BCAM calls for crackdown on illegal treatments on under-18s

The British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has applauded the City of Wolverhampton Council for its approach to illegal aesthetic treatments and has urged other councils to follow suit.

The Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021 made it a criminal offence to arrange or book an appointment or administer botulinum toxin or fillers to anyone under 18. Following an undercover investigation of businesses illegally offering botulinum toxin and dermal filler procedures to those aged under 18, Wolverhampton’s trading standards department has issued written warnings with the threat of further enforcement action in future.

BCAM is now encouraging other councils and trading standards departments to learn from Wolverhampton’s approach and carry out their own investigations.

“We are delighted to learn that The City of Wolverhampton Council is taking these concerns seriously and taking action where necessary,” said BCAM president Dr Catherine Fairris. “While its investigation highlights the issue, it’s important to recognise that the problem isn’t isolated to one city – reports from our members tell us that illegal and unsafe use of aesthetic procedures is rife across the UK and needs to be addressed urgently to protect our most vulnerable.

BCAM has also urged local authorities to look at the resources available to them to help eradicate illegal activity across the country.

In the 2022-2023 financial year, the Government will pay grants totalling £1,456,699 to local authorities across England to support them with expenditures lawfully incurred because of the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021.

The Government has also issued guidance for local authorities and police to use to successfully implement the legislation. This includes scenario-based examples to help identify an offence and legitimate defences available.

“With a clearly identified problem and resources available, we at BCAM see no reason why investigations into the illegal administration of botulinum toxin and fillers to children are not being carried out across England,” added Dr Fairris. “Unethical businesses are exposing children to unnecessary risk of serious complications such as infection. They may also be perpetuating poor body image and placing undue pressure on those who do not need these treatments.”

BCAM advocates that aesthetic procedures carried out by experienced and qualified medical professionals using evidence-based products come with minimal risk. The college also believes that treatments should only be offered to consenting adults after a detailed assessment and consultation.