New Year New You: Cosmetic Treatment Options

There’s lots of talk about “new year, new you”, so it has me thinking about what my options are for looking good, but I have no idea where to start.  Any suggestions?

Anon, Whenuapai

Ask Dr. Heather Blog as featured in the Kumeu Courier

 Welcoming the new year can feel intimidating as it sets expectations for what we should achieve.  Looking good helps us feel good and thankfully there are multiple options down the cosmetic track if you feel you need a bit of a tweak.

The cosmetic treatment options range from dermal filler (injected hyaluronic acid gel that replaces volume and structure) to botulinum toxin (colloquially known as Botox®, a neurotoxin that relaxes muscles to stop skin creasing).  Skin treatments and skincare are also important, as one can never truly glow if their skin is dull. 

Skin treatments include microneedling (tiny needles penetrate the skin to stimulate collagen), chemical peels (controlled peeling of skin cells generating radiant, less pigmented new skin) and injectable skin treatments (injectable hyaluronic acid such as Profhilo® or mineral cocktail such as NCTF® with or without Art Filler®). 

Navigating what’s on offer can feel just as overwhelming as entering the new year.  Its best to consult an injector to discuss what will work best for you, as many treatments target multiple areas and provide bang for your buck.  A thorough, initial consultation is a great time to chat whilst also ensuring you feel comfortable.  Our faces and bodies are precious, so only put them in the hands of someone you can trust.  And remember, if your injector looks weird, you probably will too!

Quick Answers:

Where should I start with cosmetic treatments if I’m new to them?

Start with a consultation. A good injector can assess your face and skin and help prioritise treatments that suit your goals and budget.

What are the main cosmetic treatment options available?

Options include botulinum toxin (Botox®) to relax muscles and soften lines, dermal filler to restore volume and structure, and skin treatments to improve texture and glow.

What skin treatments can help improve overall skin quality?

Common options include microneedling, chemical peels, and injectable skin treatments such as hyaluronic acid or mineral-based skin boosters.

Do cosmetic treatments work better when combined?

Yes. Many treatments complement each other and can target multiple concerns at once, often giving better overall results than a single treatment alone.

Why is a consultation important before cosmetic treatments?

A consultation ensures treatments are tailored to you, helps avoid unnecessary procedures, and allows you to feel confident and comfortable with your injector.

How do I choose the right cosmetic injector?Choose someone you trust, who explains your options clearly, prioritises natural results, and makes you feel heard and supported.

If you have a question for Dr. Heather you would like answered anonymously, please email askdrheather@allor.co.nz.

Botox®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes.  Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 50, 100, 200 Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Allergan, Auckland.

Dermal Filler, Medical Device Class III to smooth facial wrinkles and folds, correct facial atrophic scars, restore or enhance the lips or restore facial volume. Dermal filler has risk and benefits. Ask your doctor if dermal filler is right for you.  For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier.

PROFHILO® containing low & high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, is a Class III medical device for the treatment of the face and body for contours redefinition and laxity remodelling where skin laxity is a problem. Profhilo® has risks and benefits. Do not use with treatments such a laser resurfacing or medium deep skin-peeling. Caution in people on blood thinning medicines. Do not inject into inflamed areas or intravenously or intramuscularly. Possible side effects: pain and swelling at injection site. Accelagen Pty.  Ltd. Whanganui. 

ART FILLER® containing low & high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, is a Class III medical device for the treatment of facial contours for redefinition, laxity and remodelling where skin laxity is a problem. ART FILLER® has risks and benefits. Do not use with treatments such a laser resurfacing or medium deep skin-peeling. Caution in people on blood thinning medicines. Do not inject into inflamed areas or intravenously or intramuscularly. Possible side effects: pain and swelling at injection site. Distributed by Cryomed Aesthetics Ltd. Auckland.