“My motto is that every face is a unique piece of artwork. My aim is to bring out the best in each individual patient, not to change them.”
Dr Sophie Shotter
Find Out More..Dr Sophie Shotter
MBChB BSc (Hons) MBCAMea
Dr Sophie Shotter is an award-winning aesthetic doctor, with over a decade of medical experience. She graduated from Leeds University with an MBChB and BSc Hons in Genetics in Relation to Medicine and has since become one of the UK’s ‘rising star’ aesthetic doctors. Dr Sophie was awarded Medical Practitioner of the Year 2023 at the prestigious Aesthetics Awards.
Illuminate Skin Clinic
Dr Sophie has a special interest in holistic approaches to anti-ageing and wellness and has also adopted a new approach devoted to helping patients reclaim their health through aesthetic treatments and hormone optimisation. Her aim is to help you feel and look the very best version of yourself.
Working from her own multi-award-winning medical aesthetic clinic in Kent and 10 Harley Street, London, Dr Sophie is also a well-respected aesthetics trainer and a regular expert speaker and host at industry events and conferences. She is a key opinion leader for leading aesthetic brands and a regular media contributor on aesthetic treatments and industry developments.
Working from her own multi-award-winning medical aesthetic clinic in Kent and 10 Harley Street, London, Dr Sophie is also a well-respected aesthetics trainer and a regular expert speaker and host at industry events and conferences. She is a key opinion leader for leading aesthetic brands and a regular media contributor on aesthetic treatments and industry developments.
Accolades & Awards
About Dr Sophie
Dr Sophie is one of a new breed of highly successful aesthetic practitioners who come from a medical background.
Clinics
Dr Sophie Shotter founded Illuminate Skin Clinics in 2014. Situated in Kings Hill, Kent, this award-winning, private clinic was set up
Press & Media
Dr Sophie is a regular contributor for press and media, providing comment on treatments and industry developments, reviewing products and featuring in case studies
Videos
In these videos Dr Sophie gives advice and answers common questions on treatments and other topics.
Brands Dr Sophie uses...
Latest news...
Read more articlesGet social with Dr Sophie
Each and every person who comes to me is one-of-a-kind, with their own distinct skin and objectives. When you visit me, I take the time to understand your skin and health concerns to discover a customised solution tailored to your unique needs. This might include skincare products, aesthetic treatments, hormone therapy, or a blend of these options.
Curious to learn more or have questions about what treatments might suit you? Don`t hesitate to reach out. I`m here to guide, support, and get you on the right path to achieve your goals. Tap the link in my bio to book a consultation if you`d like to discuss the possibilities 💌
Each and every person who comes to me is one-of-a-kind, with their own distinct skin and objectives. When you visit me, I take the time to understand your skin and health concerns to discover a customised solution tailored to your unique needs. This might include skincare products, aesthetic treatments, hormone therapy, or a blend of these options.
Curious to learn more or have questions about what treatments might suit you? Don`t hesitate to reach out. I`m here to guide, support, and get you on the right path to achieve your goals. Tap the link in my bio to book a consultation if you`d like to discuss the possibilities 💌
Marionette lines are caused by various factors. The most significant being the fact that your face loses fat with age.
The fat underlying your skin helps to plump it up and keep your skin taut. As your face loses this fat, the skin has less support, which contributes to its sagging.
The face also loses bone which causes your skull to lose volume gradually. In your face, the effect of this bone loss is a gradual loss of support for the fat and skin.
Finally, as your skin ages, it loses its elasticity, so it stretches, and sags and lines and wrinkles become more apparent.
So, if marionette lines are your concern, what can you do to treat and prevent them? Watch the video to hear my thoughts 👆🏽
Are marionette lines a concern of yours?
Marionette lines are caused by various factors. The most significant being the fact that your face loses fat with age.
The fat underlying your skin helps to plump it up and keep your skin taut. As your face loses this fat, the skin has less support, which contributes to its sagging.
The face also loses bone which causes your skull to lose volume gradually. In your face, the effect of this bone loss is a gradual loss of support for the fat and skin.
Finally, as your skin ages, it loses its elasticity, so it stretches, and sags and lines and wrinkles become more apparent.
So, if marionette lines are your concern, what can you do to treat and prevent them? Watch the video to hear my thoughts 👆🏽
Are marionette lines a concern of yours?
Do you agree with this? ⤵️
We all know ageing is a natural part of life, but accepting it is a whole other thing. The truth is, women suffer an impossible paradox — embrace your age, but stay beautiful in the eyes of society.
While a single grey hair can spark an existential crisis for a woman, it`s often seen as a sexy mark of distinction in men.
So, how can we change the narrative?
Firstly, I think we need to change the way we speak about ageing. We may be surprised how small changes in the way we discuss taboo topics can make a big difference in the way we perceive them.
And, on a more positive note, one thing I have noticed over the years is that the longer you spend in your skin, the more comfortable you are in it.
I find that when women hit their mid-50s, they’re more accepting of their skin. They may say, “Yes, I am getting older, but I just want to support my skin, and give it what it needs so that I look and feel like the best version of me.”
They don’t necessarily want to look younger; they just want to look great. You’re more accepting and kinder to yourself at this age.
What do you think about this? Do you agree that the social standards of ageing between men and women are changing? Let me know in the comments below 👇🏼
Do you agree with this? ⤵️
We all know ageing is a natural part of life, but accepting it is a whole other thing. The truth is, women suffer an impossible paradox — embrace your age, but stay beautiful in the eyes of society.
While a single grey hair can spark an existential crisis for a woman, it`s often seen as a sexy mark of distinction in men.
So, how can we change the narrative?
Firstly, I think we need to change the way we speak about ageing. We may be surprised how small changes in the way we discuss taboo topics can make a big difference in the way we perceive them.
And, on a more positive note, one thing I have noticed over the years is that the longer you spend in your skin, the more comfortable you are in it.
I find that when women hit their mid-50s, they’re more accepting of their skin. They may say, “Yes, I am getting older, but I just want to support my skin, and give it what it needs so that I look and feel like the best version of me.”
They don’t necessarily want to look younger; they just want to look great. You’re more accepting and kinder to yourself at this age.
What do you think about this? Do you agree that the social standards of ageing between men and women are changing? Let me know in the comments below 👇🏼
This week on the podcast, I’m running through my ultimate Christmas gift guide– from candles, bath oils, and skincare (of course!) through to day spas, beauty tech, wellness gadgets, make-up, gym stuff – basically the kind of things I love to both give and receive.
Have a listen and you can perhaps then drop a few hints for what someone special might hope to buy you this holiday season – and of course I’d love your recommendations as well.
Think of this as my `favourite things` episode.
Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter is available on Apple podcasts and Spotify (links in bio).
As ever, thank you for listening!
#womenshealthmatters #over50women #over40women #womenover50rock #midlifewoman #midlifebeauty #menopausehelp #menopausematters #perimenopausehealth #menopausesymptoms #ukmums #ukbeautyblogger #londonbeauty #londonmums #skincarecommunity #perimenopause #giftideas #giftguide #ukbeautyblogger
This week on the podcast, I’m running through my ultimate Christmas gift guide– from candles, bath oils, and skincare (of course!) through to day spas, beauty tech, wellness gadgets, make-up, gym stuff – basically the kind of things I love to both give and receive.
Have a listen and you can perhaps then drop a few hints for what someone special might hope to buy you this holiday season – and of course I’d love your recommendations as well.
Think of this as my `favourite things` episode.
Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter is available on Apple podcasts and Spotify (links in bio).
As ever, thank you for listening!
#womenshealthmatters #over50women #over40women #womenover50rock #midlifewoman #midlifebeauty #menopausehelp #menopausematters #perimenopausehealth #menopausesymptoms #ukmums #ukbeautyblogger #londonbeauty #londonmums #skincarecommunity #perimenopause #giftideas #giftguide #ukbeautyblogger
Curious about how HArmonyCa and Profhilo Structura compare? Let’s break it down ⬇️
Both of these treatments are designed to improve skin quality and structure, but they work in slightly different ways and are suited to different needs.
HArmonyCa is a hybrid injectable that combines hyaluronic acid (for immediate hydration and plumpness) with calcium hydroxyapatite, which stimulates collagen production over time. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a treatment that gives both instant volume and a longer-term skin-tightening effect. Think of it as a two-in-one solution for sculpting and rejuvenating.
Profhilo Structura, on the other hand, is part of the Profhilo family but offers more structure and lift. It works to target a deeper layer of the face to address age-related changes in the subcutaneous fat. This is a unique indication, setting it apart as the first product with a proven ability to regenerate fat while offering visible rejuvenation of the overlying skin.
The key is choosing someone who understands the nuances of these products and how to use them to complement your natural beauty without overdoing it.
Head to the link in my bio to book a consultation where we chat the options through and establish a treatment plan together that’s right for you 💬
Curious about how HArmonyCa and Profhilo Structura compare? Let’s break it down ⬇️
Both of these treatments are designed to improve skin quality and structure, but they work in slightly different ways and are suited to different needs.
HArmonyCa is a hybrid injectable that combines hyaluronic acid (for immediate hydration and plumpness) with calcium hydroxyapatite, which stimulates collagen production over time. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a treatment that gives both instant volume and a longer-term skin-tightening effect. Think of it as a two-in-one solution for sculpting and rejuvenating.
Profhilo Structura, on the other hand, is part of the Profhilo family but offers more structure and lift. It works to target a deeper layer of the face to address age-related changes in the subcutaneous fat. This is a unique indication, setting it apart as the first product with a proven ability to regenerate fat while offering visible rejuvenation of the overlying skin.
The key is choosing someone who understands the nuances of these products and how to use them to complement your natural beauty without overdoing it.
Head to the link in my bio to book a consultation where we chat the options through and establish a treatment plan together that’s right for you 💬
Do you know how to tell the difference between a harmless spot and something more concerning? It’s not always easy – but it’s so important. Skin cancer can appear in many different forms, and sometimes it might look as innocent as a simple pimple or blemish. That’s why knowing the warning signs can make all the difference when it comes to early detection and treatment.
Here’s what to keep an eye on 👇
🔍 A spot that doesn’t heal: If you’ve noticed a pimple, sore, or scab that lingers for weeks or keeps coming back, it’s worth getting it checked. Normal spots heal within a week or two – anything longer could be a sign of something more serious.
🔍 Changes in size, shape, or colour: If a mole, spot, or mark on your skin starts to grow, change shape, or darken, it could be a red flag. Look out for irregular edges or uneven colouring too.
🔍 Itching, bleeding, or crusting: Skin cancers often cause symptoms like persistent itching, bleeding, or crusty patches that don’t seem to go away, even after treating them.
🔍 A shiny, pearly bump or patch: Skin cancer doesn’t always look scary – it can show up as a smooth, shiny, or waxy bump, often mistaken for a harmless spot or pimple.
🔍 A new growth: If you notice a new spot, lump, or patch of skin that wasn’t there before and seems unusual, it’s always best to have it checked by a professional.
Remember, not all changes mean skin cancer – but it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If in doubt, get it checked out by a dermatologist or GP. Early detection saves lives, so don’t ignore something that doesn’t feel quite right.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it’s worth looking after. Regular self-checks and professional skin checks can help catch anything concerning before it becomes serious. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out if something doesn’t look or feel normal 💛
Do you know how to tell the difference between a harmless spot and something more concerning? It’s not always easy – but it’s so important. Skin cancer can appear in many different forms, and sometimes it might look as innocent as a simple pimple or blemish. That’s why knowing the warning signs can make all the difference when it comes to early detection and treatment.
Here’s what to keep an eye on 👇
🔍 A spot that doesn’t heal: If you’ve noticed a pimple, sore, or scab that lingers for weeks or keeps coming back, it’s worth getting it checked. Normal spots heal within a week or two – anything longer could be a sign of something more serious.
🔍 Changes in size, shape, or colour: If a mole, spot, or mark on your skin starts to grow, change shape, or darken, it could be a red flag. Look out for irregular edges or uneven colouring too.
🔍 Itching, bleeding, or crusting: Skin cancers often cause symptoms like persistent itching, bleeding, or crusty patches that don’t seem to go away, even after treating them.
🔍 A shiny, pearly bump or patch: Skin cancer doesn’t always look scary – it can show up as a smooth, shiny, or waxy bump, often mistaken for a harmless spot or pimple.
🔍 A new growth: If you notice a new spot, lump, or patch of skin that wasn’t there before and seems unusual, it’s always best to have it checked by a professional.
Remember, not all changes mean skin cancer – but it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If in doubt, get it checked out by a dermatologist or GP. Early detection saves lives, so don’t ignore something that doesn’t feel quite right.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it’s worth looking after. Regular self-checks and professional skin checks can help catch anything concerning before it becomes serious. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out if something doesn’t look or feel normal 💛
While aesthetic procedures can offer subtle, effective improvements, they are not without risks. Many individuals, eager for a refreshed appearance, often make critical mistakes that can negatively impact their results and overall experience.
Understanding these common pitfalls is essential for achieving safe, satisfying results and ensuring a positive experience.
Here, I explore the three biggest mistakes people make when opting for tweakments and how to avoid them 👉🏼
While aesthetic procedures can offer subtle, effective improvements, they are not without risks. Many individuals, eager for a refreshed appearance, often make critical mistakes that can negatively impact their results and overall experience.
Understanding these common pitfalls is essential for achieving safe, satisfying results and ensuring a positive experience.
Here, I explore the three biggest mistakes people make when opting for tweakments and how to avoid them 👉🏼
Does it feel like your eyes are sending the wrong message? As we age, the delicate skin around our upper eyelids can start to look lax, crepey, or even more hooded, giving the appearance of tiredness or adding years to our face.
If this sounds all too familiar, there’s good news – you don’t have to settle for it.
This is where Sofwave comes in - the non-invasive treatment that’s creating a buzz for its remarkable ability to rejuvenate the upper eyelids.
Using advanced ultrasound technology, Sofwave works to tighten and lift the skin, stimulating collagen production from within. The result? Firmer, smoother eyelids that bring back that youthful, wide-awake look you’ve been missing.
What’s more, the treatment is quick, with no downtime – perfect for fitting into even the busiest of schedules. Whether your concern is mild hooding or a more noticeable change, Sofwave can help you regain confidence and achieve a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.
Does it feel like your eyes are sending the wrong message? As we age, the delicate skin around our upper eyelids can start to look lax, crepey, or even more hooded, giving the appearance of tiredness or adding years to our face.
If this sounds all too familiar, there’s good news – you don’t have to settle for it.
This is where Sofwave comes in - the non-invasive treatment that’s creating a buzz for its remarkable ability to rejuvenate the upper eyelids.
Using advanced ultrasound technology, Sofwave works to tighten and lift the skin, stimulating collagen production from within. The result? Firmer, smoother eyelids that bring back that youthful, wide-awake look you’ve been missing.
What’s more, the treatment is quick, with no downtime – perfect for fitting into even the busiest of schedules. Whether your concern is mild hooding or a more noticeable change, Sofwave can help you regain confidence and achieve a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.
Many people believe that the key to feeling their best is to turn back time and erase every sign of ageing.
But here’s the truth—looking your best doesn’t necessarily mean chasing youth. Aesthetic treatments are not just about reducing years from your appearance but rather about helping your appear fresher, enhancing your natural features, boosting your confidence, and feeling radiant at every age.
As more people embrace the idea that beauty transcends age, the focus has shifted from trying to look younger to looking refreshed and vibrant, while still celebrating the natural ageing process. Subtle, thoughtful aesthetic enhancements can bring out the best in your skin and features, helping you feel confident without needing to erase every wrinkle or line.
Do you agree with this?
Many people believe that the key to feeling their best is to turn back time and erase every sign of ageing.
But here’s the truth—looking your best doesn’t necessarily mean chasing youth. Aesthetic treatments are not just about reducing years from your appearance but rather about helping your appear fresher, enhancing your natural features, boosting your confidence, and feeling radiant at every age.
As more people embrace the idea that beauty transcends age, the focus has shifted from trying to look younger to looking refreshed and vibrant, while still celebrating the natural ageing process. Subtle, thoughtful aesthetic enhancements can bring out the best in your skin and features, helping you feel confident without needing to erase every wrinkle or line.
Do you agree with this?
Noticed small white bumps around your eyes that just don’t seem to go away?
If you’ve spotted tiny white bumps around your eyes, chances are they could be milia—small, harmless cysts caused by trapped keratin. Milia are super common and usually straightforward to treat with the right skincare or gentle professional treatments.
But here’s the thing: not all white bumps are milia. Sometimes, they’re syringomas—a more stubborn condition caused by overactive sweat glands. Unlike milia, syringomas can be tricky to manage and might need more specialised treatments, like laser or advanced dermatology options.
So, how can you tell the difference? The key is a proper diagnosis. Treating syringomas like milia won’t work, and vice versa. If you’re dealing with these bumps and not sure where to start, a consultation is your best first step.
Do you have any questions about this? Let me know in the comments below 👇🏼
Noticed small white bumps around your eyes that just don’t seem to go away?
If you’ve spotted tiny white bumps around your eyes, chances are they could be milia—small, harmless cysts caused by trapped keratin. Milia are super common and usually straightforward to treat with the right skincare or gentle professional treatments.
But here’s the thing: not all white bumps are milia. Sometimes, they’re syringomas—a more stubborn condition caused by overactive sweat glands. Unlike milia, syringomas can be tricky to manage and might need more specialised treatments, like laser or advanced dermatology options.
So, how can you tell the difference? The key is a proper diagnosis. Treating syringomas like milia won’t work, and vice versa. If you’re dealing with these bumps and not sure where to start, a consultation is your best first step.
Do you have any questions about this? Let me know in the comments below 👇🏼
It`s the last of our mini guest season for the podcast and honestly no exaggeration but this week’s episode could well change someone’s life, and I suspect will change many people’s minds.
I had the absolute pleasure of talking to Professor David Nutt about medicinal cannabis.
Did you know UK law has changed?
For anyone with anxiety, epilepsy, or MS, this episode will be an especially powerful listen.
We discuss:
• Cannabis and multiple sclerosis
• Cannabis and cancer
• CBD oil
• Getting a UK prescription
And lots more - including some very moving stories.
Here in the UK, David is leading the way in the science as well as enabling access to medicinal cannabis.
Please note that here in the UK, cannabis is illegal for recreational use and is classified as a Class B drug.
Please also note that I’m not endorsing recreational drug use – and people should chat to their GP for guidance on any disease or disorder.
With all that in mind, please listen to this episode with an open mind – and share it with anyone who you think may benefit from its content.
Oh, and a quick hello to @jossstone who we mention – and who has an interesting story to tell...
Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter is available on Apple podcasts and Spotify (links in bio).
#CBDoil #womenswellness #womenshealthmatters #over50women #over40women #womenover50rock #midlifewoman #midlifebeauty #menopausehelp #menopausematters #perimenopausehealth #menopausesymptoms #ukmums #ukbeautyblogger #londonbeauty #londonmums #skincarecommunity #perimenopause
It`s the last of our mini guest season for the podcast and honestly no exaggeration but this week’s episode could well change someone’s life, and I suspect will change many people’s minds.
I had the absolute pleasure of talking to Professor David Nutt about medicinal cannabis.
Did you know UK law has changed?
For anyone with anxiety, epilepsy, or MS, this episode will be an especially powerful listen.
We discuss:
• Cannabis and multiple sclerosis
• Cannabis and cancer
• CBD oil
• Getting a UK prescription
And lots more - including some very moving stories.
Here in the UK, David is leading the way in the science as well as enabling access to medicinal cannabis.
Please note that here in the UK, cannabis is illegal for recreational use and is classified as a Class B drug.
Please also note that I’m not endorsing recreational drug use – and people should chat to their GP for guidance on any disease or disorder.
With all that in mind, please listen to this episode with an open mind – and share it with anyone who you think may benefit from its content.
Oh, and a quick hello to @jossstone who we mention – and who has an interesting story to tell...
Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter is available on Apple podcasts and Spotify (links in bio).
#CBDoil #womenswellness #womenshealthmatters #over50women #over40women #womenover50rock #midlifewoman #midlifebeauty #menopausehelp #menopausematters #perimenopausehealth #menopausesymptoms #ukmums #ukbeautyblogger #londonbeauty #londonmums #skincarecommunity #perimenopause
My November Ask Me Anything Live. We’ve talked muscle relaxing, fillers, filler brands, bio stimulators, malar oedema, skin routines, hair supplements, DNA repair enzymes, exciting new skincare lines and treatments and SO much more. Thank you for all the questions ❤️ @clinicalskinuk @alastinskincare_uk @muradskincareuk @revisionskincareuk @neovasmartskincare @sofwave.uk @profhilo.uk.ireland and I’m sure I’ve missed a few off!!
My November Ask Me Anything Live. We’ve talked muscle relaxing, fillers, filler brands, bio stimulators, malar oedema, skin routines, hair supplements, DNA repair enzymes, exciting new skincare lines and treatments and SO much more. Thank you for all the questions ❤️ @clinicalskinuk @alastinskincare_uk @muradskincareuk @revisionskincareuk @neovasmartskincare @sofwave.uk @profhilo.uk.ireland and I’m sure I’ve missed a few off!!
