The past year has been bewildering, frightening and lonely. Coronavirus has changed things for all of us; with some losing loved ones, and others losing their jobs and livelihoods. All of us have been affected by the enforced lockdowns and isolation. We’ve also had to navigate a virtual world with meetings, quizzes, facials and even cooking over video call.
Seeing ourselves on screen has led to many wondering if now is the time to think about refreshing their look. I know I’ll be looking forward to my first haircut in what seems like forever! Others have started researching other types of treatments, including things like anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, skin peels and more. The so-called “zoom face” has meant that we can see ourselves the way others see us, and it can be startling!
However, I would caution against jumping into aesthetic treatments without first doing your research. There is very little regulation within the aesthetics industry in the UK, and it would be wise to consider your options.
Consultation
The first step in any decision-making process about which treatments (if any) you need, should be a detailed consultation with the practitioner. This can be a face to face or virtual event, but it should cover all the aspects of your concern. During the consultation, the practitioner should ask you questions about what your concerns are. They should also ask what your desired results would be. In some cases, aesthetic treatments may not be suitable or may not be able to provide you with the results you want. Your practitioner should be honest and open about the limitations of their practice and inform you if you are better off with a different pathway, for example surgery. The consultation should result in a treatment plan, which may include not only treatments but also recommendations for skincare to use at home, and supplements to improve your health. Try not to focus on celebrity images when considering treatment: these images are often filtered or amended before they are posted online and can offer an unrealistic and often unachievable ideal.
Qualifications
Although anyone can do a 1 day or even a half day course and then start offering injectable treatments to the public, you should always check the full extent of a practitioner’s qualifications before you allow them anywhere near your face! Ask to see training certificates, and check if their trainer was experienced and qualified enough to offer this course to others. Ask to see their insurance documents, so you know that you will be protected in case things don’t go to plan.
Experience
The more you do something, the more experienced you become and the better you get at it. Ask your practitioner how long they have been injecting and ask to see evidence of their work: either before and after images or verified reviews. Ensure that they provide you with contact details in case of emergency, so you are not stranded if anything unexpected happens.
Risk Management
Ask the practitioner what the risks and side effects of your treatment are, and how they would mitigate or avoid these. Every practitioner should have an evidence-based pathway of care to manage emergencies and side effects. Ask how they would access prescription medicines with which to treat you in case of an emergency and ask how quickly they could respond if this were to happen. Ask them about their safety protocols, or whether they have access to more experienced practitioners for support and advice.
Once you’ve done your research and booked your consultation, remember that you are in control, and don’t ever feel pressured into having a treatment you are unsure about. Remember that each person is individual, and you just need to find your own kind of beautiful! If you’d like to book a consultation with me at TD Aesthetics, just use the link below to book via Glowday.