"This is My First Treatment!" Where to Begin with a New-to-Aesthetics Patient
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
Welcoming a new patient into your treatment chair is like going on a first date. You both want to make a good impression, have so many questions, and are hoping to find your perfect match. There are many ways to navigate that budding relationship. We asked our practitioner Claire Lebamoff, RN, how she approaches patients who are new to aesthetics.
How do you start with a new patient?
I always start by asking their main concern. I try to focus on being educational, but I also know that can become overwhelming. I talk through a lot of options, but then I always try to narrow it down to 2 final possible starting treatments. For example, I may talk about all our services that could move them toward their aesthetic goals, but then circle back to recommending just a couple. If they ask about one that wasn't in my top 2, I'm always happy to go more in depth on them. Having a complete understanding of all the treatments we offer, who they are best suited to, and combine them for an effective plan is essential in this position.
Some new patients want it all. They're here because they trust us and want "the works" to get their aesthetic journey started. But others may get overwhelmed and you'll need to help them narrow it down.
How do you find that inner authority to assert in the treatment room?
It's not easy! It took me a while to truly grow in that confidence. I can see all the possibilities ahead of them and narrowing it down takes trust. That was what made it finally click for me. I realized that they trust me. They're sitting in the chair because of that trust. They are ready to pursue their aesthetic goals and are looking for help. And they believe that you can help them. I keep that in mind and approach these moments with great humility and intention.
How do you approach misconceptions about treatments?
This definitely happens. I've had patients repeat myths about how treatments and skin health. I always approach with curiosity. I'll ask what makes you think that? or where did you hear that? Not from a place of judgement, but from truly trying to understand where they're coming from. Acknowledge that you hear their concerns, and then be effective in educating them on the truth. This is a time to be concise and move on to what treatments can bring them the results they're working towards.
What do you recommend for someone just starting on their aesthetic journey?
We say this all the time, but it's the truth. The foundation of everything is the skin. The first step is always medical grade skincare. The bare minimum is always SPF, a vitamin C, retinol, and hydration. These ABCs of skincare will set them up for success with any treatments the begin.
Beyond skincare, my favorite starting place for new patients is Microneedling. It's great for so many reasons; it's safe for all skin types, has very low downtime, and allows them to experience a treatment with glowing results. Sure, you're read for a few hours, but back to normal the next day. Plus after Microneedling the skin is stronger and ready for the next level of treatment like MOXI/BBL.
Any final thoughts?
The most important element is to always be open to learning opportunities. I hope I never reach the point where I think I've learned it all. The best way to be a practitioner is to be confidence in your abilities and knowledge while also dedicating yourself to improving your craft and patient care. That's what we're here to do!