Sam Schnapp, N.P., is the principal of Chateau Medispa, a boutique aesthetic spa and treatment center nestled in a quiet neighborhood in Ridgefield, Connecticut, where the only sound is the waterfall outside the spa window. Away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Chateau Medispa’s soothing setting is the perfect place for discreet, highly personalized rejuvenation.
Chateau Medispa is the area leader in medical aesthetic care, specializing in state-of-the-art, non-invasive aesthetic procedures designed for long-lasting results that rejuvenate the skin and body. Clients receive exceptional, personalized attention, using the most advanced techniques, ensuring that each treatment is customized based on each individual's skin type and personal preferences.
Chateau Medispa is for people who want to look younger, refreshed and rested without looking “done.” Clients report that their friends and family notice a visible difference in appearance but because the techniques Chateau uses are state-of-the-art and deftly applied, outcomes are natural and truly reflect the client's rejuvenation goals.
Why did you choose to go into medical aesthetics?
It’s inherently satisfying to see people look and feel better over time. Also, medical aesthetic clients tend to prioritize their health, are eager to learn, and make healthier choices. The field is rapidly evolving, with safer techniques, more alternatives, and better results.
Can you please share your background and training?
My first nursing jobs were inpatient including General Medicine, Surgical ICU, and physical rehabilitation. I switched to Community Health, aiming to keep people healthy and out of the hospital. I earned a Masters in Nursing to enable me to work more independently in-home care. Thereafter, I discovered an exciting chance to work with university students, a dynamic, bright but highly stressed population. The work is similar to medical aesthetics, as both involve client education, health promotion and disease prevention. In College Health I would coach the students in how they could make healthier choices through their college years. I moved to Connecticut from New York City and decided to change course and work in medical aesthetics, another dynamic, highly functioning population looking to actively improve their health.
What is an emerging challenge in your field?
There are numerous emerging technologies in Medical Aesthetics that enhance appearance without improving health. The challenge is to make people not only look healthier but to understand that beauty is primarily a product of a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any new medical aesthetic techniques/technology that you're excited about and would like to share information on?
I am most excited about the combination of microneedling with radiofrequency. This technology smooths and tightens skin, reduces wrinkles and scars and enhances skin texture, all with minimal down time and few side effects. The results are exciting, and my clientele is enthusiastic about this highly safe and effective renewal treatment.
Do you have a story you could share about a special patient?
Most clients have an idea of what they want to change or how to enhance their appearance. One particular client said to me, “I want you to decide what to do.” While the decision initially was entirely mine, I gave her a hand-held mirror and together we evaluated her facial appearance. Upon closer observation, she identified changes associated with aging that she wanted to correct. The mutually agreed upon plan delivered natural looking results, and the collaborative approach was rewarding for both of us.
Why do you like being an aesthetic nurse practitioner?
I love the continuity of care. It’s rewarding to see improvements in health and appearance over time.
What are your top requested services?
1.Neurotoxin such as Botox, the most commonly requested treatment, reduces facial wrinkles associated with expression.
2. Morpheus8 and Morpheus8 Body smooth facial and neck skin lines, tighten skin, and treat scars without the expense and risk of a face lift.
3. Lumecca IPL (intense pulse light) uses the power of light energy to brighten skin and treat sun spots, hyperpigmentation, freckles, and superficial veins.
4. EvolveX uses carefully controlled heat to reduce unwanted body fat in stubborn areas such as the abdomen, thighs or upper arms.
While neurotoxins are the most commonly requested treatment nationwide, my personal favorite is Morpheus8 and Morpheus8 Body. It's the perfect skin-tightening procedure for anyone, regardless of skin type. The needles are so tiny that they barely cause any surface skin damage. You might have some skin redness, kind of like a sunburn, but that's about it!