Frequently Asked Questions

Premium injectable treatments that restore confidence and reveal your natural beauty in New Zealand

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Consultations & Clinic Policies

Is microneedling safe for dark skin tones?

Yes! Unlike lasers, which target pigment and can carry risks for darker skin types, microneedling is a mechanical process and is safe and highly effective for all Fitzpatrick skin types.

Will I be pressured into buying treatments I don't want?

Never. Our philosophy is education-first. We provide you with a comprehensive facial assessment and a tailored plan. You are in complete control of your timeline and budget, with zero pressure to book.

Can I get microneedling if I have active acne?

We cannot microneedle directly over active, inflamed acne as it can spread bacteria. We will first clear the acne (often using specific peels or skincare) before treating the scars.

How many units are required for jaw slimming?

The masseter is a very strong muscle and requires higher doses than forehead wrinkles. It typically takes between 20 to 50 units per side, depending on the strength and size of your muscle.

Can I get anti-wrinkle injections while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. As a strict medical precaution, we do not perform any cosmetic injectable treatments on clients who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I still take my regular migraine medication?

Yes, you should continue your prescribed acute medications as directed by your doctor. Botulinum Toxin is a preventative therapy, designed to reduce how often you need to use those acute medications.

How long do I have to wait after dissolving to get new filler?

You must wait a minimum of 2 weeks after dissolving before we can place fresh filler. This allows all swelling to completely subside and ensures the dissolving enzyme is entirely out of your system.

How long does a consultation with the Cosmetic Nurse take?

A comprehensive consultation typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes. This gives us ample time to understand your medical history, discuss your aesthetic goals, and create a bespoke treatment roadmap.

How often should I get microneedling for texture?

We generally recommend a course of 3 to 6 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. For maintenance, a session every few months keeps your skin smooth and glowing.

Am I a suitable candidate for fat dissolving injections?

It is best for clients with a distinct, pinchable pocket of fat under the chin. It is not a weight-loss treatment and is not suitable if the fullness is caused entirely by loose skin.

Preparation & Aftercare

Does medical microneedling hurt?

We apply a strong, medical-grade topical anesthetic cream before the procedure. You will feel a vibrating sensation and some pressure, but the treatment is highly tolerable.

Do chemical peels hurt or burn?

You may feel a warm, tingling, or slightly "spicy" sensation while the active peel solution is on your skin, but it should not be painful. Our lighter peels feel very comfortable.

Are dermal fillers painful?

We prioritize your comfort. Premium fillers contain Lidocaine (a local anesthetic) inside the gel, which numbs the area as we inject. We also use topical numbing cream for sensitive areas like the lips.

Are there any side effects of Botox or Dysport?

Mild, temporary side effects can include slight redness or a tiny mosquito-bite-like bump at the injection site, which usually disappears within 15 minutes. Occasional mild bruising or a transient headache can also occur.

How long does the peeling process last?

If you have a deeper peel that induces visible shedding, the flaking usually begins on day 3 and is fully complete by day 5 to 7. Light "lunchtime" peels have no visible shedding at all.

Can I wash my face the night after microneedling?

We advise avoiding washing your face the evening of your treatment. Let the serums applied in-clinic fully absorb. The next morning, you may use a gentle cleanser and tepid water.

How severe is the swelling after Aqualyx?

Swelling is a guaranteed part of the process—it indicates the fat cells are breaking down. You should expect your double chin to look slightly larger for the first 3 to 5 days before it begins to shrink.

What should I bring or do to prepare for my consultation?

Come with a clean face if possible, and bring a list of your current skincare products and any medications you take. It also helps to bring reference photos of results you admire (and results you don't!).

How long does my face stay red after microneedling?

Your skin will look and feel like you have a moderate sunburn immediately after. This redness typically subsides significantly within 24 to 48 hours.

Can I get a chemical peel in the summer?

Yes, but strict sun protection is non-negotiable. If you cannot commit to wearing SPF 50+ daily and wearing a hat outdoors, it is safer to save deeper peels for the winter months.

Medical Wellness

How do injections stop excessive sweating?

We use neurotoxins (Botulinum Toxin) injected into the skin. This blocks the chemical signals from the nerves that tell your sweat glands to activate, effectively turning off the sweat production in that specific area.

How do anti-wrinkle injections help with TMJ and teeth grinding?

We inject the masseter muscles (the large chewing muscles at the back of the jaw) to relax them. This stops the involuntary, intense clenching and grinding that causes TMJ pain.

How do injections treat chronic migraines?

Botulinum Toxin is a medically proven preventative for migraines. By relaxing the muscles in the forehead, neck, and shoulders, it reduces physical tension triggers and helps block the nerve pain signals sent to the brain.

Will masseter Botox affect my smile?

When performed correctly by an experienced injector, it will not affect your smile. The masseter is a chewing muscle, not a smiling muscle. We carefully map the injection points to avoid the risorius (smile) muscle.

How exactly does Botox stop sweating?

Botox temporarily blocks the release of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that triggers your sweat glands. Without this signal, the glands simply do not produce sweat in the treated area.

How many injections are needed for migraine treatment?

The standard clinical protocol for chronic migraines involves approximately 30 to 40 shallow injections across specific points on the forehead, temples, back of the head, and upper neck.

Is hyperhidrosis treatment safe?

Yes, this is a highly safe, FDA-approved medical treatment for excessive sweating. It targets only the local sweat glands and does not affect your body's overall ability to cool itself.

Will masseter Botox change the shape of my face?

Yes, it often will. When the masseter muscle works less, it shrinks (atrophies). This is a highly desired side effect that slims a square, wide lower face into a softer, more oval contour.

Who is a suitable candidate for migraine injection therapy?

This treatment is generally for adults who experience frequent, debilitating headaches (often defined as 15 or more headache days a month) and haven't found relief with standard medications.

How long does a TMJ Botox appointment take?

The injections take just a few minutes. We book a 30-minute consultation slot to palpate the muscle, assess your bite strength, and determine the exact dosage required.

Skin Health & Rejuvenation

How quickly will I see results from Sunekos?

Sunekos requires a course of 3 to 4 treatments. You will typically start noticing a brightening effect and reduced dark circles a few weeks after your second session.

Will my skin bleed during microneedling?

A slight "pinpoint" bleeding is completely normal and actually desired—it shows we have reached the correct depth to trigger the healing and collagen cascade.

Cosmetic Injectables

What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?

Both are premium brands of Botulinum Toxin. They work similarly to relax muscles, but Dysport has a slightly smaller molecule size, making it spread slightly differently. We choose the best one for your specific needs.

What are dermal fillers made of?

The majority of our fillers are made from Hyaluronic Acid (HA), a naturally occurring sugar substance in the body that keeps skin plump and hydrated.

What causes dark circles under the eyes?

Dark circles can be caused by true hollowing (a structural shadow), thinning skin that reveals blood vessels, hyperpigmentation, or a combination of all three.

What is Aqualyx fat dissolving?

Aqualyx is an injectable compound made from a modified bile acid. When injected into stubborn fat deposits, it breaks down the fat cell membrane permanently.

How do anti-wrinkle injections help with TMJ and teeth grinding?

We inject the masseter muscles (the large chewing muscles at the back of the jaw) to relax them. This stops the involuntary, intense clenching and grinding that causes TMJ pain.

How long does an anti-wrinkle appointment take?

The actual injections take less than 5 minutes. However, we book 30-minute appointments to ensure we have ample time to discuss your goals, review your facial anatomy, and answer any questions.

How much filler do I need for my lips?

For a natural enhancement, 0.5ml is often perfect for subtle hydration, while 1ml provides more noticeable volume. We will assess your natural lip shape and discuss the best approach during your consultation.

Is tear trough filler dangerous?

The under-eye area is complex, which is why it should only be treated by an experienced medical professional. We use a blunt-tipped cannula instead of a sharp needle to significantly maximize safety and minimize bruising.

What makes Radiesse different from regular fillers?

Radiesse is a biostimulator made of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA). While HA fillers simply take up space, Radiesse acts as a scaffold that forces your body to produce its own fresh collagen and elastin.

What is the difference between Profhilo and dermal filler?

Dermal fillers stay where they are placed to build volume and shape. Profhilo is a bioremodelling skin booster that flows smoothly under the skin like honey, hydrating the tissue without changing your facial contours.

Take the first step

Ready to enhance your natural beauty? Contact us today to schedule your personalised consultation and discover how we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

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