Booking your first treatment is exciting but can also be a daunting experience. Whether you're looking to smooth out wrinkles, treat acne breakouts, try non-invasive body contouring or just keep your skin looking healthy and radiant, there are so many options available that it can feel overwhelming. If you're new to the world of aesthetic procedures, just keep reading and we'll give you all the important info you need to feel more confident before taking the plunge.
As you begin your journey into the world of facials, peels, injectables, lasers and other advanced machines, it's important to consider not only the physical changes you hope to achieve but also the mental and emotional aspects of undergoing these procedures. Here at The Hampton Clinic, we believe the goal should always be to enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence, not make you look like someone else. Our focus is to use treatments to enhance your unique beauty and so should be yours! Take the time to reflect on why you're seeking out aesthetic treatments and what you hope to gain from them.
The first and most important step before booking a treatment is to research the different procedures, machines and the providers that offer them. When it comes to choosing an aesthetic clinic, look for its reputation. A reputable clinic will have a track record of providing excellent care. Reading online reviews from current clients will give you valuable insight into the clinic's quality of service and the experiences of others who have received treatment there.
It's also a good idea to find an aesthetic clinic that offers obligation-free consultations, as these allow you to ask questions and discuss your concerns without feeling pressured or rushed. Don't be afraid to clarify all your questions and express any concerns you have before moving forward with a treatment. Open communication with your aesthetic practitioner is key to a successful treatment plan and a positive experience overall.
From facials and peels to microneedling, injectables, HIFU, lasers and all the different body sculpting machines, each treatment offers different benefits and is suitable for a specific concern or skin type. Only during a thorough consultation will you be able to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your individual needs.
During a consultation with us, we’ll discuss your medical history, allergies and any medications you are taking to make sure only safe procedures are recommended. Our practitioners will also explain the procedure in detail, including what to expect during and after the treatment, plus what realistic results to anticipate.
To maximise the effectiveness and guarantee safety of your aesthetic treatment, you’ll be expected to follow some general pre-treatment guidelines. These guidelines will change depending on your individual circumstances and on your chosen treatments, but some of the most common pre-care instructions include:
- Avoiding sun exposure, especially when it comes to laser facials, tattoo removal, laser hair removal and other light-based treatments.
- Following a gentle skincare routine for a few days to a couple weeks before treatment. This includes avoiding acid exfoliants, retinoids and other strong active ingredients as recommended by your aesthetic practitioner.
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking, as these can affect your skin's healing process. This is particularly true for more invasive procedures such as cosmetic injectables and for body contouring programmes.
- Planning for downtime, as some ablative lasers, injectables and microneedling treatments might cause redness or swelling for a few days and shouldn’t be done before an important event.
Similarly to following the pre-treatment instructions, you will receive specific aftercare advice to follow after your treatment to ensure adequate healing and great results. This advice will change depending on your circumstances and on what treatments you’ve had, but some of the most common aftercare instructions are:
- Avoiding sun exposure and heat such as saunas and steam rooms, especially when it comes to any type of facial treatment or laser-based body procedures.
- Follow any given skincare recommendations, avoiding harsh or irritating substances.
- Keep well hydrated, especially when it comes to body sculpting treatments, as this will help your body’s lymphatic system efficiently flush out toxins and metabolic waste.
Depending on the treatment, you may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired results. Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended by your aesthetic practitioner to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Here at The Hampton Clinic, we are dedicated to providing you with a safe and comfortable experience. Our friendly staff is happy to answer any questions so don't hesitate to reach out if you’d like to enquiry about a treatment or book a consultation.