Scottish Government to Regulate Aesthetic Treatments by Spring 2026

The Scottish Government has announced it is planning legislation to regulate non-surgical cosmetic treatments, with formal regulations expected by Spring 2026. This marks a significant step in addressing the safety concerns surrounding the growing aesthetic industry, which includes popular treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, and laser therapies. The new legislation will impose stricter standards on practitioners, ensuring they are qualified and that clinics meet rigorous safety protocols.

Over the past decade, Scotland has seen a dramatic rise in demand for non-surgical cosmetic treatments. However, unlike surgical procedures, these treatments have operated in a largely unregulated space, exposing clients to significant risks. Many treatments are performed by individuals with limited or no medical training, leading to complications such as infections, allergic reactions, and disfigurement. Consumer protection groups have long called for tighter control over this industry, especially as social media continues to promote these treatments as quick fixes for aesthetic concerns.

Public Health Minister Maree Todd stated, "The popularity of these treatments has skyrocketed, and it’s crucial that we ensure safe and regulated practices are in place. This legislation will help protect consumers and enhance the professionalism of the industry".

The government's decision follows consultation with healthcare professionals, industry stakeholders, and consumer advocacy groups, all of whom agree that regulation is long overdue.

Although the detailed framework is still being developed, several key areas are expected to be addressed by the upcoming legislation:

1. Practitioner Qualifications: One of the primary goals of the new regulation is to ensure that only trained and certified professionals can offer non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Practitioners will be required to complete accredited courses specific to the procedures they offer. For example, injectables like Botox or dermal fillers will likely require a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and injection techniques. Moreover, the Scottish Government may follow the example of England, where only healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and dentists are permitted to perform these treatments​.

2. Licensing and Registration: Practitioners and clinics will need to be registered with a national regulatory body, such as Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), or possibly a new body created specifically to oversee aesthetic procedures. This body will be responsible for maintaining a database of qualified practitioners and conducting regular audits to ensure compliance with safety standards​.

3. Clinic Safety and Hygiene: The new legislation will likely require clinics to follow strict hygiene and safety protocols. Clinics may need to meet higher standards for cleanliness, sterilisation, and the maintenance of equipment, particularly in settings where invasive treatments are performed. Regular inspections are expected to ensure these standards are met.

4. Informed Consent: Another crucial aspect of the regulation will be enhancing patient safety by ensuring that clients are fully informed about the risks, benefits, and potential complications of any treatment. Practitioners will be required to provide detailed consultations, where they will assess the client’s suitability for the procedure and discuss expected outcomes and risks​.

5. Mandatory Insurance: To protect clients, practitioners will likely be required to hold valid insurance that covers malpractice and potential harm caused by procedures. This move will give clients greater confidence, knowing they are protected in case of adverse outcomes.

6. Enforcement and Penalties: The legislation is expected to introduce strict enforcement mechanisms, including penalties for non-compliance. Unqualified or unregistered practitioners could face significant fines, legal consequences, or even closure of their businesses. The government plans to allow a transitional period for existing practitioners and clinics to meet these standards before full enforcement begins​.

The introduction of this regulation is expected to have far-reaching effects on the aesthetic industry. While many consumer advocacy groups and healthcare professionals have welcomed the move, some practitioners and smaller clinics have expressed concerns about the cost of compliance. Adapting to the new standards—such as acquiring new qualifications, improving clinic safety, and purchasing insurance—could place a financial strain on smaller businesses.

However, proponents of the regulation argue that these costs are necessary to ensure public safety and protect consumers from unscrupulous practitioners. The Scottish Government is also optimistic that regulation will elevate the professionalism of the industry, making Scotland a leader in safe, high-quality aesthetic care.

The Scottish Government's decision to regulate the aesthetic industry has been met with widespread support from both the public and industry professionals. By setting new safety and professional standards, the legislation will help to create a more transparent and trustworthy environment for consumers seeking aesthetic treatments.