Flip through a newspaper or magazine, or switch on the radio or TV, and you’ll be bombarded with ads for skin care treatments. Laser treatments, skin resurfacing, Botox injections, chemical peels and other 21st century innovations really can restore youth and vitality to sun damaged and aging skin, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce unwanted hair.
But all skin care clinics are not created equal. You will find a wide range of services offered, but the qualification and training of the people who provide those services is all over the map. Before committing your money – and your skin – to a treatment, here are a few things to look for:
Trained, professional staff
It is important to remember that these are sophisticated medical treatments that must be supervised by a trained and experienced physician. Look for treatments provided in a medical setting, with qualified physicians in charge. Trained clinicians should take a thorough medical history to provide you with the best possible care and to be aware of any potential for adverse reactions.
Technology
Above all, seek skin care founded on medical science. Look for a clinic type medical spa (not a “day spa”) that employs experienced, medically trained professionals on-site to supervise all treatments. Be sure all equipment is FDA-approved and extensively tested before it is used on clients. Assure yourself that the technicians who use the equipment are thoroughly trained and are supervised by medical professionals.
Summing up – it’s your skin
Erasing years is easier and more affordable today than ever before, and advances in laser technology have made it possible to achieve dramatic results without surgery and with minimal, if any, down time. By doing your homework and checking out the qualifications and background of a medical skin care clinic before you sign up for a treatment plan, you will be assured of a good result – and younger, healthier looking skin for a long time to come.
About the Doctor
I am Dr. Greta McLaren, a board certified physician with over 20 years of experience practicing medicine. I have focused on and specialized in aesthetic medicine for the last 8 years. I started one of the first anti-aging clinics for the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center when I was an assistant clinical professor and employed by University Physician. Our consultations are complimentary and I invite you to come in for a free skin care analysis and to visit our website.
Greta McLaren, M.D. is the medical director and owner of Skin Secrets. She is recognized in the medical community as an expert on a variety of skin care procedures, including cosmetic procedures, aesthetic laser and light devices, and cosmetic fillers. She has been teaching other physicians for many years the art of aesthetic medicine and lasers.
