NEWS AND ANALYSIS

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How will the 2025 Autumn Budget impact aesthetic professionals?

The 2025 Autumn Budget has revealed new tax, National Insurance and wage measures that could impact aesthetic professionals and clinic owners.

The budget outlines the UK Government’s plan for the next year, summarising the tax, spending and economic measures. For aesthetic professionals the budget directly sets out changes that can affect pricing, profit margins, staffing costs, client spending habits and overall business planning for the year ahead.

The Autumn Budget 2025 confirmed that income tax and National Insurance thresholds will remain frozen until the end of the 2030/31 financial year (three years longer than initially planned).

For aesthetic professionals this essentially means that as wages rise with inflation, more employees will fall into the higher tax brackets and their take home pay will be lower.

For business owners this could mean reviewing payroll costs, which can be challenging for clinics with tight operating margins.

From April 2026, the National Minimum Wage for employees over 21 will rise from £12.21 to £12.71 per hour. For 18-20-year-olds the minimum wage will rise to £10.85 per hour (up from £10). For 16-17-year-olds and apprentices the minimum wage will increase to £8 per hour (up from £7.55).

The Budget introduces a tax on salary-sacrificed pension contributions above £2,000 from April 2029. Many businesses use salary-sacrifice schemes as a way to incentivise staff while saving on National Insurance contributions. The new tax reduces the financial benefit of these arrangements for employees and may alter how employers structure compensation packages. In addition, the dividend tax will rise by 2%, which can affect owner-operators who draw profits from their businesses in this way. Combined with the frozen income and National Insurance thresholds, these measures increase the financial pressure on small business owners in the sector.

The Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts UK inflation at 3.5% for 2025, slightly higher than earlier predictions. For beauty businesses, rising inflation alongside wage increases and tax adjustments may lead to higher operating costs, from utilities and rent to products and professional insurance.

New GLP-1 pill could be a game changer for weight loss medications

A new daily GLP-1 pill has shown strong results in a recent clinical trial, with patients on the highest dose losing on average 9.6% of their body weight.

The pill, orforglipron, is produced by US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly, the brand behind popular weight loss medication Mounjaro.

Orforglipron is a daily tablet, predicted to be a game changer, as a more convenient and affordable alternative to the current weight loss medications on the market.

The phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial spanned across 136 sites in 10 countries, across 72 weeks. A total of 1,444 participants were randomly assigned to receive either 6mg, 12 mg, 36mg of orforglipron, or a placebo. The clinical trial found that in participants who were obese, overweight, and had type 2 diabetes, a reduction in body weight was demonstrated when orforglipron was taken once daily in combination with lifestyle modification, in comparison to the placebo.Throughout the 72-week study, all prespecified weight and cardiometabolic measures significantly improved with orforglipron.

On average, patients who took 6mg of orfgorglipron daily for 72 weeks lost 5.1% of their baseline body weight. Patients who trialled 12mg lost on average 7% of their baseline body weight.

The highest dosage, of 36mg was found to be most successful, with patients losing on average 9.6% of their body weight. Patients who consumed the placebo tablet only lost 2.5% of their body weight on average.

According to Eli Lilly, they plan to submit orforglipron for regulatory review to treat obesity in 2025, and for type 2 diabetes in 2026. It has been selected for the US FDA Commissioner’s National Priority Review Voucher pilot program, which means it is likely that a regulatory decision will be made in the first half of 2026.

Sculptra gains EU MDR certification for body indications including the buttox

Sculptra, a poly-L-lactic acid injectable biostimulator, has received European Union Medical Device Regulation certification for expanded aesthetic use on the body.

Previously only indicated for facial treatment in the EU, the product is now approved for four additional anatomical areas: the gluteal region, posterior thighs, décolletage, and upper arms.

The expanded approval follows clinical studies showing Sculptra can be used to address skin-quality changes, including the appearance of cellulite, as well as reduced firmness, soft-tissue volume, and contour irregularities associated with ageing.

“The certification of Sculptra for body indications in the EU marks an exciting evolution in injectable aesthetics,” says Galderma CEO Flemming Ørnskov. “With these new body indications extending Sculptra’s trusted profile beyond the face, we are empowering practitioners to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results across broader treatment areas, reinforcing Galderma’s commitment to innovation and holistic patient care.”

Nearly 5% of the Scottish population are using private weight-loss medication

A surge in demand for GLP-1 weight-loss medications has led to an estimated 300,000 people in Scotland now accessing weight-loss drugs through private providers, according to recent public-health reports.

In Scotland, there are limited options for accessing weight-loss medications through public healthcare. Only two of Scotland’s 14 regional health boards currently offer GLP-1 drugs, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro.

Public health minister Jenni Minto has confirmed that two more health boards are expected to begin prescribing GLP-1 medications soon, with another five boards working towards it.

Next year, 5,000 people from deprived areas in Scotland will be offered free weight-loss injections as part of government-funded research.

The study will look into how weight loss medications improve patients’ quality of life, and test how weightloss medication can be delivered fairly through the NHS. If successful, the research could lead to a wider rollout of the injections throughout the country.

Illicit weight-loss injection factory dismantled by UK regulator

In a major crackdown, the MHRA has dismantled the UK’s first illicit production facility for weight-loss medicine – and the largest single seizure of trafficked weight-loss medicines.

The raid targeted a warehouse on the outskirts of Northampton. Inside, investigators discovered thousands of empty pens for weight-loss injections, raw chemical ingredients, and more than 2,000 unlicensed pens pre-filled with retatrutide and tirzepatide. The value of the finished products is estimated at more than a quarter of a million pounds.

MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit also seized sophisticated packaging and manufacturing equipment, and around £20,000 in cash thought to be linked to medicine trafficking. The site is understood to have been used for large-scale manufacture, packaging and distribution of unlicensed and potentially dangerous weight-loss products.

Pharmacist suspended following BBC investigation into illegal botulinum toxin supply

A BBC undercover investigation has revealed illegal prescribing of boutlinum toxin by a UK pharmacist, leading to an 18-month suspension.

Cornelius Agoye, has been suspended from practice for 18 months after the investigation revealed he supplied botulinum toxin to a researcher posing as a beauty therapist without conducting the required patient assessments.

The General Pharmaceutical Council has imposed an interim suspension while a full fitnessto-practise investigation is ongoing.

Wolverhampton launches safety standard scheme ahead of national licensing rollout

Wolverhampton Council has introduced an initiative to improve standards in non-surgical cosmetic treatments Businesses offering aesthetic procedures such as botulinum toxin, dermal fillers and chemical peels are being urged to sign up for a new voluntary safety standard scheme launched by City of Wolverhampton Council.

The scheme, believed to be the first council-run initiative of its kind in the UK, is designed to raise standards within the beauty and aesthetics industry and provide greater reassurance for clients seeking non-surgical cosmetic treatments.

Under the new scheme, environmental health officers will carry out inspections at participating businesses to assess key safety and hygiene standards.

Businesses that meet the required criteria will receive an official certificate of compliance and be added to a public online register so that clients can identify verified, safe providers.

MHRA-led study reveals major inconsistencies in global microbiome research

An international study led by the MHRA has revealed significant variability in how laboratories analyse gut microbiome samples. 23 laboratories from 11 countries across four continents were asked to use the World Health Organization International Reference Reagents – containing DNA of known bacterial compositions – to determine whether the methodologies were suitable.

The study found that species identification varied from 63% to 100% accuracy across different methods. False positive rates ranged from 0% to 41%, meaning some labs incorrectly identified bacteria that weren’t present in the sample. Sample diversity estimates varied considerably, with labs identifying as few as 12 or as many as 185 different bacterial species in the same sample. As a result of this work, the MHRA and international collaborators have established Minimum Quality Criteria for four key reporting measures in microbiome analysis.

Treatment with isotretinoin for patients under 18 must be approved by two prescribers, under new MHRA rules

New measures have been introduced to strengthen the safe use of the acne drug isotretinoin for patients. While isotretinoin has helped many patients with acne, improving their skin and their overall wellbeing, patients and members of the public have raised concerns about suspected psychiatric and sexual side effects.

For patients aged 12 to 18 years old, a second healthcare professional, in addition to a specialist in dermatology, must assess the patient and determine whether isotretinoin is an appropriate treatment. Patients will receive more detailed information about the potential risks and benefits, and will have in-person assessments of their mental and sexual health before starting treatment with isotretinoin. They will also be monitored for side effects, and new resources for professionals have been developed to support monitoring patients.

ASA bans LED face mask adverts over acne and rosacea treatment claims

The UK’s advertising regulator has ruled against four brands for breaching CAP Code rules by claiming their LED face masks could treat acne and rosacea.

The ASA has banned adverts from Beautaholics, Luyors Retail, Project E Beauty and Silk’n after ruling that all four companies made unauthorised medical claims about the capabilities of their LED face masks.

The rulings, published on November 5, 2025, form part of a wider ASA investigation into LED mask advertising in the UK, identified through the regulator’s AI-powered Active Ad Monitoring system, which scans online ads for potential rule breaches.

In each case, the ASA found that the companies’ adverts suggested their devices could treat or prevent acne and rosacea – both recognised as medical conditions under UK regulation.

Such claims can only be made for licensed medicinal products or registered medical devices authorised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Global beauty report reveals the world’s most searched aesthetic treatments

Data analysed by Fresha has revealed 2025’s most commonly searched aesthetic treatments.The analysis compared search trends across the UK, US, UAE, and Australia.

Unsurprisingly, botulinum toxin continues to top the list, with 1.5 million monthly searches in the UK.

Following the ‘botox boom’, polynucleotide injections are growing in popularity, with 19,000 monthly searches in the UK. Thread lifts followed closely with 17,000 monthly searches solely in the UK. Global searches for polynucleotide injections have increased by 188%, while searches for thread lifts are up by 142%. The analysis also found that in the UK, there were 25,000 monthly searches for IV drips – following a similar trend globally with 82,000 monthly searches in the US, and 22,000 in the UAE. Patients are no longer just concerned about how they look; health and wellness are at the forefront of patients’ minds.

In the age of natural-looking enhancements, aesthetic treatments such as hyaluronic acid fillers are in high demand. In the UK, there were 15,000 monthly searches for hyaluronic acid fillers, and 25,000 in the US. This trend indicates the shift away from the ‘overdone’ look, with patients opting for treatments that can enhance their natural features.

Hair transplants were among the most-searched treatments this year, with 237,000 monthly searches in the UK alone. The reduction in stigma and advancements in technology have contributed to the procedure’s growing popularity.

Investigation exposes dangers of illegal teeth-whitening trading

A recent BBC investigation has exposed an extensive trade of illegal teeth-whitening treatments.

It uncovered unregulated practitioners administering high-strength bleaching agents in unregulated environments, using unregulated products.. Laboratory analysis of the teeth whitening treatments found that the products contained up to 53% hydrogen peroxide, nearly nine times the legal professional limit. Investigators acquired these teeth whitening gels from social media sellers and unlicensed beauticians, with some beauticians offering fraudulent qualifications, and “training courses” delivered via WhatsApp. The JCCP has advised cosmetic and dental professionals to educate patients about the dangers of unregulated treatments, reinforcing the importance of only seeking whitening services from qualified dental practitioners registered with the GDC.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Prof David Sines CBE set to Retire as JCCP Executive Chair

After almost a decade at the helm, Professor David Sines CBE has announced he will step down as Independent Executive Chair of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) when his second term ends in February 2026.

Anglo Arab Trading achieves six-figure monthly turnover within months of UAE launch

Anglo Arab Trading has achieved a six-figure monthly turnover, marking an impressive rise for the newcomer in the UAE’s fast-growing medical aesthetics and skincare sector. Securing leading clients including Health-Plus, alongside strategic brand partnerships with global innovators such asThe Skin Diary.

ACRE officially appointed distribution partner for Merz Aesthetics brands

ACRE has been officially appointed as a UK and Ireland distribution partner for Merz Aesthetics, further strengthening their long-standing commitment to providing high-quality aesthetic solutions.

Galderma receives approval of Restylane Lyft for the chin

Galderma has received US FDA approval of Restylane Lyft with Lidocaine for augmentation of the chin region. The approval is based on results showing the safety and effectiveness of the product in enhancing the chin profile. Restylane Lyft is the only hyaluronic acid (HA) injectable approved to treat the midface, facial folds and wrinkles, back of hands and the chin, with consistent results across diverse patient types.

UltraClear Laser exclusively partners with Bella Vou Clinic

UltraClear laser has landed in the UK. UltraClear uses advanced cold fibre technology to deliver ultra-precise pulses of energy that renews skin at a cellular level, lifting pigmentation, softening fine lines, blurring acne scars, and refining texture, while keeping recovery to a minimum.

Mo Harb joins Laboratoires Fillmed UK’s training faculty

Mo Harb has joined the Fillmed training faculty. With extensive experience in medical aesthetics and a passion for teaching, Mo brings a wealth of knowledge in advanced injection techniques, facial anatomy, and regenerative skin treatments. .

Jo Neal joins Crown Aesthetics as marketing manager for the UK & Ireland

Jo Neal brings over 10 years’ experience in aesthetics having previously held roles at Galderma and Sinclair. “It’s an exciting time to be joining Crown with the recent acquisition of Revance. We have a well-established team in the UK and Ireland who have achieved great success, and I hope to continue to build on that.”

Eden Aesthetics announces exclusive UK distribution of Marini SkinSolution

Eden Aesthetics Distribution has announced its official takeover of UK distribution for the skincare brand formerly known as Jan Marini Skin Research, now rebranded as Marini SkinSolutions. Delivering results-driven professional ranges to the aesthetics industry.

BTL EXOMIND publishes a new clinical paper on ExoTMS technology

BTL has published a peer-reviewed clinical study on ExoTMS technology, highlighting significant improvements in mental well-being following treatment. The clinical trial evaluated the effects of ExoTMS across 33 adult participants with a range of baseline well-being and reported consistent improvements in psychological health, comfort, and overall satisfaction.

W-Wellness secures strategic funding after strong growth

Since launching in February 2024, the female-founded platform has achieved over 1,300% year-on-year revenue growth, 26% average monthly revenue increase, an 8,300% surge in subscriptions, and rapidly rising demand for its qualified nutritionist consultations. W-Wellness has also successfully completed its latest funding round, which includes strategic investment from dmg ventures, the venture capital arm of Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT).

Acquisition Aesthetics launches new training programme

Acquisition Aesthetics has launched a new programme. Acquisition Elite is an 18-month intensive programme designed for practitioners who would like to evolve from advanced injectors into educators. The programme includes a two-day cadaveric dissection course at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, certification as a reputable trainer and a core of theoretical modules.

BCAM announces new ambassador

BCAM has appointed Professor Sebastian Cotofana as an ambassador. Professor Cotofana is internationally regarded for his contributions to anatomical research and clinical education. He is a dual PhD graduate in medical sciences and anatomy, and his work aims to define safer, more precise approaches to aesthetic procedures.