Core Aesthetics · Oakleigh

I have noticed facial ageing. What should I do first?

Start with one concern, not a shopping list of treatments. For gradual changes, identify what you want help with, check that your everyday skin care is comfortable, and use consistent sun protection. If the issue still bothers you, an assessment can explain the relevant options. A new or changing spot, pain, unexplained swelling or a sudden change needs medical advice first.

Adult woman used as an educational facial ageing assessment reference

1. Name the problem you want help with

Write down the most useful question for you: “How can I make my dry skin more comfortable?”, “Why is this line visible when my face is relaxed?” or “Why does my cheek look less full?” These are different questions. You do not need to decide which procedure answers them.

Add when you first noticed the change and whether it has been gradual. If you have previous treatment records, keep them with that note. This is enough preparation to begin a conversation; there is no need to inspect and catalogue your whole face.

2. Check the basics before adding more products

For intact skin that has not recently had a procedure, use gentle cleansing and a moisturiser that feels comfortable. Avoid scrubbing or repeatedly applying an ordinary cosmetic product that burns or stings. If a prescribed product causes a reaction, ask its prescriber for advice. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends gentle care and avoiding irritating products.

Include sun protection in your routine, not just a new serum. Cover up, seek shade and follow Australian sunscreen guidance. Our sun-damage guide explains the practical steps. Keep the labels of products you already own; an assessment is more useful if the practitioner can see your actual routine.

3. Choose the right kind of help

Your main concernA useful first action
Dryness or a routine that irritatesSimplify ordinary care; ask a pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist.
A new, changing, bleeding or non-healing spotArrange a medical skin assessment before cosmetic fading or resurfacing.
A stable line, fold or contour you want explainedRead the relevant education page or request an optional cosmetic assessment.
You feel pushed to decide by a discount, event or someone elseDo not make a treatment decision to meet that deadline.

A sudden, painful or rapidly worsening facial change should also be discussed with a medical practitioner. Cleveland Clinic describes when an apparent ageing change needs medical review.

4. Use a consultation to answer the question, not commit to a package

Ask: “What do you think is contributing to the feature I described, and what would you suggest doing first?” If a procedure is discussed, ask for its likely limitations, important risks and total cost in terms you understand. Ask what the plan would be if you chose no procedure. Individual assessment and alternatives are part of Ahpra’s cosmetic-procedure guidance.

At Core Aesthetics, an initial consultation is free and usually takes 30 minutes. Consultations are with Corey Anderson RN. You can bring a short list of products, relevant medicines and previous care, along with the question you want answered. See what a facial-ageing assessment involves.

5. Leave with a manageable next step

Your next step might be trying a simpler skin-care routine, making a medical appointment, getting further information or deciding that the feature does not need attention. If cosmetic care is proposed, take the information away if you need time. You should be able to explain what the recommendation is meant to address before deciding whether it suits you.

If you are comfortable doing nothing about a stable appearance change, there is no need to book a cosmetic appointment. If timing or unresolved previous care is the issue, read when it makes sense to wait.

Questions you may still have

Do I need to know the name of a treatment before booking?

No. Describe the feature or skin concern and the question you want answered. An initial consultation is for assessment and discussion.

Should I buy a whole anti-ageing skin-care range first?

No. Bring a list of what you use already. Start with a comfortable basic routine rather than adding several new products whose effects you cannot distinguish.

Is noticing a new wrinkle the same as having a medical problem?

Not necessarily. Gradual lines can be an ordinary appearance concern. Sudden change, pain, unexplained swelling or a changing skin spot needs a different, medical assessment.

How much is an initial consultation at Core Aesthetics?

The initial consultation is free and usually takes 30 minutes. Attending does not commit you to treatment.

Discuss your concern in Oakleigh

Core Aesthetics, 12A Atherton Road, Oakleigh VIC 3166, within BeautyTHEQUE. Initial consultations are free and usually take 30 minutes. Check live appointment availability or call 0491 706 705.