Who shouldn't have injectable treatments

Injectable treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections, dermal filler and skin boosters are safe for most healthy adults when carried out properly. They are not right for everyone though. Part of my job is to spot when a treatment is not suitable and to say so.

This guide covers some of the most common reasons I might advise against treatment or suggest waiting. It is not a complete list. Your medical history will always be checked at a face-to-face consultation.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Injectable aesthetic treatments are not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. There is not enough safety evidence, so the safest choice is to wait. The same applies if you are actively trying for a baby.

Infection or skin problems in the area

If you have an active infection, a cold sore, a flare of acne or broken skin where we would be treating, we will need to wait until it has healed. Injecting through infected or inflamed skin raises the risk of complications.

Feeling unwell

If you have a cold, flu or any illness on the day, it is best to rearrange. Recent dental work or vaccinations can also be a reason to wait a short while before filler or skin boosters. I will advise you on timing.

Certain medical conditions

Some conditions mean treatment may not be safe or needs extra care. These include:

• Neuromuscular conditions such as myasthenia gravis, which rule out anti-wrinkle treatment
• Bleeding disorders, which increase the risk of bruising and bleeding
• Some autoimmune conditions, especially during a flare
• Uncontrolled diabetes, which can affect healing
• A history of severe allergic reactions

Having one of these does not always mean no. Sometimes it means we need to talk to your GP or take extra precautions.

Medicines and supplements

Blood thinners and some supplements such as fish oil or high-dose vitamin E can increase bruising. Certain antibiotics can interact with anti-wrinkle treatment. Never stop a prescribed medicine without speaking to your doctor first. Just let me know what you take and we will work out what is safe.

Allergies to ingredients

Many fillers and skin boosters contain hyaluronic acid and some contain lidocaine, a local anaesthetic. Polynucleotides such as Plenhyage XL Strong and Nucleofill are usually derived from fish. They are not suitable if you have a fish allergy.

Under 18s

In England it is illegal to give anti-wrinkle injections or dermal filler for cosmetic reasons to anyone under 18. I do not treat under 18s.

Emotional wellbeing

Aesthetic treatments should be a positive choice. If someone feels very distressed about their appearance or is seeking repeated treatments without ever feeling happy, it may not be the right time. In those cases I will gently suggest speaking to a GP. Your wellbeing matters more than any treatment.

Anti-wrinkle treatment and prescribing

Anti-wrinkle injections are a prescription-only medicine. Suitability is always decided at a face-to-face consultation with a prescriber who reviews your medical history.

If you are unsure whether a treatment would be suitable for you, book a free 15-minute consultation with me in Addlestone. We can go through your health history together in a relaxed way.