Laser Focus

Medical aesthetics spa brings cutting-edge techniques to Indianapolis

Written by Annie Mosbaugh Knapp

After having her two children, Christina Hughes noticed a huge difference in the condition of her hair, skin and nails. “I knew many women had the same issues, and I wanted to not only fix my own imperfections, but help others as well,” she says. To that end, Christina obtained a cosmetology and an aesthetician license, with the goal of one day opening her own medical spa. When she furthered her education at the National Laser Institute, the number-one rated medical aesthetic laser training program in the country, she knew she had found her calling. Through the Institute, Christina became certified in a wide range of medical aesthetic treatments, including laser hair removal, laser wrinkle reduction, intense pulse photo facial, cellulite reduction, tattoo reduction, radiofrequency and laser skin tightening, non-ablative skin resurfacing, microneedling and more.

When she was ready to open her own medical spa, Christina hired a medical compliance officer, partnering with Dr. Eduardo Rivera, who specializes in dermatology and medical aesthetics in Columbus and Madison, IN and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Rivera owns Skin Solutions Dermatology and Aesthetics and has extensive experience in Mohs Surgery, skin cancer and repairs, laser surgery, cosmetic fillers, sclerotherapy, and more. Once Dr. Rivera became Christina’s medical director, she was able to realize her dream of opening Laser Focus, LLC, located on the northside of Indianapolis.

Working under the delegation and supervision of dermatologist Rivera and as a certified laser technician with licenses as a cosmetologist and aesthetician, plus almost a decade of experience in the beauty and medical aesthetics industry, Christina is considered an expert. She specializes in many types of treatments and laser modalities, including acne therapy, collagen induction therapy, epidermabrasion, microdermabrasion, advanced facial treatments, radiofrequency, RF with microneedling, laser resurfacing, IPL, chemical peels, LED light therapy, laser hair reduction and more. Her easy going personality, combined with her knowledge and professionalism, complements the cohesiveness of the Laser Focus team.

Together with Dr. Rivera and their talented team, she helps patients achieve their ultimate skincare goals by listening, educating, encouraging, and treating with the most state-of-the-art equipment. Dr. Rivera supports Christina’s continuous education and training, and she makes it a priority to stay abreast of the newest treatments and trends by attending industry seminars and participating in specialized training, as well as continuing education opportunities. She’s confident in the efficacy of the treatments she offers, and her patients are always her top priority. “It’s a joy to interact with my patients and spend quality time to build a trusting relationship. My patients always come first–they believe in me and know that I will boost their outside appearance, which reflects on the inside as well,” says Christina.

We asked Christina about the latest innovations in laser technology and the most effective techniques.

What are the latest and best treatments/procedures popular right now in the medical aesthetics industry?

Morpheus8 is the treatment that everyone is currently raving about. It’s received a lot of attention on social media because celebrities in LA and New York are constantly posting about their results. Laser Focus is one of the few facilities in the area to offer Morpheus8, which utilizes micro-needling and radio frequency technology that triggers the skin’s natural healing response to promote collagen production, leading to tightening and lifting. Popular for its extremely short recovery time and noticeably visible results, Morpheus8 is ideal for patients who want to improve their appearance but don’t want to undergo surgery. It diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne, scarring, skin tone and texture, and it improves skin laxity. Also, it’s a great alternative to Botox and fillers–it truly is a miracle service.

What is your most popular treatment or service?

Laser hair removal. We use DiolazeXL, by Inmode, which is an advanced laser hair removal procedure that safely and gently eliminates unwanted hair. The best part is that it’s virtually painless. DiolazeXL has a built-in skin cooling surface, which makes treatment more comfortable than with other devices, and DiolazeXL only requires a few sessions. Our DiolazeXL has one of the largest treatment spot sizes, making treatments convenient and fast. During laser hair removal treatment, a diode laser beam is targeted toward the hair follicles. The penetrating energy then heats up the root of the hair, destroying it, which prevents future hair growth.

What services offer the best value for a customer who is budget- or time-conscious?

Lumecca is a great value, as it provides great skin rejuvenation in just one or two treatments, versus four-to-six treatments with other standard Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. Lumecca is the most powerful IPL treatment available to address pigmented and vascular lesions such as sunspots. After just one treatment, you’ll notice significant improvement in your complexion and skin clarity. Lumecca improves the appearance of age spots, sun damage, spider veins, freckles, and redness. This treatment can also produce clear, beautiful skin in about 10 days. Lumecca operates using photo thermolysis, which provides a photofacial through the delivery of a comfortable light treatment.

What is the most luxurious service you offer?

My team and I have developed combination packages that include both Lumecca and Morpheus8 treatments, one after the other. The light therapy combined with the microneedling provides optimal results, treating both fine lines and sunspots. To elevate that package even more, we can simultaneously perform body contouring as you undergo the Lumecca and Morpheus8 treatments. Our Evolve Transform by Inmode provides a non-invasive, hands-free total body treatment, quickly transforming the shape of muscles, while treating fat and improving the look of your skin. It is the perfect combination treatment for all areas. Transform reinvents body sculpting and muscle toning, delivering highly efficacious results with no downtime, and is suitable for all body types.

What should someone consider when selecting a facility or provider?

It’s important to choose a high-quality med spa with a qualified medical director, certified and experienced staff members with a reputation for excellence. Before you make your first appointment, consider the following factors:

Experience

Thoroughly scan the website of a med spa and check the credentials of each staff member. Do they seem legit? Also, to ensure everyone’s safety, each med spa should be run by a medical director who is certified in medical aesthetic medicine. This medical director’s credentials as well as the treatment professionals should be listed on the website. I am a licensed laser technician, cosmetologist and aesthetician working under the direct supervision and delegation of Dr. Rivera who specializes in dermatology and aesthetics.

Reviews

A medical aesthetics spa is only as good as its reputation. Check out reviews on Google and other places around the web to see what other customers thought of their experiences. If you have friends who have been to medical aesthetics spas, talk to them about how comfortable they felt, and if the treatments were worth their investment. Doing your research will only benefit you in the long run.

Facilities

A comfortable, relaxing environment goes a long way when you are undergoing cosmetic procedures. What is your first impression of the organization from an aesthetic standpoint? Is it clean, calm, and welcoming?

Customer Service

A warm, caring staff is a large part of what creates a welcoming atmosphere. Think about how you feel when you first walk through the doors. In your initial interactions, does the staff take time to listen to your needs and goals, and answer all questions you may have about the treatment process? A quality med spa should provide a customized treatment program that addresses your specific medical aesthetic needs. The better the customer service in the beginning, the more likely your end results will also be positive.

For more information and Grand Opening special offers, visit LaserFocusIndy.com, or go to @LaserFocusIndy on Instagram or Facebook.