+44 20 7405 9999
Quick Guide to Aesthetics Licensing & Special Treatment Licences

The UK aesthetics industry is changing fast. Licensing rules, prescription regulations, and advertising standards are evolving. In Scotland, legislation to formally regulate non-surgical cosmetic treatment is progressing. Practitioners across the UK must stay ahead of compliance requirements.

This guide explains:

  • What is a special treatment licence?
  • Which UK councils require one?
  • What’s changing in Scotland?
  • How do advertising and prescription rules affect aesthetics?

What is a Special Treatment Licence?

Local authorities issue special treatment licences to premises offering certain treatments. These treatments can include:

  • Massage
  • Beauty treatments
  • Electrolysis
  • Skin piercing
  • Microneedling
  • Some laser/IPL procedures
  • Semi-permanent makeup
  • Certain injectable treatments (depending on local rules)

Special treatment premises may be regulated under local legislation. The London Local Authorities Act, which affects many London boroughs. For example:

Further information for other boroughs, including Waltham Forest, Lambeth, Lewisham, Merton, Barking & Dagenham or Hammersmith & Fulham, is available. It is vital to check with your local authority before offering treatments.

How Much Is a Special Treatment Licence?

Fees vary by borough and depend on:

  • Number of treatment rooms
  • Type of procedures offered
  • Whether you are applying or renewing
  • Inspection costs

Most councils publish current fees on their websites.

Do You Need a Licence for Injectables Like Botox and Filler?

Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a prescription-only medicine. While there is currently no single UK-wide aesthetics licence, practitioners must comply with:

  • Local council premises licensing (where applicable)
  • Prescription regulations
  • Advertising rules
  • Insurance requirements
  • Professional standards

Advertising Botox to the public is restricted under guidance from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). Clinics must ensure marketing does not promote prescription-only medicines directly to consumers.

Practitioners must also ensure appropriate prescriber involvement and clinical governance arrangements.

Major Update: Scotland Moves to Regulate Aesthetics

In February 2026, Scotland’s Non-Surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill passed Stage 1 in the Scottish Parliament.

If enacted, it would:

  • Ban cosmetic procedures for under-18s
  • Require skin-piercing procedures (such as Botox and dermal filler) to be carried out in approved premises
  • Require registration with Healthcare Improvement Scotland
  • Introduce stronger oversight of practitioners

The bill received cross-party support and is progressing through Scottish Parliament.

If passed in full, Scotland would become the first UK nation to formally regulate non-surgical cosmetic procedures under a statutory framework.

Special Treatment Licence Legislation: Why Compliance Matters

Failing to obtain the correct licence can result in:

  • Fines
  • Enforcement notices
  • Closure of premises
  • Invalid insurance
  • Reputational damage

Increasingly, councils and insurers expect documented:

  • Infection control procedures
  • Qualifications and competency records
  • First aid training
  • Treatment protocols
  • Risk assessments

This is where structured, accredited training becomes essential.

If you are delivering nationally recognised qualifications (e.g. Ofqual-regulated), you must partner with an approved awarding organisation. For CPD courses, independent accreditation is widely used.

Why CPD Accreditation Is Now Essential

As regulation increases, CPD accreditation helps you:

  • Demonstrate industry standards
  • Meet council and insurer expectations
  • Strengthen governance
  • Increase learner trust
  • Stand out in a competitive market

How Advantage Accreditation Supports Aesthetics Trainers

As an Advantage Approved Centre, you receive:

  • Guidance Through the Accreditation Process
  • Accredited Centre Status
  • Dual-Branded Certificates
  • Online Training Management Portal
  • Ready-to-Deliver Course Materials
  • Ongoing Support

While England has not yet introduced a national aesthetics licence, parliamentary reviews have repeatedly highlighted concerns about patient safety and regulatory gaps. Scotland’s progress suggests wider reform may follow across the UK.

For practitioners, clinics and trainers, the message is clear: Professional standards, documented training, and robust governance are no longer optional.

Advantage Accreditation helps you meet industry expectations while growing your reputation and income. If you’re interested in accrediting your aesthetics courses, contact our team today.

Tweet
Share