Talk to a provider about skin treatments

Four kinds of skin treatment, in plain terms

When a med spa lists skin treatments, it usually means some mix of the following. Names and menus differ from one provider to the next.

• Facials. A hands-on service built around cleansing, exfoliating and masks. Some add steam or extraction.
• Chemical peels. An acid-based solution applied and then removed. Peels come in several strengths.
• Microneedling. A pen-like device with fine needles passed over the skin, sometimes with a serum.
• Light-based treatments. Devices such as intense pulsed light or LED panels that deliver light to the skin.

A licensed provider looks at your skin and history before suggesting any of them.

A short checklist for the provider's side

When you sit down for a skin consultation, expect the licensed provider to work through a quiet checklist. Skin type and tone. Current concerns. Health conditions, especially anything affecting the skin or healing. Medicines and supplements. Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Recent sun or tanning. Past treatments and any reactions.

From that, they decide which treatments are reasonable to discuss, which to rule out, and which to leave for later. You can ask to hear their reasoning. If something on the list does not apply to you, say so. If something worries you, ask before agreeing to anything.

On the day

A few small steps make the day of a skin consultation easier. Ask beforehand whether to arrive with a clean face, and allow time to remove makeup if needed. Bring your list of medicines and products, your notes on past treatments, and your questions. Wear something comfortable with an open neckline if the neck or chest is part of what you want to ask about.

During the visit, take notes or ask if you can. If the provider suggests a treatment, ask what it involves, what aftercare looks like and what side effects to watch for. You do not have to decide on the spot.

Questions about skin treatments

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