ISPA SNAPSHOT SURVEY

PEPTIDES HAVE MOVED from a specialized medical conversation into the wellness mainstream. GLP-1 medications are driving much of that attention. The immediate question for spa leaders is not whether every spa should prescribe or administer them, but instead how their growing use may change guest needs and expectations.

The July 2026 ISPA Snapshot Survey suggests the industry is still early in that process. Fifty-nine percent of spa respondents said no changes related to GLP-1 medications or peptides were currently being considered. Among those adapting, the leading areas were retail product selection, hydration and dry-skin treatments, skin-firming services, hair and scalp treatments, and staff and guest education. indirectly. Spas are responding through retail, hydration, skin-firming, staff education and hair or scalp services. Open-ended responses also identified interest in collagen support, body contouring, lymphatic drainage and hair-loss solutions.

“ We are seeing a growing interest in treatments that support skin hydration, firmness and overall skin health.”

— SNAPSHOT SURVEY RESPONDENT

Other respondents said their changes were preemptive because guests had not directly disclosed GLP-1 use.

A trend felt through the guest experience The data suggest that GLP-1’ s spa impact is first being felt

An adjacent opportunity, not a medical shortcut Some spas reported no impact or intentionally avoided

Before adding or marketing a peptide-related offering, bring operations, clinical partners, human resources, marketing, legal counsel and insurance representatives into the conversation.

LOGISTICS l Does the business have the appropriate licenses, medical oversight, privacy systems and emergency protocols? l Can it meet storage, handling, sourcing and disposal requirements? And who manages follow-up?

GUEST NEEDS l What are guests actually asking for, and how will the spa avoid assumptions or stigmatizing language? l Are they seeking medical treatment, appearance support, lifestyle guidance or simply informed service recommendations?

BRAND l Does peptide treatment fit within the spa’ s positioning and guest promise? l Are all marketing and outcome claims supportable?

TEAM READINESS l Are providers trained and comfortable discussing the topic? l Can they clearly distinguish education from medical advice? l Do they know when and where to refer a guest?

SAFETY AND LIABILITY l Have qualified counsel and the spa’ s insurer confirmed scope-of-practice and coverage requirements? l Are products sourced through licensed channels, with compounded-product risks and FDA guidance understood?

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES l Can existing services address guest needs without implying that they treat medication effects? l Would a medical referral relationship be more appropriate than an in-house offering?

PULSE n SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2026 24