Page 10 - Katten Kattwalk and Kattison Avenue - Winter 2026 - Issue 5

Med Spas at the

Intersection of Beauty,

Wellness and Law

By Anthony Del Rio and Julia DeVincenzi

edical spas (commonly called “med spas”) blend the clinical
capabilities of an aesthetic medical practice with the hospitality
and branding of a luxury spa. They typically offer nonsurgical
Mcosmetic procedures such as neuromodulators and fillers, laser hair
removal and skin resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, body contouring
and increasingly, IV therapy and weight management injectables. Although many
offerings feel “spa like,” a substantial portion of med spa services constitute
the practice of medicine in most states, which means they must be ordered,
performed, or appropriately delegated and supervised by licensed clinicians. This hybrid identity drives consumer
appeal and growth, but also invites a complex overlay of healthcare regulation, advertising rules and heightened
enforcement.

Why Med Spas Matter to Fashion: Image, Influence and Integration
The med spa industry has become increasingly intertwined with fashion, beauty and entertainment, evolving
from a niche wellness service into a core element of the aspirational lifestyle promoted by influencers and luxury
brands. For models, stylists, creative directors, influencers and brand executives, med spas provide practical,
repeatable interventions that deliver camera-ready results with minimal downtime, aligning with demanding
calendars, frequent travel and visual performance standards. At the same time, social media platforms have
accelerated this shift, giving rise to “medical influencers,” or dermatologists and plastic surgeons who showcase
aesthetic treatments alongside designer looks. Collaborations between fashion brands and med spas increasingly
include VIP events, backstage “glam” readiness activations and loyalty programs. Influencer marketing and user-
generated content further amplify this convergence.

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