Cosmetic Medicine in Scotland: New Regulations Are Coming

Cosmetic medicine in Scotland is undergoing a major shake-up. From injectables like Botox and dermal fillers to other non-surgical aesthetic procedures, the landscape is changing to ensure safer, more accountable treatments. Here’s what you need to know.

Why: Risks and Safety Concerns Have Driven the Reforms

For years, cosmetic treatments in Scotland have operated in a largely unregulated environment. There was no strict legal requirement for medical qualifications, and some procedures were even offered to minors. This “grey area” created risks for patients, including infections, botched injections, and misuse of prescription-only medications.

Recent surveys by Scottish doctors revealed a growing number of complications from unregulated cosmetic treatments, highlighting the need for stronger oversight and regulation.

The New Legal Framework

The Scottish Government is introducing the Non-Surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill, aimed at regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures. The law will:

• Require qualified, registered practitioners to perform higher-risk procedures.

• Mandate treatments to take place in licensed and regulated clinics.

• Ban certain cosmetic procedures for under-18s.

• Establish a risk-based classification system for procedures:

  • Low-risk treatments (like some skin therapies) will require licensed premises and practitioners.

  • Injectables (fillers, Botox) must be performed by medically qualified professionals in regulated settings.

  • High-risk procedures (surgical-level enhancements or complex treatments) will face the strictest regulations.

Enforcement will be handled by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), which will have powers to inspect and sanction clinics that do not comply.

Timeline & Implementation: What to Expect Soon

• The Bill is expected to be introduced in the Scottish Parliament before May 2026.

• Once passed, clinics and practitioners will need to be licensed and compliant with the new rules.

• Practitioners will need to meet qualification standards depending on the risk level of procedures they perform.

What This Means for you

Once the law is in place:

• You’ll be able to identify qualified and licensed practitioners more easily.

• Clinics will be regulated and safer, reducing the risk of complications.

• Under-18s will largely be excluded from non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

As a consumer, it’s important to:

• Check that your provider is licensed under the new regulations.

• Ask about their qualifications and experience.

• Understand the risks, aftercare, and safety protocols before proceeding.

Looking Ahead

The new regulations mark a significant step forward in patient safety, accountability, and the professionalisation of cosmetic medicine in Scotland. If you’re considering any cosmetic procedures, stay informed and make safety your top priority.

About Safety in Aesthetics

ConsultingRoom.com is proud to lead the Safety in Aesthetics campaign – promoting high standards, transparency, and accountability across the non-surgical cosmetic industry. We believe everyone deserves access to safe, ethical, and medically supervised treatments.

🔎 Learn more about how we're raising standards and supporting patient safety:
👉 www.consultingroom.com/safety-in-aesthetics