AI Is Everywhere in Beauty - But What Does That Mean for Your Treatments?

Around 65% of professionals are now investing in AI and AR technologies - from virtual diagnostics and personalised consult tools to automated booking and marketing support - signalling widespread adoption across the sector*.

But as digital tools and AI platforms become more widely used across all sectors, BABTAC (the British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology) is encouraging beauty professionals to ensure these technologies are used as supporting resources, rather than replacements for accredited education and hands-on training.

Commenting, Lesley Blair MBE, CEO & Chair of BABTAC, said: “Safety and hygiene should be considered one of the main foundations of any beauty service, regardless of what treatment you are performing. They are all close contact services with varying degrees of risk, dependant on the products used and advanced nature of the treatment. Minimising risk and ensuring client wellbeing is paramount to any service industry, but maybe even more so for a sector that prides itself on improving their clients physical and mental wellbeing”

Women’s health journalist Ellie-Mae Hammond said: "I believe the future of AI in beauty education is about co-creation, not blind trust. AI can predict and suggest, but what we bring as professionals is the ability to question, challenge, and think critically. AI is a powerful tool for beauty professional training, but it must be used responsibly. It’s essential to understand the sources it draws from and where that information comes from.” 

Keeping safety and standards at the heart of professional practice 

BABTAC highlights that accredited training equips therapists with the practical knowledge needed to work safely with products, equipment and skin. Hands-on education is essential for learning techniques such as correct wax application, massage pressure, patch testing and hygiene protocols, as well as understanding how to assess a client’s suitability for treatment and when to adapt or postpone services.

Blair added: “Assessing risk, managing allergies and knowing when to refer a client for medical advice all come from proper education, experience and ongoing professional development.”

Professional standards in a digital age

As AI tools continue to evolve, BABTAC stresses the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between information and education. While AI-generated content can appear confident and authoritative, recognised qualifications, insurance cover and employer requirements are built around regulated training pathways and in-person assessment. This framework protects both practitioners and clients, ensuring treatments are delivered safely, ethically and in line with professional standards.

Hammond added: "Another important insight is that AI can never replace human curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on experience. By co-creating with AI, rather than relying on it blindly, beauty professionals can expand their knowledge, refine their techniques, and elevate the quality of their training."

^{*Based on findings from Exploring the Latest Beauty Trends of 2025: How the Beauty Industry Has Evolved. https://www.42signals.com/blog/beauty-trends-and-brands-evolution}