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A new law banning under-18s from having cosmetic Botox or fillers will today receive royal assent.
The 'Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act' tabled by the MP for Sevenoaks Laura Trott aims to protect children from unregulated surgeries.
It was first introduced in January 2020 after the MP was drawn in the Private Member's Bill ballot.
Now, having gained cross-party backing in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the Bill will today be approved by Her Majesty The Queen.
Reacting to the news, Ms Trott said: “No child needs cosmetic Botox or fillers. I'm delighted that today my Bill has passed, banning the dangerous and unnecessary procedures which can ruin children's lives.
"This is a big step forward in protecting young people, particularly women, from unscrupulous providers.
"I'm grateful for the cross-party support for these measures, and to the Department of Health – particularly Minister Nadine Dorries – for their support of the Bill."
"It truly is a monumental step forward which will help safeguard the people most at risk..."
If there is a medical need for those under 18 to have the treatment, the new legislation means a doctor, registered medical practitioner, or a health professional will have to administer it, a requirement which is currently not in place.
Botulinum toxin (botox), dermal fillers and laser hair removal account for nine out of 10 non-surgical treatments performed in the UK.
The latest analysis by the Department for Health estimated that around 41,000 Botox procedures may have been carried out on under-18s in 2020 and that more than 29,300 dermal filler procedures may have been undertaken on under-18s since 2017.
Ashton Collins, director at Save Face, a national register of accredited practitioners, said: “We are beyond delighted that this law has been passed.
"We have been campaigning for greater protection for young people who are being targeted, exploited, and harmed by unscrupulous practitioners since 2014.
"We are extremely grateful to Laura Trott MP for taking action on this extremely important issue and it has been a privilege to have been able to offer our support and contribute to her Bill.
"It truly is a monumental step forward which will help safeguard the people most at risk to falling into unsafe hands.”
While the bill is enshrined in law today, it is not expected to come into force until Autumn 2021 so businesses have time to familiarise themselves with it, train staff, and make the necessary adaptations.
