Stockport Council’s Trading Standards team is warning beauty-sectors businesses not to fall foul of new legislation over cosmetic procedures for under-18s.
From 1st October 2021, it is now a criminal offence in England to administer Botox of filler injections to anyone under the age of 18 for cosmetic purposes, even if they have consent from a parent or guardian.
The new rules aim to safeguard children from the potential health risks of Botulinum toxin (Botox) and cosmetic fillers, defined as any substance inserted into the skin with a view to modify a person’s appearance and is not limited to conventional dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid.
It is also an offence to make arrangements or book an appointment to provide these treatments to anyone under 18. As a result, business owners are advised to make staff aware of the need to confirm patients ages when booking appointments, or they may find themselves in breach of the new rules, even if treatment does not go ahead.
Botox and some products used as cosmetic fillers can have other medical uses as well as cosmetic ones. In these instances, they can be administered to under-18s only under the direction of a doctor in line with GMC guidance and standards.
Under the new rules, both police and local authorities have powers to enforce the rules, investigate complaints and bring forward prosecutions.
Stockport Council will be updating its website with guidance for businesses in the coming days as well as delivering more targeted messaging directly to businesses that may be affected.
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