Why Face-to-Face Medical Consultations in Aesthetics Matter — And Why We’ve Always Done Them
- Victoria Ayers
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
A significant announcement has just been made by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC): all aesthetic prescriptions must now be based on a face-to-face consultation. This update, strongly supported by the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN), brings much-needed clarity and safety to an area of aesthetic medicine that has been a grey zone for too long.
At South Hams Aesthetics, this is a move we welcome — because it's how we've always operated.
What’s Changed, and Why It Matters
In the past, some practitioners — particularly in unregulated environments — have used remote or online-only assessments to prescribe injectable treatments such as botulinum toxin. While this may have seemed convenient, it raised serious concerns around patient safety, clinical responsibility, and professional standards.
The NMC’s updated guidance now makes it clear: nurses must carry out a face-to-face assessment of the patient themselves before prescribing. This isn't just about regulation; it’s about doing what’s clinically right.
Why is this important?Because a proper consultation isn’t just ticking a box. It’s where we:
Assess your skin, muscle movement and medical history in person
Identify any contraindications or risks
Tailor your treatment plan based on your face, lifestyle and goals
Give you time to ask questions and make an informed decision
Every face is different. You deserve time, care, and professional judgement before any aesthetic treatment is prescribed.
Not All Nurses Can Prescribe – Here's Why That Matters
There’s often a misconception that all nurses in aesthetics can prescribe. In reality, only nurses who’ve completed a specific postgraduate qualification — the Independent Nurse Prescribing course — can legally prescribe medicines.
It’s an extended role, requiring rigorous training in pharmacology, assessment and safe practice, followed by registration with the NMC as a Nurse Independent Prescriber. It's a mark of clinical accountability and professional trust.
As Clinical Lead of South Hams Aesthetics, Vikki is a Nurse Prescriber with over 17 years of NHS experience, currently working as an Acute Response Practitioner as well as leading in private aesthetics. Her qualifications mean she doesn't need to rely on external prescribers — she can assess, prescribe and treat you directly, with full responsibility for your care.
Raising Standards Across the Industry
The aesthetics industry in the UK is still largely unregulated, which means clients are often left in the dark about the qualifications and responsibilities of their practitioner.
This latest guidance is a vital step in raising standards, improving transparency, and protecting the public from unsafe, rushed, or inappropriate treatments.
At South Hams Aesthetics, we believe in doing things the right way — not just when rules change, but as standard practice.
What You Can Expect from a Consultation at South Hams Aesthetics
Whether you're visiting us for the first time or returning for a review, your consultation is never rushed. We take the time to:
Understand your medical background, lifestyle and treatment goals
Conduct a clinical facial assessment
Discuss what’s realistic, what’s safe, and what’s in your best interest
Answer your questions without pressure or obligation
We believe in honest, ethical aesthetics — where safety, natural results and trust are at the core of every decision.
Book Your Face-to-Face Consultation with Confidence
If you're considering aesthetic treatment and want peace of mind that you're being cared for by a qualified, experienced professional who follows current NMC and BACN guidance — you’re in the right place.
South Hams Aesthetics is proud to offer a professional, medically-led service in Kingsbridge, serving clients across Devon and the South Hams.
To arrange your face-to-face consultation,
contact Vikki today:07792 318384
We look forward to welcoming you.
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