Botox providers in UK will now a need license
Ministers say they want to crackdown on what they're calling "cosmetic cowboys"
Last updated 1st Mar 2022
Botox and filler providers in the UK will now need to have licences under new government plans to get tough on "cosmetic cowboys" after rising numbers of botched procedures.
The licensing scheme would aim to bring in consistent standards that people carrying out non-surgical cosmetic procedures must meet. It would also set out hygiene and safety standards for premises.
Protecting 'patients from potential harm'
Health Secretary Sajid Javid outlined his commitment to making it an offence to perform such non-surgical work without a licence, saying:
"We're doing all we can to protect patients from potential harm, but I urge anyone considering a cosmetic procedure to take the time to think about the impact on both their physical and mental health and ensure they are using a reputable, safe and qualified practitioner."
Social media images have led to rising demand for fillers
Minister for Patient Safety Maria Caulfield said the spread of images online via social media has led to a rise in demand for Botox and fillers and there had been a subsequent increase in people suffering the consequences of badly-performed procedures.
She added:
"While these can be administered safely, we are seeing an unacceptable rise in people being left physically and mentally scarred from poorly performed procedures.
"Today's amendment is the next step on the road to effective regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England."
Details on the public consultation on non-surgical cosmetic procedures are expected to be set out at a later date.