New Plan to Target Unregulated Cosmetic Procedure Providers

New Regulations Target “Cowboy” Cosmetic Procedures

Ministers have introduced new plans to curb the rise of unregulated and potentially dangerous cosmetic procedures, commonly referred to as “cowboy” treatments. These measures aim to restrict who can access and provide such treatments, with the goal of preventing serious harm and even deaths linked to poor-quality care.

Recent reports have highlighted a growing concern over botulism cases tied to botulinum toxin-based procedures. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that 41 individuals have suffered severe reactions after undergoing cosmetic treatments involving botulinum toxin. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, and breathing problems. Cases have been reported across several regions, including the North East, East Midlands, East of England, North West, and Yorkshire and Humber.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has emphasized the need to protect people from untrained individuals offering invasive procedures in unsafe environments such as homes, hotels, and pop-up clinics. These so-called “rogue operators” often lack proper medical training, putting patients at significant risk.

Proposed Changes to Cosmetic Regulation

To address these concerns, the DHSC has outlined several key proposals:

• Only health workers who are “suitably qualified” will be allowed to perform high-risk procedures like Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs).
• These professionals must work under the supervision of providers regulated by the Care Quality Commission.
• Violations of these rules could result in sanctions from the watchdog and financial penalties.
• Clinics offering Botox and fillers must obtain a license from local authorities, meeting specific standards to ensure safety.
• Age restrictions will be introduced to prevent minors from engaging in high-risk procedures, unless authorized by a health professional.

The government will also launch a consultation next year to determine which procedures should be included in the new regulations.

A Tragic Case Highlights the Need for Change

The push for stricter regulations comes in the wake of a tragic incident involving Alice Webb, a 33-year-old from Gloucestershire who died in 2024 after undergoing a BBL. Her partner, Dane Knight, believes that the proposed changes could have saved her life. He expressed hope that the new rules will prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Leading medics have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that only surgeons should be permitted to perform BBLs or any procedure designed for breast, buttock, or genital augmentation. They warn that untrained practitioners can cause catastrophic damage, sometimes leading to death.

Concerns About Unregulated Practices

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute recently raised alarms about the availability of unlicensed cosmetic procedures, such as fat injections, BBLs, Botox, and fillers, being offered in public toilets and other unsanitary locations. This has further underscored the need for tighter oversight.

Before the new regulations take effect, the government is urging individuals seeking cosmetic treatments to verify the qualifications and insurance of their providers. It also advises caution when encountering suspiciously low prices, which may indicate substandard or unsafe services.

Reactions from Industry Leaders

Health Minister Karin Smyth described the current state of the cosmetics industry as a “Wild West” of unscrupulous practitioners. She emphasized that the government’s plan aims to protect patients, support ethical practitioners, and eliminate unsafe practices.

Millie Kendall, chief executive of the British Beauty Council, welcomed the move, stating that increased protection and professionalization of the industry would help build public confidence and reduce the occurrence of horror stories.

Ashton Collins, director of Save Face, praised the government for recognizing the risks associated with procedures like liquid BBLs. He highlighted the devastating impact such treatments can have on families, referencing the case of Alice Webb.

Tim Mitchell, president of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, stressed the importance of medical oversight in ensuring patient safety. He called for stricter regulation of surgical procedures, ensuring only certified surgeons can perform them.

Nora Nugent, president of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, expressed cautious optimism about the proposed changes. She emphasized the need for clear guidelines on which practitioners will be subject to the new regulations and how high-risk procedures will be restricted.

Overall, the new regulations represent a significant step forward in improving safety and accountability within the cosmetic industry. However, ongoing efforts will be necessary to ensure that all procedures meet the highest standards of care.