above: OVME VIP members can choose a monthly facial or chemical peel.
Photographs: Venera Alexandrova
Instead of associating facials with birthday gifts and special occasions, OVME medical aesthetics has a novel approach. The studio, which opened February 2023 in Darien Commons, invites guests to prioritize self-care—and their skin-care routines—with a VIP membership plan and regular visits.
OVME (pronounced “of me”) specializes in skin treatments, injectables and wellness, delivering customized plans for every client, and the concept is gaining popularity.
According to Chief Marketing Officer Ryan Bennett, customers appreciate OVME’s approach to “the art of skin science” and the patient-focused concept. People drawn to the studio and the rewards program typically “incorporate routine skin maintenance into their daily life.”
By signing up for membership ($99 per month), VIPs receive priority appointments and can choose from a monthly facial or chemical peel. Other benefits include a weekly B-12 shot, as well as 15% off services and products. Membership starts as a three-month commitment and then goes month-to-month from there.
Beyond the membership program, OVME offers a variety of additional skin treatments ranging from signature facials and dermaplaning to microneedling and laser resurfacing. One of the most popular is the hydrafacial—a “non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts and hydrates the skin using a specialized device.” The hydrafacial, which works on all skin types, is even more in demand when the weather is cold and dry.
In addition to facials and cosmetic injections, OVME offers wellness treatments such as IV Hydration, which helps increase energy, provide nutrients, improve hydration and enable the body to recover more quickly.
Founder and CEO Dr. Mark McKenna launched the concept in Atlanta in 2018 when he saw “an opportunity to bring a more patient-centric approach to medical aesthetics,” says Bennett. Growing up in a family of physicians, McKenna’s “call to care ran deep because his childhood heroes wore white lab coats.”
While OVME has nearly 30 locations nationwide, Darien is the first in Connecticut. The professionals on staff receive training by Dr. McKenna, who also serves as chief medical officer.
OVME caters to more than just members. Guests can come in for a complimentary skin consultation using state-of-the-art technology. A VISIA scan helps determine how much someone’s skin has aged, allowing for a more targeted skin care plan.
“We are always refining the art of skin science to focus on improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, unclogged pores, and increased hydration, improved skin elasticity, reduced hyperpigmentation, anti-aging and an overall healthier complexion,” says Bennett.
Visit ovme.com to set up a consultation and to “find your glow.”