Our response to the Government’s proposed cosmetic treatment restrictions

We welcome the Government’s announcement of proposed restrictions on high-risk cosmetic procedures in England. This is an important step towards stronger patient protection and clearer standards across the aesthetics sector. [1] [2]

Choosing a cosmetic treatment should be an informed decision. Patients deserve to understand the risks, know who will be treating them and feel confident that their practitioner has the appropriate qualifications and procedure-specific training. They should also know what aftercare is available and how complications would be managed.

What is being proposed?

The proposals would restrict certain high-risk procedures to specified healthcare professionals. Injections of fillers into parts of the body other than the face, including liquid Brazilian Butt Lifts, would be legally classified as cosmetic surgical procedures and restricted to doctors. [1] [2]

Other high-risk treatments, including deep chemical peels and certain laser procedures, would be restricted to doctors, dentists and independent prescribing nurses, midwives and pharmacists. These proposals do not mean that every practitioner in those professional groups is automatically competent to perform every treatment. Procedure-specific training, competence and working within an appropriate scope of practice remain essential. [2]

The proposals also include protections to prevent under-18s from accessing the high-risk cosmetic procedures covered by the regulations, with exceptions for NHS provision or treatment of a medical condition by a healthcare professional. These would sit alongside existing legal restrictions on cosmetic botulinum toxin and filler treatments for under-18s. [1] [2]

Professional registration is only part of patient protection

We support the principle that the level of regulation should reflect the risk of the procedure. Professional registration matters, but it must be accompanied by relevant training, clinical competence and appropriate safeguards.

As a clinic registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) since 2022, we have seen first-hand the value of clear policies that are consistently implemented, regular clinical audit and independent inspection. These safeguards help identify risks, strengthen accountability and support continual improvement in the clinical environment—with patient safety at the centre.

Clear information, informed consent and responsible aftercare are essential parts of patient protection. Patients should be able to ask questions without feeling pressured, understand the alternatives—including choosing not to have treatment—and know whom to contact if they have concerns afterwards.

We also welcome the Government’s continued commitment to a separate licensing scheme for lower-risk treatments, including botulinum toxin treatments and lip fillers. “Lower risk” does not mean risk-free, and consistent standards are important throughout the sector. [1]

Are these new rules already in force?

No. These changes are currently proposals subject to consultation, rather than new restrictions already in force. The consultation concerns England and is open until 13 January 2027. The Government says the parliamentary process is currently planned for spring 2027; that is not a confirmed date for the rules to come into force. [1] [2]

Our message to patients

Our message to anyone considering treatment is simple: take your time, ask questions and prioritise safety over pressure or price. Stronger regulation should help patients make informed choices and support practitioners who work responsibly.

Related reading

References

1. 1. Department of Health and Social Care — Cosmetic cowboys crackdown continues with new restrictions. Accessed 21 October 2026.
2. 2. Department of Health and Social Care — Restrictions on high-risk cosmetic and wellbeing procedures in England: consultation document. Accessed 21 October 2026.