A new law came into force on Friday (October 1) that prevents anyone under 18 years of age in England from receiving botox or dermal lip fillers for cosmetic reasons.
The introduction of the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act means it is now illegal to administer the products to - or book an appointment for - those below 18, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.
The department said failure "could result in a criminal prosecution and an unlimited fine".
The law also applies to those visiting from outside the country, or who have the permission of someone aged over 18.
Treatments can, however, still be approved by a medical practitioner to be carried out by a doctor, nurse, dentist or pharmacist on those under 18 if there is a clinical need.
Fomer health minister Nadine Dorries announced the law last month following a significant spike in the number of young people attempting to achieve a so-called ‘Instagram face’.
“No child needs cosmetic procedures unless for medical reasons. Their physical and mental development is not complete," Ms Dorries told the Sun.
The change comes after MPs said a "complete absence" of regulation of beauty treatments is putting the public at risk – and "maintaining the status quo is not an option".
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