Better controls for Botox, fillers and cosmetic surgery
The Scottish Government has revealed proposals for new regulations around aesthetic procedures in a bid to stop the ‘cowboy’ operators.
Key points of the plan are:
- Laser and microneedling treatment will require premise licence for the clinic/salon and individual licences for practitioners. These licenses will be managed at local authority level
- Injectable treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers as well as surgical procedures such as breast augmentation or facial rejuvenation surgery will have to be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional in a setting regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS)
- Minimum age of 18 for all procedures
This is welcome news for those who have been campaigning for better regulations in the market.
It remains surprising and indeed shocking to learn that in the UK, anyone can carry out the procedures without formal training.
Public health minister Jenni Minto said:
“It is deeply upsetting to hear of cases where people have suffered as a result of non-surgical cosmetic procedures going wrong.
“The current gaps in regulation mean that anyone can perform most of these procedures without the need for any formal training or qualifications.
“These proposals reflect our determination to protect the public and ensure high standards across this growing industry.
“I am particularly heartened by the broad support for action to make the sector safer, and we will continue to work closely with Healthcare Improvement Scotland, local authorities, and the wider industry to support a smooth and effective implementation.”
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has agreed there was a need for urgent Government action over unregulated and unlicensed practitioners and treatments, alongside where they can be offered. This followed reports of cosmetic injections and even surgery being offered by untrained people in unregulated premises.
Where to find reputable treatment
Dr John Tanqueray MB BCh MRCGP DCH DRCOG DipOccMed BCAM has over 20 years experience in the skin treatment industry, as well as extensive medical experience as a former GP.
He has already shared his thoughts on the need for better regulation in the UK medical aesthetics industry as a whole in his blog Expert Predicts Aesthetics Regulation.
As Scotland moves towards better regulation, it is hoped that the UK medical aesthetics industry will also see regulation to improve patient safety.
In the meantime, the situation means that it is essential to consult with a qualified and experienced healthcare provider for anti-ageing and aesthetic treatments. Choose someone who has additional training and experience in carrying out these injections.
Dr John Tanqueray has also produced a free document, which gives excellent advice and information.
→ Guide To Choosing Your Treatment Provider
Contact Mulberry House Clinic for a skin assessment and consultation with Dr John Tanqueray.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with over 19 years experience. Dr John Tanqueray is a former GP who can assess and diagnose skin conditions from a medical perspective before suggesting the most appropriate treatments.
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 your 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.
