Rachel M. Duke, NP, CANS, started her career of caring for patients in 1997 as a Registered Nurse. She worked in the Emergency Department and as an Organ Transplant Coordinator through 2004 before deciding to become a Nurse Practitioner. Through those experiences, she discovered a love for aesthetics and shifted her focus to the industry in 2005. In 2013, Rachel became Central Virginia’s first Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist. She trained with leading aesthetic experts across the country to perfect her craft, with a focus on delivering the best outcomes for her patients. She launched Richmond’s first nurse-owned and physician-independent Injectables Boutique in 2020. Rachel has been named one of America’s Top 100 Injectors since 2018, and Real Self tapped her as one of its Top 25 Injectors. Haute Beauty expert Rachel Duke discusses what you should know before you go visit an aesthetic injector to make sure your appointment goes smoothly.

Photo Credit: ShutterstockThere’s always a first time. If you have your eye on a new aesthetic injector, it’s natural to feel a few butterflies. And unlike a first date or coffee with a new friend, you’re going to be trusting them with your face.

There are ways to make things more comfortable — and to go in feeling confident that you’ve laid the groundwork for a new professional in your life. Here are questions I suggest considering before booking that appointment.

1. What’s the injector’s background?

This is a given. Look for credentials and years of experience.

But beyond that, check for signs that the injector is interested in continuing education. We’re always learning about new techniques and innovations. Ask them about how often they seek such training, and when they last attended an anatomy course — this knowledge is critical for safe and effective treatments.

If you can’t ask the injector directly, check their social media, Instagram or LinkedIn accounts for signs that they’re reading new articles, engaging with professional colleagues, or posting about training experiences.

2. Will the injector listen?

Everyone is unique. You’ll probably find the most rewarding experience with someone who considers your overall wellbeing, specific situation, and aesthetic preferences. Your personal concerns aren’t trivial, and they’re integral for helping with your look and confidence. Ask how long your appointment will be. If you have friends or access to reviews, find out whether the injector spends time with patients and listens.

3. Are you both on the same page?

You’ll want an injector who’s on the same page with outcomes. Look at before and after pictures. Ask the injector about their approach when it comes to aesthetics and style. Ask yourself: Is this someone I could see as a friend? If you have an issue or complication, you need to feel comfortable discussing this with your injector openly and honestly. You’re building a relationship with your injector — someone you’ll continue to see as you age and experience such milestones as weddings, reunions, and job promotions. Trust is key.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock4. Do you appreciate your injector’s personal aesthetics?

This question may be more for you. If you want to avoid an overdone face and achieve natural results, you might take a cue from your injector’s own appearance. Review before and after photos, and get referrals from friends whose results you admire.

5. What injectables do you offer, and how often will I need them?

In the injectables boutique, I started in Richmond, Virginia, I offer dermal fillers and both muscle relaxers, Botox and Dysport. Dermal fillers include treatments such as lip filler, jawline definition, and cheek and chin augmentation. Filler products include Juvederm and Restylane. I also provide a treatment called Kybella, which is used to dissolve fat under the chin or treatment for double chin.

While the answers may vary, Botox is needed typically every three to four months. Dermal filler depends on where you’re injected and what product is used. On average, maintaining filler injection is required yearly. Kybella is a permanent treatment but can require two to four sessions.

6. How accessible is the injector?

One of the concerns I heard through my years is that busy patients wanted a quick, hassle-free way to make appointments and change them as needed. That’s why I incorporated an online booking system into my new boutique. Customers find it easy to skip a phone call and check available appointments at their leisure. It’s also good to ask friends how easy it is to get in touch with their injector. Do they maintain social media that allows you to ask questions directly? Do they respond to emails and phone calls in a timely way? How far out do you have to book? Do they stay in touch with you and share knowledge and updates through email newsletters? It’s good to know you can reach your injector when needed, and that they’re in touch with you too.