5 Ways Med Spas Boost Mental Health

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Month is winding down, a nationwide campaign originally launched by Mental Health America in 1949 to promote mental well-being. Today, more resources have become available in nontraditional ways, and med spas have been improving mental health without most clients realizing it.

The COVID-19 global pandemic brought the importance of mental health resources to the forefront with a 41.1% surge in anxiety and depressive symptoms in U.S. adults. As the dust continues to settle five years later, the mental health crisis in the U.S. is still prevalent.  

Many people do not have access to traditional resources, such as counseling or medication, so they rely on other forms of care — including med spa treatments. While med spas are primarily known to boost physical wellness, the mental aspect is commonly overlooked. Five ways they provide mental health benefits clients may not recognize include: 

1. Increased Circulation
2. Boosted Self-Esteem
3. Improved Sleep
4. Reduced Stress
5. Developed Self-Care Rituals 

Here’s how they do it: 

1. Increased Circulation

Poor circulation is not only a concern for the body. Reduced blood flow to the brain can negatively affect our ability to concentrate, think, and remember. It can also cause chronic fatigue, a sensation of always feeling exhausted or a lack of energy, which influences many to rely on caffeine. This can contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression.  

Med spas combat the negative effects of poor circulation through methods like massage or heat therapies, unblocking passages where blood may not be flowing as freely. This boosts and improves blood flow, raises oxygen levels, and improves lymphatic drainage. Additionally, the relaxing atmosphere of a med spa can elevate moods.

2. Boosted Self-Esteem

Having a negative self-image has a direct link to worsened mental health, as studies have found it contributes to poor quality of life. It affects not only self-perception but leads to poor relationships with others and increased risk of addiction, depression, and anxiety.  

Rejuvenating services like facials or non-invasive cosmetic procedures that enhance looks such as Botox injections serve as confidence boosters, leaving clients feeling more comfortable in their skin and satisfied with their appearance. This, in turn, supports a better quality of life and more positive self-perception. 

3. Improved Sleep

Insomnia is a battle for many but can be exacerbated for people facing anxiety or depressive symptoms. For example, racing thoughts make it difficult to fall asleep due to hyperarousal of the brain. Depression can lead to restless sleep or sleeping too much.  

Med spas equip clients with relaxation techniques that they can incorporate into their nighttime routine to encourage quality sleep. Additionally, aromatherapy, massages, and hot baths promote a state of calm and well-being that prepares the body and mind for a good night’s rest. 

4. Reduced Stress

An overwhelming amount of stress is draining, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that can lead to cardiovascular issues, inflammation, and worsened mental health. 

The tranquility of med spas works to counteract stress. Their offerings such as deep tissue massages and soothing facials not only alleviate muscle tension but release endorphins and serotonin that boosts clients’ moods. Meditation and mindfulness also alleviate stress, lower cortisol levels, and promote relaxation in the face of everyday life struggles.  

5. Developed Self-Care Rituals

When experiencing declining mental health, self-care is typically one of the first things to lose priority. A person is less motivated to take care of their own health when life’s chaotic responsibilities are catching up with them. 

Regardless of what treatment clients undergo at a med spa, maintenance is usually involved for clients to experience the full effect. This encourages clients to incorporate self-care into their daily routine, promoting emotional well-being and more positive mental states through deliberate actions. 

While med spas help clients in looking their best, they also contribute to them feeling their best. Maintaining mental health is a daily practice that can be difficult to tackle alone, but it is essential for overall well-being, productivity, and happiness. Your mental well-being matters — this month and every month. 

The many benefits – mental and physical – of med spa treatments are just one contributing factor to the steady growth of the aesthetics market. Read more about this year's trends to watch in med spa patient expectations, aesthetic treatments, and technology innovations in this blog post.