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The safe way to cosmetic treatments

29-08-2018

Whether it is plumping up a pout or smoothing wrinkles, an increasing number of us are seeking non-invasive cosmetic procedures to refresh our appearance.

But did you know that anyone can order a syringe online and offer lip filler services? There remains an urgent need for better regulation of anti-ageing devices and injectables available in the UK. In this blog, we discuss the safe way to choose an aesthetic practitioner for cosmetic treatments.

Although the benefits of anti-ageing treatments can be immense, restoring confidence and promoting a general sense of wellbeing, many have the potential to cause serious side effects, which is why it is important to seek a practitioner who has medical training and experience.

Not only should you avoid amateur injectors at all costs, you should also always have the procedure performed in a clinical setting.

Treatments performed in non-sterile, non-clinical environments – at parties, in beauty salons or even in hotels and at exhibitions and so on – are a huge risk to your health.

The constant stream of botched filler and Botox stories – with complications including allergic reactions, broken blood vessels, extreme swelling, skin necrosis and blindness – should serve as cautionary tales to us all.

So, how best to ensure you are in safe hands?

Firstly, ensure the person administering the injection is a medical professional.

Dedicate as much time as necessary to do your homework online and limit your searches to prescribing medical professionals.

Botox and dermal lip fillers may be considered non-surgical aesthetic treatments but, in a world that remains unregulated, seek a trusted practitioner who can deliver treatment in a safe environment – and can handle a medical emergency should there be complications or adverse side effects.

Is the person a nurse, doctor, pharmacist or dentist? How experienced are they in injectables? Have they undergone advanced technique training in the treatments? How do they keep their knowledge current? How do they minimise risk with aesthetic procedures? Do they belong to an association or is the clinic affiliated to a recognised register?

Once you’ve decided on a prescribing medical professional, ask to see their medical credentials. You are fully entitled to know where he or she received their training, how long ago it was, and how much applicable work experience they have gained since then. Ask to see ‘before and after’ photos, too.

Additionally, research the place where your cosmetic treatment will take place. Does it have accreditation and is it inspected regularly? Check that there are no malpractice suits connected with the clinic.

Those of us looking to turn back the years by having cosmetic procedures, such as Botox and dermal fillers, should always seek reassurance that those offering such treatments are approved and safe to practice.
You should always check:

• Who treats you
• Where you are treated
• With what substance

Put simply, the recommendation is ABC — Always Background Check! Here at Intrigue Cosmetic Clinic, we are devoted to making your aesthetic treatment journey a safer one.

Our clinic is a Save Face accredited practitioner, which means we are on a national register of trusted clinics that provide non-surgical cosmetic treatments safely. The register is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care and is recognised by the government, the Department of Health, NHS England and the Care Quality Commission.

Read Our Blog On Why Do We Take Care Of Our Appearance? The Rise Of Aesthetic Treatments.