Ask Charmayne | What Are the Differences Between a Medical Spa & Day Spa?

Q – CHARMAYNE, WHY DOES RENEW CALL ITSELF A MEDICAL SPA? IS THERE REALLY A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MEDICAL SPA AND A DAY SPA?
A –
You’re looking for a spa because you want to relax, be pampered and heck – while you’re at it – take care of those fine lines and wrinkles popping up out of nowhere (that’s literally how it happens, right?).
But not all spas are created equal – especially medical spas and day spas – so let’s talk about the differences and which one is right for you.
What Are The Differences Between A Medical Spa & Day Spa?
When you hear the word spa, you’re probably imagining relaxation, tranquility and soothing music.
And that is definitely the goal of most spas.
But one of the biggest differences between a medical spa and day spa is in the results you’re seeking.
MEDICAL SPA
A medical spa – like Renew – wants you to not only feel good, we want you to look good as well (if that’s your goal, of course!).
THEREFORE, A MEDICAL SPA (OR MED SPA) OFFERS THESE DISTINCT DIFFERENCES —
- A med spa has a medical director that not only oversees the operation, but usually performs medical treatments like BOTOX® and filler injections, and other advanced skincare services as well as vaginal rejuvenation.
At Renew, Dr. Rochelle Elijah acts as the owner and medical director!
- Along with a medical director, med spas have Medical Aestheticians (that’s me, Charmayne!) that have added training to perform more aggressive skincare treatments like dermaplaning, microneedling, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser hair removal.
- You’ll typically see medical-grade skincare products at a med spa as well. Products like these offer a higher strength of active ingredients that can potentially create significant results for your customized treatments.
- Therefore, the treatments you’ll find at a medical spa are geared towards creating results for you which can be achieved with medical-grade skin rejuvenation and tightening, body sculpting, laser hair removal, injections and fillers and intimate health.
DAY SPA
Day spas are all about your comfort!
- A medical director is not required for a day spa and most likely you’ll see various people — including estheticians, cosmetologists, and resort or spa management companies — own and operate these businesses (depending on the laws for each state).
- A day spas goal is to help you feel relaxed and comfortable from start to finish by offering skincare services and body and wellness treatments that are non-medical.
- You’ll see that day spas offer everything from facials and massages, to waxing, lash and brow, spray tan, make-up application and nail services. You may even see that some day spas offer light medical treatments like microneedling or chemical peels – this all depends on state laws and varying factors.
I hope this helps you understand the differences between a medical spa (like Renew) and a day spa.
Both offer unique services for your specific desires.
And sometimes if you’re looking for specific results — a med spa could be just the type of spa you’re looking for!
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