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From changing learner attitudes to advances in regulation, here’s what’s shaping the industry now

Scottish Government agrees to introduce Non-surgical Procedures Bill

The Scottish Parliament has passed the Non-surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill.

The Bill, passed on March 18, introduces a new framework to regulate non-surgical cosmetic treatments and is expected to come into force in Scotland in September 2027.

Originally introduced on October 8, 2025, The Bill follows a Government consultation which ran from December 2024 to February 2025.

It aims to ensure that procedures such as dermal fillers, microneedling and chemical peels are carried out by appropriately trained practitioners, and within licensed premises that meet hygiene and safety standards.

The Bill will ban certain procedures for under-18s, including dermal fillers and strong chemical peels.

It will also introduce licences for premises used to carry out certain procedures. A list of these is detailed in the Bill and includes ablative laser, chemical peels, dermal microcoring, injectable procedures (excluding tattooing), microneedling 1.5 mm or deeper, IV procedures, licensed procedures with prescribed anaesthetic and licensed procedures on an intimate area (except non-ablative laser hair removal).

Licensed healthcare professionals regulated by UK bodies – including doctors, dentists, nurses, midwives, pharmacists and other allied health professionals – will be permitted to carry out these procedures in approved premises.

Procedures may also be carried out by someone acting under the direction of one of these regulated professionals.

Date announced for TPO ban in the UK

As of September 1, 2025, trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) has been banned for use in nail products made and sold within the EU market, as a result of European Union officials deeming the ingredient as potentially toxic to humans.

It has now been announced that from August 15, 2026, brands can no longer sell or supply new products containing TPO to retailers or distributors in the UK, and by February 14, 2027, all products containing TPO must be removed from store shelves in the UK.

Many brands use TPO as a photoinitiator – a molecule which absorbs light (in this instance, UV or LED) to create a reaction.

This reaction then leads to a photocuring process that solidifies, or cures, the gel polish, in addition to enabling greater colour stability.

One reason TPO was a popular choice as a photoinitiator in gel polish formulations is because it is capable of absorbing light across a wide range of wavelengths, making it compatible with various light sources.

…IN BRIEF

Therapist and mental health advocate Hayley Snishko has unveiled her new website, hayleysnishko.com, a platform bringing together her treatments, training, consultancy services, and industry advocacy in one place. The new site offers a comprehensive overview of her work, making it easier for professionals to access her expertise in mental health-informed practice.

Harrods has introduced Aqua Natural Strip Sugar to its beauty treatment offering, marking a move towards more sustainable hair removal solutions. The sugar-based formulation delivers gentle, effective results while supporting cleaner treatment protocols, reflecting growing demand for ethical, high-performance alternatives in luxury beauty environments.

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa in Newmarket has launched a Whole Spa Hire package. From milestone birthdays and elaborate engagement proposals to corporate hospitality events, private group celebrations, or uninterrupted time with friends, the opportunity has been designed for those seeking privacy, luxury and a bespoke experience.

Hona secured three award wins in March: Best Hair & Nail Company at the Business Growth Wales Awards and Innovation & Technology Business of the Year at the Newport Business Awards. Co-founder Mike Henson also received a Visionary Leadership award, marking continued recognition for the brand’s growth and innovation.

Aqua Sana Forest Spa is introducing a series of new treatments and spa experiences this spring, designed to reflect growing guest demand for personalised skincare and wellness experiences for all ages. The new additions include a teen-friendly facial, skin analysis technology and three new Signature Forest Spa Days featuring treatments from Elemis, Voya and Comfort Zone.

42% of beauty students plan to go self-employed after qualifying

More than four in 10 (42%) beauty students plan to open their own business after qualifying, compared with 34% who aim to secure employment, according to new UK survey data from Business of Beauty.

The findings point to a growing shift towards self-employment, raising questions around how prepared students are for running a business and what this means for the future workforce.

The data also showed a strong pipeline of young talent entering the sector. 70% of respondents were aged 16–18, and 89% said they enrolled in beauty due to a genuine interest in the industry.

More than half (53%) first turn to Google or websites when researching beauty careers, but TikTok (23%) is now a significantly more popular source than Instagram (11%).

More than three quarters (78%) want support and advice from industry professionals when they completed their course.

Most want to work in traditional beauty therapy (25%), followed by spa, hotel and resort positions (17%).

Meanwhile, 16% want to specialise in one service such as nails or waxing, and 14% are looking at advanced aesthetics.

The survey was conducted by Business of Beauty, founded by Jo Harris, beauty business consultant and former general manager of Urban Retreat and London School of Beauty and Makeup.

Developed in collaboration with Habia, the research aims to better understand the motivations of students entering the beauty industry.

Business of Beauty has been created to address a growing gap between education and real-world readiness. It aims to connect employers with emerging talent, while supporting students as they enter industry.

New SIC codes for hair, beauty and spa mark"landmark" moment for UK industry

The UK hair, beauty and spa industry has secured a major milestone with the introduction of new Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes – the first update since 1948 – formally recognising the sector as distinct categories in official data.

Previously grouped under “other personal services” alongside unrelated industries, many felt that the sector lacked accurate representation.

Following years of lobbying by a steering group, the new structure separates hairdressing, beauty treatment and spa services, enabling each to be measured independently.

SIC codes are used by governments and statistical bodies to classify businesses and inform policymaking, funding and economic analysis. Without accurate classification, the industry has struggled with visibility, limiting its ability to advocate for support and investment.

The updated framework introduces group 962, with three subcategories: hairdressing and barbering (9621), beauty treatment (9622), and spa-related activities (9623). This change allows for improved data collection, clearer insights and more targeted policy support.

Millie Kendall, chief executive of the British Beauty Council, which lobbied for the change, said, “SIC codes are really important for any industry because they describe what it does, who works in the industry, what the value of the industry is, and it's how Government and government agencies measure and understand different sectors.”

The reform will also align with international classification systems, marking a significant step forward for global recognition of the sector.

Labour costs revealed as biggest pressure facing beauty businesses

Labour costs are the most-common pressure for UK beauty businesses – particularly minimum wage increases and employer National Insurance changes.

The latest State of the Sector survey results from the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) revealed that many businesses are working hard but struggling to remain profitable as rising operating costs continue to squeeze the sector.

The survey of 423 hair and beauty professionals across the UK also highlighted that apprenticeships are under severe pressure, with 388 businesses saying they are unlikely or definitely not planning to take on apprentices in the next three months.

Meanwhile, price rises are continuing, with 307 businesses expecting to increase prices in the next three months as costs continue to climb.

While most respondents believe their business will survive the next six months, confidence is fragile, with 131 businesses unsure about their short-term outlook.

While the NHBF continues to lobby government for fairer policies on costs and VAT rates, the organisation is also urging businesses to access the support already available.

Committee of Advertising Practice warns over widespread irresponsible ads for liquid BBLs

The Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) has warned that irresponsible online advertising for non-surgical liquid Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs) remains prevalent, with most ads failing to meet UK rules. New monitoring using CAP’s AI-powered system reviewed 928 paid Meta ads between April and December 2025.

By December, only 11.5% complied with advertising standards. Common breaches included time-limited offers, downplaying risks and messaging that exploited body insecurities.

Liquid BBLs, which involve injecting dermal filler into the buttocks, are legal but unregulated in the UK and carry risks such as infection, sepsis and embolism.

CAP contacted 15 advertisers, with some removing or amending ads, while others had ads taken down by Meta. Compliance briefly improved during 2025 but dropped again towards the end of the year.

In contrast, a separate CAP report found improved compliance among overseas cosmetic surgery clinics targeting UK consumers. Of more than 4,000 ads reviewed, 84.2% were compliant following enforcement action.

CAP said the findings highlight the need for responsible advertising of high-risk procedures and supported upcoming Government plans to tighten regulation.

…IN BRIEF

Cannizaro House by Hotel du Vin, Wimbledon, is partnering with local beauty boutique Take Time London to bring wellness treatments to the hotel. The new suite includes a contemporary open salon for nails, lashes and brows, and a private suite for treatments including massage, facials, tanning, and waxing.

Smita Ahluwalia has launched a new Retail Strategy Workshop aimed at helping beauty professionals increase revenue through ethical retail practices. The programme focuses on building confidence in product recommendations, improving client conversion and supporting long-term results, with strategies designed to boost income without relying solely on treatment services.

Gleneagles in Scotland has announced two new spa partnerships for 2026, including a residency with The Aesthetics Club and the introduction of Evidens de Beauté as its official facial brand. Launched in March and April respectively, the collaborations expand the resort’s wellness offering, combining clinical aesthetics, advanced skincare and ritual-led treatments.

Christine Alison Laser & Skin Clinic in Edinburgh has become the first in Scotland to introduce Skynreverse, an advanced skin regeneration treatment targeting concerns including acne scarring, stretch marks and signs of ageing. The treatment works on both surface and deeper skin layers to support collagen production.

Prism Light has partnered with Myndstream to integrate functional music therapy into its Prism Light Pod, introducing 12 new soundscapes designed to enhance relaxation and cellular recovery. Available as an upgrade to Prism Light Pod owners, the 15-minute soundtracks include titles such as Sports Recovery, Weight Loss and Skin Tightening.

…IN BRIEF

Carden Park has unveiled four new luxury suites as part of a £6.5 million hotel transformation. Designed by Palm Interiors, the suites feature open-plan living, dressing areas and spacious bathrooms, with countryside views and high-end finishes, further elevating the resort’s premium accommodation offering.

Hydrafacial has launched its first global brand video campaign, highlighting its signature three-step treatment and post-treatment glow. Launching across the London Underground, social media and nationwide this summer, the campaign aims to boost brand visibility and drive demand for its non-invasive skin treatments.

Searches for exosome treatments have risen 162% year-on-year to 528,000 monthly, according to data from Fresha, highlighting demand for regenerative, natural alternatives to fillers. The software brand suggested clients are shifting towards skin-repair treatments that improve texture and support healing, with exosomes offering subtle, gradual results and reflecting a focus on long-term skin health.

Hotel de France in Jersey has introduced a new offering for retreat hosts, including a flexible Ayush Wellness Retreat Package designed for small group experiences. The initiative combines accommodation, spa access and tailored wellness programmes, making it easier for organisers to create personalised retreats

Clinic Dr Paris, run by Dr Paris Acharya (pictured) has become the latest clinic in the UK to introduce CACI Rejuva Med, a system that combines oxygenation, LED, IPL microcurrent, and ultrasonic infusion of PDRN serum. Located in London’s Marylebone Village, the clinic is a destination for regenerative and longevity-led aesthetics.

Townhouse secures £48m investment and partners with Champneys

Nail salon chain Townhouse is set to bring its services into the spa environment, leveraging Champneys’s century-long reputation across wellness and hospitality.

For Townhouse, this signifies its first entry into the luxury spa category, continuing to expand the company’s global presence.

“We are delighted to partner with Champneys to bring the Townhouse experience to its exceptional spa estate,” said Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse.

“Partnering with a brand that shares such a strong commitment to quality, care, and guest experience feels like a natural fit.”

The announcement comes as Townhouse reaches a valuation of £130 million, after securing £48 million investment since inception.

Over the next decade, the company plans to continue its global franchise momentum and expand its product range, while expanding beyond salons into SaaS licensing for beauty services.

The overall goal is to become a £1 billion global operating platform with more than 2,000 locations.

Townhouse is now opening this next stage of its growth to the public, with a new crowdfunding round.

Red light therapy moves into mainstream with 26% of UK adults now using the technology

Red light therapy is rapidly becoming a core beauty tool, as consumers prioritise visible skin results and science-backed wellness technology.

According to the Bon Charge Global Wellness Tech Trend Report 2026, based on a survey of 7,000 adults, 34% of consumers globally have used or trialled red light therapy, with 86% starting within the past two years.

Skin benefits are driving adoption. Improving skin appearance (36%) and achieving younger-looking skin (28%) are the top motivations, with LED face masks emerging as the most popular format.

In the UK, 26% of adults have used red light therapy, rising among under-35s, who are leading engagement. Notably, women slightly outpace men in usage, reinforcing its relevance for the beauty sector.

Social media is also fuelling growth, with 35% of UK consumers influenced by celebrity or influencer endorsements.

Demand for evidence-led beauty is increasing, with 54% of UK consumers saying they do not trust products without scientific backing.

The findings highlight growing opportunities for salons and spas to integrate tech-led, results-driven treatments.

Government to invest in high street rejuvenation and apprenticeships

The UK Government has unveiled a £1 billion youth employment drive, alongside high-street investment, in a bid to tackle rising youth unemployment and revitalise local communities.

The “New Deal” aims to create 200,000 jobs and reform apprenticeships, as youth unemployment among 16–24-year-olds reaches 16.1% and apprenticeship starts fell by 40% over the past decade.

Measures include a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for employers, expanded Jobs Guarantee schemes, and £2,000 apprenticeship incentives for SMEs, with a target of 50,000 new apprenticeships.

Backed by £2.5 billion overall, the package will deliver up to 500,000 opportunities to earn or learn.

Separately, a £319 million investment under the wider £5 billion “Pride in Place” programme will be put toward turning high streets into mixed-use community hubs, boosting footfall and supporting service-led sectors such as hair and beauty.

Industry leaders welcomed the reforms, highlighting the potential to unlock opportunities for young people while strengthening local economies and high-street businesses.

Skin Rocks Pro opens first permanent facialist training academy in London

Skin Rocks Pro has opened its first permanent facialist training academy in London, creating an education hub for skincare professionals and beauty therapists.

Located in Farringdon, the Skin Rocks Pro Academy will deliver the brand’s Babtac and Cibtac-endorsed professional training in a permanent setting.

The opening followed the creation of Skin Rocks Pro facial protocols in the summer, and the official launch of Skin Rocks Pro in September 2025 via a series of seven training days held nationwide.

Skin Rocks Pro said the space supported its “by facialists, for facialists” mission and was designed as a hands-on training environment aimed at helping skin professionals develop their skills, confidence and business knowledge.

Caroline Hirons, facialist and founder of Skin Rocks Pro, said the opening marked a significant milestone for the brand.

“I started out as a facialist myself, so creating a space to support and champion other skin professionals feels incredibly special,” she added.

…IN BRIEF

Brow Spa was awarded Brand Product of the Year at The Brow Awards 2026. The category aims to recognise innovation and excellence within the brow and beauty industry. The awards were open globally, with entries and representation from 19 different countries, making the win a milestone for the growing British beauty and wellness brand.

Thirns has launched a dedicated e-commerce site, following its partnership with Spa Village Bath at the Gainsborough Bath Spa. The Bath-based botanical skincare brand, founded by Olga Brennand, now offers nationwide UK delivery of its small-batch, spa-tested products, which are designed specifically for midlife skin.

Lyma has announced further US expansion following the first year of its Lyma Laser Pro launch. The British medtech brand reported $48m (£35m) revenue in 2025, with the US now its largest market. New initiatives include a dedicated US platform, concierge service, flexible payments and a retail partnership with department store Bloomingdale’s.

Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel in Puglia, Italy, has reopened for the 2026 season, introducing its first dedicated wellness programme, Respira Puglia. The launch has been accompanied by a reimagined Aqua Spa, new dining concepts and an expanded events calendar, marking a shift towards a more holistic, wellbeing-led guest experience.

Gaia Skincare is celebrating two award wins at the first-ever Vegan Food & Living Magazine Lifestyle Awards, which were launched to recognisie excellence across the vegan lifestyle sector. Gaia secured Best Suncare Protection – Editor’s Choice for its Mineral SPF Moisturiser, and a Silver Award for the Crystal Purifying Mask in the Best Skincare category.

Jurlique set to return to UK salons under Luxury Skincare Brands distribution

Luxury Skincare Brands has signed a deal to be exclusive UK distributor for Australian skincare brand Jurlique.

Known for its “seed-to-skin” philosophy, Jurlique cultivates botanicals on its own biodynamic farm and uses them in performance skincare.

In the UK, Luxury Skincare Brands is set to lead distribution across retail, spa and professional channels.

The focus will be on strengthening brand presence, expanding stockist networks and driving consumer awareness.

Misia Pearce, co-founder of Luxury Skincare Brands, said, “We are delighted to partner with Jurlique, a brand that truly embodies the future of luxury skincare – where efficacy, sustainability and sensorial experience meet.

She added, “This is a powerful addition to our portfolio and aligns perfectly with our vision to bring world-class, results-driven brands to the UK market.”

Anna Klepek, global sales director for Jurlique, said, “We are excited to partner with Luxury Skincare Brands to strengthen our presence in the UK. Their expertise and deep understanding of the premium skincare market make them the ideal partner as we change to a distributor model to be in line with the rest of the EMEA.”

Studex marks 50th anniversary with National Piercing Day campaign

Studex is marking its 50th anniversary by encouraging its piercing partners to host in-store events for National Piercing Day on May 16.

The piercing supplier has launched a campaign to help salons drive footfall and revenue by turning the awareness day into a customer-facing event.

To support businesses, Studex has created a National Piercing Day event toolkit, including social media assets and posters to promote in-salon activity.

In the lead-up to the day, Studex’s head office team and regional trainers will also visit selected partners to deliver goody bags with materials to support their events.

The initiative is designed to help salons promote piercing services, attract new clients and encourage repeat visits via cross-promotion and booking incentives.

Harpar Grace appoints chief executive

Harpar Grace International has appointed Erica Casey as chief executive.

Casey brings over two decades of leadership experience across private equity, healthcare, retail, and consumer sectors.

She is recognised for her tenure as chief executive of Bodyset, where she expanded the brand from 21 to 43 clinics and led a digital transformation.

At Harpar Grace, Casey will drive the strategic, operational, and commercial agenda, with a focus on strengthening performance and positioning the business for long-term growth.

Meanwhile, founder Alana Chalmers will step into the newly created role of executive chair, innovation and impact to focus on brand proposition, advancing Harpar Grace International's work in cancer care initiatives, and embedding its profit-with-purpose mission across the business.

Further strengthening the leadership team, Michal Bartunek has been promoted to chief operating officer, while Tanith Facey becomes head of sales operations.

DIARY DATES

May 8-9

AESTHETIC MEDICINE LONDON

Olympia London

The medical aesthetics show returns with new product launches, and both clinical and business education.

020 7351 0536

aestheticmed.co.uk/am-london

May 11

BIRMINGHAM REGIONAL SUMMIT

Eastside Rooms, Birmingham

The second of Professional Beauty’s new regional summits.

020 7351 0536