In the UK, the government recently signaled its intent to regulate non-surgical cosmetic procedures more tightly. This decision was made in light of increasing public outcry over dangers associated with this industry. Smyth criticized the state of the market today, telling a subcommittee that it’s become “a Wild West.” She cautioned that these “cosmetic cowboys” are doing fatal and catastrophic harm. The decision follows a public consultation in 2023 which showed a clear majority favored stricter regulatory measures to be adopted across the industry.
We applaud the government for committing to prioritize regulating unsafe procedures. …including breast fillers and Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs). Under the proposed laws, only licensed medical providers will be allowed to perform such invasive, high-risk non-surgical procedures. The aim is to ensure that patients are treated safely and effectively, minimizing the chances of complications or adverse effects.
At present, there are around 16,000 businesses actively working in the non-surgical cosmetic procedures sector in the United Kingdom. Clinics have complex and burdensome regulations that are necessary for their operation. In addition, they have to get state licenses to deliver services, such as Botox and fillers. This comprehensive regulatory structure is intended to ensure that consumers are not putting themselves at risk with unqualified practitioners peddling substandard treatments.
Together with tragic incidents, these sorts of events have pushed leaders to recognize the urgent need for reform. Another such incident is that of Alice Webb, who is believed to be the first person in the UK to have died following an unregulated cosmetic procedure in September 2024. Further, health officials are currently probing 38 cases of poisoning in connection with suspected counterfeit Botox injections. These alarming trends have shone a light on how harmful unregulated practices can be.
The government is right to impose age limits on particular procedures to further defend the public from exploitation. This action would help protect minors from risky cosmetic fads that are going viral on social media. Reports from women who have suffered dangerous complications, pain, and permanent scarring after treatments by rogue operators have influenced this push for change.
Ashton Collins, director of Save Face, recently told us about the state of affairs. He stressed that he has seen first-hand how catastrophic these procedures are for victims and their families. His vision is one where no more harm is done and non-corrective pressing issues are addressed, but practitioners are held accountable.
In a recent statement, a government official emphasized that “this isn’t about stopping anyone from getting treatments. It’s about preventing rogue operators from exploiting people at the expense of their safety.” This feeling represents a larger dedication to creating a safe space for cosmetic treatments to thrive.
Even with these encouraging proposals, experts warn that it could take years before the new regulations go into effect. Prof David Sines, executive chair of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP), which is in favour of the government’s proposals. He said more consultation is needed to make sure it could succeed. He urged the need to regulate and license everyone doing cosmetic work. It’s important that they are adequately insured and that they work from appropriate facilities.
The Scottish government is increasing attempts to raise safety standards in the non-surgical cosmetic procedures industry. This move comes as part of an increasing realization throughout the United Kingdom that reform is desperately needed.