I have been asked and sometimes even told that my treatments are driven by vanity. I'm afraid I have to disagree with this.
On the face of it (excuse the pun!), while people seek aesthetic treatments to improve their appearance, the impact on their self-confidence and overall well-being is not visible but very real.
I have always said medical aesthetics should be about how it makes us feel.
Don't just take my word and experience for it; published evidence suggests that aesthetic treatments positively affect well-being, confidence, and overall feelings, beyond improving physical appearance. For example, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology published data to support the impact of treating acne on self-esteem. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reported that patients who had treatments benefited from increased self-esteem, psychological well-being, and social functioning. Supporting these treatments improves different aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional success.
The desire to improve our appearance is seen as a feminist question too.
'It is not the desire to be beautiful that is wrong, but the obligation to be'
- Susan Sontag, philosopher, political activist and feminist.
Feminism is about giving women the power to make choices about their bodies and appearance without being judged or shamed for it. Self-care is also an essential part of feminism, prioritising their own need to boost confidence.
Furthermore, this brings in the question of motivation for treatment. During the consultation, I start with the open question, 'What brings you here?' Hearing in your own words what your motivation is, tells me a lot.
The most common reasons I get are: "I've lost my mojo", "I want to feel fresher", or "I have lost my confidence".
Once I know your 'why'. I know how to progress with the consultation and present the best options to address concerns.
We are trained to recognise those with dysmorphic views of themselves if treatment is being done to make someone else happy and when treatments are not the answer.
In conclusion, what I would like you to take from this is that if you feel you would like to have an aesthetic treatment, don't be put off finding out if it is suitable for you by thinking it is vanity or at odds with feminism, it could have a positive impact on how you feel. Instead, find an experienced aesthetic practitioner to discuss and have an assessment.
X Kelly
Click here to view all of my treatments and to book.
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