Scotland Seeks Public Input on Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedure Regulations

The Scottish Government is calling for public opinions on how to enhance the regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, aiming to bolster client safety. While independent healthcare clinics in Scotland are already under the watch of Healthcare Improvement Scotland, the broader UK sector remains largely unregulated.

With the rise in procedures that pierce and penetrate the skin, the government is keen to establish requirements that could mitigate risks associated with these increasingly popular treatments. This new consultation builds upon a previous one from 2020, offering a more detailed look at potential regulations.

Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, Jenni Minto, expressed concern over incidents where individuals have suffered due to poorly executed procedures. “It is distressing to hear of cases where people have suffered as a result of non-surgical cosmetic procedures going wrong,” she stated. Minto highlighted the current regulatory gaps that allow untrained individuals to perform many of these procedures. The consultation aims to gather diverse perspectives on how to address these issues. “We want to ensure procedures are carried out by appropriately qualified and skilled practitioners so that clients have peace of mind,” she added.

Professor David Sines CBE, Chair of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners, welcomed the government’s initiative. He believes the proposed regulations will significantly enhance consumer safety and reduce the risks of injury from improperly performed treatments. “Nothing is more important than public protection and patient safety,” he remarked, urging support for this move towards sensible regulation in the cosmetic sector.

Key proposals under consideration include establishing licensing requirements for practitioners, mandating accredited training, enforcing health and safety standards, ensuring informed client consent, and creating monitoring mechanisms for compliance. The consultation invites stakeholders, including practitioners and the public, to share their views on these proposals.

For more information and to participate in the consultation, visit the Scottish Government’s official website.