September 22, 2022

Cefinn Sirens - Dr Alexis Zander

We are so excited to introduce our latest Siren; dentist and facial aesthetics practitioner, Dr Alexis Zander.

We spent a fantastic day with Alexis in her beautiful home talking famous clients, top tips for cosmetic treatments and her laid-back Aussie style while she styled her favourite pieces from our Autumn 22 collection.

What do you do?

I am a dentist and facial aesthetics practitioner. I specialise in natural-looking facial rejuvenation and natural-looking smile makeovers including Invisalign, teeth whitening and composite bonding. I work across three sites - in Harley St, Putney and East Sheen.

How did you start your career?

I’ve always been interested in health. After studying Dentistry, I went on to a Masters in Public Health at Cambridge Uni and then a doctorate in Public Health. I always wanted to incorporate general health principles in my clinical work as a dentist and facial aesthetics practitioner. Now, when I see a patient for the first time, I look at the whole picture and I want to do treatments that will last a lifetime and actually improve their overall mouth or skin health. That’s a big focus for me.

Any clients we may be familiar with?

Many! But not too many I can talk about. I do treat the gorgeous Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey from VCH Style. I LOVE her style and shamelessly copy everything she wears! Last time she visited, we were wearing the same jacket, earrings and bag.

How would you describe your style?

I’m an Aussie and I think that comes through in my style. I’ve never felt comfortable in a suit, I like skirts, flowy dresses, flats and anything blue. In recent years, I’ve definitely become more conscious of buying fewer, better pieces so I actually don’t have that much in the way of clothes but what I do have is good quality and works hard for me.

Any style tips or advice?

Great skin and great teeth look amazing on everyone! I really think people notice these two things before anything else. Plus you wear them every single day.

What is your everyday ‘uniform’?

Scrubs! Not very glamorous. For after work and for conferences etc, I tend to wear skirts and dresses so usually a colourful skirt, nice flats and linen or silk shirt or a dress. I like dresses because I don’t have to think about putting together an outfit, it’s just one piece and done!

Best advice you’ve ever been given (personally and professionally)?

Quality over quantity (thanks, Dad!)
Eat real food
LISTEN to your patients.

What are important factors for you when picking an outfit?

I know it isn’t very sexy to say this but honestly, ease and comfort are very high on the list. I have two children who are constantly spilling things so if it isn’t machine washable, it doesn’t have a place in my wardrobe! If I can get away with not ironing it, then even better!

Top tips when it comes to getting cosmetic treatments?

1. If you want natural looking treatments, go to someone who specialises in this type of work. In my opinion, the best work is invisible.

2. Two-stage lip filler is an absolute game-changer. People are terrified of lip treatments because we’ve all seen bad work. If you break the treatment down into two stages, it gives time for the product to settle in naturally, it gives me the opportunity to mix different products if needed and lowers the risk of complications. You can think of it like hydrating the lips with the first treatment and then giving some oomph if needed on the second treatment.

3. Skin is the basis for everything. Clear skin with good elasticity looks amazing on everyone. There are lots of ways to achieve this but some of my favourites are: 1. Medical-grade skin care (ie prescribed by your aesthetics doctor) 2. Medical micro needling 3. Injectable skin boosters (like PROFHILO)

What do you love about your job?

Everything! I know it’s rare, but I honestly do love my job and I feel so lucky to do what I love. Aesthetic dentistry is a unique combination of science and art – you need an in-depth understanding of materials science and biology, but you also need to be artistic and have a good eye. The same goes for facial aesthetics. There are not many jobs that combine those skills and it suits me perfectly! Most of all though, I love my patients – honestly, I spend the majority of my day chatting and it’s so lovely.

How did you hear about Cefinn?

I was in Matches looking for a dress to wear to my husband’s birthday party and the lady there recommended the Cordelia dress.

Favourite pieces from Cefinn’s collection?

The Tiana Skirt, I have it in black and love it in the cream too. Also the Luna Dress, the girls call the fabric 'tie-dye for grown ups' and I love that!

What do you love about Cefinn?

I love that the style is cool but elevated – it’s just the right balance for my everyday… and that the fabrics are machine washable (not sexy but important!)