Medspa Magic

How are medspas elevating the field to the next level? 

Medspas combine traditional spa services with medical-grade aesthetic treatments under the supervision of a doctor. In addition to facials and lashes, we also offer advanced cosmetic treatments like lasers, deeper peels, and injectables. 

What treatments are most in-demand for your clients?  

Our most-requested treatment is laser hair removal, because we’ve managed to establish a strong presence in that space. Due to our YouTube channel, @auds_beauty_adventures, we have clients who fly in for their scalp laser hair removal treatments. We also offer a few unique facial treatments that keep our loyal clients coming back regularly for them. Our ARNP is specialized in weightl oss and has seen some great success with those treatments. Some of our other favorites are brow threading, peels and lash lifts! 

Are there any industry trends you have noticed? 

What’s fun about esthetics is that it is forever-changing! I’ve noticed a shift towards clients appreciating more pharmaceutical-grade products versus just anything they find in store. More potent, powerful ingredients are taking center stage now that clients are learning to research more about what they are buying. They appreciate receiving a more customized skincare routine. There is also a shift to a more natural-looking approach to injectables versus the overdone look that was popular a few years ago. Wellness-focused treatments like our wellness duo, which incorporates gua sha and lymphatic drainage, as well as massage on the face and scalp are on the rise. I think that clients are realizing the value of feeling good and how that can affect your mental health and, as a result of that, your physical appearance. 

What advice would you give an esty just starting out? 

Learn as much as you can from as many people as possible! I think I was able to develop a successful business because I learned what I liked and didn’t like from past bosses and jobs. Learn the same thing from multiple people and take pieces of each and make it your own. Harness what you’re personally good at. Not everyone has a relaxing vibe and not everyone is going to get every last blackhead out of their clients’ skin. It’s about realizing what you’re good at and growing from there. 

How important has marketing and branding been for your business? Any tips? 

Marketing and branding, I will admit, has been a struggle. I recently moved locations (same building, new suite) and decided to take the opportunity to rebrand a bit. I opened my business over 11 years ago and it was time. I wanted a bolder logo and something that embodied our original 1920’s vibe but drew in something a little more modern as well. The response to our style change was great. Clients loved it and I think it will benefit the business long-term. As far as marketing, that constantly changes as trends and social media change. I also recently began a strategy with a new person and it seems to be heading in the right direction. This industry has changed tremendously in the past five years with competitors popping up everywhere and staying relevant is so important. 

How do you choose which products/treatments/tools/tech to use? 

I recently rebranded my products as well. I use private label companies for my skincare line. I’m obsessed with the quality of those products. I’ve changed a few times over the years because, like anything else in esthetics, things are always changing and getting better.  

As far as machines go, I’m a big believer in having the best laser for hair removal which, in my opinion, is the Candela GentleMax Pro. I also use a few machines for facials that I tried first as a demo and liked, so I went ahead and purchased it. I’m careful with what I buy because it obviously has to make sense for the business. Machines are expensive and sometimes so are the consumables. You also have to look at the demand for that particular treatment and decide if all of that factored in makes sense. I’ve made mistakes and learned expensive lessons. 

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned, as both an esthetician and a business owner? 

Don’t trust reps. It sounds terrible but they don’t have your best interest at heart. Do your research for yourself and have them put everything in writing when you do make a deal. 

How do you envision the future of esthetics as the industry evolves? 

I have no idea and that’s both scary and fun to me! It’s hard to predict trends and sometimes there are trends that I just personally don’t like or believe in so I keep my head down and keep doing what I like and do best.