Scotland to introduce changes to non-surgical medical procedure regulation
The Scottish Government has published its response to the consultation on regulating non‑surgical cosmetic procedures, introducing a more nuanced, three-tier framework and new licensing rules. Lower-risk treatments—such as microneedling, non‑ablative lasers, IPL/LED therapy, superficial chemical peels, cryolipolysis, and similar procedures—will fall under Group 1, where both premises and practitioners must be licensed by local authorities. Medium-risk interventions—like Botox and dermal fillers—will become Group 2, requiring delivery in Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS)‑regulated settings, with non‑medical practitioners operating under healthcare professional supervision. Higher-risk services—such as breast and buttock augmentation and advanced injectable or laser techniques—are designated Group 3, and must be performed solely by qualified healthcare professionals in HIS‑both premises-regulated facilities.
The reforms also include a minimum age of 18 for all procedures, dual licensing for both practitioners and premises, and enforcement shared between local authorities and HIS. A Non‑Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill will be introduced before May 2026 to implement these changes. The government noted widespread support during the consultation—drawn from more than 2,200 responses—with stakeholders and the public backing proportional regulation and safety oversight.