Top 15 Marketing Tips for Med Spas in 2024

Let's face it: Running a med spa is hard work. Between consultations, treatments, and keeping up with the latest advancements in aesthetics, who has time to figure out marketing for med spas too?

But here's the thing: Marketing isn't just for the experts. We’ve broken it down into a series of strategic steps you can take to attract new clients and keep your existing ones coming back for more.

So, grab a cup of coffee, and let's explore 15 proven medical spa marketing strategies designed to help your business succeed.

1. Build hyper-local landing pages

People search for med spas with laser focus (pun intended). Don't make them wade through a generic website.

Think of a landing page as a billboard for your med spa. Create dedicated landing pages for your top treatments like Botox®, Dysport, Xeomin, CoolSculpting®, or even that killer microneedling package you offer.

• Think micro, not macro: Create specific pages targeting, for example, "Dysport in [Your Town]" or "Body sculpting near [a landmark]."

• Keywords help people find you: Make sure you include keywords in landing pages relevant to your business. This will boost your Google rankings. Think location + treatment ("Lip filler injections [Your Town]").

• Location, location, location: Make it crystal clear where you are. Add a map, your address, and even a "Book Now" button that links directly to your scheduling page.

2. Launch targeted Google Ads campaigns

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

Many service-based businesses have learned how to master Google Ads and built a loyal clientele through it. Similar to the keyword-based strategy for landing pages, this is how you can use Google Ads effectively:

• Focus on keywords with location: People don't just search for "Botox," they search for "[treatment] near me." Be there when they do. Mention your location in your ads so people can find you when they search for your services.

• Target by demographics: Google Ads allows you to get super specific. Age, income, even interests can help you reach your ideal clients. You can create ads specifically for busy moms looking for wrinkle reduction, or young professionals interested in non-surgical lip enhancement.

• Set a budget you're comfortable with: Google Ads is pay-per-click, so you only pay when someone clicks on your ad. Start small, say $25 a day, and track your results closely. See what kind of return on investment you're getting and gradually scale up winning campaigns.

Idea: Create special ad offers specifically for new clients in your area. A limited-time discount on a popular treatment or a free consultation can be a powerful incentive to click and convert into a paying customer.

3. Integrate video testimonials

People trust people, especially when it comes to aesthetics. Let your happy clients be your loudest cheerleaders and build trust with video testimonials. This is how you can get video testimonials without too much following up:

• Short, high-quality videos are key: Keep them under 2 minutes. Invest in good lighting and sound, or partner with a video editor who can create professional content.

• Post them on your website and social media: Let these video testimonials live everywhere — across all your platforms. Feature them prominently on your website's homepage and landing pages, and share them on social media to build trust and credibility instantly.

• Incentivize video testimonials: Offer a free product or a discount on their next treatment as a thank you for their time and positive feedback. A little nudge can go a long way in acquiring high-quality video testimonials that will resonate with your target audience.

4. Run social media contests

Social media contests are a fun and interactive way to help people discover your brand, build a community, and attract new clients.

Beyond regular posting and content, you can design a winning social media contest for your med spa. Here are some ideas: 

• Theme it around a popular treatment: Tap into current trends and target your ideal client. Is there a specific treatment generating a lot of buzz? Build a contest around that. For example, "Win a carefree summer with laser hair removal."

• Partner with local influencers: Expand your reach and tap into a trusted network by collaborating with local social media influencers who align with your brand. They'll help promote your contest to their audience, exposing you to potential clients who might not have known about your med spa before.

• Make it easy to enter: Don't overwhelm people with complicated entry processes. Keep it simple and encourage engagement by requiring participants to like your page, follow you, and tag a friend in the comments. The easier it is to enter, the more people will join the fun.

Bonus tip: Don't skimp on the grand prize. Offer something truly enticing that will get people excited. This could be a discount for a popular treatment, a luxurious product basket filled with skincare goodies, or even a reduced price package that allows them to experience a variety of your services.

5. Build and track local citations

Local citations are simply any online mentions of your med spa that confirm your legitimacy and presence in your local area.

Search engines like Google use these citations to determine your local ranking, so the more citations you have, the higher you'll climb in search results — meaning more potential clients will discover you.

Do this to become a local citation champion:

• Claim your Google My Business listing: This is your golden ticket to local SEO dominance. Claim your Google My Business listing, fill out every section completely, and optimize it with relevant keywords. Don't forget to include high-quality photos, your service offerings, accurate business hours, and a clear call to action (like "Book an Appointment Today.").

• Get listed on local directories: Expand your online presence by getting listed on popular local directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, MapQuest, and local business associations. The more places you're listed, the stronger your local SEO signal becomes.

• Encourage online reviews: Positive online reviews are essential for any local business. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews on Google My Business, Yelp, and other relevant platforms. Respond to both positive and negative reviews promptly and professionally.

Pro-tip: Free online tools are available to help you track your citations and ensure your information is consistent across all platforms. Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) can hurt your local SEO ranking, so keeping everything up-to-date is crucial.

6. Perfect your Google My Business listing

Your Google My Business (GMB) listing is like a digital storefront for your med spa, so it needs to be informative, visually appealing, and optimized to attract potential clients. Use these tips to optimize your GMB listing:

• Fill out every single detail: Don't leave any section blank. Accurately complete your business profile with your full name, address, phone number, website URL, and category selections that precisely reflect the services you offer.

• Use visuals: Visuals are key in capturing attention online. Upload high-quality photos that showcase your med spa's inviting atmosphere, the latest equipment you use, and happy clients experiencing your treatments.

• Keywords keywords keywords: Integrate relevant keywords throughout your GMB listing, but naturally. Don't stuff keywords in a way that sounds forced. Focus on keywords that local clients might use to search for your services, like "[treatment name] near [your location]."

Pro-tip: Keep your GMB listing fresh. Post regular updates about new services, special offers, or exciting events happening at your med spa. This shows Google you're an active business and can give you a ranking boost.

7. Partner with local community events

Building relationships within your community is a fantastic way to expand your reach and connect with potential clients who might not have otherwise discovered your med spa.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Sponsor local events: Look for events that align with your target audience and brand image. Consider sponsoring a health and wellness fair, a charity gala, or even a cultural and art exhibition. This allows you to set up a branded booth, distribute informative materials, and offer mini consultations or product samples.

• Offer free workshops: People love learning new things, especially when it comes to self-care and beauty. Host a free educational workshop on skincare routines, the benefits of specific treatments, or the science behind aesthetics. This establishes you as a trusted expert and positions your med spa as a valuable resource in the community.

• Partner with local businesses: Collaboration is key. Partner with businesses that complement your services, such as yoga studios, fitness centers, or hair salons. You can offer cross-promotions, like providing discounts to each other's clients, or co-hosting a joint event focused on overall well-being.

Pro-tip: Don't just show up, stand out. When participating in local events, make sure your booth is visually appealing and informative. Offer interactive elements like skin consultations or mini quizzes to keep attendees engaged.

8. Implement a review incentive program

Positive online reviews give your business credibility, and credibility goes a long, long way in building trust.  Since reviews play a significant role in influencing potential clients' decisions, incentivize your happy customers to leave glowing testimonials about their experience at your med spa.

• Offer a discount on their next treatment: A little reward goes a long way. Provide a discount on their next service or product purchase in exchange for leaving a detailed review on Google My Business, Yelp, or another relevant platform.

• Host a monthly review raffle: Encourage a friendly competition by holding a monthly raffle where every client who leaves a review is automatically entered. Offer a desirable prize, like a free product or a discounted service package, to incentivize participation.

• Make it easy and seamless: The review process should be effortless. Place QR codes in your med spa to take them to the right place to leave a review, give them tips if they’re wondering what to talk about, and always respond to reviews.

9. Network with complementary businesses

There's power in numbers, and building relationships with local businesses that complement your services can be a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Learn how to do it right:

• Look for businesses that cater to a similar target audience but don't directly compete with your services. Hair salons, massage therapists, fitness centers, and even makeup artists can all be potential partners.

• Brainstorm creative ways to cross-promote each other's services. Offer bundled packages that combine your aesthetic treatments with their offerings, or provide referral discounts to incentivize clients to explore both businesses.

• Co-host a workshop or event centered around health, wellness, and self-care. This allows you to tap into each other's client base and expand your reach to a wider audience.

Pro-tip: Don't be afraid to get creative. Think outside the box and explore unconventional partnerships. For example, collaborate with a local boutique that sells high-end skincare products to host a beauty and style event.

10. Offer exclusive member discounts

Creating a sense of exclusivity and rewarding your loyal clients is a fantastic way to boost engagement and generate repeat business. Here's how to implement a member discount program that keeps your med spa at the top of their minds:

• Tiered membership options: Cater to different budgets and preferences by offering tiered membership options. A basic level could provide a slight discount on services and products, while a premium tier might offer exclusive benefits like priority booking, complimentary consultations, or early access to new treatments.

• Birthday perks: Make their special day even more special. Offer a birthday discount or a complimentary product sample to show your members you appreciate their loyalty.

• Double points days: Create a sense of urgency and excitement by hosting double points days throughout the year. This incentivizes members to book appointments, ultimately driving sales and increasing customer retention.

Pro-tip: Don't just offer discounts. Think beyond the monetary aspect and provide additional perks for your members, such as access to exclusive webinars, educational workshops, or even members-only events.

11. Launch a referral reward program

Your happy clients are your most powerful marketing asset. Leverage their positive experiences by implementing a referral reward program that incentivizes them to spread the word about your med spa:

• Offer a referral bonus: Reward your existing clients for referring new clients. This could be a discount on their next service, a free product, or even points towards their membership rewards.

• Make it easy to refer: Streamline the referral process by providing clients with unique referral codes or links they can easily share with friends and family.

• Double-sided incentive: Don't forget to incentivize the new client as well. Offer a special discount or introductory package to new clients who come in through a referral program.

Idea: Get creative with your referral rewards. Offer a chance to win a luxurious treatment package for both the referrer and the new client, creating a fun and engaging incentive.

12. Develop a seasonal marketing campaign

As you figure out how to market a medical spa, don’t sleep on the seasonal campaigns. Seasonal changes present a perfect opportunity to tailor your marketing messages and change things up. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Spring skincare refresh: As the weather warms up, create a marketing campaign focused on spring cleaning for your skin. Promote detoxifying IV treatments, exfoliating products, and laser skin treatments to help clients prepare for the sunny season.

• Summer body confidence: As summer approaches, highlight treatments that enhance body confidence, such as laser hair removal, body sculpting procedures, or weight loss treatments.

• Holiday gift guide: The holiday season is prime time for gifting. Develop a festive marketing campaign featuring curated gift baskets filled with luxurious skincare products or gift certificates for your most popular treatments.

Pro-tip: Use social media to promote your seasonal campaigns. Run targeted ads, host contests with festive themes, and offer exclusive holiday discounts to capture the attention of potential clients.

13. Collaborate with influencers

The rise of social media influencers has opened doors to powerful marketing opportunities. Partnering with the right influencer can expose your med spa to a highly targeted audience and generate significant excitement around your services:

• Work with micro-influencers: Don't be intimidated by mega-influencers with millions of followers. Consider collaborating with micro-influencers who have a smaller but highly engaged local following. They often have a strong connection with their audience and can provide a more authentic endorsement of your med spa.

• Choose wisely: Seek influencers whose image and values resonate with your brand identity and target audience. Look for influencers who actively promote self-care, aesthetics, and a healthy lifestyle.

• Co-create engaging content: Move beyond generic sponsored posts. Work with the influencer to develop creative content that showcases your services in an engaging way. This could involve product reviews, treatment demos, or even behind-the-scenes glimpses into your spa environment.

Pro-tip: Don't underestimate the power of long-term partnerships. Building a relationship with a local influencer allows for ongoing collaboration and fosters trust with their audience, leading to more meaningful brand advocacy.

14. Distribute branded merchandise

Subtle brand reinforcement can go a long way in keeping your med spa at the forefront of your clients' minds. You can strategically distribute branded merchandise by focusing on:

• High-quality essentials: Focus on functional items that your clients will use regularly, like stylish water bottles, tote bags, or cosmetic pouches. Every time they reach for these items, they'll be reminded of your brand.

• Limited edition options: Create a sense of exclusivity by offering limited-edition branded merchandise during special promotions or seasonal events. This sparks excitement and encourages clients to take advantage of the opportunity to snag a unique item.

• Local businesses: Expand your reach by collaborating with complementary local businesses. Offer co-branded merchandise, like coffee shop mugs with your spa logo or gym towels featuring both businesses' branding. This exposes you to a new audience while providing value to your existing clients.

Idea: Get creative with your merchandise. Think beyond typical items. Consider offering branded phone cases, travel toiletry bags, or even luxurious towels embroidered with your logo.

15. Regularly update promotional offers

Freshness is key in marketing. Keep your audience engaged by regularly updating your promotional offers and highlighting new services or seasonal specials:

• Flash sales and limited-time deals: Create a sense of urgency and excitement with flash sales or limited-time discounts on popular treatments or product bundles. This encourages immediate action and can be a great way to attract new clients looking for a good deal.

• Themed promotions: Tap into current trends and holidays to design engaging promotional offers. For example, create a "Galentine's Day Glow Up" package or a "Back-to-School Skincare Refresh" special.

Pro-tip: Leverage multiple channels to promote your offers. Announce them on your website, social media platforms, and even through email marketing campaigns. The more touch points you create, the higher the chance of reaching new clients and generating interest.

Need help with marketing for your med spa? Try Moxie

We hope these med spa marketing ideas help you grow your business and attract loyal clients. Moxie empowers med spa owners across the country to grow faster, bring in more profit, and achieve real success.

We take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what you do best — providing exceptional care to your clients.

Here's how Moxie can help your med spa thrive:

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

• Hands-on, expert growth coaching: Our dedicated coaches meet with you regularly to support your growth, give you hands-on help, and guide you through the process of launching, managing, and growing your med spa.

• Software that’s built for marketing: From online appointment scheduling to charting to text message marketing and memberships — we’ve got you covered. With Moxie, it’s easier than ever to run your business and wow your clients.

‍Book a Free Strategy Session Today and See How We Can Help.