Everything You Need to Know About Scotland’s Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill
The aesthetics sector in Scotland is poised for transformative change with the introduction of the Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures (NSCP) Bill, a cornerstone of the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government 2025-26.
This legislation, set to be introduced to Parliament by 2026, aims to standardise practices, enhance safety, and instil greater professionalism across the growing field of non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
This bold step not only elevates Scotland to a leadership position in regulating the aesthetics industry but also sets a precedent for similar efforts across the UK. If you are an aesthetic practitioner or beauty professional, understanding how this legislation may impact your work is key to thriving in this evolving landscape.
Why the NSCP Bill is Necessary
The popularity of non-surgical cosmetic treatments has skyrocketed in recent years, with advancements in technology making treatments like microneedling, dermal fillers, and laser therapies more accessible than ever. However, this rise has been accompanied by significant challenges:
Lack of Regulation: Scotland, much like the rest of the UK, has operated with minimal oversight, leaving clients vulnerable to poorly trained practitioners and unsafe practices.
Risks to Public Safety: Without clear guidelines, clients seeking common treatments risk complications ranging from minor adverse reactions to severe medical issues.
Inconsistent Standards: A lack of uniform qualifications and premises regulations has led to significant variability in service quality.
The NSCP Bill addresses these concerns by proposing a comprehensive framework for regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures, designed to safeguard public confidence while supporting professional growth within the industry.
What the NSCP Bill Covers
At its core, the legislation seeks to regulate the delivery of non-surgical cosmetic procedures through clear, enforceable measures. The Bill will:
Regulate Specific Procedures: Treatments offered for cosmetic or lifestyle purposes will be categorised based on their risk level and invasiveness.
Mandate Licensing: All practitioners and premises offering procedures must be appropriately licensed or regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) or local authorities.
Enhance Safety Standards: Practitioners must meet specific qualification criteria, particularly for higher-risk treatments, to minimise complications and ensure public safety.
Enforce Accountability: Service providers will be held to consistent standards through routine inspections and compliance checks.
Grouping Procedures by Risk
The Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill introduces a three-tier classification system for non-surgical cosmetic procedures. This structure categorises treatments based on their level of risk, invasiveness, and the qualifications required to perform them safely.
Group 1: Low-Risk Procedures
Low-risk treatments are minimally invasive and carry a low likelihood of complications. These can be performed by trained, licensed non-medical practitioners in licensed premises. This group includes:
- Microneedling
- Superficial chemical peels (affecting only the outermost layer of skin)
- IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy
- LED therapy
- Laser treatments for tattoo removal
- Laser hair removal
Group 2: Medium-Risk Procedures
Medium-risk treatments are more invasive than Group 1 and therefore require additional oversight. These must be carried out in Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS)-regulated premises under the supervision of an appropriately trained healthcare professional. Treatments in this group include:
- Mesotherapy
- Botulinum toxin injections (e.g., Botox)
- Dermal fillers
- Medium-depth peels
- Photo rejuvenation
- Radiofrequency treatments
- High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
- Cryolipolysis (fat freezing)
Group 3: High-Risk Procedures
High-risk procedures involve significant invasiveness or complexity and must be performed exclusively by qualified healthcare professionals in HIS-regulated premises. These procedures include:
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and other blood-derived injections
- Injection lipolysis
- Microsclerotherapy injections
- Dermal microcoring
- Deeper chemical peels (e.g., phenol peels)
- Laser treatments targeting the deeper dermis
- Advanced electrolysis (electrocautery)
- Cryotherapy and cryocautery
- Thread lifts
- Carboxytherapy
- Cellulite subcision
- Augmentative dermal fillers (e.g., “liquid BBL”)
- IV procedures (excluding hydration therapy)
- Hay fever injections
Additionally, any Group 1 or Group 2 procedure conducted in intimate areas (excluding hair removal and certain procedures like tattooing or skin piercing, which are already licensed) is automatically classified as Group 3. This detailed breakdown ensures that the regulations remain proportionate to the risks posed by each procedure, striking a careful balance between safety and accessibility while protecting public health.
What This Means for Practitioners
For beauty professionals and aesthetic practitioners in Scotland, the NSCP Bill represents both a challenge and an opportunity.
The Challenges:
Practitioners will need to ensure they have the necessary qualifications to continue offering treatments, particularly those in Groups 2 and 3. Compliance with the new licensing requirements may involve additional costs and administrative work.
The Opportunities:
- Credibility Boost: Being part of a regulated industry will enhance client trust and elevate the profession’s reputation.
- Training Pathways: Accredited courses, like those offered by London School Of Beauty, are designed to equip practitioners with qualifications that meet regulatory standards.
- Professional Growth: Early adopters of new training and licensing requirements will gain a competitive edge in the market.
It’s worth noting that the implementation of the Bill is expected to be phased, giving practitioners time to prepare and adapt.
Broader Implications for the UK
Scotland’s move to regulate the aesthetics industry could act as a catalyst for reform across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While consultations have been held in England, no concrete steps have been taken to introduce similar legislation.
The NSCP Bill highlights the urgent need for a cohesive UK-wide framework that:
- Enhances safety and professionalism in the aesthetics sector.
- Ensures consistent qualifications and standards across all nations.
- Builds public trust in the industry.
How Practitioners Can Prepare
To navigate these changes successfully, practitioners must act now. Here are 8 practical steps:
- Invest in Accredited Training
- Upgrade your qualifications with regulated courses that align with the new standards.
- Stay Informed
- Keep up-to-date with developments as the Bill progresses through Parliament.
- Follow updates from reputable organisations like NHBF, BABTAC, and the British Beauty Council.
- Engage with Industry Bodies
- Participate in consultations and discussions to have your voice heard and ensure the final legislation reflects the realities of your profession.
- Review your current services and premises to ensure compliance with anticipated licensing and safety requirements.
Getting Ready for a Regulated Future
The Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill is a defining moment for Scotland’s aesthetics sector, with its focus on safety, professionalism, and industry-wide accountability. While our academy is based in London and primarily supports practitioners across England and nearby regions, we remain closely attuned to these developments.
At London School Of Beauty, we take pride in providing Ofqual-regulated courses designed to prepare practitioners for any changes in aesthetic standards and regulations. Our training equips beauty professionals with the skills and qualifications to excel in this evolving industry.
For practitioners in England and beyond, Scotland’s proactive measures serve as an indicator of what may follow. Preparing for similar regulatory shifts is not just a necessity—it’s an opportunity to elevate your practice and solidify your standing in this competitive field.
Should similar legislation come to England, we’re ready to support aesthetic professionals in navigating these changes with confidence and expertise.
To find out how we can help, get in touch with our friendly team today: call 0203 966 8690 or email admission@beauty-school.co.uk