UK Aesthetics Regulation: What The August 2025 GOV.UK Announcement Means:

On the 6^{th of} 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 (Medics) 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 are these changes happening?

This 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 are a solo practitioner, clinic owner, or training academy, here is what you should be doing now:

• Upgrade your CPD certificates – You are at risk if you offer skin treatments, advanced treatments, or injectables without Ofqual-Regulated Qualifications. CPD or manufacturer-led certificates will likely not meet licensing standards.

• Check the treatments you offer – 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 licenses, they will be looking for proof of:

• Qualifications (not CPD certificates).

• Hygiene and safety protocols.

• Insurance.

• Treatment suitability assessments.

What happens next?

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

We expect:

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

• A clear definition of who can perform which treatments.

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

It is about future-proofing your career and protecting your clients. Whether you are just starting out or have been trading for years, NOW is the time to tighten up your standards, training and compliance.

If you want to read the official announcement:

Click here for the full gov.uk statement.