Questions that make a consultation more useful

A checklist for your consultation

Ask each one and note the answer.

• License and role of the person performing the treatment
• Their training and how often they do this treatment
• The device, product or method being used
• What a series involves and how it is spaced out
• Aftercare instructions and how long they apply
• Possible side effects and how they are handled
• What happens and who pays if something goes wrong
• Total cost in writing before you start

Write it down first

Memory is unreliable when you are in an unfamiliar room with a lot of new information. A short written list keeps the conversation on track.

Put down your medical conditions, medications and supplements, allergies, and any cosmetic treatments you have had before. Add the questions you care about most. If you have photos of a skin concern that changes over time, you can bring those too.

Red flags worth noticing

1. You are told a special offer ends today.
2. No one asks about your health history.
3. Treatment is offered before any consultation.
4. You cannot get a clear answer about who will perform it or what license they hold.
5. The cost changes or will not be put in writing.

Any one of these is a good reason to slow down. State boards in Florida let you look up a license online.