How at-home devices can aid your in-office treatments
Quite often when watching TV, we see ads for at-home treatments for things like facial rejuvenation, acne treatment and laser hair removal. But are these devices a serious danger to the aesthetic medicine industry?
A discussion in Dermatology Times highlighted an interesting perspective that these home use products could be thought of as adjuncts to regular visits to dermatologists or estheticians. Dr. Judith Hellman, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City stated, “In all honesty…the actual at-home devices are really great, but I think they’re more used as an adjunct to real treatments. I think the best way to use at-home devices is to incorporate them. They are an added benefit, not a threat.” While an at-home treatment cannot replace the optimal results of a professional procedure, these devices can certainly supplement a patient’s progress.
If your patient mentions a desire for the at-home option, don’t feel threatened. The most important advice you can give your patient is to be educated. It is key that you stress the significance of research to your patient. There are many options available for at-home treatments, and not all of the choices deliver on their promises. Encourage your patient to compare various products, including consumer reviews and technological capabilities. Remind them that those technologies are likely not as powerful and results focused as what can be offered at your office. Using them in conjunction with clinical procedures could yield greater results, as well as to maintain results from an in-office treatment.