Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics (HVME) is a leading medical spa dedicated to advanced skincare and non-surgical esthetic treatments. With over 30 medical devices and an extensive selection of injectables, they treat conditions such as pigmentation, uneven skin texture, and skin laxity for both the face and body. Their team of highly trained practitioners, many with experience training for industry pioneers like Allergan, Merz, and Galderma, deliver exceptional patient care. Conveniently located in Marin and San Francisco, HVME is committed to offering personalized, effective solutions that help you look and feel your best.
Here’s a Q&A with HVME’s Linda Behla, Founder and Director of Nursing:
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m an East Coast native who has embraced the beauty of the Bay Area. After earning my nursing degree from Northeastern University, I worked as a traveling nurse across the US. Over 30 years ago, I took a position as a UCSF Cardiovascular Pediatrics Nurse and made the San Francisco Bay area my home. It was in 2005 that I began to pursue my passion in medical esthetics, working for a Stanford Plastic Surgeon in one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious medical spas. I’m a proud mom of two boys — one at Redwood High and the other at The University of Oregon. Thanks to them, I’m officially a Giants fan!!
In my free time, I enjoy biking, skiing, and sailing. I regularly return to visit family and have made several trips to Germany to see relatives from my parents’ hometowns.
2. What motivates you to excel at what you do?
I find joy in seeing my patients feel good about themselves. Medical esthetics is a blend of artistry and science, and my passion for art and beauty drives me to help individuals express and enhance their best selves. At HVME, each of our three locations is thoughtfully designed with the same artistic passion and attention to detail, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere. My goal is to provide each patient with an exceptional experience and outstanding results.
3. Describe your dream client/customer.
My dream client is someone who shares a vision of enhancing their natural features, appreciating the beauty journey as a long-term commitment rather than seeking quick fixes. They have realistic goals that align with my expertise and are open to collaborating with me. Building a strong and trusting relationship is essential as we work together to achieve their desired results while prioritizing the client’s overall well-being.
4. Do you have any new favorite products or treatments at HVME?
Two of my favorite products include Hydrinity Accelerated Skin Science and Plated Skin Science because they represent the forefront of innovation in skincare. Hydrinity’s advanced hydration technology delivers unparalleled skin renewal and repair, while Plated’s regenerative growth factor science harnesses the body’s natural healing capabilities to achieve remarkable results.
One of our most sought-after treatments is the Fotona Dynamis Pro, a laser that combines the latest technology with exceptional versatility to deliver safe, effective, and comfortable treatments. Its advanced laser systems enable precise, non-invasive procedures that address a wide range of concerns, from skin rejuvenation and tightening to addressing medical concerns like snoring and acne.
5. What are you most excited about now and in the future for your industry?
One of the most exciting innovations in medical esthetics is using biostimulators like exosomes, PDRN, and peptides for skin rejuvenation. These powerful agents are often paired with light-based therapies, microneedling, and plasma treatments to enhance their absorption into the skin. However, the ongoing challenge lies in ensuring these bio-rejuvenators effectively penetrate the skin while remaining FDA-compliant.
In many countries, advancements in esthetic medicine have shown remarkable results when PDRN is injected directly into the skin. This approach has incredible benefits, including collagen stimulation, improved skin texture, and noticeable brightening. It’s an inspiring glimpse into the potential of these treatments to revolutionize skincare.