AESTHETICALLY PLEASING
Choosing a reputable and trustworthy clinic is essential for ensuring safe and effective aesthetic treatments. Always do research before booking an appointment and follow these safety guidelines from Dr Mahsa Saleki, founder of SAS Aesthetics...
When choosing an aesthetics clinic, there are several red ags that patients should watch out for.
Here, aesthetic doctor and founder of SAS Aesthetics, Dr Mahsa Saleki, presents the key things to take note of when choosing an aesthetic clinic, how to navigate pressure selling, and how to determine if a clinic really is trustworthy...
Lack of before-and-after photos or testimonials
Before-and-after photos and patient testimonials can provide valuable insight into a clinic’s quality of work and patient satisfaction.
Patients should ask to see examples of the clinic’s previous work and seek out reviews from past patients.
If a clinic cannot provide this information or has negative reviews, it may be a sign to look for alternative options.
The lack of a clear trail in the booking system
A reputable clinic should have a transparent and traceable booking process, ensuring that appointments are properly scheduled and documented.
If a clinic lacks this, it may indicate disorganisation or potential issues with tracking patient appointments and treatments.
An Instagram-only online presence
While social media can be a valuable tool for showcasing work and connecting with clients, a clinic that relies solely on Instagram for its online presence may lack a professional website or other essential digital platforms.
This can make it difficult for patients to access important information about the clinic, its services, and its practitioners.
Similarly, a clinic that only communicates through direct messages (DMS) on social media may not provide adequate support or information to patients.
Effective communication is essential in the aesthetics industry, and a clinic that limits communication to DMS may not prioritise patient care or address concerns in a timely manner.
Requiring bank transfer-only deposits
While some clinics may accept bank transfers for deposits, it’s important for patients to have other payment options available, such as credit card
payments or payment platforms like Paypal.
Bank transfers can be less secure and offer fewer protections for patients, so a clinic that exclusively relies on this method may not prioritise patient security or convenience.
Lack of proper licensing and certification
Patients should ensure that the clinic and its staff are properly licensed and certi ed to perform the treatments they offer.
This includes certi cations for speci c procedures and licenses from relevant regulatory bodies.
A clinic that cannot provide proof of these credentials should raise concerns.
Poor cleanliness and hygiene standards
A clinic’s cleanliness and hygiene standards are crucial indicators of its professionalism and commitment to patient safety.
Patients should look for signs of cleanliness, such as a tidy and organised environment, sterile equipment, and proper disposal of medical waste.
If a clinic appears unkempt or unclean, it may not be a safe place for treatment.
Lack of transparency and information
A reputable aesthetics clinic should be transparent about its services, pricing, and potential risks or side-effects of treatments.
Patients should be provided with detailed information about their treatment options, including alternative procedures and expected outcomes.
If a clinic is vague or evasive when discussing these details, it may be a red ag.
Pressure to undergo treatment
Patients should be wary of clinics that pressure them to undergo treatment or upsell unnecessary procedures. A reputable clinic will prioritise patient safety and well-being over
nancial gain and will not push patients into treatments they do not need or want. If a clinic’s staff is overly aggressive or pushy, it may be best to seek treatment elsewhere.