The discussion explores the multifaceted nature of working in the aesthetics industry, highlighting how clinical expertise, strong business acumen, and genuine empathy combine to create excellent patient care. The participants emphasize that despite negative press or occasional poor online reviews, the majority of practitioners truly care about their clients and strive to provide high-quality, ethical treatments. They acknowledge that while bad experiences or negative feedback can disproportionately dominate public perception, most professionals approach their work with integrity and concern for patient well-being. A significant part of the conversation focuses on the challenges clinic owners face, especially in managing staff. Finding the right people—those with the appropriate skills, attitude, and values—is crucial. The speakers stress the importance of acting decisively and promptly if someone is not a good fit, as retaining unsuitable employees can cause long-term damage to clinic culture and performance. Supporting staff effectively, providing ongoing management, and maintaining open communication are highlighted as essential for fostering a positive work environment. Decision-making is another key theme. Business owners are encouraged not to fall into paralysis by analysis; instead, they should make informed decisions swiftly, understanding that some mistakes are part of the growth process. The ability to adapt and learn from these decisions is seen as vital for success. The conversation also addresses the evolving nature of media consumption and industry networking. While print media still holds value for staying informed about developments and trends, digital platforms have become indispensable. However, the speakers observe that with the abundance of online information, attending live events and in-person conferences has become a more selective and valuable experience. Post-COVID, people are more discerning about where they invest their time, so events must offer clear benefits, such as networking opportunities and access to cutting-edge knowledge, to remain relevant. They note plans to enhance industry events to better meet the needs of practitioners, making these occasions more compelling and worth attending. The discussion concludes with an emphasis on maintaining professionalism and politeness when responding to criticism or negative feedback online, advising clinics to avoid engaging in unproductive disputes and instead uphold a respectful tone that reflects well on their brand.

In this episode, Vicky Eldridge and Eddie Hooker speak with Andrew Rankin, a Registered Nurse and key figure in shaping the regulatory landscape of aesthetic medicine in the UK. With over 15 years of experience as a clinic partner and more than a decade in regulatory advisory roles, Andrew has been instrumental in the development of professional standards through his work with Health Education England, the JCCP, MHRA, and other statutory bodies. As Chair of the JCCP Practitioner Register Committee and Co-chair of the Clinical Advisory Group, Andrew offers a uniquely informed view on the challenges and progress of governance, patient safety, and practitioner accountability in the rapidly growing and often controversial aesthetics sector.

In this in-depth episode of the Aesthetics Business Cast, hosts Vicky Eldridge and Eddie Hooker are joined by Debbie Thomas, one of the UK’s most respected laser and skin experts. Debbie shares her unfiltered journey into the aesthetics industry, from her roots in beauty therapy to establishing the acclaimed D.Thomas Clinic in Chelsea. She speaks candidly about the realities of clinic life, why education and patch testing are non-negotiables, and how understanding the science behind devices – not just the brand – is key to delivering safe, effective results. Debbie also reflects on building trust with patients, managing work-life balance as a founder, and why she avoids chasing trends in favour of personalised, evidence-led treatment plans. The episode offers valuable advice for new and experienced practitioners alike, with practical tips on choosing technology, combining treatments safely, and maintaining professional integrity in a saturated market.

In this episode, Vicky Eldridge and Anna Dobbie sit down with the brilliant and refreshingly honest Dr Ginni Mansberg to explore the evolving conversation around women’s health, particularly menopause, and the intersection of evidence-based skincare and aesthetic medicine. Dr Mansberg, author of The M Word and founder of Evidence Skincare (ESK), brings her medical insight, media savvy, and no-nonsense attitude to a discussion that aims to cut through the confusion, hype, and misinformation currently surrounding menopause.

The Aesthetics Business Cast, presented by Hamilton Fraser, hosts Claire Newman, a registered mental health nurse and director at Soft Touches Aesthetics. In this compelling episode, Claire sheds light on the complex issue of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) in the aesthetics industry. She elaborates on the challenges and responsibilities that aesthetic practitioners face when dealing with clients who may have BDD. Throughout the conversation, Claire emphasises the importance of thorough consultations and the ability to say 'no' compassionately when treatments are not appropriate. She shares her extensive experience in identifying signs of BDD, discussing the psychological impacts of the disorder and how it can vary greatly among individuals. The discussion also delves into the critical role of training for practitioners, the significance of having robust policies in place, and the necessity of understanding and implementing a proper referral process. Claire’s insights highlight the often-overlooked intersection of mental health and aesthetic treatments, offering valuable advice for professionals striving to support their patients effectively while minimising the risk of exacerbating their conditions.

Clinical Director of Facial Aesthetics and award-winning nurse practitioner, Julie Scott, shares her insights on getting started in aesthetics with host, Vicky Eldridge. What attracted Julie to a career in the sector, and what one piece of advice would she go back and tell her younger self? Tune into this inspiring conversation to learn about Julie’s tips for developing a business mindset, dealing with imposter syndrome, and what she is most excited about for the future of aesthetics. This episode is a must listen for practitioners starting out, as well as anyone looking to take their business to the next level.

In this episode Vicky Eldridge sits down with the newly appointed Chair and Vice Chair of the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN), Amy Bird and Alexandra Mills, as well as by Chief Operating Officer, Gareth Lewis. With a fresh vision for the future, they share their personal journeys into aesthetic nursing and the pivotal role BAMAN plays in supporting practitioners across the UK. From hot topics like remote prescribing, the campaign to protect the title "nurse", and the safe administration of prescription-only medicines, to the support structures BAMAN provides for new entrants to the field, Amy and Alexandra offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to lead an organisation committed to standards, safety and professional growth. Whether you're an experienced aesthetic nurse, new to the sector or simply curious about the direction of the industry, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving sector of aesthetic nursing - and what BAMAN has planned next.

The Aesthetics Business Cast, presented by Hamilton Fraser, welcomes Dr Priya Chadha, Director of Acquisition Aesthetics and a specialist in plastic surgery. In this enlightening episode, Dr Chadha discusses the often misunderstood concept of work-life balance, particularly within the demanding aesthetics industry. She challenges the traditional perceptions and emphasises the importance of defining personal joy and energy sources to achieve a fulfilling professional and personal life. Throughout the conversation, Dr Chadha shares her insights on leadership, the critical role of team empowerment, and the necessity of 'ruthless time management' to maintain one’s mental and physical wellbeing. She candidly addresses the dynamics of managing a business and personal life, revealing her strategies for prioritising tasks that align with her values and bring her joy. The discussion also explores the significance of mental health, particularly the impact of rigorous self-care routines like prioritising sleep and setting firm boundaries. Dr Chadha’s perspective on the aesthetics industry’s evolution highlights the exciting advancements in treatment combinations and patient education, which she believes will integrate aesthetics more seamlessly into daily wellness routines.

The Aesthetics Business Cast, brought to you by Hamilton Fraser, features Dr Raj Thethi, Medical Director of the Yorkshire Skin Centre, discussing the critical role of ongoing training in the aesthetics industry. In this episode, Dr Thethi shares insights on the rapid evolution of aesthetic practices, the necessity of continuous education for practitioners, and the challenges newcomers face in selecting quality training courses. The conversation also delves into the shifting dynamics of male treatments, the significance of mentoring, and the value of business focused events in shaping a successful career in aesthetics. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the complexities of aesthetics training and the importance of personalised approaches in treatment.

The Aesthetics Business Cast, brought to you by Hamilton Fraser, features Dr Emily Mehta, Director of Harley Academy, as she delves into the crucial topic of patient motivations and expectations in aesthetic practice. This episode discusses the impact of social media on unrealistic patient expectations, the importance of effective communication during consultations, and strategies for practitioners to ethically manage patient requests. Dr Mehta shares her insights on the evolving landscape of aesthetic treatments, the shift towards more natural results, and the significance of building strong relationships with patients. 

In this episode of The Aesthetics Business Cast, brought to you by Hamilton Fraser, we welcome Vanessa Bird, The Aesthetic Consultant, who shares her insights on enhancing patient satisfaction in the aesthetics industry. Vanessa discusses the importance of creating a memorable patient journey that extends beyond clinical results, emphasizing the significance of the entire experience - from welcoming patients to the little touches that make them feel valued. She shares personal anecdotes, tips for clinics on improving customer service, and the role of reputation management in maintaining trust. This episode is a must-listen for practitioners looking to elevate their practice and foster lasting relationships with their patients.

The Aesthetics Business Cast, brought to you by Hamilton Fraser, features Professor David Sines, Chair of the JCCP, discussing UK regulations and a proposed licensing scheme within the aesthetic industry. The conversation covers updates on delayed regulatory responses from the UK government, the urgency of implementing safety measures following major incidents such as the Alice Webb tragedy, and developments in Scottish legislation. The discussion also highlights collaboration with other organisations and the role of insurance in public protection. Advice is offered to newcomers in the aesthetic field, emphasising the importance of specialised training.

In this special episode, we welcome Charlotte Body, founder of Menopause in Practice (MiP), who shares her personal journey through the challenges of menopause and her inspiring story of resilience and recovery. Charlotte opens up about the physical and emotional struggles she faced, the treatments that helped her regain balance, and her mission to champion safe, ethical menopause care in the aesthetics industry.

In this episode of The Cosmetic Cast, we talk to Dr Mayoni Gooneratne, a functional medicine doctor, aesthetic practitioner and former NHS surgeon with a passion for female wellness. The aesthetics industry is increasingly recognising the importance of a holistic approach that integrates treatments with lifestyle and wellness advice. This approach considers the whole person and seeks to enhance not just physical appearance, but also overall quality of life. Together with Hamilton Fraser's founder and CEO, Eddie Hooker, and journalist Vicky Eldridge, Dr Gooneratne explores how this fusion of aesthetics and wellness has created opportunities for practitioners to diversify their service offering. Tune in to find out about her journey from aesthetics into functional medicine and how you too can integrate this into your practice.   Dr Mayoni Gooneratne is co-founder of the British College of Functional Medicine and founder of Human Health Clinic, both of which are referred to during this podcast.   For more relevant reading, see our article, ‘Integrating wellness and a holistic approach into your practice’.

This episode of Hamilton Fraser’s Cosmetic Cast explores how aesthetic clinics can be more inclusive in their practice. Our special guest, Dr Vincent Wong, is a multi-award-winning facial aesthetics doctor specialising in facial balancing and harmony, and in facial feminisation and masculinisation within the LGBTQ+ community. Recorded during Pride, a month dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ communities all around the world, Vincent shares his story of how his personal experiences with discrimination have fuelled his passion for creating a more supportive environment in aesthetic clinics. Drawing on his experience of coming out and dealing with trauma, Vincent explains how clinics can be more inclusive and show their support for Pride in a meaningful way. Tune in to hear Vincent’s insights and discover why language, terminology and pronouns are important, and how we can all do better. Vincent’s book, ‘Healing Scars’ is available here

Dr Chadha is Director of Acquisition Aesthetics training academy, an award-winning educator and a top ranking plastic surgeon. She also co- founded AUCC, a non- profit, aesthetic charity conference, and is the medical director, founder and owner of a number of clinics in London specialising in non- surgical aesthetic injectable treatments. We caught up with her behind the scenes at ABC 2023. Dr Chadha talks us through what inspired her to go into aesthetic practice, offers unique insights into finding a training provider that is the right fit for you, and shares tips on how she juggles being a busy mum and a plastic surgery doctor.

Having owned three dental practices and with over 21 years’ experience carrying out facial aesthetics, Dr Singh, Founder and CEO of the Botulinum Toxin Club, is a leading light in the aesthetics sector. Dr Singh led the session on ‘the 8 As of the patient journey’ at ABC 2023. We caught up with him behind the scenes, where he shared his story and the mistakes he’s made along the way. Listen in to find out how he made the transition into facial aesthetics and to hear his top tips for success – from patient retention to balancing the clinical and business aspects of aesthetics, avoiding common pitfalls, keeping motivated and avoiding burnout, and much more.

Award-winning cosmetic doctor, aesthetic injectables trainer and expert in advanced procedures, Time Clinic’s Medical Director, Dr Bawa, is a regular guest speaker on the international stage. We caught up with him at ABC 2023, where he led the session on ‘how to start your business’. Tune in to hear his tips – from making the transition from the NHS into aesthetics, marketing advice and how to use photographs in consultations and manage patients’ expectations, to what he would have done differently, how to future-proof your business, and much more.

We caught up with Professor David Sines behind the scenes at ABC 2023. Chair of the JCCP and the leading national expert on the new regulations, David led the national review on education and training standards for the non-surgical sector in England. Listen in to find out all you need to know about the proposed regulations and licensing scheme - described as the ‘biggest shakeup in a generation’. From top tips to stay informed and compliant, to when the new legislation will come into effect and how you can future proof yourself as the aesthetics sector becomes more regulated, David has the answers you are looking for.

Our annual Aesthetics Business Conference (ABC) – the UK’s premier dedicated business conference for aesthetic practitioners - returned for its sixth year on 19 September 2023. ABC 2023 was the first opportunity for the sector to learn about the major legislative changes and licensing scheme coming to the sector, in our medicolegal sessions with the Joint Council for Medical Practitioners (JCCP).  The carefully selected industry speakers never fail to deliver, and this year was no exception. From getting started in aesthetics to managing the patient journey, choosing the right training for you, marketing tips, insurance and how to prepare for the new regulations, ABC had it covered.