Life style

Leading cosmetic doctor says under-30s are overdoing Botox and fillers

Published

3 years ago

2023/01/1

A leading cosmetic doctor known as the “king of Botox” claims young people have “lost the plot” by overdoing treatments in an attempt to recreate filtered social media aesthetics in real life. He also criticised colleagues, some of whom he said have had so much work done he no longer recognises them, for fuelling the trend.While Botox and fillers were once most popular among older patients seeking discreet anti-ageing solutions, Dr Michael Prager said that a “visibly enhanced” look had become a fashion trend among under-30s who wanted the work to show.

The doctor, who has a clinic in Knightsbridge, London, said there was no longer a stigma in dramatically changing their appearance, with young people viewing physical changes as a “status symbol” tantamount to wearing a designer label. “Generally, anybody under 30 has basically lost the plot,” Prager, 54, said. “They haven’t spent enough time in the playground and they grew up with thumbs in a crooked position in front of a screen and now that’s their life.”

The all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on beauty, aesthetics and wellbeing said last year the non-surgical cosmetic treatment industry had undergone “rapid growth”. An estimated 900,000 Botox injections are carried out in the UK each year. The doctor, who has a clinic in Knightsbridge, London, said there was no longer a stigma in dramatically changing their appearance, with young people viewing physical changes as a “status symbol” tantamount to wearing a designer label. “Generally, anybody under 30 has basically lost the plot,” Prager, 54, said. “They haven’t spent enough time in the playground and they grew up with thumbs in a crooked position in front of a screen and now that’s their life.”

Dr Tamara Griffiths, of the British Association of Dermatologists, said there has been “real concern” about the growing numbers of children and teenagers getting Botox-style and dermal filler injections.Last year these cosmetic treatments became illegal for under-18s and this year the government announced a national licensing scheme. But the Labour MP Carolyn Harris, co-chair of the APPG, said the government needed to do more to improve the industry and protect young people, and that they are still waiting for regulations to be brought forward.

The Department of Health and Social Care said an amendment to the Health and Care Act 2022 would give the government powers to bring a national licensing scheme for non-surgical cosmetic procedures into force in England. “This scheme will make it an offence for anyone in England to carry out specified non-surgical procedures without a licence,” a spokesperson said.

Social media and celebrities, particularly the Kardashians, have played a key role in changing attitudes to cosmetic alterations from being a secret to hide to an openly proud choice.On the TV show Love Island, “tweakments” such as Botox and fillers are popular among its 20-something contestants. cap1

Kylie Jenner, 25, has talked about using lip fillers; Kim Kardashian, 42, has spoken about using Botox and laser treatments; in 2016, Khloé Kardashian, 38, said plastic surgery should be viewed like makeup. The three sisters have almost 100m Instagram followers between them.Supermodel Bella Hadid, 26, who has more than 56m Instagram followers, said she had a nose job at 14. The actor Olivia Colman, 48, has said she loved the effects of Botox.

It’s also gaining traction among men. Former Disney star and singer Joe Jonas, 33, recently appeared in an advert for Botox rival Xeomin.Young people are, Prager claimed, “being overly injected and proud of it”. While many of the practitioners doing the treatments have “injected themselves to a point where in the old world they would have been considered nuts”.

A rise in body dysmorphia disorder (BDD), among practitioners and patients, was fuelling the trend, he said. Such was the transformation that some practitioners had become unrecognisable. “I’ve known some of these people for 20 years,” he said.Dr Darren McKeown, a British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) board member who has studied the psychological outcomes of cosmetic interventions, said BDD was “relatively common” among such patients. He said it could be present in up to 10% of those seeking treatment, with up to 80% of BDD patients dissatisfied with the outcome.

So far this year, 8% of BCAM member patients were aged 18 to 24, with the majority aged between 35 and 60. They performed 282,960 filler procedures last year – a 100% rise on the previous 12 months. The increased number of cosmetic treatments among young people are largely taking place in unregulated beauty salons by unqualified practitioners, said McKeown, who is concerned about the “prolific use of dermal fillers” in this group.

“A lot of people would like to have their own screen filter version to actually resemble what they see in the mirror,” said Prager, who has appeared on the TV show 10 Years Younger. “I think that’s what they’re after.”Ekin-Su Culculoglu was a winner of ITV’s Love Island show this year on which ‘tweakments’ were popular with contestants.

While the trend was “neither condemnable nor applaudable”, he said, the gulf between self-perception and reality was widening. “What they perceive of themselves no longer resembles what we look at.”

While momentum for more overt cosmetic alterations has been building for some time, lockdown had a huge effect, encouraging comparisons with others during unflattering Zoom calls and affecting people’s mental health. “I now see visibly enhanced modified people on television, that it’s no longer a stigma. It’s actually a fashion trend, like tattoos.”

In the past, he said, the dominant desired aesthetic for those seeking cosmetic alterations was to “look halfway normal”. But now, he added: “It’s almost a status symbol to show that work has been done. There is no longer the need to hide it, in actual fact it’s more of a designer label.”

It was particularly popular with younger patients, he said, who had been “thrown off the rails” by Covid lockdowns.Younger people on a budget could be vulnerable to badly done fillers, he said, and driven to use backstreet practitioners. “Yes, they’re being pushed into something, but what are you going to do? Tell them ‘no don’t do it’?”

Recalling the “Paris lip” of the late 90s and the “Jessica Rabbit” look of the 2000s, he said the move towards radical transformation was not something that should be changed by stricter regulation. “Change is to come in many different ways, but it’s ultimately inside your head.”he singer Joe Jonas recently appeared in an advert for Botox rival Xeomin as such treatments gain mainstream traction with men. Photograph: Jordan Strauss/Invision

The sector had changed so much that he no longer wanted to be associated with it. “The cosmetic industry, it’s gone beyond.”

Prager said he was not bothered by people’s personal choices, but irritated by how trends changed the way his profession was viewed, making it “very difficult to be taken seriously as a cosmetic medical practitioner”.

He would “still hold a candle for Botox”, he said. “Overall, it’s a fantastic medical useful treatment. The same applies to fillers. It has a huge amount of benefits.”

But, Prager warned, administration is key. “You have to be careful who sits at the other end of the needle.”

– The guardian

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Life style

Aslam Hussein’s Couture and Trousseau

Published

10 hours ago

2025/12/21

Thilina Walpola

At Colombo Fashion Week,held recently at Cinnamon Grand,designer Aslam Hussein delivered a collection that spoke the language of quiet confidence and refined glamour, positioning him firmly as a Fashion Edit, favourite this season.

‘His collection unfolded like a carefully composed symphony – each piece moving with a rhythm of elegance and poise. Aslam Hussein’s runaway was more than a presentation – it was a story of refined luxury, individuality and timeless beauty where couture met emotion and each garment became a living expression of artistry.

Colombo Fashion Week was held this November at Cinnamon Grand ,namely Couture + Trousseau . The event was part of the luxury edit focused on high fashion,bridal wear and destination wedding,celebrating CFW’’s 22 rd anniversary Aslam Hussein opened the runway and his collection balanced sharp tailoring with fluid silhouettes, creating looks that felt both modern and enduring. Clean lines, thoughtful construction and an understated palette allowed craftsmanship to take centre stage. The colour palette was muted yet rich, allowing texture and craftsmanship to speak. Luxurious fabrics caught the light with every step, revealing subtle interplay between movement and form. Each silhouette told a story of – timeless, modern and effortless elegance

Aslam Hussein redefines elegance at CFW

Fluid silhouettes, muted palettes and clean tailoring defined his collection.

On the ramp,models moved with understated confidence, their hairstyles were created by. Ramani Fernando salons,the soft luminous makeup complemented the collection’s quiet sophistication. Each silhouette reflected Aslam’s commitment to craftsmanship, versatility and timeless style. Since establishing his label, he has been a staple on Sri Lanka’s fashion calendar, consistently presenting at Colombo Fashion Weeks and earning recognition for his designs.

His collection this year re-affirmed his mastery of understated elegance and contemporary luxury. Neutral tones were punctioned with occasion, deep shades, allowing fabric, cut and texture to take centre stage. Models carried the collection with measured poise. Make up was luminous yet natural, letting the silhouettes and individual model presence shine. Through his designs, Aslam Huseein has cultivated a following among modern cosmopolitan clientele who appreciate understated glamour, versatility and the quiet power of elegance.

His contributions have solidified his reputation as a designer who bridges Sri Lanka’s rich fashion heritage with an international sensibility.

Colombo Fashion Week is Sri Lanka’s premier event, showcasing the country’s top designers alongside emerging talent and is one of the glamorous events in the fashion landscape. The visionary is Ajay Vir Singh, founder of Colombo Fashion Week, whose leadership continues to elevate Sri Lanka’s premier fashion platform to international level.

Life style

Hairstyle maestro: Niroshan at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia

Published

10 hours ago

2025/12/21

Thilina Walpola

Ramani Fernando salons is a name that has taken men and women’s grooming to new heights since its inception at Mount Lavinia. The salon has made its mark on the locals and celebrities alike. Over the years, Ramani Fernando Salons has not just set a benchmark for luxury grooming services but has also redefined how men perceive self-care, hair styling, and professional grooming. This salon at Mount Lavinia under its Manager Kappitiya Godage, namely Niroshan known by clients has become a favourite destination for those who sought more than just a haircut. The salon introduces a range of services—from precision styling and beard grooming to men’s makeup for photoshoots. The manager at Mount Lavinia is Niroshan Suresh. His philosophy emphasized that grooming is not just about appearance but also about confidence and self-expression and most importantly – self-care. He says make-up and grooming are not just limited to the opposite gender!

What makes Ramani Fernando Salon at Mount stand out. It is its innovative style and technique to men and women’s grooming. This branch prides itself on using cutting-edge tools and premium products that ensure every client leaves with a polished, customized look. The salon focus is on continuous learning and staying ahead of trends has earned it the loyalty of a discerning clientele.

Working at Ramani salons, Niroshan has spent many years perfecting the craft of styling, cutting and grooming men’s and woman’s hair, blending technical skill with a keen understanding of contemporary fashion trends. With years of experience, he guides clients on hairstyles and on the selection and proper use of styling products. His presence at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia reinforce the brand’s reputation for excellence but also highlights the vital role of a skilled male stylist in shaping men and women’s grooming culture in Sri Lanka.

In the evolving world of men’s grooming, where style isn’t just about guiding a haircut but crafting a confident identity Niroshan at Mount Lavinia represent more than just a stylist or a place to cut hair. With Niroshan at the helm, this salon has become a place where style, innovation and meticulous grooming are curated for any client who walks in.

He is part of Ramani Fernando salons creative team, and brings creativity and precision to every look reflecting the high standards of Ramani Fernando’s renowned beauty collection

Niroshan has been with Ramani Fernando for several years and he is popular among his clients for those seeking sharp, modern and personalised hairstyles. With many years of experience, he has combined technical expertise with an eye for current trends ensuring each client leaves the salon looking confident and polished, Niroshan begins with a consultation, he carefully considers face shape, hair texture and personal style before recommending a look: He tailors each style to suit individual preferences, while ensuring easy to maintenance.

Beyond haircuts and grooming, his services include beard shaping, scalp and hair treatments and guidance on styling products. He makes each client of his leave the salon not just with a haircut but walk with confidence. He enjoys seeing his clients happy and self-assured. His experience, professionalism and knowledge make him a standard stylist in Colombo’s competitive grooming scene. He is very grateful to his senior and dynamic hairdresser Kamal for his guidance and expertise and who has been instrumental in shaping his approach to styling and artistry

by Zanita Careem ✍️

Life style

The Kingsbury, Colombo, Welcomes Season of Splendour

Published

10 hours ago

2025/12/21

Thilina Walpola

Seasonal cheer wrapped in tradition and luxury

The Kingsbury, Colombo, welcomes the festive season with a spirit of warmth, elegance and celebration. This year’s Christmas and New Year offerings have been curated to bring guests together through moments of comfort, connection and shared joy across the hotel.

Harbour Court sets the tone for the season with its Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet, Christmas Day Brunch and Christmas Dinner on 24th and 25th December, followed by the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet on 31st December and the New Year’s Day Lunch and Dinner Buffets on 1st January. Kings Steakbar brings festive fine dining to Colombo with its Sunday Gourmet Carvery every Sunday in December, the Christmas Gourmet Carvery on 24th and 25th December, an á la carte Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day and a Seven-course Gourmet Dinner on New Year’s Eve.

Yue Chuan offers authentic Chinese cuisine with its signature Peking Duck Experience throughout December, daily Dim Sum and a special All You Can Eat menu on 24th, 25th and 31st December. At Tenk?, guests can enjoy elegant Japanese cuisine with the daily Teppanyaki Show, festive á la carte menus on 24th and 25th December and a New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu. Ocean highlights the best of coastal cuisine with festive á la carte menus on 24th, 25th and 31st December. Bringing Sri Lankan authenticity to the season, Tavern presents an Arrack Tasting Experience throughout December.

Festive cheer continues outdoors at Honey Beach Club with live music from 19th to 23rd December, poolside Festive party packages, and the signature New Year’s Eve celebration “Dancing Into 2026,” featuring Infinity and DJ E2. At Sky Lounge, guests can enjoy elevated festivities with Corporate Celebration packages, festive set menus, seasonal cocktails and the New Year’s Eve event “Party in the Sky,” featuring The Kingdom. Seas

For those celebrating at home, The Kingsbury offers Seasonal Roasts and festive hampers, available both ready-made and customisable, while Indulgence provides five-star delivery throughout the season. Families can also enjoy special offers, with children below six dining free and children aged six to ten receiving 50% off buffet dining. Seasonal cocktails, wine menus and bottle deals are available across all outlets.

This year, The Kingsbury, Colombo, invites guests to embrace the season with kindness, hope and cherished moments. Whether dining out, gathering with loved ones or gifting thoughtfully, we are honoured to share a season of splendour with you.