05 Nov Finding the right beauty professional: what to look for, and what to avoid

I’ll let you into something that surprises most people: the UK beauty industry is almost entirely unregulated. Someone can complete a weekend course and start offering advanced treatments the very next week, with no one checking. After 30 years in this industry, and now running The Hair & Beauty Directory, I care a great deal about helping people find professionals they can trust. So here’s what I’d look for, and what I’d quietly walk away from.

Do reviews tell the whole story?

Not on their own. A high star rating is reassuring, but read the actual comments and look for consistency, especially around professionalism and hygiene. Those patterns tell you far more than the number of stars.

Look beyond the photos

A polished social media feed is lovely, but it isn’t proof of skill or safety. Look for businesses that also talk about their training, their products and how they work.

Check insurance and qualifications

Because the industry isn’t regulated, this is on you to check, and a true professional will be glad to show you. If someone hesitates to share their qualifications or insurance, that tells you what you need to know.

Pay attention to pricing

A very low price usually means a corner has been cut somewhere, in the products, the time spent, or the training behind the treatment. Good work has real costs behind it.

Notice the environment

A safe salon looks and feels organised and clean, with sanitised tools and clear hygiene habits. Trust what you see when you walk in.

Don’t be swayed by titles and awards alone

I say this as someone with a wall of awards. They’re lovely, but they aren’t regulated either, so treat them as a nice extra rather than proof. Verifiable qualifications, insurance and real results matter more.

What a safe salon looks like

In short: proof of insurance and qualifications, a proper consultation, patch tests where needed, professional products, treatment records, high hygiene standards, and clear aftercare advice. If those are in place, you’re in good hands.

If you’d like treatments in safe, qualified hands, book with us in Durham. We’re always happy to answer your questions first.