How to reduce no-shows at your med spa
No-shows cost med spas thousands annually. Premium treatments mean premium losses when clients don't show up. Here's how to protect your practice.
The real cost of no-shows
A single missed Botox appointment might cost you $400-600. A missed filler appointment could be $800+. Multiply that by even a few no-shows per week, and you're looking at significant lost revenue.
Strategy 1: Require deposits for all bookings
The most effective way to reduce no-shows is requiring a deposit at booking.
Recommended deposit structure:- Injectables: $50-100 deposit
- Laser treatments: 25-50% of service cost
- Body contouring: 50% deposit
- IV therapy: Full prepayment
Deposits serve two purposes: they confirm commitment and offset losses if clients don't show.
Strategy 2: Implement a clear cancellation policy
Your cancellation policy should be:
- Clearly stated during booking
- Confirmed via email
- Reasonable but firm
- 48+ hours notice: Full refund or reschedule
- 24-48 hours notice: Credit toward future service
- Less than 24 hours: Deposit forfeited
Strategy 3: Send strategic reminders
Automated reminders dramatically reduce no-shows:
- 7 days before: Initial confirmation email
- 48 hours before: Reminder with cancellation deadline
- 24 hours before: Final reminder with directions
- 2 hours before: SMS reminder
Include easy links to reschedule if needed.
Strategy 4: Confirm high-value appointments
For treatments over $500, a personal confirmation call 24-48 hours before adds a human touch and reinforces commitment.
Strategy 5: Track and address repeat offenders
Keep notes on clients who no-show repeatedly. Options include:
- Requiring full prepayment
- Adding to a restricted list
- Having an honest conversation
Strategy 6: Fill last-minute openings
Create a waitlist system for popular treatments. When cancellations happen, notify waitlisted clients immediately.
Key takeaways
- Deposits are your first line of defense
- Clear policies set expectations
- Multiple reminders reduce forgetfulness
- Personal touches work for premium treatments
- Track patterns and address them