What patients ask before their first visit.

Yes. Kintsu has deep expertise in Fitzpatrick types IV–VI — melanin-rich skin tones historically underserved in aesthetic medicine. Our protocols, device settings, and treatment sequences are physician-designed with this in mind and are safe for every skin tone. The Skin of Color Society is the leading professional organization dedicated to this exact gap in care — and it is the reason Kintsu exists. We welcome all patients and bring that same clinical precision to every skin tone we treat.

Yes. Dr. Nawal, MD is our Medical Director, and Kintsu's clinical protocols are physician-designed. This is different from practices where a physician name is on a license but not in the building. The AAD's guidance on cosmetic treatment safety emphasizes why in-depth physician oversight is essential — and that is exactly how Kintsu operates. Meet our providers

Your first visit begins with a complimentary consultation where we review your skin history, previous treatments, and goals. Our medical team is involved in every patient's treatment plan. We will walk you through our recommendations, explain why we chose them, and make sure you are completely comfortable before any treatment begins.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a real and well-documented risk in melanin-rich skin, and it is the main reason Kintsu has deep expertise in this area. Every protocol is calibrated to minimize pigment disruption. Device settings and post-care are adjusted specifically for your Fitzpatrick type, making our treatments safe for every skin tone. A 2024 systematic review in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery confirms that PIH is among the most common concerns in melanin-rich skin — and that proper provider expertise is essential to preventing it.

Yes. A complimentary consultation is included with every first visit. Our hand-picked provider team will see you — you will leave knowing exactly what we recommend and why. The AAD recommends that patients always have a thorough consultation before any cosmetic procedure, and we agree completely.

When performed with the right device and properly calibrated protocols, yes. RF microneedling's insulated needles protect the surface epidermis while delivering energy deeper into the dermis. This is critical for reducing PIH risk in melanin-rich skin. We use the Cutera Secret DUO with settings specifically calibrated for Fitzpatrick types IV–VI. A 35-article systematic review concluded that RF microneedling has a low risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation in melanin-rich skin and is safe for every skin tone when performed correctly.

Keloid-prone skin requires extra caution. During your consultation, your provider will review your scarring history to determine whether microneedling is appropriate or whether an alternative — like a chemical peel or HydraFacial — is a better fit. The NIH's StatPearls reference on microneedling lists extreme keloidal tendencies as a contraindication, which is why individualized assessment matters. When microneedling is appropriate, conservative needle depths and physician oversight are essential.

Standard microneedling creates micro-injuries that stimulate collagen production through wound healing. RF microneedling adds controlled radiofrequency heat delivered through insulated needles into deeper skin layers — triggering more significant collagen remodeling and skin tightening while protecting the epidermis at the surface. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery has a helpful overview of how RF energy stimulates new collagen production.

HydraFacial is a multi-step hydradermabrasion treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and infuses the skin with antioxidant serums. It has zero downtime, is well-tolerated across all skin types, and can be done monthly. A multicenter clinical study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology showed significant skin improvement with 100% patient satisfaction and no severe adverse effects reported.

Neurotoxins like Botox typically last 3 to 5 months depending on the treatment area, dose, and individual factors like activity level. Some patients see results lasting up to 6 months, particularly with repeated treatments over time. According to a clinical review published in PubMed, duration ranges from 3 to 5 months in women and 4 to 6 months in men across multiple trials.

It depends on the treatment and your specific concern. HydraFacials show immediate improvement after one session. RF microneedling typically requires 3 to 4 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart for optimal collagen remodeling — and a comprehensive review notes that RF-induced neocollagenesis continues improving even 6 months after treatment. Chemical peels may need a series of 3 to 6 treatments. During your consultation, we will map out a realistic timeline so you know exactly what to expect.

Some combinations work well together — for example, a HydraFacial followed by LED light therapy, or dermaplaning before a chemical peel. Others can increase PIH risk in melanin-rich skin if they both trigger inflammation. Your provider will design a sequenced treatment plan to maximize results while protecting your skin's healing response. A 2023 review in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology outlines the clinical considerations for combining procedures in melanin-rich skin and ensuring safety for every skin tone.

HydraFacials and LED therapy have zero downtime — you can return to your day immediately. Microneedling typically involves 24 to 48 hours of redness, similar to a mild sunburn. RF microneedling may involve 2 to 3 days of redness and mild swelling. Chemical peels vary from no visible peeling (lighter peels) to 5 to 7 days of flaking (deeper peels). We will explain exactly what to expect for your specific treatment before you begin.

The Fitzpatrick scale (I–VI) is the clinical standard for classifying skin phototypes based on melanin content and sun sensitivity. It was developed in 1975 by Harvard dermatologist Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick. Providers now use it as the primary tool to calibrate laser, RF, and chemical peel settings safely. At Kintsu, we have deep expertise in types IV–VI, while ensuring our treatments are safe for every skin tone. The same care applies to every skin tone; lighter skin has its own risks, like over-treatment and redness, and we plan for those too. You can read more in the NIH's StatPearls reference on Fitzpatrick classification.

Yes. Our physician-led weight management program includes GLP-1 therapies (Semaglutide and Tirzepatide), all under physician oversight. GLP-1 receptor agonists are among the most clinically validated weight loss treatments in obesity medicine history, with average weight reductions of 15 to 17 percent in major trials. A comprehensive clinical review covers the FDA approval, trial data, and efficacy of semaglutide for weight management.

GLP-1 medications are generally prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia. Every patient is evaluated individually during a medical consultation. The FDA-approved eligibility thresholds are confirmed by clinical guidelines synthesized in Diabetes Spectrum.

Yes — and the connection goes deeper than aesthetics. Hormonal changes, inflammation, and metabolic shifts that come with weight loss show up on your skin. At Kintsu, we look at both together. Pairing GLP-1 therapy with skin treatments allows us to address results from both the inside and outside simultaneously. A 2025 review in PubMed covers how GLP-1-based therapies extend beyond weight loss into broader metabolic and systemic health.

Come with a clean face if possible, bring a list of current skincare products, and note any past treatments. If you use prescription skincare like tretinoin or hydroquinone, let us know in advance — some products need to be paused before certain treatments. The NIH's StatPearls reference on microneedling notes that photoprotection and avoidance of chemical irritants should be followed prior to treatment. Our office is at 9110 Railroad Dr, Suite 320A in Manassas Park — free parking is available on site.

Aesthetic treatments are typically not covered by insurance. We accept all major credit cards and offer financing options to help make your treatment plan accessible. During your consultation, we will discuss pricing upfront so there are no surprises. For our weight management program, coverage may vary — we can help you understand your options.

Kintsu Medical Aesthetics serves Manassas, VA and surrounding communities. Our clinic is located at 9110 Railroad Dr Suite 320A, Manassas Park, VA 20111 — minutes from downtown Manassas. We see patients throughout Northern Virginia and Prince William County, including Manassas, Manassas Park, Woodbridge, Bristow, Gainesville, Haymarket, Dale City, and surrounding communities. Free parking is available on site.

That is exactly what your consultation is for. Skin concerns rarely have a one-size-fits-all answer — what works depends on your skin type, tone, history, and goals. We will assess your skin in person, discuss realistic outcomes, and build a plan that makes sense for you. No upselling, no guessing.

It depends on the treatment. HydraFacials can be done monthly. Microneedling and RF treatments are typically spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Neurotoxins like Botox last 3 to 5 months. During your consultation, we will map out a treatment timeline tailored to your goals and skin's recovery cycle.