Cosmetic Procedures

The government has launched a campaign to make sure people know the risks of cosmetic procedures and where to find the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.

The campaign comes amid a rise in demand for procedures including Botox® and dermal fillers and growth in unregulated companies offering cheaper services.

A recent poll shows two thirds of women have had or are considering an aesthetic treatment.

Women are being urged to get "clued up" about the risks of cosmetic procedures as part of a new government campaign to help people make safer, more informed choices.

The Department of Health & Social Care have published the following top tips:

• Choose a reputable, safe and qualified practitioner who is trained in the procedure you are undertaking.

• Speak to a professional about the outcomes you can expect from a cosmetic procedure, signs of complications and procedure for aftercare before you commit and consent to proceed with the treatment.

• Make sure you have a pre-consultation with the same practitioner that will be performing the procedure and are given information to take away with you.

• Make sure that you know how to obtain after care advice and support if things go wrong.

• Check out the premises - are basic hygiene principles like hand washing and sterile equipment evident?

• Don’t pay for procedures until you have had a consultation to check it is suitable and will meet your expectations.

• Avoid participating in group treatments or events involving alcohol.

• Don’t be pressured into spontaneously agreeing to additional treatments you hadn’t considered before arriving at the clinic.

• Take time to consider your treatment options and do not make hasty decisions to start treatment until you are sure that it is right for you.

• Remember you can walk away if you’re not completely comfortable.