Choosing the right pharmacy is one of the most important decisions you will make for your aesthetics business. In this guide, we share the top factors you should consider to help you navigate the process and choose a partner that ensures regulatory compliance, protects patients, and delivers exceptional results. 

1. Registered with GPhC

In the UK, all pharmacies must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). The GPhC has stringent regulatory standards for handling and supplying prescriptions to make sure you receive safe and effective care. So, before choosing a pharmacy for your aesthetics supplies, verify their GPhC registration via the online register.

The GPhC has also published updated guidance that all online pharmacies are expected to follow, in response to concerns identified relating to unsafe prescribing and supply of medicines online. This updated guidance will support online pharmacies to protect their patients and expect them to act now to ensure these safeguards are in place, ensuring a safer process for all. 

2. Compliant with UK Laws & Regulations

Under UK law, only registered prescribers (doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and nurse prescribers) can issue prescriptions for prescription-only medicines (POMs). These prescribers must comply with strict regulations regarding the storage, handling, and dispensing of aesthetic products, including compliance with the Human Medicines Regulations 2012.

Ensure that the pharmacy follows all legal requirements for prescription verification and dispensing and that they do not sell prescription-only products to non-prescribers. 

3. Quality & Sourcing

Quality is non-negotiable in aesthetics. Your pharmacy should source licensed, genuine products, and avoid counterfeit or unregulated imports. Look for MHRA- or EMA-approved products from well-known manufacturers.

You should also look for batch numbers and expiry dates. Without these, it’s impossible to verify a product’s authenticity or to recall products if safety issues do arise.

At You Can Clinic, we supply trusted, professional-grade injectables, skincare, and treatment essentials to help you deliver exceptional results.

4. Aesthetics Specialisation & Support

Not all pharmacies will specialise in aesthetics. A specialist partner, on the other hand, will be able to offer industry-specific expertise and tailored support, as well as keep you up to date on trends and regulatory changes specific to your practice. 

Having a knowledgeable pharmacist available for advice is invaluable. Choose a pharmacy that provides access to experienced pharmacists who understand aesthetic medicine, customer support with prompt response times, and educational resources to help you stay compliant and informed.

5. Good Range of Aesthetic Products 

The ideal aesthetics pharmacy will stock a wide range of high-quality products from reputable brands, allowing you to provide a broader range of treatments without needing to use multiple suppliers. This should include injectables, diluents, needles, infection control and emergency care products. 

• Botulinum toxin, such as Botox and Bocouture. 
• Dermal fillers for all areas, such as Saypha Lips and Teosyal Puresense Deep Lines.
• Skin boosters, such as Profhilo and Restylane.
• Swabs, topical numbing agents and aftercare products. 
• Needles, cannulas, syringes, pens, cartridges, threads and other medical equipment. 
• Infection control and PPE products, such as a sharps bin and gloves. 
• Emergency care, such as adrenaline.

Tip: Avoid the cheapest option. Low-cost suppliers may cut corners on quality or compliance.

6. Intuitive Prescription Process 

To register an account and make a purchase, you will need a photo ID, your insurance information, and training course certificates.

 Once you are registered and verified, the process should be straightforward. Ask yourself: 

• Does the pharmacy offer an easy-to-use online prescription service?
• Is there clear information on the products you’re purchasing? 
• How quickly are prescriptions processed and dispatched?
• Are there cold-chain logistics in place for temperature-sensitive products?

7. Reviews

Check online reviews and ask fellow aesthetics professionals for recommendations. Look for feedback on the product itself, the reliability of deliveries, and customer service and support, and make sure there are no red flags! If online reviews seem generic, overly positive, or lack detail, these might be inauthentic. 

Trustpilot, Save Face, Google Reviews, and aesthetics industry forums can be good sources of information.  

8. Other Services

Some aesthetics pharmacies go beyond just supplying products and offer additional services, such as CPD-accredited aesthetics and non-injectable courses. Whether you’re new to aesthetics or looking to expand your treatments, an aesthetics specialist partner can provide training on top of supplies, helping you to develop your business. 

At YouCanClinic, over 1000 medical professionals have progressed through our training programmes which provide comprehensive coverage of all relevant aesthetic procedures. We also offer support after training – from business courses to exclusive delegate forums and expert-led Q&A sessions, we help you grow and scale your aesthetics practice.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pharmacy safeguards your clients and ensures compliance with UK laws. Prioritise regulatory adherence and product quality, and consider partnering with an aesthetics specialist, for long-term success.

At You Can Clinic, we’re more than just a training academy – we’re your partner in aesthetics success. From expert-led hands-on training to high-quality product supplies and ongoing business support, we provide everything you need to build and grow your aesthetics career with confidence. Train with us, stock up on essentials, and watch your aesthetics business thrive.

Ready to take the next step? Register to be eligible for purchase from our registered aesthetics pharmacy, located in our state-of-the-art facilities in Cardiff. Or give us a call on +44 (0)2921 678747 to find out more about our products and courses, or send us an email at courses@youcanclinic.com. 

Always seek legal or regulatory advice if unsure about compliance requirements.