How coronavirus is affecting dermatologist visits and spa visits

Dermatology offices and spas are closed due to COVID-19we've spent the last few months making DIY face masks, Disguise like no one needs and navigation through random telemedicine reception. Needless to say, we couldn't be more excited that offices reopen. However, for the safety and health of both patients and skin care professionals, the meetings will be slightly different from what we remember. 

To find out what to expect, Dr. Bruce Moskowitz, Oculoplastic Surgeon from Specialty Aesthetic surgery in New York recommends consulting a physician or spa before prescribing. “Patients need to find out what their visit will look like, and if they are not sure if the appropriate measures have been taken, ask questions,” he says. "If you still feel insecure, go somewhere else." 

Below, Dr. Moskowitz, along with other skincare experts, outlines the changes being made to their practice to ensure the health and safety of all involved. 

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Dr. Moskowitz's practice is to pre-screen coronavirus symptoms before patients arrive to reduce the chance of transmission. Dr. Marisa Garshik, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, says you may also be asked about your travel history as part of a pre-screening.

Temperature check

Celeste Rodriguez, beautician and owner Celeste Rodriguez Skin Care in Beverly Hills, says her clients can expect to have their temperature taken upon arrival. “Anything above 99.0 and we will ask you to reschedule,” she says.

Social Distribution

Dr. Garshik says the practice in which she sees patients, MDCS: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, will try to avoid having patients sitting in waiting rooms, taking them to treatment rooms as soon as they arrive. That's why it's important to arrive on time and contact the office prior to your appointment to see if you need to have a pre-screening or complete any paperwork at home.

To help with social distancing, Josie Holmes, a beautician from SKINNY Medspa in New York says, "Like other companies, we have decided to limit the number of people allowed in the spa, which means extended appointments, choice of treatment options, and less staff availability at the start." 

Guests and personal belongings 

You may be asked to come to the appointment alone and with a small amount of personal belongings. “Plyusniks, visitors and children will not be allowed during this time,” says Rodriguez. "We ask customers not to bring extra items such as wallets and extra clothing." 

Protective gear

“The doctor and staff will be wearing personal protective equipment, which may include masks, face shields and gowns,” says Dr. Garshik. Patients should also probably wear a face mask in the office and keep it on when possible during treatment or examination. 

Office improvements

“Many offices are also installing air purification systems with HEPA filters, and some are also adding UV lamps,” says Dr. Garshik. Both can help mitigate the spread of germs and bacteria in offices. 

Recording Availability 

“We will be doing thorough sanitization throughout the day and between services,” Holmes says. That's why you can probably expect fewer appointments available at this time. Dr. Garshik adds that there may also be waiting lists for appointments. “We will need to prioritize emergency visits and surgeries for skin cancer or those on systemic medications as some of these visits may have been canceled or delayed during the lockdown,” she says.

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