The Beauté Blog

Don’t Do Botox As A Preventative If You’re Under 40

We all look in the mirror and nitpick at our faces.  We see a wrinkle on our forehead and automatically think it's time for Botox.   Estheticians have a solution to naturally keep wrinkles and fine lines away with a less invasive procedure, but first, let’s learn what Botox is all about.

 What is Botox?

Botox is a cosmetic treatment that involves injecting a bacterial toxin called botulin into the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While many people see Botox as a quick fix for ageing, there are several reasons why you shouldn't consider Botox if you're under 40. Here are a few reasons to consider:

Natural Ageing Process:
Ageing is a natural process, and wrinkles are a part of that process. When you’re under 40, your body is still producing collagen, which is a protein that helps keep your skin firm and elastic.  Botox may disrupt the natural ageing process, causing you to look unnatural and less youthful

 Risks and side effects:
Botox injections are not without risks and side effects. They can cause muscle weakness, allergic reactions, and skin can become looser and thinner.  While these side effects are rare, they are more common in younger people who may have more sensitive skin or weaker immune systems.

Over-reliance on cosmetic treatments:
If you start getting Botox injections in your 20s or 30s, you may become reliant on cosmetic treatments to maintain your appearance.  Your muscles will no longer react to the treatment, causing a reverse effect.  This can be both financially and emotionally taxing, as you'll need to continue to get treatments to maintain the results.

Now, let's dive into it!  The non-invasive treatment everyone’s talking about, IPL Photofacial! 

What is IPL Photofacial?

IPL photofacial is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to improve the appearance of the skin. The treatment involves using a device that emits intense pulses of light to penetrate deep into the epidermis and targets various skin concerns. 

Why IPL Photofacial is a great Botox alternative 

IPL Photofacial is a great alternative because there are zero toxins injected into your skin.  IPL shoots energy into the deeper layers of your skin, causing your cells to rebuild and create new collagen. No matter how many years you have Photofacial done, your cells will always remember what to do and will create new collagen, which diminishes wrinkles just like Botox, but without the needles.  Unlike Botox, this treatment will tighten your skin, but you will still have full movement.  IPL is also great for breaking up melanin on the surface of the skin to get an even skin tone and remove unwanted pigmentation.

What are all the benefits to IPL Photofacial?

• Has great anti-ageing benefits and stimulates new collagen 

• Treats age and sun spots

• Treats acne

• Eliminates little red veins that are typically found around the nose area

• Helps redness, such as courpose or rosacea

• Helps even skin tone

Contradictions 

• IPL photofacial should not be performed on individuals with certain conditions, such as active cold sores, a recent history of herpes or Keloid scarring, lupus, porphyria, or vitiligo.

• Someone who has a heart condition, has a pacemaker, suffers from MS, or takes any medications that affect the central nervous system must not have this treatment.

• Someone who is taking photosensitive medication example, antibiotics or Accutane 

• Pregnant women or are breastfeeding

• The treatment is known to increase photosensitivity by 20%, so you must avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks pre-treatment and 2 weeks post-treatment. (Best time of year: fall, winter and early spring).
  
  In closing, doing Botox in your younger years is not the best idea in the long run. IPL Photofacial is a great anti-aging treatment with many benefits and longevity.  The treatment can be done over and over again throughout the years with the same great results.  All that being said, invest in IPL photofacial treatments before diving into Botox.
  
  Caitlin Nightingale
  Owner and Esthetician at Nightingale Beauté

The Beauté Blog

Everything You Need to Know About Lip Blushing

Lip blushing is the newest buzzword in semi-permanent makeup—and for good reason. This trending cosmetic tattooing procedure enhances your natural lip colour, improves shape, and creates the illusion of fuller, more youthful lips without fillers. If you’ve been wondering what lip blushing is, how it works, and whether it’s right for you, this blog covers all the essentials.

What Is Lip Blushing?

Lip blushing is a semi-permanent tattoo technique that uses a cosmetic tattoo machine to deposit pigment into the lips. The goal isn’t to create a dramatic, lipstick-heavy look, but to subtly enhance the natural tone, shape, and symmetry of the lips. Think of it as a long-lasting lip tint that improves definition, balances uneven tones, and adds a youthful flush of colour—all while keeping your lips looking soft and natural.

What Are the Benefits?

Natural enhancement: Gives your lips a more defined, symmetrical look and corrects missing pigment.

Long-lasting colour: A tint that lasts 2–3 years with proper care.

Saves time: No more daily lip liner or tint.

Neutralize dark pigments for an even lip tone.

Custom shades: Choose from a wide range of colours tailored to your skin tone and personal style.

Filler-friendly: Complements lip fillers by adding definition and colour to the vermillion border.

The Procedure

The process typically takes 2–3 hours and includes a consultation, numbing, colour selection, and the tattooing itself.

1. Consultation: Your artist will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and help choose a pigment shade that suits you.

2. Numbing: A topical anesthetic is applied to minimize discomfort.

3. Tattooing: A small, single-needle machine deposits pigment into the lips in layers.

4. Healing: Your lips will go through a healing process (typically 7–10 days) and lighten by up to 50% once healed.

Healing & Aftercare During healing, you may experience:

* Swelling * Tenderness

* Flaking or peeling

* Slight scabbing

Aftercare tips: * Keep lips clean and moisturized * Avoid makeup, spicy foods, and kissing for the first few days * Apply healing ointment as instructed * Avoid direct sun exposure and exfoliants. It’s also crucial to take an antiviral medication beforehand if you're prone to cold sores.

Touch-Ups & Longevity

A follow-up session is typically scheduled 6–8 weeks after the initial appointment to refine shape and pigment retention. After that, results can last between 2 to 3 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and skincare routine.

Is Lip Blushing Right for You?

Lip blushing is generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable if you:

* Are pregnant or nursing

* Have certain skin conditions around the mouth

* Are on blood thinners or Accutane

* Have frequent cold sores (consult your provider first)

Always choose a **licensed and experienced technician** who follows strict hygiene protocols and uses high-quality, hypoallergenic pigments.

Final Thoughts

Lip blushing is a beautiful, low-maintenance way to enhance your natural features. Whether you’re tired of reapplying lip colour every day or want to restore youthful vibrancy to your lips, this treatment offers a subtle yet impactful transformation. Ready to wake up with picture-perfect lips every day? Book your consultation and discover what lip blushing can do for you!