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New Laws Require CQC Registration for High-Risk Aesthetic Procedures

The UK Government has announced tough new plans to regulate the fast-growing, but largely unregulated, aesthetics and cosmetic procedures sector. These long-awaited measures are designed to protect the public from unsafe treatments, rogue operators, and botched procedures — and mark a turning point for the industry.

At HLTH Group, we specialise in helping aesthetic and cosmetic providers navigate the regulatory landscape — from CQC registration and inspection readiness to policy development, clinical governance, and staff training. With a team that includes former CQC inspectors and healthcare compliance experts, we are uniquely placed to support your clinic through this period of rapid regulatory change.

A New Era of Regulation for Aesthetics Providers

Under the government’s planned crackdown:

  • Only qualified healthcare professionals will be permitted to perform high-risk procedures such as non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs).

  • These procedures must be carried out in CQC-registered clinics by trained professionals working within safe, clinically governed environments.

  • Lower-risk treatments like Botox and dermal fillers will soon be subject to strict local authority licensing, with new requirements for insurance, training, and safety standards.

  • Additional safeguards are expected to protect under-18s from dangerous social media-driven beauty trends.

  • Providers who do not comply with the new rules may face CQC enforcement action and financial penalties.

These changes follow widespread concern over unqualified individuals carrying out invasive treatments in unsafe settings — including homes, hotels, and pop-up clinics. The human and financial costs have been substantial, with the NHS often left to pick up the pieces after complications.

What This Means for Your Clinic

If you offer aesthetic procedures — whether medical, cosmetic, or hybrid — you are now operating in a sector facing unprecedented regulatory scrutiny.

Being registered with the CQC and delivering care that meets the fundamental standards of quality and safety is no longer optional for many services — particularly those offering high-risk procedures. Even providers offering non-surgical treatments must now prepare for a future in which licensing, regulation, and compliance are the norm.

How HLTH Group Can Support You

HLTH Group is the UK’s leading provider of healthcare compliance support — and we have extensive experience working with aesthetic and cosmetic clinics. We can help you:

  • Assess whether CQC registration is required for your service

  • Complete and submit your CQC registration application, ensuring all information and evidence is aligned to current expectations

  • Prepare for your CQC inspection, including mock inspections by former inspectors and clinical compliance experts

  • Develop robust policies, procedures, and clinical governance frameworks

  • Train your team on key compliance areas including safeguarding, infection prevention, and incident reporting

  • Access ongoing compliance support and digital tools to maintain readiness

Whether you are launching a new clinic or adapting your existing service to meet these new expectations, HLTH Group can provide the clarity, confidence, and compliance expertise you need to succeed.

The Time to Act Is Now

The government has made it clear: unsafe, unregulated practice in the aesthetics industry will no longer be tolerated. The new measures are not just about protecting patients — they’re also about levelling the playing field and supporting competent, compliant practitioners who are committed to safety and high standards.

HLTH Group is here to ensure your clinic is among them.