The beauty industry has transformed dramatically over the past decade. What once required invasive surgery can now be achieved through minimally invasive procedures at aesthetic clinics. These specialized facilities offer a wide range of treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty, address specific concerns, and boost your confidence.
Aesthetic clinics bridge the gap between traditional spas and plastic surgery offices. They provide medical-grade treatments performed by trained professionals, offering more dramatic results than typical spa services while being less invasive than surgical procedures. Whether you’re looking to refresh your appearance, address signs of aging, or enhance specific features, aesthetic clinics offer numerous options to help you achieve your goals.
This comprehensive guide explores 12 popular beauty procedures available at aesthetic clinics, helping you understand what each treatment involves, who makes a good candidate, and what results you can expect.
Injectable Treatments
Botox and Neuromodulators
Botox remains one of the most popular aesthetic treatments worldwide. This injectable treatment uses botulinum toxin to temporarily relax facial muscles that cause wrinkles and fine lines. The procedure is quick, typically taking 10-15 minutes, and involves small injections into targeted areas.
Common treatment areas include forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows. Results typically appear within 3-7 days and last 3-4 months. Beyond wrinkle reduction, Botox can also treat excessive sweating, migraines, and jaw tension.
The procedure requires minimal downtime, making it perfect for busy schedules. Most people can return to normal activities immediately after treatment, though you should avoid lying down or exercising for several hours post-treatment.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers restore volume to areas that have lost fullness due to aging or genetics. These gel-like substances, typically made from hyaluronic acid, are injected beneath the skin to smooth wrinkles, plump lips, and restore facial contours.
Popular filler applications include lip enhancement, cheek augmentation, nasolabial fold correction, and under-eye hollow treatment. Results are immediate and can last anywhere from 6-18 months, depending on the type of filler used and the treatment area.
The procedure involves minimal discomfort, with most fillers containing lidocaine for enhanced comfort. Some swelling and bruising may occur, but these effects typically resolve within a few days.
Skin Resurfacing and Rejuvenation
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels improve skin texture and appearance by removing damaged outer layers. These treatments use various acid solutions to exfoliate the skin, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath.
Light peels address minor skin imperfections and require no downtime. Medium peels target more significant concerns like sun damage and moderate wrinkles, requiring several days of recovery. Deep peels provide dramatic results but involve longer healing periods.
Common benefits include improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, diminished age spots, and more even skin tone. The specific type of peel recommended depends on your skin type, concerns, and desired results.
Microneedling
Microneedling stimulates natural collagen production by creating tiny, controlled injuries in the skin. This treatment uses a device with fine needles to create micro-channels, triggering the body’s healing response and promoting skin renewal.
The procedure effectively addresses acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines, and uneven skin texture. Most people require 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. The treatment causes minimal discomfort and requires only 1-2 days of recovery.
Results develop gradually over several months as new collagen forms. Many patients notice improved skin texture, reduced pore size, and a more radiant complexion.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser treatments use focused light energy to address various skin concerns. Different laser types target specific issues, from superficial pigmentation to deeper wrinkles and scars.
Fractional lasers create microscopic treatment zones, leaving surrounding tissue intact for faster healing. These treatments effectively address sun damage, age spots, fine lines, and acne scars. More aggressive ablative lasers remove entire layers of skin, providing dramatic results but requiring longer recovery periods.
Treatment intensity and recovery time vary significantly based on the laser type and treatment depth. Your practitioner will recommend the most appropriate option based on your skin type and goals.
Body Contouring Procedures
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat cells without surgery. This FDA-approved procedure freezes fat cells, causing them to die and be naturally eliminated by the body over time.
The treatment targets specific areas like love handles, belly fat, double chins, and thigh fat. Each session lasts 35-60 minutes per treatment area. While you may experience some numbness and tingling during treatment, most people find the procedure comfortable enough to read or use their phone.
Results develop gradually over 2-4 months as the body processes the treated fat cells. Most people see a 20-25% reduction in fat in treated areas. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.
Radiofrequency Body Tightening
Radiofrequency treatments use heat energy to tighten skin and reduce mild to moderate sagging. These non-invasive procedures stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, more toned-looking skin.
Common treatment areas include the abdomen, arms, thighs, and face. The procedure feels like a warm massage and requires no downtime. Most people need 3-6 treatments for optimal results, with sessions spaced 1-2 weeks apart.
Results develop gradually over several months as new collagen forms. Many patients notice improved skin texture and tightness, making this treatment popular for post-pregnancy body changes or age-related skin laxity.
Advanced Facial Treatments
HydraFacial
HydraFacial at Kelly Oriental Aesthetic combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration in one treatment. This multi-step procedure uses a patented device to deliver immediate results with no downtime.
The treatment includes deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation, painless extractions, and intensive hydration. Custom serums address specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or enlarged pores. The entire process takes about 30 minutes.
Results are immediate, with patients noticing brighter, smoother, and more hydrated skin right after treatment. Regular monthly treatments help maintain optimal skin health and appearance.
Oxygen Facial
Oxygen facials infuse the skin with pressurized oxygen and customized serums. This treatment aims to promote cellular regeneration and provide immediate hydration and glow.
The procedure involves cleansing, exfoliation, and oxygen infusion with specialized serums. Many people choose oxygen facials before special events because they provide immediate results with no downtime.
Benefits include improved skin hydration, enhanced radiance, and temporary plumping effects. While results are immediate, they typically last 1-2 weeks, making this treatment ideal for special occasions.
Hair and Scalp Treatments
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal uses concentrated light to target hair follicles, reducing unwanted hair growth. This treatment provides long-lasting results compared to traditional hair removal methods.
The procedure works best on dark hair and can be performed on virtually any body area. Most people require 6-8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. Treatment sensation varies but is generally described as feeling like a rubber band snapping against the skin.
Results develop gradually, with significant hair reduction typically visible after 3-4 sessions. While results are long-lasting, occasional maintenance treatments may be needed to address any regrowth.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Hair
PRP therapy uses your own blood platelets to stimulate hair growth. This treatment involves drawing a small amount of blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the PRP into the scalp.
The procedure is particularly effective for androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness) and can help slow hair loss while promoting new growth. Most people require 3-4 initial treatments followed by maintenance sessions.
Results typically become visible after 3-4 months, with continued improvement over time. Many patients notice increased hair density, thickness, and overall scalp health.
Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp micropigmentation creates the appearance of fuller hair by tattooing tiny dots on the scalp that mimic hair follicles. This treatment is ideal for people with thinning hair, receding hairlines, or those who prefer a buzz-cut appearance.
The procedure involves multiple sessions to build up the desired density and ensure natural-looking results. Each session takes 2-4 hours, depending on the treatment area size.
Results are immediate and long-lasting, typically requiring only minor touch-ups every few years. This treatment provides a permanent solution for hair loss concerns without ongoing maintenance.
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
Selecting the appropriate aesthetic treatment depends on several factors, including your specific concerns, skin type, budget, and lifestyle. A thorough consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential to determine the best approach for your individual needs.
Consider your goals carefully. Are you looking for preventive treatments, corrective procedures, or enhancement? Different treatments serve different purposes, and combining multiple procedures often provides the best results.
Factor in recovery time and maintenance requirements. Some treatments require minimal downtime but need regular maintenance, while others involve longer recovery periods but provide longer-lasting results.
Budget considerations are important, as aesthetic treatments are typically not covered by insurance. Many clinics offer payment plans or package deals for multiple treatments.
Making Your Decision
Aesthetic clinics offer numerous options for enhancing your appearance and addressing specific concerns. From quick injectable treatments to more comprehensive skin rejuvenation procedures, there’s likely a treatment that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
Research potential providers thoroughly, ensuring they have proper credentials and experience with your desired treatment. Read reviews, view before-and-after photos, and don’t hesitate to ask questions during your consultation.
Remember that the best results often come from a combination of treatments rather than relying on a single procedure. A skilled practitioner can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your concerns while maintaining natural-looking results.
Take time to consider your options carefully, and choose treatments that make you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
