The court of public opinion seems to be at a standstill when it comes to cosmetic treatments. We’re bombarded by perfect, filtered faces hawking their favorite collagen smoothie or cellulite-busting scrub. Celebrities who’ve been worked on by some of the best doctors in the world fill our social scrolls selling us creams and patches that are “better than botox” to help us “age gracefully.” What does that term even mean?! Are creams more graceful than injections and lifts? Are we supposed to get cosmetic treatments but not look like we got them? Is one safer than another? Ilana Brit Mechoullam offers her expert opinion on cosmetic procedures and the stigmas that surround them.

It’s time to acknowledge that aging naturally and cosmetic procedures aren’t mutually exclusive. If interested, there are many restorative treatments that can help preserve or reverse the aging process without being invasive or involving toxins. Natural and strategic replenishment of lost collagen is a beautiful way to delay signs of aging without undergoing surgery. Hyaluronic acid dermal filler, which is essentially sugar and water, is a nonsurgical way to add volume to the skin and fill out wrinkles. The key is that all things are done in moderation.

It’s also not true that all cosmetic procedures look unnatural. Not every chef can create the same meal with the same ingredients. The people you see who don’t look natural were likely not injected in an artful way, or simply chose a look that was pleasing to them but may not be to you. And let’s remember to celebrate individual choices. There’s absolutely no shame in getting cosmetic work done. The way we look outside affects the way we feel about ourselves inside. Growing up I was bullied for the way my nose looked, so I’ve experienced firsthand how transformative altering your appearance can be. When you have confidence, it flows into other areas of your life.

It bears repeating: Moderation is the key to natural cosmetic enhancements. It can be a slippery slope, and I’ve seen clients who became addicted to the feeling of looking good and the confidence that they have after a procedure — but changes in appearance only go so far. Confidence needs to come from the inside as well. If the way you look is the only thing that makes you feel good about yourself, no amount of cosmetic treatments will ever be enough.

A reputable medical spa should first and foremost educate patients on what treatments are available, the realistic outcomes, and the rare but potential side effects. It should aim to create comfortable environments where patients feel they can ask questions, ask for what they want or need, and always feel heard while receiving honest feedback. Too many of these facilities are clinical and cold, leaving patients feeling intimidated, which can lead to choices being made that they later regret. If you’re considering a cosmetic procedure but don’t know where to start, ask for advice, read reviews, and visit several places. Speak to the doctors or nurses who you’ll be working with. If anyone makes you feel pressured or uncomfortable, you have every right to walk away and find someone who makes you feel completely at ease before you make any decisions.