Cosmetic skin procedures have grown more popular in the last few years among the general public. In fact the latest survey data from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery indicates that as many as more than half of consumers are now considering a cosmetic skin procedure to address an issue with their skin and improve their appearance.
This data should catch the attention of dermatologists and skin care professionals alike, particularly since the same survey found that “dermatologists have more influence on a decision to have cosmetic procedures than friends, physician referral or 11 other factors.” This significant finding shows that patients pay attention to what their dermatologists say – and, we’re willing to bet, to the kind of experience a dermatologist can give or recommend to them.
The Patient Experience
In today’s changing healthcare landscape, the experience a patient gets during treatment matters more than ever. Digital reviews and recommendations have made it easier for patients to switch from practice to practice until they find the one that can deliver exactly what they want. Because of this, dermatologists (and any health professionals working in a setting that provides skin treatments) now have a responsibility not only to provide care, but also to provide patients with the experience they’re looking for.
One way you can deliver a quality experience to a patient is to use the best modern equipment available for treatments today. If your office currently offers skin treatments to patients, take a moment to ask yourself:
Does my practice’s equipment address the current market’s demands?
The first step in answering this question is knowing the current market. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery has found that some procedures are currently more popular than others. As of 2014, the cosmetic skin issues that concern potential patients the most are:
- skin texture and/or discoloration
- lines and wrinkles around and under the eyes, and lines
- wrinkles and/or folds in the mid-face around the cheeks and mouth
The survey also found that aesthetic laser treatments were one of the top procedures that respondents would undergo for skin tightening, treating wrinkles or improving the appearance of scars and birthmarks, and to reduce facial redness or improve skin tone or scars.
Meeting These Demands
Given today’s wide range of patient needs and demands, it’s advisable that skin care professionals invest in top of the line – and where possible, multi-purpose – equipment for their practices. For example, modern medical lasers are a good way for skin care professionals to help their patients and address a variety patient needs. Modern medical lasers are an affordable tool that allows dermatologists to address these cosmetic issues and more. In fact, multi-purpose modern medical lasers will give a dermatologist the ability to:
- Carry out laser hair removal procedures that are pain-free and permanent hair removal
- Successfully perform procedures on all skin types without requiring anesthesia or skin cooling,
- Complete aesthetic and rejuvenation treatments such as removing wrinkles or acne scars
- Medically address a range of skin issues, including acne, rosacea and more
Final Thoughts
While there are a number of ways skin care professionals can improve a patient’s experience overall at their practice, using technologies such as a modern aesthetic laser ensures that you’re giving your patients an excellent, effective, and nearly painless treatment option. Offering an option like this will give you a clear advantage in a society where patients have the ability to shop for and compare different treatment options. If you’re ready to set yourself apart from the competition in today’s skin care market, we highly recommend considering updating your aesthetic laser treatment options – we know that your bottom line and your patients alike will thank you!
