Research conducted by insurance broker PolicyBee reveals that Manchester-based searches for aesthetics training courses rose by over 70% in August 2020 compared to April 2020’s figures.
Searches within the Greater Manchester region for training in microblading, micropigmentation and semi-permanent makeup fell from a combined average of 1,125 in January and February 2020 to almost half that number at the peak of the UK’s national coronavirus lockdown. Yet by August 2020, once the lockdown had been eased, this figure recovered to reach 990 searches, an increase of over 70%. Interest in these treatments, which are designed to create and define eyebrow shape and thickness, has been growing steadily over recent years, along with the aesthetics industry as a whole.
The decrease in search volume reflects the fact that most aesthetics training is hands-on, so had to stop altogether during the strictest months of lockdown. The late-summer leap in demand is encouraging for the sector and shows optimism for a healthy and expanding future. Increasing numbers of searches for aesthetics training go hand in hand with the expansion of the non-surgical cosmetics sector in the UK. A study published in 2018 found that two thirds of 18-34 year olds in the UK were considering a non-surgical cosmetic treatment within the next 21 months.[1]
Demand for cosmetic surgery has remained static or slowed as the non-surgical aesthetic market has rapidly grown in value, estimated to be worth over £3 billion by 2024[2]. In keeping with these trends, online searches for aesthetics training have increased steadily over the past four years, rising over 100% in 2019 compared to 2017. Part of the reason for the rise in searches for aesthetics training post-lockdown may be linked to the phenomenon of ‘lockdown face’[3]. According to Save Face, the UK’s register of accredited cosmetic practitioners, hours of staring at ourselves during video calls while working from home has led to an increased awareness of our appearances and therefore interest in aesthetic procedures.
The search data was gathered by insurance broker PolicyBee, which specialises in providing insurance specifically for aestheticians. PolicyBee’s treatment and professional liability insurance covers both medically and non-medically qualified practitioners providing treatments including Botox and dermal fillers, microblading, micropigmentation and semi-permanent make up, protecting them against claims of medical malpractice.
Amy Restall, insurance expert at PolicyBee, explained the importance of taking out the right policy: “Treatment and professional liability insurance isn’t just for medically trained practitioners. With the aesthetics industry growing fast in the UK over the last few years, there’s a real need to ensure all aestheticians have suitable insurance cover.
“As well as insuring their own businesses, PolicyBee urges aesthetics practitioners to confirm that their training providers are fully insured and reputable. Practitioners should always check that the training provider or course is recognised by accreditation bodies, such as the JCCP (Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners) or the CPD Certification Service, as well as complying with Health Education England’s (HEE) recommendations. The JCCP Education and Training Provider Register provides a list of training courses and qualifications that have been accredited by recognised awarding bodies.
“Malpractice allegations can be brought against anyone providing services with the potential to inflict bodily damage. This includes aesthetic and cosmetic practitioners offering treatments such as Botox and microblading. Unlike indemnity insurance, which isn’t designed to protect against physical harm, treatment and professional liability insurance covers aestheticians for compensation claims. With the search figures showing increasing interest in aesthetics training in the UK, it’s key that newly-qualified practitioners take out the necessary cover.”
The non-surgical aesthetics industry already holds a larger market share than surgical cosmetics procedures and looks set to continue to grow in the north west. After a dip in searches for aesthetics training in Greater Manchester during the UK’s national lockdown earlier this year, monthly demand for training quickly bounced back. Aesthetics practitioners should ensure any training they undertake is fully accredited and recognised by trade bodies. Alongside this, protecting their business with treatment and professional liability insurance will help mitigate the consequences of any potential claims.
For more information visit https://www.policybee.co.uk/blog/surge-in-demand-for-aesthetics-training
