The UK government is seeking public views on how to enhance the safety of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including Botox, laser hair removal, and dermal fillers. This move comes in response to a rising number of complaints regarding botched procedures. The government aims to shape a licensing scheme for practitioners and cosmetic businesses by incorporating feedback from industry professionals and individuals who have undergone these treatments.
The proposed regulations may include restrictions on who can perform high-risk procedures and age limits for individuals opting for cosmetic procedures. One particular focus is on injecting fillers into intimate areas such as the breasts and buttocks. The introduction of a licensing scheme would help protect patients from potential harm caused by poorly performed procedures, ensuring consistent standards and providing reassurance to consumers.
The beauty industry plays a significant role in the UK economy, with a substantial portion consisting of small and medium-sized businesses primarily owned by women. The non-surgical cosmetic industry has been valued at around £3.6 billion in the UK. The new regulations would raise standards and professionalism across the sector, benefiting businesses by enhancing their reputation and supporting their growth.
Maria Caulfield, the Minister for the Women’s Health Strategy, emphasized the need for consistent standards and a level playing field for consumers and practitioners. She acknowledged the increasing popularity of cosmetic procedures and expressed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all individuals undergoing such treatments. Caulfield encouraged the public to share their opinions and experiences through the consultation process to help shape effective regulations.
According to estimates, there are approximately 900,000 Botox injections performed each year in the UK. Save Face, a government-approved register of accredited practitioners, received nearly 3,000 complaints in 2022. Around two-thirds of these complaints were related to dermal fillers, and approximately a quarter were linked to Botox. Ashton Collins, director of Save Face, expressed delight at being invited by the government to contribute thoughts and ideas for the public consultation. Save Face, as an established Professional Standards Authority accredited register, will provide valuable insights based on years of data collection from practitioner audits and patient-reported complaints.
Professor David Sines CBE, Chair of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners, welcomed the government’s decision to consult on the proposed licensing scheme. Sines emphasized the importance of properly trained and qualified practitioners providing safe and hygienic treatment environments for individuals undergoing non-surgical cosmetic procedures. He encouraged everyone to participate in the consultation and support the regulations to ensure sensible and proportionate regulation in this sector.
Victoria Brownlie, Chief Policy Officer at the British Beauty Council, highlighted the council’s efforts to improve the beauty industry’s reputation and enhance checks and balances for aesthetic procedures. Brownlie commended the government for banning injectables for individuals under 18 years old in 2021 and noted the ongoing momentum towards introducing a licensing scheme for higher-risk aesthetic treatments. The British Beauty Council looks forward to shaping the regulatory framework based on the consultation’s outcome.
The public consultation will run for eight weeks and will conclude on October 28th. The government’s introduction of the Health and Care Act in April 2022 granted the Health and Social Care Secretary the authority to implement a licensing regime. Under the proposed scheme, practitioners will require a license to perform specific procedures, and the premises they operate from will also need to be licensed. The government has already prohibited individuals under 18 years old from accessing Botox and filler treatments for cosmetic purposes, as well as banned TV and social media ads targeting this age group.
Individuals considering cosmetic procedures are urged to consider the potential impact on their physical and mental health thoroughly. If they proceed, finding a reputable, insured, and qualified practitioner is crucial.
