Cosmetic treatments and aesthetics
Some cosmetic treatments are licensable under the Licensing Act 2003. This means that to carry these treatments both the premises, and the person carrying out the treatment, must obtain a license.
Licensable Treatments
These include:
- tattooing
- acupuncture
- ear Piercing
- body Piercing
- electrolysis
Find out more about the licensing process and how to apply.
When you have applied for your license, a member of the environmental health team will contact you to arrange to visit your premises.
During this visit the officer will assess different aspects of your premises and procedures. This is to ensure you can carry out the treatments safely. The assessment will look at:
- hand washing
- cleaning and disinfection
- suppliers
- waste arrangements
- client records
- structure of the room
Where possible, the inspecting officer will provide advice on any issues that need to be rectified before the licence is issued. They will allow time for these changes to be made.
Non-licensable treatments
Some treatments do not require a license but still pierce the skin. These include (but are not limited to):
- botox / fillers
- BBL (Brazilian but lifts)
- B12 / fat dissolver / tanning injections
We encourage anyone carrying out these procedures to get in touch via the details below. We will provide you with advice to carry out your work safely.
Advice for customers
Before you book, look at reviews and carry out their own research on the person / business carrying out these treatments.
If premises look dirty or you witness bad practices, you should not continue with the treatment. You should leave and report what you have seen to the Environmental Health Team. They will carry out a health and safety investigation to ensure that no members of the public are at risk.
Contact us
Get in touch if you would like further advice or to make a report.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01325 405111
We will respond in one working day.
More information
CIEH’s Tattooing and body Piercing Guidance [external link]
Needle stick injury & bodily fluid spill advice sheet [pdf document]
NHS advice on choosing who will do your cosmetic procedure [external link]
Sharp instruments in healthcare [external link]