Q. How can customers differentiate between original and fake machinery for procedures?
Normally, famous device companies have a clinic locator on their website. So, if someone is searching for an Original Hydrafacial from the USA or a Thermage or Fraxel treatment, a person can simply go to their website, and type in the city and country to find the clinics which have these devices installed. Only the real ones will be listed as the information is given to the companies by the dealers who sell them. Other than that, a person can ask for the equipment, and check it on the original website to see whether it is identical. Sometimes, the copy is so perfect that it looks exactly like the original. There are Chinese copies of American devices and clinics openly advertise it as the original from the USA.
Q. One cosmetic procedure that you do not recommend?
I do not recommend peels as they are harsh and have a high probability of causing pigmentation. Also, ablative resurfacing procedures by lasers are something to be careful about, as it removes the top layer of the skin leaving it highly prone to pigmentation.
Q. What things must a customer look out for when selecting a salon for their cosmetic procedure?
First, and foremost, cleanliness and sterilization. This is the most important factor which can lead to so many issues. Product quality is to be seen in its original packaging, not in tiny cups. Ensure that you see the product applied on you being dispensed in front of you, If a device is used, make sure it is not Chinese as Chinese equipment results inbad in results.
Q. With so many HydraFacial machines surfacing, how to identify the authentic one?
For the reader’s information, a Chinese HydraFacial costs 60 times less than the original one. However, the procedure cost is similar for both devices. This is so unfair, but people do not know.
To identify the original ones, go to www.hydrafacial.com and click the tab of clinic locator to identify ways to authenticate the machine and avoid being scammed.
Q. What is the most common side effect customers have suffered due to aesthetic malpractice?
The foremost complaint by people going to clinics is that they did not see any results. The second complaint is that they got more pigmentation when they went in to get it cleared in the first place.
Thirdly, patients complain that they were overcharged, or sold a treatment by pushing them to do it. Fourthly, a substandard product was prescribed to them simply because the doctor has benefited from the pharmaceutical company.
