UK Aesthetics Regulation: What the August 2025 Gov.uk Announcement Means for You

New Licensing System for Aesthetics in the UK. Government Cracks Down on “Cowboy” Clinics

On 6 August 2025, the UK government released a press statement announcing major regulatory changes to the aesthetics industry. These updates are part of the Health and Care Act and aim to crack down on unsafe, unregulated treatments.

According to the Department of Health and Social Care, this will include:

• A new licensing system for non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England

• Limiting high-risk treatments (such as non-surgical BBLs) to qualified healthcare professionals in CQC-registered premises

• A requirement for local authority licensing for providers offering injectables like Botox and fillers

• A ban on under-18s receiving high-risk procedures without sign-off from a healthcare professional

Why These Changes Are Happening

The move follows increasing pressure on the NHS to deal with complications from botched procedures, growing public concern, and industry calls for tighter regulation.

Health Minister Karin Smyth MP stated that the goal is to protect public safety, regulate rogue practitioners, and bring the industry in line with medical safety standards.

What This Means for You

Whether you’re a solo practitioner, clinic owner, or training academy, here’s what you should be doing now:

- Audit your qualifications
If you’re offering injectables, skin treatments or advanced procedures without Ofqual-recognised training, you’re at risk. CPD or manufacturer-led certificates likely won’t meet licensing standards.

- Check your treatment menu
Are you offering anything that could be classified as high-risk? If so, you may need a healthcare professional on-site or medical oversight to stay compliant.

- Prepare for licensing
When local authorities start issuing licences, they’ll be looking for proof of:

• Qualifications

• Hygiene and safety protocols

• Insurance

• Treatment suitability assessments

- Update your training offering (if you’re an academy)
Now is the time to double down on Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications that are Ofqual-regulated and fully insurable.

- Start messaging your clients differently
As this becomes public knowledge, clients will start asking questions. Make sure your marketing and website clearly show that you’re properly qualified and insured.

What’s Next?

The government will open a public consultation to decide exactly which treatments are considered high-risk, what qualifications are required, and how the licence system will be enforced.

We expect:

• A tiered system classifying treatments as red, amber, or green

• A clear definition of who can perform what

• Enforcement via fines and possible restrictions on non-compliant businesses

Final Thoughts

This isn’t about fear. It’s about future-proofing your career and protecting your clients. Whether you’re just starting out or have been trading for years, now is the time to tighten up your standards, training and compliance.

 Want to discuss how to align your business or training with these new changes? Book a call with our team or [DM us on Instagram].

Want to read the official announcement?
Click here for the full gov.uk statement.

 LINKS YOU'LL LOVE:

✔️ Free guide: Drive Revenue, Retention and Reputation – How to Build a Successful Aesthetics Business
✔️ Want regulated qualifications before the legislation arrives? Book a Discovery Call
✔️ Browse Ofqual-Regulated Qualifications
✔️ Why Employers Are Now Asking for Level 4 Qualifications as Standard and What That Means for Your Future in Skin + Aesthetics