Scotland passes new law to regulate cosmetic procedures like Botox
Treatments such as chemical peels, dermal fillers and microneedling will now need to be carried out by a qualified professional in a regulated setting such as a hospital.
New rules to regulate cosmetic procedures such as Botox are to come into force across Scotland.
MSPs in the Scottish Parliament passed the Non-surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill by 124 votes on Tuesday night. No MSP voted against the government bill.
The new law bans non-surgical treatments such as chemical peels, dermal fillers and microneedling for all under-18s, and restricts them to approved healthcare settings only. Under the new law, the procedures can only be carried out if they are overseen by a qualified professional like a doctor or a nurse.
Currently there is no requirement for those offering these procedures to undergo any training. The Scottish Government estimates there could be up to 1,500 businesses carrying out unregulated procedures across the country.
Advice Direct Scotland previously told The Scotsman it had received over 430 complaints in the past two years from women who have been left scarred by cosmetic procedures gone wrong, sometimes for life.
This includes damaged eyesight, women being left with threads sticking out of their head, and women having to seek medical treatment after being injected with water instead of Botox in a hairdresser’s shed.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “Non-surgical cosmetic procedures are increasingly popular, and when not carried out safely they can cause serious and lasting harm.
“This legislation is designed to ensure that higher-risk procedures take place in appropriate settings with a healthcare professional present, and that under-18s are properly protected.
“These are meaningful, proportionate changes that put public safety first.”
She said the government will support businesses to adapt to meet these new requirements by September 2027.
Ms Minto said: “The bill is designed to be responsive to changes in the industry, and the procedures will be kept under review to ensure the list remains effective and proportionate.
“I am incredibly grateful to everyone who campaigned so passionately on this issue - their determination has helped shape stronger legislation.”
Under the new law it will become an offence to deliver treatments to those under the age of 18 or perform them outside a permitted premises. Permitted premises will be restricted to NHS GP practices, dentists and pharmacies, and private hospitals and clinics that are registered with Healthcare Improvement Scotland.
The maximum fine is £20,000.
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