Beauty Uncovered - Summer Issue - 2021

B RIN G IN G THE WOR LD O F AESTH E TI C M E DI CI N E TO YO U

Meet Cherry Healey

Male Hair Loss Growing your confidence back

TV's transformation guru

Summer Selfcare PHOTOGRAPHY: CHANNEL 5

The do’s and don’ts

be autyunc overed .c om

Face Life. Face First.

THE BEST SKIN OF YOUR LIFE It’s not a facial, it’s HydraFacial.

We believe that beauty is a feeling, not a physical attribute, and the results from HydraFacial will leave you ready to face life face first. HydraFacial technology is unique, and so are the results it achieves.

The treatment delivers instant results that you can see and feel and improves your skin health over time.

Only HydraFacial uses a unique, patented Vortex-Fusion delivery system to exfoliate, extract and hydrate skin, and the spiral design delivers painless extractions. The spiral design of HydroPeel® Tips, used in conjunction with the HydraFacial proprietary vacuum technology and serums, creates a vortex effect to easily dislodge and remove impurities while simultaneously delivering hydrating skin solutions.

HydraFacial is scored as a ‘99% Worth It’ rating by www.realself.com and on average, somewhere in the world, a HydraFacial treatment is now carried out every 10 seconds!

IS HYDRAFACIAL RIGHT FOR YOU? Yes. We don’t have a type.

HydraFacial is for everyone. It’s suitable for all skin types and addresses all skincare needs.

With our powerful range of personalisation treatment boosters, including such well-known brands as ZO, Circadia, Nassiff MD and now Murad - the possibilities for your skin regime are endless.

HYDRAFACIAL includes DETOX Begin with Lymphatic drainage that improves circulation of the lymph system and helps to eliminate toxins.

CLEANSE + PEEL Uncover a new layer of skin with gentle exfoliation and relaxing resurfacing.

EXTRACT + HYDRATE Remove debris from pores with painless suction.

Nourish with intense moisturisers that quench skin.

FUSE + PROTECT Saturate the skin’s surface with antioxidants and peptides to maximise your glow.

REJUVENATION Finish with red and infrared LED light to reduce redness and further stimulate collagen, supporting the natural production of vitamin D.

Find out more and your nearest provider today at

www.hydrafacial.co.uk/ find-a-provider

HydraFacial addresses: Fine Lines & Wrinkles, Elasticity & Firmness, Even Tone & Vibrancy, Skin Texture, Brown Spots, Oily & Congested Skin and Enlarged Pores.

HydraFacial delivers instant and long lasting results that you can see and feel. With ongoing treatments, you’ll notice intensely improved hydration, minimised dark spots and dramatically reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

To see the HydraFacial in action follow us

@hydrafacialuk

Welcome to Beyond Beauty!

Let’s introduce our new Acting Editor…

Editor Chloé Gronow

Since releasing our very first issue of Beyond Beauty earlier this year, I have been approaching a new and exciting stage in my life, with the arrival of my first baby! Although I have interviewed countless aesthetic practitioners about the significant skin and body changes one undergoes during pregnancy, it still wasn’t enough to prepare me for the shock of experiencing it all myself. In this issue I share how I have managed my skin changes during pregnancy and sought advice from a top professional – have a read on p.25!

So, while I embark on this new journey, it is with pride I announce that our current Deputy Editor Shannon Kilgariff will be stepping in as Acting Editor.

Shannon has been an excellent ambassador for the aesthetics specialty and in this unregulated sector, I’m confident she will continue to enhance your knowledge, build your trust and promote positivity around the world of nonsurgical aesthetic treatments and cosmetic surgery!

Taking Beyond Beauty forward...

Acting Editor Shannon Kilgariff

It is an honour to step in as Acting Editor while Chloé enjoys her maternity leave. I have worked with Chloé in the aesthetics specialty as a journalist and editor for almost six years, learning and writing about all the latest aesthetic and cosmetic surgery treatments.

I can say after speaking to numerous experts over the years that it’s an exciting and developing field, with new products and techniques continuously being introduced to help make us look and feel better about ourselves in every year of our lives.

In this issue it was wonderful to feature so many real-life stories of people who have experienced aesthetic treatments. Although so many of us have had a little ‘tweakment’ here and there, most are afraid or even ashamed to speak about it! So thank you to those helping to break the stigma. If you’ve ever had an aesthetic treatment and would like to share your story – do get in touch and we would be delighted to speak to you!

As well as subscribing to the magazine, you can meet the experts and trial treatments in real life at our fabulous event – Beyond Beauty Live – happening in 2022 on May 7 & 8 in London – stay tuned for all the details!

Don't miss out on your next issue – subscribe now for £20 per year!

35 On the Cover 35

TV Transformations & Mindset Manifestations Meet Cherry Healey – the star presenter of 10 Years Younger in 10 Days!

Every issue 6 30 54 65

Ask the Experts A myth-buster masterclass How Will You Age? Lip anatomy and treatment approaches Recipe A smoothie to improve stress from within Our Top Picks BB’s book, podcast and TV show recommendations

Contents

25

Treatments 8 16 28 47 48 60 61

Defining Botulinum Toxin The lowdown on anti-wrinkle injections Cryolipolysis: Freeze Away Fat Cells Cooling stubborn fat to sub-zero Know the Risks!

Staying safe when having dermal fillers Did You Know You can be a feminist and still get cosmetic treatments?

Ten Things to Know Skin sculpting and lifting with the Ultherapy device Fillers & COVID-19 Considerations before dermal fillers A Solution to Male Hair Loss Grow your confidence back

Real-life Stories 18 22 25 43 58

Skincare 51 53 56 57

8 61

51

The Big M Advice on managing menopausal symptoms Chin Up! One woman's experience of filler enhancements Getting the Pregnancy Glow Managing skin changes while expecting Pesky Pigmentation Peeling away your insecurities Restoring Body Confidence Cosmetic surgery to improve your everyday life

Do’s and Don’ts of Summer Selfcare Caring for your skin in the warmer months How To Perform Home Light Treatments Discover the benefits of LED devices Smoothing Your Skin Improving acne scars using lasers Reviewing Results Experiencing HydraFacial as a pre-wedding treatment

Top Products 12 32 38

Need to Know Products The newest skincare, devices, aesthetic treatments and techniques Beyond Beauty Live Products you can discover on May 7-8, 2022 Clinics and Practitioners of the Year Aesthetics Awards winners worth knowing about in 2021

ASK THE EXPERTS

Myth-Buster Masterclass Three expert practitioners debunk some of the most common misconceptions in aesthetics

Emma Coleman, aesthetic nurse, Emma Coleman Skin, London IG: @emmacolemanskin

Dr Dev Patel, aesthetic practitioner, Perfect Skin Solutions, Southsea IG: @drdevpatel1

Mrs Sabrina Shah-Desai, aesthetic oculoplastic surgeon, Perfect Eyes Ltd, London IG: @drsabrinashahdesai

“I should only get injectables when I have wrinkles”

"Getting a surgical procedure lasts forever"

DR PATEL SAYS:

MRS SABRINA SHAH-DESAI SAYS: This is unfortunately untrue! Usually, surgical procedures last between seven to 10 years and the longevity depends on the individual's ageing, for example the decrease in fat on the body and face, sagging skin. Surgery does not stop the continued facial soft tissue and bone from ageing; therefore, this will change the way the surgical results look over time. Some ‘permanent’ procedures may be naturally undone. Liposuction will remove fat deposits, but you are still likely to gain weight in the treated areas, which depending on the amount of weight gained, can make the results disappear.

This is absolutely false! There is a ‘preventative’ benefit from botulinum toxin (also known as toxin) and skin boosters.

Even certain dermal fillers may boost collagen and delay the appearance of fine lines. I tell my patients to think of such treatments as an anti-wrinkle cream – you wouldn’t want to wait until you see the lines to start using it!

So many patients wait until they have obvious lines and folds that are causing serious confidence issues, but often if the patient had started earlier, they would likely have never reached that stage.

There is no need to start years beforehand, but if you do get in earlier rather than later, it can help prevent the lines appearing and getting as bad as they might otherwise have.

If you are looking to prevent ageing, injectables that stimulate collagen and elastin production whilst increasing hydration are perfect! Skin boosters such as Belotero Revive, Profhilo and Sunekos are good options here, as well as collagen stimulating dermal fillers such as Radiesse. Of course, toxin (injected into the muscle) is great for softening and preventing large expression lines which cause wrinkles over time.

6

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“Having dermal fillers as a man will make me look feminine” NURSE COLEMAN SAYS: It is true that men have very different facial requirements and end goals to women. However, an experienced and skilled medical practitioner will know how to assess and treat all individuals appropriately and will tailor their treatment method to the patient. A

ASK THE EXPERTS man can therefore have masculine results, if they wish, perhaps creating a chiselled and taut appearance through restoring the bone structure with dermal fillers, thereby maintaining a subtle, natural result.

MRS SABRINA SHAH-DESAI SAYS: False! Dermal fillers can be used on men to treat deep frown and smile lines at the sides of the mouth (nasolabial folds), filling deep hollows under the eyes (tear trough) and add definition to the jawline and chin for a more chiselled appearance. Make sure that the aesthetic practitioner you pick has had experience treating male faces as the anatomy of the face differentiates from women.

“I can’t get rid of my dark under-eye circles” NURSE COLEMAN SAYS: Whilst the dark pigment of the skin cannot be completely erased, there are options for disguising darkness and hollows around the eye. Dermal fillers can be injected into the undereye area or ‘tear trough’ which aim to hydrate and plump it in a subtle way, creating support and thereby hiding the darkness and improving hollow, dark circles.

Another option is mesotherapy. This treatment involves a practitioner injecting micro-doses of a mixture of nourishing ingredients into the skin or fat tissues. These ingredients include hyaluronic acid and tissue-building proteins which encourages rejuvenation, skin tightening, and improving the skin’s appearance. Radiofrequency can also be beneficial for those experiencing excess skin under the eyes alongside darkness, as it tightens the area, reducing puffiness and pigmentation.

I recommend the Pellevé and Exilis Ultra 360 machines for maximum results, but there are lots of devices available and you should conduct your own research.

MRS SHAH-DESAI SAYS: This is a myth! There are a variety of options available to getting rid of under-eye dark circles.

From topical eye creams to peels and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. This treatment involves a small amount of blood being taken, processed, and then injected back into the body to stimulate healing and regeneration. All are great options for reducing dark circles due to skin hyperpigmentation. PRP is great for reducing dark circles and eyebags whilst also plumping and tightening the area. For moderate to severe hollows and eye bags, fillers and surgery can be considered. Fat in the lower lid can be removed or repositioned through a cut hidden in the natural lower lid crease or surface of the lid. But, however dark your circles are, there are numerous options to consider, so speak with a medical practitioner about your concerns first!

“If my skincare contains key ingredients on the label it must work”

"An experienced and skilled medical practitioner will know how to assess and treat all individuals appropriately" Nurse Coleman

DR PATEL SAYS: You do want to have desired active ingredients in your skincare; but be warned! Just because they are labelled as an ingredient, doesn’t mean they will necessarily work! Ingredients in skincare products must have a ‘clinically effective concentration’, meaning that they need to have a high enough percentage of the ingredient for it to have an effect. Many companies will simply advertise that their product contains certain ingredients, but the desired active ingredient(s) may be very low down on the list, for instance in a sub-therapeutic concentration.

This is known as ‘dusting’. A simple tip is to look at where the active ingredients appear in the list. Just like food labelling, if these appear low down (near the preservatives), this is likely an example of ‘dusting’! There are a few other factors to look out for when it comes to skincare, and the best thing to do is to seek a consultation with an aesthetic practitioner or a dermatologist so you can get trusted advice.

HAVE YOU GOT A QUESTION FOR THE EXPERTS?

Drop us an email via hello@beyondbeautylive.com or DM us on Instagram @beyondbeauty_mag

INTERVIEW: ELLIE HOLDEN

beyondbeauty.co.uk

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TOXIN FACTS

Defining Botulinum Toxin The experts provide you with everything you need to know about anti-wrinkle injections There aren’t many people these days who haven’t heard of the term ‘Botox’. With botulinum toxin being the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure for men and women, there’s no wonder it’s heavily talked about. Unfortunately, many people don’t have very positive views about it. Why? Mostly because of the countless celebrities who look ridiculously frozen, completely without expression and utterly unnatural.

Oh, and isn’t it toxic…?

What you don’t often see, however, is the outstanding results making so many people delighted with the way they look. So how exactly does this anti-wrinkle treatment work and can it benefit you? We spoke to two expert practitioners to find out.

What is botulinum toxin?

Nurse Anna explains that botulinum toxin type A (also known as toxin) is a purified protein derived from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria that blocks the nerve signals to the muscle. When it’s injected, this temporarily paralyses the muscle so it can’t contract and move the surrounding skin, meaning you get a nice smooth canvas! Toxin is commonly known as ‘Botox’, but this actually refers to a brand name, much like Hoover is colloquially used to refer to any type of vacuum cleaner! “There are other brands including Bocouture, Azzalure, Jeuveau and others from Asia that are now entering the European market,” explains Dr Samizadeh, adding, “The choice of product will be made by your medical professional after a thorough consultation.”

How was toxin discovered as a wrinkle treatment?

It all started with a bad batch of German sausages; Dr Samizadeh laughs. “Poorly prepared sausages were causing botulism outbreaks, which is a very rare but life-threatening condition where the nervous system is attacked, causing muscle paralysis and death. Scientists spent years isolating the botulinum toxin protein, which eventually led to it being used 8

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Anna Baker, aesthetic nurse prescriber, Harley Street Skin London & The Retreatery, West Sussex IG: @annabakeraesthetics

Dr Souphiyeh Samizadeh, aesthetic practitioner, Revivify London Clinic, Facial Rejuvenation, London & Shanghai IG: @drsouphi

"Toxin injections using a licensed product for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes are considered safe when injected by a knowledgeable and skilled healthcare professional" Dr Souphiyeh Samizadeh

TOX IN FACTS

“After getting toxin, most people say their friends and family comment how refreshed and happy they look, which is the kind of result you want!”

Dr Souphiyeh Samizadeh

for medical treatments such as strabismus in the 1970s,” she says, explaining that strabismus is when the eyes don’t properly align with each other. “While treating these patients, scientists noticed that an interesting side effect of the treatment was that it reduced the frown lines and crow’s feet of the patients, and hence the treatment has since been used widely due to its cosmetic benefits!” Dr Samizadeh says.

Is botulinum toxin toxic?

Technically yes, the so-called ‘miracle poison’ can be life-threatening, but it isn’t deadly in the cosmetic form. Nurse Anna explains, “The doses we work with for cosmetic uses are extremely small – certainly in comparison to the known lethal dose. For example, the lethal dose for a person of 70kg is calculated to be 2,500-3,000 units. For cosmetic purposes usually less than 30 units are injected directly into the targeted muscle,” she explains. Dr Samizadeh adds, “Toxin injections using a licensed product for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes are considered safe when injected by a knowledgeable and skilled healthcare professional. It is the most popular non-surgical procedure carried out internationally and this is testament to its effectiveness and safety.”

How can toxin benefit you?

Toxin is commonly known to reduce the appearance of your pesky forehead lines, frown lines in-between the brows and smile lines

around the eyes. However, toxin can be used to improve an array of cosmetic and medical conditions. Nurse Anna explains, “Because the toxin relaxes the muscles, reducing movement, it can not only improve fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, but it can balance areas of facial asymmetry, improve the signs of ageing around the neck area, reduce underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis), improve an overactive bladder or eye spasms and can even help migraines!”

Dr Samizadeh, who has a dental surgery background, also adds that it can help teeth grinding (bruxism) as well as so many other medical and cosmetic concerns. It should be noted that many toxin uses are considered ‘off-label’. This means it is not licensed to treat certain concerns but it doesn’t mean it is less effective. You should always ask your medical practitioner if the product is licensed for a particular use and if it's not, ensure they explain the research, evidence and its pros and cons.

Once injected with toxin, it usually takes a few days to become effective, nurse Anna notes, and the effect may initially last for approximately three months. “At this point, the toxin will be broken down and metabolised by the body and often results may last longer than three months with repeat treatments. Patients may wish to repeat the treatment twice a year or so, depending on their preference,” she adds.

Are there any risks to getting toxin treatment?

As with most non-surgical aesthetic treatments, side effects and complications are possible. “In expert hands, with the use of approved and licensed products, risks are minimal,” Dr Samizadeh emphasises, while nurse Anna states, “The side effects can include temporary bruising and pain at the site of injection, headaches, nausea, redness, drooping of the the brow or eyelid flu-like symptoms and temporary muscle weakness.”

According to Dr Samizadeh, there are also other rarer side effects that are less likely to occur. “These include things like muscle beyondbeauty.co.uk

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Pioneer and leader in non-invasive radiofrequency-based skin tightening treatments

Tighten and smooth the skin on your face, around the eyes and on the body in one session 1,2

Thermage FLX® offers multiple advantages: NO SURGERY OR INJECTIONS Thermage® is non-invasive. No cutting or needle is required.

A SINGLE TREATMENT One quick treatment (30 to 90 minutes depending on the treatment area) can deliver outstanding results for most patients.1,2 3

FAST AND COMFORTABLE A short, comfortable procedure that delivers maximum results.1,3 4

LITTLE TO NO DOWNTIME Return to your activity immediately after the procedure.

BE AN ORIGINAL.

IMMEDIATE AND LASTING RESULTS The results are immediately visible and improve over time.1,2 MULTIPLE TREATMENT AREAS Treats wrinkles and loose skin on the face, around the eyes and on the body.

Tara Model and Actual Patient

Thermage FLX® is the latest generation of monopolar radiofrequency developed to meet your needs in a personalized way, with improved patient comfort** and safety5.

To find a clinic and find out if Thermage® is right for you, visit: www.thermage.co.uk * Sales data. ** All comparisons are made with Thermage CPT® 1. E. Finzi, A. Spangler. Multipass vector (mpave) technique with nonablative radiofrequency to treat facial and neck laxity. Dermatol Surg. 2005 Aug;31(8 Pt 1):916-22. 2. R. Fitzpatrick et al. Multicenter study of noninvasive radiofrequency for periorbital tissue tightening. Lasers Surg Med. 2003;33(4):232-42. 3. Solta Medical, 2009. Report on Gazelle Clinical Study 09-100-GA-T ‘Validation of the Thermage 3.0 cm2 STC and DC Frame Tips,Comfort Software and Vibration Handpiece on the Face and Thighs’ (#09-019ER). Bothell. 4. M. Fritz et al. Radiofrequency treatment for middle and lower face. Arch Facial Plast Surg. Nov-Dec 2004;6(6):370-3. 5. Consensus Recommendations for 4th Generation Non-Microneedling Monopolar Radiofrequency for Skin Tightening: A Delphi Consensus Panel. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020 Jan 1;19(1):20-26.

Please read the User Manual / Instructions for Use (IFU) for further details on the risks associated with these Medical Devices.

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TOX IN FACTS

weakness, vision problems, trouble speaking, swallowing or breathing, as well as a few others depending on the area injected.” To address most toxin complications, Dr Samizadeh notes that often there is no quick fix. She points out, “If you don’t like your result, or have a complication, there is no immediate antidote to help resolve it, so this is why it’s important to choose your practitioner wisely.”

Will you look frozen?

PHOTOGRAPHY: VISIBLE BY HANNAH

"The reason people look too stiff after treatment is because the practitioner may have injected far too much into the muscles, which doesn't create a natural result"

How do you choose a toxin practitioner?

Although toxin is a prescription-only medicine, meaning only a medical professional such as a doctor, dentist or prescribing nurse can prescribe it after an in-depth consultation, in the UK any lay person can legally inject the product. “I would advise against choosing someone who does not have a medical qualification. This qualification in addition to further aesthetic medicine training, will give them a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, correct assessment and complications recognition and management that would allow them to reduce the likelihood of complications and poor aesthetic outcomes,” says Dr Samizadeh.

Nurse Anna adds, “You should ensure you choose a medical practitioner who is insured and registered with their regulatory body (such as the General Medical Council, Nursing and Midwifery Council or the General Dental Council). They should be rigorously trained, experienced, and insured in administering toxin injections, as well as competent in managing any side effects or complications from treatment."

Finally, Dr Samizadeh says the key is to go to a practitioner that will give YOU the specific result that YOU are after, not the result that they give everybody. She adds, “If you are of non-Caucasian origin, consider that many practitioners are not as accustomed to treating various ethnicities and facial features, so look for examples in their portfolio that match your expectation, desires, facial characteristics and ethnicity.” beyondbeauty.co.uk

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WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

Nurse Anna Baker

Of course, another potential side effect of toxin treatment is looking TOO frozen.

Nurse Anna says, “If injected correctly by a highly-trained and experienced medical professional, you will not look frozen or fake and people won’t even be able to tell you have had toxin treatment. The reason people look too stiff after treatment is because the practitioner may have injected far too much into the muscles, which doesn’t create a natural result.”

Dr Samizadeh adds that you can work with your practitioner to get your desired result and can keep some natural facial movements remaining. She says, “The key is not to think of the desired outcome as a ‘poker face’ but one that is youthful, natural and beautiful or handsome. A natural youthful face is not expression free! After getting toxin, most people say their friends and family comment how refreshed and happy they look, which is the kind of result you want!”

P RO D UCT LAUN CHES

NEED TO KNOW PRODUCTS The latest skincare, devices, aesthetic treatments, and techniques making their way to a clinic near you!

Skincare

AlumierMD Eye Edit

iS Clinical SPF

Medik8 Sleep Glycolic

Experiencing tired-looking eyes? The at-home AlumierMD Eye Edit kit aims to improve the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eye. Inside, you will receive the AluminEye cream to increase firmness and hydration, while the Eye Rescue Pads restore moisture.

No excuses not to give your eyes the rejuvenation they need!

With the summer months in full swing, these new SPF products launched by iS Clinical will be essential for protecting your skin this year! The Extreme Protect SPF 40 is designed to provide UVA/UVB protection, add hydration and protect against environmental damage, whilst the Liprotect SPF 35 will protect your lips from sun damage.

Treating your skin at night is just as important as the day, so this overnight at-home peel will be integral for leaving your complexion visibly brighter. This product is suitable for all skin types, including oily and uneven textured skin, as well as those prone to hyperpigmentation.

Always remember to apply sunscreen the following day!

mesoestetic cleansing solutions

Revision Skincare

Interested in introducing some new skincare products to your routine? mesoestetic has launched new cleansing products, as well as an at-home peel treatment to its expanding range. The products have been designed with bio-balancing, antioxidant, and anti-pollution solutions. Products include: a facial tonic, renewal, anti-stress and hydravital masks and the classic hydramilk. The micropeel is a micro-exfoliant that aims to renew the skin and remove dead cells, leaving your skin feeling refreshed!

Now available in the UK, Revision Skincare aims to combat visible signs of ageing through its 12-product portfolio. One stand-out product from the range is the BodiFirm body contouring lotion which aims to help firm, tighten and lift the appearance of skin for a more toned and sculpted look. This product is perfect for use before and after body contouring procedures to complement overall results whilst restoring hydration and support to the skin's moisture barrier.

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P RO D UCT LAUN CHES

skinbetter science Hydrating Defense

Viscoderm Hydrobooster

VIVACY Dermo-Cosmetics

Remember skincare isn’t just for women; men can benefit too. This daily skin treatment for men provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors.

The product targets sebum levels on the skin, resulting in a less oily appearance whilst improving skin tone, texture, and redness. Don’t forget to tell the men in your life that this is a skincare must!

Hyaluronic acid is an essential ingredient within skincare, which makes the Viscoderm Hydrobooster a must in any skin regime! This hydrating cream is enriched with active plant ingredients such as jojoba oil and shea butter, which help to restore the light protective film that covers the skin and keeps it intact over time whilst adding a extra glow.

Caring for your skin after receiving an aesthetic treatment is vital. The new VIVACY Dermo-Cosmetics range uses technology to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin using active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, sorbitol, and vitamin C. The range includes six products to assist with aftercare post-procedure and for antiageing benefits.

In-clinic treatments

Belotero Revive

CoolSculpting ELITE

Focus Dual

This hyaluronic acid dermal filler works beneath the skin to improve hydration, redness and the appearance of fine lines.

The filler can be injected into the face to minimise early signs of ageing. One treatment session is needed to combat photodamaged skin, fine lines, and atrophic scars and three sessions four weeks apart for improvement in elasticity. Remember to seek a consultation with a registered medical professional.

Looking to eliminate stubborn excess body fat? This body contouring cryolipolysis device can target the abdomen, flanks, arms, back, thighs and more. The treatment lasts between 30-45 minutes and has minimal downtime.

Results can be seen after two to six months and the number of treatments depends on the specific target area. Read more about cryolipolysis on p.16.

Ageing is one of the most popular reasons why patients seek treatments. The Focus Dual microneedling device aims to remodel collagen, improve fine lines, and tighten skin laxity. Treatments last between 30 minutes to an hour with no downtime. Depending on the skin concern, three treatment courses are recommended by your practitioner who will consult how long between each session you will need for optimal results. beyondbeauty.co.uk

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We are Revision Skincare …A complete line of professional skincare products formulated to deliver powerful results and Achieve Healthy, Beautiful Skin™

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C OMPL ET E PRODUC T OFFE RING Full range of Skincare Solutions:

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P RO D UCT LAUN CHES

Lanluma

MaiLi

Scarring on the skin can be tricky to manage and remove. The Frax Pro laser is designed to treat acne and surgical scars by using its dual-depth skin resurfacing technology.

The laser features a focused stream of cool air for greater comfort during and after treatment. The procedure lasts between 15 to 45 minutes and has little downtime.

Depending on the size of the area, usually three treatments are needed.

Did you know dermal fillers can be injected into the body as well as the face? If you want to help restore your skin's structure and reduce the appearance of cellulite, you might want to try the poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) collagen-stimulating dermal filler Lanluma. The Lanluma V can be injected by a medical professional into the face and hands and Lanluma X can be injected into the body in areas, such as the buttocks.

It can be difficult to address different facial concerns with only one injectable product.

MaiLi offers four hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers designed to treat certain concerns, including sculpting and shaping the face, filling deep wrinkles, volumising the lips and enhancing the chin and jawline.

Make sure you seek a medical practitioner’s advice to guide you on the best treatment course for you.

Secret PRO

Tricopat

UTH

Is your skin in need of some extra TLC? This new skin rejuvenation device aims to treat the deeper layers of the skin through skin resurfacing and radiofrequency microneedling. The device offers four treatments including Ultra Light, Ultra, Refine and Revive to target skin concerns such as photodamaged skin, scarring and improving skin laxity. Downtime is between three and four days.

Are you experiencing hair loss? This LED device aims to stimulate hair growth by promoting cell generation and circulation of the blood vessels for hair to flourish. The blue and red LED promotes tissue repair and improves the collagen production in your hair. The protocol consists of four sessions every three weeks, with each session lasting 20 minutes. Read more about treating hair loss on p.61.

New hyaluronic acid dermal filler brand UTH has brought four new products to the market. Hydrate is a skin booster that acts as a moisturiser under the skin; Fine is used for correcting wrinkles and volume loss; Deep is for treating deep wrinkles and the lips; and Sub-Q is designed for volume restoration and facial contouring. Remember to seek advice from a medical professional to recommend the best option for you! beyondbeauty.co.uk

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WORDS: ELLIE HOLDEN

Frax Pro

BO DY TREATM EN T

CRYOLI P OLYS I S: FR EEZ E AWAY FAT C ELLS How cooling your stubborn fat to sub-zero can help you achieve your body sculpting goals

H

ave you got a small pocket of fat that just won’t budge? Maybe you’ve tried the latest fad diet, or spent hours a week in the gym, with no success.

For many women and men, non-invasive body contouring treatments are a good option to help with the stubborn fat that just won’t go away, without the risks and downtime associated with surgery. One treatment that’s being used by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Khloe Kardashian, Amy Schumer and figure skating champion John Weir is cryolipolysis or ‘fat freezing’.

What is fat freezing?

Fat freezing is a way to recontour, shape and sculpt your body. It cools your fat cells to subzero temperatures through cup-shaped suction applicators that can be applied on the body and the freezing temperatures causes the fat cells to break down without damaging your surrounding skin. After the cooling, the practitioner will usually give the area a massage to help reduce swelling and bruising, while accelerating the elimination process of fat cells.

Fat freezing typically takes around an hour, depending on the area being treated and the type of device used. After the treatment, the fat undergoes a natural cell death process called ‘apoptosis’, where the body naturally processes the fat and removes the dead cells, which will be excreted through the lymphatic system.

Fat freezing treatments are a good alternative to more invasive procedures such as liposuction or surgery as they don’t take as much time, are cost effective, and have fewer risks with minimal to no recovery time.

Before

1

Cryolipolysis

2

1. Fat cells can be resistant to diet 2. Cryolipolysis cools and and exercise crystallises fat cells

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3. Crystallised fat cells are removed by the immune system

After

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4. The fat cells are eliminated

BO DY TREATM EN T

Before

After

Ask the professional…

Interested in trying cryolipolysis? Dr Tracy Mountford, founder of The Cosmetic Skin Clinic in Buckinghamshire and London, shares some advice. Find her on Instagram via @the_cosmetic_skin_clinic

Patient in her early 50s before and eight weeks after one cryolipolysis treatment session to her double chin with the CoolScupting device. This patient also had jawline fillers to complete her result. Patient treated at The Cosmetic Skin Clinic Before

After

Who can benefit from this treatment?

We can re-sculpt and recontour the whole body with this treatment and it’s highly successful – being popular with both men and women of all shapes and sizes. The ideal candidate is someone of normal weight that just has stubborn areas of fat that are hard to shift through diet and exercise alone.

Can you treat all skin types?

Patient in his mid-30s before and 12 weeks after two cryolipolysis treatment sessions to abdomen and flanks with the CoolScupting device. Patient treated at The Cosmetic Skin Clinic

What can be treated?

The most popular areas to treat with cryolipolysis are the abdomen, flanks and thighs, but it can treat almost any place on the body such as under the chin, the bra area for women, chest area for men, the upper arms, back, banana rolls underneath the buttocks and even around the knee!

As cryolipolysis destroys the fat cells, they will be permanently removed and won’t return. However, destroying these cells will not prevent more from appearing or for current cells to grow larger, so a healthy lifestyle must be maintained. You should also consider the potential side effects of this treatment, which can include short-term discomfort, temporary numbness, swelling and redness.

What are the results?

According to the results of 85 patients who underwent cryolipolysis treatment using the CoolSculpting device, the average fat reduction at follow-up was 21.5% and 55 of these patients saw a 27% reduction of lower abdomen fat.

Of course, results will differ according to the individual and the area being treated, as well as the kind of device that is used, but results will usually be seen from around three months. The number of treatment sessions varies from person to person depending on the desired outcome.

What type of fat freezing treatments are available?

How do I know where to go?

You should look for a practitioner with a good reputation and years of experience in body contouring, specifically fat freezing, because if the treatment isn’t done well and isn’t carried out artistically, you can get uneven results that look lumpy. Friends, family or colleague recommendations are ideal, or you can get a referral from the device company’s clinic locator.

What’s exciting in the world of fat freezing at the moment?

The treatment taking the industry by a storm right now is the newest device on the market called the CoolSculpting Elite – an upgrade to the popular CoolSculpting device. It can treat two body areas at the same time allowing you the beauty of being in and out of the clinic much quicker. We have carefully selected this technology as it has years of history showcasing its safety and efficacy. The original CoolSculpting device is also cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration with many millions of treatments worldwide under its belt. If you are someone looking to undergo a fat freezing treatment, it’s important the device your practitioner chooses has strong evidence for safety and results.

Dr Tracy Mountford uses CoolSculpting and is offering complimentary consultations for Beyond Beauty readers. Just quote Beyond Beauty when booking your consultation.

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WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

There’s lots of cryolipolysis devices available on the market, and your aesthetic practitioner can advise which is best for your treatment concerns. Some of the devices in the UK include: CoolTech, CRISTAL, Cryo Quattro, cryoHD, perfecte’ me, and 3D Ultimate. One of the most well-known cryolipolysis devices is CoolSculpting. Although this treatment has been around for almost 10 years, it’s recently launched a new platform called CoolSculpting Elite, which can treat twice the number of body areas in the same amount of time!

Yes! We can treat all coloured skins, although the treatment is not suitable for everyone. Those with very saggy, inelastic skin may exacerbate the problem if they have treatment, but this is true with any fat reduction procedure. These patients would be better suited to surgery, which is why we have to physically see you in clinic to carry out a full assessment.

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WELLNESS

PSYCHOLOGY

The Big M

A look at the use of antidepressants to manage menopausal symptoms and what might help as an alternative Let’s talk about menopause. Why? Because 13 million women in the UK are either peri- or post-menopausal.

Despite the fact that every single female will inevitably go through the menopause, the subject is the elephant in the room. It’s often not spoken about, nor understood, and has historically been another one of those things that women just ‘have to put up with’.

And can you believe it was only in September 2020 that the menopause became a part of the Relationship and Sex Education curriculum in England? No wonder it has been a big secret…

PHOTOGRAPHY: VISIBLE BY HANNAH

Although the menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, the symptoms mean thousands of women find it hard to cope.

With some side effects lasting up to 15 years, it’s no surprise women are crying out for help.

Antidepressant medication is a common treatment option that Dr Shirin Lakhani, aesthetic practitioner, is prescribed to patients to help Elite Aesthetics (Kent) & Cranley Clinic (London) cope with the changes that the IG: @drshirinlakhani menopause brings. However, according to aesthetic practitioner Dr Shirin Lakhani, there are other options available that help manage the cause of the concerns, which women need to know about so they can make an informed decision about the future of their mental and physical health and wellbeing.

Understanding the menopause “The menopause is defined as the permanent end of menstruation and reproductive capability, meaning a woman’s periods completely discontinue because the ovaries stop producing as much of the oestrogen

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hormone. The perimenopause is the time leading up to the menopause when your hormones fluctuate and cause various symptoms, but you’re still having your period,” explains Dr Lakhani.

The menopause commonly occurs between 45 and 55 years of age and the average age in the UK is 51, while the perimenopause may start years before this, with variations between race, ethnicity, demographic and lifestyle. That said, some women can go through menopause at a much younger age for a variety of reasons, which can come as a shock and be even more difficult to deal with. Dr Lakhani notes, “The perimenopause stage is where many women struggle, and some of the consequences can be absolutely devastating. Some will not have a care in the world, while one in four will experience debilitating symptoms that can last up to 15 years!”

The symptoms of the menopause are vast, and may include: hot flushes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, reduced sex drive, problems with memory and concentration, vaginal dryness and pain, itching or discomfort during sex, headaches, mood changes such as low mood or anxiety, more noticeable heartbeats, joint stiffness, aches and pains, reduced muscle mass, recurrent urinary tract infections, hair loss and weight gain – an extensive list!

Why are antidepressants prescribed?

Of course, there are valid reasons why antidepressants are prescribed to patients presenting with symptoms of the menopause. “The first is that they can help with some of the menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes,” says Dr Lakhani, adding, “The second is, for a lot of the time during

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WELLNESS

"Women need to know they are now lucky to have so many innovative treatments and effective medical interventions available to us so needn't spend this chapter of their lives in pain or despair"

PSYCHOLOGY

safety, so the approach is feared by some healthcare professionals as well as patients. However, newer research has found that natural progesterone and oestrogen do not significantly increase the risk of previous concerns such as heart disease, blood clots or cancer.”

Dr Lakhani uses a form of HRT called bio-identical (also known as body-identical), which is made using plants rather than synthetic ingredients. She says this has lots of uses, “For example, it can really enhance quality of life and improve wellbeing, helping with sleep, regulating blood flow, headaches, mood and anxiety, sleep and more.”

There are two types of bio-identical HRT: regulated/ licensed bio-identical HRT and non-regulated/nonlicensed bio-identical HRT. Licensed bio-identical HRT are standard medications authorised by regulators and available on the NHS. Compounded and non-licensed bio-identical HRT on the other hand, are personalised following a prescription that is based on the individual patient’s diagnosis, symptoms and blood hormone levels.

Know your treatment options

The compounded type is not endorsed by the British Menopause Society or the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as they believe it doesn’t have sufficient evidence for effectiveness and safety and because the regulated options are available.

However, Dr Lakhani uses both, explaining, “I prefer to prescribe the licensed hormones, but because these are fixed doses of hormones, in my opinion sometimes it suits patients’ needs better to have more bespoke and tailored hormones.”

Much like aesthetic treatments such as dermal fillers, Dr Lakhani warns that compounding bio-identical HRT therapy isn’t regulated. She advises, “Patients need to choose their practitioner wisely. When looking for a practitioner, patients should ensure they are a medically-qualified prescriber. I recommend patients go to someone with an interest and experience in women’s health, such as a gynaecologist, or a GP with a Diploma from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.”

There are various treatment options available to help those struggling with the menopause. Some of these include in-clinic aesthetic treatments to help intimate concerns, while supplements, growth factor formulations, meditation and mindfulness exercises may also help with other symptoms.

“In my opinion, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the best way to help alleviate general symptoms and get women’s lives back on track,” says Dr Lakhani, adding, “The challenge is that, in the past, HRT has had a lot of bad press regarding its

Dr Lakhani also recommends patients use hormones that come from a reputable pharmacy. “Some practitioners mix hormones in the back room and this isn’t the way to go! You should ensure they are sourced from a reputable pharmacy that your practitioner trusts. It’s also important to know that people may experience worsening of menopausal symptoms as a side effect until they get used to the hormones,” she explains.

Menopause isn’t a disease, nor is it something that should cause fear, reiterates Dr Lakhani, but it can

Dr Shirin Lakhani

the perimenopause stage, women have low mood and anxiety, and these symptoms are associated with depression so antidepressants may help.”

However, she says that it’s very common for the symptoms of the menopause to be misdiagnosed as depression. “For these patients, ultimately antidepressants won’t be the answer and instead they just struggle with the side effects of the medication.

It’s my belief that patients benefit more from other treatments because these can help the core issues, rather than putting a plaster over the symptoms," she explains.

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Patient perspective 55-year-old Carol suffered from a plethora of menopausal symptoms including mood swings, hot flushes, insomnia and debilitating genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) where thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls persists. The pain associated with this had ended intimacy with her husband, pushed her to cancel her gym membership and, at its worst, left her struggling to walk. She became distant from friends and family and dreaded going to work in her job as a civil servant, fearing that she would experience a hot flush. Incredibly unhappy and in pain, she visited her GP who advised against hormone replacement therapy and instead suggested antidepressants.

However, this didn’t help so she sought advice from Dr Lakhani, who suggested BHRT to address the hormone imbalance that was causing the majority of the symptoms. She also had a radiofrequency vaginal tightening treatment with the Ultra Femme 360 device to address the atrophy.

A few months later, Carol's menopausal symptoms improved dramatically, helping her get her life back.

To encourage other women to seek alternative treatment to antidepressants, she reflects, “Most of my menopause symptoms have disappeared or improved dramatically and I want to urge other women like myself not to continue suffering in silence. If you feel like you’ve got nowhere to turn don’t give up. I’m proof that no matter how bad your menopause symptoms are, it doesn’t need to end with antidepressants – there is hope.”

Vaginal treatment alternatives Dr Lakhani’s recommended aesthetic-clinic based treatments to help menopausal symptoms in the vaginal area Prices may vary at different clinics.

Ultra Femme 360 A radiofrequency treatment to help menopausal symptoms presenting in the vaginal area. It aims to tighten the vaginal opening, canal perineum and improve sensitivity to the clitoris, as well as decrease stress incontinence and strengthen the vaginal muscles.

Price: from £600 per session

Emsella chair A high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) treatment that aims to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and give patients back control of their bladder to improve the symptoms of incontinence. It causes muscles to contract and release like pelvic floor exercises, but the muscles are given a workout equivalent to 11,000 exercises per treatment session!

Price: from £300 per session

Desirial Plus A hyaluronic acid dermal filler treatment that is injected in the intimate area to help restore natural volume loss due to ageing. It also aims to help women suffering from vaginal dryness, vaginal discomfort, chronic irritations to the intimate area and pain during sexual intercourse.

Price: from £600

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) PRP therapy is a treatment in which a small amount of a person’s blood is taken, processed, and then injected back into their body in order to stimulate healing and regeneration. Known commonly by the brand name The O Shot, it can help to decrease or resolve urinary incontinence in some female patients.

Price: around £1,200

WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

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WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF PHOTOGRAPHY: VISIBLE BY HANNAH

cause untold misery. She says, “Women just need to know that they are now lucky to have so many innovative treatments and effective medical interventions available to us so needn’t spend this chapter of their lives in pain or despair. With 13 million women in the UK suffering with the menopause, we deserve better, don’t we?”

PSYCHOLOGY

REAL-LIFE STORY

CHIN UP!

How a subtle dermal filler chin enhancement can improve self-esteem and confidence

Every feature of the face has an element that contributes to one’s unique beauty and attractiveness. Although the chin is an area that isn’t often looked at in detail, a chin that has a nice angle, is well-defined and balanced can help to improve a person’s overall facial attractiveness.

For 36-year-old Holly, her chin was causing her to be selfconscious about the way she looked. “When I could see that my chin was slightly out of proportion from the rest of my face and it didn’t really fit; it was smaller and set back,” she explains, adding, “It just made my whole face look off balance and there are a few pictures where I’ve been caught from a side angle and I thought, gosh is that what I look like?”

After chatting about her concerns with her sister, who works in the aesthetics specialty, Holly learnt that the appearance of her chin could possibly be improved with cosmetic surgery or dermal fillers, so she sought advice from aesthetic practitioner Dr Raul Cetto.

Chin augmentation with fillers When Holly told Dr Cetto about her concerns, she was relieved that he understood. She says, “He explained that I was right in the fact that my chin was out of proportion, before detailing what the proportions should be to create more balance in my face.” He described an imaginary line called the meridian that you can draw from your forehead to your chin. To achieve facial harmony and balance to the profile of the face, the chin should be at most 2mm from this line, Dr Cetto explained. “Having this described to me really helped because I was able to understand the causes and how they could be addressed,” Holly reflects.

As Holly wasn’t interested in invasive cosmetic surgery, Dr Cetto suggested that a dermal filler treatment would be a good approach as it could improve the projection of the chin and bring subtle harmony to the face with minimal downtime.

“Dr Cetto explained clearly what he could do and why it would have an impact. He also told me what the 22

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results would be like and the possible side effects and complications that could occur, so I felt I knew exactly what to expect after the treatment,” Holly explains.

He also told her about his choice of products. “Dr Cetto said he would be using the Teosyal range of dermal fillers with a layering technique, which would help ensure I got natural results and didn’t end up with a ‘stiff’ look.” Dr Cetto uses this technique because the face has different layers of bone, muscle, fat and skin, which all have unique biomechanical characteristics. Different dermal filler products are therefore needed to replicate the different mechanics of the layers that the product will be injected into.

Dr Cetto first injected Teosyal Ultra Deep into the chin using a needle. He then pricked the skin so that he could use the hole as an entry point to slide in a cannula (a long, blunted needle). This instrument is ideal for helping to minimise bruising and it also has a lower chance of causing one of the most serious dermal filler complications, vascular occlusions (learn more on p.28). From there, Dr Cetto injected another dermal filler called Teosyal RHA 4 in the layer

"When I looked at myself after the treatment, I thought the results were fantastic! My whole face looked in better proportion and my features were in harmony with each other"

REAL-LIFE STORY

Before

After

Before

After

Before and after chin augmentation treatment showing subtle increased projection of the chin and jawline for a more balanced profile. Patient treated by Dr Raul Cetto and image taken by Surface Imaging Solutions and Canfield VECTRA H2.

A balanced result

"This small treatment has given me that extra boost of confidence, and really improved an area I didn’t like so I can hold my head a little higher, and really feel better about myself" above the previous injection. Holly notes, “There was a bit of discomfort, but it wasn’t painful. Dr Cetto worked in stages and talked me through the whole thing, explaining what he was going to do and checking that I was feeling okay, which was really helpful.” The whole procedure took under 30 minutes.

Holly says, “When I looked at myself after the treatment, I thought the results were fantastic! My whole face looked in better proportion and my features were in harmony with each other.” She continues, “It’s very subtle and is really only obvious when you see the before and after pictures, which I like because I didn’t want to look like a different person. This is a really good ‘tweakment’ that has made such a big difference to how I feel and look!”

Holly says that she would not think twice about getting dermal fillers in the chin area again. “Generally, this small treatment has given me that extra boost of confidence, and has really improved an area I didn’t like, so I can hold my head a little higher, and really feel better about myself. It’s just the small things that can really make a difference about how you feel day to day, and I feel far more confident in pictures now,” she notes.

The treatment will last 16-18 months, but Dr Cetto will ideally see Holly again in a year for another assessment and see how her results have developed. The price of a treatment like Holly’s is between £800-1,200 at Dr Cetto’s clinic.

Practitioner perspective their side profiles in photographs.

Holly’s case was particularly interesting because by layering only a total of 1.4ml of the two different dermal fillers, we were able to achieve a lot of projection, and her chin is now actually a huge 3cm more forward than what it was! This layering approach also helps the product to behave as naturally as possible when you move, creating subtle results that patients like Holly love.

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WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

Dr Raul Cetto, aesthetic practitioner, Clinic 1.6, London IG: @drcetto

Where surgical implants were once the only option for someone like Holly, chin augmentation using dermal fillers is now a good non-surgical and non-invasive option for people to consider, with minimal downtime.

The chin can have a big impact on how the rest of the face presents itself, making a nose look bigger or the face out of proportion, for example. It’s becoming a more popular treatment due to people wanting to improve

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Getting The Pregnancy Glow!

Editor Chloé Gronow seeks advice on managing skin changes while expecting

Where’s my glow?!

I’ve always suffered with my skin. Some concerns have occurred out of my control – acne breakouts as a teenager and hormonal spots as an adult have been frustrating. Others have definitely been my own fault – laying in the sun too long without adequate sunscreen, along with, I’m ashamed to say, lots of sunbed use in my early twenties, has led to obvious sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

Since I began working in aesthetics seven years ago, however, my understanding and approach to skincare has improved significantly. I am guilty of switching between brands probably too regularly but, hey, perks of the job are lots of exciting freebies that I can’t wait to try! Other than that, I stick to a good routine of cleansing morning and evening, using a vitamin C serum for antioxidant protection in the daytime and a light vitamin A in the evening to keep wrinkles at bay. Of course, SPF is now essential, and I never use anything less than factor 30!

As a result, despite a few easily manageable spots the week before my period is due each month, my skin has been in pretty decent condition for the past few years. That was until I got pregnant.

Those pre-period spots stuck around and were one of the first signs that I may be expecting a baby. Over the next few months, my skin continued to suffer with more spots, redness, dryness and pigmentation making an appearance.

At the time of writing, I’m 34 weeks pregnant and still awaiting that longed-for ‘pregnancy glow’! So, I’ve sought the advice of Julie Scott – an aesthetic nurse prescriber with lots of experience in treating female skin. Thinking I’m probably not the only one suffering from skin changes during pregnancy, I’ve shared nurse Scott’s advice for you here too…

Julie Scott, aesthetic nurse prescriber, Facial Aesthetics, Essex IG: @facial_aesthetics

“First of all, I think the term ‘pregnancy glow’ is a little bit of a myth,” reassures nurse Scott, explaining, “You’ve actually got lots of things stacked against you so it’s unlikely you will have amazing skin during pregnancy.” She notes that when a pregnant patient comes to her clinic with skin complaints, the first thing she does is explain exactly why this may be. The main cause is an increase in oestrogen and progesterone production.

This rise in hormones can exacerbate any pre-existing conditions, while also contributing to new concerns. Of course, nurse Scott says this new combination of hormones may result in a ‘glow’ for some, but generally most people will experience the more negative side effects.

Nurse Scott explains that treatment will be challenging as there’s not a lot of evidence supporting the safety of the products normally used specifically in pregnancy.

She says, “Because we can’t test on unborn babies, most pharmaceutical companies take a blanket approach that you can’t use their products during pregnancy. It’s not necessarily that they will cause harm, there’s just no evidence to say that they won’t, so it’s best to steer clear.”

That said, there are things that can help, which nurse Scott outlines here… beyondbeauty.co.uk

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Concerns and treatment approaches Acne Why does it occur?

Progesterone is linked to increased oil production, which we know leads to acne and spot formation. People who’ve never had breakouts or been susceptible to them before may find they get spotty during pregnancy, and those with existing oily-skin concerns will find that their acne is exacerbated.

Treatment tips The first thing to note is that people who become pregnant and suffer from pre-existing acne will have to stop and work out whether they can still use the products they’ve been using.

The main ingredient to avoid is vitamin A, which comes in various forms such as retinol, retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate. Used in hard-hitting acne drugs such as isotretinoin and tazarotene, the powerful ingredient can lead to birth defects so is a big no-no during pregnancy.

Next, many cleansers, peels and spot creams will contain salicylic or beta-hydroxy acids, which again are usually really effective at treating acne. However as these are systemic treatments – meaning they can enter the bloodstream – they are ruled out as there is a risk of them getting into the uterus or breast milk.

While, unfortunately, there are a lot of effective ingredients we can’t use, all is not lost.

Instead, an expectant mother can use products containing azelaic acid which helps kill bacteria and create an even skin tone.

Citric acid will help exfoliate the skin, while lactic acid will have a similar effect. I would also suggest using sulphur or charcoalbased masks. While these won’t resolve acne, they will reduce oil production and thus improve the skin's appearance.

An expectant mother should also consider using oil-free moisturisers and sunscreens – try mineral-based SPF instead – to eliminate anything that may be adding to the acne problem. While the ingredients mentioned won’t be as proactive as others, they’re better than using nothing at all!

Melasma Why does it occur?

The increase in progesterone seen in pregnant women is linked with the production of melanocytes. In simple terms, melanocytes are the cells that are responsible for the pigment (colour) in your skin. When you’re pregnant, production of them is accelerated so you’re more susceptible to patches of skin darkening known as hyperpigmentation and melasma, even if you have dark skin.

Hyperpigmentation usually appears as a result of trauma to the skin or sun exposure and is seen in isolated spots across the face and body. Melasma, on the other hand, is more common in pregnancy – often referred to as the ‘mask of pregnancy’ – and is generally spread across certain areas such as the forehead or cheeks. It’s sometimes noticeable across the top lip too.

Treatment tips Again, there’s a lot that we would usually use that we can’t during pregnancy! As with acne, various formations of vitamin A are popular ingredients to tackle pigment concerns and are now all off the table.

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You should also avoid hydroquinone, which is usually used to lighten dark patches of skin.

So, with melasma, rather than being able to reduce its appearance, the best thing we can do is manage it, to ensure it it doesn’t get worse.

And to do this, we just need plenty of SPF. Remember, particularly during the summer, your SPF is not going to last all day, so you need to apply it at least three or four times! If your skin is quite dry and you need the extra hydration, the iS Clinical Eclipse SPF 50+ is excellent and suitable to use during pregnancy.

While most people are good at putting SPF on first thing in the morning before their makeup, they often don’t want to add anything cream-like afterwards. So, I recommend a mineral-based powder SPF that won’t wipe off your makeup. There are lots out there, but my favourite is ZO Sunscreen + Powder Broad Spectrum SPF. I’d also recommend introducing vitamin C into your routine to help brighten the skin. Be aware, though, some vitamin C serums include salicylic acid so should be avoided during pregnancy. I would recommend trying GENEXC by iS Clinical.

Melasma can be frustrating, but I remind my patients that it will reduce once you’ve stopped breastfeeding and your aesthetic practitioner can come in afterwards and mop up what you have left!

Redness and dryness Why do they occur?

Redness and dryness usually occur as a result of a parched barrier function, which is usually responsible for protecting your body’s water balance. All the hydration that usually enhances the appearance of your skin is now going to the baby, so your skin is looking thirsty!

In some people the dryness can lead to atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, which can be really itchy and uncomfortable. Psoriasis can also develop or worsen, causing red, flaky patches of skin.

For others, rosacea will present. This consists of redness usually across the nose and cheeks and is as a result of the increased blood to the area. As it’s an inflammatory condition, when the skin becomes dry and dehydrated, it can be exacerbated. Frustratingly, rosacea can also involve the occurrence of small pustules known as acne vulgaris rosacea. Blood flow has been reported to increase by 40% during pregnancy, so it’s no wonder there’s so much change to our skin’s appearance!

Treatment tips In patients who have dry or red skin, we would normally tackle this with vitamin A as it stimulates healing. Unfortunately, as mentioned earlier, vitamin A is to be avoided during pregnancy!

I would instead advise picking ingredients that have hyaluronic acid in them because the acid will attract any water found in the skin to lock in as much moisture as it can. Also consider using products that contain ceramides as they will hydrate the skin. And if someone’s more spot-prone, they’re not going to feel heavy on the skin.

They may sound a bit basic, but cooling mists can also help. If you spritz throughout the day, you can keep skin cool and hydrated, stopping any redness or dryness from worsening. The iS Clinical Copper Firming Mist would be my top recommendation.

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Skin tags Why do they occur?

While pregnant you may notice the appearance of skin tags – small growths of tissue that stick out beyond the surface of the skin – particularly on the neck! Again, these are caused by accelerated hormones and can be more common in those with a family history or if you have gained significant weight during pregnancy.

Skin tags are usually completely harmless, but if they catch on clothing or just don’t look that pleasant then you may want to remove them.

Having these recommendations from nurse Scott has been reassuring and, like she says, “Your skin is going to be different; it’s going to throw everything at you, and you’ll experience new things you’ve never encountered – just like having a baby! The key is to understand what to avoid and what is accessible to you; suck it up and we can hit any existing concerns hard when you cease breastfeeding. Remember, baby always comes first!”

Treatment tips Once you have a skin tag, you’ve usually got it for life unless you catch it on something and it comes off. Sometimes they can go really flat, but they are there to stay and can grow.

Not to worry, though, skin tags can easily be removed with something called cryotherapy – where we would freeze them off – or cauterisation – where we cut them off. Again, it’s advised to wait until after you’ve finished breastfeeding for this, and we would never advocate removing them yourself!

Next steps

“Skin changes during pregnancy can be quite upsetting for some, but remember that most are temporary,” says nurse Scott. I can relate to this – as grateful and excited as I am to be expecting a baby, some of the bodily changes that come with being pregnant have been a bit of a shock to say the least! Along with the increased hormones sending your emotions into overdrive, it can be frustrating that you can’t control something that’s been pretty controllable for most of your life.

My diagnosis and treatment plan

“I can see you’ve got congestion under your skin as it’s uneven, which is likely caused by increased oil production. This adds to the appearance of melasma, which is present across your forehead,” she explains, adding that the redness was expected thanks to my increased blood flow!

So, what products to use? Nurse Scott recommends:

WORDS: CHLOÉ GRONOW PHOTOGRAPHY: VISIBLE BY HANNAH

While usually an in-person consultation with the use of a skin-imaging device would be recommended, due to the pandemic nurse Scott reviewed photographs of my skin to advise what may help while I’m still pregnant and breastfeeding.

“With your skin there’s a few things going on – a real mixture,” she clarifies, adding that she thought I had genetically oily skin. While I’d explained my concerns over redness and pigmentation – clear from the images I sent – I was surprised that nurse Scott noted I also had an issue with oiliness as I hadn’t previously outlined this to her. This was reassuring that she knew what she was talking about and we were on the right track!

iS Clinical Cream Cleanser: the ahnfeltia concinna extract will help clear pores and reduce congestion.

GENEXC vitamin C serum from iS Clinical: will brighten skin to improve the appearance of melasma, while also offering antioxidant protection.

ZO Sunscreen + Powder Broad Spectrum SPF: the minerals will help calm the redness as well as provide general sun protection and reduce the chance of exacerbating melasma.

A clay or sulphur mask: to be used two or three times a week, the mask will minimise oiliness without drying out the skin.

NOTE: this is a personalised recommendation and readers are

Images sent to nurse Scott to assess my skin. During pregnancy I’ve suffered from increased redness, acne breakouts and melasma.

encouraged to see an aesthetic practitioner to determine the best products for their individual skin concerns.

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ASK THE EXPERT

Know The Risks!

What you need to know about the dangers of a vascular occlusion following dermal fillers and how you can keep yourself safe

D

ermal fillers can be extremely safe and effective treatments in the right hands.

They can help to lift and smooth lines, replace volume loss and enhance and beautify certain areas of the face and body. However, the injectable gel can also cause side effects.

We’re sure you’ve seen the most dangerous dermal filler side effect commonly covered in the media – a vascular occlusion (VO). Although the majority of dermal filler treatments performed by a skilled and highly trained medical practitioner do not have complications, it’s important to be aware of this risk before having the treatment.

To get the lowdown on the risks of VOs following dermal filler treatments and to find out what you can do to help prevent this happening to you, we spoke to Dr Martyn King, chair of the Aesthetic Complications Expert (ACE) Group World, an association that aims to diagnose, manage and prevent complications in aesthetic medicine.

What is a vascular occlusion?

Dr Martyn King, aesthetic practitioner, Cosmedic Skin Clinic, Tamworth IG: @cosmedic_clinic

Vascular occlusion refers to the blockage of a blood vessel, which stops blood from being able to travel. There are two types of VO: partial – when some blood is able to pass through the vessel – or complete – where the vessel is completely clogged resulting in the absence of blood flow.

If the blood supply to the skin and surrounding tissue is impaired in any way, the result is a lack of oxygen and other essential nutrients to the area.

This may severely impact the health of your cells and may lead to death of the tissue (necrosis), ulceration, infection and permanent scarring. This is why a VO can cause a very distressing appearance for patients as well as pain and other signs and symptoms. In the rarest occurrence, a VO may even pass into the blood vessels supplying the eye resulting in vision disturbance and even blindness!

How a blood vessel can become blocked due to dermal fillers

Normal blood flow

Partial blocked vessel due to dermal filler

Complete blocked vessel due to direct dermal filler placement

How is a vascular occlusion caused?

A foreign substance such as an injectable dermal filler may block a blood vessel by being injected directly into it. Dermal filler can also cause a VO if it is injected very close to the wall of the blood vessel, compressing or ‘kinking’ it (check out the image).

Although VOs might occur precisely where the dermal filler is injected, they can also happen at a different location as the filler can travel along the blood vessel where it will eventually reach a narrower point and get stuck – this is known as embolisation.

How common are vascular occlusions?

Thankfully, VOs are a rare complication of dermal filler treatments, with an incidence of 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 treatments (0.001% to 0.01% risk). However, due to the increasing number of treatments being performed in the UK, the ACE Group World help to manage two to three cases of VO each week. Most of these are reported to have been caused by non-medical professionals. Indeed, out of 28

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Complete blocked vessel - dermal filler compression

ASK THE EXPERT

Think you have a vascular occlusion? Here’s what to do…

616 complaints regarding dermal fillers to an independent accreditation body, 83% of the treatments reported were carried out by beauticians, hairdressers and lay people (someone who is not qualified in a given profession).

What are the symptoms of a vascular occlusion?

An experienced and competent medical practitioner will normally spot the signs and symptoms of a VO immediately. If a VO is not successfully treated, the skin can become discoloured, bumpy, ulcerated, sloughy and black.

The common symptoms of a VO are: • Blanching: The skin may become white in appearance in a reticulated (net-like) fashion following the course of the skin supplied by the blood vessel. In darker skin types, blanching is more difficult to spot but there will still be a change in colour in a characteristic pattern. Additional signs and symptoms of a VO may need to be relied on more for skin of colour.

• Pain: It is normal to experience some pain or discomfort, but severe pain should alert the practitioner to a potential complication.

• Purple skin colour: Often the skin will appear dusky or purple in colour and may be cool to the touch. This shouldn’t be confused with bruising, which is a common and harmless side effect.

• Capillary refill: The capillary refill time (the amount of time it takes the skin colour to return to normal after applying pressure for three seconds) is often delayed.

How do practitioners avoid vascular occlusion?

How is a vascular occlusion treated?

The most important aspect of treating a VO is to first correctly diagnose this complication. If your practitioner is unsure of the diagnosis, they may contact another practitioner to seek advice.

If the practitioner notices any skin changes, sometimes by stopping the treatment, massaging and applying heat, a VO may be avoided. But they may need to proceed to remove the dermal filler to unblock the vessel by injecting an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This can dissolve the most common type of dermal filler in the UK – hyaluronic acid. Depending on the severity of the complication, your practitioner may also advocate the use of heat, massage, aspirin, oxygen therapy, antibiotics, and wound management techniques. Of course, if there is any vision disturbance, this requires emergency admission to an eye hospital.

Should the chance of a VO stop you getting treatment?

As with any medical procedure, it’s important you are educated so you can weigh up the pros and cons of any treatment and understand the risks.

If you are considering treatment, you should ask how your practitioner reduces the risk and how they would manage this complication if it were to happen. You should only seek treatment from a medically qualified practitioner who is regulated with their professional body such as the General Medical Council, Nursing and Midwifery Council and the General Dental Council. They should also work in a suitable clinical environment, such as a medical aesthetic clinic, where there are drugs and equipment in place to deal with a VO, should it occur.

Although rare, the risk of a VO is something that is significant and should be discussed during your consultation. If your practitioner doesn’t mention this, or just breezes over it, then this should raise alarm bells!

The majority of dermal filler treatments provide satisfactory results without any issues, but sometimes things can go wrong. Always research your practitioner and be absolutely confident they have the training and ability to avoid and manage any complication so you can be sure that you are in safe hands. beyondbeauty.co.uk

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INTERVIEW: SHANNON KILGARIFF

There is a lot that practitioners do to avoid the terrible threat of VO. A highly skilled, reputable and registered medical practitioner who has extensive training and experience will have a lower risk of causing a VO as they will have a thorough understanding of the anatomy and blood supply and know where the ‘danger areas’ are. They will also implement strategies and techniques to lower your chances.

You should know that there are certain factors that make you higher risk of a VO, such as if you have had surgery in the area before, as surgery may change the location of your vessels. Your practitioner should perform an in-depth consultation to ensure you are not at higher risk.

Certain injectable products also have a greater inherent risk. Your practitioner should be choosing reputable dermal fillers that have passed rigorous safety tests with multiple case studies of successful results.

If you are experiencing significant pain or changes in the colour or appearance of your skin following a soft tissue filler treatment, you should seek immediate advice from your treating practitioner.

Remember it could likely be a bruise, but if you are unsure, it’s always a good idea to check. A respected medical practitioner should provide you with aftercare advice, or a leaflet following your treatment which should have an emergency contact number on it. Do call this if you suspect you have had a complication, such as a VO. You may initially have a phone or video call, but this is not a substitute for a face-to-face review, and you should request this if they do not offer this to you. If you can’t get hold of your treating practitioner, or you don’t feel they are taking your concerns seriously, don’t be afraid to get a second opinion from another aesthetic practitioner near you.

A VO is time-critical, and the earlier it is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.

AN ATO M Y FO CUS

How Will You Age? Discover how the area around your lips will change with age and what can be done to help!

Dr Emma Ravichandran, clinical director, Clinetix, Glasgow and Aberdeen IG: @clinetix

HOW DOES THE LIP (PERIORAL) AREA AGE? We all lose collagen as part of the natural ageing process, which causes many changes to the area around your mouth. Collagen makes up 70% of the skin’s proteins, and from our twenties levels deplete by about 1% every year! This affects your skin and overall volume of the lips and they deflate.

The amount of UV light that we’re exposed to is another factor, which causes pigmentation as well as volume loss over time. Smoking can dramatically accelerate the signs of ageing in this region because of the direct heat and chemical damage. Repeated pursing movements of the lips as you smoke causes lines over time. This is why vapes won’t help! Finally, anything that causes excessive inflammation within the tissues – stress, poor diet, not drinking enough water, and external pollution – can cause ageing, as this accelerates collagen loss. You should also take good care of your teeth, because losing tooth support ages you and can have a negative impact on the way your mouth looks – so, don’t skip your next trip to the dentist!

HOW CAN WE SLOW LIP AGEING? The first thing is to be aware and educated about what causes ageing and start thinking about how you can negate the damage. We need to use sunscreen, not only on the skin but on the lips themselves. Although we ideally say this should be done from a young age, it’s never too late to start the routine of daily SPF, and it’s essential for keeping our lips protected from UV damage. We also need to try and reduce stress in our lives, have a balanced diet with lots of antioxidantenriched foods, and consider taking collagen supplements. This will give you the foundation elements for rebuilding skin collagen! You also need to ensure you’re keeping your skin hydrated in order to help it function well.

HOW CAN WE REDUCE THE APPEARANCE OF AGEING LIPS? At home, you can perform plenty of lip nourishing treatments such as applying masks or balms to ensure you’re keeping them hydrated. You can also seek the advice of a medical practitioner to get access to prescriptive medical treatments, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help accelerate the skin turnover.

Medically trained and registered aesthetic practitioners will be able to assess and advise on the at-home topical skincare or in-clinic treatments available for you to tighten the skin, replace lost volume and rejuvenate the lip area.

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AN ATO M Y FO CUS

Perioral Anatomy & Treatments

6 1

Cupid’s bow flattening Loss of volume and shape Treatment: Dermal fillers for volume replacement and reshaping

2.

Cutaneous upper lip lengthening The top lip elongates, leading to less tooth show Treatment: Dermal fillers in combination with skin tightening energy treatments, or a surgical lip lift

3.

Volume loss in lip body Flattening or loss of projection and shape in the lip Treatment: Volumisation using dermal fillers

4.

Vermilion border weakness Loss of definition in the lip border Treatment: Dermal filler into the border of the lip to create a crisper edge

5.

Vertical lip rhytids Wrinkles known as barcode or smoker’s lines often caused by smoking, vaping or sun damage Treatment: Topical or energy-based skin treatments in combination with dermal fillers and botulinum toxin

6.

Flattening of the philtrum column The two vertical pillars between the nose and the lip become flat Treatment: Dermal filler to restructure

7.

Oral commissure Downturning of the lip corners Treatment: Cheek fillers to lift corners, botulinum toxin to relax the down-pulling muscles and dermal fillers

8.

Nasolabial folds Deep lines develop from the nose to mouth Treatment: Dermal filler for direct filling or cheek fillers to provide a lift

9.

Marionette lines Lines that run from the corners of the mouth down to the chin Treatment: Dermal filler

8

5 2

3

1.

7 4 9

INTERVIEW: HOLLY CARVER

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Your Go-To Event For Cosmetic Surgery, Aesthetic Beauty And Beyond Beyond Beauty Live will be the first event of its kind connecting you to the world of medical aesthetics. Taking place on 7 & 8 May 2022, the event will allow you to discover new products and treatments, watch live demonstrations, and find out about the hottest technology and trends. This two-day event will empower you to make safe and ethical choices to finalise your all-important decision of choosing the right treatment for you.

Check out some of the brands you could meet at Beyond Beauty Live

Church Pharmacy Antiageing's triple threat PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum provides instant and long-lasting hydration whilst encouraging the skin's natural hyaluronic acid production to reduce fine lines. It leaves the skin dewy, radiant and plump in seconds.

AestheticSource As Skin Fitness™ experts AestheticSource are the UK and Ireland supplier of a comprehensive portfolio of award-winning clinically proven products.

Clinisoothe Clinisoothe+ Skin Purifier delivers 7 benefits in 1 incredible product to bring your skin back to optimum health. Banishes spots, breakouts, redness and irritation and leaves the skin soothed and calm. The new skin hero for the face and body.

InMode InBody HydraFacial Only HydraFacial uses patented technology to cleanse, extract, and hydrate. HydraFacial super serums are made with nourishing ingredients that create an instantly gratifying glow with no downtime – suitable for all skin types and personalised to address all skincare needs.

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InBody are global leaders in body composition analysis, providing accurate and reliable body composition results. Their devices can accurately measure your body fat, muscle mass and height so there is no more guesswork! Ask the team about the InBody Dial, InBody Push and InBody BpBio170 devices!

InMode – known for innovation, safety and efficacy within the medical aesthetics industry – is the company behind the celebrity favourite Morpheus8 radiofrequency microneedling for the face and body. Recently launched are the Evoke and Evolve platforms for facial and body contouring (radiofrequency for fat reduction, skin tightening and electrical muscle stimulation).

Medical Up

Sciton

Sebbin

Re-Collagen/Medical Up is the new generation collagen. 100% plant based it provides a complex of amino acids for the neoformation of collagen. Boosted with hyaluronic acid, vitamins C&E, silica and MSM it is the perfect supplement for improved hair, skin and nails.

Best in class skin rejuvenation treatments BBL HERO, MOXI and HALO. Sciton is worldfamous for luxury skin treatments like BBL HERO, MOXI, and HALO. Patients can expect to turn back the hands of time to erase blemishes and wrinkles, improve skin tone and achieve more healthy and youthful skin from head to toe.

For 35 years, Sebbin offers various types of breast implants to respond to every patient’s needs. This year, our Integrity range celebrates its 5th anniversary! Why choose Integrity?

• 1 base, 4 projections, to simplify your choice.

• A semi-smooth surface designed for an easy insertion & minimal scar.

• EverlastGel, a cohesive shape-memory gel.

Solta Medical Thermage FLX® is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency technology to tighten and smooth the skin on the face, under eyes, eyelids and body, with visible results in a single session and little to no downtime.

Teoxane Teoxane Laboratories have one intention: to expand the possibilities of hyaluronic acid, through the means of scientific advancement.

Teoxane has developed and formulated a range of innovative hyaluronic acid solutions, including dermal filler injectables and a full cosmeceutical portfolio.

Totally Derma

WOW Facial

Venus Concept

Zemits

Totally Derma® improves the firmness, volume and elasticity of the skin, as well as improving hydration and smoothness.

Hair and nails become stronger and look noticeably healthier.

Gut health is improved and the body’s natural free radical defence mechanisms is increased. Stiff joints become more flexible and comfortable.

WOW Facial® is a UK multiaward winning brand. It's a six step hyper-personalised facial a high quality treatment that delivers immediate results which continue to improve the skin’s health over time. Each stage is personalised to suit your skin condition ensuring you get the best outcome from your medical facial.

Non-invasive Venus Bliss™ fat treatment options by Venus Concept offer patients a comfortable, and effective solution for localised fat reduction.

Results look natural, and are seen in as little as one treatment, with continued improvement for up to six months, with no downtime!

Zemits Lillie NG is a fullfeature facial system and inspires confidence in skin rejuvenation. The system provides a healthy and youthful glow, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin tone, sagging and firmness, whilst offering deep hydration to boost skin renewal. beyondbeauty.co.uk

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shhh... a secret is no fun unless it’s shared...

Are you ready to unlock the secret to beautiful glowing skin?

Take your skincare to the next level with a facial that is designed for you!

The WOW facial ® is the original 6-stage, hyper-personalised facial which uses various active ingredients to improve a multitude of skin issues.

Find your WOW at: wowfacial.co.uk/the-official-wow-facial-list Stage 1 Cleanse and Prep Stage 2 Choice of 4 Peel and Treat solutions Stage 3 WOW fusion® microneedling with bespoke solutions Stage 4 LED light therapy Stage 5 The Mask by WOW facial® Stage 6 Finish and Protect.

It’s no secret that your skin will be left healthy, glowing and luminous.

Are you ready to WOW? Available at clinics nationwide.

WOW retail products available from:

www.shop.wowfacial.co.uk FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM

@ WOWFACIAL

#AreyoureadytoWOW

EX CLUS I VE INSIGH T

TV Transformations and Mindset Manifestations Meet Cherry Healey – the star presenter of 10 Years Younger in 10 Days

B

ack in the noughties, UK-based makeover shows were all over our television screens.

Trinny and Susannah were telling us what not to wear, Gok Wan was making us look good naked and a group of experts were doing everything they could to get us appearing 10 years younger.

While incredibly successful throughout the decade, certain episodes would draw criticism for a sometimes harsh assessment of participants’ appearances. 10 Years Younger, which originally aired on Channel 4, also got a fair amount of negative press for its coverage of cosmetic surgery procedures.

By 2009 the show was off air, with other British transformation TV programmes coming to an end around the same time.

Now, however, a number of TV programmes are getting a reboot with a more sensitive and considerate approach. With a new name and host, 10 Years Younger in 10 Days relaunched in 2020 on Channel 5 and was back for its second series earlier this year, fronted by Cherry Healey.

The 40-year-old TV presenter and mum of two has built a successful career fronting thought-provoking BBC Three documentaries focused on pregnancy, drinking, dating and money, as well as co-hosting the hugely popular Inside the Factory on BBC Two. She also runs self-help course Manifest That Sh*t to empower people to create the life they want, while presenting The Hotbed Collective podcast and events – currently on a hiatus – focused on frank and funny conversations around sex and relationships.

While working on 10 Years Younger in 10 days, Cherry has met countless individuals who are unhappy with their appearance and has learnt a lot about non-surgical procedures; a key element of the reboot. Here she speaks to Beyond Beauty about feeling confident as you age and the power of manifestations…

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E XCLUS I VE I N S I GHT

Aesthetics on the tele

What’s 10 Years Younger in 10 Days all about?

In a nutshell, 10 Years Younger in 10 Days is a TV programme where we help people to remember who they are. They’re people who’ve lost their way – they haven’t looked after themselves because they have been busy giving themselves to other people – often carers, nurses and mums. They’ve given love to everyone around them and have forgotten themselves, so we have an amazing team who work to restore people to who they once were.

Compared to the original 10 Years Younger, the reboot has more emphasis on non-surgical treatments as opposed to surgery. What’s the benefit of this?

We wanted the process to be accessible for the people at home watching. Whilst non-surgical procedures and surgery must both be considered very carefully – having botulinum toxin, for example, is very different from a surgical facelift, both in terms of cost and risk. There is a real emphasis on the show on what’s going on both inside and outside – and non-surgical procedures have come a very long way and give amazing results – so we didn’t feel the need to include surgical procedures to help people transform.

Since working on the show, have you found there’s still a stigma around aesthetic treatment?

I think, classically, there has been a real taboo surrounding aesthetic treatments because the industry is very unregulated and we’ve all seen the disaster stories, which can be really scary. We’ve also witnessed a lot of people who’ve spent their hard-earned money and time on treatments without results. My experience of aesthetic procedures is not that. Most people do it really sensibly and having a little treatment can really give them a confidence boost. It doesn’t always have to be extreme – you can be a really lovely, ordinary person, just trying to restore yourself.

How have you seen people’s lives transform as a result of the TV makeovers?

People’s lives absolutely transform on 10 Years Younger in 10 Days. Some participants come to us with almost no teeth and skin that’s been really affected by their lifestyle. They may feel really self-conscious, have also experienced physical or emotional trauma and sometimes they don't even leave the house, impacting almost every area of their life.

We very slowly and gently take participants through a holistic process – we hold their hand really tightly and ensure we look after them both emotionally and physically to allow them to feel as good as they once did.

Our goal is not to change participants – we want them to be true to who they are and just remember who they used to be.

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Cherry-picked advice

What advice would you give to those suffering from the signs of ageing and just feeling old in general?

If you are feeling old or tired it is almost always related to something on both the inside and out. There are lots of ways to restore yourself mentally, but there’s also so many ways you can restore yourself on the outside through a healthy lifestyle, good skincare and maybe some aesthetic treatment. If you decide to go down this route, do your research, see a trained practitioner, invest in good skincare and just enjoy the ride.

How do you take care of your skin?

I think I take care of my skin really well! I try not to drink too much coffee or alcohol, eat healthily, get good sleep and drink lots of water. I love aesthetic procedures but, really, those are the foundations. If you are not getting good enough sleep or drinking lots of water then you’re not doing yourself any favours. Really good skincare and a suitable skin routine will of course definitely help. And SPF! Never forget SPF as it will really help prevent the signs of ageing, as well as protecting your skin from sun damage!

Do you have a favourite skincare brand and why?

I love aesthetic practitioner Dr Sam Bunting’s range – The Dr Sam System – it’s just really no fuss and works well for my skin, particularly the Nightly Serum.

Votary is a beautifully rich brand and the cleanser has changed my skin for the better. Medik8 is also a big favourite of mine, as I’ve found it’s really effective. A couple of products really helped reduce pigmentation on my forehead, so I’d definitely recommend.

Have you had any non-surgical or surgical treatment and is there anything you’d like to try?

I get introduced to so many things on the show and feel like a kid in a sweet shop! I’ve had Botox with Dr Tapan Patel, which I love; I had it done at a time in my life that was perfect for me. I’ve also tried Collagenwave on my face, which uses radiofrequency to tighten skin, and really loved that too!

Next on my list is Morpheus8 – recent winner of Product Innovation of the Year at the Aesthetics Awards – which combines radiofrequency with microneedling for added benefit. Nilam Holmes at Derma Spa recommended I try this!

EX CLUS I VE INSIGH T

What advice would you give someone considering their first aesthetic treatment?

If you approach aesthetic treatment really sensibly, consider how you feel about it emotionally and make sure it’s something you can afford, then I think just go for it – enjoy these things!

As long as you do your research and go to someone qualified, who will treat you brilliantly with the most suitable products, aesthetic treatments are generally safe and can really boost your confidence.

Do you think you can be a feminist and have treatment?

You can 100% be a feminist and have aesthetic treatment! If you can’t, then you could argue that you can’t really have your ears pierced, do your makeup or wear lovely clothes as, in my opinion, treatment is just an extension of things like that. I do think that the new narrative of feminism is that women are allowed to make up their own minds and it’s not our job to question other people’s decisions. You can read more about this subject on p.47.

Focusing your mindset

You’re a big advocate of creating manifestations to achieve your goals. What is manifesting and how do you get started?

I have been manifesting for 15 years and have almost never talked about it because I thought people may think I’m crazy! It’s defined as the practice of thinking aspirational thoughts with the purpose of making them real.

I used to write loads of lists about what I wanted from my work and life, and a boss of mine – who was a real manifesting aficionado – saw them and said that’s not how you do it. He advised that you shouldn’t say ‘I want’, you should talk about it as though it’s happened or will happen. That can be really hard because you feel like an idiot when you’re doing it, but I tried it and, 15 years later, it still works!

How have you benefited from manifesting?

In terms of my career, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, I was flapping around in the wind doing all sorts of bits and bobs

but hadn’t really asked myself what I wanted to achieve. When I started manifesting, I wrote that I wanted to do something creative, which involved people and lots of different subjects, where I could absorb others’ experience of life. I still didn’t know exactly what that meant but knew my dream career would involve these aspects.

About two months later I met someone at a party who told me they were a TV director, and I was like, ‘This is it!’. Thanks to my manifestations, I had the impetus of knowing exactly what I wanted and a career in television fit; who knows if it was fate, God, coincidence or something else, but I jumped on it like a dog eating hot chips!

You’ve now set up manifestation courses to help other people. What do they involve?

Called Manifest That Sh*t, the seven-week courses, held by myself and digital creator Natalie Lee, are a wonderful way to allow people to really think about what they want from their future. Sometimes life gives you very little space to think about whether you’re going in the right direction, so the courses, which involve twice weekly exercises and videos, help you create manifestations focusing not only on the day-to-day, but also your life in the next week, month, year and decade. People are halfway through the first course at the moment and we’ve had amazing feedback so far. There’s nothing more I want in life than to be useful to others, so seeing people make positive changes in their life makes me really happy! The course finished recently, and the feedback has been amazing. We will be launching a new course in September and are hoping to do a retreat as well – we want every woman to feel confident and empowered to ask for what she deserves.

Tell us about your IGTV series Confessionals… what’s it about?

Over lockdown I desperately missed people, so I wanted to create a way to reconnect and have those deep and meaningful chats that I think a lot of us took for granted. They are such an important part of mental health and I think confessing, or offloading, our worries is as important as eating well. So, during the series I interviewed some wonderful people and heard their confession – and the confessions of the wider public which was pretty interesting! We've covered areas such as struggling with alcohol consumption over lockdown, the joyous side of divorce and one of my guests even admitted that she has experienced powerful premonitions since she was a child!

Series 2 is on its way, and if you want to be involved you can email confessionalsofficial@gmail.com with your confession or problem and I'll read it out and hopefully help!

10 Years Younger in 10 Days airs Sundays at 8pm on Channel 5. To find out more about Cherry’s projects follow her on Instagram @cherryhealey

INTERVIEW: CHLOÉ GRONOW

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AWA RD WI N N ERS

20 2 1 ' S BE ST C L I NIC S AN D PR AC T I T IONERS Every year the team behind Beyond Beauty hosts the annual Aesthetics Awards, which applauds and celebrates the achievements and dedication of aesthetic practitioners and clinics across the country over the last year. Take a look at what the winners said after being recognised as the best of the best in medical aesthetics for 2021!

Leading clinics across the UK & Ireland Best Clinic North England Winner: SDS Rejuvenate Medispa Our vision is to stay ahead in our field by embracing new opportunities and being innovative. We will develop and expand whilst maintaining a high level of service and continue to work with other professionals working within our clinics to provide a centre of excellence.

Highly Commended: Dr Sobia Medispa Commended: Lumiere Clinic Finalists: Burgess Hyder Dental Group, Cliniva Medispa, MySkyn Clinic Ltd, Skyn Doctor, VL Aesthetics

The Cynosure Award for Best Clinic Midlands & Wales Winner: Air Aesthetics Air Aesthetics endeavour to be the most trusted and recognised clinic to deliver an exceptional non-surgical aesthetic result and experience in the Midlands. The whole team continuously goes the extra mile – thank you to our loyal patients for their continuing support.

Highly Commended: Freyja Medical Commended: Hampton Clinic Finalists: Outline Clinic, Pure Perfection Clinic, So Aesthetics

The Aesthetic Technology Award for Best Clinic London Winner: Adonia Medical Clinic Our aim is to help our patients reclaim their skin confidence with proven and personalised care.

We understand that each individual person that comes to the clinic is at a different place in their skin journey, so we offer different solutions to match their needs.

Highly Commended: Cadogan Clinic Commended: London Professional Aesthetics Finalists: 111 Harley St., BelleCell, Cavendish Clinic, Dermasurge Clinic, LINIA Skin Clinic 38

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“I aim to provide individually tailored, safe results with the patient at the centre of care. Using my skill and artistic eye, I strive to achieve natural beauty improvements, avoiding the overfilled look” Dr Alexander Parys, Dr Alexander James Aesthetics

AWA RD WI N N ERS

The Intraline Award for Best Clinic South England Winner: Perfect Skin Solutions Our motto is to strive to be better everyday and we apply this to our process of evaluating and enhancing every aspect of the patient journey. We believe in forging long-term relationships with our patients and can only do this by listening to you and ensuring the results are great!

Highly Commended: Vie Aesthetics Commended: S-Thetics & River Aesthetics Finalists: Atelier, Cosmex Clinic, Elite Aesthetics, Health & Aesthetics, Illuminate Skin Clinic, Weston Beauty Clinic Ltd

Best Clinic Ireland Winner: Beyond Skin Beyond Skin is thrilled to have won Best Clinic Ireland at the Aesthetics Awards. We have worked hard to change and adapt our business model ensuring we were able to assist our patients virtually when lockdown restrictions were imposed. We are honoured to be recognised at a national level for the second time.

Highly Commended: Elite Aesthetics Clinic Commended: The Laser and Skin Clinic Finalists: Belfast Skin Clinic, The New You Clinic, Younique Aesthetic Clinic

Best Clinic Scotland Winner: Dermal Clinic

“At my clinic I aim to enhance your happiness by revealing your unique natural beauty, guiding and supporting you on your wellness journey” Dr Uliana Gout, London Aesthetic Medicine

Led by aesthetic nurse prescriber Jackie Partridge, Dermal Clinic is a medical aesthetic clinic based in Edinburgh and Aberdeen.

The team takes patient and staff safety seriously and genuinely care about outstanding results for their patients. The clinic offers a variety of treatments to suit the needs of all patients, from dermal fillers to chemical peels.

Highly Commended: Aesthetic Spirit Rejuvenation Clinic Commended: Renu Skin Clinic Finalists: Clinica Medica, Dr Nestor’s Medical Cosmetic Centre, Smile with Kev

The Relife Award for Best New Clinic UK and Ireland Winner: Hunar Clinic Hunar Clinic aims to provide the highest standard of minimally invasive cosmetic treatments in a safe healthcare environment and to enhance the physical appearance that exceeds expectations. We are delighted the clinic has been recognised!

Highly Commended: PICO Clinic London Commended: Koha Skin Clinic Finalists: Azthetics, Beautox, Finesse Skin Clinic, NassifMD Medical Spa UK, Younique Aesthetics Skin Clinic Ltd., Vitalize Clinic

The Croma Award for Clinic Reception Team Winner: Freyja Medical Your journey with Freyja Medical will always be centred around bringing out the best in you. We don’t use high pressure sales – it’s always just about helping you achieve your goals through detailed planning, expert treatments and meticulous aftercare.

We are thrilled to win!

Highly Commended: Vie Aesthetics Commended: Illuminate Skin Clinic Finalists: Adonia Medical Clinic, Cliniva Medispa, Dr Nestor’s Medical Cosmetic Centre, Dr Sobia Medispa, Hampton Clinic, Health & Aesthetics, Outline Clinic, Perfect Skin Solutions, Younique Aesthetics Clinic beyondbeauty.co.uk

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AWA RD WI N N ERS

Practitioners of the Year The Get Harley Award for Medical Aesthetic Practitioner Winner: Dr Uliana Gout At my clinic, London Aesthetic Medicine, I aim to enhance your happiness by revealing your unique natural beauty, guiding and supporting you on your wellness journey. I am thrilled and incredibly grateful to have won this prestigious prize.

Highly Commended: Dr Sophie Shotter Commended: Miss Sherina Balaratnam Finalists: Dr Nestor Demosthenous, Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, Dr Anna Hemming, Dr Ioannis Liakas, Dr Brian W. McCleary, Dr Devang Patel, Dr Sobia Syed, Dr Rekha Tailor, Dr Vincent Wong

The SpringPharm Award for Nurse Practitioner Winner: Mary White

The InMode Award for Consultant Surgeon Winner: Mrs Sabrina Shah-Desai I have a commitment to excellence and providing evidence-based medical and aesthetic treatments.

I am incredibly honoured to receive this recognition by the aesthetic fraternity. It will continue to motivate me to keep striving for excellence in aesthetic surgery. Thank you Aesthetics Awards!

Highly Commended: Mr Ali Ghanem Commended: Mr Adrian Richards Finalists: Mr Mo Akhavani, Mr Sotirios Foutsizoglou, Mr Dalvi Humzah, Mr Gerard Lambe, Mr Dan Marsh, Miss Rachna Murthy

Summit by Raj Acquilla Award for Rising Star Winner: Dr Alexander Parys

This award is a culmination of years of learning and I see it as the pinnacle of my career. My patients enjoy the benefit of unpressured individual attention. Outline Clinic is family owned and run, which means we have a vested interest in making sure you leave the premises satisfied!

Highly Commended: Cheryl Marshall Williams Commended: Jaqueline Naeini Finalists: Sara Cheeney, Emma Coleman, Jane Laferla, Claudia McGloin, Lisa Niemier, Julie Scott, Lisa Waring, Susan Young

At my clinic, Dr Alexander James Aesthetics, I aim to provide individually tailored, safe results with the patient at the centre of care. Using my skill and artistic eye, I strive to achieve natural beauty improvements, avoiding the overfilled look. This Award means so much!

Highly Commended: Dr Manav Bawa Commended: Alice Henshaw Finalists: Dr Marwa Ali, Dr Zahra Fazal, Dr Jemma Gewargis, Dr Ana (Anahita) Mansouri, Dr Helen McIver, Dr Aileen McPhillips, Dr James Olding, Nina Prisk, Dr Hannah (Hoda) Ranjbar, Dr Elle Reid, Dr Emily Swift, Rebecca Taylor

Best Surgical and Non-Surgical Results Best Surgical Result Winner: Mrs Sabrina Shah-Desai

Highly Commended: Mr Daniel Ezra Commended: Mr Tunc Tiryaki Finalists: Mr Mo Akhavani, Mr Yannis Alexandrides, Dr Grant Hamlet, Mr Dirk Kremer, Mr Dan Marsh

This case study using Juvéderm Volux demonstrated that with the highest expertise, a surgical result is available to the patient only wanting injectables, immediately in 15 minutes.

Highly Commended: Dr MJ Rowland-Warmann Commended: Mary White Finalists: Dr Yusra Al-Mukhtar, Dr Cormac Convery, Dr Tom Cryan, Dr Sunny Dhesi, Dr Tara Francis, Dr Anna Hemming, Dr James Olding, Dr Tanja Phillips, Dr Poonam Ram, Dr Linea Strachan, Dr Vincent Wong beyondbeauty.co.uk

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WORDS: ELLIE HOLDEN

My patient stopped smoking, started skincare and had upper and lower lid surgery.

My philosophy is holistic in order to give natural age appropriate results.

The AlumierMD Award for Best Non-Surgical Result Winner: Miss Jonquille Chantrey

REAL-LIFE STORY

Pesky Pigmentation Two patients share their journey to peel away their facial pigmentation

B

efore you get excited about the end of winter and immediately bake your skin in the glorious summer sun, consider this. The sun’s ultraviolet light is the number one cause of accelerated ageing!

As we will learn from 35-year-old Genta and 40-year-old Julia, taking care of your skin in the summer months with sunscreen and sun avoidance is integral to not only prevent nasty skin cancers, but to avoid premature wrinkles, sagging and pigment irregularities.

They both suffer from melasma – a type of skin discolouration or pigmentation that is caused by a mix of hormones and years of poor sun care. Fed up with the way their skin looks, Genta and Julia sought the help of aesthetic practitioner Dr Lori Nigro to see if she could help.

The concerns

Genta and Julia had been suffering from their pigmentation for years, and had tried using numerous creams to help, with no resolve. Genta says, “I’ve had severe pigmentation since my second pregnancy… especially on my forehead. It must be 12 years that I haven’t liked my skin and people constantly ask me why it’s so bad, which is very uncomfortable – I just wanted people to stop feeling sorry for me.” As you will read on p.25, melasma is common in pregnancy and can be badly exacerbated by the sun.

Julia has had similar issues, sharing, "I’m a little older now, so I have a few issues with my skin, but pigmentation is what really bothers me. I Before

would say my wrinkles bother me 5/10 but my pigmentation is 20/10! I had been thinking about getting treatment for a while since nothing else had worked.”

The treatment experience

After an in-depth medical consultation, Dr Lori deemed that Genta and Julia could each benefit from a chemical peel treatment because they were looking for a simple, effective and safe treatment without pain. Her treatment of choice for both patients was called the mesoestetic dermamelan protocol. This is a treatment plan that involves preparing the skin at home for two weeks before having an in-clinic chemical peel, followed by an ongoing strict aftercare and maintenance skin regime.

A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing procedure where a chemical solution is applied to remove the top layers of the skin. They are commonly used to treat or prevent wrinkles, address skin texture, improve acne and help pigmentation concerns.

“This treatment plan was a really novel experience – I haven’t had anything like this before,” says Julia, adding that when she stopped all her usual skincare and started the pre-treatment regime (see pre- and post-treatment box) she noticed her skin started peeling a little bit by the end of the two-week preparation stage. This stage is important because it leads to a quicker and more predictable treatment response, with less shedding and redness, according to Dr Lori. Julia says that she experienced a bit of skin flaking and peeling at this stage, and Genta added that her skin felt a bit tingly at night.

After

40-year-old Julia before and after eight weeks of the chemical peel pigmentation protocol. Patient treated by Dr Lori

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REAL-LIFE STORY

Pre- and Post-treatment Care Protocol Pre-chemical peel treatment Morning • Brightening Foam: a gentle cleanser with depigmentation action • Ultimate W+ Essence: a serum to initiate normalisation of pigment • Melan 130+ pigment control: a full spectrum sunscreen applied every two hours

Evening • • •

Brightening Foam Brightening Peel Booster: a gentle preparatory peel with fruit acids Ultimate W+ Essence: a serum to initiate normalisation of pigment

Post-chemical peel treatment

Morning • •

mesoestetic Melan Recovery Cream: nourishing moisturiser to control dryness Melan 130+ pigment control: every two hours

Evening •

Dermamelan home maintenance cream: a less concentrated form of the dermamelan mask, with the fully depigmentation stack of active ingredients, used for two to six months after treatment to refine the effect and help reduce pigment

“This has solved a problem I thought I couldn’t fix, and I would absolutely recommend this treatment to anyone with pigmentation concerns” Genta, 35

Before

After Genta and Julia had each completed the pretreatment protocol, they had their chemical peel treatments with Dr Lori. It was important that they did not have any special occasions booked in for a couple of weeks following the treatment where skin peeling would be a problem.

“My skin was cleansed and degreased and then Dr Lori applied the Dermamelan Treatment Mask.

This didn’t really feel any different to a normal mask and was completely pain free,” Julia explains.

Once the chemical peel was applied during a 45-minute in-clinic appointment, the patients were each instructed to go home and keep the mask on for four hours. The mask contains ingredients to remove the pigmentation and to regulate the cells that caused this pigmentation.

Both Genta and Julia commented that they each had an instant glow to their with improved texture when they washed off their masks. Genta says, “I felt quite beautiful immediately after removing the mask, like my skin was extremely clear! I was really excited – I thought if my skin looks so much better now, and I already have more beautiful skin, how will it look in a couple of months?”

Two days after the in-clinic chemical peel treatment, Dr Lori encouraged each patient to start their post-treatment regime. This step is vital because it continues correction and re-establishes normal pigmentation. Sun protection is especially important as new UV overexposure will trigger new pigmentation. A successful corrective treatment needs to be followed up by meticulous prevention of future damage, according to Dr Lori. “This was a process that took time and effort every day and was quite time-consuming, but was bearable to get results,” Julia reflects, adding, “My skin tingled quite a lot when using the aftercare and I sometimes got a sharp tingling for a few seconds when applying it."

About 10 days later, both patients started to experience skin peeling and significant dryness, which is to be expected, according to Dr Lori.

Genta says, “My skin felt quite irritated, dry

After

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WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

35-year-old Genta before and after eight weeks of the chemical peel pigmentation protocol. Patient treated by Dr Lori.

REAL-LIFE STORY

“My skin is very clear, my complexion looks healthier, and my dark spots are gone, which I had never thought would happen!”

Julia, 40

and really itchy at night; I felt I needed to keep re-applying the post-treatment creams for relief.

PPE/mask wearing for the pandemic made it more uncomfortable. But I just focused on the results – I focused on positive thoughts; nothing negative, always with a smile and it got better.” Gradually, Genta and Julia started to see improvements in their pigmentation and were instructed to continue their aftercare protocol for six months to maintain the progression of their results.

Radical results

After two months, both Genta and Julia have seen significant improvements in their melasma, skin clarity and texture and are thrilled with the results.

Dr Lori confirms that usually the maximal result is achieved within two months of the peel, but measurable improvements continue to be noted up to six months following treatment.

Genta says, “I think my results are amazing! When

For Julia, the real bonus is not having to feel like she has to wear makeup constantly. “I feel fantastic – 10 out of 10!” she says, adding, “My skin is very clear, my complexion looks healthier, and my dark spots are gone, which I never thought would happen! I think the problem has gone from 20/10 to 1/10. My husband has really noticed the difference, and my seven-year-old son told me he loves my skin!”

According to Julia, the whole treatment process has made her more aware of the importance of taking care of your skin. “I didn’t use sunscreen before and sometimes I wouldn’t even clean my face before I went to bed! Now I have this daily routine, I am much more careful about taking care of my skin as it’s had such an impact on my dayto-day life. I really think this treatment has been life changing!”

According to Dr Lori, the results should last longterm, and if Genta and Julia maintain their aftercare routines, they could expect a life-long improvement. Strict sun protection, with full spectrum sunscreen and clothing, should significantly slow ongoing photoageing, but trigger events such as pregnancy, or skin injury, may lead to further (treatable) hyperpigmentation.

Practitioner perspective Chronic facial pigmentation has a severe impact on patients’ quality of life. I often hear people say they are asked ‘why they have a moustache’ when the upper lip is affected or told ‘your face looks dirty,’ by well-meaning observers.

Treating pigmentation, specifically melasma, can be difficult and it’s important patients are compliant to the prescribed protocol for successful results. Genta and Julia had excellent compliance and enthusiasm, allowing them to have a fantastic clearance of their pigmentation and improvement in skin luminosity following the chemical peel.

Sun protection is crucial for preventing pigmentation and maintaining the treatment results. Once pigment producing cells (called melanocytes) are damaged by the sun, pigment production (called melanogenesis) becomes unbalanced, and pigmentation becomes visible on the surface of the skin. Over a patient’s lifetime, the damage becomes cumulative. Sun damage + melasma + inflammation + chronological ageing = ever worsening pigmentation.

A treatment such as a chemical peel, along with a carefully constructed pre-and post-procedure protocol can allow patients of all skin colours to go makeup free and feel confident again in a short time frame. In my clinic, this treatment costs from £1,200.

beyondbeauty.co.uk

WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

Dr Lori Nigro, aesthetic practitioner, 10 Harley St in London, Desenzano & Johannesburg IG: @drlori.co.uk

I look at my before picture, I just think my skin has come so far and the results are spectacular – I am so happy! This has changed the way I live and the way that people see me, not always seeing the marks. The most beautiful thing is that I have friends coming up to me saying things like ‘You’ve changed,’ or ‘What have you done?’ and even, “You look amazing, have you had toxin?!” Genta adds that she is delighted that her face no longer looks ‘dirty’, saying, “This has solved a problem I thought I couldn’t fix, and I would absolutely recommend this treatment to anyone with pigmentation concerns.”

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DID YO U KNOW ?

Fillers & Feminism

Beyond Beauty considers whether getting cosmetic treatment stops you from being a feminist The way women look has been commodified, objectified and analysed (mostly by men) throughout history. As a result, there’s been an ongoing battle for women to be accepted for more than just their outside appearance and to stop letting society dictate the way they look. With feminists fighting to escape the male gaze and the pressure to look a certain way, surely the concept of getting aesthetic treatments that inevitably make women ‘more attractive’ goes against everything they’ve been working towards... right?

This thought is leaving many women with an internal battle of whether getting treatments such as dermal fillers may render them an anti-feminist. In fact, research by pharmaceutical company Allergan, the creator of popular dermal filler brand Juvéderm, suggests that only 45% of women believe you can be a feminist and still love fillers. With more than half of the survey’s 1,500 respondents disagreeing, it seems that aesthetic treatments are still low in public opinion.

Alison Telfer, aesthetic nurse prescriber, The Glass House Clinic, Wimbledon/Clapham IG: @alisontelfer_

So how can it be anti-feminist for women to make their own choices, to look how they like and age the way they want to, nurse Telfer asks? “When female patients come into my clinic, it’s their way of saying: yes, I want to express my beauty in a certain way and yes, I will be happier if I can resolve this insecurity I have,” she states.

To help women understand that procedures are nothing to experience guilt around, nurse Telfer says that people who have treatments like dermal fillers should be more open about it. She says, “At the moment there is such a secrecy around having something done – you see celebrities who claim they’ve suddenly just got a whole new face just because they eat kale.”

She continues, “We need more women to own it! We should be saying, ‘I’ve had fillers under my eyes and now I don’t look as tired and I feel great!’ instead of hiding it away and saying they just get eight hours of sleep.”

Nurse Telfer also notes that women should be supporting other women’s decisions, even if it isn’t something they would choose to do themselves. She says, “We have to stop criticising each other! If your mum/friend/daughter wants to get some botulinum toxin, then good on them. That’s their decision, and we should respect that, and also celebrate that they are able to make that choice for themselves.”

So, there you have it – you can get your frown lines treated and still be fighting the feminism battle. Remember, what’s important is that if you’re getting a treatment done, you’re doing it because you want to, and not for anyone else!

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WORDS: HOLLY CARVER

According to aesthetic nurse prescriber Alison Telfer, a lot of her female patients experience feelings of guilt or shame about getting a procedure done, which she believes shouldn’t be the case. She comments, “Although there are various reasons why people feel shame or guilt for getting treatments, such as spending money on themselves or because of social perceptions that treatments look ‘fake’, a lot of people also think it might stop them from being a feminist. However, when you look at the definition of feminism, it’s the belief in full social, economic, and political equality for women. It’s about empowerment.”

Nurse Telfer believes that the media portrayal of aesthetic treatments has contributed to a negative idea of what it means to have a procedure. She says, “I think a lot of what people see on TV and in magazines are caricatures of women, because too often they’ve had too much work done and give off the sense that their main aim in life is just to bag a footballer. Of course, if you want to look that way it’s okay and it’s your choice, but people need to realise that isn’t just what aesthetics is about!” Because of this, nurse Telfer thinks there is an idea that getting a treatment makes you shallow, vapid and desperate for male attention. “In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a patient who has come in to look good for someone else. I find that what most women want is to feel completely confident in themselves even if they’re just sitting at home alone with nobody to see them,” she explains.

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PARTN E RS H I P

10 Things to Know About ® Ultherapy Everything you need to know about Tess Daly’s favourite treatment

Hands up – who watched the last series of Strictly Come Dancing and spent most of the time wondering how Tess Daly manages to keep her skin looking so flawless?

Luckily for you, Beyond Beauty knows her secret! Ultherapy® is a non-invasive treatment loved by celebrities, helping to lift and tighten the skin with little downtime.

We know it sounds a bit too good to be true, so we spoke to Dr Annelize Meyer to get the lowdown on everything you need to know about the procedure.

1. WHAT IS ULTHERAPY®?

Day-to-day our faces are constantly subjected to movement and pressure – when we smile, Dr Annelize Meyer sleep, talk, shout, cry or laugh – which can aesthetic practitioner Meyer Clinic, Chichester take its toll on levels of elastin and collagen.

IG: @meyerclinic Over time, the interplay of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors such as UV exposure and pollutants break down the collagen in the skin, weakening the fibres and causing loss of skin elasticity, which contributes to sagging and laxity.

Ultherapy® is a non-surgical micro-focused ultrasound with visualisation (MFU-V) treatment that stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, helping to combat the skin’s sagging and laxity as we age.

2. HOW DOES IT WORK? Ultherapy® uses precise micro-focused ultrasound energy to heat the deep structural layers of the skin without disrupting the skin’s surface. After treatment, the body’s tissue repair process stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, creating a lifting effect.

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3. WHAT AREAS CAN ULTHERAPY® TREAT? The device is used for non-invasive sculpting and lifting of the skin on the upper and lower face, under the chin, neck and on the eyebrows as well as improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolletage (chest area). The treatment can be tailored according to different areas of the face and a qualified practitioner can customise treatment plans to individual patient needs.

After treatment, the body's tissue repair process stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, creating a lifting effect

PARTN E RS H I P

Tess Daly, model and television presenter “What I like about Ultherapy® is that it’s a treatment that makes you look fresher with natural-looking results. It’s not going to change your appearance or make you look like a different version of yourself. I think that in itself is a win because nobody wants to look like a strange wind tunnelled version of themselves. I absolutely see Ultherapy as an investment in the future of my skin because it is a treatment you can have once a year or once every 18 months that just helps to lift and boost your own skin.”

4. HOW LONG DOES A TREATMENT TAKE? The length of the treatment will depend on your area of concern and your individual treatment plan, however a face and neck treatment typically takes around 60-90 minutes, while a décolletage treatment takes approximately 30 minutes. You could nip out and get it done in your lunch break!

procedures have been performed worldwide, and every medical Ultherapy® practitioner receives extensive procedural training so you can feel confident in choosing the procedure!

7. HOW LONG WILL RESULTS LAST? Patients typically return for a treatment every 18 months or so, but this will depend on the patient and area targeted.

8. ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR ULTHERAPY®?

A good Ultherapy® candidate has mild to moderate skin laxity where the skin begins to look less firm or tight. Examples include a lowered eyebrow, loose skin on the neck, sagging under the chin, and lines or wrinkles on the chest. Ultherapy® is also suitable for all skin colours and types including darker skin tones. To determine what results you could expect with Ultherapy®, speak to a medical practitioner.

9. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Pricing can vary depending on the treatment protocol to achieve your desired results and will be discussed during your consultation with your aesthetic practitioner. For smaller areas, prices can start from around £500 for a brow.

5. WHEN WILL YOU SEE RESULTS?

10. WHO CAN PERFORM ULTHERAPY®?

You will be able to see the results from three months following treatment, as the growth of new collagen and elastin replaces old tissue, resulting in tightened skin.

To book your Ultherapy® appointment, you should consult a qualified authorised medical practitioner who will advise the most appropriate treatment for you. To find your nearest Ultherapy® provider, scan the QR code!

6. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OR RECOVERY TIME? During the procedure you might experience some mild discomfort, but generally, there is no real recovery time. The skin might appear flushed at first, but the redness should disappear within a few hours. Some patients experience slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to the touch, but these are usually temporary.

As with any aesthetic medical procedure, there is the possibility of other side effects, which your practitioner will review with you. However, more than 1.75 million Ultherapy® Before

This advertorial was sponsored by Merz aesthetics UK & Ireland

M-ULT-UKI-0982 Date of preparation June 2021

After

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WORDS: HOLLY CARVER

Patient before and 90 days after Ultherapy treatment

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Pure HA is a highly concentrated liquid skin mask, containing 1.8% of hyaluronic acid to smooth, moisturize and revitalize your skin while boosting its natural hydration.

Usually used in medical and aesthetic practices worldwide, you can now treat your skin with the same high quality of pharma grade hyaluronic acid at home.

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The Do’s and Don’ts

of Summer Selfcare Top tips on how to look after your skin this summer

W

e’re currently in the midst of summer 2022, and while everyone is desperate to look their best after months of hibernation, there are some important factors to take into consideration when planning your beauty regime. To ensure we're all looking after ourselves this year, aesthetic practitioner Dr Amiee Vyas gives Beyond Beauty some of her do’s and don’ts for the summer months.

sun damage, medication side effects and inflammation like acne, but in all cases is worsened by sun exposure. SPF will need to be reapplied every few hours as it wears off. If you’re worried about topping up because of makeup, you can get sprays or compacts to apply. People also tend to forget certain areas such as ears, under eyes, and lips, so make sure you don’t neglect any area of your body!

DON’T... Get a deep chemical peel

A lot of my patients who have skin concerns, such as acne, see an improvement in their conditions during the summer period, and they tend to stop their usual treatment routines because of it. Although the skin can tend to be better in the summer months, neglecting your usual treatments and skincare routine can cause the issue to flare up worse than ever, so make sure you stay consistent with what your skin needs. In summer, you should continue using vitamin C and retinol, whilst also ensuring SPF is used regularly as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

When you get a chemical peel, you’re essentially stripping the layers of skin off your face. While this can be incredibly good for our skin in the long run, making it stronger and healthier, it initially means the skin is extremely sensitive and takes time to heal. Being out in the sun can cause damage to the new layer of exposed skin, and it can also worsen hyperpigmentation.

Save the deeper peels for the autumn/ winter, and instead use lighter alternatives such as superficial or fruit acid-based peels that don’t require as much downtime. When looking to book a peel in the summer, ensure that it is not listed as a medium depth peel or a reticular dermis peel.

DO... Wear SPF

DO... Keep your skin hydrated

The most important thing for everyone to remember! Sun protection is essential all year round to protect your skin from UV rays and external aggressors, but this is even more critical in the summer months when the sun is at its hottest. I always recommend my patients wear SPF 30, and in summer I increase this to SPF 50 to ensure you’re getting as much protection as you can to prevent skin cancers, sun damage/ signs of ageing and hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation refers to a condition where patches of skin become darker in colour than the normal surrounding skin due to excess of melanin production. This can occur due to many reasons including

I always encourage using a lighter moisturiser in the summer months – nobody wants anything heavy on their face when they’re hot and sweaty. I particularly recommend using a product that includes hyaluronic acid as its primary ingredient, and is slow releasing, which helps keep your face hydrated throughout the day.

Chlorinated water/salt water can really dry out your skin too, so if you’re swimming this is extra important.

DON’T... Neglect your usual routine

Also, ensure you’re drinking enough water!

It seems obvious but if it’s hot, the more you sweat out, the more dehydrated you’ll get, which can cause dry, itchy, and dull skin.

DON’T... Have laser hair removal right before you sunbathe I know you might want to sort your bikini line out but, like chemical peels, laser hair removal is something that requires some downtime in order for the skin barrier to heal. Exposing the area to the sun too soon can cause serious irritation, result in pigmentation changes to the skin, which can delay the healing process. If you are going to have the procedure, I recommend not having that area out for at least a week or 10 days if possible. It’s also important not to sunbathe prior to the treatment, as for a few days you will experience sun-induced inflammation meaning more heat shouldn’t be added to the body. In addition, laser devices typically work better when there is a contrast between darker pigmented hair and lighter skin. Having a tan makes it harder to distinguish between the two.

DO... Use antioxidants To help keep your skin nice and glowy, and provide it with extra protection, I always advise antioxidant use as part of your daily skincare routine. Antioxidants protect our skin against free radical damage from sun rays and pollution, which cause accelerated ageing, hyperpigmentation, sunspots and inflammation. Ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide and liquorice extract, are good ones to look out for when choosing your products.

Dr Amiee Vyas, aesthetic practitioner Doctor Amiee Facial Aesthetics & Skin, London IG: @amieevyas

INTERVIEW: HOLLY CARVER

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ADVANCED ANTIOXIDANT PROTECTION Strengthens, smooths & protects skin PCASkin_UK

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How To:

Perform Home Light Treatments Did you know you can be your own facialist and optimise the results of in-clinic skin treatments by using an at-home light device?

Light emitting diode (LED) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses varying wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin at different depths and trigger the skin’s natural healing process to improve a variety of skin conditions. While there are many LED devices offered in-clinic, there are also plenty of treatments that can be really beneficial for your skin and are approved for at-home use. To help you find the right one for you, we spoke to aesthetic practitioner Dr Preema Vig who gave us the lowdown on how you can look your best from the comfort of your own bedroom!

How do LED devices work?

The majority of at-home LED devices offer a red light setting, which works to soothe inflammation and redness, and can combat the signs of ageing by stimulating the natural production of collagen and elastin. Some devices offer blue light, which can help rid the skin of bacteria causing acne, and green Dr Preema Vig, aesthetic light, which can help pigmentation. The light practitioner, Dr Preema London Clinic emitted from these devices is completely IG: @drpreema different from the sun’s UV rays, which means you won’t get any damage the way you would from, say, a sunbed.

You won’t get a tan either!

How can light therapy benefit you?

Light therapy can be beneficial to treat a number of skin concerns and can help with: reducing fine lines, improving skin texture and tone, increasing the skin’s natural hydration, restoring optimum cell function, promoting blood circulation, stimulating the lymphatic system to reduce swelling, inflammation and puffiness, repairing damaged cells, speeding up wound healing, improving the appearance of scars, and increasing strength and thickness in the cellular structure and hair follicles.

Side effects after LED use are extremely rare, but should be considered as they may include increased inflammation, redness, rash, pain, and tenderness. If you experience any of the above, you should stop using the device and contact your medical aesthetic practitioner.

What considerations are there for choosing an at-home light treatment?

Prices for the devices can start anywhere from £250, and you should always consult your aesthetic practitioner before purchasing. Some devices may not work for everyone, so I always advise my patients to discuss their skin goals or skin concerns with myself and my team as this will determine which device is best for them to use at home.

When performing the treatment, you should always ensure that your skin has been cleansed and exfoliated prior to application, and you should not use retinol-based products near the time of application.

The treatment can be performed in the morning or evening, and I typically recommend 10-30 minutes each time.

Don’t forget to also clean the device following treatment, and you may need to charge it after use.

Any aftercare advice?

At-home light devices don’t have any downtime and you can resume your regular skincare routine afterwards. You should avoid the sun for 48 hours after because your skin will be more sensitive, and ensure you’re applying SPF and moisturiser. It should be noted that although you’ll see a change in skin appearance, light-therapy devices won’t have full results after one session and, depending on the device and result you’re trying to achieve, you may have to perform the treatment several times a week for a few consecutive weeks. If you’re just looking for a quick refresh after a facial, one or two may be enough though!

Some of the at-home LED treatments available for purchase

Are at-home light devices safe?

Celluma Light Therapy

Dermalux Flex MD

Déesse Pro Express Mask

LightStim

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INTERVIEW: HOLLY CARVER

It is important to purchase home-use devices from an authorised stockist/retailer as you want to ensure you have invested in a genuine device with the appropriate accreditation. You should ensure that the device is CE marked, meaning that the product meets EU standards for health, safety, and environmental protection. Otherwise, the device could be damaging or may simply not work at all. You should always ensure that you follow the device’s instructions and follow your practitioner’s recommendation for optimum results and safety.

It’s important to note that those who are pregnant or have light sensitive conditions, such as epilepsy, should seek advice from a medical aesthetic practitioner before embarking on home light therapy usage as it is often not suitable.

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R E CIPE

IMPROVING STRESS FROM WITHIN Nutritionist, hair loss consultant and bio-energetics practitioner Simone Thomas presents a special recipe to help target the signs of stress and anxiety

W

e all lead stressful lives, and everyone hits the panic button every now and then. The pandemic of course hasn’t helped with stats from the Mental Health Foundation indicating 62% of adults in the UK have felt anxious or worried.

But according to nutritionist Simone Thomas, when we are suffering from low mood, stress or anxiety, we need to look at four key pillars of wellness: sleep, water, exercise and nutrition.

Focusing specifically on nutrition, she says, “The foods you choose to eat will have a huge impact on how you feel. There is a clear connection between your gut health and your mental wellbeing. Most people will be familiar with the phrase ‘gut feeling’, which is where your gut tells you what the right decision is or recognises if you are nervous. Those feelings are the power of the gut. You get those queasy stomach feelings because your gut carries responses directly to and from the brain. This is why it is often referred to as the second brain.

The gut houses the enteric nervous system (ENS) which contains more nerve cells than even your spinal cord, Simone explains, “With such a large nervous system there, it’s not surprising then that when we’re stressed and run-down, we get an upset stomach.”

As well as reacting to your mood, Simone notes that your gut can affect your mood too! “Your gut contains 95% of your serotonin, your natural ‘happy’ neurotransmitter. This means that if your gut is unhealthy, out of balance, or inflamed, then it can’t produce serotonin. As a result, your mood will plummet and it may also impact your sleep cycles,” she explains.

Focusing on your diet “For those wanting a natural path to help with anxiety and stress, I always recommend that you cut out caffeine, alcohol and excess sugar which may act as a trigger,” Simone advises, explaining that foods to increase daily into your diet include pumpkin seeds, natural yogurts, lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, brown rice, oats and wholemeal pasta.

Starting your day with a healthy breakfast is key to how your mood will play out, says Simone.

“My breakfast routine is a 6am hot water and lemon (to flush out all the toxins that have built up over night and restore my pH levels). Then I have breakfast (such as a Blueberry Smoothie Bowl) and a daily probiotic to help lift my mood as well as improve my overall gut health. Other vitamins and minerals you can take to boost your mood are: vitamin B1, B6 and B12, vitamin C, D and E, folic acid, calcium, zinc, magnesium and chromium.”

Of course, although eating a healthy diet may help with low mood, stress and anxiety, it’s important to seek help if you are struggling with your mental health. You can call the NHS or get in touch with a mental health charity such as Mind or a free listening service such as Samaritans.

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Chia seeds Source of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, antioxidants, iron, and calcium

RECIPE

Blueberry Smoothie Bowl If you suffer from anxiety or stress, Simone says, “A mood boosting go-to recipe for me is my Blueberry Smoothie Bowl (or you can use any berry, like strawberries or raspberries). I like blueberries because they contain high level of antioxidants, known to be beneficial for brain health and for reducing oxidative stress. Always go for organic fruit, as chemicals on fruit and vegetables may cause gut imbalances which can have a negative effect on your mood.”

Blueberries Full of vitamin C, which our bodies crave when we are stressed, to help protect and repair your cells

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 200g frozen blueberries • 200g natural coconut yoghurt • 1tsp maple syrup • ½tsp vanilla extract • Organic seaweed or 2 Simone Thomas Wellness Super Greens Powder Capsules

Method

1. Put the blueberries, coconut yoghurt, maple syrup and vanilla extract into a blender.

2. Empty the Simone Thomas Wellness Super Green

3.

capsules or place the organic seaweed into the blender and blitz all the ingredients until completely smooth.

Spoon into a serving bowl, top with your favourite super ingredients such as cacao nibs or chia seeds and enjoy.

Natural coconut yogurt Great for feeding gut bacteria to restore and balance your gut and mood

Additional recipes that can help promote healthy hair, skin, health and wellbeing, as well as the Simone Thomas Award Winning Wellness Plans, can be found online – Simone Thomas Wellness NutriHome.

Use code BEAUTY20 for 20% off your first purchase.

Share your Blueberry Smoothie Bowl creations on Instagram... @beyondbeauty_mag & @SimoneThomasWellness

WORDS: SHANNON KILGARIFF

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PARTN E RS H I P

SMOOTHING YOUR SKIN Feel confident in your skin again by improving the appearance of your acne scars Acne is considered to be the most common skin condition, with 85% of females and 15% of males having experienced some form of adult acne. While having acne can be bad enough, what’s worse is what it can leave behind if left untreated — acne scars. Scarring is the result of inflammation, in which the swelling of the acne pore grows and breaks down the wall of the pore. During the healing process the body produces collagen to repair the damage, however too much or too little collagen production can result in scarring. With our collagen levels depleting by 1-2% every year from our mid 20s, these scars can become even more noticeable as we age.

Acne scars can be a huge cause of insecurity for a lot of people, with research indicating that people who have these scars are less confident and happy than those without. Thankfully, the world of aesthetic medicine is expanding constantly, and there are now many options available for treating acne scars such as energy-based devices. If you’re looking for a way to feel confident with your skin again, look no further!

Laser treatments A great option for treating your acne scars is laser therapy. Laser works by delivering strong beams of light to treat damaged areas on the body. One device, called the PicoSure laser, uses light that penetrates the outer layers of the skin as well as down to the deeper layers (the dermis). The combination of treating both layers is what stimulates the skin’s own natural wound healing response to deep collagen remodelling and elastic alignment, which is necessary to successful treatment of acne scars.

PicoSure can be a good option for patients who lead busy lifestyles and want virtually no discomfort or downtime. People usually Before

After

report that they feel mildly sunburnt after this treatment, but aside from this, the procedure is very comfortable and is usually complete within 30 minutes.

Four to six treatments will be needed depending on the severity of the scars, spaced four weeks apart.

Radiofrequency microneedling Another option for acne scarring is radiofrequency microneedling.

The Potenza is one device that combines ultrafine needles and radiofrequency energy to penetrate the top layer of the skin and trigger the body’s natural healing process to regenerate new collagen and elastin. It also has a variety of needle tips for treating a variety of scar sizes.

Like lasers, radiofrequency microneedling is a minimally-invasive procedure, with no serious pain or downtime. Minor bleeding is expected during the treatment and the patient will experience a sunburn sensation with some swelling. However, this typically resolves in 24-48 hours.

Improvement in the skin can be observed from the first or second treatment, however you may need four to six treatments dependant on the severity of your scarring. The treatment interval is also four to six weeks apart to allow more time for healing.

Practitioner perspective “The beauty of radiofrequency is that it is ‘colour blind’ meaning it is suitable for all skin colours/tones! In my clinic I use the Potenza device, and one particular advantage of this treatment is the ability to use the new Cushion Tip which allows for the penetration of active Dr Benji Dhillon, ingredients into the skin alongside the aesthetic practitioner, Define Clinic Beaconsfield microneedling and radiofrequency.

IG: @defineclinic Unlike many other treatments, this technology can be used on those who have active acne spots, giving you an overall clearer complexion.”

Patient before and after two PicoSure laser therapy sessions. Results show improvements in acne scars. Patient treated by Dr R Salura.

Before

After

Patients can expect to pay £400 for one PicoSure treatment, and from £350 for Potenza.

To find your nearest Potenza or PicoSure provider scan the QR code.

This advertorial was reviewed and funded by Cynosure Patient before and after three radiofrequency microneedling sessions with the Potenza device. Results show an improvement in acne scarring. Patient treated

by Dr JH Yoon.

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WORDS: HOLLY CARVER

B B E XP E R IE NC ES

Reviewing Results Acting Editor Shannon Kilgariff experiences HydraFacial, the perfect pre-wedding treatment

What is it about a big event that makes you suddenly notice all your skin’s impurities just days leading up to it?

This happened to me recently, when I suddenly realised the week of my friend’s wedding that after months of lockdown, my skin had seen better days. Thankfully I was generally clear of spots, but my pores had started to get quite dark and congested, my skin was dull and dehydrated and I just felt – yuck.

I didn’t have time for the likes of chemical peels, microneedling or radiofrequency – I needed results straight away with no downtime. With practitioners promising HydraFacial to be a gentle, yet effective treatment, I 1 made the decision to book in just days before the wedding, and report my experience trialling this treatment.

face while delivering key ingredients that aim to help both exfoliate and revitalise the skin. A skin solution with glycolic and salicylic acid is then applied for about four minutes, which helps further exfoliate the skin to remove the dead cells. Extraction is the exciting part – this stage involves an intense (but not at all painful) vacuum of your pores – it’s like a vacuum cleaner for your face! Once the pores are clear and all the dead skin cells are gone, the boosters full of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and peptides are added. These provide immediate hydration and help reduce redness and inflammation. Finally, you go under a red LED light to end the treatment, which provides a gentle warming sensation, setting the ingredients into your skin and helping stimulate collagen production.

What is HydraFacial?

The results

HydraFacial is a hydradermabrasion treatment that sucks away your dead skin cells, extracts impurities and pulls away the gunk in your pores, whilst simultaneously bathing the new skin with cleansing, hydrating and moisturising serums. It’s a popular treatment, performed in 87 2 3 countries around the world with more than 2.5 million treatments per year!

New on the HydraFacial menu is a range of boosters, which aim to create a more bespoke treatment approach to address individual skin concerns. I decided to go for the Dermabuilder, as this hopes to smooth the appearance of fine lines, enhance skin elasticity and provide intense hydration. It sounded like a good 1. LED light to end the treatment 2. The extraction way to prepare my skin for wedding stage 3. The HydraFacial gunk tube makeup! Next time, I think I’ll opt for the new Keravive as it’s specifically designed to cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate the scalp and hair follicles to promote the appearance of healthier, thicker, fullerlooking hair – who wouldn’t want this?

You’re not going to look like you’ve had a facelift after a HydraFacial. But your skin will immediately feel cleaner, fresher and incredibly more hydrated.

As soon as the treatment ended, my skin felt smoother, and I had that glow and radiance I was looking for, which was perfect for the wedding.

When I inspected my pores closely, I could really see the difference – they were completely clear and there were none of those dark congestions I had before. In the days following, I was delighted to have several compliments about my skin, so the treatment will be something I’d soon have again before a big event.

The treatment After a consultation with the therapist to ensure you’re suitable for the treatment, a consent form is signed (you are asked about things like allergies and you can’t have used retinol recently as this can cause irritation).

The first stage is a lymphatic drainage massage to flush out toxic build-up from the body and help reduce facial puffiness.

It’s a nice and relaxing feeling, and really got me comfortable and settled into the procedure. Then is the cleansing and exfoliation stage, where a vacuum-like tip dances around your

Cost: £170-450 depending on the chosen treatment and clinic location Where to book: You can find a HydraFacial provider near you by using the clinic finder function on the website.

Top tip

After your HydraFacial, make sure you ask your therapist to see the gunk tube – my highlight of the treatment is seeing all the grime and dead skin cells that have been removed to show how clean my skin was!

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REAL-LIFE STORY

RESTORING BODY CONFIDENCE

How removing excess skin through cosmetic surgery can help your everyday life Losing weight has become an important goal in many people’s everyday lives and might now be even higher on the list of priorities after the pandemic. According to a survey of 1,200 participants, 22% stated they gained between five and 10 pounds as a result of the pandemic. After losing weight, a new concern for many is the remaining excess skin that can be left behind. Although there are some non-surgical skin tightening treatments available that may help, if there is significant loose skin, then the best option for removal is surgery. For 35-year-old Holly, undergoing a tummy tuck, arm, thigh and breast lift has given her a new lease of life and restored her confidence.

Saying goodbye to excess skin During her youth, Holly weighed around 15st 7lb at her largest, but at the tender age of 21, Holly managed to lose 5½ stone through dieting and exercise and has since maintained this weight for the past 14 years. However, she suffered from excess skin around her tummy, breasts, arms and thighs as a result of the weight loss.

Holly stated, “The excess skin made me feel so much bigger. I had lost so much weight, but I couldn’t see the true results due to the loose skin on my body.” To try and shift the lax skin, Holly continued training at the gym, but was noticing no improvements and was becoming demotivated. She realised that because her excess skin was so severe, surgery was the best option for her. She comments, “I researched online for cosmetic surgeons, read reviews through websites such as RealSelf, and had seven consultations before I found the right practitioner for me.”

At her last consultation, Holly met with consultant plastic and cosmetic surgeon Mr Mo Akhavani. She reflects, “When I met Mr Akhavani, I knew he was the right surgeon for me. I got a good feeling about him and felt I could trust him because he was extremely honest.

He asked me about the areas I wanted to treat, completed a full assessment, and told me the most prolific treatment plan best suited to achieve the results I wanted. I did not find that any other surgeons I visited did this for me. I found them to be unapproachable and that I was just another number to them.”

Before

After

An informative consultation After deciding that Mr Akhavani was the right surgeon for her, Holly discussed her concerns and the potential risks involved in the surgery. She recalls, “The first question Mr Akhavani asked me was ‘Who is going to take care of you after the procedure?’. I found this question to be so powerful as he was concerned about my wellbeing, which no other surgeon had asked me about during previous consultations.” Mr Akhavani then proceeded to inform Holly of the ideal order of the treatments. He recommended the body lift to be performed on its own first (which was a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty but continuing all the way around the body to the back) followed by the thigh and arm lift next and then finally a breast lift, with sufficient recovery time between each procedure. In total, Holly would receive three different surgeries. She notes, “We discussed the risks such as infection, wound healing problems, asymmetrical scarring, as well as the cost and duration of the surgery.”

In the lead-up to the first operation, Holly began to feel nervous and was eager to find out as much information as she could from other patients who had undergone similar procedures. She says, “I ended up on Instagram, typing in hashtags such as body lift and tummy tuck, and began messaging women who had gone through the same surgery. I managed to receive replies from three women who were lovely and put my mind at ease. We still remain friends to this day!”

An extensive procedure

Holly before and three months after body lift procedure combined with liposuction.

After photo shows tightening of the excess skin on the stomach

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On the day of the body lift procedure, Holly was placed under general anaesthesia with the surgery taking just under five hours to perform. During the surgery, Holly was first positioned on her front so that liposuction

REAL-LIFE STORY

Before

After

Before

After

Holly before and three months after arm lift procedure. After photo shows the removal of excess fat from the upper arm.

could be performed on her back. This was followed by a cut to remove excess fat and then she was stitched. Holly was then turned over to lie on her back and the same was performed on her front. According to Mr Akhavani, depending on how much tissue is removed from the treated area, a drain may be added to remove any fluids which may collect post-surgery. Holly stayed overnight at the Welbeck London Hospital, and was overwhelmed by the results post-procedure. She recalls, “I remember thinking that I felt so narrow around my hips, and it was bizarre. You don’t know what to expect to look like because you try to throw all your expectations out of the window until afterwards, but it blew my mind!” Five months later, she underwent her arm and thigh lift surgery, followed by a breast lift four months later.

Attentive aftercare After the first procedure, Holly felt a tight sensation in her stomach. The removal of the skin and the swelling meant it became tricky for her to manoeuvre. At six weeks, Holly had another consultation with Mr Akhavani with further follow-up appointments at one week, three months and six months post-surgery. She says, “There was quite a lot of postoperative aftercare appointments to change the first set of wound dressings – it’s not over once the surgery has happened. You are also given dressings to take home with you if you need them. It is common to feel some pain after the surgery, but I was very lucky and didn’t feel any. Thankfully, I did not need to take any painkillers at all. The main post-surgery symptom I struggled with was the swelling. You don’t realise how bad swelling can be until you have one of these operations!”

Although she had to stay mobile after the operation, she was advised not to exercise for six to eight weeks post-procedure, and to return to a gentle exercise routine after this time frame.

Practitioner perspective

Despite losing weight at 21, Holly was still self-conscious about the excess skin left behind and these procedures have installed confidence back into her everyday life. She comments, “I can now wear mainstream clothing, which was always tricky for me to buy. I happily fit into a size 10-12 with no problems at all. The excess skin is no longer there, and it is much more comfortable when I’m exercising. I feel more confident at the gym as everything feels tighter and more sculpted.

It has given me a new lease of life!”

When asked if she had any advice for people thinking about getting this type of surgery, Holly says, “Make sure you seek a consultation with several surgeons to find the right one for you. Do your research, make sure your surgeon is listed on the General Medical Council specialist register for plastic surgery and go with your gut. You need to pick the right surgeon for you; it is not a one size fits all approach. They all have different methods and treatment options available. After that, go for it!

My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner!”

outgoing and active and wants to help inform fellow patients interested in having these surgeries performed. Holly’s result was really good, and she did not have any problems in terms of wound healing. She was very diligent in her post-operative care and took all advice given to her on board which is important for optimal results. At my clinic, an arm and thigh lift costs from £7,990, a body lift from £15,990 but with added liposuction it's from £18,990 and a breast lift from £9,990.

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WORDS: ELLIE HOLDEN

Mr Mo Akhavani, consultant plastic and cosmetic surgeon, as well as UK assistant national secretary for the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Mr Mo Akhavani Plastic Surgery, London IG: @moakhavani

These procedures are great at improving the functional ability of the patient. Loose and lax skin can cause chaffing, get caught in clothing and make it difficult to find appropriate clothing options. More importantly, these procedures are fantastic at restoring the confidence in patients. Holly was very shy during the consultation and was even reluctant to remove her clothing for me to assess her. However, post-surgery she is more

Confidence restored

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ASK THE EXPERT

Fillers & COVID

What you need to know before booking your next dermal filler appointment Have you heard there have been reactions to dermal fillers after getting COVID-19 or the vaccine? For those who have had dermal fillers or are planning to, this can sound a bit scary and leave you wondering what this may mean for you in terms of future treatments.

Unfortunately, this has led some people to doubt whether to even get their vaccines, and there have been reports of people cancelling their appointments in order to get their cosmetic procedures done!

To calm your nerves and reassure you that you can still get your lips plumped or your smile lines treated while keeping safe from the pandemic, we spoke to aesthetic practitioner Dr Martyn King and aesthetic nurse prescriber Sharon King who gave us the lowdown on everything you need to know.

What kinds of reactions have been reported?

Earlier this year, three women with dermal fillers experienced reactions after receiving their COVID-19 vaccine. Dr King comments, “In Moderna’s phase 3 trial of its NIAID vaccine, which included 30,000 subjects, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) noted that three patients who had facial fillers experienced slight swelling to their face after receiving the vaccine. This was on the day of vaccination in two patients and, in the other patient, two days after vaccination. Since then, there have also been reports of hypersensitivity (swelling or lumps) in several other patients.”

All reactions that have occurred following a vaccine have been easily rectified using topical treatments such as oral steroids or have gone away by themselves. Currently, no reported reactions have been long-lasting or required extensive treatment.

While very few people have experienced these mild side effects, nurse King says we might start to see a rise in people reporting these kinds of reactions in connection with COVID-19 vaccinations.

She comments, “While there have previously only been a small number of adverse effects reported, the vaccine is getting a greater mass roll-out now than before and it is starting to go out to the age demographic of patients who typically get facial filler. This means that these side effects may become slightly more common, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re becoming more dangerous.

You should, however, take necessary precautions to prevent a reaction from happening.”

aesthetic practitioner should screen for this in their consultation.

Nurse King comments, “From studies on other vaccinations, it’s known that the first three weeks are pivotal when developing an antibody response, and this is when the immune system is most stimulated, which can cause reactions for some people. The guidance we have created applies to all current COVID-19 vaccinations.”

While there is currently no evidence or reports that any COVID-19 vaccination or infection has caused side effects for people who have had other non-surgical aesthetic procedures, for example botulinum toxin, the ACE Group World recommends avoiding these treatments for at least one week pre or post vaccine/infection. He also recommends patients take a rapid lateral flow test before your filler appointment to check you are not asymptomatic.

Get your vaccines!

We know it’s frightening to see any kind of side effect publicised, but it’s important not to let this stop you from attending your vaccine appointment. Both nurse King and Dr King emphasise that if you follow the above advice you can keep yourself and others safe, but still look good at the same time!

Dr King adds, “As always, make sure you’re only getting your treatments done by a registered medical professional to ensure they’re able to treat you if you do experience any side effects, and do contact them immediately if this is the case.”

Should you be worried?

Dr King believes that patients need not worry, but to be on the safe side they should not get dermal fillers either two weeks before, or three weeks after, receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, or having the infection. The Aesthetic Complications Expert (ACE) Group World, of which Dr King is the chair and nurse King is a director, has released official guidance on this for its 5,000 members, so your medical 60

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Nurse Sharon King and Dr Martyn King aesthetic practitioners, Cosmedic Clinic, Tamworth IG: @cosmedic_clinic

WORDS: HOLLY CARVER

M A LE FO CUS

FINDING A SOLUTION TO MALE HAIR LOSS Grow your confidence by tackling your hair loss concerns

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M A LE FO CUS

I

t’s estimated that two-thirds of men will suffer from hair loss at some point in their lives.

Although an extremely common issue, it can be a cause of insecurity for a lot of men, lowering the quality of life for many, specifically when it comes to self-perception and relationships. According to a survey of 2,000 men, the majority would even rather have a small penis than be bald! To help rid you of your hair loss woes, or assist you to better inform your male friends and family, hair transplant surgeon Mr Greg Williams and trichologist Dr Ingrid Wilson provide their advice on the different options available.

Non-invasive methods So, if you aren’t ready to go full Jason Statham and rock the bald look, what options are out there?

Dr Wilson explains there are an array of methods for treating hair loss which don’t involve going under the knife. She says, “Although hair transplants are probably the most widely known method for treating hair loss, there are actually many methods that don’t require invasive surgery which can help with your hair loss journey and I believe these should be considered first.”

Below, she outlines some of the many treatment options she offers to her patients, although not every treatment is suitable for everyone.

Prescription medication The most common treatment is minoxidil, Dr Wilson says, which can be applied topically onto the skin, or rarely can be taken as an oral medication. According to Dr Wilson, this treatment can help people suffering Dr Ingrid Wilson, trichologist, Crewe with baldness to slow down the rate at Hair and Skin Clinic, which they are experiencing hair loss.

Cheshire She advises, “Topical minoxidil can be IG: @dringridwilson purchased widely from pharmacies, but oral minoxidil needs to be prescribed to you by a medical professional. Typically it can take around six months for it to start showing results or for you to determine if it is working for you. Another common option for treating hair loss is finasteride, a prescription drug for men, which you take once a day. It takes three to four months to see the full effects and know if it’s working.”

Finasteride can lead to a lowered sex drive in some men, and is not suitable for everyone. Dr Wilson notes that men should be assessed for their risk of sexual or erectile dysfunction, by being asked screening questions about their health, before they have it prescribed.

Your response to all hair loss medications is determined by your genetics, according to Dr Wilson, who advises going to a medical professional for a DNA test first, which can help identify which ones might work for you. She says, “When looking for treatments, make sure you book a consultation with a medical professional who can carry out a private test. This will stop you wasting time on anything

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that might not work and point you in the direction of ones that will!” It is important to note that the test does not diagnose the cause of hair loss, so it is imperative to have a consultation with a suitably qualified professional first, Dr Wilson adds.

Low-level laser therapy A newer method for treating hair loss comes in the form of non-invasive aesthetic devices. Dr Wilson says lowlevel laser therapy can help to stimulate the hair follicles and encourage growth by emitting light which can penetrate the scalp. Due to it being a relatively new option the evidence base is small, but it is gradually growing.

Unfortunately, Dr Wilson explains, the most well-known devices have not been tested on darker skin tones. She notes, “Although there are some results showing that it does work, I would advise using laser light therapy in combination with other treatments, such as prescription medication, rather than on its own."

"You need to ensure that you have protein with every meal – even breakfast! This is because it builds keratin and without this your hair can become brittle" Dr Ingrid Wilson

Platelet-rich-plasma therapy (PRP) Another treatment that Dr Wilson advises using in combination with other treatments is PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy. This refers to a process in which a person’s blood is taken, processed, and then injected back into the area of concern. Increasing the growth factors from the PRP is thought to help natural growth, however results do vary and more studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment regime for different causes of hair loss.

Don’t underestimate your diet!

Dr Wilson notes that the first thing she does during a consultation is find out about a patient’s diet and lifestyle.

She comments, “There are many everyday factors that can have an impact, such as hair pulling, smoking, hat wearing, and stress. Even something as simple as getting men to wash their hair more often can help, because it gets rid of the dead hairs and allows for new growth.”

Dr Wilson also notes that nutrition can play a role in how

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M A LE FO CUS

you experience hair loss, so now you have no excuse to put off cooking those healthy meals! She says, “You need to ensure that you have protein with every meal – even breakfast! This is because it builds keratin and without this your hair can become brittle.”

Dr Wilson also recommends ensuring you have a wide variety of colours in your meals, so that all vitamins and minerals are consumed. “All vitamins are important for your hair in different ways,” she says, explaining, “For example vitamin A produces sebum to keep your head moisturised and vitamin B carries nutrients to the scalp. Biotin is a common B7 supplement that can help stimulate keratin production and is regularly used for treating hair loss – but it is important to know that there is only actually evidence for biotin improving hair growth in those with a deficiency."

Surgical treatments Mr Williams explains that hair transplant surgery refers to a procedure in which hair follicles are removed from one part of the body (usually the back and/ or sides of the head) and transferred to the areas where hair has been lost.

Mr Greg Williams, Hair transplant The results are usually long lasting. He surgeon, Farjo Hair says, "The harvesting of donor hairs Institute, Manchester IG: @drgregwilliamsuk can be done in two ways: follicular unit excision or linear strip excision (commonly referred to as strip follicular unit transplantation or, erroneously, just as follicular unit transplantation/FUT).

Sometimes, the two techniques can be combined in one procedure." Mr Williams adds that the hair harvesting method does not have an impact on the appearance of the hair transplant or how many hairs you will get.

Linear strip excision: This is regarded as the more traditional method where a surgeon will cut out a strip of scalp skin with healthy hair. The wound is then sutured or stapled closed, resulting in a linear scar which, ideally, will be hidden by the surrounding hair. The strip is then dissected into the naturally occurring groups of hairs known as follicular units which will have one to four (occasionally five or six) individual hair follicles. These follicular units are then implanted into tiny incisions in the recipient area using either forceps or implanters. The hair has to be permanently worn long enough to cover the linear scar but the surrounding hair density is not significantly affected.

Follicular unit excision: This method involves the follicular units being extracted individually in the donor area rather than as a part of a strip, so instead of leaving a single linear scar, follicular unit excision leaves multiple small round scars that are much easier to hide with a short haircut. The number of small round scars equates to the number of follicular units excised. The follicular unit grafts are then transplanted in the same way as strip grafts. Whilst this method is less painful post operatively than using the linear strip excision method, usually fewer hairs are available for transplantation both in a single procedure and over multiple procedures, which can be a problem if large areas of balding scalp require coverage. In addition, the density of the hair in the donor zone is decreased which can be visually apparent if very large numbers of follicular units are harvested and the hair is worn short.

Who is suitable for a hair transplant?

When getting a hair transplant, it is not as simple as just booking in. When being considered for the procedure, your age; current hair loss rate; hereditory factors, the

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amount of hair available at the donor site; lifestyle choices; and your general medical health, are taken into account according to Mr Williams.

He explains there is no universally agreed formula for deciding on suitability for a hair transplant – each patient’s needs and expectations should be considered on a case by case basis. Crucially, the surgeon also needs to try and predict whether the patient is likely to have progressive hair loss and how quickly this might occur. Mr Williams adds, "This is because hair transplants can take up to 18 months for the final results to be apparent, and by the time the transplanted hairs are fully mature, the rest of the non-transplanted hair might have deteriorated. This is particularly important when transplanting to the hairline, temples or crown because by the time the transplant procedure result is judged, the surrounding hair might have receded behind or around the transplanted hairs, leaving gaps." Mr Williams emphasises that if the hair is in a rapidly progressing phase of deterioration, it might be better to delay getting a transplant and instead try some of the nonsurgical treatments that are available and to slow down or prevent further hair loss.

Considerations for hair transplants

Mr Greg Williams

important to know who the person is who will be operating on you. It is this practitioner who should be making the surgical planning decisions including the number of follicular unit grafts (or hairs) required, the donor harvesting method, and the transplant design. As part of informed consent, the non-surgical options should be discussed as well as the option of doing nothing, and after having a medical consultation." He adds that it is important for you to also have a cooling-off period to reflect and make sure it is definitely something you want to go ahead with, emphasising that you should not be swayed by hard pressure sales tactics or financial inducements.

Look at your options Both Mr Williams and Dr Wilson note that men are often anxious or embarrassed to seek help for their hair loss, but says there is no shame in looking at your options.

Dr Wilson says, “About 60% of men experience hair loss by age 60 – it’s extremely common! There are so many different treatments out there, so if it’s bothering you, book in with a professional to get yourself a proper diagnosis. The sooner you make the appointment with your doctor or dermatologist, the quicker your concern can be remedied! Getting your hair back or at least slowing down its thinning can be a huge confidence boost for lots of men, and it really can change your everyday life.”

For more information on hair restoration treatments, and what you should consider, you can visit the websites of the below associations.

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WORDS: HOLLY CARVER PHOTOGRAPHY: VISIBLE BY HANNAH

Like many other aesthetic procedures, hair transplant surgery has limited regulation in the UK. Mr Williams explains that this has led to many patients being exploited. He comments, “Currently in the UK, hair transplants are labelled as being ‘cosmetic’ instead of ‘medical’. In addition, the FUE technique of donor hair harvesting is seen by some doctors as non-surgical which has led to the inappropriate delegation of the skin incisions to non-doctors.”

He also says, “If you are looking into getting a hair transplant done, I advise you check that the clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission in England, The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority in Northern Ireland, Healthcare Improvement Scotland or Healthcare Inspectorate Wales depending on where you are having it done.”

Mr Williams advises that the doctor who will be performing the treatment should be listed on the clinic website, along with their qualifications and experience.

He explains, “Sadly a lot of patients are not told from the onset who will be carrying out their surgical procedure ­– they may just have spoken to a non-medical advisor or business person who owns or manages the clinic. It is

"There is no universally agreed formula for deciding on suitability for a hair transplant – each patient’s needs and expectations should be considered on a case by case basis"

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Bad Skin SOS Skin sufferers often try combating their acne flare-ups with numerous products and at-home remedies. Bad Skin SOS follows three severe acne sufferers who put a range of treatments to the test to try and cure their troublesome skin conditions. If you missed it, you can catch up on My5.

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You can watch the documentary now on BBC iPlayer.

YOUR TOP PICKS If you know of any good shows, podcasts or books that you think we really need to try, send your review to the Beyond Beauty team at hello@beyondbeautylive.com

WORDS: ELLIE HOLDEN

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SA F ETY F I RST

Reputable Organisations The companies and associations that put safety first in aesthetics The non-surgical aesthetics industry is completely unregulated in the UK. Virtually anyone is allowed to perform cosmetic treatments such as dermal fillers and toxin after just a short day of training, which can put you at risk.

While it’s not compulsory for aesthetic practitioners to be a member of any of the groups detailed below, knowing they are can give you some reassurance that the practitioner you have chosen to have treatment with is working to high standards and aims to put your safety first. A number of the groups have advised the Government on regulation and are spear-heading campaigns to improve aesthetic practice.

A note from us…

There are many organisations that do great work to support the aesthetic specialty, while others may have questionable motives. All those listed here have been selected by the Beyond Beauty team following long-standing trusted relationships.

Of course, Beyond Beauty and the organisations mentioned cannot guarantee that members associated with them comply with all standards set, so those seeking aesthetic treatment are always encouraged to do their own thorough research before choosing a practitioner.

We would always encourage you to undergo injectable aesthetic treatment with a medical practitioner who has appropriate insurance cover. To ensure your practitioner is medicallyqualified and does not have any restrictions on their practice, you should look them up on the relevant regulatory body register. These include the General Medical Council, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, the General Dental Council and the General Pharmaceutical Council.

FOR MORE INFO ON EACH GROUP VISIT WWW.BEYONDBEAUTY.CO.UK

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