Sustainability is a buzzword in all sectors and aesthetic medicine cannot be left behind. While sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle practices become more popular with awareness towards issues of environment conservation, many in the field of healthcare and beauty are doing their part too.

The pursuit of aesthetic medicine is known for its use of cutting-edge technologies and materials, but these tantalising practices are increasingly being called out by critics on their environmental cost. Where this ties in with aesthetic medicine is a production-driven, sociocultural trend towards sustainability stems from ethical and environmental concerns as well as consumer demands. 

Background research has shown that environmental pollution is an ever-increasing issue with a significant public health impact yet largely unaddressed in the core medical curriculum. This article aims to evaluate (i) how common ecological best practices are within aesthetic clinics globally and among medical aesthetics industry leaders, as well as current areas most commonly being addressed or realised concurrently without recognition; (ii) what specific benefits exist for such efforts and where can improvements be made by better understanding challenges faced; (iii), practical implementation steps toward becoming a more environmentally conscious clinic/provider.

Why Sustainability Matters in Aesthetics

The traditional aesthetic procedures consume many materials and products that are not eco-friendly, which can generate great waste causing environmental pollution.

Single-use plastic syringes, gloves, and toxic skincare products are an aesthetic scene for another battle zone for sustainability. In addition, many aesthetic procedures are energy intensive, for example, laser treatments and light therapies further contribute to the carbon footprint of this field.

Aside from reducing environmental damage, adopting eco-practices in aesthetic medicine is congruent with the overarching medical principle of “do no harm”. Sustainability not only provides environmental benefits but also economic advantages like lower costs in waste management and energy consumption, as well as social rewards for meeting the demands of an increasing number of environmentally aware consumers.

Current Trends in Eco-Friendly Aesthetic Medicine

A new wave of sustainable practices in aesthetic medicine is slowly catching on, with many clinics adopting those small changes that make a big difference.

Among the biggest trends is the adoption of biodegradable fillers that decompose naturally inside human tissue with less long-term environmental impact. Relatively energy-efficient technologies (such as LED-based equipment) and devices using less power are also increasingly on the market, leading to performance with energy cost savings.

High on the list when it comes to reducing waste are single-use plastics such as gloves, gowns and syringes – many aesthetics practitioners have sought reusable or compostable alternatives for this category in 2020.

Going above and beyond, other green aesthetic clinics also include a full recycling program to reduce waste that will end up in landfills. Together, these practices result in lower environmental footprints and demonstrate leadership for clinics available to execute their protocol plans on a new era of lean health.

Benefits of Going Green in Aesthetics

Economically, clinics can achieve cost savings through more efficient resource use and reduced waste disposal fees. 

Environmentally conscious patients are increasingly seeking out green aesthetic clinics that align with their values, which can enhance a clinic’s reputation and attract a loyal patient base. 

Moreover, sustainable practices can improve the health and safety of both patients and staff by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants commonly found in non-eco-friendly products. The overall clinic environment can become more pleasant and health-focused, contributing to better outcomes and patient satisfaction. 

In a competitive market, these benefits can provide a significant edge, differentiating eco-conscious clinics from those that have not yet embraced sustainability.

Sustainability Challenges and Solutions in Aesthetic Medicine

Needless to say, eco-friendly practices offer numerous benefits but going sustainable does come with its set of issues. One of the factors that may hamper implementation is the upfront costs, as the cost is often more expensive with eco-friendly products and technologies, which can present a problem for smaller clinics.

It can also be a challenge to find substitutional, sustainable materials and products that measure up against medical standards. Regulatory checkpoints may also change, established procedures will need to be adapted along with continued training for staff and changes in workflows within green aesthetic clinic operations. However, these hurdles are often avoidable with careful planning and execution.

This can be partially solved through government incentives and subsidies for sustainable practices to lower the impact of initial costs or in some situations, partnerships with eco-friendly suppliers that guarantee a regular supply of these products.

Clinics can start small, working incrementally towards changes that are better suited so as not to affect the budget or disrupt operations. Having an engaged staff or introducing them to the significance of sustainability helps build a green culture for your clinic.

How to Implement Sustainable Practices in Your Clinic

Implementing sustainable practices in an aesthetic clinic begins with conducting a thorough environmental audit to identify areas where improvements can be made. This includes evaluating the clinic’s energy use, waste generation, and product sourcing. 

Based on the audit results, clinics can develop a sustainability plan that outlines specific actions, such as switching to energy-efficient lighting, reducing single-use plastics, and opting for biodegradable or reusable materials. 

Staff training is crucial to ensure that all team members are aware of the new practices and understand their role in maintaining them. 

Engaging patients in sustainability efforts can also be beneficial, such as offering incentives for participating in recycling programs or choosing eco-friendly treatment options. 

Collaboration with suppliers who prioritise sustainability can provide access to the latest eco-friendly products and technologies. Regularly reviewing and updating the sustainability plan ensures that the clinic continues to improve its environmental performance over time.

The Future of Eco-friendly Aesthetic Medicine

As the demand for sustainable practices grows, the future of aesthetic medicine is likely to see even more innovative developments. 

Ongoing research into biodegradable materials and eco-friendly technologies is expected to yield new products that offer the same or better efficacy as traditional options, with significantly lower environmental impact. 

Regulatory changes may also drive the adoption of greener practices, with governments around the world increasingly focusing on reducing healthcare’s carbon footprint. 

Clinics that adopt sustainable practices early will be well-positioned to adapt to these changes and continue to meet patient expectations. The ongoing commitment to sustainability will require staying informed about the latest advancements and being willing to integrate new technologies and practices as they become available.

FAQs

What are some current trends in eco-friendly aesthetic medicine?
Current trends include the use of biodegradable fillers, energy-efficient devices, and reducing single-use plastics. Some clinics are also implementing comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs and choosing sustainable materials and technologies to minimise their environmental impact.

Is sustainability in aesthetic medicine just a trend, or is it here to stay?
Eco-friendly aesthetic medicine is more than just a trend; it is becoming an integral part of the industry due to increasing environmental awareness and regulatory pressures. As consumers continue to prioritise eco-friendly options and governments enforce stricter environmental regulations, sustainability is likely to remain a central focus in the field.

Can sustainable practices really make a difference in a clinic’s operations?
Yes, sustainable practices can significantly impact a clinic’s operations by reducing costs, improving efficiency, enhancing the clinic’s reputation, and attracting a loyal patient base that values environmental responsibility. Over time, these practices can lead to a more successful and respected clinic.

What resources are available for clinics looking to adopt sustainable practices?
Clinics can access a variety of resources, including government incentives, eco-friendly supplier partnerships, and industry-specific sustainability guidelines. Additionally, many professional organisations offer training and support for clinics transitioning to sustainable operations.

Conclusion

The rise of eco-friendly practices in aesthetic medicine represents a significant shift towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to healthcare and beauty. 

Here at Acquisition Aesthetics, we highlight the importance of sustainability in every aspect of our practice and are applied throughout our JCCP-approved aesthetic training programmes. 

By embracing these practices, clinics can enhance their reputation, attract environmentally conscious patients, and contribute to the global effort to protect the environment. Leading by example, aesthetic practitioners have the opportunity to not only improve their own operations but also to inspire others in the industry to adopt and promote sustainability. 

Through commitment and innovation, the aesthetic medicine field can continue to thrive while making a positive impact on the planet.