There’s no point in denying that we live in a world where first impressions are often visual. Thus, beauty has quietly taken its place as an integral part of making a great first impression. It’s not about subscribing to unattainable standards or superficial vanity, but rather about recognizing that the way we present ourselves is a reflection of the respect we show to others and to ourselves. This connection between beauty and politeness is deeply rooted in the idea that self-care is not just a personal indulgence but a social courtesy.
Consider the way we prepare for a meeting or a social gathering. We choose our words carefully, we listen attentively, and we dress appropriately—all these actions are rooted in the desire to show respect and engage in a meaningful manner. In the same way, the attention we pay to our appearance can be seen as an extension of our decorum. Looking polished and well-groomed is a way of saying, “I care about this interaction, and I respect the people I am engaging with.”
This is where the relationship between beauty and confidence becomes particularly significant. Confidence is not just an internal feeling; it’s a quality that radiates outward and influences how we are perceived. When we feel good about our appearance, it empowers us to move through the world with a sense of assurance and poise. This confidence, in turn, enhances our interactions, making them more genuine and impactful.
Such quiet confidence was evident in the way Mun Ka-Young walked to the stage in her recent appearance as Radiesse’s new brand ambassador for Asia-Pacific. At the Capella, housed in The Four Seasons in Bangkok, Radiesse celebrated its 20th year in late August and launched her as the new face of the brand. One of medical aesthetics’ best kept secrets, Radiesse is the only regenerative biostimulator capable of regenerating multiple components of the skin tissue that’s currently available in the market.
Dressed in white, with her long hair cascading down her back, the 28-year-old actress, known for her roles in popular Korean dramas and her impeccable sense of style, smiled at the crowd with a quiet confidence. She radiated grace and elegance, not just through her appearance, but through an inner assurance that resonated with her audience. “It’s not just about your skin,” Mun said when discussing the “Your Skin on the Reset” campaign. “It’s also about the confidence that comes from within.” This kind of confidence—becoming the best version of yourself at any age—has never been more attainable, thanks to advancements in medical aesthetics.
At its core, Radiesse is a biostimulator, meaning it doesn’t simply fill in lines or add temporary volume. Instead, it encourages one’s skin to regenerate its own natural collagen and elastin—the very components that give skin its youthful elasticity and firmness. Over time, as we age, our skin’s ability to produce these essential proteins diminishes, leading to the common signs of aging: sagging, wrinkles, and loss of volume. For some people, this writer included, drastic changes in one’s appearance can sometimes lead to one’s confidence taking a hit. It’s a reminder of how fleeting time can be and how stress can manifest in our physical appearance.
Dr. Niamh Corduff, a plastic surgeon and clinical director of RiverEnd Aesthetics in Australia, emphasizes that science is now at the forefront of regeneration. “Restoring youthful, healthy tissues—that is regeneration, the holy grail of medicine,” she explains. While the field of medicine once relied heavily on transplants, it has now advanced to a stage where healthy tissue can be regrown to improve organ function. This same technology is now making waves in the realm of medical aesthetics. Radiesse plays a key role here, acting as a silent partner that supports the skin’s natural processes, helping it regain its youthful resilience.
The brand touts a dual-action effect: When injected, it provides immediate volume and lift, smoothing out wrinkles and folds. In the following months, its biostimulatory properties prompt the skin to produce new collagen, resulting in natural-looking improvements that continue to develop over time, offering long-term benefits without the need for frequent touch-ups.
What sets Radiesse apart is its subtlety, making it particularly appealing to those who value a natural appearance. Instead of forcing drastic changes, it enhances what is already there, allowing you to look like the best version of yourself. This approach aligns perfectly with the modern ethos of beauty—where less is often more, and the goal is to look refreshed and confident, not altered. This trend, known as “skinimalism,” celebrates minimal intervention and a natural, healthy glow.
So when it comes to attaining a more youthful yet natural appearance, the secret lies in what’s inside. “You want healthy tissue. That’s why it’s important to pick the right biostimulator because that will give you the right tissue,” Dr. Corduff adds.