CPD module: Pharmacy aesthetics - an update

After completing this module, you should be more aware of:

•      the popularity non-surgical cosmetic procedures;
•      government proposals to tighten up access to aesthetic procedures and treatments;
•      how a new licensing system is likely to apply to pharmacists and other health professionals
•      current legislation and ministerial powers
•      outcomes from the Department of Health and Social Care’s public consultation;
•       the Scottish Government’s intention to publish a Bill this autumn for legislative changes
•      the three tier proposals requiring licensing, registration or restriction of cosmetics procedures based on the risk of harm
•       the likelihood of a minimum age of 18 being mandatory for procedures;
•      some of the matters the DHSC will still have to determine with further consultation;
•       the role of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners, its standards and resources;
•      General Pharmaceutical Council and Royal Pharmaceutical Society support for JCCP activity;
•      examples of GPhC expectations for pharmacies providing aesthetic services;
•      an indication of how soon the legislative changes will be introduced.

Non-surgical cosmetic procedures have become increasingly popular in the UK. In 2024, the UK’s aesthetic industry was estimated to be growing at 8.4% annually, giving it a market value of £3.2 billion, with more than 890,00 procedures (covering 40 or more separate categories and types) taking place.^1,2

Of interest for pharmacies considering entering the aesthetics sector, significant increases have been seen particularly in non-injectable treatments, up 23% in 2024, and wellness and longevity services up 17%.³

However, as regulations have not kept pace with developments in technology and procedures, the aesthetics legislative framework is being tightened up. A new licensing system for non-surgical cosmetic procedures will be introduced to give the public greater protection from harm.¹

A consultation process has given the Department of Health and Social Care more work to do before it can finalise the details for implementing the new system in England. However, it is likely that all registered health professionals wanting to provide non-surgical aesthetic services (and not just aestheticians) will be required to have a special licence to do so.^1,4