We’d all like to change something about our appearance whether it’s the shape of our nose or just our facial lines - but how can we ensure that we receive the best advice and the best quality treatment for great results? After all, the ‘trout pout’ sported by celebs like Leslie Ash and Meg Ryan, isn’t exactly the desired effect!
Which? have recently published a shocking report on various UK beauty and cosmetic clinics that routinely provide common non-surgical procedures such as Botox®, dermal fillers, and chemical peels – with some frightening results.
Poor consultations, exaggerated claims, unqualified staff, a failure to explain risks and possible side-effects are just some of the areas in which these very accessible clinics fall down, which is very worrying – especially in relation to Botox®.
Despite the fact that no brand has a UK licence for its cosmetic use, the popularity of Botox® as a non-surgical cosmetic treatment has been phenomenal. Indeed, it’s estimated that UK consumers will spend over £20 million on this treatment this year alone.
Remarkably, Botox® is in fact a prescription-only medicine and as such can only legally be prescribed by a doctor; yet the Which? report discovered that some clinics allow other staff members to consult with clients about this treatment.
A doctor must always see a client first, so that suitability can be assessed. The injection itself should be administered by the doctor or by a nurse acting under this doctor’s instruction. Ultimately, responsibility for the use of Botox® lies with the prescribing doctor as it’s illegal for beauty therapists and other non-medically trained clinic or salon employees to inject it.
Additionally, as a prescription medicine Botox? cannot be promoted directly to consumers. Therefore, so called “Botox® parties” which have been touted as a glitzy way to promote the product, are also illegal.
The majority of Botox® practitioners would agree that this is not the way to promote a prescription medicine which also requires a detailed medical history and consent process - especially with alcohol involved! However, the Which? report did actually come across such a party, offering a ‘buy one, get one free' incentive, which is also illegal for prescription medicines.
So back to the original question: how can you ensure that you will get the best quality advice and treatment?
If you do decide that you’d like to go ahead with a cosmetic or beauty procedure - surgical or non-surgical, it should be researched as much as possible.
By Ron Myers – MD of ConsultingRoom.com – a website dedicated to providing the latest news and information about any cosmetic or beauty treatment and procedure. All practitioners and clinics listed on the site are fully qualified and recognised by relevant industry bodies.