How to become an aesthetics practitioner in the UK
The aesthetics industry has experienced remarkable growth and increased popularity in recent years, especially in the United Kingdom. A recent report states that the UK aesthetics market was worth £2.75 billion in 2018, and is projected to grow further. This burgeoning sector offers a promising and fulfilling career path for a wide range of individuals, be it school-leavers or those seeking a career change.
In this blog, we delve into training, qualifications and ultimately answer the question: "How to become an aesthetic practitioner UK"
Why choose aesthetics as a career?
The aesthetics industry isn't just about enhancing physical appearances; it's a holistic approach to wellness that combines science and artistry. The growing demand for non-invasive cosmetic treatments reflects a societal shift towards prioritising self-care and confidence. Becoming an aesthetics practitioner allows you to be part of this transformative journey for your clients.
What does an aesthetic practitioner do?
Aesthetic practitioners (sometimes known as cosmetic practitioners) are professionals who specialises in non-surgical aesthetic treatments such as dermal fillers, micro-needling, and botulinum toxin injections. With an ever-growing demand for minimally invasive treatments that enhance people's physical appearance and self-esteem, aesthetics practitioners cater to this demand through their specialised services.
What is aesthetic medicine?
Aesthetic medicine encompasses a variety of non-invasive treatments focused on improving a person's appearance without the need for surgery. It incorporates several disciplines, including dermatology, cosmetic surgery, and medical aesthetics. The primary goal is to enhance one's appearance, boost self-confidence, and promote overall well-being.
Training and qualifications to become an aesthetics practitioner in the UK
When it comes to learning how to start your career in aesthetics, it can prove quite difficult. A simple Google search will give you a multitude of different answers, most likely leaving you even more confused than you were before.
This post is intended to clear up the uncertainty once and for all, and to begin, it's crucial to make an important distinction between two roles - an aesthetics practitioner (otherwise known as a non-medical aesthetic practitioner) and an aesthetic nurse.
On the one hand, we have aesthetics nurses who are registered medical professionals with experience working in hospital settings or similar. They will have clinical experience, be registered with the NMC, and most likely hold a bachelors degree in nursing. People who fall into this camp will be on a different trajectory to those who are starting from scratch, and as such their path into aesthetics will be somewhat streamlined. For a complete guide on how to make the career leap from being a nurse to an aesthetics nurse, be sure to check out this blog. (Sachin - please link this blog when made live)
Conversely, we have people with no experience whatsoever, perhaps those who have just left college, and are looking to take the very first step into an aesthetics career. And somewhere in the middle, we have the people who enter aesthetics from a similar industry. For example many beauty therapists decide to build upon their experience in skincare treatments (such as chemical peels and other more advanced treatments for healthy skin) and choose to expand their skill set into the field of aesthetic procedures.
But don't be put off if you can't utilise any previous knowledge or experience when starting your aesthetics journey. The reality is that most aesthetic practitioners are not former healthcare professionals and there are plenty of courses available that aim to initiate the complete beginners.
Starting from zero, become a non-medical aesthetic practitioner
For those starting at square one, the first and foremost thing they should do is seek out a reputable and accredited aesthetics training provider. Becoming an aesthetics practitioner in the UK requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training.
It's crucial to choose the right training provider. A quick search will reveal hundreds of different aesthetic training courses, all offering varying levels of certification and experience.
The best place to start is by finding accredited aesthetic courses that are recognised by the relevant professional bodies.
Here at Moon Aesthetics Academy all of our courses and teaching methods are accredited by CPD, an official body that acknowledges and endorses various courses including those in the aesthetics industry.
Once you've found a training provider that's passed your due diligence checks, it's simply a case of picking the course you want to start with and enrolling.
Popular courses include:
- Lip filler
- Botox and dermal fillers
- Vitamin injections
- Profhilo
- Non-surgical rhinoplasty
- Fat dissolving injections
- Advanced treatments
- Microdermabrasion treatments
- Laser hair removal
Some training providers will also offer combined training courses that allow you to study multiple modules alongside each other. This is a great way to gain a fuller foundation knowledge of being a non medical aesthetic practitioner and will allow you to offer a wider range of treatments once fully qualified.
Getting insured
Once you've completed your training and are fully certified, obtaining appropriate insurance is the next vital step before you begin practising as an aesthetics practitioner. Insurance is essential as it provides protection against potential claims of malpractice, negligence, or injury caused to a patient during treatment. It provides a safety net for both the practitioner and the patient, ensuring that any unforeseen complications will be handled professionally and without causing financial strain or damage to your reputation.
In the UK, there are several reliable insurance providers for aesthetics practitioners. These insurers understand the unique risks associated with the aesthetic industry and provide tailored coverage to match. Some of the most reputable providers include Hamilton Fraser, Cosmetic Insure, and Enhance Insurance, among others. It's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of each insurance policy and select the one that best fits your specific needs and services.
Seek employment or start your own practice
Once you have completed your training and secured appropriate insurance coverage, it's time to decide whether you want to seek employment at an established aesthetics clinic or start your own practice. Both options have their advantages; working for someone else provides stability and mentorship opportunities, while starting your own business offers more autonomy and potential for growth. Whichever path you choose, always remember to prioritise patient safety and ethical practice.
A quick note on CPD
You'd be forgiven for thinking that once you're qualified, insured and working at a practice or running your own, then it's simply a case of getting a steady flow of happy clients, but that's not the case.
The aesthetics industry is fast moving and ever-changing, meaning it is absolutely essential for you to stay up to date with the latest developments, changes in legislation, advanced techniques and best practices. Like we said at the beginning, the aesthetics industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK, but with exponential growth comes fierce competition. In a congested economic space, one thing that will always set you apart and keep you ahead of your competitors is an investment in Continuous Professional Development, or CPD as it's known.
CPD is essentially ongoing education that ensures aesthetic practitioners are up to date with the latest techniques, legal and ethical standards, and customer service skills. It's an investment in yourself and your business that will ensure you can continue to provide top-quality services and stay at the forefront of the industry.
Founded in 1996, the CPD Certification Service operates as an autonomous accreditation centre that spans various sectors, disciplines, and training establishments. Collaborating with training providers, professional bodies, academic institutions, and corporate organisations, the centre ensures the provision of high-quality training that complies with universally recognized standards. The CPD Certification Service accredits a wide range of learning opportunities, including training courses, events, e-learning, conferences, workshops, and seminars, to enhance specific learning needs.
As a non medical aesthetics practitioner, investing in CPD is an essential step to a successful and fulfilling career. With continuous learning, you can expand your knowledge and skills, stay up-to-date on industry advancements, and ultimately provide the best possible care for your clients. So don't just stop at getting qualified – keep pushing yourself to grow and improve as a practitioner with CPD opportunities. lf to excel and you'll see the rewards in your career and client satisfaction.
FAQ
Q: What is a Level 7 Diploma and do I need one?
A Level 7 Diploma is an advanced professional qualification in aesthetic medicine awarded by Ofqual-recognised awarding bodies in the UK. While not a legal requirement, obtaining a Level 7 Diploma can significantly enhance your credibility as an aesthetics practitioner.
Q: What is the difference between an aesthetic practitioner and an aesthetic nurse?
An aesthetic practitioner may have a background in medicine, nursing or dentistry, whereas an aesthetic nurse is specifically a registered nurse who has undergone training in aesthetic treatments.
Q: How long does it take to become an aesthetics practitioner?
The time it takes to become an aesthetics practitioner depends on your prior qualifications and the specific training courses you choose. Generally, it can take between a few months to a couple of years, including obtaining a medical degree, completing aesthetics training courses, and gaining practical experience.
Conclusion
In summary, becoming an aesthetics practitioner in the UK is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice, offering a unique blend of medical knowledge, technical expertise, and artistic skills. By gaining the necessary qualifications, insurance and hands-on experience, aspiring practitioners can contribute to the booming aesthetics industry and help individuals enhance their appearance and self-confidence.
Remember to always prioritise patient safety, stay up-to-date with industry developments through CPD, and continuously strive to improve your skills and knowledge. With determination and hard work, you can build a successful career in the thriving aesthetics industry.
Start learning with Moon Aesthetics Academy
If you're curious about entering the world of aesthetic medicine and want to take the next step, get in touch with Moon Aesthetics.
Our professional aesthetics training courses are designed to empower you in taking the first step to kickstart your new career. They are suitable for you if you are a qualified medical professional or an aesthetics novice.
At our highly regarded clinic, you'll receive guidance from the most qualified and experienced trainers in the industry, giving you the confidence to embark on your own business venture or secure a position at a spa or salon. Unlike other training providers, we ensure a low student-instructor ratio, enabling us to provide you with the one-on-one attention and guidance you need to become an effective practitioner.
For more information on our accredited aesthetic training courses and CPD opportunities, contact Moon Aesthetics Academy today!
