November in Orillia means the excitement of the party season is near, and it’s time to get ready in advance. From the Christmas Markets at the Orillia Farmers’ Market to New Year’s Eve celebrations, office holiday parties, and family gatherings, the next two months are filled with moments you’ll want to look and feel your best at. As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in medical aesthetics here in Orillia, I’ve spent years helping clients achieve that coveted holiday glow—and the secret isn’t last-minute prep. It’s strategic planning.
Whether you’re attending the Hotel California tribute show at the Orillia Opera House in December or preparing for your company’s annual celebration, this article will help you understand exactly when to book your aesthetic treatments for optimal results.
Why Timing Matters for Medical Aesthetic Treatments
Here’s what many people don’t realize: different aesthetic treatments have different timelines for both healing and results. Book too early, and your results may fade before your big event. Book too late, and you might still be dealing with redness or swelling when you need to shine.
As Orillia’s only Nurse Practitioner-led medical aesthetics clinic, I’ve developed treatment timelines based on years of clinical experience and the unique needs of my clients in Simcoe County. Let me walk you through exactly what to book—and when.
6-8 Weeks Before Your Event: Foundation Treatments
RF Microneedling (Lutronic Genius)
If you’re looking for comprehensive skin rejuvenation—improved texture, reduced fine lines, tightened skin, and minimized pores—RF microneedling is your powerhouse treatment. At Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, we use the Lutronic Genius, which combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production deep in the skin.
Why start now: Collagen remodelling takes time. You’ll see initial results within 2-3 weeks, but optimal results develop over 4-6 weeks as your skin naturally produces new collagen and elastin.
Ideal for: Addressing acne scarring, uneven skin texture, fine lines, and achieving an overall skin tightening effect before the holidays.
What to expect: Plan for 3-5 days of redness and mild swelling. Your skin may feel tight and slightly sensitive during the healing process.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are excellent for addressing sun damage accumulated over the summer (yes, even here in Ontario!), hyperpigmentation, dullness, and rough texture. We offer various depths of peels at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, and the recovery time varies accordingly.
Why start now: Medium-depth peels require 7-14 days for complete healing, while your skin continues to improve over the following weeks. Starting 6-8 weeks out ensures you’re glowing—not peeling—at your event.
Ideal for: Clients with sun damage, uneven skin tone, fine lines, or those wanting a dramatic refresh before the holidays.
What to expect: Peeling typically occurs days 3-7. You’ll need to be diligent with sun protection (even though it’s winter!) and moisturizing during recovery.
APTOS Thread Lifts
Thread lifts provide a subtle lift to sagging skin, particularly effective for the midface, jawline, and neck. This minimally invasive treatment creates immediate lift while stimulating collagen production over the following months.
Why start now: While you’ll see immediate lifting results, the collagen-building process continues for 2-3 months. Any minor swelling or bruising will have completely resolved, and you’ll look naturally refreshed—not “done.”
Ideal for: Clients noticing jowl formation, loss of definition in the jawline, or sagging in the midface area.
What to expect: Minor swelling and possible bruising for 5-7 days. You’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and facial massage for 2-3 weeks.
4-6 Weeks Before Your Event: Enhancement Treatments
First-Time Neuromodulator Treatments (Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®)
If you’re new to neuromodulators—commonly known as “wrinkle relaxers”—this timing is crucial. These treatments smooth dynamic wrinkles in areas like the forehead, between the brows (the “11” lines), and crow’s feet around the eyes.
Why start now: Neuromodulators take 10-14 days to fully activate and settle into your face. First-timers may need subtle adjustments at a two-week follow-up appointment to achieve the perfect result. Starting 4-6 weeks out gives us time to ensure you look naturally refreshed, not frozen.
Ideal for: Clients wanting to soften expression lines while maintaining natural movement and expressions.
What to expect: Minimal downtime. Possible minor bruising at injection sites. Results last 3-4 months, making this perfect timing for the holiday season through early spring.
Pro tip from my practice: If you’re a returning client and already know your ideal neuromodulator dosage, you can book 2-3 weeks before your event. But if it’s your first time, give us that extra cushion.
Dermal Fillers for Volume Restoration
Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers (like Teosyal® and Restylane®, which we use at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness) restore lost volume, enhance facial contours, and create beautiful, natural-looking results. Common treatment areas include cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, and jawline definition.
Why start now: While fillers provide immediate volume, minor swelling typically resolves within 5-7 days. More importantly, it takes about 2 weeks for the filler to fully integrate into your tissue and settle into its final position. If any adjustments are needed, we want time to make them.
Ideal for: Restoring facial volume loss, enhancing contours, and creating a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
What to expect: Immediate results with potential swelling and bruising for 3-7 days. Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (like Aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil) for one week before treatment to minimize bruising.
Deoxycholic Acid Injections (Double Chin Treatment)
Looking to refine your jawline profile before all those holiday photos? Deoxycholic acid injections dissolve submental fat (under the chin), creating a more defined jawline and neck contour.
Why start now: Fat cells are permanently destroyed and naturally eliminated by your body over 4-6 weeks. Most clients need 2-3 treatments spaced one month apart for optimal results, so starting now puts you on track.
Ideal for: Clients bothered by submental fullness (“double chin”) who want a more defined jawline profile.
What to expect: Swelling under the chin for 7-14 days (this is actually a good sign—it means the treatment is working!). Multiple treatments are typically needed for the best results.
2-3 Weeks Before Your Event: Refinement Treatments
Microneedling
Traditional microneedling (without RF) is a gentler option that still provides excellent results for skin texture improvement, fine lines, and overall skin rejuvenation. At Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, this treatment stimulates your skin’s natural healing response to produce fresh, healthy skin.
Why start now: Your skin will be pink for 24-48 hours, then continue improving over the following 2-3 weeks as collagen production ramps up.
Ideal for: Clients wanting skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime, or those building on results from previous treatments.
What to expect: Redness similar to a mild sunburn for 1-2 days. Skin may feel slightly tight and dry as it heals.
Cellenis® PRP Bio-Filler
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments use your body’s own healing factors to rejuvenate skin from within. We use the Cellenis® system at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, which provides natural-looking volume restoration and skin quality improvement, particularly effective for under-eye hollows, facial volume enhancement, and overall skin rejuvenation.
Why start now: PRP works gradually as your body responds to the growth factors. You’ll see initial improvements within 2-3 weeks, with continued improvement over 2-3 months.
Ideal for: Clients seeking natural enhancement, those with concerns about synthetic fillers, or anyone wanting to improve overall skin quality and texture.
What to expect: Mild swelling and possible bruising for 3-5 days. Because we’re using your own blood product, allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Medical Facials
Our medical-grade facials at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness are customized to your skin’s needs and go far beyond spa treatments. These clinical protocols use professional-strength active ingredients that simply aren’t available in retail products.
Why start now: Medical facials provide immediate glow and hydration while continuing to improve your skin over the following weeks.
Ideal for: All skin types, particularly beneficial for clients managing acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, or general skin health maintenance.
What to expect: Zero downtime. Your skin may be slightly pink immediately after treatment, but you’ll leave glowing and can apply makeup the same day.
1 Week Before Your Event: The Final Glow
Bela MD+ Advanced Facial Technology
The Bela MD+ is my go-to recommendation for that last-minute luminous glow. This cutting-edge treatment combines deep cleansing, exfoliation, and infusion of customized serums to leave your skin hydrated, bright, and camera-ready.
Why book now: Bela MD+ provides immediate results with absolutely no downtime. You’ll walk out of our clinic glowing and ready for your close-up.
Ideal for: Anyone wanting instant radiance before a major event. It’s like a reset button for your skin.
What to expect: No downtime whatsoever. In fact, many clients book their appointment the day before or even the morning of their event!
Cryotherapy for Skin Concerns
If you have any stubborn skin concerns like warts, skin tags, or other benign lesions that you’d like addressed before party season, medical cryotherapy uses controlled cold exposure to treat these concerns effectively.
Why consider this: Quick treatment with minimal downtime, allowing you to feel more confident in your skin.
What to expect: Treated areas may be slightly red or form a small scab, which typically resolves within 7-10 days.
For Maintenance Clients: Touch-Up Timeline
If you’re already maintaining regular aesthetic treatments, here’s your refresh schedule!
Neuromodulators (Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®): If you’re due for a touch-up, book 2-3 weeks before your event.
Dermal fillers: Minor touch-ups can be done 2 weeks out; allow time for any swelling to resolve.
PRP treatments: Continue your regular schedule; these work best with consistency.
Medical facials: Book your regular facial 1-2 weeks before your event for an extra glow boost.
Creating Your Personalized Party Season Timeline
At Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness in Orillia, every treatment plan is personalized. During your complimentary consultation, we’ll:
- Assess your current skin condition and discuss your aesthetic goals
- Review your timeline and upcoming events
- Recommend the optimal treatment combination for your unique needs
- Create a detailed schedule that ensures you look your absolute best when it matters most
- Discuss realistic expectations so you know exactly what to expect from each treatment
The Treatments You Can Stack
One of the most common questions I receive is: “Can I combine treatments?” The answer is often yes! Here are some powerful combinations:
- Neuromodulators + dermal fillers (often called a “liquid facelift”): Smooth lines while restoring volume
- RF microneedling + PRP: Supercharge collagen production for maximum rejuvenation
- Chemical peel + medical facial: Deep exfoliation followed by nourishing hydration
- Thread lift + dermal fillers: Lift sagging skin while restoring youthful volume
During your consultation, we’ll design a treatment protocol that addresses all your concerns within your timeline and budget.
What About At-Home Skincare?
Professional treatments provide dramatic results, but they work best when combined with quality at-home care. Here’s what I recommend to all my clients preparing for party season:
Start immediately:
- Medical-grade cleanser: Properly cleanse morning and night
- Vitamin C serum: Brightens and protects (apply in the morning)
- Retinol or retinoid: Increases cell turnover and collagen production (apply at night)
- Daily SPF: Yes, even in Canadian winter! UV rays cause 90% of premature aging
- Hydrating moisturizer: Combat indoor heating and harsh winter weather
Two weeks before your event:
- Add a hydrating mask: 2-3 times per week for an extra boost
- Start a gentle exfoliant: Remove dead skin cells for a radiant glow (but don’t overdo it!)
Avoid immediately before aesthetic treatments:
- Blood thinners (Aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) for 1 week before injectable treatments
- Retinol 3-5 days before any resurfacing treatments
- Aggressive exfoliation 1 week before professional treatments
We carry medical-grade skincare products at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, and I’m always happy to create a customized home care regimen during your visit.
Party Season Wellness: Beyond Your Skin
As a Nurse Practitioner, I believe true radiance comes from overall wellness, not just aesthetic treatments. Here’s how to support your skin from the inside out during party season:
IV Therapy for Energy and Radiance
Our IV therapy treatments deliver essential vitamins and nutrients directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for maximum absorption. During the busy holiday season, IV therapy can:
- Boost energy levels when you’re running on fumes
- Support immune function (nobody wants to be sick for their holiday party!)
- Enhance skin hydration and radiance from within
- Support recovery from late nights and holiday stress
Emsella for Pelvic Floor Confidence
Holiday parties often mean long evenings in beautiful outfits. If you experience bladder leakage or pelvic floor concerns, our Emsella chair provides a comfortable, non-invasive solution. This treatment strengthens your pelvic floor muscles, giving you confidence to dance the night away without worry.
Emsculpt Neo for Body Confidence
If you’re planning to wear that show-stopping holiday dress, Emsculpt Neo offers non-invasive body contouring that builds muscle and reduces fat simultaneously. Start 6-8 weeks before your event for visible results.
Starting Your Preparation Later Than Planned?
Life gets busy, and sometimes party season arrives before we’ve had time to prepare. If you’re reading this with only a week or two before your event, you still have excellent options. Here’s what we can accomplish:
With 2 weeks:
- Neuromodulators (if you’re an established client who knows how you respond)
- Medical facials
- Microneedling (if your skin tolerates redness well)
- At-home skincare routine intensive
With 1 week:
- Bela MD+ for instant glow
- Medical facial
- Professional skincare recommendations
- Lip injections (if you have no history of significant swelling)
Day of your event:
- Some clients book a Bela MD+ treatment the morning of their event for optimal radiance!
Understanding Realistic Expectations
As a medical professional, I believe in transparency. Here’s what you should know:
What aesthetic treatments CAN do:
- Enhance your natural beauty and features
- Restore youthful volume and smooth lines
- Improve skin quality, texture, and tone
- Provide a refreshed, rested appearance
- Boost your confidence when you look in the mirror
What aesthetic treatments CANNOT do:
- Transform you into someone else
- Reverse decades of aging overnight
- Replace healthy lifestyle habits (sleep, nutrition, hydration)
- Provide permanent results (maintenance is part of the journey)
The goal of medical aesthetics is to help you look like the best version of yourself—refreshed, confident, and natural. At Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, we never want you to look “overdone” or like you’ve had “work done.” We want you to glow.
The Orillia Advantage: Local Expertise
Living in Orillia and Simcoe County, we understand the unique needs of our community. From harsh winter weather that impacts skin health to the active outdoor lifestyle many of our clients enjoy, we tailor treatments to work with—not against—your environment and lifestyle.
As Orillia’s only Nurse Practitioner-led medical aesthetics clinic, Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness offers:
- Medical oversight for every treatment: Your safety is our priority
- Advanced training and credentials: All our injectors are regulated healthcare professionals
- Health Canada-approved products and devices: We use only proven, safe technologies
- Emergency preparedness: As medical professionals, we’re equipped to handle any rare complication
- Personalized care: We take time to truly understand your goals and concerns
Booking Your Party Season Treatments
December is our busiest month as Orillia residents prepare for holiday celebrations, family gatherings, and New Year’s Eve events. To ensure you secure your preferred appointment times:
Book your consultation now if you haven’t already. Even if you’re not sure exactly what you want, a consultation helps us create your personalized timeline.
Be flexible with appointment times during peak season. Our morning and lunch-hour appointments book quickly.
Communicate your event dates clearly so we can schedule treatments at optimal times for your timeline.
Ask questions! There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your face and your confidence.
Party Season Skin Prep: Your Action Plan
Here’s your simplified checklist for glowing skin all party season long:
8 weeks before major events:
- Book your complimentary consultation at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness
- Start medical-grade skincare routine
- Schedule foundation treatments (RF microneedling, chemical peels, thread lifts)
6 weeks before:
- Begin the second round of treatments if needed
- Assess results from foundation treatments
4 weeks before:
- Schedule neuromodulators (if first-time) and dermal fillers
- Continue home skincare regimen religiously
2 weeks before:
- Book refinement treatments (microneedling, PRP, medical facials)
- Avoid blood thinners if you have injectable treatments scheduled
1 week before:
- Final Bela MD+ for instant glow
- Confirm home care routine is optimized
Day of event:
- Apply SPF (yes, even for evening events—you never know when photos will happen!)
- Hydrate well
- Enjoy your confidence!
Your Confidence is Our Priority
After years of practicing aesthetic medicine here in Orillia, I’ve learned that the most meaningful outcome isn’t just beautiful skin—it’s the confidence that naturally follows. When you feel good about your appearance, it positively impacts how you engage with the world. You smile more freely in photos. You participate more fully in conversations. You enjoy your celebrations without self-consciousness about your appearance.
That’s what party season should be about: joy, connection, and celebration. Let’s make sure your skin is ready to enjoy every moment.
Ready to Glow?
The party season countdown has begun, and while the ideal preparation time was six weeks ago, there’s still an excellent opportunity to achieve beautiful results. The most important step is taking action now.
Book your complimentary consultation at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness:
- Clinic Phone: (705) 418-2903
- Clinic Contact Form: Website form
- Location: 21 Matchedash Street South, Suite 104, Orillia, ON L3V 4W4
- Book online: Free Consultation
Let’s create your personalized party season treatment plan and ensure you’re glowing at every celebration, from the Christmas Markets to your New Year’s Eve toast. Here’s to your most confident, radiant holiday season yet!
Emily Greb, NP
Nurse Practitioner & Owner
Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness
Orillia’s Only Nurse Practitioner-Led Medical Aesthetics Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I really book treatments for the holidays?
A: Ideally, 6-8 weeks for comprehensive results, but even 2-3 weeks can make a significant difference with the right treatments.
Q: Will I look “done” or overdone?
A: Never. Our philosophy at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness is natural enhancement. You should look like yourself, just refreshed and glowing.
Q: What if I’ve never had aesthetic treatments before?
A: Perfect! We love working with first-time clients. Your consultation is the perfect time to ask all your questions and understand exactly what to expect.
Q: Are these treatments safe?
A: Yes. All our treatments use Health Canada-approved products and devices, and as a Nurse Practitioner-led clinic, we maintain the highest medical safety standards.
Q: How much should I budget for party season prep?
A: Treatment costs vary based on your goals and chosen treatments. During your consultation, we’ll discuss options within your budget. We also offer package pricing for multiple treatments.
Q: Can I wear makeup after my treatments?
A: For most treatments, yes! Bela MD+ and medical facials allow immediate makeup application. Injectable treatments typically require waiting 4-6 hours before applying makeup.
Q: What if I have sensitive skin?
A: We tailor every treatment to your skin type and sensitivity level. During your consultation, we’ll review your skin history and design a gentle yet effective protocol.
Q: Do you offer gift certificates?
A: Absolutely! Aesthetic treatments make thoughtful, empowering gifts. Visit our clinic or website to purchase gift certificates for any service or dollar amount.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational purposes and does not replace a personalized consultation. Individual results may vary. All treatments mentioned are performed by Emily Greb, NP, or trained regulated healthcare professionals under the medical direction of Emily Greb, NP, at Face First Medical Aesthetics & Wellness in Orillia, Ontario.