Do your homework

Still, experts say those who plan to seek treatment at aesthetic clinics need to do their homework before undergoing procedures. (See report)

And the salons are not too disturbed by the challenge.

Despite the growing popularity of such clinics, spas and beauty salons think there is still room for them to survive.

Ms Ann Lee, chief executive of Adonis Beauty Consultants, said: "Of course, with some people going to aesthetic clinics, these doctors are also competing with us.

"But there will always be customers who prefer to maintain their looks with normal facials because they may not like the idea of regular Botox jabs."

Mr Adren How, managing director of ONLYaesthetics, a centre specialising in non-invasive treatments, feels the only edge that aesthetic clinics have over salons is a doctor's presence.

He said: "Smaller beauty salons normally do not have the funding for expensive and newer technology, thus, in this age, it will be difficult to follow through against the bigger players.

"So we bring in quality newer technology which produces results. Only this way are we able to earn the trust of our customers."

This article was first published in The New Paper.