Habia enters debate on cosmetic review

Ahead of next month's Government cosmetic review announcement, Habia is inviting feedback from salons and therapists on its proposals for an injectables qualification.

The Government review is currently investigating the quality and safety of both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments including injectables such as botox and dermal fillers, lasers and skin peels. The outcome, due to be announced in March, could change current law on who can carry out such procedures.

Industry standard-setting body Habia presented to the review committee in January and proposed a "training and recognition" model, which would allow beauty therapists to continue delivering some of these treatments. The proposed model includes:
 
•                  A minimum qualification that is recognised by government for all those offering injectable treatments, regardless of whether they are from the medical or beauty sector
•                  National Occupational Standards (NOS) for injectable treatments to be developed
•                  A not-for-profit Professional Register to be established and maintained, with the backing of the Keogh Review committee, sitting within a regulatory framework (ie, not voluntary) and with Industry Authority oversight
·                A compulsory commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for those on the Professional Register.
 
Habia managing director Rob Young said: “We see no reason why adequately trained and responsible sector professionals cannot deliver treatments they have been delivering safely for years. As an Industry Authority, we fully understand the concerns of the public and the medical profession. However, it is not in the interests of our sector to scare away its own clients with shoddy practice. Professionals want professional training and professional recognition; I have every faith they will actively seek it out by supporting a recognised qualification and embracing a Professional Register.”
 
He added: "We ask all those who feel strongly on this issue to engage with Habia so that the entire sector can present a united front to the Keogh Review and the government.”