After spending 28 years practicing family medicine, internal medicine and endocrinology, Lauren Olson decided to switch to a career path that would allow her to combine her passions for both science and art. 

In 2005, Olson opened Radiance Advanced Skin & Body Care, a Woodlands-based full-service medical spa that also offers day spa services. The aesthetic facility offers a variety of services from CoolSculpting and facial plastic surgery to massages and laser hair removal. 

“I was very interested in combining the art and science of beauty and medicine, but I also felt like what we call ‘health care’ is really more disease management,” Olson said. “I thought there needed to be more focus on helping people live a healthy life, and—rather than putting bandages on symptoms—getting to the root of the problem.”

Among its many services, Olson said the spa specializes in result-driven skin care and also has a full-service hair salon and nail salon specializing in natural nail care and products.

The spa is staffed by 20 technicians, aestheticians, massage therapists and hair stylists. It also boasts a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, a board-certified gynecologist and a licensed cosmetic nurse injector on staff.

With ongoing training and an emphasis on helping patients make educated decisions, Olson said one of the things that sets the spa apart from others in the area is the level of professionalism and knowledge her entire staff possesses.

“We really want to focus on a treatment plan,” spa Director Wendy Gentile said. “We’re going to take the time to sit down with you and talk to you about your aesthetic goals and see what we can do to reach those.”

Most of the services at the spa can be enjoyed by both men and women, Olson said. Additionally, Radiance Advanced Skin & Body Care can also host private events and parties, and offers gift certificates.

Olson said that in addition to guests’ satisfaction, another one of her priorities is giving back to the community. Olson and her staff work with Memorial Hermann Health System’s In the Pink of Health campaign, the Montgomery County Women’s Center and donates towels and robes to the Montgomery County Animal Shelter.

Olson said although the spa could use more space, she has no plans to open a second location in the future for fear of spreading herself too thin and not being able to give clients personalized treatment.

“I think when people are having their face or body worked on, there is a huge trust factor there,” she said. “We’ve had people come across the state and even the country just to see us. So it’s all about earning our guests’ trusts with our skills and our heart.”

Radiance Advanced Skin & Body Care 6777 Woodlands Parkway, The Woodlands 281-367-4700 www.woodlandsradiancespa.com Hours: Mon, Wed. and Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tue. and Thu. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Sundays