Cowboy cosmetics vs clinical aesthetics - your guide to staying safe

While many choose to undergo procedures, there are also a large proportion that don’t. And that’s absolutely fine. However, if you are looking to enhance your appearance or slow down the ageing process, yet reluctant to reach out and begin your aesthetics journey because of the fear of complications; keep reading!

The likelihood of getting a serious complication with botox and/or dermal filler is less than 1%. Seems pretty low, right? Unfortunately, many cases are unreported so the true figure is unknown. It is important to note that complications and side effects are inevitable, and what matters is choosing a practitioner that swiftly recognises when things go awry and can resolve issues quickly.

Let’s discuss some risk factors that can help identify a “Cowboy Cosmetic” practitioner vs. a Safe, Clinical practitioner. A good practitioner will incorporate the following in their practise:

• Training in complications management, use of emergency kits and protocols

• Using regulated CE certified products

• Aftercare including giving you urgent contact details in the event of a complication

• Member of a regulatory body like the GMC, NMC, DDC

• Fully insured

• Taking a full medical history and using consent forms

So while we cannot completely avoid complications (such is life), these helpful tips should minimise their risk of occurring.

“You get what you pay for”, an accurate reflection of the aesthetics industry!