How To Open a Med Spa in California: A Complete Guide

California sunshine, glowing skin, and a booming med spa scene — sounds pretty dreamy, right? 

But between the beach vibes and Botox parties, there's a whole lot of “How do I?” for aspiring med spa owners. Don't worry; we're here to break down the essentials of opening a med spa in California.

So, aspiring entrepreneurs, let’s get ready to turn your med spa dream into a reality.

Please note: Moxie works with many pharmaceutical companies who provide injectable neuromodulators from various brands. Moxie does not recommend nor endorse Botox over any other brand of neuromodulator.

Step 1: Understand California laws and regulations

Before you begin, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework. Think of it like picking the perfect beach house — you need a solid foundation.

Professional corporation requirements

• Skip the LLC: California law dictates med spas must be Professional Corporations (PCs). This is a business structure specifically designed for healthcare providers.
• Registered personnel: PCs must be owned by licensed medical professionals like doctors, nurses, or therapists. This ensures medical expertise guides your services.

We recommend consulting a business lawyer specializing in healthcare to help navigate the legalities with ease. They'll ensure your PC is set up correctly and compliant with California regulations. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended to consult with your respective state board, a licensed attorney, or your malpractice carrier to ensure that you are practicing within the letter of the law and adhering to all regulatory requirements. The regulations regarding aesthetic treatments and medical spas can vary from state to state and may change over time.

Moxie can even help guide you through this process. Let's chat about how we can help.

Ownership rules

California has specific rules about who can own a med spa. Knowing these ensures you're on solid ground and sets your business up for success.

In California, only licensed physicians can hold majority ownership of a med spa. This ensures a medical professional oversees all medical procedures. While non-physician professionals such as nurse practitioners or physician assistants can have ownership stakes, the majority ownership must be held by a licensed physician.

Non-physician professionals (like aestheticians or managers) are still important though. Consider establishing a Management Services Organization (MSO). This separate entity, owned by non-physicians, can handle the non-medical aspects of your med spa, like marketing or staffing. 

It's a win-win — you get their expertise while adhering to California's ownership regulations.

Medical spa services regulations

California prioritizes patient safety in med spas, and with good reason. This section will help you provide treatments safely and compliantly by talking about who can do what:

• Injections of Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Daxxify, and Jeuveau are for the medically qualified. Only licensed physicians, physician assistants, or registered nurses under a physician's supervision can administer them.
  
  
• Laser hair removal in California can only be performed by licensed physicians or under their direct supervision. This means that registered nurses and physician assistants can carry out these procedures, but only if a physician is supervising them.
  
  Cosmetologists, estheticians, and other non-medical personnel are not allowed to independently perform laser hair removal​.
  
  
• More invasive procedures require a physician or supervised medical professional. Their expertise ensures safety and optimal results.
  
  
• For non-invasive treatments like microdermabrasion, licensed aestheticians can work their magic. They're experts in these types of procedures and can help your clients achieve a radiant glow.

Try this idea: Clearly outline the qualifications of your staff on your website and marketing materials. This transparency builds trust with potential clients and showcases the expertise behind your services. 

Step 2: Develop a comprehensive business plan

Picture this — chic ambience, happy clients, and a thriving business. A well-crafted business plan is your roadmap to make that vision a reality.

Define your business goals

Focus on building a strong foundation. Set short-term goals (achievable within a year) like securing your location, establishing core services, and attracting a steady clientele.

Your mid-term goals span over 5 years and will help you expand. Aim for goals like adding new services, growing your team, and establishing a loyal client base.

For those long-term goals (say 10 years), think big. Maybe you envision opening additional locations or becoming a leader in the California med spa industry.

A good business plan also outlines what your target market looks like.

Who are your ideal clients? Young professionals looking for anti-aging treatments? Busy moms, who want a quick filler pick-me-up session? Understanding their demographics, needs, and desires is key.

Try to give yourself a competitive edge by defining what it is that makes your med spa stand out.

Do you offer cutting-edge technology? Focus on holistic wellness? Identifying your unique selling points (USPs) helps attract the right clients.

Market research is your best friend here. Conduct surveys, analyze competitor offerings, and stay up-to-date on industry trends. This valuable intel will inform your target market and USP, giving your business plan a solid foundation. 

Plan your services

It's time to curate the perfect menu of services. This is where your med spa's personality comes to life.

Leverage your market research to identify the services your ideal clients crave. Are they looking for neuromodulators and dermal fillers? Or perhaps they want weight loss and body contouring treatments?

Your medical director's expertise is invaluable. They'll advise on treatments that align with California regulations and your spa's focus.

Try and begin with a curated selection of popular services that cater to your target market. This allows you to refine your offerings and establish a strong reputation.

Don't limit yourself. Plan to gradually expand your menu based on client demand and industry trends. This keeps your med spa exciting and caters to evolving client needs. You could get creative and offer unique service packages that combine treatments for a well-rounded experience. This can incentivize clients and boost your revenue. 

Step 3: Legal setup and compliance

Choose the right business structure

Remember, LLCs are a no-go. In California, med spas must operate as Professional Corporations (PCs). Only licensed medical professionals can form these corporations, such as physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants​.

 A lawyer can help you navigate the formation process and ensure your PC is set up correctly.

Once your PC is formed, it's time to make it official with the California Secretary of State. This registration process legitimizes your business and allows you to operate within the state.

Consulting a lawyer specializing in healthcare law is an excellent investment. They'll guide you through the legalities, ensuring your PC formation and registration are smooth sailing. Another option? Partner with Moxie.

Obtain necessary licenses and permits

Now that your PC is established and registered, it's time to collect the official badges of honor — your licenses and permits. These demonstrate your commitment to compliance and allow you to operate legally.

Look into getting these licenses:

• Depending on the services you offer, you'll need to apply for medical licenses for your medical director (physician) and any other medical professionals on staff.
• Don't forget about general business licenses. These may vary depending on your location, so check with your city or county for specific requirements.
• California has specific regulations for med spas. Understanding and adhering to these ensures patient safety and the smooth operation of your business. Resources from the California Medical Board are a great place to start.

The licensing and permitting process can involve some paperwork. Don't be discouraged. Stay organized, use online resources, and consider consulting a business lawyer specializing in healthcare law. 

Acquire insurance

Unforeseen events can happen in even the most established businesses. Having the right insurance protects you in such circumstances.

These are the kinds of insurance to consider:

• Professional liability (malpractice): This insurance safeguards your business if a client alleges a medical professional made a mistake during treatment. It's vital for any med spa offering medical procedures.
• General liability: This broader coverage protects your business from various potential mishaps like a client slipping and falling on your premises.
• Property insurance: This safeguards your physical space, equipment, and supplies in case of fire, theft, or other covered events.

Don't skimp on insurance. Consult an insurance broker specializing in the healthcare industry. They'll assess your specific needs and recommend a robust insurance package that protects your business effectively. 

Ensure legal compliance

We've secured the necessary licenses, permits, and insurance, but our journey to legal compliance doesn't end there. This step ensures you have the right systems in place to protect patient privacy and maintain a safe work environment for your staff.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) safeguards patient medical information. Develop clear and concise HIPAA-compliant patient consent forms that explain how you handle their data.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes safety standards for workplaces. Develop and implement OSHA-compliant workplace guidelines that cover areas like biohazard handling, proper equipment use, and emergency procedures. 

Legal compliance can feel overwhelming, but there are resources to help. Use online resources from the Department of Health and Human Services (HIPAA) and OSHA to understand your obligations. Additionally, consulting a lawyer specializing in healthcare law can provide valuable guidance. 

Step 4: Secure a medical director

Your dream med spa can't operate without a medical director, the licensed physician who oversees all medical procedures and ensures patient safety. 

This step empowers you to find the perfect medical director who aligns with your vision and elevates your California med spa.

Remember, California law mandates a licensed physician as your medical director. They'll provide medical oversight, ensure adherence to regulations, and ultimately be responsible for the quality of medical care provided at your spa.

Look for a medical director who shares your passion for the aesthetics industry and possesses the specific expertise you need. Do they specialize in injectables? Laser treatments? Finding someone who aligns with your service offerings is key.

Step 5: Find the perfect location

Your dream med spa deserves a dream location. You need the perfect spot that attracts clients, reflects your brand, and sets your business up for success.

Accessibility is key. Prioritize locations with easy access by car or public transportation. Ample parking is a major plus, ensuring clients can breeze in and out for their appointments.

High visibility is ideal. Consider areas with good foot traffic or situate yourself near complementary businesses like salons or fitness centers.

The location should complement your brand identity. A modern, upscale spa might thrive in a trendy neighborhood, while a spa focused on wellness might suit a calmer, more suburban area. Try and analyze demographics, competitor locations, and rental rates in your desired area. Consider using online tools or consulting a commercial real estate agent to find hidden gems and negotiate the best lease terms. 

Step 6: Obtain equipment and supplies

Source high-quality equipment and supplies that elevate your treatments. This is an investment for an excellent med spa. The specific equipment you'll need depends on the services you offer. This could include laser devices for hair removal or skin rejuvenation, microneedling tools, and injection supplies.

Remember that you don’t have to invest a huge amount upfront and purchase this equipment –– you could always rent it to begin with.

Aside from equipment, invest in comfortable treatment beds, luxurious linens, and high-quality skincare products for retail or use during treatments.

Partner with reputable medical equipment suppliers who can offer guidance, ensure proper maintenance, and provide ongoing support. 

Step 7: Develop your online presence 

Create a professional website and implement effective online marketing strategies to captivate your target market in California.

A professional website is your online storefront. It should be informative, visually appealing, and user-friendly. Showcase your services, highlight your team's expertise, and provide clear booking options.

Regularly updated, high-quality content establishes you as an industry authority. Blog posts about skincare trends, treatment explanations, and photos can educate and engage potential clients.

Consider hiring a professional photographer. High-quality images showcasing your spa's ambiance and equipment, as well as happy clients, will leave a lasting impression on potential clients. 

Embrace the power of social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Regularly post engaging content and run targeted ads to reach your ideal demographic.

Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive online reviews. Positive reviews build trust and credibility, influencing potential clients to choose your med spa.

Moxie Pro tip: Search Engine Optimization (SEO) will help optimize your website content with relevant keywords to improve your ranking in search engine results. This increases organic traffic and positions your med spa at the forefront of potential clients' searches. 

Important advertising note: Unless you have a LegitScript certification, you aren’t allowed to conduct any explicit advertising of Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Daxxify, Jeuveau, or other injectables like these using their brand names. These are prescription-only medicines (POM) and cannot be promoted on social media or websites by anyone except licensed pharmacies or resale companies. Also, avoid using before-and-after photos, any photos with blood or of a graphic nature, and photos of needles that are blocked on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Step 8: Launch and promote your med spa

The moment you've been waiting for — your California med spa is ready to open its doors.

Develop a marketing strategy

Develop a clear and concise marketing strategy that resonates with your target market. What makes your med spa unique? Highlight your exceptional services, experienced team, and commitment to client satisfaction.

Use a variety of marketing channels to reach your ideal clients. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are powerful tools for showcasing your services and running targeted ads. 

Email marketing allows you to nurture leads and keep existing clients informed about promotions and new offerings. Don't forget the power of local advertising in newspapers and community magazines.

Consider collaborating with local influencers or beauty bloggers to promote your spa. Partnering with complementary businesses, like salons or fitness centers, can also expose you to a wider audience. 

Try and sweeten the deal for your clients with promotions that pop. Attract new clients with enticing introductory offers or package deals. Loyalty programs reward repeat business and incentivize clients to return for future treatments.

Customer engagement

Okay, so your clients are pouring in. But remember, exceptional customer service is what keeps them coming back for more.

Take steps like these to boost customer engagement:

• Train your staff to prioritize exceptional customer service. This means being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to each client's needs and concerns. A warm welcome, clear explanations of procedures, and personalized treatment recommendations go a long way.
• Actively listen to each client's goals and desires. Understanding their unique needs allows you to tailor treatment plans and product recommendations, ensuring a truly personalized experience.
• Empower your staff to go the extra mile. A handwritten thank-you note after a treatment or a birthday discount can create lasting positive impressions. 
• Consider leveraging the power of positive online reviews. Encourage satisfied clients to leave glowing reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Responding to positive and negative reviews professionally demonstrates your commitment to client satisfaction.

Showcase positive reviews and client testimonials on your website and social media platforms. Social proof builds trust with potential clients and positions your med spa as the go-to destination for beauty and wellness. We recommend you don’t shy away from asking for reviews. Make it easy for clients to leave feedback by providing them with a link or QR code after their appointment. 

Step 9: Ensure smooth operations

Document protocols and procedures

Develop detailed protocols for all services offered at your spa that outline step-by-step instructions, safety precautions, and best practices. This ensures consistency, quality, and client safety across all treatments.

When your staff has clear, documented procedures to follow, training becomes more efficient. Protocols serve as a reference guide for new hires and a refresher for experienced staff.

Consider using digital tools to manage your protocols. Cloud-based software allows for easy access, updates, and version control. 

Also, consider developing a comprehensive employee handbook that outlines your company policies, expectations, and benefits. This handbook serves as a clear reference point for your staff.

Create clear and concise consent forms for all procedures offered at your spa. These forms explain the treatment, potential risks and side effects, and client expectations. Obtaining informed consent protects your business and ensures clients understand the procedures they're undergoing.

We recommend you regularly review and update your employee handbook and consent forms to ensure they reflect current practices and regulations.

Maintain compliance and quality control

Compliance and quality control is essential. Your med spa needs to adhere to the latest regulations and consistently deliver exceptional service.

The legal and regulatory landscape can shift. Schedule regular reviews (quarterly or annually) to ensure your spa remains compliant with all applicable California regulations. This could involve permits, licenses, waste disposal procedures, and data privacy practices.

Don't wait for an inspection to identify issues. Proactive self-audits can help you catch and address potential problems before they snowball.

Consider subscribing to industry newsletters or alerts to stay informed about regulatory changes. 

Invest in ongoing training opportunities for your staff to ensure they stay up-to-date on the latest techniques, technologies, and safety protocols. This not only elevates the quality of services offered but also keeps your staff engaged and motivated.

Regularly monitor service quality through client feedback surveys, mystery shopper programs, or peer evaluations. Identifying areas for improvement allows you to refine your processes and ensure clients consistently receive exceptional service.

You could have regular team meetings where staff can discuss challenges, share best practices, and suggest improvements.

How to open a med spa in California: Some examples

Citrus Aesthetics

Jessica, a California-based Physician Associate with a dream, wanted to launch her own med spa: Citrus Aesthetics. Her skills and passion for aesthetics were undeniable, but navigating the launch process in California, a state with its own specific regulations, seemed daunting.

That's where Moxie stepped in. "Moxie provided the business insight and experience to make it a reality," Jessica shared. Our comprehensive support went beyond the bare minimum. We secured a compliant California location, connected her with local specialists like a medical director and insurance brokers, and ensured her practice met all state requirements.

From software setup to supplier negotiations, Moxie guided Jessica through every step.

The result? A thriving California-based med spa. Citrus Aesthetics not only achieved profitability within the first month but also had a series of perfect online reviews. Jessica's dedication, coupled with Moxie's expertise, turned her vision into a booming med spa.

Wonder Aesthetics

Chance Wonder, RN, owner of Wonder Aesthetics, is a highly skilled Aesthetic Nurse Injector with a unique background. His expertise in Trauma Surgical Intensive Care and experience as a travel ICU nurse during the pandemic translated to a deep understanding of facial anatomy and patient safety. 

However, Chance's true passion was in art, granting him a meticulous eye for detail and balance – a crucial skill in aesthetics.

Challenge: While Chance had the skills and passion to excel in aesthetic medicine, launching and managing a successful practice presented a new set of hurdles. Marketing, patient acquisition, and navigating the complex regulatory landscape were unfamiliar territories.

Solution: Moxie stepped in as a comprehensive solution provider. Our expertise ensured a smooth launch by assisting with California's regulatory processes, expediting a successful opening, and providing ongoing compliance guidance. This allowed Chance to focus his energy on what he does best – delivering exceptional patient care.

Impact: Moxie Suite, Moxie's practice management software, streamlined Wonder Aesthetics' operations. Appointment scheduling, patient intake forms, inventory management, and secure communication tools empowered him to deliver exceptional service efficiently.

Need help launching a med spa in California? Moxie can help.

We hope this guide helps answer your questions about how to open a med spa in California. Our goal is to support you at every step of the way.

Moxie empowers aspiring med spa owners in California to navigate the complexities of opening and running a thriving practice. We'll help you turn your vision into reality, all while ensuring you comply with California regulations.

Here's how Moxie can help you launch your med spa:

• Find a medical director without hassle: Moxie can pair you with the right and qualified California-based med spa medical director for your practice through our extensive network of professionals.

• Simplify compliance: Moxie provides pre-made consent forms and protocols crafted by industry-leading lawyers and MDs to reduce your legal consultant fees.

• Marketing done for you: Moxie manages everything from website creation (under your brand) to targeted advertising that drives new clients through your doors.

• Hands-on, expert coaching: Our dedicated coaches meet with you regularly to support your growth, give you hands-on help, and guide you through the process of growing your med spa.
  
  
• Software that’s built for med spas: From online appointment scheduling to charting to text message marketing and memberships — we’ve got you covered. With Moxie, it’s easier than ever to run your business and wow your clients.

‍Book a free strategy session today and see how we can help.