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By
The Sybarite Team
on
20th January 2025
Alice Henshaw, the visionary founder of Harley Street Injectables, stands as one of the
UK’s most esteemed aesthetic practitioners. By Yvette Thomson.
From Alice Henshaw's impeccably elegant clinic nestled in the heart of London’s Marylebone, she has cultivated a reputation that extends far beyond W1. Her discerning clientele travel from across the globe to seek her unparalleled expertise, entrusting her with their desire for refined, natural enhancements delivered through her celebrated “tweakments.”
In 2021, Alice introduced Skincycles, her own skincare line rooted in science and ethical innovation. Designed to elevate and sustain the skin’s vitality, this thoughtfully crafted range embodies her commitment to excellence. A few years later, Skincycles found its home at Liberty of London, a fitting union of heritage and modern beauty that underscores Alice’s status as a trailblazer in the world of aesthetics.
What inspired you to start Harley Street Injectables, and what vision did you have in mind when launching the clinic?
The inspiration behind Harley Street Injectables was my desire to provide a clinic that prioritised tailored, natural-looking results. I wanted to shift the narrative away from cookie-cutter treatments and instead focus on enhancing a client’s unique features. My vision was to create a space that combined cutting-edge treatments with a commitment to high-end, personalised service. I aspired to build trust by offering only the highest-quality products and a bespoke experience, where every client felt valued and confident in their results. From the start, I’ve always believed that aesthetics should amplify one’s natural beauty rather than redefine it.
How would you describe your approach to aesthetics and non-surgical enhancements?
My approach to aesthetics is rooted in the philosophy of "less is more." I believe enhancements should be subtle and flawless—so much so that people shouldn’t be able to pinpoint that you’ve had something done. It’s about enhancing confidence, not creating a new face. Equally important is skin health. Healthy, glowing skin is the foundation of beauty, and I work with clients to ensure they feel confident without makeup, not just because of fillers or Botox. I take a multi-modular approach, incorporating treatments like skin tightening devices, bio-stimulators and even collaborating with plastic surgeons to offer a holistic range of services. It’s all about combining art, science, and skin health for results that last.
Can you explain what makes Harley Street Injectables different from other clinics in the UK?
What sets Harley Street Injectables apart is our uncompromising commitment to quality and integrity. We only use the best products and technologies, but more importantly, we prioritise what the client actually needs over what they think they want. Many clients come in asking for specific treatments, like cheek or lip filler, but often they don’t need what they’re asking for. I’ve built my business on trust, and I frequently turn clients away or guide them toward alternative treatments that better suit their goals. This ethical, honest approach is rare in an industry where over-treatment is common, and it’s why so much of our business comes from referrals. Harley Street Injectables is more than a clinic—it’s a trusted brand.
What emerging trends in aesthetics excite you the most, and how do you see the industry evolving in the next five years?
I’m thrilled to see the industry shifting toward a more natural aesthetic. For years, there’s been a push for dramatic transformations, but now clients are embracing subtle, refined results that enhance rather than alter. In the next five years, I think we’ll see advancements in bio-stimulating treatments and technologies that support overall skin health. Procedures like exosome therapy, collagen-stimulating injectables, and devices for non-invasive skin tightening will become more mainstream. The focus will continue to shift toward regenerative aesthetics, where the goal is to maintain and restore youthful skin rather than artificially augment it.
Building trust is crucial in your line of work. How do you ensure your clients feel confident and well-informed throughout their journey?
I am always honest, approachable, and transparent. I ensure every client receives a thorough consultation where their goals are discussed, and I provide realistic expectations about what can be achieved. I never oversell treatments or push clients into procedures they don’t need. By using the best products and devices on the market, I can confidently stand behind the results I deliver. This ethical approach has earned me my clients’ trust and loyalty. Educating clients about the treatments they receive and the importance of maintenance also ensures they feel empowered and confident throughout their journey.
Are there any signature treatments or techniques you’re particularly proud of at Harley Street Injectables?
I’m especially proud of my signature lip technique, which really put me on the map. It’s a bespoke approach to creating natural, beautifully proportioned lips tailored to each person’s unique facial structure. The same principles of balance, harmony, and subtlety carry through to my full-face filler techniques, which are all about enhancing features without looking overdone. Beyond injectables, our clinic offers an extensive range of treatments, from lasers and body tightening to gynaecology aesthetics, IV drips, and longevity therapies.
One of the highlights is our Skincycles chemical peels and mesotherapy, designed to improve skin health by targeting pigmentation, boosting collagen, and delivering a radiant glow. Our signature treatments — like The Filter Facial and The Caviar Peel — are incredibly popular for their transformative results. We also offer tailored mesotherapy for the face and eyes, using products that are dermatologist-approved, and renowned for delivering exceptional, natural results. It’s all about combining advanced cosmetic treatments with quality skincare to help clients look and feel their best.
What challenges have you faced in building and maintaining a successful aesthetics clinic, and how did you overcome them?
Staffing has been one of the biggest challenges—it's like speed dating, but instead of finding "the one," you're hunting for "the team." I’ve tackled this by being highly selective in hiring, focusing on individuals who not only have the right skills but also the right attitude. Creating a culture of collaboration and support has been key—think less corporate hierarchy, more dream team energy. Clear communication and ensuring that everyone is on the same page and passionate about delivering the best for our clients.
What keeps you passionate about your work, and how do you stay motivated amidst such a competitive industry?
I feel incredibly fortunate to work with such amazing clients. Many of them feel like friends, which makes every day enjoyable. I genuinely love what I do—perhaps a little too much! The variety of each day keeps me motivated, as does the joy of helping clients feel more confident. The competitive nature of the industry only pushes me to stay ahead, innovate, and constantly strive for excellence. Knowing that I’m making a positive impact in people’s lives is the ultimate motivator.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own aesthetics clinic or become an injector?
Brace yourself. Running a clinic isn’t a 9-to-5; it’s more of a 24/7 lifestyle. The idea of freedom is lovely, but in the beginning, you’ll probably be working every day that ends in “y”. That said, once you build a strong team and hit your stride, it gets more manageable, but only if you’re genuinely passionate about what you do. This is a competitive industry, and clients can spot authenticity. Focus on delivering exceptional results, stay genuine and you’ll build trust, and a loyal client base.
What’s next for Harley Street Injectables? Are there any exciting plans or projects on the horizon?
Potentially expanding into new locations. The clinic is also focused on evolving its training programs to teach other practitioners the signature injection techniques it’s known for. Whatever the future holds, it will always align with my core values of quality, integrity, and exceptional service.
What is your personal skincare routine?
Well, it would be a bit awkward if I didn’t use my own skincare brand. Luckily, I genuinely swear by it. It’s my secret weapon for great skin (alongside Botox!). In the morning, I start with the Skincycles Glycolic Cleanser to gently exfoliate my skin. Then comes the Luminance C Serum, packed with stabilized Vitamin C to brighten and even out my skin tone. It’s a must for that radiant, fresh-faced look. I then use the 5DHA Serum, which hydrates every layer of my skin with five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid. Think plump, dewy skin, all day long. I follow with the Age Defence Cream, boosted with our TGHA4 technology to smooth fine lines and support collagen. I finish with the DNA Defence Sunscreen SPF 100—my non-negotiable shield against UV and pollution. It also has a light tint so I usually go makeup-free during the week.
At night, my routine is all about repair and rejuvenation. I start with the Exoyouth Cleansing Balm, which melts away makeup and impurities while leaving my skin feeling soft and nourished. It’s like giving myself a mini facial every evening. Next, I use the Retinol Youth Serum, which works hard overnight to smooth texture, refine pores, and target fine lines.
I follow that with the Collagen Renewal Complex, a deeply hydrating formula that firms and supports the skin’s structure, leaving it plump and refreshed by morning. For my eyes, I finish with Revive Eyes, which is my go-to for reducing puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines—it’s like a full night’s sleep in a jar.
Finally, just before bed, I treat my skin to the Exoyouth Sleep Mask. It’s packed with oligopeptides to support collagen renewal while I sleep, so I wake up looking like I’ve had 10 hours of rest—even if it’s more like five. My routine is simple, effective, and a bit of a love letter to my own brand—I wouldn’t trust my skin with anything else.
What are your favourite self-care treatments?
I’m currently obsessed with a new device we have at my clinic called Icoone, and honestly, it’s a game-changer. This treatment uses robotic technology to deliver precise, multi-microstimulation to the skin, making it perfect for lymphatic drainage, among other incredible benefits. It works by targeting both the surface and deeper layers of the skin, improving circulation, reducing puffiness, and detoxifying the body. I personally love using it for my legs, especially after long days of standing at the clinic. It’s like giving your legs a much-needed break, reducing any swelling or heaviness and leaving them feeling light and refreshed. It’s brilliant for improving skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of cellulite, and even enhancing overall muscle recovery. It’s one of those treatments where you see and feel the difference immediately, and now I can’t imagine my self-care routine without it!
I stick to a few key treatments to keep my skin in top shape. Every four weeks, I have a caviar peel for bright, smooth skin—it’s like a luxurious reset. Every six weeks, I get mesotherapy for a boost of hydration and that healthy glow. And every three months, I top up with Botox to keep things looking fresh and natural. Simple, effective, and it works!
How do you unwind and take care of your physical and mental wellbeing?
I focus on a mix of fitness and wellness to stay balanced. I love attending classes at KX London—it’s a great way to clear my mind and keep fit. I also visit Rebase in Marylebone for ice baths and oxygen chamber sessions, which are close to my clinic and perfect for a quick reset. Long walks with my dog are my therapy, and a game of tennis is my way of staying active while letting out a bit of competitive energy. Between all of that, I somehow manage to keep myself sane and balanced… most of the time!
