While cosmetic treatments can seem like the fountain of youth, they’re not without their risks. From unexpected side effects to botched procedures, these treatments can sometimes do more harm than good if not done correctly. If you’re thinking about getting any of these, make sure you’re in the hands of a skilled professional.
1. Lip Fillers: Say Goodbye to “Trout Pout”
Full lips are always in style, but getting lip fillers can sometimes go wrong. Overfilled lips or poor technique can result in the dreaded “trout pout” or uneven, lumpy lips. When done right, fillers can look amazing, but a little restraint goes a long way in keeping your look natural and balanced.
2. Botox: Frozen Face Alert
Botox is fantastic for smoothing out wrinkles and giving your face a fresh, youthful look. But if you get too much of it, you might find yourself stuck with a face that barely moves. Overdoing it can weaken your facial muscles over time, so stick to just enough to keep things looking natural.
3. Thread Lifts: The Subtle Skin Tightener
Thread lifts are a quick and easy way to lift sagging skin without going under the knife. But this minimally invasive treatment isn’t completely foolproof—threads can sometimes break or cause lumps under the skin. Always choose a pro with plenty of experience to keep those risks in check.
4. Microdermabrasion: Fresh Skin or Frustration?
Microdermabrasion is perfect for exfoliating and revealing brighter skin, but too much of it can lead to irritation and redness. Overdoing this treatment or using improper techniques can damage your skin’s protective barrier, so moderation is key to keeping your skin happy and healthy.
5. Eyelash Extensions: Glam Lashes with a Catch
Eyelash extensions can give you gorgeous, fluttery lashes without the need for mascara, but they come with some risks. Poor application or lack of aftercare can lead to irritated eyes, infections, or even damage to your natural lashes. Always go to a lash technician who knows their stuff.
6. Chemical Peels: Proceed with Caution
Chemical peels can work wonders for rejuvenating your skin, but they’re not without risk. If you have sensitive or darker skin, you could end up with burns or uneven pigmentation if the peel isn’t done correctly. Make sure you patch-test first and choose an experienced professional.
7. CoolSculpting: The Fat Freeze Gamble
CoolSculpting is a favorite for non-surgical fat reduction, but there’s a rare chance that treated fat cells could grow larger instead of disappearing—a condition called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. It’s a low-risk procedure, but one that still requires careful consideration.
8. Laser Hair Removal: Smooth Skin, But Be Careful
Laser hair removal can be a game-changer for managing unwanted hair, but it’s not without its risks. Incorrect settings or poor technique can lead to burns or skin discoloration, especially on darker skin tones. It’s crucial to choose a technician with plenty of experience with different skin types.
9. Tanning Beds: Glow at Your Own Risk
While a sun-kissed glow is always in style, tanning beds are not the way to get it. They expose your skin to high levels of UV radiation, which can speed up aging and increase your risk of skin cancer. Stick to self-tanners or spray tans for a safer alternative that still gives you that golden glow.
10. Dermal Fillers: Filling in the Risks
Dermal fillers can beautifully add volume to your face, but they can also cause problems like infections or uneven results if not done properly. The filler can even migrate over time, leaving you with a puffy or distorted appearance. Choose a qualified injector to get the look you want without the drama.
11. Tattoo Removal: Painful and Risky
Getting rid of a tattoo can be a painful process, and it’s not as simple as it sounds. Tattoo removal can lead to scarring, burns, or changes in skin pigmentation if not performed correctly. Plus, it often requires multiple sessions, increasing the chances of complications.
12. Dermaplaning: Smooth Skin, But Handle with Care
Dermaplaning is a great way to get rid of peach fuzz and dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion. But if the treatment isn’t done properly, you could end up with nicks or irritation. Always ensure that the person performing the procedure has the right training to avoid any mishaps.
13. Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Plump It Up with Precautions
Hyaluronic acid injections are fantastic for boosting your skin’s hydration and volume, but they come with risks. Incorrect injections can lead to lumps or uneven results, and in severe cases, vascular issues. Make sure your injector has the experience needed to get it right the first time.