Scotland Cracks Down on Unlicensed Botox & Fillers

Scotland is set to implement stricter regulations for beauty treatments that involve piercing or penetrating the skin, including Botox and dermal fillers. The proposed bill aims to ensure all such procedures are conducted in hygienic settings by qualified practitioners, utilizing approved products. This legislative move addresses growing concerns about the availability and administration of unlicensed cosmetic treatments, particularly Botox, which is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.

Currently, doctors and nurses report that beauticians are sourcing unapproved Botox online and administering it in various settings, including salons and private homes. Consumer Scotland has emphasized the need for accessible compensation mechanisms for individuals who experience issues with these treatments. Similar regulations, such as the ban on under-18s receiving fillers or Botox, have already been enacted in England since 2021.

The bill is progressing through Scotland's legislative process, with the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee scrutinizing its details. The Scottish government's focus is on developing a framework that guarantees high standards, safety, and professional conduct within the beauty and wellbeing sector, aligning with international practices that restrict such procedures to trained health professionals.