So You Want To Work At A Medical Spa

If you're thinking about a change in career and like to work with people, a job at a medical spa might be what you need. There are several positions that range from a low-skilled clerical job to years of education as a managing physician. Not only can the job be rewarding and well paying, but also there's always the chance of getting a great employee discount on the procedures offered. Here are some of the positions that are available.

Receptionist: If you are skilled with computers and familiar with such programs as Microsoft Word, Office, Excel, and Outlook you may want to apply for a position as a receptionist at a medical spa. The receptionist screens all phone calls and answers basic questions regarding services, pricing, and the menu. They also set appointments, consultations, and follow-ups. Often times they may have to deal with complaints from clients, so they must have some basic knowledge of the procedures available (the technicians can provide information and training) and have a patient ear.

Therapist: When people visit a medical spa, they aren't only there for wrinkle fillers or laser treatments, but many like to have a combination of procedures. This often includes less invasive services such as those that a beauty therapist would provide. Traditional facials, using various masks, massages, and pore unclogging techniques are common offerings. Aromatherapy and traditional massage are used to relax clients. Depending on the size of the facility, other beauty services may be available including manicures and pedicures, waxing, and hair styling. To become a licensed cosmetologist, the rules vary by state and specializations, but generally require two or more years of study and practical experience in the industry.

Aesthetician: A step above a beauty therapist or cosmetologist, an aesthetician often works alongside physicians at a medical spa and provides more in-depth treatments such as injectable fillers to eliminate wrinkles, laser resurfacing, permanent hair removal, and microdermabrasion. They administer procedures, monitor the client's progress if multiple sessions are required, and recommend aftercare and products that are useful. Education and training to become an aesthetician is similar to that of a cosmetologist. However, additional courses and training will be required to learn how to administer advanced procedures.

Physician: While not necessarily a constant presence, every medical spa is run under the guidance of a qualified physician. Often times, it is a plastic surgeon that is more familiar with the treatments, but any licensed doctor can run this type of facility. For certain procedures, they will be present, if not administer it themselves. They must be on hand for consultations and follow-ups as well as any problems that may arise. Sometimes a physician will work between two or more facilities. It takes several years (often up to a decade) to become a physician. While most future doctors generally start their education very early on, there are really no age limitations. Older students with first degrees in science-related subjects or who have had work experience in a similar field can be as successful as their younger peers.