A short list of questions for your provider

A checklist for your consultation

Ask each one and note the answer.

• License and role of the person performing the treatment
• Their training and how often they do this treatment
• The device, product or method being used
• What a series involves and how it is spaced out
• Aftercare instructions and how long they apply
• Possible side effects and how they are handled
• What happens and who pays if something goes wrong
• Total cost in writing before you start

Write it down first

Memory is unreliable when you are in an unfamiliar room with a lot of new information. A short written list keeps the conversation on track.

Put down your medical conditions, medications and supplements, allergies, and any cosmetic treatments you have had before. Add the questions you care about most. If you have photos of a skin concern that changes over time, you can bring those too.

Take your time

There is rarely a good reason to decide about a cosmetic treatment in a single visit. If a provider pushes you to book that day, that tells you something.

Other signs to slow down: no consultation, vague answers about who performs the treatment, or no written cost. You can look up most health licenses on the Vermont state board website. A provider who is properly licensed will usually tell you their license type and number if you ask.