Is the Level 7 Qualification the Future of Aesthetics Education and Training?

The aesthetic industry is constantly evolving, growing and changing. This, it seems, is something that is reflected in the aesthetics training arena as well – and for good reason…

The recent APPG report into the aesthetics industry recommended much better regulation of training. Tighter general regulations and skills recommendations have also been highlighted following a report by Health Education England (HEE). Lack of regulation and quality control in aesthetics has serious consequences for patients, especially when unqualified professionals are undertaking procedures that require medical expertise and skills.

A regulatory framework has been created collaboratively between the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN), the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), the British Association of Aesthetic Surgeons (BAAPS) and the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).

This has resulted in the introduction of the Level 7 Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine, a postgraduate qualification for healthcare professionals providing a standardised certification in the key competencies relating to aesthetic medicine. The qualification includes facial anatomy, skin physiology, complications management and specialised injection techniques to improve both confidence and competence.

Dr Lara Watson, Co-Founder and CEO of Acquisition Aesthetics – winner of the ‘Best Independent Training Provider of the Year Award 2021’ - said: “This new and improved Level 7 qualification has been designed to bridge the gap in training for aesthetic practitioners so that they can work safely, ethically and effectively in the industry. I expect that this will become a mandatory standard for anyone looking to legally practice aesthetic medicine, so it makes sense to future-proof your career now and truly stand out as an expert.”

The Level 7 diploma uses a combination of hands-on practical sessions, portfolio completion, e-learning, mentorship, industry partnerships and ongoing peer support to develop the next wave of aesthetics experts.

The qualification is awarded by OTHM, a UK based and internationally recognised Awarding Organisation with a global network of delivery centres and years of experience in delivering the Level 7 qualification. It’s essential that you do an accredited qualification that’s awarded by a recognised awarding body like OTHM. The training itself is delivered by industry experts, many of whom have gone through the programme themselves.

Dr Matthews, who completed their Level 7 diploma at Acquisition Aesthetics said: “Everything that I was taught has really stayed with me during my first year of business. The training was truly second to none and I couldn’t have built my skills, expertise and business without taking the diploma.”

Not only does a Level 7 qualification equip you with the knowledge and evidence of your practice and skills, it also demonstrates to clients that they’ve chosen an expert for their aesthetics treatment. It shows a commitment to safety and development in aesthetics as a long-term career that you’ve invested in, and can help to justify treatment prices above and beyond those who have carried out a weekend course in aesthetics.

Developed to align with the HEE Qualification Requirements for Delivery of Cosmetic Procedures, the Level 7 Diploma is aimed at qualified medical professions with a valid registration with the GMC/GDC/NMC/GPhC or evidence of completion of an international equivalent.

Interested in finding out more about Level 7 qualifications? Check out our article here. Or learn more about the Level 7 Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine with Acquisition Aesthetics.