What is the Difference Between a Medical Spa and a Day Spa?

These days, life is moving faster than ever, and it seems many people are seeking ways to relax and step back from the hurried pace. A trip to the spa is an inviting and welcoming way to calm down your body and your mind. Although traditional day spas offer relaxing services like massages and manicures, medical spas take it one step further by offering advanced services that will give you longer-lasting results and confidence. There are some similarities between medical spas and traditional spas, but the differences lie in the training/expertise of the providers.

What is a Medical Spa?

A medical spa marries the inviting atmosphere of a day spa with medical-grade procedures and options. Medical spas differ from day spas because they offer services that are overseen by trained medical practitioners. At Renew Medical Spa, we offer esthetic services that rejuvenate and refresh the body and the soul. Our holistic approach offers patients non-surgical options and effective skincare treatments that are sustainable and effective. Our medical director is a board-certified provider, and he is joined by a laser and injectable-certified physician assistant. Our talented and caring team is rounded out by our Certified Advanced Estheticians (CAE) who are estheticians certified by the Oregon Health Licensing Authority. CAEs must meet specific criteria, including at least 500 hours of instruction, and passing a written exam from The American Board of Laser Surgery. Many spas may claim to be medical spas, but it’s important to seek out one that is backed by training and experience because of the intricacy of the esthetic procedures

Is a Medical Spa Safe?

Your safety is paramount when it comes to your skin, and you want to entrust it to the best of hands. That’s why many people have safety at the forefront of their minds when they seek out a medical spa they can feel comfortable in. You will be glad to know that medical spas need to meet certain criteria to protect the safety of their patients. Medical spas function as medical offices, and that means that they must abide by the same regulations that govern medical procedures. The Oregon Health Authority requires that medical spas must perform “an evaluation to establish the appropriate diagnosis and treatment, obtaining informed consent prior to treatment, and maintaining proper documentation and patient confidentiality.” (Source). In addition, American Med Spa points out that OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requires medical spas to be trained in seven areas:

  • Bloodborne pathogens—exposure control plan
    • Hazard communication
    • Record-keeping
    • Slips, trips, and falls
    • Tuberculosis
    • Workplace violence
    • Laser safety. (Source)

These important boundaries and regulations are what keep medical spas effective and welcoming spaces.

Is a Medical Spa right for me?

If a medical spa sounds too clinical for you, consider booking our complimentary one-hour consultation to better understand the relaxing and healing atmosphere. Many people call medical spas a “hybrid” of a day spa and a surgery center, but you will truly be able to relax when you visit us. We will also provide you with professional support and a non-judgmental attitude, and become your long-term teammate in your rejuvenation journey. A medical spa is right for you if you want to experience the anti-aging and confidence-boosting effects of treatments like:

  • CoolSculpting®
  • Laser Hair Reduction
  • Dermaplaning
  • Chemical Peels
  • SkinTyte
  • Botox

Medical spas also offer high-quality skincare and makeup products, coupled with staff that can help guide you to the appropriate choices for your skincare needs. Because the caring team at a qualified medical spa are all trained professionals, you can trust them to help you choose products that suit your lifestyle and your individualized needs.

Trust, empathy, compassion, and competency are hallmarks of a quality clinic, and you will find all three at Renew Medical Spa. We are the premier destination for Southern Oregon patients seeking renewal and healing, and our safety standards set us apart from traditional day spas. Next time you are looking for a relaxing spa day combined with a medical-grade treatment, consider making an appointment at Renew. Call us today at (541) 524-4418.

Please note that the above information is intended to be observed as guidelines and is not intended to be a substitute for or construed as informed medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of licensed skincare professional with any questions you may have regarding facial skin and health.

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