin types, and are helpful for those who want to reduce the appearance of fine lines, rough skin, uneven pigment, or skin damaged from the sun or acne. The advanced peels are formulated with alpha hydroxyl or glycolic acids, which gently rid the skin of dirt, oil, bacteria, and dead cells. The peels are performed with limited irritation because they attempt to mimic the body’s natural elements. Because these are not deep chemical peels, you will leave the medical spa with a healthy glow and will require little downtime.

Chemical peels and microdermabrasion do have a few similarities. They can both be used on the face, chest, neck, back and hands. Both take approximately 30 minutes for the face, and up to an hour for other areas. Both can be performed in a medical spa and both are offered at both Dermalounge locations.

Dermalounge offers a variety of skincare treatments in a medical spa environment. If you are interested in learning more, contact either of the Dermalounge locations.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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What Is It?

Microdermabrasion is a process that removes the outer layer of skin either partially or completely through the use of light abrasion. A few methods exist with only a slight variation in the tools used to complete the process. The process of dermabrasion evolved from the much older technique of abrasion. This method polished the top layer of skin, and required anastesia and a much longer recovery period than microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is often so quick and simple is has been nicknamed “the lunchtime facial.”

Methods of dermabrasion include crystal dermabrasion, which is the more traditional method. In this procedure, tiny crystals are blasted onto the skin to perform the exfoliation. Diamond dermabrasion uses a diamond-tipped head that makes contact with the skin and abrades it in the same way as the crystals. In both cases, dead cells are sucked from the skin. There is a third, less expensive means of receiving dermabrasion through the use of an at-home kit. Some feel that the crystal method is being phased out in favor of the diamond method, mainly due to the aluminum oxide chemicals released by the crystals, according to Micro Skin Abrasion, an online microdermabrasion guide.

Both diamond and crystal dermabrasion use a machine with compression and a pump, suction dead cells while skin is being abraded. The massaging of the wand is combined with a super abrasive cream that is applied to the face. Both components of the procedure are designed to slough and suck away the top layer, or dead layer, of skin. The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes and is safe for the face, chest, neck, feet, hands, and back. It can be helpful in removing sun damage, scars, and dark spots. It is not considered painful and does not require the use of an anesthetic. At approximately $100 for a facial procedure, it is affordable and can be combined with other spa services such as a massage or laser hair removal.

Who Needs It?

If you are self-conscious about the appearance of your skin and you would like to do something about it, microdermabrasion may be an option. Those suffering from acne, large pores, scarring, and stretch marks may benefit from the procedure. It is also able to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, making it a popular alternative to a traditional face lift. It can also reduce hyper-pigmentation, so those with spots on their skin may opt to have the procedure to even out their skin tone.

Microdermabrasion is typically performed at a medical spa and does not require the presence of a licensed plastic surgeon. However, your plastic surgeon may suggest the procedure for the reduction of scars or blemishes. It is a safe, effective way to “clean up” the surgical work of the plastic surgeon. There are plastic surgery centers where microdermabrasion may be scheduled as a complement to more invasive procedures.

Benefits

Those seeking a less invasive option to a facelift or other cosmetic procedure may choose microdermabrasion. Compared to other dermatological procedures such as laser treatment and resurfacing, it is a relatively simple treatment. It is less expensive than traditional cosmetic surgery and is generally considered pain free. Unlike a lot of cosmological treatments, it is effective on all skin types and colors.

Risks

While the risks of dermabrasion are rare, you will still need to consider the possible outcome based on your personal medical history. If you are considering the procedure to remove acne, keep in mind it will need to be done several times to see lasting results.

According to Micro Skin Abrasion, the procedure may alter your skin color and cause an imbalance in the shading of your skin, or darkened or lightened spots on the treated area. Because you are only removing the top layer of skin, these risks are reduced, but should still be taken into account when considering your options. The procedure will not work on sunken scars, only those that are puffed and elevated. You will experience sun sensitivity, flaking, and redness, all common to most cosmetogical skin procedures.

It is possible to inhale the crystals during the procedure. They are not considered toxic, and in the rare event it were to occur, it will only result in a mild respiratory disturbance, similar to inhaling common dust particles. The crystals may also be left on the skin’s surface, a side effect that is not an issue with diamond dermabrasion.

The Bottom Line

Those considering microdermabrasion as a means of improving their appearance should take into account their personal medical history. Your doctor will discuss with you if you are eligible for the procedure. While the risks are uncommon, be sure you are prepared to face any skin changes that occur as a result of the procedure. Once you understand the treatment and all it offers, you may opt for dermabrasion as a way to improve your skin’s appearance.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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Here’s the gist of it, starting with a little refresher from biology class: Our skin can be divided into two layers, the dermis, and the epidermis. Microdermabrasion has to do with the epidermis.

The top layer of the epidermis is called the stratum corneum, which is where most wrinkle lines and blemishes are on the skin. The stratum corneum is a bunch of dead cells on the outermost surface of our skin, serving as a sort of buffer for our skin against the world.

Microdermabrasion targets the stratum corneum and removes it. Along with it go blemishes, wrinkles, raised scars, and acne scars.

So once the stratum corneum is gone, the body rushes to replace it with a new outermost layer of skin. The point is to give the skin’s surface a fresh start, with no sign of the blemished history that was erased.

Here’s how it works: jets of zinc oxide, aluminum oxide crystals, or fine organic particles are aimed directly at the affected skin. These particles basically sandblast away the dead layer of stratum corneum.

It’s most often used on the neck, face, arms, and hands. Each treatment takes about 30 minutes to one hour. Five to 12 treatments are recommended, once every two to three weeks. After the cycle of treatments, the next step is scheduling a cycle of follow-up maintenance visits to ensure the continuation of microdermabrasion results.

Who is it for?

Here’s a list of the conditions that you could treat with microdermabrasion: sun-damaged skin, raised scars, acne, dark spots, clogged pores, fragile capillaries, vascular lesions, warts, open sores, eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Microdermabrasion is also especially suited to those who are sensitive to chemical procedures.

The pros and cons:

Microdermabrasion is not generally painful in the slightest, and it requires no anesthetic. It’s trumpeted as the main alternative to plastic surgery and Botox. Side effects include swelling and redness that can last from one hour to two days. But, in the end, you not only eliminate the blemishes that had bothered you, but you get a healthy, fresh look and feel to your skin. And it’s suited to skin of all colors and types. You can resume normal activity right away. That’s why microdermabrasion is sometimes called a “lunch hour” procedure.

Additionally, there aren’t any manufacturing standards for the microdermabrasion machines. And the FDA warns that these machines can be sold without having demonstrated that they work properly, and that they can be operated in the absence of medical supervision.

The bottom line

Microdermabrasion is an alternative to Botox and plastic surgery. It targets the dead upper layer of skin where most imperfections are. The price can be pretty high. So you may want to consult with friends and multiple doctors before starting treatment.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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Depending on the spa and the amount the hostess is willing to spend on the event, some spa parties also include medical anti-aging treatments for guests, such as Botox, microdermabrasion, and laser hair removal.

It’s the ultimate gift of luxury you can give to friends—hosting a party at a popular local spa. Whether you’re throwing a bridal shower, a birthday party, or just a gathering for girlfriends, hosting an event at a spa is one sure fire way to ensure your party is one that nobody will forget.

That’s because whether your friends are working moms or twenty-something gals, everyone appreciates a good spa treatment. And without the worry and hassle of setting up a party space or organizing the menu, throwing together an event couldn’t be easier.

Pick a Spa

Thanks to recent growth in the spa party trend, many spas are now willing to open up at night for private events for their favorite clients. If information about private parties isn’t available on the company’s website, go ahead and call in to ask. For the best chance of having a successful party, choose a spa that has hosted these types of events before and can handle all the details A-to-Z.

Invite the Right Guests

Choosing the right mix of guests is one of the most important keys to any successful party, and a spa event is no exception. Since a spa party will most likely be an intimate affair, it’s best to only invite your closest friends. In addition, make sure to invite the girls you think will enjoy the treatments most, since there is no point in inviting that dreaded sister-in-law who dislikes all things girly and detests getting manicures anyway.

Make a Treatment Menu

Although each spa party is different, many hostesses choose to set up spa stations around the salon, so multiple party guests can receive treatments at one time. The specific treatments offered at a spa party can vary depending on what the spa offers and what the hostess is willing to pay for, but most commonly include manicures, pedicures, facials, make-up application, and body treatments.

Depending on the spa and the amount the hostess is willing to spend on the event, some spa parties also include medical anti-aging treatments for guests, such as Botox, microdermabrasion, and laser hair removal.

Select Finger Foods

As with any party, having enough food and drinks to satisfy guests is key. While some spas allow party hostesses to bring their own foods and drinks to the event—often the cheaper option—others may require that party hostesses choose their beverage options from a spa-approved menu.

No matter what the situation, hostesses should be sure to include at least one champagne drink, since it generally goes together well with a spa party. As for munchies, opt for finger foods that are as easy to eat as possible. And don’t forget to take into account all the manicures that guests are likely to be getting, since nobody with freshly painted nails is likely to be digging into any hors d’oeuvres that are difficult to eat.

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Reversing the signs of aging really is as easy as booking an appointment at a licensed medical spa, so long as you know how to choose the right spa and the right procedures for the specific issues you you'd like to see fixed.

Who doesn’t want to look a few years younger? Thanks to technological advances in the medical spa industry, a fresher, more youthful appearance can be just an appointment away.

While many men and women are agonizing over painful plastic surgeries or endlessly purchasing ineffective at-home remedies, more and more beauty experts are realizing that the secret to reversing the signs of aging lies at the medical spa.

That’s because unlike plastic surgery—which costs thousands and often requires weeks of recovery time—or at-home drugstore treatments—which often fail to produce the promised results—medical spas offer effective treatments using medical-grade equipment for a fraction of the cost and without long recovery times.

Patients visit medical spas to treat an endless number of problems, some of the most common of which include wrinkles, dull skin, brown spots, redness, saggy skin, and broken capillaries. Medical spas technicians commonly treat these issues using Botox and other fillers, microdermabrasion, photofacials, chemical peels, and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. In addition, some medical spas offer total-wellness healing, which includes consultations with nutritionists, counselors, homeopathic doctors, and physical trainers.

Of course not all medical spas give patients the same results, which is why patients hoping to erase the signs of aging must know how to choose the best medical spa and the best procedure to correct their ailments before undergoing any treatments.

Finding the Best Medical Spa

For optimal results, patients must visit the very best medical spa they can find. Because these types of spas deal with such new and innovative beauty technologies, it is especially important to make sure that spa staffers have been trained and licensed before undergoing any procedures.

In addition to proper licensing, medical spas should have a medical doctor on staff at all times, since having this physician in residence—should anything go wrong—is one thing that separates a medical spa from a more traditional day spa.

While it may seem awkward to quiz the medical spa technician on his or her licensure, it is important for your safety. This is especially true when it comes to more difficult procedures, such as Botox and laser hair removal, which can permanently injure or scar patients if done incorrectly.

Selecting the Right Procedures

Not every person needs microdermabrasion and not every person needs Botox. What every person does need, however, is to figure out what procedures will work best for them to deliver the desired results. To get the best information on the topic, patients should schedule an in-person consultation with a medical spa technician, who will listen to the patient’s issues and beauty concerns and make recommendations based on the conversation.

Patients should be frank with their technician as to the results they hope to achieve, while spa technicians should be honest with patients as to how realistic these beauty goals really are.

Finally, patients should do a little research on their own about possible procedures they may like to have done before going into the medical spa consultation. Not only will this research give patients an idea of the best types of questions to ask at their consultation, but it may also prevent them from being up-sold—that is, talked into undergoing unnecessary procedures—by aggressive spa workers.

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