Getting professional skincare treatments like dermal fillers can be transformative for your confidence and appearance. But before you book that appointment, there are some essential considerations that could make the difference between amazing results and a disappointing experience.
Professional aesthetic treatments require careful planning and research. The choices you make beforehand—from selecting your practitioner to understanding the products they use—will directly impact your results and safety. Here’s what you need to know to make informed decisions about your skincare journey.
Research Your Practitioner Thoroughly
Your aesthetician’s qualifications matter more than their Instagram following. Look for practitioners who are medically qualified, such as doctors, nurses, or dentists with specific training in aesthetic procedures. They should be registered with relevant professional bodies and able to provide evidence of their training.
Check their credentials online and read reviews from multiple sources. A reputable practitioner will be transparent about their qualifications and happy to discuss their experience during a consultation. Don’t be swayed by bargain prices—this is your face we’re talking about.
Ask about their experience with the specific treatment you want. Someone who’s performed hundreds of Juvederm filler treatments will likely deliver better results than someone who’s just completed their training course.
Understand Product Quality and Sourcing
Not all dermal fillers are created equal, and where your practitioner sources their products matters enormously. Legitimate practitioners buy their supplies directly from authorised distributors or the manufacturers themselves. This ensures the products are genuine, properly stored, and within their expiry dates.
Juvederm filler, for instance, should come in sealed packaging with batch numbers that can be traced. Your practitioner should be able to show you the product packaging and explain its provenance. Be wary of anyone offering treatments at suspiciously low prices—they might be using counterfeit or expired products.
Ask your aesthetician where they source their products. A professional will be proud to discuss their supply chain and may even show you the product before treatment.
Have Realistic Expectations
Social media can create unrealistic expectations about what aesthetic treatments can achieve. Professional treatments work best when they enhance your natural features rather than completely transforming your appearance.
During your consultation, your practitioner should explain what results you can realistically expect. They should also discuss potential side effects and what the recovery process involves. If someone promises dramatic changes with no downtime, be sceptical.
Bring reference photos if you have specific goals, but remember that your facial structure is unique. What works for someone else might not be the best approach for you.
Consider the Consultation Process
A thorough consultation is non-negotiable. Your practitioner should assess your medical history, discuss your goals, and examine your face carefully. They should explain the procedure, potential risks, and aftercare requirements.
This consultation might be separate from your treatment appointment, giving you time to consider your decision. Avoid practitioners who rush you into treatment on the same day without adequate discussion.
Use the consultation to ask questions. How long will results last? What happens if you don’t like the outcome? How do they handle complications? Their answers will tell you a lot about their professionalism.
Plan Your Treatment Timing
Professional skincare treatments often require downtime. Dermal fillers might cause swelling or bruising that takes several days to subside. Plan your treatment well before any important events or occasions.
Consider your lifestyle too. Some treatments require avoiding certain activities or products for a few days afterwards. Make sure you can follow the aftercare instructions properly.
Book treatments when you can take time off if needed. Your skin deserves the recovery time to heal properly and show the best results.
Prepare Your Skin Properly
Your practitioner should provide specific pre-treatment instructions, but generally, you’ll want to avoid alcohol, blood-thinning medications (if safe to do so), and excessive sun exposure before your appointment.
Arrive at your appointment with clean skin and no makeup. Some treatments work better on skin that’s been properly prepared, so follow all pre-treatment advice carefully.
Don’t try new skincare products in the weeks leading up to your treatment. Stick to your usual routine to avoid any unexpected reactions.
Make an Informed Decision
Professional aesthetic treatments can be wonderful when done properly, but they’re not decisions to take lightly. Take time to research, ask questions, and choose practitioners based on their qualifications and reputation rather than price alone.
Remember that the cheapest option is rarely the best when it comes to your face. Invest in quality practitioners who use legitimate products from reputable sources. Your skin—and your confidence—will thank you for it.
Book a consultation with a qualified practitioner to discuss your skincare goals. The right professional will guide you towards treatments that enhance your natural beauty safely and effectively.
