Professional Ethics and Legislation
This domain tests judgement inside the law. You must know what a facial aesthetician may and may not do, how consent and data are handled, and how to communicate without making claims you cannot support.
Scope of practice
Non-medical practice covers assessment, cleansing, exfoliation within cosmetic limits, massage, masks, non-invasive devices and superficial cosmetic peels. It excludes diagnosis, prescription, injectables, medical needling depth, and any lesion you cannot confidently identify. "I don't know, I'll refer" is a professionally correct answer.
Consent
Consent is a process, not a signature. It requires capacity, adequate information about benefits, risks, alternatives and cost, and freedom from pressure. Document what was discussed, not only that a form was signed. For minors, follow national rules on guardian consent; in Cyprus, verify the current age threshold before treating anyone under 18.
Data protection
The GDPR (Regulation 2016/679) applies to client records and photographs. Collect only what you need, store securely, restrict access, state a retention period, and obtain specific written consent for photographs - including whether they may be used on social media. Consent to treatment is not consent to marketing.
Products, claims and advertising
Cosmetic products must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009; claims must be truthful, evidenced and about appearance, not the treatment or cure of disease. Before-and-after images require consent and consistent lighting; misleading edits breach EU consumer protection rules.
Boundaries and business ethics
Professional indemnity insurance, transparent pricing, clear cancellation terms, no discrimination, no undisclosed incentives, and a complaints process that records, investigates and responds. Avoid dual relationships and never treat a client whose judgement you doubt.
Worked example
A local influencer offers free treatments in exchange for a post saying the facial "removes wrinkles permanently". Reasoning: the claim is unsubstantiated and disease-adjacent; the payment in kind must be disclosed under EU unfair commercial practices rules; photographs need separate written consent. Correct response: decline the wording, offer an evidenced claim such as "temporarily smooths the appearance of fine lines", disclose the arrangement, and use a signed image release.
Traps that cost marks
- Treating a signed form as proof of informed consent.
- Posting before-and-after images without specific permission.
- Using "cures", "heals" or "removes permanently".
- Working outside insurance cover.