NHBF referenced in Government Aesthetics Regulation Debate

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) was quoted this week in the House of Commons during a debate about aesthetics regulation. The UK’s largest hair & beauty trade body had raised concerns about a concerning bias emerging in the Government consultation process. The consultation, which is now closed, will inform the shape of the government’s licencing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

In September this year, the NHBF wrote to Steve Brine, the Conservative MP for Winchester and Chair of the Health and Social Care Committee in Parliament, outlining concerns regarding the pre consultation process related to aesthetics regulation. It was felt that more medical organisations than beauty organisations were being consulted, which the NHBF suggested caused confusion and a bias narrative in the consultation document. 

It was highlighted that with some of the options outlined in the consultation document, were based on medical restrictions relating to oversight and location, which could lead to routes into aesthetics via the beauty sector being restricted, which would have dire unintended consequences for many legitimate and reputable businesses. The NHBF pointed out that if this happens there is the risk that the new regulations may drive some practices underground rather than increase quality and standards across the sector, which is what they are aiming to see. The NHBF also said that it had written to senior officials in the Government twice this year regarding the new licensing scheme. 

The Minister responsible for aesthetics regulation, Maria Caulfield replied that a total of 12,000 responses were received during the consultation period, with similar numbers of aesthetic practitioners and healthcare professionals participating. She also noted that this was one of the highest number responses received for a Government consultation.

Caroline Larissey, NHBF chief executive, said:

"We are pleased that the Chair of the Health & Social Care Committee has raised the concerns of the sector during a debate in Parliament with the Minister in the Department for Health and Social Care, Maria Caulfield. NHBF continues to be fully engaged in shaping the licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including collaboration with sector colleagues through the Beauty Industry Group. We look forward with interest to the Government response to the consultation early in the new year."

The NHBF remains committed to actively participating in the ongoing consultation process and will continue to advocate for a fair and balanced regulatory framework that supports the needs and interests of sector businesses.