A Note from Kelly
At Artistry Medical Aesthetics, we believe in empowering you to make informed, confident choices—especially when it comes to your face.
Kelly wanted to share this blog because it highlights a truth that often gets overlooked: aesthetic treatments are medical procedures, and they should be treated with the same level of care and professionalism. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about protecting your health and well-being.
We want to emphasize: “Don’t Groupon your face.”
That means taking the time to thoroughly vet your injector, asking the right questions, and never compromising safety for a deal.
This blog—sparked by a recent John Oliver segment—is a timely reminder of why choosing a qualified, ethical provider matters. Keep reading to learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how to protect yourself while still enjoying safe, beautiful results.
If you saw the recent John Oliver segment on med spas, you already know the beauty industry has some serious blind spots — especially when it comes to safety and regulation. And he’s not wrong.
From counterfeit Botox to illegal injections and undertrained staff, the rise of aesthetic medicine has brought both innovation and a flood of providers who aren’t playing by the rules.
But here’s the good news: you can still enjoy safe, beautiful results — as long as you know what to look for.
Let’s break it down.
The GFE: Why a Good Faith Exam Matters
Before you ever receive an injectable like Botox, filler, or even laser treatments, you’re legally required to have a Good Faith Exam (GFE) with a qualified medical provider. This isn’t just a formality — it’s what ensures the treatment is safe and appropriate for your body.
What a proper GFE looks like:
- A live, private consultation with a licensed MD, PA, or NP
- Review of your medical history, allergies, and medications
- A clear plan for treatment with your full consent
If this step is skipped, rushed, or done over text? That’s a red flag.
The Truth About Counterfeit Botox
John Oliver’s piece also highlighted a growing concern: counterfeit Botox. It’s not only ineffective — it’s dangerous.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Always ask to see the vial before treatment
- Look for the official Allergan hologram on the bottle
- Make sure the injector is using a new, sealed vial just for you
Reputable providers are never offended when you ask questions. In fact, they should welcome them.
At Artistry Medical Aesthetics, we only use FDA-approved products like:
- Botox Cosmetic for smoothing dynamic wrinkles
- Juvederm for natural-looking volume and contour
- Kybella for permanent fat reduction under the chin
- SkinVive by Juvederm, the newest skin booster for smoother, more hydrated cheeks
All our injectable services are tracked through Allē, the official loyalty program from Allergan, so you know you’re getting authentic products—and you earn rewards along the way.
Vet Your Injector Like You’d Vet a Surgeon
If someone’s injecting something into your face, you deserve to know exactly who they are and what they’re qualified to do.
Before you book, check the following:
1. Check Their Credentials
Just like you wouldn’t let an unqualified person operate on you, you shouldn’t let someone without medical training inject substances into your face. Look for:
- Medical licenses (RN, NP, PA, MD, or DO)
- Certifications in aesthetic medicine
- Verified training in injectables and facial anatomy
2. Review Their Experience
A great injector is not just medically qualified—they also have hands-on experience and an artistic eye. Ask:
- How long have they been injecting?
- What brands do they work with?
- Do they have a portfolio of before-and-after results?
3. Understand Their Approach
Good surgeons explain procedures, risks, and expected outcomes. Your injector should too. They should:
- Offer a thorough consultation
- Be honest about what will and won’t work for your goals
- Never rush you into treatments
4. Research Their Reputation
Would you book surgery based on a random ad? Probably not. Same goes here. Look for:
- Verified reviews
- Referrals from trusted sources
- A clean, professional clinic setting
Related: Bellingham Laser Skin Resurfacing: 23 Ways to Transform Your Skin Without Surgery
Our Commitment to Safe, Ethical Aesthetic Care
John Oliver’s recent segment shed light on real concerns within the aesthetic industry. While it was eye-opening for many, it reinforced what has always guided our philosophy at Artistry Medical Aesthetics: that aesthetic care should be grounded in safety, integrity, and evidence-based practice.
We are deeply committed to upholding the highest standards in everything we do, and that means:
- Using only FDA-approved, clinically proven products and technologies
- Staying at the forefront of medical research and advanced aesthetic techniques
- Providing clear, honest consultations and personalized treatment plans
- Maintaining a welcoming, luxurious environment rooted in professional medical care
Your trust means everything to us, and we are honored to be a place where safety, quality, and natural results come together.
A Thoughtful Approach to Aesthetic Care
Choosing where to receive aesthetic treatments is an important decision—one that should be made with care, clarity, and confidence. Whether you’re exploring options like Botox, Kybella, Juvederm, or advanced skin care, it’s essential to work with a provider who values safety, transparency, and individualized care.
At our Bellingham location—1155 N. State Street, Suite 603—you’ll find a team dedicated to thoughtful, medically informed practices. We believe that trust, education, and respect for natural results should always guide the aesthetic experience.
Your well-being is at the heart of every decision we make.