Concerns are mounting in the aesthetics industry over the safety of treatments being offered by non-medical practitioners.
These concerns are not unfounded, as there is a surprising lack of control around the delivery of injectable treatments in the UK.
Media exposure has raised consumer awareness, but many clients are still having treatments from practitioners who lack any training or medical background at all, exposing them to risks.
In his recent newsletter, Dr John Tanqueray asked:
“Will the government finally bring in some regulation to the aesthetics ‘industry’?”
He outlined a number of issues:
It seems that literally anyone can now find a training course to become an aesthetic “expert”, and I’ve even heard of people doing a short course and then immediately setting up their own “training academy” to pass on their extensive knowledge and experience to others – their grammar, use of medical terminology and apparent levels of understanding can be truly cringeworthy.
We have pharmacies in this country who are issuing prescription medication to lay people without supervision.
There are reports of counterfeit products (fillers and toxins) being used. Researchers have analysed unofficial vials of botulinum toxin and found that vials that are labelled as containing 100 units may contain anything between 0 and 280 units; illegally imported fillers may also contain silicone oil which is known to cause problems (remember Lesley Ash who revealed her experience with this some years ago?).
A beautician was recently advertising fat transfer treatment, which is a plastic surgical procedure requiring operating theatre conditions.
These are just a few examples of the situation.
More information
- Apart from The Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021, which prevents under 18s from having cosmetic treatments, there has been very little change in the regulation of the industry
- Last summer, a group of MPs Call to Make Dermal Fillers ‘Prescription Only’, which would elevate safety for patients seeking treatment by requiring the involvement of a medical prescriber
- In 2013, a report known as the Keogh report made a series of observations and recommendations https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/review-of-the-regulation-of-cosmetic-interventions. The review stated that a person having a non-surgical procedure has ‘no more protection and redress than someone buying a ballpoint pen or a toothbrush’. It also surmised that dermal fillers were a ‘crisis waiting to happen’. As we approach the 10th anniversary of this report, the industry is hoping to see more change to protect consumers.
As numbers seeking non-surgical treatments has increased, so inevitably will the number of patients experiencing difficulties due to unregulated products and treatments.
Dr John Tanqueray concludes:
“So there definitely is a problem relating to public safety, and there is a government committee looking at this – what they will decide and enforce we can only wait and see, but in the past rules have been relaxed rather than tightened.
“In this environment it remains important that prospective patients think carefully about their choice of treatment and provider.
“In the meantime, we can assure you that our independent clinic works to high medical standards throughout. Mulberry House Clinic is an independent clinic with all treatments carried out by former GP and SRN John and Liz Tanqueray.
“We only offer clinically proven treatments that we believe to be safe and effective in helping our clients to get the improvements they’re looking for. Why not get in touch to chat about how we can help you?”
Trusted BOTOX & Dermal Fillers Providers
Mulberry House Clinic, Established 2003
Dr John Tanqueray MB BCh MRCGP DCH DRCOG DipOccMed BCAM, former GP and founder of Mulberry House Clinic, has nearly 20 years of experience in the non-surgical treatments industry and has provided thousands of successful treatments over the years. He has also worked as a trainer, helping other medical professionals to learn the skills and best practice in cosmetic treatments. He works alongside top brand manufacturers on the latest new products.
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.
