By Dr. TRACY MOUNTFORD, MBBS MBCAM
The Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021 came into effect on October 1st, 2021.
There has been a sharp rise in teenagers wanting Botox or Filler. A contributing factor is their exposure to Instagram and reality stars encouraging their latest tweak. The purpose of this Act is to reduce the number of underage children getting these treatments and protect them. It makes a positive difference by acting as a barrier to digital pressures to look a certain way.
What does this mean?
- Anyone underage cannot get injectable treatments for cosmetic reasons.
- Its purpose is to protect children from any potential health risks of cosmetic Fillers and Botox.
- It protects underage children from unqualified, untrained practitioners who are trying to target or exploit them
- If required for medical reasons, under 18s can get the treatment if approved by a doctor.
Can you get Botox under 18? Why 18?
No, you cannot get Botox for cosmetic purposes if you are under 18 years of age. Many note there is an expected maturity from the age of 18 upwards. Many are hopeful that people will be able to fully understand the real implications, risks and purpose and realistic outcome of these cosmetic treatments, and therefore they can make an informed decision.
Any qualified practitioner will make sure you can make an informed decision about any possible treatment.
Botox under 18 – Did you know…?
According to the Department of Health, their analysis shows the possibility of “41,000 botulinum toxin procedures may have been carried out on under-18s in 2020”[1]. Also, that over the past four years “29,300 dermal filler procedures have been performed on under-18s.”[1]
Carolyn Harris (Labour MP and inquiry co-chairwoman) states there are “practitioners who are destroying the industry’s reputation by practicing completely unqualified and we have victims who are scarred for life.”
At our clinics, all our practitioners are qualified and expertly trained. We have years of experience, helping patients achieve their ideal outcome in the safest way possible.
How does The Cosmetic Skin Clinic feel about this?
From the beginning, we made the ethical decision to not offer Botox or Filler to any under 18s. At The Cosmetic Skin Clinic, we’ve been strong advocates for strict guidelines about who can have Botox and or Fillers.
Practitioners and clinics must maintain a high standard to create a safe experience. This Botox Banning Act is a step in the right direction to safeguard everyone from having a traumatic and harmful experience. We are 100% behind creating a safer future and environment for all patients.
If you would like to learn more or you have any further questions, please contact our clinics in London and Buckinghamshire.
