Why Researching Your Aesthetics Practitioner Is Essential Before Booking an Appointment

In today’s beauty driven world, aesthetic treatments like Botox and dermal fillers are more accessible than ever. Social media is saturated with before and after photos and “quick fix” transformation videos, making these procedures appear simple and risk-free. But behind every successful aesthetic treatment is a qualified, ethical, and skilled practitioner and choosing the wrong one can lead to more than just cosmetic disappointment.

Here’s why taking the time to research your aesthetics practitioner or clinic is not just important, it’s essential.

1. Your Health and Safety Comes First

Aesthetic procedures, though often non-surgical, are still medical in nature. Incorrect techniques, poor hygiene standards, or the use of counterfeit products can lead to infections, scarring, nerve damage, and even irreversible complications. By researching a practitioner’s qualifications, you’re ensuring they have the right medical background / are trained in anatomy, safety protocols, and managing complications.

2. Not All “Practitioners” Are Legitimate

Unfortunately, the aesthetics industry in the UK is still under-regulated. This means unqualified individuals can perform treatments without adequate training or insurance. Don’t be swayed by Instagram followers or influencer partnerships, always check for verifiable credentials, affiliations with recognised medical boards, and reviews from genuine clients.

3. Tailored Advice, Not Just a Sales Pitch

A good practitioner doesn’t just say “yes” to every request. They’ll take the time to assess your needs, discuss your goals, and provide honest feedback  even if that means advising against a certain treatment. When you choose an ethical, experienced professional, you're more likely to receive personalised care that prioritises your long term well-being over profit.

4. Aesthetic Outcomes Depend on Skill and Artistry

While anyone can learn how to inject filler, delivering natural, balanced results requires more than just technical training. A skilled practitioner has an eye for symmetry, proportion, and facial harmony and knows how to enhance your features rather than distort them. Researching their portfolio, client testimonials, and artistic approach will give you insight into their aesthetic style and whether it aligns with your own.

5. Aftercare and Support Matter

Proper aftercare can significantly impact the results and safety of your treatment. Reputable clinics provide thorough guidance, check-in appointments, and are accessible if anything goes wrong. Always ensure your chosen clinic is committed to follow-up care and patient support.

6. Be Aware of the Latest Regulatory Changes

The aesthetics industry is evolving and recent updates from regulatory bodies are a step in the right direction for client safety.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) recently announced a key regulatory change, effective from June 1, 2025:

All prescribers must conduct mandatory face-to-face consultations before prescribing non-surgical cosmetic medicines, such as anti-wrinkle injections and aesthetic emergency kit items.

This reform is part of a broader push toward tightening industry standards, minimising risk, and ensuring that clients receive proper clinical assessments prior to treatment. This move aims to close the gap on remote prescribing practices that, while convenient, can compromise safety and lead to inappropriate or unsafe treatment plans.

As a client, this is a positive development  but it also means you need to be more aware than ever of your practitioner’s prescribing practices. If a clinic is still offering prescriptions without in-person consultations after this date, it's a red flag that they may not be compliant or ethical.

7. Red Flags to Watch For

• No visible qualifications or licenses

• No consultation before treatment

• Unusually low prices or “too good to be true” offers

• Pressure to book immediately or add on services

• Lack of proper consent or aftercare information

If you encounter any of these, it’s a clear sign to keep looking.

Choosing an aesthetics practitioner is not just a beauty decision, it’s a health decision. Take your time. Ask questions. Read reviews. Book consultations before committing to treatment. A little extra research can save you a lot of regret.

Read more about the latest regulatory changes below:

Read here