Three kinds of body treatment
When a med spa lists body treatments, it usually means one of three things.
Body contouring. A device applies energy, often cold or heat, to a chosen area over a set time. Providers use different devices and applicators for different areas.
Cellulite treatments. Methods include devices that use sound waves, radiofrequency or suction, and hands-on techniques. Some providers offer injectable options where state law allows.
Lymphatic massage. A light-pressure massage done by hand, following a set pattern over the body.
A licensed provider decides which, if any, is suitable.
Health conditions that matter
Some health details change what a provider will suggest for body treatments. Heart conditions, circulation problems, pacemakers and other implanted devices, metal implants, and some nerve conditions all matter for certain devices. Conditions triggered by cold matter for cooling devices. For lymphatic massage, a provider will ask about heart, kidney or blood clot history, and any active infection.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding usually rule out many body treatments for now. Bring a full health and medicine list, and mention anything you are unsure about. A licensed provider weighs it and decides what is suitable.
Questions to have ready
Bring these questions to a body treatment consultation:
- Which method or device would you suggest, and why?
- Who will perform it, and what training do they have?
- How many visits do people usually have, and how far apart?
- What sensations should I expect during and after?
- What side effects are possible?
- How is cost worked out for a series?
Cost is set by each provider, so ask at the consultation. You can find more ideas on the questions to ask page.
Questions about body treatments
What counts as a body treatment?
At a med spa, body treatments usually mean non-surgical services such as body contouring devices, cellulite treatments and lymphatic massage. Contouring devices apply cold, heat or other energy to chosen areas. Lymphatic massage is a gentle manual technique. A licensed provider explains what they offer.
Who should skip body contouring?
A licensed provider decides that. Common reasons to wait or skip a device include pregnancy, recent surgery in the area, a hernia, some implanted devices, and conditions that react to cold. Bring your full health history and medicine list to the consultation.
What are cellulite treatments?
They are a mixed group. Some use devices with radiofrequency, sound waves or suction. Some are hands-on techniques. Some providers offer injectable options, which are given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask what method a provider uses and how it works in general terms.
Ask your questions first. A local provider can contact you by phone, text or email.
Ask a providerMore consultation topics
Ask about your skin
Tell a local provider what you would like to discuss about your skin, and they can talk through treatments with you.
Injectables
Wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers, given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask a local provider about them.
Laser hair removal
Find out what a session involves, how to prepare and how to care for your skin afterward.