NHBF Welcomes Scottish Government’s Sensible Approach to Beauty Treatment Regulation

National Hair & Beauty Federation applauds reclassification of popular treatments as lower-risk procedures

The NHBF welcomes the Scottish Government’s sensible approach to regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures. This new three-tier framework demonstrates a commitment to public safety while recognising the professional expertise within our sector.

National Hair & Beauty Federation applauds reclassification of popular treatments as lower-risk procedures and welcomes the Scottish Government’s decision to reclassify several popular procedures following its consultation on the regulation and licensing of non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

The Scottish Government has moved several widely-used procedures from higher-risk categories (Groups 2 and 3) into Group 1, recognising them as comparatively low-risk procedures that do not require oversight from a healthcare professional.

The reclassified treatments include:

• Radiofrequency

• High frequency ultrasound (for non-intimate use)

• Photorejuvenation

• Fruit peels and glycolic acid chemical peels (affecting only the viable epidermis)

• Cryolipolysis

• Cryotherapy

• Advanced electrocautery

The framework includes provisions for adapting to new procedures and changing industry practices. This forward-thinking approach will help ensure regulations remain relevant as the sector continues to evolve.

NHBF’s response and industry consultation

“This is a sensible and evidence-based decision that reflects the reality of how these treatments are safely delivered across Scotland’s professional beauty sector,” said Caroline Larissey Chief Executive at the NHBF.

“These procedures have been performed safely by qualified beauty professionals for years, and this reclassification acknowledges their excellent safety record when carried out by properly trained practitioners.”

The consultation, which ran from December to February, gathered extensive feedback from industry professionals, training providers, and regulatory bodies. The NHBF actively participated in the consultation process, providing detailed evidence about treatment safety protocols and professional standards within the beauty and aesthetics industry.

“The Scottish Government has listened to the industry and recognised that over-regulation of safe, established non-surgical cosmetic procedures would have created unnecessary barriers for both businesses and consumers.  This balanced approach protects public safety while allowing qualified professionals to continue offering these popular and effective procedures.” 

- Jo Lancaster, NHBF Quality and Standards Manager for Beauty and Aesthetics

Commitment to professional standards

The NHBF emphasised that while these procedures are now classified as lower risk, the importance of proper training, ongoing professional development, and adherence to safety protocols remains paramount. The organisation continues to advocate for robust professional standards and comprehensive training requirements across all beauty treatments.

"Professional competence and consumer safety remain our top priorities,"  added Jo Lancaster. "We encourage all practitioners offering these procedures to ensure they have received appropriate training from recognised accredited providers and maintain the highest standards of practice."

The NHBF provides a FREE downloadable Health and Safety Business in a Box toolkit for all its Members, which is Government approved Prime Authority assured advice, and option to purchase a hard copy, providing all the necessary information to ensure your salon or clinic remains safe, legal and compliant.