BABTAC Unveils T.I.M.E initiative at The Scottish Parliament

BABTAC CEO Lesley Blair MBE has been working with Scottish government groups on the issue as a stakeholder of the Cosmetics Informed and Empowered Public Sub-Group. It is thought that Scottish legislation may take effect before that in England (which is currently delayed due to the change in government). This means that potentially Scotland will lead the way in the regulation of UK aesthetics, making the region an important case study for future industry implementation.

Currently, lack of legislation in the beauty industry means there is nothing to stop someone with little or no training from establishing themselves as a seemingly professional therapist.

The Scottish Government is seeking to regulate certain procedures with a consultation process currently underway. This legislation will focus predominantly on non-surgical cosmetic options such as dermal fillers, liposuction, botulinum toxin, weight loss injections, ablative lasers and other advanced aesthetic treatments.

Although these treatments indeed pose harm to consumer safety when carried out by individuals without fit for purpose qualifications, other treatments that may be deemed ‘low-risk’ also require appropriate training. Worryingly, a huge number of individuals with inadequate or no training carry out beauty treatments in Scotland each year, often with a negative outcome, ranging from clients not getting the results they hoped for through to injury and lasting damage.

With Scottish beauty so integral to the wider industry, March 2025 sees BABTAC take the T.I.M.E initiative to the Scottish Parliament. A consumer safety initiative backed by MSPs, influential bodies and key figures across the industry, to ensure consumers get the best possible experience and better protect themselves.

T.I.M.E provides the framework necessary to ensure that consumers are aware of what to be mindful of when booking a service with a beauty professional. The initiative will be presented at The Scottish Parliament with beauty champion, BABTAC CEO Lesley Blair MBE, legendary Caroline Hirons, Founder of Skin Rocks, Managing Director of iconic spa brand, Guinot, Myriam Welsh and owner of award-winning salon, Urban Retreat and The Academy College, Jenny Storey.

Lesley Blair MBE, CEO at BABTAC says, “We’re thrilled to take the TIME initiative to Scotland. The lack of regulation in our industry has left consumers vulnerable to unsafe practices, leading to a rise in ‘botched’ beauty treatments in recent years. This regulatory checklist is designed to be a straightforward yet powerful tool, helping consumers make informed choices by selecting evidence- based, professional services that are fit for purpose - while minimising any risk.”

So how can consumers be sure that they’re in safe hands when going for a beauty treatment? A regulatory checklist to arm people with the questions to ask, T.I.M.E aims to help people know what to be aware of when booking in for treatments and help them to choose evidence-based, professional fit for purpose services, whilst minimising any risk:

Training – What training and qualifications, including continual professional development (CPD) do you and all your staff have?

Insurance – Are you insured & who by?

Monitoring – Do you carry out important pre and post appointment processes such as patch tests, consultations & aftercare?

Evidence – Can you provide certified proof of training, insurance and client testimonials?