Can an RN open a medical spa?

Here's a question I received asking if RN's can open medical spas in California.:

"I would like to initially thank you for this informative website you have created; it has helped answer many of my questions.  However, there is one point that remains a little confusing to me, and I was hoping you might be able to clarify it.  I recently went to a famous med spa in Sherman Oaks, California and asked the receptionist who it was that was administering the botox, fillers, laser, etc.  She stated that "excellent RN's"  In addition, they stated that there is an MD within the spa.  

After reading your website, it is evident that an MD supervisor is necessary within a med spa.  

My question to you is can an RN open a med spa business under the supervision of an MD in the state of California?  If so, where would you recommend we begin with the process.  It seems like your site does not approve of consultants of franchises, so what would you recommend for beginners?  Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, C.S."

Here's the short answer: No. 

A medical spa is a medical practice and operates under the same rules. So, RN's are prohibited from practicing medicine by themselves. Your question seems to ask if you as an RN could 'own' the medspa and employ a physician to 'oversee' you. Again the answer is no. Read the medspa legal forums on this site and the medspa legal category.

RN's are often used by physicians as mid-level providers and my guess is that was what was going on at the clinic you went to. But the rules and scope of practice are exactly the same as any other clinic. 

You may certainly be involved and there are ways that 'corporate entities' can align, but you should contact both the state, and a lawyer to make sure you're not violating any state regulations or licensing.

If anyone has other input you're welcome to add it.