Consultation launched into unregulated cosmetic procedures

People and businesses are being invited to share their views on how to make non-surgical cosmetic procedures – including Botox, laser hair removal and dermal fillers - safer as thousands complain of ‘botched’ procedures.

The government’s first-ever consultation on treatments will be used to shape a new licensing scheme for practitioners and cosmetic businesses which operate in England. This could include age limits and restrictions for high-risk procedures, including those involving injecting fillers into intimate parts of the body - including the breasts and buttocks.

Any new licensing scheme would protect patients from potential harm associated with poorly performed procedures. This will provide reassurance to people that wherever they go to get their treatments, they will receive the same high standards of practice.

New regulations will support businesses by introducing high standards across the sector, raising the reputation and professionalism of the industry.

Minister for the Women’s Health Strategy, Maria Caulfield said: "Whether it’s Botox, dermal fillers or even a chemical peel, we have heard too many stories of people who’ve had bad experiences from getting a cosmetic procedure from someone who is inexperienced or underqualified.

"There’s no doubt that the popularity of cosmetic procedures is increasing, so it’s our role to ensure consistent standards for consumers and a level playing field for businesses and practitioners. We want to make sure we get this right for everyone, which is why we want to hear your opinions and experiences through our new consultation."

An estimated 900,000 Botox injections are carried out in the UK each year. Save Face - a government approved register of accredited practitioners - received almost 3,000 complaints in 2022, with over two-thirds of those complaints relating to dermal fillers and almost a quarter relating to Botox.