Upcoming Changes in Aesthetics Regulation in England

On 7 August 2025, the UK Government officially confirmed its plans to introduce a licensing system for non-surgical cosmetic procedures. This marks a turning point for the entire beauty and aesthetics industry – a move from years of unclear rules towards a unified framework designed to protect patient safety.

👉 Full government document: The licensing of non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England: consultation response (GOV.UK)

Why are new regulations being introduced?

For many years, procedures such as fillers, Botox, mesotherapy, and chemical peels could be carried out without consistent legal standards. There was no requirement for specific qualifications, licences, or hygiene supervision. As a result, serious complications occurred, and patients often had no guarantee that they were receiving safe and professional treatment.

What will change?

According to the government’s consultation response, the licensing system will be based on a risk categorisation model:

• High-risk procedures (red category):
  Treatments such as non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lifts or deep filler applications will only be allowed to be performed by qualified healthcare professionals, in CQC-registered premises (Care Quality Commission).

• Medium and low-risk procedures (amber/green categories):
  Popular treatments such as Botox and standard fillers will be licensed and supervised by local authorities (councils), which will issue licences for practitioners and premises that meet set standards.

The regulations will include:

• mandatory training and qualification requirements,

• hygiene and safety standards,

• compulsory insurance,

• rules for premises and equipment,

• protection of under-18s (ban on high-risk procedures unless medically justified).

What does this mean for the industry?

For aesthetic practitioners, this will mean the need to comply with stricter requirements. Clinics and practitioners will have to ensure proper documentation, hygiene policies, training, and insurance. In the long term, the new rules will raise the reputation and trust of the sector by eliminating poorly prepared providers and unsafe practices.

How to prepare?

At C-Training Innovation Centre, we already support practitioners and clinics in preparing for these changes. We provide:

• training aligned with upcoming requirements,

• support in creating documentation and procedures,

• guidance on implementing hygiene and safety standards,

• help with preparing premises for licensing requirements.

Conclusion

Change is inevitable – on 7 August 2025, the government officially began the implementation stage of the licensing system. Now is the time to organise your practice, invest in qualifications, and prepare for a new era in aesthetics.

👉 Treat these changes as an opportunity to grow your business and strengthen patient trust.