Search this site

Currently, we are feeling the pinch with questions looming over the financial security and threats of another recession- so should we consider cutting back on treatments such as facial? Before we answer that question lest consider what benefits facials can offer Deep Cleanse No matter how well I cleanse I can almost guarantee it's never as efficient as a facial. One of the primary benefits of regular facials is deep cleansing and exfoliation, which help remove impurities, dead skin cells, and debris from the skin's surface. Different facials use different steps and modalities but I love the Aqua3 hydra facial for that deep cleanse, I really notice my pores are less congested and it just looks and feels so much cleaner. Texture and Tone Removing dead skin cells promotes cellular turnover, some facial will do this with mild acids, mechanical exfoliation, or a combination of both. Exfoliation encourages the growth of new, healthy skin cells, resulting in brighter more luminous skin with a smoother softer texture. Hydration and Nourishment Skin like all the other organs in our body needs nutrition and hydration. Unless we give skin what it needs to produce new cells it is unlikely to be a healthy effective skin barrier. Facials are an ideal list to boost both hydration and nutrition. They can be used to introduce hydrating masks, serums, and moisturisers all tailored to your skin's specific needs. These nourishing ingredients replenish moisture, restore balance, and enhance skin hydration, leaving your complexion plump, supple, and glowing. Targeted specific Skin Concerns: The right facial can be a game changer if you have skin issues such as acne, congested skin, hyperpigmentation, or even rosacea. They can be customised to include energy-based devices such as lasers or radio frequency to target your specific skin care goal. Combining regular medical-grade skin care with the right facial for your skincare concern can power charge your skin goal results. Support Product Absorption: By removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, regular facials can improve the absorption and effectiveness of skincare products. Clean, exfoliated skin allows serums, hydration, and other treatments to penetrate more deeply, maximising their benefits and delivering visible results. Collagen production Youthful skin is dense in collagen and elastin fibers, that's why it looks smooth. As we age we lose collagen and elastin. For skin to retain its youthful plump appearance we need to ensure we actively promote collagen and elastin production. Regular facial can help prevent some of the signs of aging by promoting collagen and elastin production. Regular facials also help promote a healthy skin barrier which can help you maintain a youthful, vibrant complexion for years to come. Learning from the experts During your facial appointments, we can help you identify which key skin care products can help target your specific skin care needs, this will be ingredients you can adopt and use at home to maintain and enhance your results. By establishing a skincare regimen tailored to your unique needs, you can prolong the benefits of your facials and achieve long-term skin health They are good for the soul! In addition to their skincare benefits, facials offer a blissful escape from the stresses of everyday life. The soothing touch of massage and gentle pampering can help reduce tension, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being. So to answer the question: Are Facials a worthwhile investment? For us, it’s an absolute yes!

How many times on social media have you seen amazing weight loss before and after with people “selling” a magic drink or supplement that just burns the fat away? You know this is bull but in our desperation to lose weight many parts with their cash, just in case this is the magic trick! Time for the truth! There is no single strategy- even medicated programmes need you to take ownership and work towards change. We have written you a blog with what we consider our core advice. We have seen so much poop on social media telling patients a shortcut to losing weight, claims such as drinking a usually overpriced drink or supplements seem to be a favourite with those looking to make a quick buck off other people's misery- well I’m here to call it all a big pile of poop! I have spent 40 years dieting and I’ve spent more than I care to think about on the next latest trick to shift weight. None of it worked! So how did I crack the battle of the bulge? In 1996 I suddenly took a long hard look at myself and cried. I had the choice of staying a size 24 or changing my life. I changed my life- was it easy- no, not one single day- even now I can have periods of real struggle. If I could only bottle and sell where I suddenly got the pure and absolute determination form I would have retired a long time ago! The reason why more than 50% of the UK population is overweight is multifactorial so it stands to reason no single strategy will work, so these are our recommendations: The right approach and mindset, in our opinion, is the one factor that will help keep you on track and cope with the highs and lows of losing weight. Most of us can go on a diet, initially lose some weight, and feel the elation when the scales are going in our favour however that high can quickly become a valley of despair when the scales no longer align with our efforts! Being kind to yourself and pressing the reset button after a bad day is a strategy that will help- but that is not easy to do. Other tried-and-tested strategies do work but let's be honest- if you don’t learn to forgive yourself when things don’t go well you are unlikely to unlock the path to successful weight loss. What you eat counts! You need a balanced diet! You may benefit from working with a registered dietitian to develop a personalised meal plan tailored to your dietary preferences and weight loss goals Incorp recumbent whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats in your diet and limit processed foods, sugary snacks and drinks. Look at your portions, avoid snacking between meals, Avoid beverages high in calories and added sugars. Activity counts, if you are inactive you will need to eat less. So get moving! There are always little ways you can incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, it might be unrealistic to expect you to achieve the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. However start with small steps, a 10-minute walk 3 days a week can build into something bigger- again just be kind and do what you can. Find activities you enjoy, whether it's walking, swimming, cycling, dancing, or strength training. Boredom is a common reason people give up on exercise, Mix up your workouts, as well as prevent boredom it will challenge different muscle groups. Exercise needs to be regular, you need to make it a priority, and put time in your diary for you! This is your time! Do it for you! Sleep has a huge impact on success! Inadequate sleep disrupts hunger hormones and increases cravings for high-calorie foods, a really simple strategy that costs absolutely nothing is trying to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. If you are a poor sleeper, look at factors that could be hurting the quality of your sleep. Common issues that hurt your sleeping is overstimulation from electronic devices before bedtime-limit exposure and you may find you sleep better. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and establish a consistent sleep schedule. Reduce Stress Chronic stress releases cortisol, this hormone causes your body to go into flight or fight mode. When this happens your body thinks it needs to eat in case you need energy quickly to run away! You need to employ strategies which can help reduce your stress levels, what works for one person will not work for another so find your tool and use it regularly. Some find strategies such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or going out for a walk calming. You just need to try different strategies till you find what works for you. If you find you are a stress eater, identify your triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms. We can't stress this enough (excuse the pun!), prioritize self-care. Activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones. Hydrated is essential Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support your metabolism. Opt for water or unsweetened beverages instead of sugary drinks or calorie-laden cocktails. Keep a reusable water bottle with you to encourage regular hydration, especially during workouts or hot weather. Be Realistic If you’ve been overweight for 20 years you are not going to wake up in a week and be your ideal body size. Establish achievable and realistic weight loss goals, aiming for slow gradual progress rather than rapid results. Rapid off rapid on! Celebrate small victories along the way and recognize that setbacks are a normal part of the journey, again be kind to yourself. Focus on non-scale victories such as improved energy levels, increased strength, or better mood. One thing I think destroys most people's attempts is being focused on the number displayed on the scales. Monthly weight checks are enough! Focus on non-scale victories such as improved energy levels, increased strength, or better mood. Get someone on your side! Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family members, or a weight loss community who can encourage and motivate you. If you manage to go to the gym get a little group of friends to go together- a buddy group, this will help both with consistency in exercise. Consider joining a weight loss program or working with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, a member of the medically managed national medical weight loss program, or a certified personal trainer. They can all help you reach your goal. Be Patient and Persistent Understand that sustainable weight loss takes time and requires patience, consistency, and perseverance. Slow weight loss is often more sustainable and easier to keep off. Stay committed to your healthy habits even when progress seems slow, trusting that small changes will add up over time. Remember that weight loss is not just about reaching a number on the scale but about improving your overall health and well-being. If you have failed with attempts to lose weight for several years a health check from your GP may be beneficial to check your blood counts and thyroid levels. The only person who can truly make a change is you, learn to love and be kind to yourself, and make a journey towards a healthier, happier you. Remember, the key is finding what works best for you and staying committed to your goals, one step at a time. Incorporating these strategies into your lifestyle and making gradual changes over time, is more likely to help you lose but more importantly keep the weight off.

Rosacea is a common presenting complaint in the clinic, originally thought to be predominantly affecting the Celtic skin types, however with the development of technology such as the Observe skin scanners we can see it in all ethnicities. It is often misdiagnosed as acne. Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing skin sensitivity, ruddy or flushed skin, visible/broken blood vessels, and in severe cases, bumps and pimples. This condition typically manifests as redness on the central face, including the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Although its exact cause remains unknown, factors like genetics, abnormal blood vessels, and inflammatory reactions are believed to play significant roles. Triggers such as sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and certain skincare products can exacerbate symptoms. As this is a chronic skin condition the objective is to manage the symptoms to make life as comfortable as possible for those affected. Traditional strategies will be explored in a separate blog however here we are exploring an emerging avenue of treatment gaining attention which is the use of Botox injections. Botox, is the common name most people use when talking about Botulinum Toxin Type A, for ease of writing and reading this blog we will use this terminology, however, please note this is just a brand name. This is a prescription-only medication used for numerous health indications but it is primarily known for its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It does this by temporarily paralysing muscles that contribute to the development of wrinkles. Recent studies suggest that Botox injections may also offer therapeutic benefits for rosacea patients. This is an off-label indication so must be discussed with your healthcare provider. The therapeutic response is believed to be from 3 different actions. Neurogenic Inflammation: Rosacea involves heightened neurogenic inflammation, where nerve endings release substances that trigger inflammatory responses. Botox is thought to interrupt this process by blocking the release of neurotransmitters. This in turn reduces inflammation leading to a reduction of rosacea symptoms such as redness Vasodilation: Blood vessel dilation is a hallmark feature of rosacea, contributing to facial redness. Botox injections may help in constricting blood vessels, leading to decreased redness and visible blood vessels. Sebum Production: Some studies suggest that Botox injections could also regulate sebum production, which may benefit individuals with rosacea, particularly those prone to papules and pustules. While the concept of using Botox for rosacea is relatively new, there is growing interest and research in this area. Several small-scale studies and anecdotal reports have shown promising results in reducing rosacea symptoms, including redness and flushing, with Botox injections. A systematic review in 2021 showed improvement in ALL patient's signs and symptoms compared with baseline. However, larger, controlled clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and safety definitively. As with any medical procedure, Botox injections for rosacea treatment come with potential side effects and considerations. These may include temporary bruising, swelling, headache, or eyelid drooping (ptosis) or temporary unwanted muscle paralysis that could affect your smile. If you are interested in reading more Zhang et al, 2021, Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Explore much of the research on this subject.

We live in a society where more than 50% of adults in the UK have an unhealthy BMI that increases the risk of long-term health concerns. The causes of obesity are complex, it is not because someone is lazy or greedy. Many factors such as a dysregulation of hormones such as leptin, ghrelin and insulin impact our ability to regulate our blood sugar or control our hunger. Additional factors such as stress responses, poor access to healthy food choices or hectic lifestyles make it difficult to create time to prepare and choose healthy foods or plan time to exercise. A quick search on the internet for weight loss intervention will bring up 309,000,000 hits. Traditional strategies such as adopting a healthy well-balanced diet and regular exercise need to be the cornerstone of any weight loss intervention. These are not easy to adopt or sustain. This sees many desperate individuals adopting fad diets, extreme short-term interventions or even dangerous high-risk surgical interventions. This demonstrates the significance of this problem and how desperate many individuals are to resolve it. Conventional methods are failing to help address obesity for numerous reasons and as a result type II diabetes is on the increase. This medication was being evaluated as a strategy to help stabilise blood sugar and insulin production in patients with type II diabetes, it was during these clinical trials that researchers discovered how successful this medication was at helping people lose weight. This medication was originally called Semaglutide. When this was first introduced to the market as a treatment to help people with an unhealthy BMI lose weight, it had a 12-hour half-life and had to be injected every day. Further research and development saw the half-life change to 7 days, when the clinical trials were completed, a higher percentage of excess body weight was lost. At this point, the medication was called Ozempic. Further research examined the dosing structure, this was changed and it was renamed as Wegovy. The higher dose was also associated with increased weight loss. Measuring tape and diet pills on a coloured background close-up. Diet plan, nutritional supplements, fat loss aid, weight control. Wegovy and Ozempic are both prescription medications classed as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These are synthetic versions of the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Both these medications are administered via subcutaneous injection once a week. GLP-1 medications (Wegovy and Ozempic) have been shown to improve blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles. Clinical studies have shown average weight loss in excess of 15-20%. They have the potential to reduce many of the obesity-related complications such as hypertension, type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease. As well as having an impact on metabolic parameters they also slow the progress of food through the gastrointestinal tract which in turn gives a feeling of fullness for longer. This also encourages patients to eat less and also contributes to weight loss. However, this can contribute to many of the side effects associated with these medications. These include reflux, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. In the majority of patients side effects are usually mild to moderate in severity and tend to improve over time. However, some individuals may experience more significant adverse reactions, so it's essential to discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider and discuss strategies to help avoid and manage the potential side effects. Developing an unhealthy BMI is very rarely due to a short-term issue but tends to be an issue that a person has been dealing with for a long time. If this was classified as a medical condition it would be classed as a chronic health condition such as hypertension or type II diabetes. In this chronic condition, medications are used to treat the disorder and reduce the negative long-term health impacts. You would likely be on this medication for life. With that in mind can you use weight loss medication short term? Yes, If you are looking for a tool to help you tackle your weight issues these medications can be very successful for the correct patient. However, if you don’t engage in traditional strategies such as healthy calorie-controlled diets and exercise you are likely to return to your original weight when you stop taking the medication. So is this a wonder drug that can cure obesity and help everyone lose weight? No, Not everyone is a candidate for Wegovy or Ozempic. These medications are indicated for adults with a BMI above 30 or greater than 27 if the patient has weight-related co-morbidities. They are only suitable when traditional weight loss interventions have been tried and failed. Patients need a careful evaluation to determine eligibility for this treatment and to confirm this medication is not contraindicated or likely to make them very ill. There are pros and cons with all medical interventions and patients should have a full and clear understanding of both the short-term benefits and the long-term implications. Many patients use Wegovy and Ozempic to lose weight but also for sustained maintenance helping individuals maintain a healthier weight over the long term. However, we cant stress enough it's only a tool, you need to adopt sustainable lifestyle changes to maximise the benefits of treatment. Wegovy and Ozempic represent exciting advancements in the field of weight loss medication, offering effective and convenient options for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight. While these medications have shown significant benefits in terms of weight loss and metabolic health, they are not without potential risks and considerations. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to assess their suitability for treatment and develop a comprehensive plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications for long-term success. Unfortunately, like most medications in the UK counterfeit products are available from unregulated sources, in some cases the drug sold was not Wegovy or Ozempic but Insulin. This has hospitalised a few patients so please be careful and choose a regulated source. Yes, they are more expensive but that is because of the cost of the genuine product. As always we wish you to stay healthy and happy no matter which intervention you choose. With the right support and guidance, individuals can unlock the transformative potential of Wegovy and Ozempic on their journey towards achieving a healthier weight and improved overall well-being.

There can be no doubt that we care about what we look like, while some consider this vanity others feel that it helps them feel better, in fact there a lot of published research that proves treatments which help you look fresher and less aged actually have a positive impact on your mental health. One of the most well-known and well researched treatments is Botulinum toxin. But what exactly is Botulinum toxin? There many brands of Botulinum toxin, the most commonly know one is called Botox but this is just a brand name and the term most people know. Other brands such a Nucevia, Boccautue, Azzalure and Dysport are widely used in the UK but for the purpose of this blog we will refer to the treatment as botox. When used in cosmetic procedures, Botox is injected into specific muscles to temporarily paralyse them. This results in a smoother, more youthful appearance by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. So why has Botox become the number 1 solution for treating fine lines and wrinkle? Getting Botox is a relatively quick and straight forward procedure. After a consultation with a trained medical professional, the Botox is injected into targeted areas using a fine needle. The injections are usually well-tolerated and require minimal downtime, making Botox an attractive option for those with busy schedules. Botox temporarily paralyses the underlying muscles, as the muscles relax fine lines and wrinkle become less visible giving the skin a smoother more youthful appearance. Botox is also used to treat numerous medical conditions such as migraines, muscle spasms and excessive sweating. Botox It is generally safe when administered by a qualified professional however there are some things to consider before undergoing treatment. Scotland was recently named as the the the worst place in Europe to get botched procedures. Botox is one of the most commonly botched procedure, however this is nearly aways down to the uses of illegally imported Botox. Illegal Botox, often referred to as black-market Botox, present significant risks to individuals seeking cosmetic enhancements. Black market Botox may contain unknown substances or incorrect dosages, increasing the risk of infections, allergic reactions, and disfigurement. Black Market Botox is often performed by unlicensed providers in non-medical settings, leading to a higher likelihood of complications and adverse effects. Individuals considering Botox treatments should always prioritise their safety and well-being by seeking services from licensed and reputable medical professionals to ensure proper treatment and minimise potential risks associated with illegal procedures. All treatments carry risks but be reassured that Botox, done in the proper environment with properly sourced products give consistent reliable results and has earned its place as a popular choice for those seeking non-invasive cosmetic enhancements. Botox stands out as a powerful option, offering visible results with minimal downtime. Embrace the possibilities of this transformative treatment and unlock a more youthful version of yourself today! Our number 1 piece of advice: If you're considering Botox, be sure to consult with a qualified professional to explore how this treatment can help you achieve a more youthful and revitalised appearance. We hope you found this information helpful! If you have any more questions about Botox or any other topic, feel free to ask.

The question should really be why not! The landscape around aesthetic medicine is likely to shift dramatically in the next few years. This is predominantly to protect the public. As these changes come into play there is a strong likely hood that changes in the way non prescribing nurses offer services will need to evolve. It is anticipated that the drive to increase patient safety will stimulate a change in practice where a prescribing health professional will need to be on site during all treatments where a prescribed medication is used, or the management of a complication from a treatment needs a prescribed medication (such as hyaluronidase to manage a vascular occlusion from dermal fillers). This is already the case in Scotland. Autonomous practice As an independent nurse prescriber you will have the ability to work independently with complete autonomy over the patients journey ensuring you provide a comprehensive service in a timely manner to all your patients. Patient are likely to see you as more trustworthy and in a more favourable light if they do not need to see an additional prescribing Health Care Providers. Development of critical thinking skills. Prescribing qualification are at masters level which will encourage critical thinking, this will then help you question your own and others practice to help you identify areas for improvement. Greater comprehension of drug interaction You are also like to develop a greater understanding of both pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics, this will increase your overall ability to identify potential drug interactions. This will ensure any prescription medication based treatments you offer are safe and appropriate. Holding stock. In Scotland, and this may extend to the rest of the UK, you will have the advantage of holding stock rather than ordering prescription medication on a patient named basis. This is likely to mean you will be able to order in larger quantities and negotiate more favourable rates. You will legally be able to stock emergency medication. You are also more likely to be able to expend your portfolio of services. A great example of this is prescription based skin care. You will legally be able to stock emergency medication. Cost effective There is also the obvious saving on prescribing costs. In addition the patients only need to see one professional thus saving the patient time as well as reducing the need for them to go over their PMH and past aesthetic experiences twice. Increased knowledge Becoming a nurse prescriber demands a higher degree of professional responsibility and accountability and there has to be an appreciation that this comes with significant responsibilities, decisions made require an appreciation the there could be consequences of actions or inaction. As an independent nurse prescriber you must abide by the code of conduct and only prescribe with in you area of competence. There can be no doubt that this qualification will make you a more knowledgeable nurse who will almost definitely be able to offer a higher level of patient care. There are wide scale studies which suggest nurse prescribers have higher patient satisfaction, patients have better adherence to prescribed medications and there is a reduction in over prescribing of medications. While these studies are not within the field of aesthetic medicine is stands to reason the findings should be transferable.The BACN is looking to support aesthetic nurses through this qualification and is offering advice on which universities support aesthetic nurses becoming prescribers, help you connect with mentors and potentially with a Designated Medical Practitioner /Clinical supervisor, and is offering some financial support in the form of a grant. There has never been a more important time to consider extending both your knowledge and your professional qualification!

Facial exercises are thought to help the appearance of jowls, however, research shows mixed results so in our opinion we think results may be limited there is no harm in trying some and judging your results. However, exercises could potentially help with muscle weakness which is a contributing factor to the development of jowls but as there are many other contributing factors your results will improve if you also treat these. There are several treatments available for improving skin quality and tightening loose skin. Let’s explore some of them: Injectable moisture treatments: These treatments focus on hydrating the skin from within. While they may not be the first choice for tightening loose skin, they promote \"bio-remodelling\" of the skin. In other words, they encourage the skin to regenerate itself and produce more collagen and elastin. Prophilo, skin boosters and polynucleotides are great options in this category. Another group of injectables are products that stimulate collagen by causing an inflammatory action, these are products such as Sculptra and Ellanse. This can result in stronger, smoother, and tighter skin. Dermal Fillers can be injected into the cheeks to fill in the spaces where there is volume that has been lost from the face. Restoring some of the lost volume can show a subtle lift in the skin around the jawline and corners of the mouth. Fillers are typically more effective in people between the ages of 30 and 50. In people over the age of 50, additional procedures may be undertaken alongside fillers. To redefine the jawline, wrinkle-relaxing injections, such as toxins, can be used strategically. These injections are not just aimed at smoothing wrinkles, but also at relaxing the muscles that contribute to the sagging of the lower jaw and the appearance of jowls. By precisely injecting toxins into these specific muscles, they are released, helping to redefine the jawline. It’s important to note that toxins alone may not completely reshape the jawline, but they can certainly assist. So, if you’re looking to achieve a more sculpted jawline, considering toxin injections (such as Nucevia or Botox) as part of your treatment plan could be beneficial. Many of the above treatments will work better if combined with devices, we recommend considering one of the below options. Sofwave (high-frequency ultrasound treatment): This treatment delivers pulses of energy to the skin, stimulating the production of new collagen. The ultrasound waves penetrate beneath the surface, aiding in the growth of collagen from within. Radiofrequency treatment: By heating the skin to a temperature above 40°C, radiofrequency treatment causes controlled damage to the subdermal layers. This process triggers collagen remodelling, resulting in a tightening effect. The skin then responds by producing more collagen, which helps strengthen, smooth, and firm up the skin. Consistency with a course of treatments is key for optimal results. IPL works very similar to Radiofrequency delivering energy to the skin which stimulates collagen production. IPL can give a mild tightened effect so may not lift well-established jowls however is a good option for those looking at prevention, banking some collagen or treating very early signs of ageing and jowls. Finally, there are surgical options! Book your appointment today.

Structurally when we are young the layers of our face are healthy and robust but as we age these layers individually are affected by the ageing process. The deeper layer is the facial bones, as we age, these lose volume, change shape and become thinner. In some areas of the face, this can be very noticeable, these include the facial bones on either side of the nose, the cheekbones, the bones around the eye socket and the jawbone. There are a series of retaining ligaments which support facial fat pads and skin positioning, and these too lose integrity as we age causing laxity. As muscles and fibrous layers age these too lose integrity so stop supporting the skin. The facial fat pads in adolescents and younger are full and tightly packed next to each other, as we age these deflate and change position, which exacerbates the appearance of jowls. Finally, another factor contributing to the appearance of jowls is the fact that as we age the skin’s fibroblast cells fail to produce quality collagen and elastin, which exacerbates skin laxity making the skin look saggy. Almost everyone who gets older will show the development of jowls, but some factors contribute to their development. These include: history of sunburn excessive or chronic alcohol use smoking chronic or severe dehydration chronic or severe stress diets low in antioxidants, healthful fats, and other essential nutrients habits or expressions that overuse the cheek, mouth, and jaw muscles, such as frowning, chewing gum, and talking on the mobile phone for a long time skin allergens, ranging from air pollution to cosmetics poor skin hygiene lack of exercise cleansing the skin too aggressively physical trauma or injury to the facial and jaw muscles and skin a family history of jowls severe or chronic illness extreme or rapid weight loss Losing weight can have an impact on the face in different ways. If you are older when you lose weight you may develop more noticeable jowls due to the skin laxity, however, if you are younger and lose weight this can lead to positive changes in your appearance. However given, that we are all individuals and structurally individual, weight loss will have a different impact on each of us. While you may get the body you want you may have to accept the face will change and this may not always have a positive impact. Treatments are available to address the negative changes. Ultimately the overriding cause is age-related. As we age the face loses volume from bone reabsorption, lateral fat pad atrophy, medial fat pad hypertrophy, and muscle weakness, but most importantly there is a reduction in the essential connective tissue factors- collagen and elastin. The skin tends to become drier and thinner, making it more difficult to maintain its form. As the skin becomes less resilient and full, it becomes more vulnerable to gravity and slowly begins to sag. We will follow up on this blog with some of our most recommended and effective treatments for jowls. Book an appointment with one of our experts today.

What are skin tags? It is a common and benign skin growth, derived from skin cells and composed of loose fibrous tissue. Skin tags may present either single or multiple and they also may be skin colour or hyper-pigmented. They are not directly related to any health condition although they can be hereditary. Most frequently found on the areas of friction, neck, underarms, groins, around the bra area, etc. They are increasingly common as we get older and affect almost half of the population. Skin tag removal with Diathermy (Non-Surgical) Diathermy is one of the easiest ways to remove unwanted skin tags. Depending on the size and the area of the skin tag it can take from a second to a few minutes! It can be used on the face, on the body and even in between the eyelashes! With the current of energy, we cauterise skin tags until it dries up, or if it's big enough we can "cut" it off from the base of the skin tag. After treatment, the area will develop a small scabby and can be hot and itchy, but the scab and ant remaining dead tissue skin will fall off within a week. You should avoid picking and rubbing the area it's important for the healing process and new skin underneath. We use Sterex Diathermy, this is a leading safe British company supplying over 30 countries. We are Sterex trained and in the clinic, we use only Sterex machines and products to guarantee the best outcomes of the procedure. Surgical Skin Tag Removal Occasionally skin tags can be significant in number or larger than critical to remove with diathermy alone, on this occasion we may remove them surgically. This would require an injection of local anaesthetic You are NOT suitable for Skin Tag Removal if you have: Allergy to stainless steelBlood clotting disordersSkin healing disordersImplanted electrical devices (heart stimulators, hearing devices, etc) Here are some Frequently Asked Questions we receive from our customers relating to Skin Tag Removal: Q. Do skin tags go away on their own? The answer is no. Skin tags are often compared to warts or other benign skin growths, but they are very different conditions. Q. Is it painful to have them removed If using diathermy it can stir a little however if you have a low pain threshold local anaesthetic can be used. With surgical removal local anaesthetic is necessary. Q. Can skin tags be a problem? Skin tags are harmless and don't usually cause pain or discomfort. However, you may consider having skin tags removed if they're affecting your self-esteem, or if they snag on clothing or jewellery and bleed. Q. How Can You Prevent Skin Tags? Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent skin tags from forming. Skin tags can grow over time, becoming even more unsightly, especially if they are invisible areas.

Are you constantly on a diet and struggling to lose weight? Are you concerned about your health? Let's start with some alarming facts about being overweight. Did you know that there are over 106 factors linked to obesity? Many people assume it is due to too much food consumption and too little physical activity but there are many other important factors to consider such as genetics and or epigenetics. More recent studies have shown how it can also be linked to a person’s microbiota (gut bacteria) as well as underlying conditions such as Hypothyroidism and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. However, you are not alone as obesity statistics from the House of Commons 2018 highlighted that 66% of men and 57% of women in the UK were obese or overweight. Excess body weight not only affects our confidence and self-esteem but has several associated health risks. Cancer Research UK has linked 13 types of cancer to being overweight and it’s the biggest preventable cause of cancer after smoking. Due to a lack of NHS funding which has led to a decommissioning of services, people with obesity are no longer able to get support and treatment from their GP. At Julia Hart Skin Clinic we are an accredited provider of the National Medical Weight Loss Programme and we are passionate about promoting and sharing the same vision: “to ensure that every person living with obesity has access to treatment” How Does It Work? Am I suitable? Weight loss medications are indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Together these form part of a weight management programme for patients with a BMI over 30 (obese) or BMI over 27 (overweight) with a weight-related comorbidity such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes or sleep apnoea. For patients with a lower BMI who may not be suitable for weekly weight loss treatments, we offer DNA testing which helps identify which type of diet and exercise are most effective for you. We also have a partnership with a Dietician who can help create a personalised diet plan suited to your taste. As part of suitability, we will assess your readiness to change. We are unable to treat any patients under the age of 18 years. How Is It Carried Out? Depending on your prescription a simple and painless injection into a fatty area such as the abdomen, or thigh is carried out either daily or once a week via an easy-to-use injector pen. As part of your pre-treatment consultation, our nurse prescriber will teach you how and where to inject so that you feel comfortable to self-administer the medication. Contraindications Absolute contraindications include the following: Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma Personal history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2) Hypersensitivity to the product components Pregnancy It is paramount that our patients are suitable before commencing on the programme, other factors taken into consideration before prescribing will include heart, renal and liver disorders. Your suitability will be assessed following a full consultation and pre-treatment assessment with our advanced nurse practitioner. What results will I see? Ultimately you can expect a weight loss, your overall weight loss will be dependent on your dose and duration of the programme.Did you know that even a 5% weight loss can lower your risk of diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, improve your blood pressure, blood lipid profile (cholesterol), osteoarthritic pain, sleep apnoea and importantly improve your health-related quality of life? How long will I need the treatment? Treatment can be continued until your target weight is achieved. Side effects Although not every patient will experience them, short-term side effects may be experienced due to the slowing down of the stomach emptying. Nausea and stomach upset may occur but usually settle within a few weeks of commencing on the medication. Side effects can often be caused by eating too much of or the wrong type of foods, so slight dietary changes can be very effective for reducing these symptoms. What is included in the programme? Initial online consultation assessing BMI and health indicators Face-to-face consultation and assessment with our nurse practitioner. Regular body and weight measurements Weight loss injection prescription (4-week dose pre-filled pen) Needles and sharps box for disposal 3 Monthly weight monitoring and BMI analysis Nutritional advice and ongoing support. Next Steps If you are serious about weight loss and you are looking to improve your health and well-being follow the link below to access our online health screening consultation and readiness to change questionnaire. Once submitted this will be viewed by our nurse practitioner and we will give you a call to arrange a face-to-face consultation and commence you on your weight loss programme if suitable.https://www.nmwlp.co.uk/consultation-form/?clinic=julia-hart-skin-clinic+KY12-8DF

The first phase of consultations into the aesthetics industry has passed and it will be several years before the proposed changes to make the industry safer come to pass. In the mean time there are some things you as an individual can do to keep safe if choosing to get aesthetic treatments. Im not going to labour or discuss the medic versus non medic debate as I thing as a health care professional its clear which side of the debate I’m on. However here are the main differences as I see them. Medically Qualified (Doctors, Nurses, Dentist and prescribing pharmacists) Non medically qualified (Beauty therapists, aesthetic practitioners, hairdressers ect. ) Minimum 3 years university study in one of the above specialties Can begin injecting botox, fillers, steroids, fat dissolving agents ect after a 1 day course with no supervision Registered with a professional body who they are accountable too Not registered or accountable to any governing body or professional organisation Must have medical malpractice insurance. No mandatory requirement to have insurance Mandatory ongoing professional education with a minimum qualification No mandatory requirement Manatory practices which endure patient safety No minimum standards required Experience dealing with infection control measures No clinical experience Answerable for complication No requirement In scotland must be registered with Health Care Improvement scotland No requirement Only use medical grade products form traceable suppliers Can order products from anywhere. Professional training courses must meet minimum competency requirements Anyone, even someone with only a few days experience can set up a training academy with no minimum standards. Patients must have a face to face health assessment and consultation prior to botox which must be prescribed for them No requirement to offer assessment, often treated with illegal botox products as they cannot get prescribing health professional to prescribe for them due to the risks associated with non health care professional Refuse aesthetic treatments to under 18s ( this is illegal) Some still treating under 18s even though they know the law is being broken. There are unfortunately some unscrupulous practitioners who like to manipulate the public into thinking they are health professionals when they are not. Terms such as nurse, medical consultant, clinic ect, are all regularly used by non medics who would like to convict you they are something they are not so beware: here are a few ways you can check if someone is who they are claiming to be: Nurses, doctors and dentists all need to be registered with a governing body, you can check this by looking up the name of the person claiming to be a health professional on these websites. If they have been trained outside the UK they can only practice medicine in the UK if they are registered with their regulatory bogy. Nurses: https://www.nmc.org.uk/registration/search-the-register/ Dentists: https://olr.gdc-uk.org/searchregister Doctors: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/the-medical-register If they have been trained outside the UK they can only practice medicine in the UK if they are registered with their regulatory body so even Doctors offering clinics in the UK have to practice with in this set of rules. An additional check you can make in Scotland is to check they are registered with Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) anyone claiming to be a nurse, Dr or dentist not registered with HIS is breaking the law so should not be considered a safe practitioner. If they are willing to break the law they are likely to be willing to cut corners and increase the risks associate with any treatments! This is the link to check HIS registered clinics and practitioners https://www.healthcareimprovementscotland.org/our_work/inspecting_and_regulating_care/independent_healthcare/find_a_provider_or_service.aspx Additional steps would include registering with a government approved regulatory body, we chose to register with Save Face and to be part of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses. https://www.saveface.co.uk/en/search https://www.bacn.org.uk/practitioner-finder/ Finally if the practitioner is very experienced they may also be on practitioner assessed website such as the Tweakment guide. https://thetweakmentsguide.com/practitioners/ There are many who think this is a witch hunt against non medical but to be blunt its not. The simple truth is we see complications regularly in the clinic and the majority are as a result of non medically qualified practitioners. In addition the alarming figures released recently confirmed that 80% of non medical do not have any insurance! I personally know many experienced and safe non medically qualified practitioners are equally concerned about the lack of regulations and are very keen that the industry is cleaned up. This will reassure the public who chose to get procedures outside a medical lead clinic environment that they will be treated safely and with respect. If you do choose to be treated with a practitioner out side the medical professional group the minimum checks you should do is check which products are being injected and if they have valid insurance for that product. We wish all who choose to get aesthetic treatments happy and safe outcomes.

It's been a hectic week after a trip to the British Association of Cosmetic Nursing, but this trip was a little different! I was a presenter- this is a tremendous honour, and I'm so proud that all our work to improve patient safety is recognised and supported. One of the most significant innovative advancements was the introduction of Ultrasound Scanning (USS) to aesthetic medicine; this can improve patient safety and reduce adverse events such as bruising and risk of occlusion. It can also aid the efficacy of results and add to the diagnosis of underlying conditions such as natural asymmetry. During my career, I was fortunate enough to develop the skills and knowledge to perform and interpret US and integrating this into my practice has been relatively simple. The BAUN recognised that I am leading the use of US within the nursing sector and asked if it would present a case where US was fundamental in improving patient outcomes. I gave a point where a young lady had a congenital facial asymmetry. Part of her treatment plan was to ensure we treated a particular muscle contraction in an area of the face where numerous muscles converge; treating the wrong power could either exacerbate the problem or cause missing strength to mean there was no improvement. Using ultrasound-guided injections, we improved this patient's asymmetry significantly. This innovative approach resulted in a symmetrical simile, and our patient was delighted. This trip was rewarding in so many ways. I met some incredibly talented nurses who strive to improve patient safety and industry standards. I've had several otters present, develop educational programmes and teach advanced techniques. The next few months will be hectic! On top of that, I wasn't busy enough. I've decided to work with a cosmetic product manufacturer to introduce a more affordable skincare range to the clinic with high-quality, effective ingredients. We will be looking for five patients to test this range once we are out of the research and development phase, so if this interests you, please get in touch.