The UK government has confirmed that it will introduce a licensing scheme for aesthetic and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, marking a major shift in how the sector is regulated. The measures, announced by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), are designed to protect the public and raise professional standards, following years of campaigning from the British Beauty Council, the National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF), and other industry bodies.
Under the new framework, procedures will be regulated according to their level of risk. High-risk treatments, including non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lifts, will only be performed by qualified healthcare professionals in Care Quality Commission–registered premises.
Businesses offering injectables such as fillers and botulinum toxins will require a licence from local authorities, demonstrating appropriate training, hygiene, safety standards, and insurance. Age restrictions will also apply, with under-18s barred from accessing certain treatments unless authorised by a healthcare professional.
Health Minister Karin Smyth said the changes are not about restricting access but ensuring safety. “This Government is taking action to protect those seeking treatments, support honest and competent practitioners, and root out the cowboys as part of our Plan for Change,” she said. The DHSC noted that botched procedures currently place a significant burden on the NHS, which the reforms aim to reduce.
Industry leaders have welcomed the announcement. British Beauty Council chief executive Millie Kendall OBE said regulation will professionalise the sector and ensure people can engage with beauty safely. Caroline Larissey of the NHBF added that the system will distinguish qualified professionals from untrained operators, while Diane Hey of the Beauty Industry Group said it represents a long-awaited recognition of reputable practitioners and regulated education pathways.
The Government has confirmed that further consultations will take place early next year to determine standards for medium- and low-risk treatments. For now, practitioners are being encouraged to maintain high standards, review their qualifications, and prepare for the upcoming licensing requirements.
