Information Sources for Non-Surgical Treatments and Cosmetic Procedures

Secret Number 1

Where can I go for objective, unbiased information about

non-surgical treatments and cosmetic procedures?

You want to find out if you can improve the condition of your skin, maybe get rid of the odd blemish or two, offset the effects of ageing, or achieve that sleek ‘hair free’ look without shaving or waxing.  You’ve read a bit about non-surgical treatments and cosmetic procedures but are wondering if it’s all a bit too good to be true and who to trust.

This guide is for you. Its purpose is to show you where to find straightforward objective information and advice free from commercial bias and spin.

For certain skin conditions you should start with your GP, get an accurate diagnosis, and find out what is available from the NHS.  For example, if acne is your concern, your GP will have a lot of experience of acne patients and will know how antibiotics and prescription drugs like roaccutane can work very well.  They will be able to discuss the drawbacks and possible side effects of these medical solutions, but probably won’t be able to advise you on the alternatives made possible by advances in non-surgical treatments such as light treatments, peels and microdermabrasion.  As a result you will not be getting the full picture of possible solutions and you will need to do more research on the internet.

Even though non-surgical treatments and cosmetic procedures lie outside the realm of the NHS, the government still has a role to play and has provided some useful sources of information for you. To start with, on the Department of Health’s website there are 2 guides:  Considering Cosmetic Surgery? and  Considering Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures?  There’s even an A-Z List of Cosmetic Procedures .

Then there’s another agency called the Care Quality Commission, which used to be known as the Healthcare Commission.  Reputable aesthetic/ cosmetic treatment providers in the UK are registered, audited and inspected by the Care Quality Commission.  The Commission ensures that clinics that offer cosmetic surgery, or offer cosmetic procedures that involve lasers or intense pulsed lights operate to the Government’s minimum national standards.  On their website you can read how they assess independent healthcare providers.  And there’s a search facility so you can check up on and read reports, if available, about your chosen registered provider.

Cosmetic surgeons have their own association – the British Association of Cosmetic Surgeons or BAAPS.  This is not a regulatory organization, but was formed for “the advancement of education in, and the practice of, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery for public benefit.”  Having said that, BAAPS is very vocal about maintaining the highest professional standards, not only within its own membership but also within the wider aesthetic/ cosmetic community.  There is no equivalent organization for non-surgical treatment specialists.

BAAPS has published useful Consumer Safety Guidelines that make good common sense.  However I would just take issue with their warning to beware of free consultations on the basis that nothing in life is free.  We have always had a policy of free consultations so that you have the chance to ask your questions face to face before committing to anything or spending any money.  That’s only fair isn’t it, but I guess Surgeons like to charge for everything and so feel they need to protect their position.  SkinGenesis consultations really are free - with no strings attached!

Self help groups such as the Acne Support group can be an invaluable source of information as well as offering support and forums for acne sufferers.  We have involved the Acne Support Group in training our skin specialists and our successful acne programmes have developed as a result.  Unfortunately, at the time of writing, their website is down so I can’t give you a link but they can be reached at PO Box 9, Newquay, Cornwall TR9 6WG , UK . Tel: 0870 870 2263

For other skin problems have a look at the British Association of Dermatologists FAQs and their list of Support Groups for skin diseases.

Finally, Which? magazine has investigated the cosmetic treatment ‘industry’ and is campaigning for a more responsible and safe attitude within the industry.  Read their advice on cosmetic treatments and details of the campaign here.

To your better skin

Peter Beard

Managing Director, SkinGenesis Ltd.

P.S. Don't forget to click for a FREE Information Pack, or request a FREE Consultation, for any of our treatments by using the navigation links on the left.

There are SkinGenesis Clinics at Chester CH2 4JT, Leeds LS1 6DL, Manchester M3 1FB UNITED KINGDOM.  You can call to speak to one of our therapists during clinic opening hours on Chester 01244 303464, Leeds 0113 244 8999, Manchester 0161 831 7007.

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