SARAH JEPSON
MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Medical Director & Founder, The Refinery Medical Aesthetics
About Sarah
Sarah Jepson brings over two decades of hands-on medical experience to the world of aesthetics. As the founder and medical director of The Refinery Medical Aesthetics, she’s known for merging clinical precision with a deeply personalized approach to beauty and skincare.
Mission & Core Values
Sarah’s mission is to bring the most advanced, evidence-based aesthetic treatments to the Topeka area and raise the bar for what clients can expect from a med spa.
Her core values are safety, integrity, innovation, and real results. She’s committed to delivering treatments that are as effective as they are empowering, always prioritizing the health and individuality of each client.
Medical Background
Sarah’s clinical foundation is rock-solid. Before entering the field of aesthetics, she spent 11 years working in Emergency Medicine at Level 1 and 2 trauma centers, followed by 13 years in Pediatric Primary Care.
This wide-ranging experience gives her a deep understanding of anatomy, precision procedures, and compassionate care, skills she now channels into every aesthetic treatment.
Education & Credentials
- MSN – University of Kansas Medical Center, 2007
- BSN – Baker University, 2002
- Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (ANCC)
- Licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
- Medical Aesthetics Practice since 2022
Why Aesthetics
“I’ve always been drawn to dermatology and procedures that require precision and artistry. Aesthetics lets me combine my medical expertise with a love of planning and detail, it’s the perfect intersection of science and beauty. I’d love to help you create a plan that supports your skincare goals and leaves you feeling empowered in your own skin.”
MELISSA DEISTER
DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Family Nurse Practitioner, The Refinery Medical Aesthetics
About Melissa
Melissa Deister brings a whole-person approach to her work in medical aesthetics and functional medicine. With a background in acute care nursing and a passion for root-cause healing, she’s known for creating thoughtful, personalized treatment plans that blend internal wellness with external results.
Mission & Core Values
“Help someone straighten their crown without needing to mention to the world it was ever crooked”.
Melissa’s professional journey in healthcare is deeply personal, driven by a motto she holds dear and a purpose that aligns with her passion.
This alignment is largely inspired by the quiet strength and influence of her grandmother, who was instrumental in shaping Melissa’s character and continues to inspire her path in the healthcare field.
Medical Background
Melissa’s healthcare journey began in high school as a Certified Nursing Assistant, laying the foundation for her hands-on, patient-centered approach. She spent eight years working in acute care at a Level-2 Trauma hospital, where she specialized in post-surgical recovery and complex care management.
Now, she combines that clinical depth with a growing focus on functional medicine and aesthetics, using both to help patients feel and look their best.
Education & Credentials
- DNP – University of Kansas Medical Center, 2024
- BSN – Emporia State University, 2016
- Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (ANCC)
- Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, Functional Medicine Academy, 2025
- Licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
- Medical Aesthetics and Functional Medicine Practice since 2024
Why Aesthetics and Functional Medicine
“I love helping people feel confident in their skin, but I also believe real beauty starts with internal balance. Functional medicine gives me the tools to treat fatigue, hormone issues, weight resistance, and aging from the inside out. Aesthetics lets me help patients express that renewed vitality on the outside too. The combination is powerful.”
CLAIRE MCDOUGAL
LE
Licensed Esthetician
About Claire
Claire McDougal is a Licensed Esthetician with a passion for creating radiant, healthy skin while ensuring every treatment feels like a true escape. Trained at the prestigious Bellus Academy in Manhattan, Kansas, she brings two years of hands-on experience from both medical and day spa environments. Her clients know her for result driven facials that balance effectiveness with relaxation, leaving skin glowing and spirits lifted.
Mission & Core Values
“My goal is simple: to help you feel confident, cared for, and glowing inside and out.”
Professional Background
Claire’s career began with a strong foundation in clinical esthetics where she gained experience in treatments focused on correcting skin concerns and supporting overall skin health. She then expanded into the spa setting where she learned the art of pairing results with indulgence.
This unique blend of expertise allows her to customize each service, whether targeting acne, brightening dullness, or simply providing a restorative pause from daily stress.
Education & Credentials
- Licensed Esthetician, Bellus Academy, Manhattan KS
- Certified in Advanced Facial Techniques
- Specialized Training in Medical and Spa Skin Treatments
- Two Years of Professional Practice in Esthetics
Why Esthetics
“For me, esthetics is about so much more than skin care. It is about helping people relax, reconnect with themselves, and walk out feeling confident. Healthy, glowing skin is the bonus.”
Personal Touch
Outside the treatment room, Claire enjoys cozy time with her two cats, experimenting with new recipes, and expressing her creativity through crafts. She brings the same warmth and care she shows in her personal life to every client interaction, ensuring each visit is both effective and uplifting.
MADISON
Administrative Coordinator
About Madison
Madison brings a strong background in patient coordination and administrative excellence to The Refinery Aesthetics & Wellness. With several years of experience supporting a busy dental and oral surgery practice, she has developed a sharp eye for detail, efficiency, and compassionate care. These qualities make her an integral part of our team and the welcoming face behind the front desk.
Mission & Core Values
Madison’s mission is to ensure every client feels seen, supported, and confident from the moment they walk through the door. She believes that genuine kindness and clear communication set the foundation for an exceptional patient experience and takes pride in making every visit seamless from start to finish.
Professional Background
Before joining The Refinery, Madison spent several years working in fast-paced medical and dental environments where she honed her skills in patient relations, scheduling, and practice operations. She now brings that same professionalism and heart to the aesthetics field, helping clients feel cared for at every touchpoint.
Education & Credentials
Currently pursuing her Business Administration degree at Allen County Community College
Extensive experience in administrative support and patient care coordination
Why Aesthetics
“I’ve always loved helping people feel confident and cared for. Working in aesthetics allows me to be part of a team that changes lives and helps clients feel beautiful inside and out.”
Personal Touch
Outside of work, Madison enjoys spending time on the golf course with her fiancé, walking her two adorable poodles, and planning her upcoming winter wedding. Her warm personality and joyful energy shine through in everything she does, making her a true asset to both our team and our patients.
