EDITOR'S COMMENT

New Government proposals this month underline just how quickly the regulatory landscape is shifting for beauty businesses. In England, plans to tighten enforcement of sunbed regulations would see unsupervised sessions banned and mandatory ID checks introduced. Meanwhile, in Scotland, MSPs have agreed to the principles of the Non-Surgical Procedures Bill, paving the way for stricter licensing and training requirements for treatments including dermal fillers and microneedling. Check out our news from page 5 for more detail.

That focus on safer, science-backed treatments is also reflected in our feature on biomicroneedling (page 62). Often described as nature’s answer to microneedling, it uses spicules to stimulate collagen and enhance ingredient absorption without breaking the skin barrier. We explore how the treatment works and how to position it commercially.

Of course, innovation isn’t limited to treatment rooms. As technology reshapes every sector, Hellen Ward examines the role of AI in salons – from marketing automation to client communication – and asks where the line lies between efficiency and overreliance (see page 34).

As businesses mature in a more regulated market, many owners are thinking about long-term strategy. Our feature on selling a salon (page 46) explores the realities of a business exit and why protection and planning are essential.

Creativity, however, remains at the heart of the industry. Our SS26 nail trends report (page 54) tracks the evolution of pared-back milky and soap finishes alongside bold, bespoke maximalist designs, while our makeup feature (page 58) explores a return of saturated colour and expressive placement after years of the clean-girl aesthetic.

As standards rise and self-expression flourishes, the salons and clinics that will thrive are those that combine artistry with accountability. We hope this month’s features help you do exactly that.