Ribble Valley MP Maya Ellis calls for tougher cosmetics regulation after parliamentary report

Ribble Valley MP Maya Ellis has called for tougher regulation of the cosmetics industry after a parliamentary report warned some beauty products face less scrutiny than ballpoint pens.

The report, by the Government’s Science and Technology Committee, describes existing industry guidelines as a “confusing mess” which have failed to keep pace with new treatments such as fillers and injectables.

The committee warns that despite the industry using complex chemicals and highly technical procedures, many products are still treated as ordinary consumer goods, leaving customers exposed to potential harm.

It comes after the Government announced new safeguards for high-risk treatments, including liquid Brazilian butt lifts and chemical peels, which must now be carried out by qualified, trained and regulated professionals.

But Ms Ellis and fellow MPs say it is unacceptable that it has taken 13 years to regulate high-risk, high-volume fillers, and want further action to improve safety across the industry.

The Ribble Valley MP has campaigned for tougher controls alongside constituent Dr Natalie Haworth, whose clinic, The Doctor & Company, regularly treats patients suffering complications after procedures carried out by poorly trained practitioners.

The committee is recommending a new product safety framework, alongside mandatory national training and qualifications for anyone administering Botox.

It also wants online marketplaces held accountable for products they sell, and a single point of contact for people to report cosmetic harm and seek support or compensation.

The report highlights a lack of research into chemical hair relaxers and other products mainly used by black women and girls, calling for further work to address gaps in knowledge and safety.

Ms Ellis said: “Anyone undergoing a cosmetic procedure should be able to trust the person they’re paying for the treatment, but that’s not always the case, which can have devastating results.

“Up to now, this traditionally women-led industry has not been prioritised by the government, leaving customers at potential risk of harm.

“The bottom line is that the cosmetics industry is a science industry, and should be treated with the same level of research and regulation so that we can protect anyone undergoing treatments and procedures.”

Dr Haworth said: “For too long, customers undergoing procedures have faced untold risks from under-qualified practitioners, so I’m pleased to see the government placing the cosmetics industry under scrutiny.”