Shirley Ballas on Non-Surgical Facelift: 'I look better now than I did 10 years ago'

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas, 66, has unveiled the results of nearly £4,500 in aesthetic treatments, asserting that she feels more confident about her appearance than she did a decade ago. The television personality underwent a series of NeoGen nitrogen plasma treatments designed to rejuvenate her skin without surgery.

Ballas, preparing for her tenth year on the Strictly panel, expressed that the prospect of millions watching her each week is daunting but that she feels more self-assured this year. "I look better now than I did 10 years ago," she stated, recalling that she was "quite embarrassed" by photographs of herself from 2017. She cited sagging jowls, lines, wrinkles, and age spots as past concerns that often required heavy makeup for concealment.

The judge also addressed past criticism regarding her appearance, including comments on social media about perceived "bingo wings," sagging skin, and thinning hair. Ballas noted a shift in online commentary, with some now speculating about surgical procedures. "I can assure all of you that write on social media, no facelift here, only my NeoGen," she clarified.

This year, Ballas received six NeoGen nitrogen plasma sessions from Dr. Maude Calveley at the Ouronyx aesthetic clinic in London. This marks her fifth year of undergoing such treatments. "I turned 66 a few weeks ago, and the ageing process is not slowing down, I need more support now than ever before, so I decided to up the ante on my treatments," she explained, adding that she is "happier than ever with my skin."

Her refreshed appearance has been noticed by others, including her son, professional dancer Mark Ballas. While working with him on the US show Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, he commented on her changed look, which he described as "remarkable." Ballas expressed how much his words meant to her.

Dr. Calveley explained the treatment's goal was to "firm the jawline and neck without surgery, even out skin tone and clear the sun damage, and to do it in a way that was invisible in progress, so she could carry on filming throughout." She added that the treatments successfully addressed areas around the eyes, resulting in a "fresher" appearance while maintaining Ballas's natural look.

Ballas's updated look coincides with reports of her growing closer to 36-year-old Italian dancer Giuseppe Nonnis, who was recently seen with Ballas on a dog walk. However, Nonnis's mother, Franca Nonnis, expressed surprise at the relationship rumors, stating that Shirley is Giuseppe's dance teacher and that he had recently gone through a difficult breakup. "That's why I would be surprised if he was already in another relationship but if he is happy then I am happy. I just don't think he's ready yet for another relationship," she told the Daily Mail.

Despite reaching retirement age, Ballas has no plans to quit working and intends to continue prioritizing her self-care. "I don't think I'm ever going to retire, but I am going to keep taking care of myself and taking care of my skin. I certainly don't think I look 66," she said.