Dr Alastair Clark discusses annual treatment plans that focus on a holistic approach to skin care. These methods use less invasive procedures regularly to maintain natural, youthful skin. He explores how combining different treatments can achieve lasting results without drastic changes.

There is a common belief in aesthetic medicine that treatments are costly and can leave patients looking overly modified. This belief, unfortunately, often holds true, as the media tends to highlight the less desirable outcomes.

However, there is another side to the aesthetic narrative. Countless men and women globally undergo aesthetic procedures annually without the risks or sensational media coverage. This is achievable through contemporary treatment plans and methodologies, something I have developed at SAI over the last 12 years. Essentially, it involves opting for less invasive procedures more frequently to prevent the signs of ageing in a natural manner.

So, does this method lack a ‘WOW Factor’?

Patients desire noticeable, tangible changes. However, the straightforward response is a resounding no. At SAI, we provide comprehensive, multi-faceted treatments designed to not only rejuvenate your skin but also produce visible results.

The Comprehensive Annual Matrix

Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters – This involves multiple injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) that deeply moisturise and stimulate collagen in the dermis, resulting in naturally fuller skin with fewer fine lines and no alteration to your facial structure. The difference will be obvious yet indiscernible in terms of the specific changes. Many fine lines will disappear, thanks to healthier skin at the cellular level, offering that ‘wow’ effect. As we age or if we’re exposed to more oxidative stress, the frequency of skin booster sessions may need to increase, typically bi-annually.
Selective HA Dermal Filler Application – After establishing a foundation with skin boosters and monthly superficial chemical peels to promote cell renewal, the next phase is to enhance long-term results by restoring youthful balance without modifying the facial structure.
Lip Enhancement – Ageing often brings subtle changes in symmetry that affect perceptions of our appearance. For instance, with age, the corners of our lips may droop, and the cupid’s bow may lose definition. Strategic HA dermal filler injections can not only add volume but also reclaim youthful characteristics, making you appear significantly younger. Additionally, botulinum toxin injections can address those fine lines and wrinkles.
Focused Treatments – Regular monthly clinic visits are crucial for light maintenance treatments and adjustments tailored to your needs. This strategy provides an important chance to address specific concerns, boosting self-esteem. At SAI, we also perform deep HA dermal filler procedures to enhance facial symmetry, focusing on areas like the jawline or cheekbones, using only small amounts of product due to the already improved skin health. Sometimes, a change in skincare regimen is necessary to tackle issues like breakouts due to lifestyle or hormonal shifts. Early intervention can prevent larger issues later on, and because this approach is centred on cellular health, results tend to be rapid.

For these improvements, we often utilise lasers, HA dermal fillers, mesotherapy, and dermabrasion as interim treatments throughout the year, adjusting and maintaining as needed. Your actual age will remain a mystery to others!

3 dr alastair clark aesthetics less is more

Sustained Advantages

The essence of this holistic strategy is to start now. Regular minor adjustments help sustain a youthful look more effortlessly. Consider these benefits as the ongoing rewards of your investment.

Moderation is Key

It’s important to recognize that this holistic method not only promotes skin and cellular health but also is more cost-effective and requires less recovery time. Extravagant treatments that consume both time and money aren’t necessary. Routine maintenance should be budgeted for, similar to regular visits to the hairdresser or nail salon. The underlying principle here is the advantage of gradual, consistent care.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice.

Dr Alastair Clark

Sandton Aesthetic Institute | +27 0(11) 883 3116 | myskin@sandtonaesthetics.co.za | Website

MBBCh . General practitioner with special interest (GPSI) in Aesthetic Medicine.

Dr Alastair Clark is a full-time Medical Aesthetic Practice at his clinic Sandton Aesthetic Institute in Johannesburg, South Africa. He designs and delivers courses in the disciplines of filler volumisation, neuromuscular modulation with botulinum neurotoxin, non-surgical thread lifts, IPL and laser, chemical peels, as well as physical treatments of the skin. Dr Clark has presented and given live demonstrations at numerous international congresses in Europe, Asia and South Africa, including IMCAS Paris and China, World Congress Aesth Med in Monaco, AMCSA and Tehran, Iran.

He has had a career-long commitment to education and training Aesthetic Medicine to develop a competent and safe faculty in South Africa. He is the current president of the Anti-Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine Society of Southern Africa (AAMSSA).