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.
Device choice and the area
Body contouring devices come in several types. Some use cold, some use heat or radiofrequency, and some use other energy such as ultrasound or magnetic fields. Each has applicators shaped for certain areas. A licensed provider chooses based on the area, your skin, the tissue, and your health history.
Ask which device they use and why it fits the area you are asking about. Ask whether they have more than one type. If they say a device is unsuitable for you, ask what would be, including whether a doctor's visit makes more sense.
Getting ready for a body treatment consultation
A few notes make a body treatment consultation more useful:
- the area or areas you want to ask about
- your health conditions, especially heart, circulation, nerve or skin conditions
- implanted devices or metal implants
- medicines and supplements, including blood thinners
- recent surgery, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- any past body treatments and how you found them
Bring the notes, photo ID and your questions. A licensed provider uses them to decide what is suitable.
Questions about body treatments
Are body treatments the same as surgery?
No. The body treatments on a med spa menu are non-surgical, with no incisions or general anesthesia. If you want to ask about surgery, a surgeon is the right person to see. A licensed provider at a med spa can tell you when that is the case.
What is lymphatic massage?
It is a gentle, hands-on massage technique using light, slow strokes in a set pattern. A provider will ask about heart, kidney and blood clot history, infections and recent surgery first. If you have a diagnosed condition such as lymphedema, ask whether your doctor should be involved.
How many visits do body treatments take?
It depends on the method, the area and the person. Many body treatments are planned as a series, and the number varies. A licensed provider can tell you what is typical for a given method after a consultation, without promising a set number.
A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you. Send a request to begin that conversation.
Request a consultMore consultation topics
Facials, peels, microneedling
Each skin treatment works differently. A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you.
Injectables
Rules on who can give injectables are set by South Carolina. A consultation with a licensed provider comes first.
Laser sessions
Curious about laser hair removal? Request a consultation with a provider in or near Charleston and ask your questions.