A doctor has warned that unqualified practitioners are putting patients at risk.
Dr Paul Farrant, a consultant dermatologist based in Brighton, has urged caution as the UK government prepares to introduce a mandatory licensing scheme for non-surgical cosmetic procedures under the Health and Care Act 2022.
The scheme is expected to include injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers.
Dr Farrant said: “Anyone can currently call themselves a dermatologist, skin or hair specialist.
“The term isn’t legally protected, so patients need to be vigilant about who they’re seeing. Regulation is a step in the right direction – but people still need to understand the risks.”
He raised concerns about the growing number of high street clinics offering medical-grade procedures without adequate training.
Dr Farrant said: “Procedures involving blood, chemicals, or high-energy devices carry real risks.
“Done incorrectly, they can cause infection, allergic reactions, scarring and in some cases, serious complications like blindness from filler injected in the wrong place.”
He also warned about hair treatments performed by non-medical practitioners.
He said: “Even with the best intentions, if you’re not medically qualified, you can’t diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, or fully understand the risks of procedures like PRP.”
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The proposed licensing system will set new standards for training, hygiene and safety.
Higher-risk procedures could be limited to trained medical professionals.
Dr Farrant said: “For years, this has been an under-regulated space where patients are expected to navigate risk on their own. Licensing will help – but it won’t replace the need for proper medical expertise.”
He recommends looking for the “blue tick” accreditation from the British Association of Dermatologists.
Dr Farrant said: “The blue tick tells you the truth. This person has the training, the experience and is regulated to deliver care safely.”
He also cautioned against being swayed by social media content.
He said: “But just because it looks good on video doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective.”
Dr Farrant advised taking five minutes to check a practitioner’s medical credentials.
He said: “It’s five minutes of research that could save you from serious complications.