Last week, I attended the CCR Congress, one of the biggest aesthetic conferences in the UK calendar. It’s always a highlight of the year for anyone working in aesthetic medicine as it brings together the best injectors, surgeons, brands and innovators under one (very bright and perfectly polished) roof.

I went along on Thursday and Friday, and left feeling inspired, curious, and with a slightly sore shoulder from carrying far too many freebies.

Learning from the best

One of the standout sessions for me was a live demonstration from James Olding, Maxillofacial Surgeon, on how the anatomy of the lower face, and how mandibular rotation can impact any dermal filler treatment we give. This is especially relevant when I’m assessing someone with a weaker chin, or when treating gender-affirming patients where I might want to soften or project the chin to align with their goals and identity.

I love how sessions like this deepen our understanding of why “less is more” when it comes to filler placement. It’s all about small, precise changes that make a big impact.

Innovation and regenerative aesthetics

Another part of CCR I always look forward to is exploring new technology.

This year, I was really intrigued by the Pladuo Dual Plasma system, which uses Nitrogen and Argon to treat a variety of skin concerns. Devices like this bridge the gap between skincare and regenerative medicine, which is exactly where I think our industry is heading.

Supplements are becoming more and more popular ,such as NAD, an enzyme which plays a role in metabolism and helps our cells generate energy and repair DNA. It naturally depletes as we get older and is linked to many age-related conditions. Many ‘bio-hacker’s’ are turning to NAD injections and have reported increased energy levels and cognitive processing.

One of the most exciting themes emerging across the conference was how aesthetic medicine is moving further into the regenerative and wellbeing space. Treatments aren’t just about restoring or enhancing physical appearance anymore, they’re increasingly focused on mental cognition, energy, and even encouraging new neural pathways to help combat brain fog and depression.

That holistic, mind-body connection is something I’m hugely passionate about at Joy by Sophie, and it’s so encouraging to see the wider industry moving in the same direction.

And of course… the Prosecco moment 🍾

No conference would be complete without that magical moment around 2 or 3pm, when the exhibitors start handing out free Prosecco in a last-ditch attempt to convince you to drop £70,000 on a laser. Not yet… but maybe soon!

Why events like CCR matter

Events like CCR aren’t just about new products or shiny machines, they’re about community, collaboration, and continuous learning. They remind me why I love what I do, and why ongoing education is at the heart of safe, effective, and evidence-based practice.

Every time I attend, I come back to the clinic feeling refreshed and inspired to bring new techniques and perspectives into my treatments, always with my patients’ goals and wellbeing front and centre.