Scotland Unveils Bill to Regulate Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

The Scottish Government has unveiled the Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill, aiming to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for aesthetic treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers. This initiative responds to growing concerns about unregulated practitioners and the associated risks to public health.

The proposed legislation introduces a tiered licensing system based on the risk level of procedures. Practitioners will be required to obtain appropriate qualifications, and all treatment premises must be licensed. Additionally, the bill mandates compulsory insurance for practitioners and sets age restrictions for certain procedures. Enforcement powers will be granted to local authorities to ensure compliance.

Under the new framework, non-surgical cosmetic procedures will only be permitted in facilities regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) or licensed by local councils. This move aims to enhance oversight and ensure that treatments are carried out in safe and hygienic environments by qualified professionals.

The bill follows a public consultation launched in December 2024, which closed in February 2025. The consultation sought views on how best to regulate non-surgical cosmetic procedures, with a focus on improving safety and professional standards. The results of the consultation are expected by the end of June.

Public Health Minister Jenni Minto highlighted the increasing visibility of non-surgical cosmetic procedures on high streets and the lack of comprehensive regulation in the sector. She emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that individuals undergoing cosmetic procedures have the right to expect treatments performed by appropriately trained practitioners using reputable products in hygienic premises.

Industry professionals have welcomed the proposed legislation. Jackie Partridge, an independent nurse prescriber and member of the Aesthetics Clinical Advisory Board, stated that the bill represents a significant step forward in protecting the public and improving standards. Frances Turner Traill, another independent nurse prescriber, shared her support, noting that the legislation would help prevent complications arising from procedures performed by unlicensed practitioners.

The Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill is scheduled to be introduced in the Scottish Parliament in March, ahead of the next year's election. It is one of five non-financial bills outlined in First Minister John Swinney's Programme for Government. The government aims to implement the new regulations to enhance public safety and ensure high standards in the rapidly growing aesthetics industry.