The 1 Health Difference: Evidence-Based Aesthetics Without Luxury Markup

Bernard Teo • 13 November 2025

When you’re comparing aesthetic treatments in Christchurch, it doesn’t take long to notice huge differences in pricing. A Botox treatment that costs $450 at one clinic might cost $750 at another — same product, same outcome, completely different price tag.


So what’s behind these variations, and what should you actually be paying for?


At 1 Health, we’re introducing aesthetic treatments with a very different philosophy: evidence-based medicine without the luxury markup.


Here’s what that means — and why it matters.


The Hidden Cost of Luxury Aesthetic Clinics

Walk into many standalone aesthetic clinics and you’re greeted by marble reception desks, designer furniture, champagne, mood lighting, and spa-style décor.


It looks great.


But you’re paying for that marble desk with every syringe of Botox.

What You're Really Paying For at Luxury Clinics


High overheads:

  • Premium retail rent
  • Interior design and fit-outs
  • Costly furniture and refurbishments
  • Free beverages and “luxury experience” add-ons
  • High-budget marketing and influencer campaigns
  • Commission-based staff who upsell


Luxury markup:

  • Anti-wrinkle injections: $17–25/unit
  • Dermal fillers: often 300–400% markup
  • Skin boosters: $750–950 (product cost ~$280)


These clinics aren’t necessarily offering better medical care — just a premium environment with premium pricing.


The Marketing vs Medicine Problem

Many cosmetic clinics operate more like retail shops than medical environments.


Commission-Based Sales Culture

  • Staff incentivised to upsell
  • Pressure to buy packages or “add-on” treatments
  • Revenue targets influencing treatment advice


Marketing Over Evidence

  • Heavy use of influencers
  • Overuse of before/after transformations
  • Emphasis on cosmetic outcomes over clinical reasoning


Aesthetic Isolation

  • No integration with your overall health
  • No access to full medical records
  • Limited support for complications


A pleasant environment is great, but you shouldn't have to pay double or triple for a designer waiting room.


The 1 Health Model: Medical Value Without the Markup

1 Health is a full medical clinic — not a spa — that offers aesthetic services with clinical oversight and transparent pricing.


Why Our Pricing Is Lower

We already have:


  • Medical-grade facilities
  • Registered medical practitioners
  • Full emergency equipment
  • Pharmacy-level storage
  • Insurance + compliance systems
  • GP clinic infrastructure


There’s no “luxury overhead” built into our pricing.


What You’re NOT Sacrificing

You still receive:


  • Medsafe/TGA approved pharmaceutical-grade injectables
  • Skilled aesthetic nurse (Jordan Zheng)
  • Dual medical oversight (LA Aire + Dr Teo)
  • Evidence-based dosing and treatment protocols
  • Safe, clinical environment
  • Natural, balanced results


What you're not paying for:

  • Designer décor
  • Champagne
  • Influencer budgets
  • Pressure selling
  • Luxury-location rent premiums


Evidence-Based Product Selection

Every product we use meets strict medical criteria.


Our Standards

  • Medsafe/TGA regulatory approval
  • Strong clinical evidence
  • Proven long-term safety
  • Correct indication-based use
  • Sourced from authorised distributors


Current Product Range


Anti-Wrinkle Injectables

Botox®

  • FDA-approved since 2002 (cosmetic)
  • 30+ years of data
  • Predictable, reliable results


Dysport®

  • Faster onset
  • Broader diffusion
  • Equivalent efficacy


Xeomin®

  • Pure “naked toxin”
  • Lower antibody risk
  • Great for long-term users


Clinical bottom line: They’re all safe, effective, and equivalent when dosed correctly.


Micro-Fillers & Skin Boosters

Rejuran® Healer

  • Improves elasticity, hydration, texture
  • 9–12 month duration
  • Strong clinical evidence


Juvelook®

  • Dual HA + PDLLA technology
  • Collagen-stimulating
  • 12–18 months duration


NCTF 135HA

  • HA + vitamins + minerals
  • Europe’s gold standard for skin quality
  • 97% patient satisfaction


Teosyal Redensity 1

  • Designed for delicate areas
  • Exceptional hydration and radiance


Sunekos®

  • HA + amino acids
  • Great for under-eyes
  • 6–12 month duration


What We Don’t Offer

  • Trendy treatments without evidence
  • Unproven “lunchtime” procedures
  • Off-label use without strong data
  • Aggressive, unnatural protocols


We wait for evidence — not hype.


Transparent Pricing: Know What You’re Paying For

Many clinics price by “area,” which hides the actual product used.


Our Philosophy: Per-Unit Pricing

Why it matters:


  • You know exactly what you’re paying
  • It’s fair and predictable
  • Tailored to your face and muscle activity
  • No hidden surprises


Example: frown lines may need 20–30 units depending on the patient — per-unit pricing reflects this.


Medical Oversight: The Value You Don’t See

This is where 1 Health stands apart.


Before Treatment

  • Full medical history access
  • Medication checks
  • Risk assessment
  • Dermatology input from Dr Teo


During Treatment

  • On-site GP support
  • Emergency equipment
  • Regulated medical facility
  • Supervision from accredited doctors


After Treatment

  • Integrated follow-up
  • Medical management if complications occur
  • Skin cancer screening if needed


The Hidden Cost of Poor Oversight

  • Luxury clinics and beauty salons often lack:
  • Emergency medication
  • On-site doctors
  • Proper complication protocols


When things go wrong, patients end up in ED — often too late.


At 1 Health, complications are instantly recognised, managed, and treated appropriately.


The Integrated Care Advantage

Holistic Skin Health

We look at overall skin health and integrate medical care where needed.


Preventive Care Integration

Skin cancer checks or dermatology concerns can be managed immediately.


Medication Management

We assess interactions and contraindications — something cosmetic spas rarely do.


Jordan Zheng: Experience Without the Markup

Professional Background

  • Registered Nurse
  • Established injector in Christchurch
  • Advanced Sunekos training
  • Ongoing training with LA Aire


Medical Oversight

  • Standing orders from NZSCM-accredited doctors
  • Supervised by Dr Teo
  • 24/7 clinical support
  • Monthly competency reviews


What Patients Appreciate

  • Gentle technique
  • Realistic expectations
  • Natural approach
  • No pressure


Book Your Consultation

Ready to experience evidence-based aesthetics without the luxury markup?

Contact 1 Health:


  • Phone: 03 662 9309
    Website: www.1health.nz
    Email: reception@1health.nz
    Address: 1 Henry Wigram Drive, Wigram
  • Opening hours as listed.

Have Questions About Your Health?

Our clinicians at 1 Health are here to help — whether it’s GP care, dental, travel vaccines, or facial aesthetics. Book a consultation anytime.


Book Online:

https://www.1health.nz/contact


Call:

03 662 9309


Disclaimer:

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every person’s health situation is different. For personalised guidance or diagnosis, please consult a qualified clinician.

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