Dr John Tanqueray, a former doctor who has been practising aesthetics since 1999, has spoken out about the lack of regulation in the industry.
In his end of year newsletter, he said:
“We should say a few words about the range of experience amongst different practitioners offering aesthetic treatments.
“It is now the case that anyone (yes, anyone) can go on a training course and then legally offer filler treatments to the general public.
“It may be no surprise that I and many of my colleagues are increasingly asked to deal with problems that have been caused by inexpert, and usually suspiciously cheap, treatment.
“So far the government appears to have no inclination to step in in the interests of patient safety.”
There have been recent moves to curtail the overt advertising of prescription only medications on social media and indications that the ASA will be monitoring rogue posts and adverts. However, restricting what’s allowed in advertising does not tackle the fact that any unqualified person is still legally able to inject volumising or toxin-based products for anti-ageing and cosmetic purposes.
This is not a new issue. As long ago as April 2013, the Review of the Regulation of Cosmetic Interventions (aka ‘The Keogh report’) flagged up the dangers and stated:
“We were surprised to discover that non-surgical interventions, which can have major and irreversible adverse impacts on health and wellbeing, are almost entirely unregulated.
“In fact, a person having a non-surgical cosmetic intervention has no more protection and redress than someone buying a ballpoint pen or a toothbrush.”
The report concludes:
“… our recommendations provide that framework for both surgical and non-surgical interventions. They set out a range of actions to ensure practitioners have the right skills, the products used are safe, providers are responsible, people get accurate information and support is available if things go wrong.
“These recommendations are not about increasing bureaucracy but about putting the everyone’s safety and wellbeing first.”
Important Facts About Aesthetics Regulation
- Experts are concerned about increasing numbers of patients experiencing side effects or bad results from practitioners who lack medical background and/or experience
- There is no legal requirement for practitioners to have any medical qualifications or training
- Industry bodies stipulate that wrinkle-relaxing injections must be first prescribed by a qualified prescriber after face to face consultation, but there are indications that this is not always the case
- Dermal fillers are not prescription-only and therefore there is no minimum requirement for a consultation with a prescriber
- Laws surrounding dermal filler products are also a concern. Some practitioners import from uncontrolled sources, putting patients at risk
Advice for choosing a practitioner – what to look for
- Check what product is being used. Look for top brands from UK pharmaceutical suppliers
- Check the credentials of the person who will be injecting it. They should have medical qualifications, training in aesthetics and extensive experience. Ask to see reviews and before/after pictures
- If unsure, do not go ahead. Never succumb to pressure for treatment on the day. See another provider for a second opinion first
- Don’t be lured by low prices. These costs could indicate cheap products, small amounts of product, do not have their own premises
- Make sure your practitioner is fully insured with a company specialising in medical aesthetics. Check what the procedure is if you have any concerns
For further advice, see the free guide to choosing a provider by Dr John Tanqueray, founder of Mulberry House Clinic.
Northamptonshire Cosmetic Treatments
Clients seeking cosmetic procedures in the Northampton area will be reassured to know that Dr John Tanqueray is a fully qualified former GP who has many years experience in providing cosmetic treatments.
He established Mulberry House Clinic based in Hardingstone near Northampton in 2003, over 15 years ago. His reputation is based on providing excellent advice to patients based on safety, best practice and a good result.
Dr John Tanqueray personally carries out detailed consultations prior to treatment and there is no pressure to have treatment until the patient is absolutely sure it is right for them. Dr Tanqueray administers all injections himself. He works closely with top manufacturers to stay at the forefront of product advancements and has provided training for other medical professionals in this capacity.
Mulberry House Clinic
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
