Aesthetics Uncovered: Your Questions Answered by Clare McSweeney
Our resident aesthetics expert Clare McSweeney—widely regarded as the queen of Essex with a client list that reads like a who’s who of the celebrity world—returns to 2Shades to answer your most pressing beauty and treatment dilemmas. From sweat patches to thinning lips and mystery pricing, nothing is off limits.
Dear Clare,
Does the queen of aesthetics ever have treatments herself, or is it all natural?
Answer:
Absolutely—I always say you should practise what you preach. I’m very subtle with my own treatments; it’s all about looking fresh, not frozen. A tweak here and there—skin boosters, a little anti-wrinkle treatment, and good skincare—go a long way. The aim is for people to notice you look well, not to notice what you’ve had done.
Dear Clare,
Summer is coming and I’m constantly getting sweat patches under my arms, especially when I’m nervous. What can I do to stay dry and confident?
Paul in Coventry
Answer:
This is incredibly common, particularly with men. The most effective solution is underarm Botox, which temporarily blocks the nerves that trigger sweating. Results can last up to six months and it’s a real confidence booster. Alongside that, wear breathable fabrics, use a clinical-strength antiperspirant at night, and try to avoid caffeine before stressful events. But for a long-term fix, Botox is the gold standard.
Dear Clare,
My upper lip is thinning as I get older. Is lip filler my only option, or are there other ways to restore fullness?
Margaret, Basildon
Answer:
Lip filler is a great option, but it doesn’t have to be dramatic—a subtle amount can restore shape and hydration beautifully. Another alternative is a lip flip using Botox, which gently relaxes the upper lip to create the illusion of fullness. Hydrating treatments and good lip care also help. It’s all about enhancing your natural features rather than overdoing it.
Dear Clare,
I’m desperate for Botox but I have a terrible fear of needles. Is there any way around it?
Pam, Milton Keynes
Answer:
You’re not alone—needle phobia is very common. The needles used for Botox are extremely small, and most people describe the sensation as a quick pinch. Numbing cream can be used, and a good practitioner will take things slowly to keep you comfortable. There are alternatives such as medical-grade skincare, chemical peels, or laser treatments, but they won’t replicate Botox entirely. Sometimes it’s about building confidence—many people find their fear disappears after the first treatment.
Dear Clare,
My aesthetics practitioner never gives clear prices—it changes every time depending on “how much needs doing.” Should I be concerned?
Answer:
Transparency is key in this industry. While some treatments vary depending on the amount of product used, you should always be given a clear price or at least a price range before anything begins. Feeling unsure or surprised by the cost is a red flag. A reputable practitioner will always discuss pricing openly and ensure you’re comfortable before proceeding.
Dear Clare,
I’ve developed brown spots on my face and legs that just won’t go away. What can I do?
Maggie, London
Answer:
These sound like pigmentation or sun spots, which are very common. Treatments such as medical-grade skincare with retinol and vitamin C, chemical peels, and laser or IPL can help break down the pigment. The most important step, however, is daily SPF—without it, the pigmentation will continue to return. Prevention and consistency are key.
Dear Clare,
What is the one beauty tip you swear by and would never skip?
Answer:
SPF every single day, without fail. It’s the best anti-ageing product available and protects your skin from damage before it even begins. If you do one thing—make it that.
For those looking to experience Clare’s expertise first-hand, she can be found on social media and through her clinic—offering guidance, treatments, and a refreshingly honest approach to aesthetics.
https://www.instagram.com/clairemcsweeney1/
2Shades Magazine 