SUNDAY SPECIAL: Are Injectables Making You Look Older?

Dec 13, 2025

Dr. Cara McDonald, a Consultant Dermatologist and specialist cosmetic injector, reveals the fine line between preventative injectables and aging. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining facial movement and ranks popular skincare ingredients like retinoids and hyaluronic acid for their anti-aging benefits. The risks of cosmetic tourism and finding the right practitioner are discussed, along with the bra-in-bed myth. Cara breaks down how genetics and sun exposure shape our skin, while stressing that skilled operators and moderation are key to effective cosmetic procedures.

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ADVICE

Bra In Bed: Comfort Over Myth

Do what feels comfortable about wearing a bra to bed; no strong evidence it prevents sagging or causes cancer.
Avoid tight underwires if they irritate or trap heat, which can cause skin problems.

ADVICE

Vet Qualifications And Follow-Up Before Surgery

Research practitioners thoroughly and prioritise qualified plastic surgeons for major cosmetic operations.
Ask about follow-up care and avoid providers with vague post-op plans or unclear credentials.

ADVICE

Think Twice About Cosmetic Tourism

Avoid cosmetic tourism for complex procedures because complications often require costly local corrective care.
Realise recovery isn't a beach holiday: swelling and downtime usually rule out poolside cocktails.

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When do ‘preventative’ injections cross the line and start making you look older? Can wearing a bra to bed really prevent sagging? And do you need to see a gynaecologist if you've never had sex?

In this episode, we speak to Consultant Dermatologist and Specialist Cosmetic Injector, Dr Cara McDonald to get the truth about anti-ageing, skincare ingredients and cosmetic procedures. She gives her expert rating (out of 10) for the most popular skincare ingredients - from your hyaluronic acids to your retinoids - and if they’re really that great in the fight against ageing.

We cover everything from why the operator is more important than the device, the dangers of over-filling and when removing all movement from your face can actually backfire…

Dr Mariam breaks down the serious risks of ‘cosmetic tourism’, the differences between a ‘Plastic Surgeon’ and ‘cosmetic surgeon’ and how to identify a properly credentialed practitioner.

Plus, we settle the "to bra in bed or not to bra in bed" debate, and whether it has any proven impact on sagging.

And, in our quick consult, Dr Mariam answers a listener’s question about whether you still need to see that doctor if you've never done the deed.

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CREDITS

Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam

Guest: Dr Cara McDonald

Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best

Audio Producer: Scott Stronach

Video Producer: Julian Rosario

Social Producer: Elly Moore

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.

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