Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct sets out the professional and ethical standards expected of all members of the Independent Aesthetic Practitioners Register (IAP). It aims to promote safe, responsible, and client-centred practice while supporting professional integrity and ongoing development.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all members of the IAP Register.

3. Core Values

Integrity: Be honest, fair, and transparent in all professional dealings.

Competence: Maintain safe practice through ongoing learning, skills development, and keeping knowledge up to date, whether through CPD, accredited courses, or practical experience.

Respect: Treat all clients, colleagues, and members of the public with courtesy and dignity.

Accountability: Take personal responsibility for your actions, decisions, and their outcomes.

Autonomy: Exercise independent professional judgment within the boundaries of your training, skills, and experience.

Inclusivity: Promote equality, diversity, and a working environment free from discrimination.

4. Professional Conduct

• Practise only within the boundaries of your verified training, experience, and current insurance.
• Keep insurance valid and relevant to all procedures you offer.
• On the occasions when prescription-only medicines are involved, follow all legal and ethical protocols and work with your prescriber accordingly.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, following GDPR and data protection laws.
• Prioritise client safety and always obtain informed consent before treatment.
• Be open about any conflicts of interest or endorsements.
• Avoid making misleading claims—whether in advertising or on social media—about your training, services, or treatment outcomes.
• Stay up to date with emergency protocols and keep a well-stocked emergency kit (including hyaluronidase and adrenaline if relevant).
• Undertake regular training or CPD in first aid, managing complications, and safe practice.

5. Client Care

• Offer honest consultations and provide clients with the time and information they need to make informed decisions.
• Never use pressure tactics to sell treatments.
• Clearly explain all risks, benefits, and aftercare details before treatment.
• Respect and protect client confidentiality at all times.
• Respond promptly to concerns, complaints, or adverse events.

6. Professional Relationships

• Work collaboratively and respectfully with other professionals, including prescribers and beauty therapists.
• Respect the professional judgement and legal responsibilities of prescribing practitioners.
• Never engage in public defamation, personal attacks, or cyberbullying of colleagues or competitors.
• Report concerns about unsafe or unethical practices through the proper channels.

7. Social Media & Public Communication

• Maintain professionalism in all public communications and social media activity.
• Do not post discriminatory, misleading, or unprofessional content.
• Only share client images with explicit, informed consent.
• Do not engage in online harassment, abuse, or “trolling”.

8. Breach of Conduct

Breaches of this code may result in:

• A written warning or requirement for further training
• Temporary suspension from the IAP register
• Removal from IAP membership for serious or repeated breaches
• Referral to regulatory bodies or authorities if required

9. Review and Updates

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually or as needed if relevant laws or standards change. Members will be notified of any updates and are expected to remain compliant.

10. Additional Provisions

• Members must not undermine, disparage, or otherwise denigrate colleagues or other businesses to attract clients.
• Always be transparent with clients about the purpose, potential benefits, limitations, and risks of any treatment. Never exaggerate likely outcomes or provide treatments beyond your verified training or insurance.
• Experimental or unproven treatments outside of recognised protocols are not supported or condoned by the IAP.

11. Voluntary Register and Disclaimer

The Independent Aesthetic Practitioners Register (IAP) is a voluntary, self-regulatory directory. Membership is not a guarantee of clinical standards, fitness to practise, or legal compliance. IAP does not hold statutory authority and cannot intervene in regulatory or criminal matters. Members remain responsible for meeting all relevant legal and professional obligations.

Membership is intended to support professional development and promote public confidence but does not replace formal regulation or external oversight. 

By joining the IAP, I confirm I have read, understood, and agree to follow this Code of Conduct in all aspects of my aesthetic practice.