Why Dermatologists Lead the Way in Patient Retention

Dermatologists have the most loyal patients in aesthetics at an 85% retention rate—and it’s no accident. A 2024 McKinsey & Company report found they lead the industry in patient retention thanks to their unique ability to treat both medical and cosmetic concerns under one roof. By building long-term relationships rooted in trust and clinical expertise, they create the kind of patient experience that many medspas struggle to replicate. 

7 Reasons Dermatology Patients Show Higher Retention Than Medspa Clients

Here’s a closer look at what sets dermatology practices apart—and why their patient retention strategies consistently outperform medspas and aesthetic wellness clinics:

1. Long-Term Patient Relationships

Dermatologists care for both medical and cosmetic skin concerns, which naturally creates continuity in the patient relationship. Their role as a trusted expert in overall skin health encourages patients to return regularly and leads to higher patient satisfaction.

2. Holistic Approach to Skin Health

Dermatologists' expertise in diagnosing and treating skin conditions makes them a trusted source for both rejuvenation and maintenance. They integrate medical-grade skincare and preventative care creating a comprehensive, long-term treatment plan.

3. Higher Perceived Credibility

Patients often view board-certified dermatologists as the most qualified to perform aesthetic procedures. Their medical background reassures patients and reduces the likelihood of them seeking treatments elsewhere from potentially less-qualified providers.

4. Less Transactional, More Relational

While medspas tend to be more sales-driven, dermatology practices focus on continuity of care. Patients are less likely to switch providers because they view their dermatologist as a long-term partner in skin health.

5. Broad Service Offerings

Dermatologists offer a mix of medical, laser, injectable, and prescription-based skincare treatments. This variety allows them to adjust treatment plans over time, keeping patients engaged and satisfied.

6. Fewer Pricing Wars & Discounting

Medspas often rely on promotions and discount-driven campaigns to attract new clients, which can lead to a transactional, deal-seeking mindset. Dermatologists position their services around proven patient outcomes and long-term results. Patients prioritize quality over price—and stick around because of it.

7. Medical Insurance Crossover

Some patients initially visit a dermatologist for insurance-covered medical treatments, then transition into aesthetic services, creating natural and ongoing patient loyalty.

How to Apply Dermatology’s Loyalty Tactics to Your Aesthetic Practice

So how do you harness the best practices of dermatologists to increase patient retention and loyalty in your own aesthetic practice? Here are six strategies to implement today:

1. Give New Patients Context and Confidence

• Ensure staff members highlight provider qualifications when scheduling.
  
• Send a personalized welcome email that includes:
  
  • Provider bios, credentials, and your practice's aesthetic philosophy
  • Overview of available services and FAQs
  • What to expect during their visit (paperwork, appointment flow, photo protocols)
  • Patient testimonials and before/after transformations
  • Pre-visit Aesthetic Intake Questionnaire (AIQ), if applicable‍

2. Create Meaningful Patient Engagement at Every Touchpoint

• Greet patients by name and reference personal details they’ve shared.
• Maintain a consistent tone and experience across all patient communication: phone, email, and in-office visits.
• Foster an environment where patients feel seen and valued—not just sold to.

3. Use Smart Intake Forms to Uncover Needs & Root Causes

• Use patient-friendly language on AIQs/CIQs and avoid clinical jargon.
• Include images where possible to help patients identify concerns.
• Review responses during the consult and ask questions to explore goals, concerns, and potential roadblocks.

4. Educate Visually and Effectively

• Use mirrors, photos, and software to visually demonstrate skin concerns and treatment potential.
• Share before-and-after photos to set clear expectations.
• Provide printed or digital educational materials to reinforce information post-consultation.

5. Co-Create a Collaborative Treatment Plan

• Emphasize a "treat to complete" mindset.
• Outline treatment steps, timelines, and expected outcomes.
• Respect patients’ time and budget while still delivering high-value results.

6. Proactively Book and Follow Up

• Schedule the next treatment before the patient leaves the appointment.
• Personally follow up after consultations and treatments to check in.
• Offer encouragement throughout their patient journey—be their biggest cheerleader.

The Moxie Advantage in Patient Retention

Dermatologists have long led the way in building trust-based, long-term patient relationships—and Moxie makes it easy for aesthetic practices to do the same.

From smart intake and personalized consultations to automated follow-up and proactive rebooking, Moxie helps you deliver the kind of high-touch experience that keeps patients coming back. Every Moxie supported practice is paired with a dedicated Launch Coach and an expert Provider Success Manager for one-on-one strategy sessions, data-driven business and financial health reviews, and hands-on marketing guidance and execution.

It’s not just about retention—it’s about building a brand rooted in expertise, consistency, and care.

Ready to turn loyalty into your competitive edge? Book your call with Moxie today and see how we make it happen.

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