Welcome to the No 4 Clinic in Elgin, where we believe that healthy and radiant skin is within reach for everyone. Today, we're excited to introduce you to the revolutionary Hydrafacial treatment, a cutting-edge skincare procedure that promises to transform your skin and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. In this article, we'll delve into the top 10 questions about Hydrafacial, addressing everything you need to know about this remarkable treatment.

What is a Hydrafacial treatment, and how does it work?

The Hydrafacial treatment is a non-invasive, multi-step procedure designed to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate the skin. It combines the benefits of hydradermabrasion, chemical peels, and automated extractions to provide immediate and long-lasting results. Using a specialized device, the treatment works by delivering a blend of cleansing, moisturising, and nourishing serums to your skin, simultaneously removing impurities and dead skin cells.

What skin concerns can be addressed with a Hydrafacial?

Hydrafacial is a versatile treatment suitable for all skin types and addresses various skin concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, congested pores, acne-prone skin, uneven skin tone, and dryness. Whether you're seeking to combat signs of aging or simply rejuvenate your complexion, a Hydrafacial can be customized to meet your specific needs.

Is the Hydrafacial treatment painful?

Not at all! Hydrafacial is a painless and soothing treatment. Many individuals find it to be a relaxing experience, similar to a gentle massage for the face. You may experience a mild sensation during the extraction process, but overall, the procedure is well-tolerated and comfortable.

How long does a typical Hydrafacial treatment take?

One of the many advantages of Hydrafacial is its efficiency. The treatment typically takes around 30-45 minutes, making it an ideal option for those with busy schedules or anyone seeking a quick pick-me-up for their skin.

Are there any side effects or downtime associated with Hydrafacial?

Unlike some other more invasive treatments, Hydrafacial has minimal side effects and no downtime. You may experience temporary redness or a slight tingling sensation immediately after the procedure, but these effects typically subside within a few hours. You can immediately resume your daily activities and apply makeup if desired.

How soon will I see results, and how long do they last?

The beauty of Hydrafacial lies in its immediate and visible results. You'll notice a significant improvement in your skin's texture, tone, and overall radiance right after the first session. For optimal and long-lasting results, we recommend a series of treatments, as each session builds upon the last. With regular maintenance sessions, your skin's health and appearance can be sustained over time.

How often should I have a Hydrafacial treatment?

The frequency of Hydrafacial treatments depends on your individual skincare goals and the condition of your skin. For most individuals, monthly treatments are recommended to maintain optimal skin health and address specific concerns. However, our skilled professionals at No 4 Clinic will assess your skin during a consultation and tailor a treatment plan that suits your unique needs.

Can Hydrafacial be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely! Hydrafacial can be complemented with other skincare procedures to enhance your results. For instance, combining Hydrafacial with LED light therapy, micro-needling, or customized serums can further target specific concerns and maximize the benefits of the treatment.

Who is an ideal candidate for a Hydrafacial treatment?

Hydrafacial is suitable for almost everyone, regardless of age or skin type. Whether you have sensitive skin, oily skin, dry skin, or a combination of these, a Hydrafacial can be tailored to address your specific needs. It's a versatile treatment that can benefit individuals looking to improve their skin's overall health and appearance.

Why should I choose No 4 Clinic for my Hydrafacial treatment?

No 4 Clinic in Elgin is dedicated to providing exceptional skincare services with a focus on client satisfaction and safety. When you choose No 4 Clinic for your Hydrafacial treatment, you can expect:

Expertise:

Our highly skilled and experienced skincare professionals will assess your skin, listen to your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your desired results.

State-of-the-art technology:

We utilize the latest advancements in skincare technology, ensuring that you receive the most effective and innovative treatments available.

Customisation:

Each Hydrafacial treatment at No 4 Clinic is tailored to meet your specific skin concerns and goals. We understand that every individual is unique, and we take pride in providing customized solutions.

Relaxing environment:

Our clinic offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and enjoy a soothing experience during your Hydrafacial treatment.

Comprehensive skincare solutions:

In addition to Hydrafacial, we offer a wide range of skincare services and treatments to address various concerns. Our goal is to provide you with a holistic approach to skincare and help you achieve your desired results.

Conclusion:

If you're seeking a transformative skincare experience, the Hydrafacial treatment at No 4 Clinic in Elgin is the ideal choice. With its innovative technology, versatility, and immediate results, Hydrafacial can rejuvenate your skin, leaving you with a radiant and refreshed complexion. Don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our skilled professionals to discover how Hydrafacial can enhance your skincare routine and bring out the best in your skin. Say goodbye to dull and tired-looking skin and embrace a new level of confidence with the power of Hydrafacial. 

A Breakthrough in Body Contouring

In the pursuit of achieving a leaner and sculpted physique, many individuals often find themselves struggling to eliminate stubborn fat pockets that seem resistant to diet and exercise. Thankfully, advancements in medical technology have given rise to innovative treatments that offer effective and non-invasive solutions. At No4 Clinic in Elgin, we are thrilled to introduce the Emerald Laser, a revolutionary device designed to help our clients reduce fat and achieve their body goals. In this article, we will delve into the Emerald Laser technology, its benefits, and why it is an exceptional choice for non-surgical fat reduction.

Understanding the Emerald Laser:

The Emerald Laser is a cutting-edge, non-invasive procedure that employs low-level laser technology to target and reduce localized fat deposits. The treatment works by emitting specific wavelengths of laser energy, which safely penetrate the skin to target the underlying adipose tissue without causing any harm to the surrounding structures. This results in the release of stored fat from the cells, leading to a reduction in fat volume and an improvement in body contours.

How does the Emerald Laser work?

The Emerald Laser technology utilizes a process called photobiomodulation. When the laser energy is absorbed by the fat cells, it triggers a series of biological reactions. This stimulation enhances the metabolism of the fat cells, leading to the release of fatty acids, glycerol, and water. These substances are then naturally eliminated from the body through the lymphatic system, effectively reducing the volume of fat in the treated area.

Key Benefits of the Emerald Laser:

Non-invasive and Painless

Unlike traditional surgical procedures, the Emerald Laser offers a non-invasive and pain-free alternative for fat reduction. There are no incisions, anaesthesia, or downtime involved, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities immediately after the treatment. This makes it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles who cannot afford extended recovery periods.

Precision and Customisation

The Emerald Laser technology allows for precise targeting of specific areas, ensuring optimal results for each individual. Whether it's the abdomen, thighs, love handles, or arms, the treatment can be tailored to address the unique needs and desired outcome of the patient. The ability to customize the treatment plan ensures that patients receive personalized care and achieve the body contours they desire.

Safe and Effective

The Emerald Laser is a safe and FDA-approved treatment that has been proven to deliver consistent and impressive results. The procedure is performed by qualified professionals who have undergone specialized training to ensure the utmost safety and efficacy. The use of low-level laser energy ensures that the treatment is gentle on the skin and does not cause any damage to surrounding tissues.

Stimulates Collagen Production

In addition to fat reduction, the Emerald Laser also stimulates collagen production, promoting skin tightening and firming in the treated area. This can result in smoother, more toned skin and improved overall body contours. The dual benefits of fat reduction and skin tightening make the Emerald Laser an excellent choice for individuals seeking comprehensive body contouring solutions.

Long-lasting Results

With proper post-treatment care and a healthy lifestyle, the results achieved through the Emerald Laser can be long-lasting. While individual experiences may vary, many clients notice a visible reduction in fat volume within weeks of their treatment. Maintenance treatments can be recommended to sustain the results over time, ensuring continued satisfaction with the outcome.

Is the Emerald Laser Safe?

Safety is a paramount concern when considering any cosmetic procedure. Fortunately, the Emerald Laser has been extensively studied and proven to be a safe treatment for fat reduction. The low-level laser energy used in the procedure is non-ionizing, meaning it does not carry the risks associated with ionizing radiation. Furthermore, the Emerald Laser is an FDA-approved technology, which ensures that it has undergone rigorous testing and meets the highest safety standards.

The procedure is performed by skilled and qualified professionals who have undergone specialized training in using the Emerald Laser technology. This ensures that the treatment is administered with precision and care, minimizing any potential risks. Additionally, the non-invasive nature of the procedure eliminates the risks and complications often associated with surgical fat reduction methods, such as infections, scarring, or adverse reactions to anaesthesia.

Is the Emerald Laser Treatment Painful?

One of the significant advantages of the Emerald Laser treatment is its non-invasive and pain-free nature. Unlike surgical procedures, which may involve incisions and tissue manipulation, the Emerald Laser does not require any invasive techniques. Patients typically experience minimal discomfort during the treatment, often describing it as a warming or tingling sensation in the targeted area.

Most individuals find the Emerald Laser treatment to be quite comfortable, and there is no need for anaesthesia or pain medication. The procedure is quick and efficient, with each session lasting around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the treated area. After the treatment, patients can immediately resume their regular activities without any restrictions or downtime.

It's important to note that individual pain thresholds may vary, and some individuals may experience slight sensitivity during or after the treatment. However, any discomfort experienced is generally mild and temporary, resolving quickly. The vast majority of patients find the Emerald Laser treatment to be a well-tolerated and painless process, making it an attractive option for those seeking non-surgical fat reduction solutions.

Conclusion:

The Emerald Laser stands as an innovative and safe solution for individuals looking to reduce stubborn fat pockets and achieve their desired body contours. With its non-invasive nature and proven efficacy, the Emerald Laser provides a viable alternative to surgical procedures. The treatment is performed by qualified professionals, ensuring safety and precision throughout the process.

Furthermore, the Emerald Laser treatment is well-tolerated and generally pain-free. Patients can expect minimal discomfort, if any, and can immediately resume their daily activities without any downtime. As with any cosmetic treatment, it's important to consult with a qualified professional who can assess your individual needs, discuss potential risks, and guide you through the treatment process.

At No4 Clinic in Elgin, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest standard of care and the latest advancements in non-surgical body contouring. The Emerald Laser offers an exceptional opportunity to reduce fat, enhance body shape, and boost confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how the Emerald Laser can help you achieve your aesthetic goals safely and comfortably.

Ageing can be a difficult process, especially when it comes to your skin. The natural signs of ageing such as wrinkles, dullness and sagging can often cause us to feel uncomfortable in our own skin and less confident. But at my clinic, Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic in Elgin, we believe that it doesn't have to be this way - with the right knowledge and expertise, ageing can be a positive experience! 

Customised Treatment Plan 

Our team at Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic is dedicated to helping you manage your age gracefully through remarkable facial treatments like Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox), Fillers, Endymed Skin Tightening, Skin Peels and more - so you can look good and feel great! At our clinic, we understand that each person is unique and so are their skin care needs. Our experienced team will take the time to get to know you and your skin, before recommending a customised treatment plan that is tailored specifically towards your goals. 

Latest Technologies and Products

We only use the latest technologies and products in our treatments at Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic - so you can trust us to deliver results that are safe, effective and long-lasting. 

Why Skin Treatments Are Good For Your Skin

Skin treatments such as Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox), fillers, IPL (intense pulsed light), skin tightening and microneedling have become increasingly popular in recent years - and for good reason. These aesthetic treatments can have a positive impact on the appearance and health of your skin. 

Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox)

Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox) is an effective treatment for reducing or eliminating wrinkles, fine lines and crow’s feet. It works by paralyzing the muscles that cause facial expressions like smiling and frowning which can add to the development of wrinkles over time. This facial aesthetics treatment is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments in the aesthetic industry.

Fillers

Fillers are used to enhance the volume of certain areas on the face or body – such as the lips or cheeks – by replenishing lost fat due to ageing. This minimizes signs of ageing like wrinkles and sagging skin. This medical aesthetic treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done quickly, with minimal downtime.

IPL

IPL is a non-invasive laser treatment designed to improve skin tone and texture while also reducing redness, sun spots, scars and other blemishes. It works by targeting pigment cells in the surface layers of the skin with intense pulses of light which causes them to break down. This skin rejuvenation treatment is highly effective and requires no downtime.

Skin Tightening

Skin tightening treatments use radiofrequency waves delivered into the deeper layers of the skin in order to encourage collagen production which boosts the firmness and elasticity of ageing skin – leaving you with a more youthful look! This non-surgical treatment is highly popular among those who want to avoid surgical facelifts.

Microneedling

Microneedling is another effective skin treatment. It involves using tiny needles to puncture the surface of the skin, triggering a healing response from the body which results in increased collagen production. This helps smooth wrinkles and give skin a more even tone, resulting in a healthier, more youthful look. This beauty treatment is highly popular and requires minimal downtime.

Benefits of Skin Treatments

These aesthetic treatments can drastically improve not only your appearance but also self-confidence; when you look your best you feel your best. So if you’re looking for a way to refresh your look without resorting to surgery then these treatments could be just what you need!

High-Quality Customer Service

Our team at Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic is also dedicated to providing high-quality customer service - so you can feel comfortable knowing that you're in good hands. We want all of our clients to experience a sense of joy and satisfaction with the results of their treatments! So if you’re ready for a transformation, book an appointment with us at Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic today and let us help you look good and feel great. 

Conclusion

Ageing doesn't have to be a negative experience. With our team's expertise and the latest skin treatments at Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic in Elgin, you can age gracefully and feel confident in your own skin. Whether you're looking to reduce wrinkles, enhance volume, improve skin tone and texture or boost collagen production, we have a customized treatment plan for you. Book an appointment with us today and let us help you look good and feel great!

Everyone wants to look and feel youthful as they age, but the natural aging process can take a toll on our skin. Wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging can be difficult to prevent or reverse, even with a diligent skincare routine. Fortunately, there's a treatment that can help you achieve a more youthful appearance without surgery or downtime - micro-needling!

What is Micro-Needling?

Micro-needling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a device with tiny needles to create microscopic punctures or channels in the skin. These channels allow for better absorption of products such as serums and creams that can help boost collagen production, which is essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and support to our skin, and it naturally declines as we age. By stimulating collagen production, micro-needling can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and other signs of aging.

How Does Micro-Needling Work?

During a micro-needling treatment, a device with tiny needles is used to create microscopic punctures or channels in the skin. These punctures are so small that they are not visible to the naked eye, but they are enough to stimulate the body's natural healing process. As the skin heals, collagen production is increased, which can improve the texture and appearance of the skin. The micro-needles also create channels in the skin, which allows for better absorption of products such as serums and creams that can help boost collagen production.

What Makes the X Celaris Pro Twist Different?

The X Celaris Pro Twist is a revolutionary electrical micro-needling device that is changing the game when it comes to aesthetic micro-needling treatments. It features a patented spring seal for guaranteed safety and hygiene, a movable needle plate for precision treatment tailored to your skin surface, 50-150 insertions per second –making it faster than most means on the market– adjustable penetration depth from 0.25mm up to 2.5mm, and active needle retrieval technology. This is minimal invasiveness at its finest with optimum results in no time! It's one of the most efficient tools available for treating various skin conditions such as acne scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, sun damage, and more. Plus, it's safe and non-invasive, so there's no need for surgery or recovery time.

How Can Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic Help?

At Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic, we specialize in providing treatments using state-of-the-art technology such as the X Celaris Pro Twist device. With over 28 years' experience in aesthetic medicine, we offer personalized treatments tailored to each individual client's needs ensuring they get optimal results from their treatments. Our team of experienced practitioners can help you achieve beautiful, youthful skin with micro-needling and other advanced treatments. We understand that every client is unique, so we take the time to listen to your concerns and develop a customized treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

Benefits of Micro-Needling

Micro-needling has a number of benefits for the skin, including:

  1. Improving skin texture and tone
  2. Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  3. Diminishing the appearance of scars, including acne scars
  4. Minimizing pore size
  5. Boosting collagen production for firmer, more youthful-looking skin
  6. Improving the effectiveness of skincare products
  7. Non-invasive and safe with no downtime required
  8. Minimal discomfort during the procedure

Micro-needling is suitable for all skin types and can be used on various parts of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and hands. Results may vary depending on the individual and the severity of the skin condition being treated, but most clients see improvement in their skin's texture and appearance after just one treatment.

In conclusion, micro-needling with the X Celaris Pro Twist is a safe and effective way to achieve beautiful, youthful skin. It stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture and tone, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and minimizes the appearance of scars. At Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic, we specialize in providing personalized treatments using state-of-the-art technology like the X Celaris Pro Twist. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve beautiful, youthful skin with micro-needling and other advanced treatments.

How Emerald Laser and Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic Can Help With Stress-Induced Weight Gain

Stress can have a huge impact on your health, both mentally and physically. One of the most common physical effects of stress is weight gain. It’s not uncommon for people to experience a few extra pounds due to increased stress levels, and the resultant increase in cortisol levels circulating around the body. High cortisol levels cause untold damage to the organs of your body like the skin, heart and brain. This can result in skin conditions that are difficult to manage, heart disease and diseases of the brain like Alziemiers. Fortunately, there are ways to fight back against stress-induced weight gain. Let’s take a look at how Emerald Laser and Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic can help you in this endeavour.

Using Emerald Laser Technology to Combat Stress-Related Weight Gain

Emerald laser technology is one of the most effective tools for fighting stress-induced weight gain. This technology targets fat cells specifically, breaking them down so that they can be more easily metabolized by the body. The laser energy passes through the skin, targeting only fat cells and leaving other tissues unharmed. This process is completely non-invasive, making it an ideal choice for those looking to get rid of stubborn fat without undergoing surgery or other invasive treatments. Patients who undergo treatment with emerald laser technology typically experience significant results after just six sessions!

Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic Offers Comprehensive Care

At Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic, we understand that fighting stress-related weight gain isn't just about getting rid of excess fat—it's also about addressing underlying causes and providing comprehensive care. We offer a variety of services aimed at helping our patients deal with their stress in healthy ways while also providing medical advice and supervision to ensure they're on track with their health goals. Our team includes Su Jones, an experienced nutritionist who can provide individualized advice on diet and exercise, as well as a referral service to other health professionals who can offer valuable insight into dealing with gut health and difficult emotions in constructive ways.

Stress can have a major impact on our physical health, leading to problems like weight gain. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to address these issues head-on. At Nichola Maasdorp No4 Clinic, we understand that it takes more than just emerald laser technology to effectively combat stress-related weight gain—it takes comprehensive care from experienced professionals who understand the unique needs of each patient. If you’re struggling with stress-induced weight gain, contact us today for more information about how we can help!

Can I reverse the signs of ageing: Perception or problem?

I’ve just attended some training with a psychiatrist, who is an expert in mental health in the aesthetics industry. I’m blown away to hear the fact that of those of us who have aesthetic treatments, 50% suffer from some form of diagnosable psychiatric disorder. 

That’s HUGE... and SCARY!

Now before you make any judgement, remember that we live in strange times and that our modern-day lifestyles mean it’s not too surprising to hear this.

I might recognise that you are unsuitable for treatment if you show signs of:

  1. Expecting me to completely reverse the signs of ageing 
  2. Focusing on an insignificant defect, or seeing a flaw in your face that I cannot see
  3. Mirror avoidance or excessive mirror looking (looking very closely or for an extended period of time at your face in clinic) 
  4. Expecting the treatment to totally change your life, or change your marital or employment status
  5. Not being interested in the risks involved in the treatment
  6. If you are in crisis like a recent death, trauma or other major life-changing event
  7. Show a history of being repeatedly unhappy with treatment outcomes from me or someone else.

What I learnt was that for some disorders, like body dysmorphia, I am most likely to be the health professional to realise there may be a problem. 

How do I know if I could have body dysmorphia?

The truth is that most of us have it, to some degree, even if that’s only 0.005%!

If you’re reading this blog, then you’re probably a patient or thinking about being one, so you have some aspect about your face that bothers you enough to seek treatment. The difference is that it’s NOT significantly impacting your life so as to cause significant distress and stop you from going about your normal life. 

You could have dysmorphia if you show signs of;

  1. Excessive mirror checking
  2. Excessive grooming
  3. Skin picking
  4. Reassurance seeking, about an aspect of your face or body, from others ( especially when comparing yourself to others) 

What does this mean for you?

If you recognise that you show some of the behaviours mentioned above, don’t be alarmed, there are treatments to help you. It also doesn’t mean that you are excluded from having aesthetic treatments. What I learn from the training is, that the most important thing is that both you and I realise and acknowledge the problem, so we can have an open and honest discussion on what’s best for you, to help you manage your care. What’s clear from the research is that, if the condition goes unrecognised, and treatment continues without consideration of the problem, then almost certainly, your condition will become worse. 

Red as a tomato? Pale with shock? Goose pimples?

If you’ve ever experienced any of these, then you’ll know that the skin and brain talk to each other. I have previously written about the gut-skin connection, similarly, there is a brain-skin axis. You only have to think about when you’ve felt stressed and felt the sweat running down your back, to know the impact our feelings can have on our skin. 

All of the above are temporary responses to stress or emotions, but what if feelings like being sad, overwhelmed and being out of control, take over your daily life?

Flicking the switch: How the stress hormones are released

The pituitary gland is about the size of a pea and rests in the anterior chamber of your skull. It acts like a switchboard for your stress hormones, the primary signal coming from the hypothalamus gland, just above it. When it’s activated, like when you’re stressed, it sends a signal to another gland just above your kidney, called the adrenal gland. 

When your adrenal gland receives its message, it releases a powerful hormone called Cortisol, and other stress hormones called Catecholamines. Both of these hormone types are beneficial and vital in maintaining a healthy body. However, if you’re high for too long, they can turn against you. High levels of cortisol and catecholamines can weaken our immunity, damage organs (including the skin), and increase blood sugar levels. 

This is why chronic stress has been linked to a host of conditions like diabetes, food allergies, weight gain, increased susceptibility to colds and flu-like illnesses, cancer, heart disease and many more…..

Chronic stress and how it shows on your face

As noted previously, high levels of stress hormones weaken your immunity, which means that it can’t keep itself in tip-top condition, which means it’s more susceptible to bacteria, virus’s and fungi; sun damage and pollution.  

This can worsen chronic skin conditions like eczema, acne, rosacea and psoriasis. Apart from this, the reduced ability of the skin to repair itself, means that you will experience more lines and wrinkles as elastic tissue depletes, loss of plumpness as collagen levels dive and your skin could become dry as the skin loses its ability to produce the lipid layer that seals moisture in.

How can you manage stressed skin?

While reducing stress levels should theoretically help to alleviate damaging effects on the skin, there’s only limited data regarding the effectiveness of stress-reducing interventions. There is some evidence that meditation may lower stress hormone levels in people who do it regularly. Research shows these techniques to be helpful in controlling psoriasis, however, more proof is  needed to show the benefit of these techniques in other skin conditions. Healthy lifestyle habits, including a well-balanced diet and exercise, may also help to regulate stress hormones in the body, which should in turn have positive effects on skin and hair.

If you are experiencing a skin condition related to stress, see a dermatologist for your condition, and try some stress-reducing techniques at home. In addition, No4 can offer advice and treatments aimed at reducing adult acne, rosacea and ageing skin.

For more information contact us here.

Why would anyone get their fillers dissolved? They’re the number two aesthetic treatment worldwide! Millions of people are queuing up for fuller cheeks, contoured features and plump, shapely lips.

However, some celebrities are rocking the boat by deciding to get their filler removed, encouraging us to re-evaluate our attitude towards this procedure.

The Risks Of Overfilling

I’ve never felt comfortable with very large lips, but thanks to celebrity role models and social media stars, overfilled lips are becoming the norm. I’m glad to see people challenging the trend, with Love Island star Charlotte Crosby making the headlines by having her lip filler chemically dissolved. She put a question mark over the value of excessive lip fillers, while cosmetic doctors are exploring the risks of overfilling.

For example, Dr Harris deliberately draws attention to the distortion caused by overfilled lips and cheeks. He believes that too much filler leads to ‘alienisation’, with features enlarged outside the normal range for the individual in question. 

However, it’s not always an unscrupulous doctor or an excessive treatment that leads to these strangely exaggerated results. Many people forget what they looked like before treatment and return for more or the substance takes longer to dissolve than we originally thought. The patients believe that they’re in need of a top-up while it’s still in their system, leading to a double dose of filler.

The Mental Health Link

We all think about our appearance. Low confidence is often the motivation to have an aesthetic treatment such as dermal fillers, as it helps us to embrace how we look. However, cosmetic treatment has been linked to an extreme preoccupation with appearance, known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). People with BDD spend a disproportionate amount of time obsessing over minor or imagined flaws. This can be enormously upsetting, so it’s no surprise they turn to cosmetics to try and fix the problem. 

It’s a difficult issue for us practitioners to identify, especially as fewer than 10% of patients with BDD are satisfied with the results of their treatment. They move on to other practitioners to correct this perceived problem or their anxieties transfer to another area of the face or body. Their constant quest to fix the flaw leads to distorted, overfilled features.

Now, not everyone with overfilled features is suffering from BDD. After all, we all worry about our appearance to some extent and BDD is the extreme end of the spectrum. In my practice, I tend to see patients who are delighted with a filler treatment, but quickly forget what they looked like before the procedure. They want a more discernible difference, so they come back wanting another treatment. 

It’s easy to see how people’s faces become overfilled, especially as fillers may last much longer than we think. Alice Hart Davis, a beauty journalist and author, discovered that 35ml of dermal filler is still present in her face, even though we expect it to have dissolved naturally in less than two years.

So I Should Avoid Fillers?

Not at all! They help millions of people to look youthful, including me! However, we do need to take care. 

In my clinic, I limit the amount I’m prepared to place at one time, assessing my patients via ultrasound to determine if any filler remains. This helps me decide if it’s suitable for them to have more treatment or whether I should direct them to an alternative, of which we have many. When I do conduct treatments, I tend to use Juvederm, which creates wonderfully subtle and natural-looking results.

Book A Consultation

Are you interested in dermal fillers? Visit our website for more information or contact us to book a consultation. 

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The excitement of Christmas has faded away, replaced by a new year! We often see this as a new start and a chance to reset, as we abstain from bad foods, alcohol and an unhealthy lifestyle. We start a diet instead or take up running. However, you want to be careful with this ‘new year new me’ philosophy!

New Year New Me: The Big Flaw

There’s one big problem with this mindset – it doesn’t work! Studies show that 23% of people give up on their New Year’s Resolutions after one week, while 43% expect to give up before the end of January. In fact, less than 10% of people successfully continue with their new lifestyle! 

‘New year new me’ won’t motivate you for very long, especially after a slip-up. You need a plan for a long-term goal because you can rarely make lasting changes based on an impulse. As a dentist, I believe in making small changes, which culminate in significant improvements. 

The Alcohol Example

Take alcohol for example. From a skin perspective, we’re in favour of reducing your intake. Too much alcohol dehydrates the skin and reduces elasticity, leading to fine lines, creases and a dull, dry complexion. It can also give rise to conditions like psoriasis and rosacea, to say nothing of the increased risk of skin infections. On the other hand, going cold turkey can be a mistake. It doesn’t allow any flexibility for what can be a big lifestyle change (depending on how much you’re used to drinking). Similarly, you might be invited to a social event and feel like you’re unable to enjoy a drink, leading to regret, resentment and an eventual return to bad habits.

Instead of being stern with yourself, follow a little-by-little approach. Try giving up alcohol during the week and allowing yourself 3-4 units at the weekend or at a party. It may feel like a little change, but imagine the impact after one, two or three months! You’ll be in a much healthier state, without the inevitable disappointment caused by the ‘new year new me’ attitude.

In Search Of A Miracle

There’s more to January than giving up bad habits. Many of you contact me in the winter, asking me to restore your faces after the festive period. You might be searching for a quick fix, hoping that I’ll turn around and present you with a miracle cure. We have some excellent treatments at No. 4, including luxurious Hydrafacials and healing light therapy, but they’re not magic. I can’t solve all your problems with the wave of a wand or give you an undetectable treatment with no downtime. 

We’re not here to transform you into your ‘new year new me’ ideal. We’re here to walk alongside you as you seek to renew your skin and age well. Ageing well takes commitment, much like a New Year’s Resolution, which is why we encourage you to stop and think about the best ways to achieve your goals. 

We’re partners, you and me. You trust me to listen to you, identify your main concerns and then come up with a plan. I might direct you to Su’s Skin Program, ideal for investing in your future complexion. Alternatively, I might point you to my own skincare plan, perfect for combating signs of ageing and menopause. Through 12 in-depth sessions, I’ll boost your collagen production, reduce fine lines and soften wrinkles, helping you achieve a healthy, glowing appearance. 

The First Step

Are you ready to take the first step? Then contact us to book a consultation! It’s the best opportunity to find the right treatment

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