Your First Aesthetics Consultation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Booking your first aesthetics consultation can feel like a big step. Many people tell me they've been thinking about it for months, sometimes years, before getting in touch. It's completely normal to feel a little nervous, or unsure what to ask.

The consultation is the most important part of any treatment. It's where we get to know each other, talk through what you'd like to change, and decide together whether treatment is right for you. Nothing happens until you're ready.

Here's what you can expect when you come to see me at 10 Harley Street.

Before you arrive

A little preparation helps us make the most of our time together:

• Arrive without makeup, if you can, so I can see your skin clearly.
• Bring a list of any medicines and supplements you take, including anything from a pharmacy or health food shop.
• Think about what bothers you, and what you'd like to feel or see differently. You don't need to know which treatment you want; that's what we'll work out together.
• Note any previous treatments, including when you had them and what was used, if you know.
• Allow 30 to 45 minutes, so neither of us feels rushed.

It can also help to bring a photo of yourself from a few years ago, if you'd like to talk about how your face has changed over time.

During your consultation

1. Your medical history We'll start by going through your health, any medicines or supplements you take, allergies, and any previous aesthetic treatments. This isn't a formality: some conditions and medicines affect which treatments are safe for you, or how you might heal.

2. Your goals Next, we'll talk about what you'd like to change, and how you'd like to look and feel. Some people come with something very specific in mind; others just know they look more tired than they feel. Both are absolutely fine.

3. Looking at your skin I'll look closely at your face, your skin quality, and how your features move when you talk and smile. This helps me understand what's causing the changes you've noticed, which isn't always what people expect.

4. Your options I'll explain which treatments might help, what results are realistic, how long they last, and how many sessions you'd need. I'll also go through the possible side effects and risks in plain language, and give you clear costs. If treatment isn't the right choice for you, I'll tell you honestly, and suggest alternatives or refer you on where appropriate.

Please ask as many questions as you like. There's no such thing as a silly question about your own face.

Time to decide

You won't be asked to make a decision on the spot. After your consultation, there's a cooling-off period before any treatment, giving you time to think things over, read any information I've given you, and talk to people you trust.

Some people book treatment soon after; others take weeks or months. Some decide treatment isn't for them, and that's a perfectly good outcome too. A consultation is about making an informed choice, not about committing to anything.

If you decide to go ahead

Before your treatment, I'll give you written information about your chosen treatment, including how to prepare and how to care for your skin afterwards.

On the day, we'll check that nothing has changed since your consultation, and you'll have another chance to ask questions. I'll ask for your written consent and take photographs for your records, so we can compare your results later. Then we'll go ahead with your treatment.

Afterwards, you'll have a follow-up appointment to review your results, which is included in your treatment price. And if you have any questions or concerns in between, you can message me directly on WhatsApp.

From your first consultation through every follow-up, you'll see me personally.

A final word

A good consultation should leave you feeling informed, listened to and under no pressure, whatever you decide. If you'd like to talk through what's on your mind, I'd be very happy to see you.

Consultations take place at my clinic at 10 Harley Street, London, and cost £100. You can book through my website, call 020 7459 4198, or message me on WhatsApp on 07974 345 457.

Libbie Wallace, NMC Registered Nurse and Independent Nurse Prescriber, MSc Aesthetic Medicine