The Need for Regulation in Aesthetic and Beauty Treatments
PBL Columnist, Dr. Mo Hamed, is a highly sought-after aesthetic practitioner, he began his career with a Dental Honours Degree from Cardiff University and has extensive experience in a Head and Neck Oral and Maxillofacial Unit. With advanced training from world-renowned experts, he has performed thousands of aesthetic treatments and pioneered unique techniques at Dr. Motox Clinics. Specialising in advanced procedures such as liquid rhinoplasty, Dr. Hamed is recognised for his expertise and innovative approach, making him a leading figure in the aesthetics industry. He also continues to practice dentistry within the NHS.
With the surge in popularity of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, many people are turning to treatments that promise enhanced appearance with little to no recovery time. From injectables like botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox) and dermal fillers to advanced skin therapies, the variety of options is ever-expanding. However, the rapid growth of this industry highlights a significant issue: a concerning lack of regulation. Without robust oversight, consumers are exposed to unsafe practices, with potentially serious consequences.
More and more patients are facing complications post treatment, with the recent death of Alice Webb a tragic, but foretold consequence. The aesthetics industry urgently needs regulation and consumers must be aware of the associated risks. Ensuring that the professionals entrusted with your appearance are adequately trained and held accountable is crucial for your safety and well-being.
In the healthcare sector, medical professionals are required to adhere to strict guidelines to ensure patient safety. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the aesthetics industry. The absence of a clear regulatory framework has created an environment where individuals with little to no medical training can legally carry out procedures that carry inherent risks. This leaves consumers vulnerable to receiving treatments from practitioners who may lack vital knowledge about anatomy, safety protocols, or the management of complications.
For instance, treatments involving botulinum toxin and dermal fillers can result in severe side effects if not administered correctly. Yet, there are few laws governing who can legally perform these procedures. While doctors, nurses, and dentists undergo rigorous medical training, non-medical practitioners may not always meet the same standards. The inconsistency in training makes it challenging for consumers to discern whether the person administering their treatment is properly qualified.
Moreover, the quality of training provided by beauty academies varies greatly. Some institutions remain unregulated, offering courses that may not sufficiently educate practitioners on the risks and responsibilities associated with performing aesthetic treatments. Without a standardised certification system, consumers have no guarantee that their practitioner has received the necessary training to carry out procedures safely.
Why Government Action is Essential
As a medical professional, I have been actively advocating for regulation in the aesthetics industry. Despite raising concerns with the government, there has been little response. The urgent need for regulatory reform remains unmet, leaving patients at risk of undergoing unregulated treatments with potentially devastating outcomes.
Several high-profile cases have already emerged where patients have suffered serious harm – some even losing their lives – due to poorly performed procedures. These incidents underscore the need for regulation, highlighting that many of these tragedies could have been prevented had the appropriate safeguards been in place. It is evident that immediate action is required to protect consumers from unnecessary harm.
One of the most pressing concerns in the aesthetics industry is the allowance of non-medical practitioners to perform procedures that can lead to severe complications. Many beauty therapists and other unqualified individuals are carrying out treatments that demand a deep understanding of human anatomy and its associated risks. Unlike doctors or nurses, these practitioners are not held to the same standard of care, and there are few legal repercussions for malpractice.
This lack of accountability leaves consumers vulnerable to choosing practitioners who are not adequately trained. Some non-medical practitioners may even wear medical attire or display certificates, making it difficult for consumers to discern between qualified professionals and those who are undertrained.
Procedures such as botulinum toxin injections and dermal fillers should only be administered by medically trained professionals due to the risks involved. Even a small error can lead to serious health issues, including vision impairment, respiratory difficulties, or, in extreme cases, death. By ensuring that only qualified professionals perform these treatments, patients can be confident that their safety is prioritised.
Many other nations have already implemented regulations to safeguard patient safety in the aesthetics industry. In countries such as Australia, Canada, and several European nations, practitioners are required to undergo specific training and obtain certification before offering cosmetic procedures. These regulations are designed to protect patients by ensuring that those carrying out treatments understand the risks and are equipped to manage any complications effectively.
Even some countries with less developed healthcare systems, which attract medical tourists, have established regulatory frameworks to ensure that practitioners meet minimum safety standards. In contrast, the UK remains significantly behind, with no clear regulations in place. This not only jeopardises patient safety but also undermines the credibility of the UK’s aesthetics industry.
What Needs to Change?
To protect patients and secure the future of the aesthetics industry, the government must take swift action to implement the following measures:
Establish Clear Practitioner Qualifications: Only qualified medical professionals should be authorised to perform high-risk procedures such as injectables. This will ensure that practitioners have the necessary training in anatomy, safety protocols, and potential complications.
Standardise Training and Certification: A national curriculum should be introduced for all training academies, guaranteeing that all practitioners receive proper education on performing procedures safely. This will give consumers confidence that their chosen practitioner has been adequately trained.
Hold Non-Medical Practitioners Accountable: Legal consequences should be enforced for non-medical practitioners who offer unsafe treatments. This will ensure that those performing high-risk procedures are responsible for their actions.
Create a Regulatory Body: A governing body should be established to oversee qualifications, standards, and practices within the aesthetics industry. This would ensure consistent regulation and accountability across the sector.
The aesthetics industry has the potential to enhance people’s lives by offering non-surgical solutions to improve appearance and confidence. However, without proper regulation, consumers are left vulnerable to unsafe practices and unnecessary risks. Tragically, we have already seen the consequences of this lack of oversight, with patients suffering injuries and even losing their lives due to poor practice.
As a consumer, it’s essential that you ensure the practitioner you choose is properly qualified and accountable. Always ask questions about their qualifications, training, and experience before undergoing any treatment. Look for practitioners who are registered medical professionals and who can provide evidence of their credentials.
We can’t afford to wait any longer for change. It’s time for the government to step in and implement regulations that will protect consumers and ensure the safety and integrity of the aesthetics industry. Until then, the responsibility lies with all of us to make informed choices and demand better from the professionals we trust with our beauty treatments. Your safety should always come first.
