SKIN BOOSTER TREATMENT

Skin boosters are injections of hyaluronic acid placed into the skin to improve hydration, smoothness and skin quality. They are not designed to add volume or change the shape of your face, and they will not lift sagging skin or fill deep folds. If that is what you are hoping for, tell your practitioner before treatment begins.

Treatment is usually given as a short course rather than a single session. The effect is temporary and repeat treatment is needed to maintain it.

What to expect straight after treatment. Small raised bumps at each injection point are normal and expected with many skin booster products. These usually settle within 24 to 48 hours. You may also have redness, mild swelling and tenderness.

Common effects. Bruising, swelling, redness, tenderness and small firm areas at the injection points. Bruising can take up to two weeks to fade. Some people feel faint during injections. Tell your practitioner straight away if you feel unwell at any point.

Less common effects. Lumps or unevenness that persist beyond the expected settling period, prolonged swelling, infection at an injection site, reactivation of cold sores if you are prone to them, and a result that is less noticeable than you hoped for.

Rare but serious. Because this is an injected hyaluronic acid product, the rare risks that apply to dermal filler also apply here, including allergic reaction and blockage of a blood vessel by product entering it. A blocked vessel can interrupt the blood supply to the skin and needs urgent assessment.

Call 999 immediately if after treatment you develop sudden changes to your vision, facial drooping, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, difficulty speaking, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the mouth, tongue or throat.

Contact the clinic urgently on 07912 600127 if you develop severe or increasing pain, skin that turns white, grey, blue or blotchy, skin that feels unusually cold, or an area that becomes hot, red, shiny and spreading.

PDO THREAD TREATMENT

PDO threads are absorbable surgical threads inserted under the skin using a needle or a fine cannula. Depending on the thread type they are used to support and reposition tissue, or to stimulate the skin. The threads dissolve over several months. The effect is temporary and repeat treatment is needed to maintain it.

Thread treatment is not a surgical facelift and does not produce a surgical result. Where there is significant skin laxity the improvement may be modest. Your practitioner will tell you honestly before treatment whether threads are likely to achieve what you are asking for.

What to expect. Tightness, pulling sensations and tenderness for the first one to two weeks are normal, particularly when you move your face or lie down. Swelling and bruising are common and can be significant in the first few days.

Common effects. Pain and tenderness at the entry points, swelling, bruising, temporary puckering or dimpling of the skin, and a sensation of the threads when you move. Puckering usually settles as the tissue relaxes.

Less common effects. Threads that can be felt or seen under the skin, asymmetry between the two sides, an unsatisfactory or short lived cosmetic result, prolonged tenderness, infection at an entry point, and small firm nodules along the thread line.

Rare but serious. A thread working its way to the surface and needing to be removed, persistent pain, infection requiring antibiotics or surgical drainage, injury to a nerve causing altered sensation or weakness, salivary gland injury, and scarring. Some of these problems may require the thread to be removed, which is not always straightforward and may not be possible in every case.

Call 999 immediately if you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the mouth, tongue or throat, or you feel seriously unwell.

Contact the clinic urgently on 07912 600127 if you develop severe or worsening pain, a thread becoming visible or coming through the skin, or an area that is hot, red, shiny, spreading or discharging.

DISSOLVING DERMAL FILLER

Dissolving hyaluronic acid dermal filler is done using an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which breaks the filler down.

Hyaluronidase is a prescription only medicine. Using it to dissolve cosmetic dermal filler is outside the uses listed in the UK product information, which means it is an off label use. It cannot be given to you on the basis of this form alone. A prescriber must assess you and authorise the medicine for you personally before it is administered.

What it can and cannot do. Hyaluronidase only works on hyaluronic acid filler. It will not dissolve permanent filler, silicone, biopolymer, fat transfer, or products of unknown type. If you do not know what was injected into you previously, or who injected it, tell your practitioner, because this materially changes what can safely be attempted.

Hyaluronidase does not distinguish between the filler and your own natural hyaluronic acid in the treated area. Some loss of your own tissue volume in that area is expected, and the area may temporarily look flatter, more hollow or older than it did before. This usually recovers over several weeks.

The result is not fully predictable. More than one session is often needed. It is not always possible to remove every trace of filler, and it is not possible to control precisely how much dissolves.

Common effects. Swelling, which is often marked and can be more pronounced than after the original filler treatment, redness, bruising, tenderness and itching. Swelling is usually worst in the first 24 to 48 hours.

Less common effects. Infection, prolonged swelling, an uneven or hollow appearance, and disappointment with the cosmetic outcome.

Rare but serious. Allergic reaction to hyaluronidase, including very rarely anaphylaxis, which is a severe whole body allergic reaction requiring emergency treatment. Tell your practitioner if you have ever had a reaction to hyaluronidase, or a known allergy to bee or wasp stings.

Call 999 immediately if after treatment you develop difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the tongue, throat or lips, a widespread rash, faintness or collapse. Do not wait for the clinic to call you back and do not drive yourself to hospital.

Use in an emergency after filler. Where hyaluronidase is used to treat a suspected blocked blood vessel rather than for cosmetic reasons, the decision to use it is made according to the circumstances of the complication and the clinic approved prescribing and emergency protocol. Emergency treatment here does not remove the need for hospital assessment, and you may be treated here and then sent on to hospital, or sent to hospital first.

POLYNUCLEOTIDE TREATMENT

Polynucleotide injections use purified DNA fragments to improve skin quality, hydration and elasticity. They are a skin conditioning treatment. They do not add volume, do not lift sagging skin, and are not a substitute for dermal filler.

Important, please read. Fish allergy. Polynucleotide products are commonly derived from fish, usually salmon or trout. If you have any allergy to fish or seafood you must tell your practitioner before treatment. Do not assume it has already been recorded.

Treatment is normally given as a course of sessions spaced a few weeks apart, with results building gradually. The effect is temporary and maintenance treatment is required. You are unlikely to see a difference on the day of treatment.

Common effects. Redness, swelling, bruising and tenderness at the injection sites. Small raised bumps at each injection point are common and usually settle within 24 to 48 hours.

Less common effects. Lumps or firmness that persist, prolonged swelling, infection at an injection site, reactivation of cold sores if you are prone to them, and a result that is less noticeable than you hoped for.

Rare but serious. Allergic reaction to the product. As with any injectable, blockage of a blood vessel is a rare but recognised risk.

Call 999 immediately if you develop difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue, throat or lips, a widespread rash, faintness or collapse, or any sudden change to your vision.

Contact the clinic urgently on 07912 600127 if you develop severe or increasing pain, skin that turns white, grey, blue or blotchy, or an area that becomes hot, red, shiny and spreading.

DERMAL FILLER TO THE UNDER EYE AREA

Please read this section particularly carefully. The under eye area, sometimes called the tear trough, is one of the highest risk areas of the face to treat with dermal filler, and the recovery is less predictable than for other areas.

Most hyaluronic acid fillers are not specifically licensed for use in the tear trough. Where the product being used for you falls outside its stated indication that is off label use, and your practitioner will explain this and record it before treatment.

This area is close to the blood supply to the eye. The rare complication of filler entering a blood vessel and affecting the circulation to the eye is the reason this area demands particular caution.

What to expect. Swelling in this area is common, can be lumpy or uneven in the early weeks, and takes longer to settle than elsewhere on the face. Allow at least two to four weeks before judging your result. Bruising here is common and can be noticeable.

Common effects. Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and temporary unevenness or lumpiness.

Less common effects. Persistent puffiness under the eye, where fluid collects and the puffiness can last for months. In some cases it does not settle on its own and the filler has to be dissolved. A bluish or greyish tinge to the skin where filler sits too close to the surface, which may also require dissolving to correct. Visible or palpable lumps, asymmetry between the two sides, an unsatisfactory result, and infection. Filler in this area can last considerably longer than expected, sometimes years, and may need to be dissolved rather than simply left to disappear.

Rare but serious. Blockage of a blood vessel, which can damage the skin, and very rarely blockage of the circulation to the eye causing partial or complete loss of vision. Loss of vision from filler is in most cases permanent. There have been a small number of such cases reported worldwide, but you must be aware of this risk before agreeing to treatment in this area.

Call 999 immediately if during or after treatment you develop sudden blurred, reduced or lost vision, a new blind spot, double vision, severe or unusual eye pain, facial drooping, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, difficulty speaking, confusion or collapse.

Tell the ambulance service or the Emergency Department that you have recently had facial dermal filler, and where it was injected. Do not drive yourself. Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 as well, but do not delay calling 999 in order to contact us first.

FAT DISSOLVING INJECTIONS

Fat dissolving injections are used to reduce small, localised pockets of fat. They are not a weight loss treatment, they will not treat obesity, and they will not tighten loose skin. Reducing fat in an area can make loose skin more noticeable.

Regulatory status of the product used. Products marketed for fat dissolving in the UK do not all have the same legal status. Some are prescription only medicines licensed only for a specific area of the body, so use anywhere else is off label. Others hold no UK marketing authorisation at all and are classed as unlicensed. Products of unknown origin bought online have been linked to serious harm.

Before treatment your practitioner will tell you the name of the exact product proposed for you, its regulatory status, and whether the proposed use is licensed or off label, and will record this. Where a prescription only medicine is involved it cannot be given on the basis of this form alone, and a prescriber must assess you and authorise it for you personally first.

What to expect. More than one session is almost always required, spaced several weeks apart. Results are gradual and vary considerably between individuals. No particular amount of fat reduction can be guaranteed.

Swelling after this treatment is usually significant and can last one to two weeks or longer. The treated area is commonly firm, lumpy, tender and bruised during this period. This is expected, but it does mean you should not book treatment shortly before an event.

Common effects. Pain and burning during and after injection, marked swelling, bruising, redness, firmness, lumpiness, tenderness and numbness in the treated area.

Less common effects. Prolonged swelling or firmness, persistent nodules, uneven or asymmetrical results, an unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome, infection, and hard scar tissue under the skin.

Rare but serious. Injury to a nerve causing weakness or altered sensation, which in the neck and jaw area can affect your smile and may take months to recover, damage to the skin including ulceration, tissue death and permanent scarring, deep infection or abscess requiring hospital treatment, and allergic reaction.

Call 999 immediately if you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the tongue, throat or lips, a widespread rash, faintness or collapse.

Contact the clinic urgently on 07912 600127 if you develop severe or worsening pain, skin that is breaking down, blistering or turning dark, an area that is hot, red, shiny and spreading, or you feel generally unwell with a temperature.

SCULPTRA (POLY-L-LACTIC ACID) TREATMENT

Sculptra is an injectable collagen stimulator. It is made of poly-L-lactic acid, a material that is gradually absorbed by the body. It does not work like a hyaluronic acid filler: it gives little immediate change, and instead stimulates your skin to make new collagen over the following weeks and months.

What to expect. Any fullness straight after treatment is mostly water and swelling and goes down within a few days. The real result builds gradually over 2 to 3 months. A course of 2 to 3 sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart, is usually needed. Results can last up to 2 years but are not permanent, and no specific result can be guaranteed.

Sculptra cannot be dissolved. Unlike hyaluronic acid filler, there is no enzyme that removes it. If a lump or unwanted result develops, it usually has to settle over time or be managed with other treatments.

Massage is essential. You will need to massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days after each session. Not doing this increases the risk of lumps.

Common effects. Swelling, tenderness, redness, bruising and bleeding at the injection points. These usually settle within a few days to two weeks.

Less common effects. Small lumps under the skin (papules or nodules) that can be felt but not seen, which may appear weeks or months later. Visible lumps, uneven results, infection, and a result that is less than you hoped for. Lumps can be long-lasting.

Rare but serious. Inflammatory nodules (granulomas) appearing months or even years later, allergic reaction, and blockage of a blood vessel by product, which can damage the skin and, very rarely, affect vision.

Call 999 immediately if during or after treatment you develop sudden blurred, reduced or lost vision, facial drooping, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, difficulty speaking, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the mouth, tongue or throat.

Contact the clinic urgently on 07912 600127 if you develop severe or increasing pain, skin that turns white, grey, blue or blotchy, or an area that becomes hot, red, shiny and spreading.

TCA PEEL

A TCA peel uses trichloroacetic acid to remove damaged outer layers of skin. As the skin heals, it is replaced by smoother, more even skin. TCA peels can improve fine lines, uneven texture, sun damage, pigmentation and some acne scarring. The strength used, and so the depth of the peel and the recovery time, will be chosen for you after your practitioner has assessed your skin.

During treatment. The acid is applied in layers. It usually stings or burns for a few minutes. The skin may turn white or frosted in places, which shows the peel is working.

What to expect afterwards. Redness, tightness and swelling for the first few days. The skin then darkens, dries and peels, usually from day 3 to day 7 and for longer after a stronger peel. The new skin is pink and sensitive for some weeks. More than one peel is often needed, and results vary.

Common effects. Stinging, redness, swelling, tightness, dryness, peeling, itching and temporary darkening of the skin before it peels.

Less common effects. Redness that lasts for several weeks, dark patches (more likely in darker skin types and with sun exposure), light patches, a cold sore flare, infection, acne breakouts, and an uneven or disappointing result.

Rare but serious. Burns, blistering, lasting changes in skin colour, and scarring. The risk is higher if the skin is picked, exposed to sun while healing, or if isotretinoin has been taken recently.

Call 999 if you develop swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 if you develop blisters, yellow crusting or weeping skin, increasing pain, spreading redness, a temperature, or a cold sore.

AlumierMD skin peel
A professional AlumierMD chemical peel with Cinzia. She will look at your skin first and choose the peel and strength that suit it. The questions below help her choose safely.

Thank you for letting us know. With the equipment we currently use (a 755nm wavelength laser), we're not able to safely offer laser hair removal for this skin type.

This is a limit of this particular machine, not a judgement about your skin: at this wavelength the laser cannot reliably tell the difference between pigment in the hair and pigment in the skin, which raises the risk of burns and skin colour change on darker skin tones.

If we add a different wavelength suitable for a wider range of skin tones in future, we would be glad to let you know. In the meantime, please speak to us about the other treatments we offer.

We may need clearance from your GP before this treatment. A history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder does not necessarily prevent massage, but we need to check first. Please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment.

We will need to check this before your treatment. If you are not sure whether you have a history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder, please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment. It does not necessarily prevent massage, but we may ask you to check with your GP first.

Please book our pregnancy massage instead. Relaxation massage is not suitable during pregnancy. Please finish the form and contact us, and we will move your appointment across.

Please contact us before your appointment. If there is any chance you are pregnant, relaxation massage is not suitable, and we would move you to our pregnancy massage instead. Please finish the form and contact us so we can check this with you.

We may need clearance from your care team before this treatment. Current or recent cancer treatment does not rule out massage, but we need to check what is appropriate for you. Please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment.

RELAXATION MASSAGE

Relaxation massage uses light to medium pressure to ease muscular tension and promote relaxation. It is a wellbeing treatment. It is not medical treatment, it is not physiotherapy, and it is not a diagnosis of any condition you may have.

What to expect. You will be asked to undress only as far as you are comfortable, and you will be covered with towels throughout, with only the area being worked on uncovered. Oil or lotion is normally used.

Please tell your therapist if the pressure is too firm or too light at any point, if there is any area you would prefer not to be worked on, if you feel unwell, dizzy or uncomfortable during the treatment, and about any allergy or sensitivity to oils, lotions or nut products.

Common effects. Temporary muscle soreness or tenderness for a day or two afterwards, similar to after exercise, is normal. You may also feel tired, thirsty or lightheaded immediately afterwards. Some people notice mild bruising, particularly if they bruise easily.

Less common effects. Skin irritation or a reaction to the oils or lotions used, and a temporary flare up of an existing muscular problem.

Your right to stop. You may ask the therapist to stop, change what they are doing, or leave the room at any point, for any reason, without needing to explain. Treatment will stop immediately.

We will need to check this before your treatment. If you are not sure whether you have a history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder, please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment. It does not necessarily prevent massage, but we may ask you to check with your GP first.

Please book our pregnancy massage instead. Therapeutic massage is not suitable during pregnancy. Please finish the form and contact us, and we will move your appointment across.

Please contact us before your appointment. If there is any chance you are pregnant, therapeutic massage is not suitable, and we would move you to our pregnancy massage instead. Please finish the form and contact us so we can check this with you.

We may need clearance from your care team before this treatment. Current or recent cancer treatment does not rule out massage, but we need to check what is appropriate for you. Please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Therapeutic massage uses firmer and more targeted pressure than relaxation massage to work on areas of muscular tension, tightness and restriction. It can include deep tissue work, trigger point work and myofascial techniques.

This is a soft tissue treatment for comfort and mobility. It is not medical treatment, it is not physiotherapy, and your therapist cannot diagnose the cause of any pain you have. If you have pain that is new, severe, unexplained, or getting worse, please see your GP rather than relying on massage.

What to expect. Firm work can be uncomfortable at times. Discomfort should always stay within what you find tolerable. Tell your therapist immediately if anything hurts sharply, or causes pins and needles, numbness or shooting pain. These are not normal responses to massage and the therapist will stop or change technique.

Common effects. Muscle soreness and tenderness for one to three days afterwards is common after deeper work, and can be more noticeable than you expect. You may also feel tired or lightheaded, and bruising can occur, particularly over bony areas or if you bruise easily.

Less common effects. More prolonged soreness, temporary aggravation of an existing problem, skin irritation from oils or lotions, and bruising that takes up to two weeks to clear.

Please tell your therapist before treatment if you take any medicine that thins your blood or makes you bruise more easily, if you have osteoporosis or fragile bones, if you have had recent surgery or injury, or if you have any area of new unexplained swelling.

Your right to stop. You may ask the therapist to reduce pressure, change area, or stop entirely at any point, without explanation.

We may need clearance from your GP before this treatment. A history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder does not necessarily prevent massage, but we need to check first. Please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment.

We will need to check this before your treatment. If you are not sure whether you have a history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder, please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment. It does not necessarily prevent massage, but we may ask you to check with your GP first.

We will confirm whether hot stone massage is suitable for you. Diabetes can reduce how well you feel heat, which increases the risk of a burn. Please finish the form and we will discuss this with you before your appointment.

Please book our pregnancy massage instead. Hot stone massage is not suitable during pregnancy. Please finish the form and contact us, and we will move your appointment across.

Please contact us before your appointment. If there is any chance you are pregnant, hot stone massage is not suitable, and we would move you to our pregnancy massage instead. Please finish the form and contact us so we can check this with you.

HOT STONE MASSAGE

Hot stone massage uses smooth stones warmed in water, placed on the body and used by the therapist to work the muscles. The warmth helps muscles relax and allows the therapist to work more deeply with less pressure.

Heat and your skin, please read. The stones are heated and checked before use, and the therapist will test the temperature against your skin before working with them. You must tell the therapist immediately if a stone feels too hot at any point. Do not wait to see whether it settles, and do not tolerate it out of politeness. Burns are preventable and the single most important thing you can do is speak up straight away.

This treatment may not be suitable for you if you have reduced sensation or numbness anywhere, including from diabetes or a neurological condition, because you may not feel that a stone is too hot; diabetes, circulatory problems or neuropathy; very sensitive skin, a skin condition affecting the treatment area, broken skin, sunburn or a recent burn; a heart condition, high or low blood pressure that is not well controlled, or a tendency to faint; varicose veins in the area or a history of blood clots; or if you are pregnant.

Tell your therapist about any of these before treatment begins. Some mean this treatment is not appropriate. Others simply mean it is adapted.

Common effects. Skin redness in the treated areas, which settles within a few hours. Muscle soreness for a day or two. Feeling warm, tired or lightheaded afterwards.

Less common effects. Skin irritation or a heat rash, temporary increase in existing muscular discomfort, and dizziness on standing up.

Rare. Burns or blistering of the skin.

Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 if you develop blistering, broken skin, or a burn that does not settle within a few hours.

We may need clearance from your GP before this treatment. A history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder does not necessarily prevent massage, but we need to check first. Please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment.

We will need to check this before your treatment. If you are not sure whether you have a history of DVT, blood clots or a clotting disorder, please finish the form and we will contact you before your appointment. It does not necessarily prevent massage, but we may ask you to check with your GP first.

Please book our pregnancy massage instead. Sports massage is not suitable during pregnancy. Please finish the form and contact us, and we will move your appointment across.

Please contact us before your appointment. If there is any chance you are pregnant, sports massage is not suitable, and we would move you to our pregnancy massage instead. Please finish the form and contact us so we can check this with you.

SPORTS MASSAGE

Sports massage is firm, targeted soft tissue work aimed at muscles used in training, exercise and repetitive activity. It may include deep tissue work, trigger point work, stretching and mobilisation.

It is not physiotherapy and it is not a medical assessment. Your therapist cannot diagnose an injury. If you have a new injury, a joint that has given way, pain that is severe or getting worse, or any loss of function, see a doctor or physiotherapist rather than booking massage.

What to expect. This treatment is often uncomfortable during the session, particularly over tight or overworked areas. Discomfort should remain tolerable and you should never be asked to endure severe pain. Tell your therapist immediately if you feel sharp pain, shooting pain, pins and needles or numbness.

Timing around competition and training. Deep work can leave you sore and temporarily below your best for one to three days. Do not book firm sports massage in the two or three days before a race, match or event unless you have discussed the timing with your therapist and know how your body responds.

Common effects. Soreness and stiffness for one to three days, tiredness, bruising particularly over bony areas, and a temporary reduction in power or flexibility.

Less common effects. More prolonged soreness, temporary aggravation of an existing injury, and skin irritation from oils or lotions.

Please tell your therapist about any current or recent injury, any medicine that thins your blood, any joint instability or previous dislocation, and any area of new unexplained swelling.

PREGNANCY MASSAGE

Pregnancy massage is adapted massage for people who are pregnant, using supported side lying or cushioned positioning, modified pressure, and avoidance of certain areas and techniques.

Before booking, please note. Treatment is not normally carried out during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy, and your practitioner will confirm the clinic position on this at the time of booking. If your pregnancy has been described to you as high risk, or if a doctor or midwife has advised you to avoid massage, we need to know before treatment. If you are unsure whether massage is appropriate for you, ask your midwife or doctor first. We would rather you checked than guessed.

You must tell us before treatment if you have raised blood pressure or a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia, diabetes in pregnancy, a history of miscarriage or preterm labour, a multiple pregnancy, any bleeding or fluid loss, reduced movements of the baby, or any swelling in one leg particularly with pain, warmth or redness.

Do not attend for massage and seek medical advice instead if, on the day, you have vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, severe or persistent headache, visual disturbance, severe swelling that has come on suddenly, abdominal pain, regular tightenings, reduced movements of the baby, or you simply feel unwell.

What to expect. You will be positioned on your side with cushions and supports, or otherwise as is comfortable for you. Pressure is lighter than in general massage, particularly around the abdomen, lower back and legs. Tell your therapist at any point if a position becomes uncomfortable, if you feel breathless, dizzy or nauseated, or if you need to change position or stop.

Common effects. Mild soreness, tiredness, and needing the toilet more often afterwards.

Less common effects. Dizziness or lightheadedness on changing position, skin irritation from oils or lotions, and temporary aggravation of back or pelvic discomfort.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

Manual lymphatic drainage is a very light, rhythmic technique intended to encourage the movement of lymph fluid. The pressure used is much lighter than in other forms of massage. If you are expecting a firm massage, this is not that treatment.

You have already been asked a set of detailed health questions about lymphatic drainage in this form. Please make sure those answers describe your situation today, not at a previous appointment.

What this treatment is not. It is not a treatment for undiagnosed swelling. If you have new or unexplained swelling that has not been medically assessed, it needs to be looked at by a doctor first, because swelling can have causes that require medical treatment and that massage could delay or worsen. It is not a weight loss treatment and it does not remove fat.

After surgery. If you are having this treatment as part of recovery from surgery, we need to know the date and type of surgery, whether you still have wounds, stitches or drains, whether you have had any infection or complication, and any instructions your surgeon has given you about massage. Treatment does not automatically go ahead simply because you have had surgery. Your practitioner needs enough information to be satisfied it is appropriate.

Common effects. Needing to pass urine more often afterwards, tiredness, and feeling lightheaded. Increase your fluid intake afterwards unless you have been advised to restrict fluids.

Less common effects. Temporary increase in swelling, skin irritation from products used, and tenderness in the treated area.

Do not proceed and seek medical advice if you develop a fever, an area of skin that is newly red, hot, swollen or painful, new swelling in one limb particularly with pain or warmth, or breathlessness or chest pain. These need medical assessment before any lymphatic treatment.

GUINOT FACIAL

A Guinot facial is a professional facial treatment using the Guinot product range, including cleansing, exfoliation, massage, mask and finishing products. Some treatments in the range also use a machine that passes a very low electrical current across the skin to help product absorption.

Please tell your therapist before treatment about any allergy or sensitivity to skincare products, fragrance, preservatives or plant extracts; any prescription or strong active skincare you use, including retinoids, tretinoin, adapalene, exfoliating acids or acne treatments, and when you last used it; any recent facial treatment, including peel, laser, microneedling, waxing or injectable treatment, and when; any skin condition, active cold sore, broken skin, sunburn or rash; and if you are pregnant, if you have epilepsy, a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device, or any metal implants in the face, as these affect whether the electrical element of the treatment can be used.

What to expect. Mild redness and a warm or tingling sensation during and after treatment are normal and usually settle within a few hours.

Common effects. Temporary redness, warmth, tingling, and skin that feels more sensitive for a day or so.

Less common effects. An allergic or irritant reaction to a product, small spots or breakouts in the days following treatment as the skin adjusts, and a flare up of an existing skin condition.

Rare. A more marked allergic reaction, and reactivation of cold sores.

Aftercare. Avoid strong active skincare, sun exposure without protection, heat treatments and vigorous exercise for the rest of the day. Use sun protection.

CACI MICROCURRENT FACIAL

CACI treatment passes a very low level electrical current through the skin and underlying facial muscles using handheld probes. It is used to tone and lift the appearance of the face. The effect is temporary and a course of treatments followed by maintenance is normally recommended.

This treatment is not suitable if you have a pacemaker, defibrillator or any other implanted electrical device, epilepsy, or a history of thrombosis or embolism.

Tell your practitioner before treatment if you have metal pins, plates or implants in the face or head, dental implants or extensive metal dental work, recent injectable treatment such as botulinum toxin or dermal filler and when it was done, any cancer diagnosis or current treatment, uncontrolled high or low blood pressure, diabetes, a skin condition or broken skin in the treatment area, an active cold sore, or if you are pregnant.

Recent injectable treatment matters because microcurrent may need to be delayed until the injectable result has settled. Your practitioner will advise on timing.

What to expect. You will feel a mild tingling, and you may notice a slight metallic taste in your mouth. Some people see a flickering of light at the edge of vision. These are recognised sensations. Treatment should never be painful. Tell your practitioner immediately if you feel any stinging, burning or discomfort so the intensity can be reduced.

Common effects. Mild redness, tingling during treatment, and a feeling of tightness in the facial muscles afterwards.

Less common effects. Temporary headache, mild muscle fatigue in the face, skin irritation from the conductive gel, and a result that is less noticeable than hoped, particularly after a single session.

ADVANCED FACIAL

An advanced facial is a stronger treatment than a standard facial and may include chemical exfoliation, higher strength active ingredients, extraction, or the use of a device. Your practitioner will tell you before treatment begins which specific elements are being used on you and at what strength.

Please tell your practitioner before treatment about any prescription or strong active skincare, including retinoids, tretinoin, adapalene, exfoliating acids or acne treatment, and when you last used it, as you may be asked to stop for several days beforehand; if you are taking or have recently taken isotretinoin, sometimes known as Roaccutane; any recent peel, laser, microneedling, waxing, threading or injectable treatment, and when; any history of cold sores, keloid or raised scarring, or of pigmentation changes after a skin treatment, burn or injury; recent sun exposure or sunbed use, and any planned holiday or sun exposure; whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding; and any allergy or sensitivity to skincare products.

What to expect. Redness, warmth, tightness and mild stinging during and after treatment are expected. Depending on the strength used, the skin may flake or peel over the following days. This is a normal part of the treatment. Do not pick or peel the skin, as this is what causes marking and scarring.

Common effects. Redness lasting several hours to a couple of days, tightness, dryness, flaking or peeling, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Less common effects. Prolonged redness, spots or breakouts in the days after treatment, an irritant or allergic reaction, temporary darkening or lightening of areas of skin, and reactivation of cold sores.

Rare. Blistering, burns, infection, lasting change in skin colour, and scarring. These risks are higher if aftercare is not followed, particularly sun protection and not picking the skin.

Aftercare. Use sun protection daily and avoid direct sun. Avoid active skincare, heat treatments, saunas, swimming and vigorous exercise for the period your practitioner specifies. Do not use exfoliating products until the skin has fully settled.

Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 if you develop blistering, broken skin, increasing pain, or an area that is hot, red, shiny and spreading.

CACI MICROCURRENT FACIAL

CACI uses low-level microcurrent to work the facial muscles, alongside LED light. It is a course-based treatment: a single session gives a temporary lift, and a course is normally needed for a longer-lasting effect.

Please tell your practitioner before treatment if you have epilepsy or a history of seizures; a pacemaker or any implanted electrical or metal device; are pregnant or breastfeeding; have any active skin infection, cold sore, or broken skin on the face; or have a history of cancer, particularly of the skin or face.

What to expect. A mild tingling or tapping sensation from the microcurrent, which most people find relaxing. Skin often looks temporarily brighter and slightly lifted straight after treatment.

Common effects. Mild redness, and occasional slight muscle twitching or tiredness in the treated muscles for a short time afterwards.

Less common effects. Headache, or a metallic taste during treatment. Tell your practitioner if either occurs.

Aftercare. Drink water after treatment. Avoid strong active skincare for 24 hours. Results build over a course, so keep to the session spacing your practitioner recommends.

Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 if you develop persistent muscle weakness, an unexpected skin reaction, or anything that does not settle within a day or two.

ONCOLOGY FACIAL

An oncology facial is a gentle, adapted facial designed for people who are living with cancer, having cancer treatment, or recovering from it. It uses mild products, light pressure, and avoids actives, strong exfoliation, extraction, heat and electrical treatments.

This is a comfort and wellbeing treatment. It does not treat cancer, does not interact with your cancer treatment, and makes no claim to affect your condition or recovery in any way.

Before treatment we need to know where you are in your treatment, including whether you are currently having chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted treatment, and the date of your most recent session; whether you have a PICC line, port, central line or stoma; whether you have had lymph nodes removed or radiotherapy to any area, and where; whether you have any skin reaction, soreness, broken skin or radiotherapy skin changes, and where; whether your medical team has given you any advice about facials, massage or skincare; and any current infection, or whether you have been told your immunity or platelet count is low.

If you are unsure whether this treatment is appropriate at this point in your care, please ask your medical team first. We would always rather you checked. Treatment may be postponed if your practitioner is not satisfied it is appropriate today, and that is a clinical judgement, not a refusal of care.

What to expect. Very gentle cleansing, light massage where appropriate and comfortable, and a soothing mask. Areas that are sore, broken or recently treated with radiotherapy will be avoided. Tell your practitioner at any point if anything is uncomfortable or if you need to stop or rest.

Common effects. Mild redness, and tiredness afterwards.

Less common effects. Skin sensitivity or a reaction to a product, since skin can be considerably more reactive during and after cancer treatment.

OXYGENEO FACIAL

The OxyGeneo treatment exfoliates the skin and uses a capsule and gel that react on the skin surface to produce carbon dioxide bubbles, which is intended to increase oxygen delivery to the skin, while active ingredients are worked in. It is a resurfacing and infusion treatment.

Please tell your practitioner before treatment about any allergy or sensitivity to skincare products, and any known allergy to the active ingredients used; any prescription or strong active skincare, including retinoids and exfoliating acids, and when you last used it; any recent facial treatment, peel, laser, microneedling, waxing or injectable treatment, and when; any skin condition, active cold sore, broken skin, sunburn, rash, or active inflamed acne in the treatment area; if you are taking or have recently taken isotretinoin, sometimes known as Roaccutane; if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; and any history of pigmentation changes after a skin treatment or injury.

What to expect. A bubbling or fizzing sensation on the skin during treatment is expected and is the treatment working as intended. Mild warmth, tingling and redness are normal.

Common effects. Temporary redness lasting a few hours, tingling, warmth, and skin that feels smoother but more sensitive for a day or so.

Less common effects. Dryness or light flaking over the following days, small spots or breakouts, an irritant or allergic reaction to the products used, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Rare. A more marked allergic reaction, reactivation of cold sores, and temporary darkening or lightening of areas of skin.

Aftercare. Use sun protection and avoid direct sun. Avoid active skincare, exfoliation, heat treatments and vigorous exercise for the rest of the day, or longer if your practitioner advises.

ONCOLOGY FACIAL

An oncology facial is a gentle facial adapted for people who have, or have had, cancer. Your practitioner will use lighter pressure, avoid certain products and techniques, and adjust the treatment around any current or previous cancer treatment.

Please tell your practitioner before treatment about your diagnosis and where in your body it affects or affected; whether you are currently having chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy or another cancer treatment, and roughly when your last session was; any surgery, including lymph node removal, and which side of your body it affects; any changes to your skin, including dryness, sensitivity, thinning or scarring, since treatment began; any medication that affects your immune system or blood clotting; and any port, PICC line, stoma or other medical device.

This information helps your practitioner avoid areas that need to be avoided, such as a limb affected by lymph node removal, and choose products and pressure that are safe for you.

What to expect. A gentler treatment than a standard facial, using lighter pressure and, where needed, products chosen to suit sensitive or compromised skin.

Aftercare. Your skin may be more sensitive than usual, including to sun and to new products. Introduce anything new gradually and patch test where possible. Keep skincare simple and avoid strong actives unless your practitioner has specifically discussed them with you.

Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 if you notice any unusual skin change, a reaction that does not settle, or anything that concerns you, and mention this to your oncology team if it persists.

EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Eyelash extensions are individual synthetic lashes attached to your own natural lashes with an adhesive. They are not permanent. They shed as your own lashes shed, and infills are needed to maintain the look.

Adhesive and allergy, please read. Lash adhesives contain cyanoacrylate. An allergy to lash adhesive can develop at any time, including after you have had extensions before without any problem. A previous trouble free appointment does not guarantee the next one.

Tell your practitioner before treatment if you have ever had any reaction to lash extensions, lash or brow tint, hair dye, black henna, adhesives, plasters or acrylic nails, or if you have had swollen, itchy or streaming eyes after a beauty treatment.

This treatment is not suitable, or must be postponed, if you have an eye infection, conjunctivitis, a stye, blepharitis, dry or irritated eyes, broken or inflamed skin on the eyelids, or recent eye surgery or injury.

What to expect. You will lie with your eyes closed for the whole appointment, which can take one to two hours or longer. Adhesive fumes can cause a brief stinging or watering sensation. Tell your practitioner immediately if your eyes sting, burn or water during treatment, and if at any point you need a break.

Common effects. Mild redness of the eyelid margin, a slight heavy or unfamiliar feeling for the first day, and occasional watering.

Less common effects. Irritation or dryness of the eyes, an allergic reaction to the adhesive causing itching, redness and swelling of the eyelids that may begin hours or up to a couple of days after treatment, and damage or thinning of your own lashes, particularly with heavy extensions, poor application, or if you pick at or pull them.

Rare. A significant allergic reaction requiring medical treatment, and eye infection or corneal injury.

Call 999 or go to A and E if you develop difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, tongue or throat, or a widespread rash.

Seek same day medical attention if you have eye pain, changes to your vision, or discharge from the eye.

Contact the clinic on 07912 600127 if your eyelids become swollen, itchy or red after treatment, so removal can be arranged.

Aftercare. Keep them dry for the first 24 hours. Do not use oil based products around the eyes, do not use mechanical lash curlers, and do not pick, pull or attempt to remove the extensions yourself, as this damages your own lashes. Return to the clinic for professional removal.

Please rebook once your eyes are fully settled and clear. We cannot safely carry out a lash treatment while there is any active irritation or infection.

LASH LIFT AND TINT

A lash lift uses a chemical solution to reshape your own lashes into an upward curl. A tint uses a dye to darken them. Both involve chemicals used very close to the eye.

Patch testing. A patch test is required before tinting, and before a lift where the manufacturer of the product being used requires one. It must be done within the timeframe the manufacturer specifies, and a previous patch test does not last indefinitely. Treatment cannot go ahead without a valid patch test where one is required. This is not a formality. Reactions to lash and hair dye chemicals can be severe.

Tell your practitioner before treatment if you have ever had any reaction to lash or brow tint, hair dye, black henna, lash lift solution or lash adhesive, or if you have had swollen, itchy or streaming eyes after a beauty treatment. If any previous reaction involved facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing, collapse or hospital treatment, tell us, as this is important.

This treatment is not suitable, or must be postponed, if you have an eye infection, conjunctivitis, a stye, blepharitis, very dry or irritated eyes, broken or inflamed skin on the eyelids, or recent eye surgery or injury.

What to expect. Your eyes stay closed throughout. You may notice a smell from the solutions and a mild tingling sensation. Tell your practitioner immediately if you feel stinging, burning or significant discomfort at any point. The solutions will be removed straight away.

Common effects. Mild redness of the eyelid margin and slight watering, settling within a few hours.

Less common effects. Skin irritation on the eyelids, dryness or brittleness of the lashes, particularly with repeated lifts done too frequently, an over curled or under curled result, and an uneven result between the two eyes.

Rare. Allergic reaction with itching, swelling and redness of the eyelids, which may begin hours or up to a couple of days after treatment, chemical irritation of the eye surface, and lash damage or loss.

Call 999 or go to A and E if you develop difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, tongue or throat, or a widespread rash.

Seek same day medical attention if you have eye pain, changes to your vision, or discharge from the eye.

Aftercare. Keep the lashes dry and avoid steam, swimming and oil based eye products for 24 hours. Do not use a mechanical lash curler on lifted lashes.