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As 2024 comes to a close, I have been reflecting on another year passing here at Hamilton Fraser and within the aesthetics industry. And I think it’s fair to say it has been a year of challenges but also significant achievements and innovation.
This year, we’ve seen the aesthetics sector evolve in exciting ways. Emerging fields like regenerative medicine, menopause care, and wellness have redefined what aesthetics can offer, broadening the focus beyond beauty to include longevity and holistic health.
At the same time, we faced sobering challenges, including economic pressures, increased scrutiny on safety, and a reported downturn in some long-established treatments like dermal fillers.
The tragic incidents we’ve witnessed, such as the death of Alice Webb from a non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), remind us all of the critical importance of safeguarding and regulation in our industry.
Despite these challenges, I am optimistic about the future of aesthetics. Having been part of this incredible sector for almost 30 years, I know that its resilience, adaptability, and commitment to raising standards will see us through.
My own company, Hamilton Fraser, 2024 has seen another year of growth and impact. Here are some of our key highlights:
Safety remains at the heart of everything we do. For seven years, we’ve been proud to host the Aesthetics Business Conference (ABC) at the Royal College of Physicians, with this year’s event focusing on safety, patient selection and safeguarding, and working closely with respected partners like Success in Aesthetic Business (SIAB) and Menopause in Aesthetic (MIA).
I was honoured to share our insights on safeguarding at Menopause in Aesthetics and at the ABC. I also had an article on the topic published in Aesthetic Medicine magazine.
The tragic loss of Alice Webb has reinforced the urgent need for robust regulation, and in my position as one of the trustees of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners, I have continued to work closely with them to push for progress. While it’s disappointing that the Government’s response to the licensing consultation has been delayed, I remain hopeful that 2025 will bring positive changes.
Collaboration has been central to our work this year. We’ve proudly partnered with Success in Aesthetic Business (SIAB) and Menopause in Aesthetic (MIA) and have been the official insurance partner at Aesthetic Medicine London and Wigmore Presents, supporting education and innovation across the sector. Our partnership with Aesthetic Nurse Software (ANS) also reflects our commitment to providing practitioners with tools to streamline their work and improve patient safety.
Our ongoing partnerships with industry bodies like the JCCP are also a testament to our commitment to high standards.
We participated in over 25 events, showcasing our commitment to engaging with key industry professionals and stakeholders, from the CIBTAC & BABTAC awards and IAAFA awards to the regional meetings of the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN), fostering meaningful connections with practitioners and discussing critical developments in the field.
These partnerships enable us to strengthen the industry and create a more connected community.
Our podcast, The Aesthetic Business Cast, has been a particular highlight for me this year. Co-hosting with Vicky Eldridge, a friend of over 20 years, we’ve explored topics ranging from diversity and inclusivity with Dr Vincent Wong to the rise of longevity and wellness with Dr Mayoni Gooneratne. These conversations continue to inspire me and reinforce the importance of sharing knowledge within our sector.
One thing that has always been important to me and has continued to be a through-thread in 2024 is that we don’t just ‘sell insurance’. I believe in supporting aesthetic clinics throughout their journey by offering regular touchpoints, including CPD-accredited training guides.
Our annual survey provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing practitioners. It has been a privilege to provide a platform for these voices and to champion the needs of small businesses and entrepreneurs who make up the backbone of our industry.
Something that came out of the survey was the increasing demand for wellbeing, longevity and regenerative treatments as well as menopause support. And, over the past 12 months, we’ve looked to expand our offerings in response to this demand.
This is an emerging area in the insurance industry, but we’ve recognised the growing need for individuals to not only look good but feel good, reflecting a significant shift in demand which will continually support our growth plans for 2025.
This year we also streamlined our Cosmetic Insurance Quote & Buy system, simplifying the language and reducing barriers, making the process of purchasing the right insurance quick and accessible. This new system has resulted in an increase of 14% in new practitioners selecting Hamilton Fraser as their insurance provider. This enhancement, along with a new online portal for policy management, has freed up my team to offer more personalised support and has contributed to strong customer satisfaction and reviews, supporting our overall mission to be the insurer of choice for medically qualified aesthetic practitioners.
Additionally, I was proud to once again serve as a judge for the Aesthetic Awards and the first ever Menopause in Aesthetics Awards, celebrating the dedication and talent that drive our field forward.
I was also delighted to provide my insights into the most common insurance mistakes people make in an article for Aesthetic Medicine.
As Hamilton Fraser prepares for 2025, I am inspired by the resilience and innovation I’ve seen this year. Our continued commitment to raising standards, fostering partnerships, and supporting practitioners remains unwavering. I’ll continue to push for greater regulation, advocate for patient safety, and provide the tools and guidance practitioners need to thrive.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey – my incredible team at Hamilton Fraser, our partners, and the practitioners who trust us to support their businesses. Here’s to another year of learning, growth, and success.
Wishing you all a safe, happy, and prosperous 2025. 🎉🎊
Eddie Hooker
CEO & founder, Hamilton Fraser
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