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When it comes to enhancing beauty and wellness, many people are unsure of whether to go to a medical spa (medspa) or a traditional spa. While both provide rejuvenating experiences, understanding their differences is crucial, especially if you seek results beyond relaxation. Let's break down the distinctions to help you choose the best option for your needs. What Is a MedSpa? A medspa, or medical spa, is a fusion of a traditional spa and a medical clinic. It offers a relaxing environment while providing advanced, non-surgical aesthetic treatments under the supervision of licensed medical professionals such as physicians or nurses. Medspas specialize in treatments that address skin concerns, anti-aging, and body contouring with medical-grade technology and products. What Is a Spa? A traditional spa, on the other hand, focuses on relaxation, pampering, and holistic wellness. Spas offer treatments such as massages, facials, and body therapies designed to reduce stress and refresh the skin. While some skin treatments are available, they are typically non-invasive and aimed at maintenance rather than corrective results. Key Differences Between a MedSpa and a Spa 1. Services Offered One of the biggest differences is the type of services available. Medical Spa Services Injectables  (Botox, Dysport, Dermal Fillers) - Reduce wrinkles, restore lost volume, and enhance facial contours. Microneedling  - Stimulates collagen production for improved skin texture and tone. Dermaplaning  - Uses a surgical scalpel to exfoliate dead skin and remove fine vellus hair. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy  - Platelets are drawn and isolated from the patient (autologous treatment) so that they may be used as either a topical application and/or injectable material to rejuvenate the skin and/or stimulate hair growth using the body's natural growth factors. Biofiller  - A natural filler derived from the patient's own blood, promoting collagen production and volume restoration. Body Contouring  - Non-invasive treatments like ultrasound cavitation or minimally invasive procedures like awake liposuction help shape the body and reduce fat. Laser Treatments  - Address concerns such as hair removal, acne scars, and pigmentation issues. Medical-Grade Facials  - Tailored for conditions like dehydration, hyperpigmentation, or aging, often incorporating advanced serums and devices. Weight Management & Wellness Therapies  - Includes peptide therapy, vitamin injections, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for overall health optimization. Traditional Spa Services Massages  - Techniques like Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone for relaxation and muscle relief. Facials  - Focused on relaxation, cleansing, and light exfoliation without medical-grade technology. Body Wraps & Aromatherapy  - Enhance relaxation, detoxification, and skin hydration. Hair Spa Treatments  - Scalp massages, deep conditioning, and essential oil applications to improve hair health. Manicures & Pedicures  - Nail care services incorporating massages and moisturizing treatments. 2. Supervision & Expertise Medical Spa Treatments are performed or supervised by licensed medical professionals such as physicians or nurse practitioners with independent practice, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Requires specialized training and certifications for advanced aesthetic procedures. Offers personalized care plans based on medical expertise for transformative treatments. Traditional Spa Services are provided by licensed estheticians, cosmetologists, massage therapists, and nail technicians without medical oversight. Focuses on relaxation and general skincare without advanced aesthetic procedures. Services are designed for temporary rejuvenation rather than transformative treatments. 3. Products & Equipment Medical Spa Uses FDA-cleared/approved medical devices and medical-grade products. Treatments involve advanced technology such as lasers, injectables, and collagen-stimulating therapies. Provides medical corrective care with transformative results. Traditional Spa Uses non-medical-grade skincare products. Equipment is designed for relaxation and general skincare rather than advanced corrective treatments. Offers non-medical skin texture improvements and hydration. 4. Goals & Results Medical Spa Focuses on corrective treatments and long-lasting transformative results. Targets specific concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles, volume loss resulting in sagging skin, acne or surgical scars, and fat reduction. Treatments aim to enhance both appearance and overall confidence long-term. Traditional Spa Performs services primarily focused on relaxation and temporary rejuvenation. Helps with stress relief, self-care, and general skin maintenance. Facials focus solely on temporary improvements in appearance. Medical Spa for Wellness and Beyond Medspas are expanding beyond aesthetics to include wellness services such as peptide therapy, vitamin injections, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). These treatments enhance energy, metabolism, and overall well-being, bridging the gap between beauty and health. Unlike traditional, insurance-based clinics, medspas provide personalized care tailored to both aesthetic and wellness needs. Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You? Choosing between a medspa and a spa depends on your goals. Choose a MedSpa  if you want long-lasting, corrective treatments performed under medical supervision. Whether it’s body contouring, wrinkle reduction, or skin rejuvenation, medspas offer medically advanced solutions. Choose a Traditional Spa  if your priority is relaxation, stress relief, and maintaining healthy skin with non-invasive services. At Arawan MedSpa + Wellness , we specialize in full-body aesthetics while also offering advanced facial rejuvenation. Our clients understand that looking good enhances confidence and performance. We blend medical expertise with holistic wellness, delivering non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments tailored for natural, long-lasting results. Ready to experience medical-grade transformations? Visit us today!

Microneedling  is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure involving microscopic channels in the skin's surface using fine needles. This technique enhances the absorption of skincare products and stimulates collagen production, promoting skin rejuvenation, scar minimization, and texture improvement. Here's an overview of microneedling, its benefits, disadvantages, and the different serums used at Arawan MedSpa: Benefits of Microneedling Enhanced Product Absorption : Microchannels allow topical serums and active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin, maximizing their effectiveness. Stimulated Collagen Production : Induced micro-injuries triggered by microchanneling promote the skin's natural healing response, boosting collagen and elastin production. This microchanneling treatment helps improve skin texture, firmness, and elasticity lost through aging. Reduced Signs of Aging : Improved skin regeneration diminishes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Improved Skin Tone and Scar Minimization : Enhances overall skin radiance and clarity by promoting cell turnover and reducing hyperpigmentation. Microneedling helps minimize scars and stretch marks by stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture, and promoting healing of damaged tissue for smoother, more even skin. Minimal Downtime : Typically involves minimal discomfort and downtime compared to more aggressive treatments. Downsides of Microneedling Potential for Irritation : Some individuals may experience temporary redness, swelling, or mild irritation immediately after the procedure. Dryness: After microneedling, your skin may feel dry due to increased cell turnover, temporary moisture loss from micro-channels, and the natural healing process that causes mild inflammation and exfoliation. Tightness: After microneedling, your skin may feel tight due to temporary moisture loss, mild inflammation, and the skin’s natural healing response as it produces new collagen and regenerates. Itchiness: A histamine reaction may occur after microneedling because the skin perceives the micro-injuries as a mild trauma, triggering an immune response that releases histamine, leading to temporary redness, swelling, or itchiness. Multiple Sessions and Cost : Optimal results require multiple sessions spaced at least four to six weeks apart. A la carte (individual) sale, premium packages, and membership / subscription plan is available at Arawan MedSpa. Medical Grade Super Serums Used at Arawan MedSpa for Microneedling 1. Hydrating Serum Benefits : Epicutis serum hydrates, soothes, and protects the skin while improving its barrier function. It contains antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce inflammation, promoting overall skin health and resilience. Suitability : Ideal for adults with very dry or dehydrated skin. 2. Procell MD Serum Benefits : Procell MD serum contains growth factors and peptides that accelerate skin repair and rejuvenation. It enhances collagen production, reduces wrinkles, and improves skin firmness and elasticity, resulting in a youthful appearance and decreased wrinkles. Suitability : Arawan recommends ProCell MD for adults who want to target signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, or enhance skin renewal from acne scarring or surgical scars. Beneficial for adults concerned with environmental damage from harmful UV rays and looking to improve overall skin health and clarity. It is suitable for all skin types. 3. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Microneedling A PRP microneedling stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, and reduces fine lines, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation, making it ideal for individuals in their 30s to 60s looking to achieve a youthful, radiant glow, much like Kim Kardashian , who famously popularized the treatment. This natural, regenerative procedure enhances skin healing, tightens pores, and boosts overall skin health without the need for surgery or downtime. Benefits : PRP utilizes the patient's plasma, rich in growth factors, to stimulate collagen synthesis, improve skin texture, and promote healing. It effectively reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars, enhancing overall skin rejuvenation and radiance. Downsides : Potential for bruising at the injection site; requires blood draw and processing time. While PRP is considered safe for most people, it's not recommended for anyone  who has one of the following medical conditions: Hepatitis C., HIV, or AIDS. Suitable Age Group : Arawan recommends PRP for adults seeking more advanced anti-aging benefits or skin regeneration. PRP effectively treats acne scars, surgical scars, wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, large pores, and irregular skin texture. It also helps decrease the appearance of stretch marks. PRP is suitable for all skin types. While one microneedling session is a great way to experience the procedure and see how your skin responds, it’s important to remember that the concerns we’re treating, such as fine lines, acne scars, or skin texture, did not develop overnight. Similarly, one microneedling session will not reverse years of skin aging or damage in a single treatment. For noticeable, long-lasting results, multiple sessions (typically 3–4) are required to gradually improve skin tone, texture, and elasticity, with the full benefits becoming visible over time. Think of it as a commitment to long-term skin health and rejuvenation! When considering skin rejuvenation treatments like microneedling, Arawan MedSpa offers a superior option. By opting for microneedling, you ensure deeper penetration of nourishing serums tailored to your skin's specific needs. Don’t settle for just any over-the-counter serum—learn about the benefits of each serum used and choose the right one for optimal results in enhancing your skin's health and beauty. These serums are part of the comprehensive approach at Arawan MedSpa, where the microneedling treatment is complemented with tailored medical-grade super serums to address specific skin concerns and optimize results for each client. The effectiveness of these serums will leave you feeling confident in the results of your treatment. If someone decides not to continue with a full microneedling series, they may not achieve the optimal results that come from multiple treatments. Skin rejuvenation and improvements in texture, fine lines, and scarring require several sessions to build up collagen and improve elasticity. While one session can provide some immediate benefits, these changes are typically temporary and may not last long if the full series isn’t completed. Essentially, the skin may return to its pre-treatment state, or the results may be less noticeable than expected. By completing the full microneedling series (usually 3–4 sessions), clients can expect noticeable, long-lasting results, including smoother skin, reduced fine lines, and improved skin texture. These results are gradual, but the skin will continue to improve with each treatment. Collagen production is stimulated, which leads to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Post-treatment care also plays a significant role in maintaining these results. After completing the series, the benefits of microneedling are typically visible for 6–12 months. As the skin continues to age, natural collagen production decreases, and environmental factors (like sun exposure and lifestyle habits) can impact skin health. While microneedling doesn’t stop the aging process, it does provide a foundation for healthier, more resilient skin. To maintain or enhance results, clients may consider periodic touch-up treatments. These treatments will help keep the skin firm, smooth, and youthful, though additional sessions are recommended to keep up with the natural aging process. In short, microneedling is not a one-time fix—the skin will continue to age, but the treatment can help maintain a youthful glow and improve skin health if followed up with occasional maintenance sessions. Preparation for Microneedling: To ensure the best results from your microneedling treatment, follow these guidelines: Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight for at least 24–48 hours before your appointment to prevent irritation or sunburn. Discontinue Retinol/Exfoliants: Stop using retinol, Vitamin A products, and exfoliating treatments for seven (7) days prior to your session to avoid excessive skin irritation. No Waxing or Hair Removal: Avoid waxing, threading, or other hair removal methods in the treatment area for at least one (1) week before microneedling. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water leading up to the appointment to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid Blood Thinners: Refrain from taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood-thinning medications for at least eight (8) days before the procedure to minimize bruising. Cold Sores: Microneedling can trigger a cold sore outbreak in individuals with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), especially on areas like the lips. If you have a history of cold sores, inform your practitioner, as they may recommend antiviral medication to reduce the risk. Avoid microneedling during an active outbreak to prevent irritation or spreading the virus. Please let your provider know if you need a prescription for antiviral medication, and our physician can call your pharmacy to arrange it. Arrive with Clean Skin: Come to your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin to ensure optimal results and prevent any infections. Consultation: Let your provider know about any skin conditions or allergies, and disclose if you're on any medication or have recent facial treatments. By preparing properly, you'll help ensure a smoother procedure and more effective, visible results! Aftercare for Microneedling: To ensure optimal healing and results following your microneedling treatment, follow these aftercare tips: Avoid Sun Exposure: Sun exposure is a silent agent of rapid skin damage and aging. Stay out of the sun for 48 hours and apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 daily and reapply every two hours to protect your skin from UV damage. No Makeup for 24–48 Hours and Other Don'ts: Avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 hours to prevent irritation and allow your skin to heal. After microneedling, change your pillowcase to a clean one, avoid pets licking your face, and refrain from face kissing to prevent bacteria and germs from entering your sensitive skin. These steps help ensure proper healing and the best results. Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated by using medical grade heavy molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) serum and a gentle, nourishing moisturizer to help with dryness and support the healing process. For optimal post-treatment care, a combination of both heavy and light molecular weight HA may be used, but generally, the heavier HA such as the Epicutis Lipid Serum is more immediately soothing and protective after microneedling. Don’t Touch or Pick: Refrain from touching your face or picking at any areas of peeling to avoid introducing bacteria and causing potential scarring. Clean your eyeglasses before reapplying after the procedure. Avoid Heat: Stay away from hot showers, saunas, or intense exercise for 24–48 hours to prevent excessive sweating or irritation. Use Gentle Skincare: Stick to gentle, non-irritating skincare products (avoid exfoliants, retinol, or active ingredients) for about 7-10 days after treatment. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your skin recover and maintain hydration. Be Patient: Your skin may appear red or slightly swollen for 2-3 days following the treatment, which is completely normal. Peeling, dryness, or itchiness may occur after a few days but will subside quickly. Following these aftercare instructions helps your skin heal properly, maximizing the benefits of the microneedling treatment and ensuring smoother, more youthful skin! Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward smoother, more youthful skin! Contact Arawan MedSpa to discover the transformative benefits of microneedling for yourself. Your skin deserves the best! Book here | Give us a call at 847-383-6217 | Text only at 424-403-2758 | Stop in to reserve an appointment at 1431 McHenry Road, Suite 106, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089.

Written by: Sunshine de la Cruz RN Reviewed by: Eric de la Cruz MD FACS At Arawan MedSpa + Wellness, we are the leading experts in the northwest suburbs of Chicago for non-surgical and minimally invasive body sculpting, helping clients achieve beautifully contoured, natural-looking results—without the risks or downtime of traditional surgery. Whether you want to eliminate stubborn fat, enhance your curves, or define your physique, our advanced treatments are designed to give you the transformation you’ve been dreaming of. In the quest for the perfect body, traditional methods like diet and exercise are often insufficient to target stubborn fat deposits and achieve the desired sculpted appearance. However, advancements in non-invasive cosmetic treatments have brought about a revolution in body sculpting. This article explores the remarkable benefits of ultrasound cavitation, radio frequency, vacuum therapy, and vibration therapy – a comprehensive approach to achieving your dream physique. Unveiling the Science Behind Body Sculpting Technologies 1. Ultrasound Cavitation: Breaking Down Fat Cells Ultrasound cavitation is a cutting-edge treatment that uses low-frequency sound waves to target and break down fat cells beneath the skin's surface. The sound waves create pressure changes within the fat cells, causing them to rupture and release their contents. This liquefied fat is then naturally metabolized by the body and eliminated over time. Ultrasound cavitation is particularly effective for treating localized fat deposits in areas like the abdomen, back (bra area), thighs, and love handles. 2. Radio Frequency: Tightening and Smoothing the Skin Radiofrequency (RF) technology delivers controlled heat energy to the deeper layers of the skin, which stimulates collagen production, leading to skin tightening and improved elasticity. As the cavitation eliminates fat cells, RF can be used alongside ultrasound cavitation to enhance the overall results by ensuring the skin remains firm and smooth. 3. Vacuum Therapy: Enhancing Blood Circulation and Lymphatic Drainage Vacuum therapy employs suction to stimulate blood circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, which not only aids in flushing out toxins but also helps reduce cellulite's appearance and improve skin texture. By enhancing blood flow, vacuum therapy supports the body's natural healing processes, optimizing the outcome of other body sculpting treatments. 4. Vibration Therapy: Maximizing Muscle Engagement Vibration therapy involves using specialized platforms that emit controlled vibrations. These vibrations engage and contract muscles, increasing muscle tone and strength. Vacuum therapy can enhance the effects of other treatments as it targets muscle groups that are not effectively involved through traditional exercises alone. Additionally, improved muscle tone can contribute to a more sculpted and defined appearance. The Comprehensive Body Sculpting Experience The power of ultrasound cavitation, radio frequency, vacuum therapy, and vibration therapy lies in their combined approach with food and activity behavioral changes; these combined treatments will offer a comprehensive solution for achieving your desired physique without requiring invasive surgery. Consultation and Customization Before embarking on an entire body sculpting journey, we provide our consultation process through our introductory offer. We will assess your individual needs, recommend a customized treatment plan, and determine which combination therapy is best suited to help you achieve your goals. Minimal Downtime and Visible Results One of the significant advantages of these non-invasive treatments is the minimal downtime they entail. Most individuals can resume their daily activities shortly after a session. PRE-TREATMENT PREPARATIONS To ensure the best results from your ultrasound body sculpting session, follow these simple preparation steps: 1. Stay Hydrated - Drink plenty of water (at least 2 liters) in the 24–48 hours before your treatment to help your body flush out fat cells more effectively. 2. Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine - Reduce or avoid alcohol and caffeine at least 24 hours before your session, as they can dehydrate the body and affect lymphatic drainage. Alcohol is also the number reason the body's metabolism significantly slows down to almost level zero. 3. Eat a Healthy, Light Meal - Have a light, healthy meal before your appointment. Avoid heavy, fatty, or processed foods that may slow down your metabolism. 4. Stay Active - Exercising before and after your session can help enhance lymphatic circulation and optimize results. Ultrasound Body Sculpting Aftercare After your treatment, follow these aftercare guidelines to maximize your results and support your body’s natural detox process: 1. Continue Drinking Plenty of Water - Hydration is key! Drink at least 2 liters of water daily to help your body eliminate the fat cells naturally. 2. Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine for 24-48 Hours - These can slow down the lymphatic system, reducing the effectiveness of your treatment. Stick to water and non-caffeinated herbal teas instead. 3. Maintain an Active Lifestyle - Exercising, such as lifting weights, walking, yoga, or stretching, helps stimulate lymphatic drainage and enhance results. 4. Massage the Treated Area - Gently massage the treated area for 5–10 minutes daily to encourage the breakdown of fat cells and improve circulation. Ultrasound cavitation body sculpting is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure with literally zero downtime—meaning you can resume your normal activities immediately after treatment. Unlike surgical procedures, circumferential loss is gradual and varies between 0.25 to 2 inches per session, depending on individual factors. For best possible results, it’s essential to follow pre-treatment preparation guidelines and maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle after each session. Your body naturally eliminates fat cells over time, but new fat cells can form if proper nutrition and exercise aren’t maintained. Alcohol consumption, even once, significantly slows metabolism, resetting it to almost zero and making it take longer to return to peak fat-burning mode. A series of treatments is typically recommended for optimal sculpting and toning—so be patient, trust the process, and commit to your full treatment plan for the best outcome. Your results depend not just on the treatment itself, but on how well you care for your body before and after each session. Questions? We’re here to help!  Contact Arawan MedSpa + Wellness for more details or to schedule your next appointment. Embrace the journey of your transformation and schedule your introductory visit with us. Call our clinic at 847-383-6217 or text us directly at 424-403-2758. Book your next session  as advised by your provider to maintain and enhance your results! Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4174158/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7002044/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5404777/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5027633/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5236497/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9528696/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9925023/

Arawan Artistry Aesthetics (Arawan.co) is a unique boutique aesthetic and wellness space, working diligently to provide for our patients and serve our team by delivering exceptional service and results. We offer services ranging from BOTOX, InstaSculpting, PDO Threads, Hair rejuvenation, PMU etc: Why Arawan MedSpa + Wellness Arawan MedSpa + Wellness is the top physician-led aesthetic medicine clinic in Buffalo Grove, IL where we specialize in full-body aesthetics—from non-invasive body sculpting and weight management to advanced facial rejuvenation. With over 40 years of combined medical experience, we bring together surgical precision, critical care expertise, and an artistic eye to deliver results that are natural, safe, and confidence-boosting. But Arawan wasn’t just built on skill—it was built on something personal. As a husband-and-wife team—a board-certified surgeon and an experienced critical care nurse—we realized something important after turning 40: the energy and vitality we felt on the inside didn’t match what we saw in the mirror. And we weren’t alone. That gap between how we feel and how we look became our inspiration. We created Arawan MedSpa + Wellness to help others bridge that same gap—to restore not just appearance, but confidence. We believe self-care is powerful, aging doesn’t mean settling, and you deserve treatments that honor both your wellness and your beauty. This is more than just a medspa. It’s a place of transformation, built on heart, integrity, and the belief that when you feel good, you look good—and when you look good, you lead with confidence. Contact Us THE OWNERS CEO Sunshine de la Cruz RN Nurse Sunshine has been a registered nurse since 2001, working in critical care units such as the surgical ICU, medical ICU, and burn ICU. CMO Eric de la Cruz MD FACS Dr. Eric, prefers to be called, "Dr. DLC or Dr. Sunshine" graduated from medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago. He completed his surgical residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and his trauma fellowship at Shock Trauma in Baltimore, MD. Jason Nguyen Aesthetician Nitasha Bajwa Aesthetician Ellen Wu Aesthetician "I had never been to a medspa before, so I was definitely a little nervous about my first visit. However, from the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel completely at ease. They were so welcoming, patient, and informative, taking the time to explain everything and answer all my questions. They truly went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable and well taken care of. Not only was the experience relaxing, but they also helped me create a personalized health plan that fit my needs. Now, two years later, I’m still coming back because of the amazing care and results I’ve seen. If you’re new to medspas like I was, this is definitely the place to go!" READ MORE REVIEWS INSTAGRAM FEED

SKIN post treatment care 1. Preferably, no other products other than the products provided to you should be applied until the following day. 2. Avoid washing your face for the first 6 hours. Use tepid (lightly warm) water for the initial 24 hours to rinse the treated area. No cleanser required at this time. 3. Gently pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your aftercare products provided. The aftercare cream heals and also tightens your skin. Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture Tom trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). You may apply moisturizer like Cetaphil to reduce dryness when the aftercare cream feels dry to touch. 4. After 24 hours, you can use a gentle cleanser (example, Cetaphil or Cerave) to cleanse the face for the next 72 hours. 5. Always make sure that your hands are clean when touching the treated area. Have a hand sanitizer or anti-bacterial wipes on hand. 6. Avoid exposure to dust, pet dander and other irritants as best you can. You may experience a mild allergic reaction to pets and other things you typically do not react to within the first 24 hours. 7. Your skin may feel warm and tight, like a mild sunburn. This is an expected outcome during the first few days of this treatment. 8. Apply the aftercare products provided and moisturize with your favorite moisturizer or a product like Cetaphil or Cerave. 9. You may also apply a cool, damp washcloth as desired for comfort. 10. After the initial 24 hours, apply a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 for two weeks. A mineral-based, chemical-free sunscreen is highly recommended. 11. Do not apply any makeup with an old makeup brush, especially if it is not clean. New makeup brushes, or freshly cleansed brushes, are best. 12. After the therapy, nothing topical should be applied for at least 90 minutes. You may use a quality mineral makeup after 90 minutes of treatment. However, it is highly recommended that makeup and sunscreen not be applied for 24 hours after the procedure. 13. For your first treatment (and treatments at .25mm in general), you can expect mild redness and swelling and a tight, warm sensation between 4 to 24 hours. 14. Later treatments, or those with longer needling lengths may produce redness and swelling along with tiny flecks of redness for between 4 to 72 hours. These are easily covered with a quality mineral makeup. 15. Mild skin sloughing may occur for a few days after the treatment. 16. Mild acne and milia (tiny white bumps) can occur in rare cases. Don’t pick; they should go away in a few days. 17. Trans-Epidermal Water Loss is a common temporary side effect and can leave you feeling dry through the first week. Keep your recommended moisturizer with you during the day and apply as frequently as necessary to avoid a dry sensation. 18. The more you moisturize, the better your results will be. Do not exfoliate at least for 7 days. 19. For at least 3 days post-treatment, do NOT use any Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acids, Retin-A, Retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (in a low pH formula) or anything else perceived as “active” skincare. 20. Avoid intentional and direct sunlight for at least 48 hours. No tanning beds! Ensure you have proper sun protection whenever you are out in the sun. 21. Do not go swimming and avoid hot tubs, steam rooms and saunas for at least 24 hours post-treatment. 22. No exercising or strenuous activity for the first 24 hours post-treatment; sweating and gym environments must be avoided during the first 72 hours post-treatment. 23. If prolonged irritation occurs, please contact us or your practitioner, directly. 24. Return for your follow-up treatment in about a month or as recommended.

Join our Weight Loss Program at Arawan MedSpa + Wellness and experience personalized treatments, weekly support, and expert guidance to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Medical Weight Loss Service Care Management Program Terms & Conditions 1. Program Overview Purpose: This outlines the care management guidelines and patient responsibilities related to joining the weight management program at our practice, Arawan MedSpa + Wellness. It is designed to ensure transparency and consistency in the delivery of care, while also setting expectations for both patients and providers regarding treatment plans, costs, and scheduling. Provider Responsibilities: Our approach is built around care management to help you succeed. Our program fee is structured to manage your care while you're on weight loss medication. You’re not just paying for the medication itself; you’re investing in expert guidance, personalized support, and ongoing monitoring to ensure you achieve your health and weight loss goals. Consultation: Dr. de la Cruz will begin the treatment process with a thorough primary consultation to assess the patient's weight management goals, medical history, and overall health. This comprehensive consultation allows Dr. de la Cruz to establish a personalized treatment plan that aligns with the patient’s unique needs and concerns. Throughout the treatment, Dr. de la Cruz will follow-up weekly to monitor progress, discuss any challenges or successes, and make adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary. Once the patient reaches their weight loss goals, Dr. de la Cruz will work with them to transition off the weight loss medication, either through gradual dose reduction or by shifting to micro-dosing for long-term maintenance. Monitoring: Dr. de la Cruz will closely monitor the patient’s response throughout the treatment process. This includes ongoing assessments to track weight loss progress, identify any side effects, and evaluate the overall effectiveness of the medication. Adjustments to the dosage or treatment plan will be made based on these evaluations to ensure the best outcomes. The goal is to maintain the patient on the smallest effective dose, which facilitates an easier transition off the medication once the weight loss goals are met. It is more difficult to taper off medications at higher doses, so Dr. de la Cruz will prioritize starting with the lowest effective dose to set the patient up for long-term success. Education: Education is a key part of Dr. de la Cruz's treatment approach. Patients will receive detailed instructions on how to administer their injections at home (if chosen) and will be educated on potential side effects, how to manage them, and the importance of adhering to the prescribed weekly doses. Dr. de la Cruz will guide patients on how to incorporate diet, nutrition, exercise, and sleep into their routine for optimal effectiveness. The goal is to help patients not only achieve their weight loss objectives but also develop the tools and mindset necessary for long-term sustainability. Patients will be informed that transitioning off is easier when they are on a smaller dose, and that some may require ongoing microdosing even after adopting healthy lifestyle changes. Care Management Continuity During Tapering: When you begin tapering off the medication and skipping a dose is prescribed during this process, care management continues. You continue to pay for receiving care management services such as, but not limited to weekly check-in follow up services, support, guidance, and monitoring necessary for a successful transition. Patient Responsibilities With Behavior Modification For Sustainability: While prescribed medications serve as an effective tool in achieving weight management goals, sustainable results are contingent upon active participation in lifestyle and behavior modification efforts. Dr. de la Cruz emphasizes that the long-term maintenance of a healthy weight is achieved through continued adherence to healthy eating habits, regular exercise, proper recovery, and commitment to overall wellness. Patients are encouraged to understand that the outcomes of their weight management journey are directly influenced by their dedication and consistent effort. These lifestyle changes are essential, particularly when transitioning off weight loss medications. As the patient works toward tapering off the medication, maintaining these changes will support continued progress and prevent weight regain. However, some patients may need to remain on microdosing even with significant lifestyle modifications to maintain their results. Dr. de la Cruz will provide ongoing guidance on how to integrate these healthy behaviors into the patient’s daily routine, ensuring they have the tools to maintain weight loss in the long term, even if a low-dose maintenance approach is necessary. Consistency is essential for the success of lifestyle behavior modifications aimed at maintaining a healthy weight. A lack of adherence to these modifications may increase the risk of weight regain. In such cases, patients may require additional support, including a potential return to medication-based interventions, to achieve their weight management goals. Patients are encouraged to prioritize ongoing lifestyle adjustments to sustain long-term results and minimize the need for further medical treatment. Patients will receive one weekly prescribed dose of compounded weight loss medication (e.g., Semaglutide, Tirzepatide) based on the physician's instruction. Program Success and Commitment: The success of this program depends on the Patient’s consistency and active participation in following the prescribed treatment plan. Regular attendance on weekly check-in follow-ups, adherence to dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and honest communication with the medical team are essential for achieving the desired results. The Patient acknowledges that Arawan is committed to providing support throughout their treatment journey, but ultimate success depends on the Patient’s full commitment. Accountability and Program Adjustments: The Patient agrees to attend all scheduled appointments and follow the medical advice provided. If any difficulties arise in adhering to the program, the Patient is encouraged to communicate openly with the medical team. Adjustments may be made to the treatment plan as needed to fit the Patient’s specific needs. However, consistency is key to achieving long-term results. Consequences of Non-Compliance: If the Patient repeatedly misses appointments, fails to follow prescribed guidelines, or otherwise does not comply with the treatment plan, the patient will not have a successful outcome. Arawan reserves the right to review the patient compliance status. In some cases, the program may be suspended or terminated, and applicable fees or penalties may apply. Financial Obligation: Arawan MedSpa + Wellness does not accept any form of health insurance. Arawan provides cash-based treatments. Financing is available from Care Credit or Cherry Pay. The Patient understands that this Agreement is a binding contract, meaning the Patient is legally obligated to fulfill all terms, including remaining financially responsible for the full program term, regardless of compliance with the treatment plan. Program payments are non-refundable, and the Patient is required to fulfill their financial obligation, even if services are suspended or terminated due to non-compliance. Continued Payments: Continued payments are considered acceptance of any updated terms and conditions. Program payments will continue as scheduled, regardless of pauses, extensions, missed treatments, travel, illness, or any other reason, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing. The Patient agrees to maintain their financial commitment throughout the program term. No Extension of Program Term: Patients are responsible for managing their treatment schedule. Missed follow-ups that include missed doses may impact the effectiveness of the treatment and hinder progress toward weight management goals. The treatment term of the program remains fixed and will not be extended under any circumstances, even if a patient provides prior notice of absence or misses a scheduled weekly follow-up. While care management will continue, patients are strongly encouraged to adhere to weekly follow-up check-ins to achieve optimal results. Payment Issues, Late Fees, No-Shows or Late Cancellations: This fee helps cover the administrative costs and ensures that appointment times are available for other patients. Late cancellations and missed appointments can disrupt the scheduling and treatment continuity for both the patient and the clinic. Late Payment Fees: If the payment is missed or declined, a $50 late fee will apply each time a late payment occurs, medical services will be suspended until full payment is settled. Late Cancellation Fee and No Show Fee: Applies for missed appointments, cancelling, or rescheduling visits within 24 hours will incur a $100 late cancellation or no show fee. After 120 days of non-payment, our weight loss medical services will be terminated and the account may be sent to collections. Continued Payments: Program payments will continue as scheduled, regardless of missed doses, travel, illness, or any other reason, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing. The patient agrees to maintain financial commitment throughout the program term. Eligibility Criteria: Weight loss drugs are medications intended for patients with specific health goals and needs, including weight management. To qualify for treatment, patients must meet the following criteria: Age Requirement: Patients must be 18 years or older. No pediatric weight management patients are accepted. Health Status: Weight loss medications are primarily prescribed for patients with: Overweight or obesity, as determined by BMI. Patients with a waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) of greater than 0.90 for males and greater than 0.85 for females indicate that there is more fat around the waist compared to their hips. This ratio is often used as a measure of fat distribution in the body and is associated with health risks. Someone who is already on an exercise regimen, behavior modification therapy, or on a nutritional coaching plan who needs medical weight management support. No contraindications for the medication, such as history of certain medical conditions (e.g., thyroid cancer, pancreatitis). Conditions where patients may benefit from weight loss medications include: type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, polycystic ovarian syndrome, joint and muscular disorders, cardiovascular disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and some psychological or mental health issues that impact self-esteem, body image, depression and anxiety related to being overweight or obesity. Assessment: Patients must undergo a thorough health assessment to confirm that they are suitable candidates for care management. This includes an evaluation of current health conditions, weight loss history, and lifestyle factors. Medical History Review: Prior to prescribing weight loss medications, we will review the patient’s medical history to ensure they meet appropriate clinical guidelines for the medication. Patients who do not meet eligibility criteria may not be prescribed weight loss medications. Alternative weight management strategies will be discussed. This Weight Loss Program Agreement ("Agreement") is made between the patient ("member" or “patient”) and Arawan MedSpa + Wellness, hereinafter referred to as "Arawan," for participation in the Medical Weight Loss Management Program ("Program"). By joining this program and reviewing the Weight Loss Program terms and conditions, the Patient acknowledges and agrees to the terms, guidelines, and requirements set forth in this Program Agreement. PROGRAM TYPES Basic Care Plan: 24-week commitment with in-clinic visits. Enhanced Care Plan: Short Term In-Clinic Management. Convenience Care Plan: At-home care with weekly telehealth support. Convenience Care Plan: For at-home telehealth care management, members pay a one-time fee for the duration of a medication volume amount or by medication expiration date. 2. Care Plan Structure and Terms: Basic Care Plan: 24-week commitment with in-clinic visits. Basic Care Plan requires a 24-week commitment of in-clinic visits with ongoing care management provided for the full duration. Payment Requirement: Payment is expected at the end of each 4th week cycle. This ensures continuity of treatment and access to services for the next upcoming 4-week cycle. Payment Options: Automatic Payments: Patients may set up automatic recurring payments, which will be debited from the credit card on file at the end of each 4th week cycle. Payment is expected every 4 weeks. Manual Payments: Patients may choose to make manual payments, but these must be completed by the end of each 4th week cycle to avoid late fees. The weekly cycle begins on Sunday and ends on Saturday. Payment is expected every 4 weeks. Late Payment Fee: Payments not received before the start of the next 4-week cycle will incur a $50 late fee for each late payment occurrence. No Shows or Late Cancellations will be a $100 fee. *By agreeing to these terms, the patient acknowledges their responsibility to make timely payments to avoid service interruptions and late fees. Enhanced Care Plan: Minimum four-week commitment with in-clinic management. Minimum Commitment: Short-term in-clinic management is best managed with a minimum commitment of four weeks to ensure effective treatment and care. Optional plans are: week-to-week, 6-week, or 12-week plans. Complexity of Short-Term Management: Shortened commitments inherently involve greater complexity due to the unpredictability of treatment cycles. These factors are reflected in the structure of the care plan and associated fees. Fee Structure: Fees for enhanced care management are calculated based on the complexity of treatment management. Shorter service durations may incur higher fees due to the increased complexity and intensity of care coordination required. Payment Options: Automatic Payments: Patients may set up automatic recurring payments, which will be debited from the credit card on file before each treatment cycle. Payment is expected every 4 weeks. Manual Payments: Patients may choose to make manual payments, but these must be completed at the beginning of each treatment cycle to avoid late fees.The weekly cycle begins on Sunday and ends on Saturday. Payment is expected every 4 weeks. Late Payment Fee: Payments not received at the beginning of the week of the next treatment cycle will incur a $50 late fee for each late payment occurrence. No Shows or Late Cancellations will be a $100 fee. *By agreeing to these terms, patients acknowledge that service fees are determined by the level of care provided and the duration of the chosen plan. Convenience Care Plan: At-home care with weekly telehealth support. Convenience Care Plan: For at-home care management, members pay a one-time fee for the duration of a medication volume amount or by the medication expiration date. Weekly follow up check-ins will be done as a recurring visit. Weekly check-in forms must be completed on Wednesdays between 7am CST and before 5pm CST to be considered on time. To ensure timely processing, check-in forms must be completed on Wednesdays between 7:00 AM CST and 5:00 PM CST. Any forms submitted after 5:00 PM CST will be considered late and will incur a $100 administrative fee. Medication Storage Responsibility: Patients are responsible for properly storing their medications both at home and during travel to ensure they remain effective. Improper storage may lead to the medication being denatured, and it is the patient’s responsibility to prevent this. No Medication Replacements: Arawan and the care team, including Dr. de la Cruz, are not responsible for replacing any medications that are lost, damaged, or compromised due to improper storage or handling by the patient. Non-Refundable Program Fees: Payment made covers the cost of the medication while supplies last, as well as expert care management provided by Dr. de la Cruz and his care team. Fees are non-refundable, regardless of the remaining supply of medication. The fees are non-refundable because they cover both the medication (while supplies last) and the expert care provided by Dr. de la Cruz and the care team. The fee reflects the comprehensive management of your treatment, including time, resources, and administrative costs, which are not refundable regardless of the remaining medication. Why Can’t We Send Syringes To Patients for Injections at Home?: We are not a licensed pharmacy and, therefore, cannot dispense medications directly to patients for home use. All medications must be labeled, have instructions from the pharmacy, and delivered directly from the pharmacy to the patient. 3. Termination and Cancellation Patient Cancellation: The Patient may cancel their program by providing written notice before the next billing date. If canceled before the end of the program term, an early termination fee equal to the remaining balance of the program term will apply. All fees paid are non-refundable, including payments for the agreed services for the full term and unused medication administration. Termination by Arawan: Arawan reserves the right to terminate the program for non-payment of managed care and services, or non-compliance with treatment protocols, including failure to follow medical advice or attend required weekly check-in follow-ups. 4. Program Conditions Non-Transferability: The program is non-transferable to another person. Travel Considerations: If a patient plans to travel and will miss a dose, they should inform the clinic in advance to discuss potential options, but the standard policy will apply. The program will continue without pause, and missed doses will not be rescheduled. Missed Doses in Clinic: If a patient misses a scheduled dose at our clinic, the dose will be considered "used," and the patient will be charged for that visit. Missed Doses Due to Personal Events or Personal Reasons: It is the patient’s responsibility to plan their personal events around their dosing schedule. Missed doses will not be refunded or rescheduled, as it may affect the treatment plan. Missed Telehealth Visit: At-home participants are required to complete their weekly check-in forms on Wednesdays between 7:00 AM CST and 5:00 PM CST. Forms submitted after 5:00 PM CST will be considered late and subject to a $100 administrative fee. If an at-home participant does not respond or submit their form by 5:00 PM CST, it will be considered a missed telehealth visit, a $100 administrative fee is expected. Medical Reasons: Patients who need to hold medication for medical reasons will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Service management fees, cost, or price are subject to change without notice. Treatment Options for Short-Term Patients: Basic Plan: The 24-week program will continue as scheduled, and it is the patient’s responsibility to adhere to the treatment plan. The program cannot be paused for any reason, including travel, illness, or personal circumstances. Enhanced Plan: Patients who do not wish to commit to the full 24-week program may opt for a short-term management plan. Short-term patients will incur higher charges due to the complex management of a shorter duration. Management Continuity: The patient will be closely monitored, and if they wish to continue after 8 weeks, they must transition to the 24-week commitment plan. Continued Payments: Program payments will continue as scheduled, regardless of pauses, extensions, missed treatments, travel, illness, or any other reason, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing. The Patient agrees to maintain their financial commitment throughout the program term. No Extension of Program Term: The program term will not be extended under any circumstances, even if a patient provides prior notice of absence or misses a scheduled treatment dose. While patients are responsible for managing their treatment schedule, missed doses will not result in an extension of the program. If a dose is skipped due to travel, illness, or any other reason, the patient will not be able to make up for missed doses at a later time. The total number of treatment doses in the program remains fixed, and the patient will continue to receive their doses according to the original schedule, regardless of missed appointments. 5. Suspension of Medical Treatment Services Medical services may be suspended if the Patient’s account has outstanding balances due to declined payments, non-compliance with the program, or other issues. Services will remain suspended until the balance and any associated penalties are paid in full. Please note that any suspension of services due to payment issues or non-compliance will not extend the treatment plan or the program's duration. After 120 days of non-payment, our weight loss medical services will be terminated and the patient account may be sent to collections. Notification and Resolution Notification of Payment Issue: The Patient will be notified of any payment issues and the suspension of services as soon as the issue is identified. Notification may be made in writing (via text, email, or mail) or by phone call, as appropriate. Late Fee: A $50 late fee will be applied if a payment is not received by the due date. The balance will continue to be invoiced and reattempted for payment daily. Suspension of Services: If the payment issue is not resolved, medical treatment services will be suspended. Services will remain suspended until the balance is paid in full, and the late fee is processed. The Patient will be notified when the suspension is lifted, and services will resume, subject to availability and clinic policies. Reinstatement: Once the payment issue is resolved, services will be reinstated based on availability and clinic policies. Any missed treatments due to suspension may not be backtracked for treatment, rescheduled, or refunded. If services remain suspended for more than 30 days, Arawan reserves the right to terminate the program entirely. 6. Pregnancy: If the Patient becomes pregnant, weight loss medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists may not be recommended due to potential risks. 7. Discontinuation of Compounded Medication In the event that the prescribed medication (Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, or any other prescribed treatment) is discontinued or becomes unavailable for any reason (e.g., supply issues, regulatory changes, or medical reasons), the Patient will be eligible for a prorated refund. 8. Weekly Check-Ins and No-Show Policy: As part of the Medical Weight Loss Management program, weekly check-ins are required to monitor progress, assess treatment effectiveness, and provide ongoing support. These check-ins are essential to the Patient’s success in the program and to ensure that the treatment plan remains aligned with their health goals. Forms and Scheduling: The Patient is required to complete a weekly check-in form, which is available on Arawan’s website. The link to the form can be found under the Weight Loss Management tab. These forms should be submitted prior to or at the time of the weekly check-in appointment. Scheduling Weekly Check-Ins: To schedule a check-in, the Patient must use the scheduling link available on the Weight Loss Management tab of our website. Appointments should be scheduled on a weekly basis to ensure the Patient receives continuous support and monitoring throughout the treatment. Scheduling: Patients are encouraged to schedule treatments in advance to ensure availability. No-Show and Late Policy: Failure to attend an appointment or arriving more than 15 minutes late will result in a $100 no-show fee. The scheduled dose will be considered used. Rescheduling: Appointments may be rescheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability. 9. Credit Card on File Policy A valid credit card must be kept on file for billing purposes. By providing credit card information, the Patient authorizes Arawan to charge for program dues, service fees, missed appointment fees, and any outstanding balances. Patients who choose not to keep a credit card on file and prefer to make manual payments are welcome to do so. However, any payments not received by the due date will incur a $50 late fee, which will be applied to the overdue balance. Timely payment is required to ensure uninterrupted participation in the program. Patients are also responsible for paying for any missed appointments ("no-shows") or late cancellations, regardless of the payment method chosen. 10. Privacy and Security Data Protection: All personal and payment information is securely stored and encrypted in compliance with industry standards. However, Arawan cannot guarantee against potential security breaches. Data Retention: Arawan will retain personal data, including payment information, for the duration of the program and for a reasonable period thereafter, in compliance with applicable data protection laws. 11. Dispute Resolution Mediation and Arbitration: Disputes arising under this Agreement will be resolved through mediation or arbitration. All disputes will be governed by the laws of the State of Illinois. 12. Policy Updates Arawan reserves the right to modify these terms and policies at any time. Updated terms will be posted on Arawan’s website. It is the Patient’s responsibility to review these updates periodically. Patients will be notified of material changes. 13. Acknowledgment By reviewing and acknowledging this Program Agreement, the Patient confirms that they have read, understood, and agreed to all terms and conditions, including the full privacy policy, which is available on Arawan’s website at www.arawan.co .