Did you know that currently in the UK, you don't legally need a license to perform procedures such as Botox or filler injections? In fact, there is no official industry regulation or qualification standard for non-surgical cosmetic procedures – an issue that many respected practitioners have campaigned against for some time.
But finally, the UK government is taking steps to regulate the aesthetics industry, announcing an amendment to the Health and Care Bill which intends to introduce a licence for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as Botox and fillers.
It comes after the recent introduction of other new laws surrounding non-surgical cosmetic procedures, which saw it become illegal to administer such treatments to under 18 year-olds and banning all adverts on the matter which target under 18s.
Health and social care secretary Sajid Javid said that the legislation will make it "an offence for someone to perform these cosmetic procedures without a licence," adding: "While most of those in the aesthetics industry follow good practice when it comes to patient safety, far too many people have been left emotionally and physically scarred after botched cosmetic procedures."
"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."
According to the government, the new licensing will also introduce consistent standards that practitioners carrying out non-surgical cosmetic procedures will have to meet, as well as hygiene and safety standards for premises.
Advanced facial aesthetics doctor Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, known as @theaestheticsdoctor on Instagram, welcomes the news. He told GLAMOUR: "I think this will be amazing for patient safety and protecting vulnerable patients from rogue injectors – and people that have not got the medical training to be able to inject – but more importantly it's about dealing with the complications and this is where medical training comes in.
Source:
Glamour Magazine
