Celebrating ethical care in the cosmetic industry this National Beauticians Day
Choosing to have a cosmetic treatment is a personal decision, and it should start with a conversation you can trust.
At CosLux, we’re advocating for consultations to be treated as a vital part of the cosmetic process, not just a formality. It’s a space to understand your goals, explore options, and make informed decisions without pressure.
We’re taking you behind the scenes of what ethical cosmetic consultations should look like. From what to expect in your first appointment to signs a clinic isn’t putting your safety first, we’ll help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
But, how common are unethical clinics? Good question.
In recent years, cosmetic procedures have surged in popularity, but not every clinic has kept pace with the standards patients deserve.
In late January 2025, three people were hospitalised in NSW with botulism following cosmetic injections. This incident highlighted ongoing concerns in the industry. Between September 2022 and March 2025, AHPRA investigated around 360 notifications related to non-surgical cosmetic procedures, with approximately 300 now closed. In total, more than 500 notifications have been received across both surgical and non-surgical procedures, and over 20 practitioners have faced regulatory action for non-surgical concerns alone.
This isn’t just about numbers — it’s about safety. A national survey by ASAPS revealed that over 40% of Australians don’t feel confident choosing a practitioner. Many simply don’t know what to look for or what best practice should even involve. Confusion, inconsistent standards and a lack of clear guidance have left too many people in the dark.
That’s why the consultation step is so important. It’s your chance to slow down, ask questions, and get real answers before committing to anything.
What to look for in a reputable cosmetic provider
A reputable cosmetic clinic prioritises your safety, comfort, and understanding, not just the treatment itself. The process should begin with a thorough consultation led by a qualified practitioner, not a salesperson or assistant.
An ethical consultation takes the time to:
- Understand your reasons for seeking treatment
- Explore your goals and expectations
- Review your medical history and any relevant risk factors
- Explain the available options, including those that may not be appropriate for you
You should walk away with a clear understanding of what the treatment involves, what results are realistic, and what potential risks or side effects may apply to you personally.
A proper consultation should leave you:
- Fully informed about the process and outcomes
- Comfortable asking questions or raising concerns
- Free to take time to think about your options without being rushed into a decision
When choosing a provider, look for one that treats the consultation as a critical part of your care, not just a formality before treatment. It’s one of the clearest indicators of ethical practice in the industry
Importantly, a good clinic will also explain when treatment is not recommended and support that decision without pressure.
When it comes to cosmetic treatments, the conversation should come before the commitment. A thorough, practitioner-led consultation isn’t just a procedural step — it’s where trust is built, questions are answered, and your safety is prioritised.
In an industry where standards can vary, knowing what to look for empowers you to make confident, informed decisions. Whether you choose to go ahead with a treatment or not, you deserve care that’s transparent, respectful and always in your best interest.