Ian Ray C. Garcia
The aesthetic and wellness industry is one sector that is bound to experience an outright transformation in this pandemic era. Known for its being personal and physical in nature, this industry continues to thrive because there is more than just the need for one to feel or look good.
“Having a relaxing massage, a dermal treatment, or simply protecting my body from diseases is more than just a physical routine. For me, it also means becoming more confident and aware on how to boost my health as I face the new normal, ” said 36 year old Jen Manguiob, a self-avowed “health junkie”.
Manguiob, along with her closest friends, has done the whole nine yards – from skin lightening and toning to body contouring, and even gym workout – after health centers were given the greenlight by the government to operate not too long ago.
“Last summer’s lockdown has restricted physical movement, and sadly, it gave us more time to be unproductive and kept us in the kitchen rather than doing exercise outdoors,” she recalled.
Many seemed to have experienced similar predicament that is why when aesthetic and health establishments resumed business, people like Manguiob, rushed for urgent makeovers. But the usual apprehension for safety, especially that the coronavirus is still in our midst, has initially kept some away.
“We immediately addressed this and adapted the necessary protocols required by government in order for us to thrive in the new normal,” said clinic manager Marcel M Lerios of LaserPro, a professional body and skin care center that opened early this year.
Like most establishments, she said their clinic strictly adheres to basic safety protocols of wearing masks, social distancing and proper hygiene. Partitions were also set inside receiving areas, and in consultation and treatment rooms. Staff are also regularly tested for the virus.
“Clients were initially hesitant but after seeing the stringent protocols, they now feel more secure,” she said.
In addition, aesthetic clinics, like LaserPro, now use humidifiers that have anti-viral solutions as well as UV lights, which are turned on overnight to make sure viruses are eliminated before they open the next day. Walk-ins are also not allowed so as to limit the number of transactions done in a day to ensure safety of the next client and the staff.
“The so-called ‘new normal’ doesn’t mean one should forgo other health needs, like a good skin care procedure or a minor medical corrections in one’s body,” said Dr. Grace Quirapas-Madis, a Davao City-based obstetrician and gynecologic oncologist.
Madis, who also trained in Poland for Aesthetic and Cosmetic Gynecology, was the first to use Femilift, an FDA-approved laser machine used to treat various gynecologic and skin conditions.
She works with fellow doctors, Dr Kim Enriquez, Dr Marie Castanos and Dr Roxanne Tay in performing various aesthetic and health procedures. In addition, they render aesthetic procedures to a number of cancer patients who want to “look good” as they continue to fight for recovery.
“Remember, looking good also gives us positivity in ourselves that is great for our mental health and our whole well-being. Something that we direly need in these trying times,” Madis added.
This only means that the aesthetics and wellness industry will not wither away in spite of the challenges. For as long as safety, security and the wellbeing of clients are given top priority, people will appreciate the fact that looking and feeling good – plus staying healthy – have an inexorable link to how we brave our current reality.
CAPTIONS:
1
Vitamic C intravenous drips as well vaccines for influenza and pneumonia are now becoming more popular procedures
3. Wearing of face mask and shield as well as personal protective equipment protects both doctors and clients
5
Health clinics now provide lounges to deter crowding of clients while waiting for their procedure.
6
Aside from basic health protocols, partitions are also set in receiving areas, consultation and treatment rooms for everyone’s safety.
