16 Jan 2024
Beat the January blues with an invigorating and rejuvenating treatment at Air Aesthetics in Christopher Place Shopping Centre…
Described by some as “a little piece of Harley Street”, there is nothing else in our city quite like Air Aesthetics for skincare treatments, advice and products all given under the expertise of well- renowned dermatologist Dr Claire Oliver, who co-founded the brand.
The aim of Air is “a doctor-led aesthetics and wellness clinic which offers a holistic, multi-dimensional approach to aesthetics that extends to total mind and body wellness – delivered in a friendly and luxurious environment”.
They say they are dedicated to enhancing the natural beauty and well-being of patients and have a philosophy of helping to empower people to be the most confident version of themselves.
Since Air’s arrival to Christopher Place in St Albans, towards the end of 2022, the clinic has been building a small, loyal customer base and providing them with the help and support they need to feel confident inside and out.
Claire said her passion for aesthetics was ignited at an early age due to her personal struggle with acne. Having initially practiced as a cosmetic dentist she further trained as an advanced aesthetics injector more than 20 years ago with a special interest in skin.
Fellow business partner Jayne McIntosh’s passion for skincare began with the Simple brand. Jayne was instrumental in developing Simple into a comprehensive range of skin, bath, toiletry and hair products to appeal to a wider range of consumers, with the common goal of healthy skin.
They both said that it has been wonderful to meet and support other local businesses, including those at Christopher Place, and get involved in some key initiatives across St Albans.
I asked what their most popular treatments are which understandably changes with the seasons, as our skin does:
“In the spring and summer CoolSculpting Elite, the non-surgical, permanent fat reduction treatment, is hugely popular. The Elite is the most advanced Cyrolipolysis treatment available in the UK and is the only FDA cleared treatment, meaning its safety and results are proven.
“This winter Secret RF, Profhilo and a new trending treatment, Polynucleotides have captured interest. Secret RF tightens the skin using radio frequency whilst rejuvenating and reducing fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage and noticeably improving texture and tone.
“Polynucleotides are derived from DNA fragments extracted from fish, which mirror human DNA.
“They have emerged as a game-changer in the world of aesthetics due to their unique mechanics: unlike traditional dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, or even Profhilo treatments, Polynucleotides work by using the biological molecules that help to remodel the skin and improve many of the common signs of ageing.”In addition to treatments, the dermatologist explained having a unique ‘3-Step Approach’ to healthy skin which involves skincare and boosting and banking collagen.
On products, she said: “As a centre of excellence and skin experts, we recommend ZO SkinHealth and Medical products. Dr Zein Obagi is the world’s number one dermatologist
and their products and treatments contain higher levels of active ingredients such as Retinol, compared to beauty or over the counter products.
“These products are designed to work both superficially and in the deep dermal layers of the skin to noticeably correct damage and signs of ageing.”
So what should people look for when they are thinking about having facial treatments? Claire said it is important that potential customers research a place before they go there.
She called it a ‘4 P’s Plan’.
- Thoroughly research your practitioner’s qualifications and experience. Remember, medically trained practitioners are recommended especially for treatments such as Botox and Dermal Fillers.
- Read about the products being used. There is a plethora of products available but only a small number are approved by the US Food & Drug Association (FDA). It’s also wise to ask to see before and after photos of clients the practitioner has treated themselves in order to check results are natural and in keeping with what you want to achieve.
- Check out the place. Treatments are medical not beauty treatments and should only be performed within a clinical environment by a medically qualified practitioner with the correct equipment.
- And never be tempted by a cheap price. We are often guided by the price tag however, when it comes to our health, bodies and face we should never look for a cheap deal.
Dr Claire Oliver loves her job and that is clear by the big smile on her face. She said: “I feel privileged that clients put their trust in me to help them feel more confident, inside and out. I’m also incredibly proud of the team and the business we’ve built. Air Aesthetics is multi-award winning for a reason – we are excited to continue our growth, and for everything that 2024 has in store.
So, why should people give Air a try?
“Air Aesthetics and Wellness is a centre of excellence for world-leading, non-invasive treatments and offers a holistic, multi-dimensional approach to aesthetics that helps enhance the natural beauty and well-being of patients, empowering them to be the best and most confident version of themselves.
“With a commitment to excellence and innovation, our team of highly skilled professionals is led by Dr Claire Oliver, who has over 20 years’ experience as an Aesthetics Practitioner, using the highest quality FDA approved products, treatments and devices.”
Find out more at airaesthetics.co.uk/st-albans/
St Albans Times readers can enjoy a JLO HydraFacial for an introductory price of £125.
Open Mondays to Tuesdays 10am-6pm, Wednesdays 10am-7pm, Thursdays 10am-8pm, Fridays 9am-6pm, Saturdays 9am-5pm, closed on Sundays.
