The Royal College of Pharmacy (RCPharm) has published an updated position following a review of aesthetic practice, setting out professional expectations for pharmacists who provide non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

As the industry grows and public demand for cosmetic procedures increases, the new statement makes clear that procedure-specific training alone is not sufficient for pharmacists to practise independently in this area. Safe and effective aesthetic practice also requires appropriate clinical experience, supervised practice and the necessary competence. 

The review was carried out in response to legislative changes and a growing number of enquiries to the College about aesthetic practice.  

In the statement, RCPharm strengthens the emphasis on the broader clinical responsibilities involved in delivering aesthetic treatments, recognising that pharmacists must be able to assess whether treatment is appropriate for an individual, consider psychological wellbeing, identify and manage risks, and respond effectively to complications. 

It also sets out expectations around the wider governance of aesthetic practice, including appropriate premises, product safety, record keeping, ongoing professional development and arrangements for emergency care. RCPharm recommends that pharmacists should not provide aesthetic procedures to people under 18. 

The change comes as the regulatory landscape for non-surgical cosmetic procedures continues to develop across the UK, including recent legislation in Scotland to strengthen safeguards in this area. As requirements differ across the four nations, pharmacists are responsible for ensuring their practice complies with the standards and legal obligations that apply where they work. 

Tase Oputu, RCPharm President, said: 

“Aesthetic practice is an evolving area and pharmacists working in this space need to be able to demonstrate that they have the right skills, experience and competence to provide safe, high-quality care. 

“This updated statement reinforces the importance of putting safety at the heart of aesthetic practice. Pharmacists need to have the experience and professional judgement to put the individual first, recognise when a treatment may not be appropriate and make sure the individual is properly supported if things don’t go as planned.” 

Read the updated position statement.

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