Over the years, I have been very vocal about my views and concerns regarding the use of injectables and invasive anti-ageing treatments. I’ve often been quite shocked to see how people have altered the character of their faces through the use of Botox, fillers, and other injectables, as well as various questionable treatments that have been administered without proper consideration for the client or the individual’s unique facial character. Our personalities are expressed through our faces and the movements they make, so the overuse of such treatments can often freeze and erase the nuances of our lives.
I have also pondered whether these treatments are excessively vain, but that’s a bit contradictory because I am incredibly vain when it comes to my skin and appearance—so perhaps that’s a bit hypocritical on my part. I believe many women, in particular, worry about being labelled as ‘vain’ if they opt for these treatments, but vanity is nothing new and nothing to be ashamed of.
I am a big fan of Jane Austen, and, fortunately for me, my daughter lives in Alton, which is Austen’s country. On a recent visit, I went to Chawton and visited her home, where I bought the only book of hers I hadn’t yet read: Mansfield Park. It was her last novel and was considered very risqué at the time. While reading it, I was astonished to come across the following paragraph: ‘You must get a brown gown, and a white apron, and a mob-cap, and we must make you a few wrinkles, and a little of the crow’s foot at the corner of your eyes, and you will be a very proper little old woman.’
I had never really thought about the vocabulary we use to describe the signs of ageing and when these terms first came into use, but clearly, they’ve been around for a long time, as Mansfield Park was written between 1811 and 1813—so at least 200 years ago, wrinkles and crow’s feet, as she called them, were considered signs of being an old woman. Frankly, I have no desire to appear as an old woman. While I hope to live to a ripe old age, I don’t want to be described as such due to the presence of wrinkles and said crow’s feet!
Recently, I have begun to reassess my opinion on what we now call ‘Medi-Cosmetic’ procedures. This change in perspective is because I have seen the work of an incredibly skilled practitioner in the field of injectables and fillers. Here at Coogan Bergin, we are fortunate to have formed a partnership with Dr Mai Nguyen, who now holds clinics with us on a monthly or six-week basis.
I can honestly say that our core client base, particularly our skincare clients, is probably the most dedicated group of people we could wish for in terms of their commitment to regular skin treatments and homecare routines. They are truly invested in their skin’s care, and despite their efforts, many feel they still look tired. They are asking what more they can do to address this.
I once said I would never have anything invasive done, but two months ago, I decided to have my tear troughs filled. Having been quite unwell over the past two years, my under-eye area, while not lined, had become very hollow and dark due to medication and lack of sleep. Dr Mai advised me that I could restore lost volume to this area, and I have been astonished by the effect it has had. I’ve started to think, why not take advantage of this assistance if it’s available?
From speaking with clients who have also taken the plunge, even those who never thought they would, the feedback has been 100% positive. People have remarked that they look really good and fresh, without others noticing that they’ve had work done.
I’ve reached a point where I think, what does it matter if you choose to have some assistance to maintain a fresh, youthful appearance? My experience with Dr Mai has opened my mind to medi-aesthetics in a way I never imagined because I’ve seen that, if done with a keen eye and by a sympathetic practitioner who isn’t just in it for financial gain, these treatments can be done thoughtfully. Dr Mai will look at you and the character of your face and will honestly say whether or not you need a particular treatment, or if perhaps something else would be more appropriate to refresh your appearance without altering it.
So, to those of you who are passionate about your skincare, who have invested in it over the years and will, I’m sure, continue to do so—if you feel like you need a little pick-me-up, I encourage you to think seriously about it and make an appointment with Dr Mai. Her next clinic with us is on Wednesday, 28th August, and appointments are still available. You can book an appointment online for an initial consultation, which allows time for both the consultation and any treatment that may be agreed upon.
You will look refreshed and rejuvenated, and you’ll truly appreciate the care you’ve taken of your skin over the years as it fantastically comes to life.
If you have any questions about the treatments offered by Dr Mai, please feel free to contact me or Debbie, and we will be happy to answer your queries to the best of our ability. You can find her list of services under the Aesthetic Medical Treatment section on our website.
