Full disclosure, when I first came in on my first visit a few months ago, I wasn't a fan. One of the girls at the front desk was very polite but the other one sat with one of the aestheticians and shit talked me for not wanting to sign a photography waiver. I guess they thought I couldn't hear them. I thought it was going to be a stereotypical med spa full of shallow women who made others feel bad about themselves. I was fully prepared to do the consult since I was already there and then politely decline and never come back. However, Dr. Drysdale more than made up for it. He's not what I would expect from a doc at a Med spa; I expected someone who was going to tell me about everything that was wrong with me and try to sell me every treatment under the sun. He did the opposite. He said, "a lot of people come in here and don't like anything about themselves, but everyone has something nice about their face. I don't care if it's only one little tooth, there's still something beautiful in everyone." Swear I'm not bullshitting. Totally unexpected and definitely got my attention. He gave really thorough explanations about why he recommended the the things he did, and all of them made sense. He also explained why I didn't need to do some of the things I wanted to, and actually made me feel better about myself before I even agreed to do anything. It might be part of a sales technique, but if it makes me feel better about what I naturally have, then I'm definitely buying in. My experience with Dr Drysdale is he wants to help me feel my best. I will definitely say he's a little random sometimes, but I don't mind at all. He asks me what I'm trying to do and helps me get there instead of pushing me to do something I'm not interested in. On my second visit back, the rude girls were gone and the nice receptionist remained. I'm happy going in there now, and I'm happy to see Dr Drysdale. All his recommendations have been on the money. There was only one time I felt like a procedure wasn't working, I was scheduled in immediately and he fixed it right away. Can't give enough props to him or his new staff. I will definitely continue to go here for all my Med spa needs read more

Anna is simply fantastic: A consummate professional, thorough and attentive. She makes flying in for the treatments absolutely worth it. Her conversation renders the experience swift and painless. She's a true credit to Dr. D's practice! read more

I went to Dr. Anna McLean for my first ever laser treatment. I was nervous about the process and what my face would look like immediately afterwards, but Dr. McLean was amazing. She walked me through every step of the process. It was quick and painless. The best part is there was no downtime afterwards, and my face immediately felt tighter. She finished off the treatment with a little Botox in my temples, and it's very natural looking. It's now been a few weeks, and I love the results. I can't wait to book my next treatments with her and will definitely be going back. read more

Dr. Jonathan Drysdale is an artist and dedicated to his patients. He recommends a course of treatment that is optimal for the results being sought. He takes his time with his patients and talks through the procedure while performing it. I would not go anywhere else. read more

Misha at Hela Med Spa was amazing! Professional, relaxing, and made the experience so comfortable. My skin feels refreshed and glowing--highly recommend! read more

Hela used to be sooo good! About a month ago I had a facial with Sophia (who was their master aesthetician) Standard facial runs for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Sophia was running late and my facial lasted for 1 hour. She probably put a mask on me like 3 times and she didn't even give me any small messages on my neck or shoulders. I know for a fact she was on the phone taking a video or videos for her Instagram account because I saw her posting it a few hours later. Sophia also tried so hard selling products and commenting on using high end products they are selling at Hela. If I am interested I'd ask for the product. Stop making people feel pressure buying stuff. I ended up being anxious instead feeling getting pampered. Definitely missed the OG Hela staff (Ashley, Laura, Shara) read more

I found Hela while looking for a new spa after I moved to DC. And I'm so glad I found Erika! She has been a lifesaver -- I went in for Botox for my TMJ and was so impressed how much it has helped. It's been a few months so I'm at the time where I'll need to go back. The support staff is always responsive and they're all very sweet. I will note it has gotten incredibly tough to get an appointment with Erika since she's in such high demand but I've always been able to make appointments work! There are even some weekend offerings which are best for me, so I respect that Hela has options for everyone. Obviously this is a place where you are investing a lot of money so don't come here if you're looking for Groupon botox but...this is your face. You don't want to pay half price and risk it looking crazy. Erika and all the staff eliminate the risks! I'm going to see about getting in with Ashley since she has a lot of great facial options but I can't wait to go back! read more

My original review was taken down so beware of very shady business practices here. Had a terrible experience with Hela. Face is ruined after terrible injections. I came in for a a service that was $250. Add a 1 in front of that and that's what I ended up paying without them telling me anything on how much it would cost before they did the service-over $1200 for injections that messed up my face. I tried speaking to several people about the cost while I was there especially because I wasn't happy with the work, they didn't even let me pay it over time. Zero accountability, zero compassion. *Update* I've spoken with the office here, which was useless, they offered me a $250 credit when I told them I'm not even in the area anymore. It amazes me that after all this, companies would rather lose countless other customers who read this review than try to make it right. read more

I never leave reviews, and I didn't used to get routine facials either, but there's a first for everything!!! I'm eternally grateful for having found Sophia. She's become my go-to for facials and micro needling. She's very patient, kind, and extremely knowledgeable. I couldn't imagine going anyplace else for my skincare needs! Thank you Hela, and thank you, Sophia! read more

I highly recommend Sophia. From facials to lasers, she's the go-to person and I shouldn't leave out Dr. D, he rocks! He pays attention to your needs and listens then decides if it's a good choice. He's all about natural. Hela Spa...I hela love ya! read more

This was from bike 2 work day 2019 and I did not know about Hela so kudos for participating in the local event. I had some shoulder and neck tightness and Mackenzie massaged the area. It was great. I plan to check out the place on M st in the near future. read more

Hela Medical Spa - Hela Spa at bike to work 2019 Georgetown - Skin Care Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I last came here a little more than a year ago when I heard of QWO, the new cellulite eliminating treatment. They offered it and I decided to spend the $$$ and get the 3 part treatment on my rear end. Staff was friendly; Dr. D was professional and nice; the procedure was relatively painless (except for the expected painful bruise which was expected). I was told that results would appear after the third treatment. I waited patiently and nothing. My butt looks the same, except for some improvement due to my recent intense workouts. Cellulite is still there and I've never seen any decrease in the dimple population. I thought waiting would help and I'd eventually see something, but so far nada. Dr D tried to help by applying some sort of laser on the area, but it didn't do any. QWO was a complete waste of money. I'm not sure why QWO is advertised the way it is; doctors have called it a game changer. I personally saw no change. I decided to finally post a review over a year later because I was researching another treatment and my irritation at paying almost 3k for a zero results procedure still chaps my still dimpled hide. In future, I recommend they follow up with patients and help when treatments don't go as planned. It was obvious it wasn't working. In the end, I gave up and just increased my workouts. Qwo is a dud and shouldn't be offered anywhere. It did not get rid of my cellulite, not even close. 3 stars because of zero results after completing the three part treatment and lack of proper follow up. read more

I have gone to Hela for several different treatments, all of which have been amazing. I have seen Elle the most--she has done Vela Shape for me and is the most kind and attentive person! I truly look forward to it every time. It is always a positive experience with excellent results. Elle never hesitates to answer my questions (no matter how many I ask) and puts a lot of careful thought into treatment recommendations. It is always a pleasure to see her (and everyone at Hela)! Thank you Elle and Hela for everything! read more

Elle is absolutely fantastic and I made the right choice in going to Hela and seeing her. She made helpful recommendations for which treatments would be best for my desired results. Also, she was thoughtful in providing her aftercare instructions, answering any questions I had post-treatment, and making sure I was comfortable during my treatments. I will definitely be back to see Elle! read more

Bonnie, Bonnie, Bonnie!!! I have to rave about my Facial/Glycolic peel with her. From the winter temps drying out my skin, to working out/sweating, and wearing full coverage makeup my skin started to break out. Especially in the cheek/jaw area. My skin scars easily, so finding a good Medical Esthetician is extremely important. Bonnie specializes in all skin types. But most importantly, she is the best when it comes to women of color. The extractions did not leave any scaring or redness. She did not push any products on me to buy, but better yet offered samples to try at home. Pros - On time! I arrived 40 minutes early and Bonnie was able to start my facial 20 minutes early. - Great for African American skin Or women (and men) of color. - Green Products - They offer several types of Peels - Offers Samples to try before deciding to buy. - Out of products? They can ship them to you. - Squeaky Clean - Nice Location in Georgetown (Across from BCBG Store) Cons - The location is pretty small there isn't a inside spa waiting room (once you have signed in) with lockers, drinks, blow dryers, robes or for relaxing. - One Bathroom - Waxing is expensive! For a basic underarm wax it was $35 whereas most spa's charge $15-20 read more

I always have a great experience at Hela, but this review is specifically for a deep pore facial with Anna. This was one of the best, most thorough facials I've ever had. It lasted for 1.5 hours and left my skin feeling the cleanest it's been since the pandemic started. Anna was incredibly thorough extracting gunk from my pores and massaging serums into my face. She also answered all my questions about the products and techniques she was using. It was so relaxing! I'd definitely go back to Anna again for a deep pore facial. Despite the high price, the experience is worth it. Thanks, Hela! read more

I cannot say enough good things about Hela Medical Spa, and specifically Erika Barry. I actually came across Erika on Instagram a few years ago, and I was so impressed with her work and overwhelming knowledge that when I decided it was time to start getting Botox she was the only person I was going to go and see. Since then I have been going to Hela to see Erika every 4 months, and couldn't be happier with the results each time - expertly done and always natural looking. Be sure to book in advance. Erika's appointments book up months in advance - a testament to her unparalleled skills!! read more

Pros: nice location, nice staff, organized. Went in for a consult for Botox. I was upcharged a ridiculous amount of $. I usually get about 15 units in my forehead area and I am satisfied. This NP wanted me to do AT LEAST 50!!!! (Which would've cost me $700+) L O L ! I politely declined and that was that. I also did a cortisone shot on my face with Dr. Bobby. I didn't have an appointment but they were nice enough to squeeze me in. He very quickly skimmed over what it was and assured me that it would completely go away in a day or two. First and second day I didn't notice any changes. The third day it semi flattened down but by the 5th day it was completely back to what it originally looked like. From my experience, it's safe to say that the cortisone shot did practically nothing. In my opinion, if you are going to charge so much, at least have a good quality product or service to match that price. read more

Updated review: I returned to hela and saw Erika this time. She is fantastic and definitely lives up to the social media hype! She is extremely efficient and effective - I look forward to my next appointment with her! read more

I recently relocated to DC. After hours of research and reviews I stumbled upon HMS. This is where fate meets destiny... The staff is incredibly personable and professional. I knew I was in great hands. Dr. Drysdale is my King!! I recommend anyone and everyone to check out this establishment. I received the fractional CO2 laser facial resurfacing treatment. Already swooning over my immediate results and follow up appointments. Big thank you to everyone at HMS! read more

Just got back from getting my Reykjavik massage at Hela for Spa Week. The whole experience was very nice, and I would certainly go back to Hela for either more massage, or to try some of their other treatments. The interior at Hela is very nice and, well, Scandinavian. Soothing smells and sounds and colors. Too bad the Georgetown traffic and street construction is so damn loud. Thankfully, the smart folks at Hela made sure that their treatment rooms are in the back of the building, away from M Street. My massage therapist was a petite lady, and I had doubts as to whether she'd be able to make an impression on my super-tense back, but wow, she had some really strong hands. She did deep-tissue work on my back, and Swedish massage everywhere else, which was perfectly reasonable given the time period. The Spa Week special was a 45-minute massage for $50. The regular price is $100 for 60 minutes, so that's a pretty good discount. In 45-minutes Jessica was able to give me a pretty thorough full-body massage, and spend a little extra time on my back, just like I had requested. As others have said, the staff here is very friendly. I left feeling much more relaxed and calm than I did when I first went in. read more

Hela Medical Spa - Skin Care Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Every once in a while I like to pamper myself with a spa visit because in the words of L'Oréal Paris, "I'm worth it". I made an appointment at Hela Spa for the Greta Garbo facial. As I entered the spa, I immediately felt comfortable and relaxed. The white, light green, and neutral colors inside the spa, made for a tranquil and clean décor. I was greeted by a friendly receptionist who confirmed my appointment and offered me a glass of water or tea. I chose water. I took a seat on the comfy couch and flipped through a magazine I selected from the magazine rack. I was on time for my appointment, but I had to wait about fifteen minutes before I was called for my facial. The esthetician was friendly, but she was focused on getting me to spend more money by adding on services and purchasing products. I was put off by the sales pitch, which prevented me from being totally relaxed during my facial. Sales pitch aside, I enjoyed my facial. My face felt soft and had a wonderful glow afterwards. read more

I can't say enough good things about the spot. I'm so many was extremely extremely nervous and warry about Botox. I just always felt like they look very fake on people, or had that desperate housewives kind of look to them. I really dislike that. But I also I knew my lips were basically nonexistent and I always wanted to feel... I don't know a little nicer, with actual lips! Dr. Bobby and Dr. Drysdale are incredible. Dr. Bobby is just the kindest, most positive person in the planet. You will love your experience here! read more

Got a standard facial done with Sophia and loved it! The environment was very relaxed, I felt comfortable, and my skin looks great. I hope to return another time. I would definitely recommend. read more

I used to love going here. I saw one injector that has now moved on. I came here and did not know she was let go, but I was assured I was in good hands. The whole time the provider was badmouthing the old injector (the very famous on on instagram) saying she was lying about certain things etc. Well, I look worse and had to track down the injector bunny who now runs a beautiful successful business, I mean top notch. So glad I found her. This place is not what it used to be. The front desk is not knowledgeable when I communicate with them over the phone or in person. Hopefully the revamp the people working in the office. It is truly a pity. read more

Just had the most absurd experience here. I had never been here but booked an appt with a very experienced injector that I have been following for years. I drove 45 minutes. When I got there, I walked upstairs and at least 2 cops are arresting a man in the waiting area. The front desk women hurries and shews me in a triage room for another girl to take my info, temp, pics etc. The cops finish arresting the man and take him out and the girl shows me to my room. Doctor Drysdale comes in, visibly flustered, and introduces himself and asks if I was on his schedule or the injector who I came to sees schedule. I said I was in hers. He proceeds to tell me that she is not here and that she is no longer with the practice and that he can't tell me anything else about it because he "doesn't know if I'm someone she sent in to get information from them". I said "uhhhhh I'm not a spy? I came to get my lips done by her specifically because I've been following her for years" he proceeds to tell me how he trained her and he does lips just as good as she does and how he founded this place in 2005 (I think he told me this 2 or 3 times), and how today was crazy with 8 cops arresting someone and that the man is getting committed. I told him I completely understand that it was a weird thing to happen, but no one communicated with me at all beforehand. This whole time I'm waiting for him to tell me he's joking. He didn't. I said that it was ridiculous that I drove here because no one called me to inform me that she was no longer at the practice and that I didn't even know him, I've never seen him, and I do not want my services done by him. He did not apologize for any inconvenience and simply said "I guess you'll find her, I'm sure she will be injecting somewhere else" and did not offer me any sort of discount or anything and let me walk out. VERY SKETCHY Updated: here is their response. Unbelievable. I'm also attaching pics of my appt confirmation and an email I got after I left stating that I paid $0 read more

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Let me start this post by saying that I work in the aesthetic industry and I know most all of the DC injectable providers. I'm extremely picky about who injects my face. Erika has been doing my injections for about six months now. She is so talented and knowledagble. Every time I sit with her I am impressed. She keeps me looking fresh and enhances my features instead of altering them. I'm in my late 20s and have begun to notice that tired look. Erika has kept me looking the way I did a few years ago. She mixes medical with cosmetic. She is so thorough. I highly recommend her for any and all injectable needs. Also, Ashley gives a fantastic facial/ microneedling/ IPL etc. nicest person. Both of these women are stunning, talented, and make the spa experience exactly what it should be: delightful!! read more

I never win anything and I won 12 Everglow facials for a year! I've already done quite a few of them and I love it there. All the estheticians are incredible but Danielle knocks it out of the park. Not only do you get a killer facial, but she basically gives you a massage. I legit fell asleep today I was so relaxed. Of course she recommends products that would work for your skin but I never feel pressured to purchase. The front desk staff have all been incredible, too. Every question I've ever had...answered quickly with a smile. I already can't wait to go back! read more

I had my second Broad Band Light treatment and third appointment at Hela today, with Jaclyn being the one performing the treatment. I cannot overstate how amazing she has been with customer service, recommendations for treatments and actual treatment performance. She went above and beyond texting to follow up with me multiple times after my first treatment. After going to a different place to have a laser done and having a bad experience this has been quite the opposite and very refreshing. The office smells good, and everyone I have encountered that works there has been friendly and welcoming. I also love that their prices are listed transparently on their website and in the facility. Go to Hela and ask for Jaclyn! read more

I came to Hela thanks to a generous gift from a parent of a student in my classroom. I had to postpone my appointment due to the pandemic, and the office was more than accommodating. I was a little hesitant to begin treatments with Dr. Drysdale because I had an existing relationship with an aesthetician from another business. After one BBL treatment I was convinced. I had spent hundreds of dollars and months of time on acid peels, etc. to remove broken blood vessels and age spots - to no avail. Dr. Drysdale swept them away after one BBL session. I am an enthusiastic convert. read more

I have super sensitive skin and have always been nervous about getting facials until I met Sophia! I have been getting facials with her every month leading up to my wedding and my skin has never looked better. Sophia is the only facialist I trust, especially with my sensitive skin, so I HIGHLY recommend her! read more

It was hard for me to get an appointment here, so I was initially a little skeptical, especially after my first appointment got cancelled. However, it was well worth the wait. When you get there, they see you right away, and I adore my aesthetician. They are committed to making you feel wonderful in your skin and helping you look your best, whatever that means for you. Thus far, I've had microneedling and a facial and have several more things scheduled. There's no pressure to buy stuff, but they always give good samples and I've liked everything I've tried so far enough that I've gone back to buy it. read more

I have really dark and thick brown hair. I tried laser hair removal on my underarms at Hela and after the first session noticed at extreme difference. Usually even when I shave, my underarm area still looks dark and I usually have to shave everyday. After one session, my hair has dramatically decreased. I can go 3-4 days without shaving and my underarms are not as dark as before. My mom was even shocked. Would highly recommend. The procedure itself took less than five minutes for her to do both underarms. It did feel like a pinching sensation but nothing unbearable. Can't wait to go back and get other areas done and continue with treatment under my arms! read more

Hela Medical Spa - Freshly shaven before first treatment - Skin Care Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I have now gotten two facials here with Anna. She is professional and caring. She will tell you as much as you want to know during the facial or let you relax. My first session she recommended me a cleanser (which I bought and have enjoyed) and my second visit she didn't push any products on me. I appreciate not being pressured to buy products following a facial. I also love the short massage that is part of the standard facial! I can't speak to the other services here but I have had a great experience with facials from Anna thus far. Lastly I appreciate the hours at Hela which allow me to visit outside of my 9-5 work day hours. read more

BEST FACIALS + SKIN TREATMENTS, HANDS DOWN. ASK FOR BONNIE!! I've been going to Hela for seven years. I see Bonnie and she is the best esthetician I have ever encountered (and I lived in NYC for a decade and went to all the 'best' spas and dermatologists). When I first moved to DC i started seeing one of the 'star' dermatologists and wasn't happy with the facials I was getting and went to see Bonnie on the recommendation of a friend. I was having terrible cystic acne and within a few months of seeing Bonnie it was completely gone!! She did a few Vitalize peels and I've never had an outbreak again. I try to see her monthly for the deep cleansing facial with a glycolic peel and it keeps my skin blemish free and glowing. She also does a great job with eyebrows. Bonnie tests everything on herself and is very conservative in applying new treatments. You never have to worry about getting burned or harmed by anything she uses on you. She recently introduced me to micro-needling and it's radically changed my skin. She is always up on what the latest trends are and what is safest and gives the best results. She will tell you 'no' if you ask for something you don't need. Bonnie is also just a great person and fun to spend time with. I always joke that if she ever moves, I'll have to follow her. She is just that good!!! read more

After relocating to D.C. from the Miami area, I was worried I wouldn't be able to find a spa that would not only provide impeccable service and results but that I would ultimately enjoy going to. When I discovered Hēla Spa, I was overjoyed! They not only met all my needs, but have provided a consistent and pleasant customer experience. I highly recommend Dr. Drysdale. He is kind, professional and listens while providing his expert opinion on what may work best for you. Next time you're in the D.C. area, visit Hēla Spa, I promise you won't be disappointed! read more

Hands down the absolute best for injectables and IPL! Dr. D and his staff are meticulous, incredibly knowledgeable, and so welcoming and friendly to boot. Zero judgment, fantastic communication, easy scheduling via text and awesome M street location too. I became a fast fan and will gladly travel from Loudoun to Georgetown for all my tox, filler and IPL needs! read more

I had a wonderful experience with Hela Medical Spa. When I entered, they clearly had covid precautions in check and I felt very safe. The woman at the front desk was kind and welcoming! I had a facial with Kaitlyn D. which was relaxing and so informative. She listened to all my concerns and suggested a plan to reach my goals. 10/10!!!!! read more

I called specifically for Baby/Mini/Micro Botox. I made an appointment and even I went to my appointment, I was told they don't do it. So frustrating. I spend $22 on parking for NOTHING!!! They need to train their receptionists on their ACTIAL OFFERINGS. read more

Had a wonderful facial. Lots of steps , layers, and various unique tools used. My technician was very friendly and took time to explain each step. I loved the warm cloths and ice globes. Would highly recommend for a special treat. read more