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AMM 146: Under-18 Botox Bust in West Yorkshire
July 22, 2024
This episode covers the latest investigation by West Yorkshire Trading Standards into local beauty businesses and their compliance with laws prohibiting botox and dermal fillers for minors. Listeners will gain insight into the methods used to check compliance, the overall results of the investigation, and potential consequences for businesses that failed to adhere to the regulations. The episode also touches on the role of Bradford Council’s Corporate Scrutiny Committee in promoting awareness of these laws in schools. Tune in to stay informed on this important public health issue.
Quick Takes
- West Yorkshire Trading Standards testing adherence to laws on botox and dermal fillers for minors
- UK laws make it illegal to provide these treatments to individuals under 18 without medical reasons
- Most businesses followed the law, but some failed age verification and could face legal action
Episode Transcript
Today is July 22, 2024. In recent news, West Yorkshire Trading Standards has been conducting tests to see if local beauty businesses are adhering to laws regarding botox and dermal fillers for minors. This is in response to concerns about under-18s accessing these cosmetic treatments.
Under current UK laws, it’s illegal to provide these treatments to individuals under 18, unless there are genuine medical reasons—all with or without parental consent. Trading Standards contacted businesses, pretending to arrange appointments for their “daughters” outside school hours to check compliance.
The good news? Most businesses followed the law. They inquired about the client’s age and declined to proceed when it was evident the client was under 18. However, several businesses failed to verify age and were willing to set up appointments.
This investigation was part of a broader initiative that saw 100s of businesses reviewed across the region. West Yorkshire Trading Standards found that while the majority were compliant, some did fail to make necessary age checks. Those businesses could now face legal action.
Bradford Council’s Corporate Scrutiny Committee has also been involved, with suggestions to educate schools about these laws. This would enable teachers to report any under-18s who might have undergone such treatments.
That’s a wrap for today’s update. Stay informed and stay safe.
