LESS IS MORE
Leanne Cashmore of Cashmore Clinic on the art of looking refreshed and never ‘done’
PHOTO SALINA GALVAN
There’s a common misconception about lip filler that I’d love to put to rest. It’s that when you do it, everyone will know.
One of the questions I hear most often is, “Will I look done?” I always say, “Not if we’re doing it well.”
For me, lip enhancement has never been about creating a dramatically different mouth. I look at what’s already there and ask how we can restore softness and definition in a way that feels completely at home on your face.
As we age, we naturally lose volume in the lips and definition around the border. Fine lines can become more noticeable, too, and the overall effect can make the lower face look a little more tired or harsh than it once did. A small, considered amount of hyaluronic acid filler can help replenish some of what’s been lost, subtly refreshing the area without changing the fundamental shape.
Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the body that plays an important role in hydration and volume. When used thoughtfully, it can enhance, rather than transform.
That’s where I think the conversation around lip filler needs to change. We’re quite comfortable talking about Botox, teeth whitening, laser treatments and skincare as part of a broader approach to looking after ourselves. Lip filler can be the same. Rather than becoming the first thing people see, it’s a small aesthetic treatment that supports your overall appearance.
The technique matters enormously, and so does restraint. My approach is always to use the minimum amount needed to achieve the desired result, taking into account your natural anatomy and proportions, and what you want to achieve. The goal is never to make everyone look the same.
It’s also important to remember that lip filler is a medical treatment. Choosing an experienced, appropriately qualified injector who understands facial anatomy is essential.
At the end of the day, the best result is one that looks like you, just a little fresher.
