The popularity of day spas in the United States continues to boom, evident in the over 12,000 spa locations that now exist nationwide, according to the International SPA Association. 

While day spas continue to be the most popular segment of the spa industry, medical spas have become the fastest growing sector of the industry, and it does not appear to be slowing any time soon.  Data from the National Consumers League finds nearly 90 million Americans currently use or have used anti-aging products or procedures, but not satisfied with result of over-the-counter results, patients are seeking more effective solutions from spas and medical spas.

A study by Medical Insight finds that 60 million non-invasive aesthetic treatments per year will be performed by 2006.  In 2004, around $650 million was spent on equipment  needed for the procedures alone, and the market, according to Edge Systems Corp., is expected to grow as much as 25 percent annually over the next five years.

Baby boomers make up 28 percent of the U.S. population, and sales of anti-aging products are especially popular among the group, in addition to cosmetic procedures.  Combining spa and medicine allows people to benefit from minimally invasive treatments in surroundings that are more inviting and comfortable.  Patients can still have procedures performed by medical experts, but also enjoy benefits offered by spas, such as plush robes and serene surroundings.   

The combination of spa and medicine offers other advantages besides relaxing settings.  One of the goals of medical spas is to reach cosmetically desirable results, but also to maintain the results.  In order to achieve this goal, some medical spas are adding more wellness into their treatments to emphasize things like overall health, including nutrition, which naturally enhances a patient and can help a patient feel better overall. 

Today, trying to look good physically is only one side of things – people are concerned about achieving overall wellness.  As popularity of the procedures continue to rise, the variety of clientele is also expanding.  Once thought of a luxury for older, rich women, men are now one of the fastest growing sectors.  According to the ISPA 2004 Spa Industry Study, men now make up 23 percent of all spa visits and purchases. 

For more information on cosmetic procedures, please contact us.