The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has launched a public consultation on proposals to limit the provision of certain “high-risk” cosmetic procedures to prescribing healthcare professionals such as IP pharmacists, dentists and nurses.
The proposals cover procedures including administering fillers to body parts other than the face – such as Brazilian Butt Lifts, or BBLs – deep chemical peels, subcision, ‘non-resorbable’ or permanent fillers, intravenous procedures and any treatment requiring the use of an anaesthetic as a separate injection.
Cosmetic surgery and BBLs would be restricted to doctors only.
Any breach of the proposed regulations would be a criminal offence, with penalties such as fines “of any amount” or prison sentences imposed on those who carry out the listed procedures without CQC registration. Providers who allow the procedures to be carried out by an unqualified individual could also face steep fines.
The DHSC said: “It is important that anyone performing a high-risk procedure has independent prescribing responsibilities.
“This is because some treatments require the use of prescription medications, either in the course of the procedure itself or in any secondary procedure that might be required, such as for treating any complications arising from the initial procedure.
“In addition, timely access to prescription medications is needed to respond to emergencies or complications, such as adrenaline in the event of anaphylaxis or hyaluronidase to dissolve dermal fillers to prevent medical issues such as vascular occlusion and necrosis.”
Health minister Karin Smyth said: “We are clear on the principles of safe practice and the need for further regulation, but we want to make sure that government action is proportionate and enforceable.
“We must protect the public from harm while not unnecessarily restricting the activities of legitimate businesses.
“We have taken the decision to focus first on the procedures posing the highest risks.
“This represents a significant step forward for safety in this industry. “Licensing of high street treatments will subsequently go further in providing assurance for individuals so that they can make safe choices.”
The 12-week consultation closes at 11:59pm on January 13, 2027, with the Government planning to lay draft regulations next spring.
The Government also said it “remains committed” to introduce a licensing scheme for clinics delivering botulinum toxin products, “putting an end to backyard Botox clinics”.
Related: MHRA updates botulinum toxin warning after ‘rare’ botulism cases
