What Sets Medical Aesthetics Apart from a Spa Treatment? A South Bay Perspective
If you live in the South Bay, whether it’s Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo, or beyond, you’re probably no stranger to self-care. From beachfront yoga to boutique wellness studios and luxury day spas, there are endless ways to relax and rejuvenate. But when it comes to truly transforming your skin and achieving long-term aesthetic results, medical aesthetics offers something spa treatments simply can’t match.
At Pier Medical Aesthetics in Hermosa Beach, we often get asked: “What’s the difference between a medspa and a regular spa?” It’s a great question, and the answer lies in a combination of advanced technology, medical oversight, and results-driven care.
1. Medical Oversight: The Key Difference
Unlike traditional day spas, medical aesthetics practices operate under the supervision of a licensed medical professional. At Pier Medical Aesthetics, Dr. Douglas Mest, MD, a board-certified physician with over 25 years of experience in aesthetic medicine, oversees all clinical treatments. This means we’re able to offer advanced procedures that require medical-grade products, devices, and protocols, something a typical spa simply isn’t licensed or trained to provide.
2. Advanced Treatments, Backed by Science
Day spas are ideal for relaxation, think facials, massages, and aromatherapy. But if you’re looking to address deeper skin concerns like:
- Fine lines & wrinkles
- Sun damage & pigmentation
- Acne & acne scarring
- Volume loss
- Skin laxity
- Rosacea
Then medical aesthetics is the answer.
At Pier Medical Aesthetics, we offer science-backed treatments like:
- BioStimulants like Sculptra and Radiesse
- Botox® and Dysport® for dynamic wrinkle reduction
- Dermal fillers (Juvederm®, Restylane®, RHA®) for volume and contouring
- Morpheus8 RF Microneedling for tightening and resurfacing
- IPL Photofacials and Clear + Brilliant® for pigmentation and texture
- SkinPen® microneedling for collagen induction
- Medical-grade skincare and custom treatment plans
- Chemical Peels
These treatments go beyond surface-level pampering to stimulate real change at the cellular level.
3. Customized Care with Long-Term Results
Spa treatments tend to offer one-size-fits-all services designed for relaxation. While there’s nothing wrong with that, medical aesthetics is rooted in personalization. Our South Bay patients receive tailored treatment plans based on their skin type, goals, lifestyle, and even seasonal factors (yes, what works in winter may not be right in summer!).
Our team combines deep clinical expertise with an artistic eye to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results. Whether you’re preparing for an event, treating a skin condition, or just want to feel more confident in your own skin, your treatment plan is all about you.
4. Safe, Regulated Environment
All treatments at a medical aesthetics clinic must comply with strict safety and sterilization standards. At Pier Medical Aesthetics, we adhere to rigorous protocols to ensure your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. Plus, because we are a medically directed practice, any adverse reactions or concerns can be addressed immediately by licensed professionals.
5. From South Bay Locals, For South Bay Locals
We love the sun-soaked lifestyle of Hermosa Beach and the surrounding South Bay, but let’s face it, the California sun can take a toll on your skin. That’s why our treatments are specifically curated to combat photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and skin dehydration caused by beach life and outdoor living.
We’re proud to serve a diverse and vibrant community of patients, from surfers and soccer moms to professionals and retirees, all seeking to look and feel their best, with real results and no downtime.
Experience the Difference at Pier Medical Aesthetics
Ready to explore how medical aesthetics can elevate your skincare and beauty goals? Whether you’re new to cosmetic treatments or looking for a trusted provider in the South Bay, we’re here to help you feel confident, empowered, and refreshed.
