Scotland Implements Strict Ban on Botox and Fillers for Under-18s
In a decisive move to protect young people, Scotland is set to outlaw Botox and other risky cosmetic procedures for individuals under the age of 18. This landmark legislation, backed unanimously by MSPs, introduces the toughest regulations in the UK, despite warnings that it could devastate hundreds of businesses across the nation.
Unanimous Support for Enhanced Safety Measures
The Non-Surgical Procedures Bill has received overwhelming support from Scottish Parliament members, with the aim of enacting it into law by the upcoming May election. This new framework will mandate that only qualified health professionals can perform or supervise invasive cosmetic treatments, effectively ending the current unregulated landscape north of the Border.
Unlike England, where similar restrictions were introduced in 2021, Scotland has previously operated without minimum age requirements or mandatory medical qualifications for practitioners. The new Bill will also introduce licensing for laser treatments, establishing a clear minimum age of 18 for all non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
Addressing Grave Health Risks and Tragic Incidents
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto emphasised the urgent need for these regulations, highlighting the severe complications associated with cosmetic fillers and Botox injections. "Many people who undergo those procedures are happy with the results and there are many responsible practitioners," she stated. "However, I have heard a number of powerful accounts of those procedures going wrong, including the tragic death in England of a young mother."
Cosmetic fillers, designed to add volume to the face, lips, and cheeks, can lead to catastrophic outcomes when administered improperly. Documented complications include blocked blood vessels, serious infections, permanent blindness, and even strokes. The Bill aims to ensure that all procedures are conducted in hygienic settings with healthcare professionals present to manage any emergencies.
Political Consensus and Business Concerns
Tory health spokesman Dr. Sandesh Gulhane voiced strong support for the legislation, asserting that patient safety must be paramount. He condemned the prevalence of "fizz and filler parties" in Scotland, where individuals consume alcohol before receiving injections, describing it as "the worst way of doing medical procedures." He also raised alarms about untrained individuals removing skin lesions without proper cancer screening.
However, the Bill has faced criticism from some quarters regarding its potential economic impact. Tory MSP Maurice Golden warned that up to 1,800 female-led businesses could face closure as a result of the new regulations. Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton expressed concerns that experienced practitioners might be "regulated out of their profession." In response, Ms. Minto clarified that she did not recognise the specific business closure figures cited.
Broader UK Context and Safety Alerts
The move aligns with growing safety concerns across the UK. Last year, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued warnings about counterfeit Botox products being sold illegally. In September, the MHRA Criminal Enforcement Unit launched multiple criminal investigations following a surge in hospital admissions linked to unlicensed products.
Between June and August 2025, England reported 41 confirmed cases of botulism—a rare but life-threatening condition causing paralysis—across regions including the North East, East Midlands, East of England, North West, and Yorkshire and Humber. These incidents underscore the critical need for robust regulatory frameworks to prevent further harm.
By implementing these stringent measures, Scotland aims to set a new standard for cosmetic procedure safety, ensuring that young people are protected from irreversible harm while promoting responsible practice within the industry.
