Parliament has passed the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021, a Private Members’ Bill (ballot bill) which prevents anyone under the age of 18 from having injectable treatments such as botulinum toxin (BOTOX®) or dermal fillers.
Parliament passed the bill to prevent underage aesthetic treatments on 28th April 2021 and it was given Royal Assent on 29th April; making it an Act of Parliament with immediate effect.
While the practice may have been frowned upon before, it is now illegal to give cosmetic injections to anyone under the age of 18.
Sharon Bennett is Chair of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN) and Aesthetics Clinical Advisory Board member. She welcomed the news, saying:
“Legislation in cosmetic medical practice is long overdue.
“We have legislation in place to prevent under 18s from having a tattoo or a sunbed session, so it is astonishing that legislation has not been in place for this age group from the use of botulinum toxin and fillers. Children should be prevented access to these treatments to protect them from themselves and social pressures, unscrupulous practitioners and from those without a medical qualification.
“The Bill is therefore a welcome step and, as Chair of the BACN, I fully support it.”
Dr John Tanqueray, former GP and founder of Mulberry House Clinic, has also welcomed the news.
“We are delighted to hear that under 18s will no longer be allowed to have cosmetic injections. Even at the age of 18, such treatments are often not suitable or appropriate. Clients under 25 very rarely have any noticeable signs of ageing.
“The demand in younger clients has tended to lean towards the type of injection that adds volume to lips or cheekbones; emulating the looks seen in the media. Yet the injectable products that deliver the plumping are really designed for replenishing lost volume in older skin.
“We welcome the news that under 18s are no longer able to access these treatments, but we’d also urge anyone under the age of 25 to think carefully about the way in which they use cosmetic injections. Always choose a respected and experienced clinician and don’t be persuaded to do too much too soon.”
Find out more about the bill and its stages at https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/2620.
For more information about dermal fillers, Dr Tanqueray has produced a comprehensive guide Secrets to Successful Dermal Filler Treatment, which explains every aspect of choosing safely and sensibly.
Northamptonshire Cosmetic Treatments Doctor
Dr John Tanqueray MB BCh MRCGP DCH DRCOG DipOccMed BCAM is a former GP who has been working in the cosmetic treatments industry for over 18 years.
He established Mulberry House Clinic in 2003 and the company has an excellent reputation for providing the best medical advice, putting patient safety above all other concerns.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with vast experience of the industry. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who works closely with leading manufacturers to remain at the forefront of the medical aesthetics.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
