The first thing you'll notice that's different about a medical spa is its focus on overall wellness. The purpose of these spas is not simply to provide a day of pampering, but can help you achieve many different aesthetic goals that can help contribute to your overall health and well-being. Medical spas offer a variety of services that can address many different issues. Often times a custom package can be created in order for you to achieve maximum results.

Medical spas differ from normal spas in that they are overseen by a board-certified plastic surgeon or other qualified medical doctor. The staff is professionally trained in a variety of fields including laser technology and chemical peels. Many also hire professional masseuses, beauticians, and other experts to provide the best possible service. Medical spa service menus will vary, but here are a few of the more common options you can expect.

Laser Treatments

There are many different types of laser treatments available, many of which will involve multiple sessions over a longer period of time for optimal results. Popular choices include laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, and spider vein removal. When asking about these options, you should also inquire about the equipment and types of lasers used.

Chemical Peels

These are like extreme facials and can vary in intensity. Most people choose medium peels, which help burn off the topmost layers the skin, revealing the fresh, unblemished cells beneath. Peels can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, sun damage, and age spots. Recovery may take a few days or even a week, so don't expect to walk out of the spa looking your best until after you've had time to heal.

Microdermabrasion and Facials

If you're looking for less intense procedures, many medical spas offer mild facials and microdermabrasion that produce great results. Microdermabrasion uses a wand with a rotating abrasive disc attached to one end. The disc is gently rubbed across the surface of the skin, loosening and removing the dead cells to reveal newer cells beneath. After repeated use, microdermabrasion may be able to reach problems that lie in deeper levels such as acne scarring and sun damage.

Botox and Facial Fillers

These cosmetic procedures help reduce and eliminate signs of ageing such as wrinkles, fine lines, and hollow areas. Facial fillers can plump up deep lines and sunken facial features such as near the cheeks and beneath the eyes. There are many different products, but all have temporary effects lasting between four to six months. Botox eliminates fine lines by temporarily paralyzing the muscle that creates the unwanted line.

Before choosing to undergo any medical spa services, check to ensure that the medical doctor is readily available in case of emergencies and that the staff is trained, experienced, and that the establishment has all necessary licenses and certifications.