The Role of GLP-1-Based Drugs in
GLP-1-based drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, are becoming essential in medspas. These medications are highly effective for significant weight loss and improving metabolic health. They are popular because they offer convenience, affordability, and treatments with minimal downtime.
Opportunity for Med Spas
“This trend is a great opportunity for medspas to adjust their services,” says Dominic Mazzone, CEO of Medspa Partners in Toronto. Medspas can now offer a broader range of aesthetic and wellness services, which appeals to those seeking holistic health and beauty solutions. For instance, treatments like fillers and body contouring can address side effects such as rapid fat and muscle loss.
Impact on Treatments
The introduction of semaglutide drugs has significantly impacted body contouring and skin tightening treatments. Alex Thiersch, CEO of the American Med Spa Association, notes, “After COVID, the industry rebounded and stabilized. Adding semaglutide for weight loss, along with IV drips and hormone therapies, has greatly influenced many medspas. Our data shows that around half of medspas now offer weight loss solutions.”
Adapting to Consumer Demands
Medspas that incorporate GLP-1 treatments demonstrate their ability to adapt to consumer needs. “GLP-1 medications complement treatments like injectables and body contouring,” says Rich Morgan, President of LightRx Face & Body. These drugs reduce visceral fat, which can lead to skin laxity. Patients who combine GLP-1 treatments with body contouring often see excellent results.
Enhancing Patient Satisfaction
Combining treatments not only reduces side effects but also improves patient satisfaction. Audrey Neff, Director of Marketing at PatientNow, observes, “Medspas using these medications have seen increased patient engagement. By supporting GLP-1 patients from the start, medspas can offer additional wellness services, including hormone and IV therapy. This approach helps retain patients and boost satisfaction.”
Rising Demand for Body Contouring
As the use of GLP-1 drugs grows, so does the demand for complementary treatments. Gabe Lubin, Founder and CEO of Cartessa Aesthetics, explains, “Weight loss from these drugs often doesn’t target specific areas and may cause muscle loss. This increases the demand for non-invasive body contouring and, in some cases, surgery. Providers are meeting these needs by offering additional treatments.”
Surgical Solutions
The rise in GLP-1 drug use has also increased the demand for surgical solutions. Sheila Nazarian, M.D., a plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, states, “Patients often need skin tightening and facial volume replacement after weight loss. Even medspas without advanced lasers or surgical tools can benefit. Fillers can effectively address facial volume loss.”
Regulatory and Safety Challenges
The growing use of GLP-1 drugs raises concerns about regulation and safety. Randi Boyette, CEO of Spark Medical Marketing, highlights the need for ethical guidelines. “There’s worry about over-prescription, especially with unregulated compounded versions. Practitioners need to be cautious to avoid problems like excessive use and muscle loss.”
Looking Ahead
Medspas must ensure they treat patients ethically and effectively, says Clint Carnell, Founder of OrangeTwist. “It’s important to educate patients about GLP-1 medications and the need for a balanced diet. Collaborating with other healthcare providers is crucial for a holistic approach to care.”
The Promising Future
The future of GLP-1 medications in medspas looks bright. Dr. Franco adds, “The demand for these medications remains strong. As manufacturers increase supply, new weight loss and muscle-building drugs will enter the market. Long-term use will likely create ongoing needs for treatments that address side effects like skin laxity. Integrating weight loss with wellness and aesthetics is a growing trend. Advances in diagnostic tools now allow for more personalized and effective treatment plans. This ensures that integrating weight loss, wellness, and aesthetics will continue to thrive.”
