Medical spas are facilities that blend cosmetic medical procedures and spa services. They offer minimally invasive treatments like Botox injections, laser hair removal, chemical peels, and injectable fillers. These procedures are performed by licensed medical professionals like doctors, nurses or physician assistants. Medical spas also provide relaxing spa services like massages and facials. The goal is to offer beauty treatments in a relaxing, luxurious setting with a medical focus on safety and effectiveness.

Growth of the Medical Spa Industry Pre-Pandemic

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the medical spa industry was growing rapidly. According to the International Medical Spa Association, the global medical spa market size was valued at $9.4 billion in 2019 and was projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% from 2020 to 2027. Rapid growth was fueled by an increased desire for anti-aging treatments and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. More people also wanted to improve their wellness and quality of life through spa experiences. Medical spas offered convenient access to both beauty treatments and relaxation therapies. Their growth reflected changing consumer priorities around health, wellness, and self-care.

Pandemic Challenges and Shifting Trends

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, it brought immediate challenges to the Medical Spa. Spa operations were deemed non-essential in many regions and locations were temporarily closed to comply with lockdown and social distancing mandates. This led to a significant loss of revenue. Consumer spending became more restricted and discretionary expenses were reduced or delayed. Safety also became a top priority, requiring facilities to implement new sanitization and PPE protocols. While reopening brought some recovery, medical spas had to adapt their operations and offerings to the post-pandemic environment.

A Focus on Services Over Experience

During the pandemic, many medical spas pivoted to focus more on essential medical services rather than the full spa experience. Treatments like injectables that could be performed quickly gained popularity as people wanted visible self-care results. Laser hair removal also remained popular. Facilities minimized wait times, removed frills like massage chairs, and eliminated services like facials that involved prolonged close contact. The goal was efficient, contactless service delivery rather than an immersive spa environment. Convenience and safety took priority over a relaxing ambiance.