A medspa experience should be relaxing, rejuvenating, and stress-free—but if you’re new to the world of medical aesthetics, you might have a few questions about proper Spa Etiquette.

How early should you arrive? What should (or shouldn’t) you do before an appointment? Is tipping expected? Knowing these do’s and don’ts will help you get the most out of your visit and ensure a smooth experience for both you and your provider.Whether you’re visiting for Botox®, laser treatments, facials, or body sculpting, here’s your ultimate guide to Spa Etiquette at a medspa.

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TLDR – Quick Guide

• Arrive on time – 10-15 minutes early for first-time visits.
• Communicate clearly – Share skincare concerns, allergies, and preferences.
• Turn off your phone – Keep the space calm and distraction-free.
• Follow pre-treatment guidelines – Avoid alcohol, certain medications, and sun exposure.
• Respect aftercare instructions – Your results depend on proper post-treatment care.

Spa Etiquette: Do’s & Don’ts for a Seamless MedSpa Experience

Do: Arrive Early (Especially for Your First Visit)

If it’s your first time at a medspa, arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork, discuss your medical history, and ensure a relaxed, unhurried start to your appointment.

For follow-up visits, arriving on time is key to respecting your provider’s schedule.

Pro Tip: If you’re running late, call ahead—most medspas have a grace period, but arriving too late may result in rescheduling.

Don’t: Wear Heavy Makeup or Skincare Products

For treatments like facials, microneedling, or laser procedures, it’s best to arrive with a clean face (no makeup, sunscreen, or lotions). Your provider will cleanse your skin before starting, but coming in fresh speeds up the process.

Skip self-tanners before laser treatments—some treatments aren’t safe for artificially bronzed skin.

Do: Communicate Any Concerns or Allergies

Be open with your provider about:

• Your skincare goals (anti-aging, acne, hydration, etc.)
• Any allergies or sensitivities (especially to numbing creams, latex, or skincare ingredients)
• Medications or supplements you’re taking (some may increase skin sensitivity or bruising)

Honest communication ensures safe, customized treatments tailored to your needs.

Don’t: Bring Extra Guests (Unless Necessary)

Most medspas prefer one-on-one consultations to keep the space calm and professional. If you’re bringing a guest, call ahead to check the policy—some locations allow a friend or partner in the treatment room, while others do not.

Children and pets are typically not allowed for safety reasons.

Do: Follow Pre-Treatment Guidelines

Different treatments have specific pre-care instructions, but here are some general spa etiquette rules to follow before any medspa procedure:

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine 24 hours before injections (prevents excessive bruising).
• Pause retinol and exfoliants a few days before peels or laser treatments (reduces irritation).
• Limit sun exposure before laser treatments or microneedling (prevents burns and pigmentation issues).
• Stay hydrated—healthy, hydrated skin heals better and responds well to treatments.

Your provider will give you specific pre-care instructions for your treatment—follow them closely!

Don’t: Expect Instant Results for Every Treatment

While some treatments (like facials or dermal fillers) show immediate results, others (such as laser skin rejuvenation or microneedling) require multiple sessions and time for collagen to rebuild.

Patience is key—trust the process and follow your provider’s recommendations for the best results.

Do: Respect Aftercare Instructions

Post-treatment care is just as important as the treatment itself. Depending on your service, you may need to:

• Avoid direct sunlight and use SPF religiously.
• Skip intense workouts for 24-48 hours after Botox or fillers.
• Hydrate and moisturize to aid skin healing.
• Follow cleansing guidelines (some treatments require waiting before washing your face).

Not following aftercare can impact your results—listen to your provider’s advice!

Don’t: Assume Tipping is Required for Every Service

Unlike traditional spas, where tipping is standard, medspas are medical facilities offering clinical treatments.

• Tipping is generally expected for facials, massages, and aesthetician-led treatments.
• Tipping is optional (but appreciated) for laser treatments and chemical peels.
• Tipping is not expected for medical procedures like injectables (Botox, fillers, PRP).

When in doubt, ask the front desk about the tipping policy—they’ll be happy to guide you!

Do: Schedule Follow-Ups as Recommended

Many treatments work best in a series or require maintenance for long-term results. Before leaving your appointment, ask:

• How many sessions will I need?
• When should I come back for the best results?
• What products can help maintain my results at home?
• Consistency is key to getting the most out of your medspa treatments!

Key Takeaways

• Spa etiquette starts with arriving on time, following pre-care guidelines, and respecting aftercare.
• Communicate openly with your provider about your skin goals and any sensitivities.
• Tipping varies—it’s expected for facials, but not required for medical procedures.
• Follow up as recommended for long-term skincare success.

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