Stand out with superior results by understanding the GLP-1 revolution sweeping through your treatment rooms. If you haven't had a client mention Ozempic, Wegovy, or other GLP-1 medications yet, grab your favorite body brush because it's coming faster than you can say "rapid weight loss." These medications are creating a whole new client profile that needs your expertise more than ever. While we're not medical professionals (and neither are you, unless you've got an MD hidden next to your gel polish collection), we can absolutely address the aesthetic side effects and help clients feel confident in their changing bodies.
Your clients are coming to you with questions, concerns, and skin that's behaving differently than it did last month. They're losing weight rapidly, which sounds great until their face starts looking deflated like last week's birthday balloon and their skin has more loose folds than your treatment room laundry. This is where you become their skincare superhero - no cape required, though a stylish spa apron definitely completes the look.
What Exactly Are Clients Asking About GLP-1 Services?
When clients mention they're on GLP-1 medications, they're usually either thrilled about the weight loss or panicking about the "Ozempic face" they read about online. Your job is to be the voice of reason and the provider of solutions. Start by asking about their experience: how long they've been on the medication, what changes they've noticed in their skin, and what specific concerns are keeping them up at night (other than maybe the medication's occasional nausea side effects).
Many clients don't realize that rapid weight loss affects everything from their skin's elasticity to their facial volume. They might need dermaplaning to combat new texture issues or hydrodermabrasion to address sudden dryness. The key is listening more than talking - at least until you've assessed what their new-normal skin actually needs.
The Non-Medical Questions You Should Absolutely Be Asking
While you can't ask about their medical history or specific dosage, you can absolutely inquire about observable changes. "Have you noticed any differences in your skin's texture since starting your weight management program?" is perfectly appropriate. So is "How has your skin been responding to your current skincare routine?" These questions help you understand what's happening without crossing into medical territory.
Also ask about their self-care habits. Many clients on GLP-1 medications experience changes in their appetite and energy levels that might affect their consistency with skincare routines. Some might be skipping steps because they're just not hungry for anything, including their serum application. Others might be dealing with new skin sensitivities they never had before.
Red Flags: What to Gently Avoid in Conversations
Here's where we put on our professional hats (preferably a comfortable spa headband rather than a judge's wig). Never, ever recommend adjusting medication dosage or suggest they stop taking prescribed medications. That conversation belongs between them and their doctor, not between their facialist and their suddenly-visible cheekbones.
Avoid making promises about "fixing" side effects that are actually medical concerns. If a client mentions persistent nausea, significant hair loss, or other systemic issues, gently suggest they consult their prescribing physician. You're there to support their aesthetic journey, not manage their medication side effects - unless those side effects involve dry skin that could use some sugar scrub love.
Building Your GLP-1 Ready Service Menu
Now for the fun part: creating services that actually help these clients! Think about treatments that address skin laxity, sudden dryness, and loss of facial volume. Microcurrent treatments are fantastic for toning facial muscles and providing that non-invasive lift. Combine them with radio frequency for skin tightening, and you've got a powerful combo that addresses multiple concerns at once.
Don't forget the body! Clients losing significant weight often struggle with skin texture changes and need regular salt scrubs or body wraps to maintain smooth, hydrated skin. Pressotherapy can help with lymphatic drainage and circulation, which is especially helpful for clients who might be less active during rapid weight loss.
Stock Your Treatment Room for Success
Your product inventory needs a GLP-1 glow-up too. Invest in rich body creams and intensive oils for suddenly-dry skin. Compressed sponges are perfect for gentle application on sensitive skin. And since many clients experience changes in nail health, having quality nail treatments on hand is essential.
Consider adding hot stone therapy to your offerings - the warmth can be comforting for clients who might be experiencing muscle loss or general discomfort. Plus, who doesn't love warm stones? They're like hugs from the earth, and who couldn't use more of those?
Creating the Ultimate Client Experience
Remember that clients on GLP-1 medications are often navigating significant physical and emotional changes. Your treatment room should be a sanctuary where they feel understood and supported. Start with comfortable spa bedding and consider adding extra bolsters for support as their body changes.
Your consultation process should be more thorough than ever. Use a magnifying light to really assess skin changes and take the time to explain what you're seeing and how you can help. This builds trust and shows you're committed to their journey, not just their transaction.
What About Maintenance and Long-Term Care?
Many clients don't realize that the skin changes they're experiencing require ongoing attention. Educate them about the importance of consistent professional treatments and home care. Recommend products from trusted brands like Tuel Skincare or Murad that address their specific new concerns.
Consider creating package deals that encourage regular maintenance. Maybe it's a series of lash lifts to keep their eyes looking bright as facial fat changes, or monthly brow laminations to frame their evolving face. The goal is providing ongoing support that makes them feel cared for throughout their entire journey.
Handling the Tough Questions with Grace
Some clients might ask if you think they should be on these medications. Your answer should always be some variation of "I'm not qualified to make medical recommendations, but I'm absolutely qualified to help you look and feel your best regardless." Then pivot to talking about that amazing paraffin treatment that will make their hands feel incredible.
Other clients might express concerns about weight regain if they stop the medications. While you can't predict their medical future, you can emphasize that healthy skin care habits and regular professional treatments will benefit them no matter what their weight does. It's about building self-care routines that last longer than any medication trend.
Your New Revenue Opportunity
Let's talk business for a moment: clients on GLP-1 medications often need more frequent and diverse services. They might book facial treatments to address new texture issues, body treatments for skin tightening, and even sunless tanning to help them feel confident as their body changes.
This is your chance to become their go-to expert for all things aesthetic during their weight loss journey. Stock up on waxing supplies from brands like ItalWax and Cirepil, since many clients maintain more frequent hair removal appointments as they feel more comfortable showing skin.
The Bottom Line: Serve, Don't Judge
At the end of the day, your role is to serve your clients with professionalism, expertise, and zero judgment. Whether they're using GLP-1 medications, counting calories, or training for marathons, your job remains the same: help them look and feel amazing in the skin they're in today.
Keep your towel steamer full, your essential oils diffusing, and your consultation skills sharp. The GLP-1 trend isn't going anywhere soon, and your ability to adapt and serve these clients will set you apart as a true professional in our ever-evolving industry.
%20-%20Your%20Complete%20Spa%20Professional's%20Guide){kind=link}