The non-surgical aesthetic sector is evolving rapidly, driven by innovation and growing consumer demand for minimally invasive, results-focused treatments. As these procedures become increasingly popular—ranging from injectables to advanced skin therapies—the need for robust regulation and professional standards has never been clearer. The Scottish Government’s recent publication of its response to the national consultation on non-surgical cosmetic regulation marks a pivotal moment in this journey.
Rooted in extensive public and professional engagement, the proposed framework sets out clear, evidence-based measures designed to protect patients and uphold practitioner accountability. From licensing requirements to risk-based procedure classifications, these reforms promise to raise the bar for safety and professionalism across Scotland’s aesthetics industry.
This article explores the key elements of the Scottish Government’s response, the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners’ (JCCP) endorsement of the proposals, and what these changes mean for practitioners, clinics, and patients alike. As the sector moves towards a safer, more regulated future, Scotland’s model offers important insights for the wider UK and beyond.
Read more on our partners, the JCCP's, website for more details.