Running ads in healthcare isn’t as simple as writing an offer and clicking “publish.” Google places strict restrictions on medical and pharmaceutical advertising and med spas fall under those same rules. If your practice offers Botox, dermal fillers, or other regulated treatments, you’ll need to be compliant before your ads go live.
Why Google Regulates Healthcare Advertising
Google’s goal is to protect users from misleading claims and unsafe promotions. Because medical services carry health risks, advertisers must meet stricter standards than in other industries. Violating these rules can lead to ad disapprovals, wasted spend, or even account suspensions.
What’s Restricted for Med Spas and Healthcare Providers
According to Google Ads Healthcare and medicines policy:
- Prescription drugs (e.g., Botox, fillers) require certification.
- Before-and-after images are not allowed in ads.
- Misleading guarantees like “results in 24 hours” violate Google’s misrepresentation policy.
- Medical device claims must be backed by licensing and approval.
- Regional differences apply: what’s allowed in the U.S. may not be in other countries.
Certification Requirements
If you’re advertising medical services, you’ll likely need certification:
- Google Ads Healthcare Certification – Apply through Google to prove your business is a licensed provider. Apply here.
- LegitScript Certification – Required for many prescription drug and telemedicine ads, and strongly recommended for med spas running Botox ads. Learn more.
Without these certifications, ads for injectables and other prescription-based treatments are unlikely to run.
Special Considerations for Botox and Injectables
- Using “Botox” or other prescription brand names in ads almost always requires LegitScript certification.
- If you use generic phrasing like “wrinkle relaxers,” ads may run, but this approach is risky, disapprovals are common.
- The safest path for med spas is to secure LegitScript certification upfront to ensure ad approval and consistency.
Why Work With a Certified Agency
Navigating these requirements can be confusing and time-consuming. As an agency, we handle the entire certification and compliance process so our clients don’t have to. From application support to ongoing ad monitoring, we make sure your campaigns stay live and compliant.