A recent survey found that one-third of Scottish doctors have treated patients suffering from complications linked to cosmetic procedures, sparking fresh calls for stricter regulations. Alarming cases include a 16-year-old experiencing adverse effects from facial fillers, highlighting concerns over the accessibility of such treatments to minors.
At present, Scotland lacks legal requirements for medical qualifications when administering dermal fillers and injectables. Additionally, there are no age restrictions preventing under-18s from undergoing such procedures. This regulatory gap has led to an environment where unlicensed individuals can perform treatments using products of varying quality and safety standards.
Scottish Government Proposes Regulatory Framework
In response to mounting concerns, the Scottish Government launched a public consultation in December 2024 aimed at creating a structured framework for regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures. The proposed system classifies treatments by risk level:
- Low-risk procedures – Treatments that do not require medical expertise will remain unregulated.
- Higher-risk procedures – Those with potential health risks may require stricter oversight, including mandatory licensing and medical supervision.
Calls for Stricter Regulations on Injectables
Medical professionals have urged the government to impose tighter controls on facial fillers and Botox, warning that botched procedures can lead to infection, nerve damage, and long-term scarring. Critics argue that unregulated treatments are exploiting young people who are increasingly influenced by social media beauty standards.
Dr. Sarah McAllister, a Glasgow-based dermatologist, said:
“We see patients with lumps, infections, and serious allergic reactions because fillers are being injected by people with little to no medical training. Without regulation, we are risking public health.”
The UK’s Inconsistent Approach to Aesthetic Medicine
Scotland’s lack of regulation contrasts sharply with rules in England, where since 2021, under-18s have been legally barred from receiving Botox and dermal fillers. However, there are still no national licensing laws in place, allowing beauticians and non-medical practitioners to continue offering treatments.
In Scotland, pressure is growing for a licensing system similar to that introduced for cosmetic surgery clinics in 2016, which requires independent facilities offering invasive treatments to be regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS). Experts argue that similar oversight should apply to injectables, given their potential for serious harm.
Public Opinion and Next Steps
With the Scottish Government’s consultation period now underway, public feedback will shape the final regulations, which could include age restrictions, licensing requirements, and product safety measures.
Consumer watchdogs and healthcare professionals are urging policymakers to act swiftly, emphasizing that Scotland has had its fill of dangerous cosmetic procedures.
