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What does the 2025 Spring Statement mean for aesthetic businesses?

On March 26, Chancellor Rachel Reeves shared the Spring Statement, reflecting on the changes made in 2024’s Autumn Budget, and announcing adjustments for the forecasts ahead.

Opening her speech, she said that the decisions made in the October Budget were “non-negotiable”, and that they will bring stability to the economy.

In the 2024 Autumn Budget, the Chancellor presented an increase in minimum wage, a National Insurance freeze for employees and changes to business rates.

But what does the new Spring Statement mean for aesthetic businesses? Here’s what you need to know…

Key points

• Welfare cuts for new claimants: The Government plans to implement welfare cuts aimed at new claimants, with the goal of saving £4.8 billion. This could affect potential employees in the aesthetic sector who rely on certain benefits, potentially influencing their availability or willingness to work.

• Crackdown on tax avoidance and evasion: There are no further tax increases in this statement but an initiative to raise £1 billion through stricter enforcement against tax avoidance and evasion has been announced. Clinic owners should ensure their tax affairs are in order to avoid penalties, as small businesses may be scrutinised more closely.

• No further tax increases announced: There are no additional tax increases at this time which will allow business owners to plan their finances without the concern of further increased tax burdens.

• Economic growth and inflation forecasts: The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has forecasted steady GDP growth and a reduction in net debt starting from 2026-27. Additionally, inflation is projected at 3.2% for this year, which is higher than previously expected. These economic indicators could influence consumer spending patterns and potentially impact revenue.

Level 5 apprenticeship standard approved for aesthetic practitioners

A new apprenticeship standard has been approved to provide a government-backed, fully funded route for professionals to gain competency in advanced skin rejuvenation procedures.

Developed in response to ongoing discussions regarding potential licensing and regulation of aesthetic treatments, the apprenticeship standard is designed to ensure professional competency in advanced non-surgical aesthetic procedures, covering a range of evidence-based techniques, including:

The apprenticeship standard is designed to ensure professional competency in advanced non-surgical aesthetic procedures, covering a range of evidence-based techniques, including:

• Superficial and medium-depth chemical peels

• Microneedling and microinjury procedures

• Light-based skin rejuvenation treatments

• Mesotherapy involving intradermal administration

• Combination therapy approaches for skin health optimisation

• Advanced benign lesion removal

Additionally, the curriculum incorporates critical professional competencies:

• Advanced infection control and patient safety protocols

• Emergency planning and complication management

• Compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks

• Evidence-based consultation and treatment planning

• In-depth skin analysis and classification methodologies

• Patient welfare and risk assessment strategies

• Ethical practice and business management considerations

The Level 5 apprenticeship is tailored for professionals with relevant foundational qualifications in aesthetic or beauty therapy, including a Level 3 Regulated Beauty Therapy qualification (or equivalent), a Level 3 Anatomy and Physiology qualification, completion of an Advanced Beauty Therapy or Holistic Therapy apprenticeship standard or an NVQ/SVQ qualifications in beauty or massage therapy.

Gen Z move away from reconstructive surgery

A new study conducted by the European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ESPRAS) has revealed a significant shift in career preferences among Generation Z surgeons, with many opting for private aesthetic medicine over reconstructive surgery.

Gen Z, defined as those born between 1997 and 2012, has been instrumental in modernising surgical practices through digital innovation, including virtual reality simulations and AI-driven diagnostics.

However, the study found that Gen Z surgeons are prioritising work-life balance, reduced working hours and less hierarchical mentorship structures.

This preference is driving them away from traditional reconstructive roles, which often demand long, unpredictable hours in hospital settings, and toward the more lucrative and flexible field of aesthetic medicine.

BCAM welcomes new trustees

The British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has announced the appointment of three new trustees to its board. Dr Haidar Hassan, Dr Ahmed El Houssieny and Dr Deepa Panchalingam will help to achieve the college’s charitable and educational aims.

“I’m honoured to join BCAM as a trustee and contribute to its mission of advancing aesthetic and regenerative medicine,” said Dr Hassan. “I am particularly passionate about strengthening BCAM’s role in clinical and evidence-based research, as well as fostering collaborations between academia and professional bodies. By building stronger partnerships, we can enhance education, improve regulatory standards, and ensure the safe and effective delivery of treatments for patients.”

“I look forward to working with the team to raise the standards of safety and ethical decision-making within our industry,” commented Dr El Houssieny. “I believe strongly in BCAM’s ethos of putting patient care at its heart and will strive to bring their vision to the forefront of our industry.”

“I am looking forward to contributing to the organisation’s continued success, helping shape the future of our profession and working together to raise the bar for patient care and excellence in aesthetic medicine,” added Dr Panchalingam.

Research reveals “improving confidence” as biggest motivations for skin treatments

A study carried out by Cynosure Lutronic has revealed that the number one reason people seek aesthetic treatments is confidence. A total of 61% of consumers aged 25-64 who took part in the research cited “improving confidence” as their main motivation for undergoing aesthetic treatments.

The study found that younger age groups (25-34) are leading the charge in skin health awareness, with many already undergoing preventative treatments. Acne remains a major concern for this group, with 41% of 25-34-year-olds expressing distress over breakouts – more than double the rate of older respondents.

For men, the focus remains on “medical” skin concerns like acne, eczema, and rosacea, while women prioritise anti-ageing treatments, such as reducing wrinkles, sagging skin, and dark circles. One in five men admitted to using makeup to improve their appearance and confidence.

One in four participants admitted their skin concerns negatively impacted their mental health and social life, and 90% reported suffering from at least one skin concern, with fine lines, dark circles, and scarring topping the list.

“Internal bra surgery” sees a surge in interest across the UK

The term “internal bra surgery” has seen a significant surge in interest across the UK, with a notable increase in Google searches over the past year.

Recent statistics from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) indicate that in 2023, breast reduction procedures were among the top five surgical choices for women in the UK, with 3,395 operations performed.

This trend suggests a shift towards more natural aesthetics, with many individuals opting for smaller, more proportionate breast sizes. Internal bra surgery, often referred to as an “internal bra lift” is a technique designed to provide enhanced support to the breast tissue.

This procedure involves the insertion of a supportive mesh or sling beneath the skin to act as an internal “scaffold”, aiming to maintain the breasts’ lifted position over time.

Blackheads revealed as the UK’s most googled skincare concern

Blackhead removal has been revealed as the UK’s most searched skincare question, among topics like eye bags and cellulite.

The data, compiled by Fat Cow Skincare using search analytics platform Semrush, highlights the most common concerns Brits have about their skin.

Among the top five most searched skincare queries, treatments for eye bags, acne scars, general spots, and dark circles ranked high, reflecting the persistent struggles many individuals face with their skin.

Leading the way, “How to get rid of blackheads?” saw 9,900 searches per month, showing widespread frustration with clogged pores and the demand for effective cleansing solutions. Eye bags rank second with 8,100 searches, indicating a strong interest in treatments to reduce puffiness and signs of fatigue.

Acne scars and spots tie at 6,600 searches each, emphasising the continued concern over breakouts and post-inflammatory marks.

Dark circles, with 5,400 searches, further emphasises how the appearance of the undereye area is affecting people.

Hamilton Fraser launches guide on celebrating women in aesthetics

Aesthetic insurance provider Hamilton Fraser has launched a guide exploring all the ways the aesthetics industry can support women.

The guide estimates that 78% of practitioners in the UK’s aesthetics sector are female, a number that is even higher when it comes to the beauty and wellbeing side of the market (87%).

With the sector reaching a market value of £3.2 billion with an 8.4% annual growth rate (ONS Healthcare Services Index, 2024), women are leading the way, building successful businesses and claiming their place as innovators in the field.

According to research, women are generally less likely to openly discuss or “shout about” their successes compared to men, often due to societal expectations of modesty and a fear of being perceived as arrogant if they self-promote too much; this can lead to underplaying their achievements and potentially hindering career advancement opportunities.

High-street clinic chain receives funding for expansion

High street chain of aesthetic treatment clinics, EverySkin, has announced that it has secured funding to open new outlets in London as part of a UK-wide expansion.

Significant funding has come from family investment office firm, Middleton Enterprises, which will help to ensure the business continues its trajectory, financing the opening of additional outlets in London, in line with longer-term UK-wide expansion plans.

Founded in 2021, EverySkin is a fast-growing company with seven sites across London, along with a concession partnership with Space NK.

New facial aesthetics event at Royal Society of Medicine

Consultant orthodontist Mr Farhad Naini is organising an event at the Royal Society of Medicine on September 18, hosted by the Section of Odontology, called “Facial aesthetics: A holistic approach”.

The meeting will bring together an internationally renowned faculty of experts across dental, medical, surgical, and mental health disciplines to explore the latest advancements in facial aesthetic analysis and treatment.

Key topics will include ethical principles and professional responsibilities in aesthetic medicine, comprehensive facial soft tissue evaluation at rest and in motion, safe and effective applications of botulinum toxin A and soft tissue fillers and psychosocial dimensions of aesthetics, including the identification and management of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

With an extensive portfolio of high-calibre books including Facial Aesthetics: Concepts and Clinical Diagnosis, book chapters, and peer-reviewed research in leading journals, Mr Naini has made remarkable contributions to the field.

DermaFocus and InMode announce strategic partnership to distribute Purasomes

DermaFocus has announced a strategic partnership with InMode, marking a significant step forward in expanding the distribution of Purasomes, an exosome and growth-factor-based range for skin and hair regeneration.

The products include:

• Purasomes NC150+ Skin Nutri Complex for tired and aged skin

• Purasomes SGC100+ Skin Glow Complex for dull, damaged and hyperpigmented skin

• Purasomes HSC50+ Hair & Scalp Complex for thin and damaged hair

• Purasomes XCell – a complementary sublingual supplement that supports gut health and immune strength, as well as skin and hair quality.

Through this partnership, InMode will integrate Purasomes into its portfolio of innovative energy-based aesthetic solutions, which include the Morpheus8 and Fractora radiofrequency microneedling devices, the Forma RF, the Lumecca IPL technology and the InMode Allure. The regenerative properties of the Purasomes range will complement the results of InMode’s energy-based treatments, providing practitioners with a powerful tool to optimise patient outcomes.

PhilArt is now PolyPhil

Croma-Pharma has announced that its range of injectable polynucleotides “PhilArt” is rebranding to better reflect the products’ attributes and to position them for global market expansion. PolyPhil succeeds the well-established PhilArt range, offering a unique, effective portfolio of injectable polynucleotides known for safety, efficacy, and cutting-edge technology. This change will enhance the products’ recognition across international markets, reinforcing Croma’s commitment to providing pioneering and effective treatments.