Top Trending UK Aesthetics Treatments in 2022

Want to know at a glance which aesthetic treatments that your potential clients were searching for in 2022?

Last year I did a deep dive into which aesthetics treatment were the most popular in the UK, based on search data, Google Trends and social media listening.

Let’s take a look at some key findings before we jump into the details.

UK aesthetics treatment trends in 2022

• Laser hair removal is the most searched-for treatment in 2022.

• Microneedling was the top skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing treatment.

• Both laser hair removal and microneedling are likely to be searched well over 1 million times combined over a 12 month period in the UK by the end of 2022.

• With some treatments, brand name matters – Botox and Kybella both had strong brand recognition when it came to searches.

• All aesthetics treatments have seen a growth in search over the past 5-10 years.

• Semi-permanent makeup treatments, such as microblading, have grown significantly in popularity over the past 5-10 years.

• UK aesthetic search trends have reflected global search trends too.

• Fillers have seen the most search growth over a 10 year period, with a 763% increase in searches during this time.

• Some treatments see seasonal spikes, but this varies from treatment to treatment – in general the spring and summer months seem to be quieter periods when it comes to search (but this doesn’t mean that this is reflected in clinic).

Aesthetic treatment search trends 2022

Here are the thirteen top trending aesthetics treatments in the UK, showing how they ranked over the period analysed and how many searches there were in the UK during in 2022:

The top 5 aesthetic treatments (by search volume) in 2022

Here are the top 5 most searched treatments in the UK according to data from SEMRush, Google Trends and social media:

1. Laser hair removal

It’s clear that laser hair removal is the most searched-for treatment online in the UK in 2022. It’s a treatment that can be carried out all over the body, on everyone and online searches have remained pretty consistent over the last 10-15 years when it comes to laser hair removal.

Historically, many cultures choose to remove hair from the body for health, hygiene and aesthetic reasons – and it’s likely social media and traditional media has a part to play in this too – which may explain why this treatment is searched so much in the UK.

2. Microblading

Searches for microblading have skyrocketed over the last 8-10 years, as technology and techniques have improved across the industry. Trends have also played a part, with interest in semi-permanent makeup, eyebrow trends, faux freckles and selfie culture all contributing towards the increased popularity of microblading as a treatment.

These treatments are considered to be semi-permanent, usually lasting a maximum of 2-5 years before they need additional treatments. This can mean a lower risk than earlier types of beauty tattoos which were more permanent.

3. Microneedling

Interest in microneedling has grown significantly over the last 5-6 years, likely due to an increased interest in anti-ageing treatments and as an alternative to injectable treatments such as botox, dysport and dermal fillers.

It’s considered to be a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime, boosting collagen production and improving a host of skin concerns from fine lines and wrinkles through to scarring and sun damage.

4. Hair transplants

Searches for hair transplants have been growing steadily over a 10-15 year period as treatments have improved and become more accessible. This is likely also as a result of social media and a renewed interest in appearance.

This is one treatment that is more popular for men than women (likely to be the opposite for most other treatments), with men reporting that their confidence and self image has been affected by hair loss as they get older.

5. Botox/Dysport

Searches for anti wrinkle injections such as Botox and Dysport have grown quickly over the past 10-15 years, with increasing interest in anti ageing solutions along with a social acceptance of these types of treatments.

Botox is the most searched-for term (ahead of Dysport or anti wrinkle injections) showing that consumers are aware of Botox as a brand of botulism toxin that’s used for anti-ageing treatments, muscle relaxation and sweat reduction.

What does the future look like for the aesthetics industry?

Based on the last 10 years of trends and growths, it looks likely that demand for aesthetic treatments will continue to grow, along with the industry and those practicing in it. Whilst there are always new treatments and trends, many of the most popular treatments in 2022 have been popular for well over a decade and will likely continue to remain popular.

Product development, improved techniques and new procedures all seem likely to increase in the future. The last few years have already seen an increase in the popularity of certain treatments – including newer treatments – along with new treatments and techniques also entering the market.

Historically the global aesthetics market has grown by around 10 per cent per year. Research from think-tank McKinsey has shown that the aesthetics injectables market alone looks likely to grow between 12 to 14 per cent a year over the next five years if manufacturers and providers capitalize on underlying trends.

Growing consumer purchase power, improved access to services and increased awareness and acceptance of aesthetic treatments have all grown in recent years and show no sign of slowing. The next generation are showing more interest in aesthetic treatments from a younger age, and markets that were previously relatively untapped by the aesthetics markets – such as clients who identify as men – are growing year upon year.

Improved regulation in the UK aesthetics industry looks set to improve client safety and satisfaction, treatment results and the reputation of aesthetics as a whole. Training is likely to become more thorough and the process of working with clients will be left to those who have demonstrated their dedication to their practice by gaining enhanced skills, certification and training.

Growing consumer purchase power, improved access to services and increased awareness and acceptance of aesthetic treatments have all grown in recent years and show no sign of slowing.

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