Botox, fillers and laser treatments, oh my! Navigating the world of medical spas can feel like entering a labyrinth of overwhelming and confusing treatments. Kayla Hale, physician assistant and owner and CEO of Halestorm Aesthetics, serves as a compassionate, knowledgeable guide to understanding treatment options, what questions to ask when visiting a med spa for the first time and the value of self-care.
With a background in general surgery and emergency medicine, Hale pivoted to specialize in aesthetic medicine nearly a decade ago, bringing a unique blend of medical expertise and artistry to her practice. Hale shared her expertise with MetroFamily on medical spa treatment options, empowering patients to make informed choices on their wellness journeys.
Do most of your med spa patients focus on treatments like injections or lasers?
Most of our patients focus first on medical-grade skincare. If you have skin concerns, don’t feel comfortable makeup free or just don’t know where to start, we offer complimentary virtual consultations. Patients can also book with our aesthetician for a custom facial. She evaluates your skin, uses products based on your needs, answers questions and makes recommendations.
What treatments are popular this fall?
Many people are going to be working on reversing summer pigment with retinols, pigment correctors, chemical peels and lasers in clinic.
IV therapy is going to be important with fall illnesses coming up. We offer six IVs, including immunity, metabolism and hydration, plus we can customize therapies. We can also administer tests for strep, flu, COVID, UTIs and dehydration, as well as do blood work.
What questions should someone ask when going to an injector/aesthetician for the first time?
Especially if you are seeing a practitioner for injections or lasers, ask if they have a medical license and what their medical degree is in — then ask how long they’ve had that degree and how long they have specialized in the field of aesthetics. Those numbers are often different; for example, I’ve been a PA for 10 years but I’ve been injecting for eight.
How do you help your patients reach their goals?
I’m invested in my patients — I spend time with them and truly care about them. I focus on full facial treatment plans, which is typically a 6-to-12-month plan based on their concerns. Sometimes that includes fillers and Botox; or if someone doesn’t want injectables, we focus on skin treatments, lasers and bio stimulators.
Because of my experience, I drive the treatment plan. I recommend having a provider who’s willing to say ‘no’ if a certain treatment isn’t in the best interest of the patient.
What does self-care look like for you as a busy wife, mom and business owner?
I am big on a nighttime routine to help my body relax and ensure I get the rest I need.
I spend most of my days investing in other people, which I absolutely love. But I have to refill my cup to be able to do that every day. And I know I am more patient when I take time for myself.
Editor’s note: Learn more about Halestorm Aesthetics at halestormaesthetics.com.
