BABTAC launches T.I.M.E initiative to help consumers identify safe beauty services
By Helena Biggs | 27 January 2023 | Movers & Shakers, News
The British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology (BABTAC) hosted an event at the Houses of Parliament on 26 January to mark the launch of T.I.M.E, an initiative to help consumers signpost their way to salon safety.
A regulatory checklist, T.I.M.E will provide the framework necessary to ensure that consumers are aware of what to consider when booking a service with a beauty therapist.
- TRAINING – What training and qualifications, including continual professional development (CPD) do you and all your staff have?
- INSURANCE – Are you insured & who by?
- MONITORING – Do you carry out important pre and post appointment processes such as patch tests, consultations & aftercare
- EVIDENCE – Can you provide certified proof of training and insurance and client testimonials?
Lesley Blair MBE, CEO of BABTAC, led a panel discussion in front of members of the beauty industry and press. She was joined by T.I.M.E supporters, Caroline Hirons, Beauty Backed Trust & ambassador founder; Millie Kendall OBE, founder & CEO of the British Beauty Council; Dija Ayodele, skincare expert & founder of the Black Skin Directory, and Candice Glanville, founder of Skin Group International.
Blair comments: “We’re so pleased to be launching the TIME initiative, with the support of some key leaders in the beauty sector. Lack of regulation in our industry means that consumers are being exposed to potentially unsafe situations all too often, and so we’ve seen a wave of ‘botched’ beauty treatments in recent years as a result.
“This regulatory checklist aims to serve as a simple but effective reminder for consumers to help them choose evidence-based, professional fit for purpose services, whilst minimising any risk.”
Currently, lack of legislation in the UK beauty industry means that those with little training can establish themselves as a ‘professional’ therapist. A survey by Beauty Backed post-pandemic found that 56% of consumers believed the industry is regulated; highlighting the lack of consumer awareness surrounding the standardisation of qualifications and training.
Millie Kendall OBE adds: “It is worrying that such a high percentage of consumers are completely unaware that the beauty industry remains largely unregulated and also demonstrates the need for a widespread education.
“We’re pleased to be supporting BABTAC with the launch of the T.I.M.E initiative, which will help inform consumers on what they should be looking for when choosing a treatment, the questions they should be asking their therapist, and the potential implications that can arise when seeking services from unqualified individuals.”