Med Spa FAQ | Your Questions Answered by Scranton's Experts

• Botox: 3-7 days for initial results, 10-14 days for full effect
• Fillers: Immediate volume (final results after swelling resolves in 7-14 days)

• Botox: 3-4 months
• Lip Fillers: 6-12 months
• Dermal Fillers: 12-24 months (depends on area and product)

Minimal to none! Botox has zero downtime. Fillers may cause 1-2 days of swelling/bruising but you can return to work immediately with makeup if desired.

Not when done correctly! Our conservative, artistic approach ensures you look like yourself—just refreshed and rested. We preserve natural facial expressions and never overdo it.

Absolutely! Many clients combine Botox with fillers in the same appointment for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. We can also combine injectables with laser treatments like CoolPeel or Photo Facial.

• Botox: $13 per unit (typical treatment $260-$780)
• Lip Fillers: $750-$825 per syringe
• Dermal Fillers: $750-$825 per syringe Exact pricing provided at your consultation based on your customized treatment plan.

Your satisfaction is our priority. Botox results fade naturally over 3-4 months. Fillers are adjustable at follow-up appointments and can be dissolved completely if needed. We'll work with you until you're thrilled with your results.

Yes! Starting Botox treatments earlier (late 20s-early 30s) can prevent dynamic wrinkles from becoming permanent static wrinkles. It's called "preventative Botox" or "Baby Botox."

Most patients describe Botox injections as a quick pinch or mild pressure. Treatments are fast, and discomfort is minimal. Any tenderness typically resolves within minutes.

Most clients schedule Botox treatments every 3–4 months to maintain consistent results.

Most patients describe Lip Filler injections as a quick pinch or mild pressure. Treatments are fast, and discomfort is minimal. Any tenderness typically resolves within minutes.

Most patients describe Dermal Filler injections as a quick pinch or mild pressure. Treatments are fast, and discomfort is minimal. Any tenderness typically resolves within minutes.

Our Motus AZ+ and Photo Facial lasers are specifically safe for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-VI). CoolPeel requires careful assessment and may require modified settings for darker skin.

Pricing varies by treatment and area:

• Laser Hair Removal: Starting at $81/area, packages from $486-$2,430
• CoolPeel: $700/treatment, packages available
• Photo Facial: Package of 3 for $1,000

We accept all major credit cards and offer payment plans through Cherry financing for larger treatment series. Apply in minutes, approvals up to $25,000.

• Laser Hair Removal: Permanent (90-95% reduction lasts indefinitely)
• CoolPeel: 2-5 years with proper skincare and sun protection
• Photo Facial: 1-2 years, maintenance treatments preserve results

• Laser Hair Removal: None
• CoolPeel: 3-5 days redness/peeling
• Photo Facial: Minimal (1-3 hours mild redness)

Pain varies by treatment:

• Motus AZ+: Painless (0-1/10)
• CoolPeel: Moderate (numbing cream provided)
• Photo Facial: Minimal (2-3/10, no numbing needed)

• Laser Hair Removal: 6-8 sessions
• CoolPeel: 3-5 sessions for dramatic transformation
• Photo Facial: 3-6 sessions depending on concerns

Yes, but sun avoidance is critical. We prefer fall/winter/spring when sun exposure is naturally limited. Summer treatments require strict sun protection (SPF 50+, hats, shade).

Minimal to none! You may have mild redness for 1-3 hours and slight warmth, but you can return to normal activities immediately. Makeup can typically be applied the next day.

You'll notice an immediate glow and brightness. Visible improvement in pigmentation appears within 1-2 weeks as darkened spots flake off. Full results develop over 2-4 weeks as collagen production increases. Optimal results appear after completing your full treatment series.

Most clients need 3-6 treatments for optimal results. Maintenance concerns may only need 3 sessions, while more significant issues like deep pigmentation or extensive scarring benefit from 5-6 treatments. Maintenance treatments 1-2 times per year preserve results.

Treatments are spaced 2-4 weeks apart to allow your skin to heal and respond. This timing maximizes collagen production and allows pigment to be eliminated between sessions.

Yes! The 1064nm wavelength is specifically safe for all skin types, including darker skin (Fitzpatrick types IV-VI). Unlike shorter wavelengths that can cause hyperpigmentation in dark skin, the 1064nm wavelength safely bypasses melanin while treating underlying concerns.

Photo Facial can actually help treat active acne! The laser reduces inflammation, kills acne bacteria, and decreases oil production. However, if you have severe cystic acne, we may recommend treating the active breakouts first before focusing on scarring and pigmentation.

Absolutely! Photo Facial combines beautifully with:

• Chemical peels (alternate monthly)
• Microneedling (space 4+ weeks apart)
• Botox and fillers (can do same day)
• Facials (maintenance between laser sessions)

Results are long-lasting, especially with proper sun protection. Pigmentation and redness improvements can last 1-2 years. Anti-aging benefits continue developing for 6 months as collagen remodels. Maintenance treatments 1-2 times yearly preserve results indefinitely.

Other lasers for permanent laser hair reduction or hair removal often market themselves as “painless.” However, these lasers are not as well-tolerated as their claims suggest. They are usually associated with intense heating and a very uncomfortable sensation of a rubber band snapping against the skin.

Laser hair removal with the Motus AZ+ is different; it has many built-in features to support a truly gentle process. These features include using a special handpiece that applies low-energy pulses slowly and repetitively – rather than in an intense burst. Plus, the tip of this handpiece is designed to cool once it makes contact with the skin.

Altogether, these characteristics minimize the risk of damage to the skin around the targeted hair follicles and present a much more comfortable process than other lasers and techniques for permanent hair removal/reduction.

It depends on your goals. Monthly maintenance (facials) runs ~$90-130/month. Transformation treatments (microneedling, peels) typically require 3-6 sessions at $175-350 each. We’ll provide exact pricing during consultation.

Yes! We offer package pricing on microneedling (3 for $960) and chemical peels (series discounts available). Ask during consultation.

We accept all major credit cards and offer payment plans through Cherry financing for larger treatment series. Apply in minutes, approvals up to $25,000.

Depends on treatment:

• Dermaplaning/CO2 Lift: Immediate
• Facials: Immediate, with cumulative improvement
• Chemical Peels: 7-14 days
• Microneedling: 4-6 weeks, continues improving for months

Most treatments are comfortable:

• Facials, Dermaplaning, CO2 Lift: No pain
• Chemical Peels: Mild tingling
• Microneedling: Tolerable with numbing cream

• Facials, Dermaplaning, CO2 Lift: Zero downtime
• Chemical Peels: 3-7 days visible peeling
• Microneedling: 1-2 days redness

• Yes! We customize treatments for all skin types and tones. Microneedling and facials are especially safe for darker skin that can’t tolerate certain lasers.

• Depends on treatment:

  • Facials: Every 4-6 weeks
  • Dermaplaning: Every 3-4 weeks
  • Chemical Peels: Every 4-12 weeks
  • Microneedling: Every 4-6 weeks during series, then 1-2x per year maintenance

Absolutely! Many of our male clients love the results from facials, chemical peels, and microneedling.

We have options for sensitive skin including gentle enzyme peels, customized facials, and can adjust microneedling depth. We’ll find treatments that work for you.

VI Peels begin peeling on day 3 and complete by day 7. Face Reality peels have minimal to no visible peeling—mainly light flaking for 2-3 days. Plan for one week of visible peeling with VI Peel.

Avoid makeup until peeling is complete (day 7 for VI Peel). For Face Reality peels, wait 24 hours. When you resume, mineral makeup is best as it won't clog healing pores.

VI Peel Original treats general aging and sun damage. VI Peel Purify targets active acne. VI Peel Advanced treats deeper wrinkles and stubborn pigmentation. VI Peel Precision Plus is for severe hyperpigmentation and melasma. We'll recommend the best option during your consultation.

Initial treatment series: Every 4-6 weeks for 3-4 treatments. Maintenance: Every 8-12 weeks to maintain results. Frequency depends on your peel type and skin goals. We'll create a customized plan during consultation.

Yes! Chemical peels, especially VI Peel Advanced and Precision Plus, are highly effective for fading age spots, sun damage, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Patients typically see 60-80% improvement after a series of treatments.

Absolutely. VI Peel Purify and Face Reality Acne Bootcamp Peel are specifically formulated for acne. They clear current breakouts and prevent future acne by working deep within pores. Many patients see 50-70% reduction in breakouts.

VI Peel: Days 4-6 have the most visible peeling—plan to avoid important events during this time if you're self-conscious. However, most patients maintain work and normal activities. Face Reality: Minimal visible peeling—you can maintain completely normal activities.

Yes. VI Peels are safe for all skin tones including very dark skin (Fitzpatrick V-VI). We customize the formulation and strength based on your skin tone to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is one reason we love VI Peel—it's safe for everyone.

Avoid sun exposure without SPF 50+, picking peeling skin, harsh products, exfoliants, retinoids, waxing, and strenuous exercise for 7-10 days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and products.

Yes. Chemical peels improve surface-level acne scars and texture with each treatment. For deeper, pitted scars, microneedling may be more effective. Many patients combine both treatments for maximum improvement.

New skin is revealed on day 7 (VI Peel) or day 3-4 (Face Reality). However, full results develop over 2-4 weeks as skin continues to improve, collagen production increases, and pigmentation fades further.

While fall and winter are ideal (less sun exposure), you can get peels year-round if you're diligent about sun protection—SPF 50+ reapplied every 2 hours outdoors. We'll discuss timing based on your lifestyle during consultation.

Facials gently exfoliate the surface and focus on relaxation, cleansing, and maintenance. Chemical peels use acids to penetrate deeper layers, causing controlled exfoliation for dramatic improvement of specific concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne, or wrinkles.

Yes. Add dermaplaning before your peel for better penetration. You can get Botox 2+ weeks before or after your peel. Alternate chemical peels with microneedling treatments for comprehensive results. We'll create a customized combination plan.

VI Peel: Minimal redness. Your skin may look tan or darkened for the first 2 days, then peel. Not the dramatic redness of older peels.

Face Reality: Mild redness for 1-2 days, similar to mild sunburn.

You must stop using retinol and retinoids 2 weeks before your peel to avoid excessive irritation and complications. You can resume 1-2 weeks after peeling is complete. We'll provide a timeline.

Most chemical peels are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to ingredient concerns and lack of safety studies. Consider gentle facials or enzyme treatments instead. Always consult your OB-GYN.

They work differently and complement each other beautifully. Botox relaxes muscles that cause expression lines (forehead, crow's feet, frown lines). Chemical peels improve skin texture, tone, and surface wrinkles. Many patients do both for complete anti-aging results.

Learn more about Botox →

Microneedling at Turcatti’s costs $350 per treatment or $960 for a package of 3 sessions. Add-ons like PRP ($200), Exosomes ($180), or Dermaplaning ($40) can enhance results.

Most patients need 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. The exact number depends on your skin concerns and goals, which we’ll discuss during your consultation.

Expect mild redness for 24-48 hours, similar to a mild sunburn. Most patients return to work the next day. Avoid makeup for 24 hours and sun exposure for a few days.

You’ll notice smoother, more radiant skin within a few days. Full results develop over 4-6 weeks as collagen production increases. Results continue to improve with each treatment.

Yes. Microneedling is safe for all skin types and tones, including darker skin that may not be suitable for certain laser treatments.

Microneedling effectively treats acne scars, surgical scars, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven texture, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks.

Microneedling is one of the most effective treatments for acne scars. Patients typically see 50-80% improvement in scar visibility after 4-6 treatments. Works for all scar types.

They target different concerns. Microneedling is superior for acne scars, deep wrinkles, and texture. Chemical peels are better for hyperpigmentation and active acne. Many patients do both.

Professional microneedling uses sterile, medical-grade devices like SkinPen with precise needle depth control. At-home dermarollers have shorter needles, less precision, and cannot achieve the same results as professional treatments.

Wait 12-24 hours before applying makeup. When you resume, use only mineral makeup for the first few days to avoid clogging healing pores.

Results can last 1-2 years because you’re building new collagen. Maintenance treatments every 6-12 months help preserve and enhance results.

Yes, but you must be extremely diligent about sun protection (SPF 50+ reapplied every 2 hours). Fall and winter are ideal due to less sun exposure.

Avoid sun exposure, harsh products, retinol, acids, exercise, swimming, makeup (24 hours), and touching your face for 5-7 days.

Yes. Microneedling tightens skin and improves texture, making pores appear 30-50% smaller. Results improve with each treatment.

Yes, especially newer red/purple stretch marks. Microneedling stimulates collagen production to improve color and texture. Older marks also improve but require more treatments (6-10).

When performed by trained professionals using FDA-cleared devices like SkinPen, microneedling is very safe. Risks are minimal when proper sterile technique and aftercare are followed.

Yes! Microneedling pairs beautifully with PRP, exosomes, dermaplaning, and chemical peels. We’ll create a customized treatment plan during your consultation.

Some patients experience minor “purging” as skin detoxifies, but this is temporary (3-5 days). Proper aftercare minimizes this risk.

Absolutely! Men’s skin responds excellently to microneedling. Many male clients treat acne scars, large pores, and signs of aging.

Standard microneedling uses needles alone. RF (radiofrequency) microneedling adds heat energy for enhanced collagen stimulation. RF is more expensive and has longer downtime. Standard microneedling is highly effective for most concerns.

We recommend professional facials every 4-6 weeks to maintain healthy, glowing skin. This frequency aligns with your skin’s natural 28-day cell turnover cycle and allows us to address concerns before they worsen.

Facials should not be painful. Extractions may cause brief discomfort, but our expert technique minimizes this. Most clients find facials deeply relaxing—many even fall asleep during treatment!

Some clients experience minor “purging” after their first facial as congestion is brought to the surface. This is temporary and usually resolves within 3-5 days. Subsequent facials typically don’t cause purging.

Schedule your facial 3-5 days before a special event for optimal glow without any potential post-facial redness. If extractions are needed, allow 5-7 days. For immediate events, consider our CO2 Lift treatment instead.

We recommend avoiding makeup for at least 12-24 hours after your facial to let your skin breathe and fully absorb the beneficial products. Your skin will look so good, you won’t need makeup!

Yes! Regular professional facials are highly effective for managing acne. Deep cleansing, proper extractions, and antibacterial treatments can significantly improve breakouts and prevent future acne. For severe or cystic acne, we recommend combining facials with our Face Reality acne peel program.

Absolutely. Regular facials improve circulation, boost collagen production through massage, provide antioxidant protection, and keep skin hydrated—all essential for healthy aging. For more dramatic anti-aging results, consider combining facials with microneedling, chemical peels, or Botox treatments.

Yes, but we customize your facial for your sensitive skin. We use gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid harsh exfoliation or hot steam. Always inform your aesthetician about skin sensitivities during your consultation.

Spa facials focus on cleansing, hydration, and relaxation using professional-grade products and techniques. Medical-grade treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser treatments use advanced technology for more dramatic, lasting results. Many clients use facials for maintenance between more aggressive treatments.

Absolutely! Men’s skin faces unique challenges—larger pores, thicker skin, shaving irritation, and often more oil production. Many of our male clients from Scranton and NEPA love the deep cleansing and relaxation benefits of regular facials.

Yes. Professional extraction is one of the most effective ways to clear blackheads. Trying to remove them at home often pushes bacteria deeper into pores or causes scarring. Our aestheticians are trained in proper extraction techniques that clear blackheads safely.

Yes, with modifications. We avoid certain ingredients like salicylic acid and retinoids during pregnancy. Pregnancy facials focus on calming inflammation, managing hormonal breakouts, and providing relaxation—all safe for mom and baby.

No special prep is required. Arrive with or without makeup—we’ll thoroughly cleanse either way. However, avoid harsh exfoliants and retinoids for 2-3 days before your appointment for best results.

You’ll see immediate results—brighter, smoother, more hydrated skin right after your treatment. Results typically last 2-4 weeks, with cumulative improvements from regular facials.

Facials can’t permanently shrink pores, but regular deep cleansing keeps them clear and makes them appear smaller. Clean pores look less noticeable than clogged, stretched pores.

For 24-48 hours after your facial, avoid:

• Heavy makeup
• Harsh exfoliants or active ingredients (retinol, acids)
• Intense workouts that cause excessive sweating
• Sun exposure without SPF protection
• Touching your face excessively

Yes! Facials can actually help clear active breakouts through deep cleansing, extractions, and antibacterial treatments. Let your aesthetician know about any painful or cystic acne so they can adjust treatment accordingly.

Yes, when done regularly. While one facial provides immediate glow, consistent treatments (every 4-6 weeks) deliver cumulative benefits: clearer pores, improved texture, more even tone, better product absorption, and healthier skin overall.

Absolutely not. This is a myth. Vellus hair (peach fuzz) grows back at exactly the same rate, color, and texture as before. The hair structure cannot change from dermaplaning.

Standalone treatment: 45-60 minutes. As an add-on to another treatment: 15-20 minutes.

Zero downtime. You can return to all normal activities immediately, including wearing makeup. Your skin will look perfect right away.

Yes, immediately! In fact, your makeup will apply more flawlessly than ever. However, your skin will look so good you may not want to cover it.

Every 3-4 weeks for optimal results. This aligns with your skin's natural cell turnover and hair regrowth cycles.

Dermaplaning typically doesn't cause breakouts. Some people experience minor purging as impurities surface, but this clears within a few days. Proper aftercare minimizes this risk.

No. We carefully avoid eyebrows and any other areas where you want to keep hair. The treatment targets only vellus hair (peach fuzz) on your cheeks, forehead, chin, and upper lip.

Avoid sun exposure without SPF 30+, harsh products, retinoids and acids (24 hours), touching your face excessively, and intense workouts (24 hours).

Yes, but we avoid areas with terminal beard hair (coarse facial hair). We can dermaplane the forehead, sides of face, and other areas without terminal hair growth.

Single treatment results last 3-5 days. After a series of 3 weekly treatments, results last 2-3 weeks. Monthly maintenance extends benefits long-term.

Zero downtime. You can return to all activities immediately with visibly better skin. Perfect for same-day events.

Schedule 1-2 days before your event for peak results during your occasion. Many brides get CO2 Lift the day before their wedding.

Fine lines, loss of firmness, dull skin, uneven tone, under-eye concerns, and early signs of aging. Provides instant lifting, brightening, and smoothing.

Very safe. No heat, no laser, no invasive procedures. Just a topical gel that triggers your body's natural processes. Safe for all skin types.

Yes, immediately! Though your skin will look so good you may not want to.

The gel releases carbon dioxide into your skin. Your body responds by flooding the area with oxygen-rich blood, creating immediate lifting, firming, and brightening.

Anyone needing immediate results without downtime. Perfect for brides, special events, photo shoots, or anytime you want to look your absolute best.

Absolutely! CO2 Lift pairs beautifully with facials, dermaplaning, and microneedling for enhanced results.

Yes! The moment the gel is removed, you'll see dramatically lifted, brighter, more youthful-looking skin.

With proper at-home care and regular professional maintenance, extension hair can last 9-12 months. Longevity depends on lifestyle, heat usage, product choices, and adherence to recommended salon maintenance. Tape-Ins require repositioning every 6-8 weeks. Wefts and I-Tips need resets every 6-8 weeks, with the 3rd reset requiring removal and reinstall. Bonded extensions (K-Tips) don't require move-ups as they last 4-6 months before being professionally removed and reinstalled with fresh bonds.

You can truly see the difference. With our expertise and use of the highest quality products and materials, your longer hair will blend in seamlessly and look completely natural. Professional extensions also support lasting results—you can enjoy your beautiful look for six to eight weeks before maintenance is required. Our stylists take an exacting approach, removing build-up, trimming loose ends, and re-adhering bonds as needed. This prevents tangles, damage, and an overall unkempt appearance that's common with DIY extensions.

A Brazilian Blowout is perfect if you love your natural hair but want it smoother, shinier, and easier to manage. It dramatically reduces frizz, adds intense shine, and cuts down your styling time without flattening your volume or completely eliminating your curl. Your hair stays flexible and soft—just more polished and effortless. It gradually fades out of the hair (no harsh grow-out line) and is perfect for warm and humid months, though it can be beneficial all year round. Results last up to 12 weeks with proper at-home care.

At Turcatti's, balayage services start at $95 for Face Frame Balayage, $175 for Partial Balayage, and $225 for Full Balayage. Final pricing depends on hair length, density, current color, and desired result. Many clients also add a gloss or toner ($45 when combined with color) for enhanced dimension and shine. We recommend scheduling a complimentary consultation so we can assess your hair and provide an accurate quote for your specific goals.

A strand test lets our stylists see exactly how your hair will respond before performing the full service. It helps us confirm timing, strength, and the final result so there are no surprises and your hair stays healthy. Strand tests are particularly important for corrective color, significant lightening, or if you've been using box dye or have unknown color history. This extra step protects your hair and ensures beautiful, predictable results.

We recommend minimizing too many touch-ups, giving your hair time to "breathe" between appointments. We may recommend perming or relaxing a few weeks before coloring your hair to reduce potential damage. Conditioning is of utmost importance—use deep conditioning treatments regularly. Protect your hair and scalp when exposed to heat or UV damage from the sun. Avoid excessive heat styling and use a heat protectant when you do. Our stylists can recommend specific products best suited for your chemically treated hair.

K18 is a revolutionary molecular repair treatment that works at the peptide level to restore hair's strength and elasticity. Unlike traditional conditioners that just coat the hair, K18's patented peptide actually reconnects broken keratin chains inside the hair structure, repairing damage from color, lightener, heat, and chemical services. It can be used as a standalone treatment ($50+) or added to any color service for protection. Results are immediate and cumulative—the more you use it, the stronger your hair becomes.