Botox and Fillers

It’s a daunting world, injectable beauty procedures, full of questions like 'where do I go?' and 'what will I look like?'.

It’s not surprising that people are firmly for, or against. I admire people embracing the ageing process who haven’t succumbed to the pressures of the stylised, magazine-led glossy image we’re supposed to aspire to. But on the other hand I can also understand why people do have work done, and done in the right hands by a skilled practitioner it can look natural and can be very safe. So, with that in mind I’ve put together some information to consider before booking an appointment for those interested or unsure.

The first thing to check is whether the person you're thinking of seeing is a member of The British College of Aesthetic Medicine, The British Association of Cosmetic Nurses or The British Dental Association. I wouldn’t personally (or recommend that you) go to a beautician that’s done a 1 day course! Yes, this is possible people! Get recommendations from friends or family members and see which one looks the most natural. Don’t be drawn in by fancy marketing or special offers. This is a serious business and any decent nurse/doctor/dentist will pride themselves on providing the best treatment at a professional price, no cost cutting. The initial appointment should be a free of charge consultation with no obligation. You should also ask about what type/brand of product they use? Also question whether it’s the best for you. Like most things, there’s a difference in quality for each product. The cheaper the product the less likely it’s going to last and/or can have varying levels of safeness. This can be a reason why prices vary so much. Also look at reviews of the clinic and/or individual online beforehand.

Does the room look clean? Do they look clean? If not run for the hills! A dirty environment is not safe or an acceptable one. You should never feel pressured into having anything done. Have they explained all the risks involved? The treatments are very safe in the right hands but go with your gut if you're not sure. It’s also important to feel comfortable with the person that’s doing the treatment; if you don’t, book to see someone else and shop around until you find the right person for you. Ask yourself, can you afford to keep the maintenance up (these things aren't a one shot deal!)? The doctor/nurse/dentist should be clear about costs and treatment frequency. Ask to see before & after photos of previous clients, do they look natural? I’ve seen injectables done so well it’s not obvious, even with my experienced eye, but I’ve also seen bad results, tight skin and cat like eyes with eyebrows lifted like the McDonalds arches! Too much is never a good look!

If you do decide to go ahead you should be given plenty of aftercare advice and further contact details in case you need any further consultations or advice. They should also ask to see you in a few weeks to review how the treatment has taken.

I’m sure many people will disagree with me but I personally feel that you should only go to someone who’s working in the field of injectables full-time. There are lots of people providing these services on top of their existing full-time job or doing it part time and they will be trained, but it’s not a one size fits all service. There’s a skill in the technique that I feel is best performed by a professional that’s doing it day in day out, is an expert in their field. I've been surprised at the difference in effects the same product can look like being injected by different people, the worst having been done by a doctor doing it for additional income. I cannot stress enough, if you do go for it then do your research !

I hope that’s given you an insight in what to ask and what to consider. I’ve been working alongside an aesthetic (AKA cosmetic) nurse for over 12 years so if you’ve got any questions, please ask away & I’ll ask the expert.

I've got plenty more posts in the pipeline but if you’ve got a particular topic on skincare or makeup you’d like me to cover, please let me know.

Next up I'll be talking about eye shadow crayons.

Thanks for reading! X