Survey shows impact of covid-19 on aesthetic practitioners
The impact of covid-19 on aesthetic businesses throughout the UK has been revealed in new data released by Hamilton Fraser Cosmetic Insurance.
Since March, the company has been conducting regular surveys and asking practitioners to share insights into how they have adapted their clinics, treatments and businesses as well as to gauge their views on what the future of the sector may look like in a post-covid landscape.
Almost all of those surveyed (99.78%) said their aesthetic practices had been affected by covid-19, with 86% reporting a reduction in revenue and 72% admitting they had no contingency plan in place.
Despite this, practitioners swiftly adapted their businesses to cope with the changing requirements, legislation and hygiene practices with many (54%) also re-joining the NHS during lockdown.
The post national lockdown period signified eased restrictions with 82.61% re-opening their clinics. However, 88.18% said that they were still working for the NHS.
When asked if they had noticed any changes to their clientele since reopening, 83.92% reported the return of their existing clients, with 33.67% stating that they now had more new customers. Interestingly, 11.06% reported treating increased numbers of “younger” patients and 9.05% said that they were treating a greater number of “older” patients.
Practitioners reported an average of 21 new clients entering their clinic since reopening, with the increased interest in procedures, being largely attributed to a post-lockdown “Zoom effect”.
Botulinum toxin was the most popular treatment sought post-lockdown with 82.33% of practitioners commenting on this treatment. In addition, dermal fillers (54.42%) and skincare (27.91%) were popular trends.
The report concluded that: “Practitioners should look to the future of their clinics with a key focus on business and contingency planning to secure their long-term success. The retention of existing clientele, as well as creating a safe space for new clients, with adapted procedures and wellbeing services that cater for a ‘new covid-19 normal’ are also key.”