Update July 2025: In June and July 2025, the UK Health Security Agency issued a public health alert following cases of botulism linked to unlicensed injectable products administered in non-clinical settings. This stark warning highlights just how crucial it is to choose a healthcare professionals who use licensed Botox products in regulated clinical environments.
Your safety is our priority - we only use licensed products and all our procedures are carried out in a safe, clinical environment by qualified healthcare professionals.
When it comes to Botox, choosing a trained healthcare professional isn’t just a good idea - it’s essential. Botox may seem straightforward, but it’s a prescription medication that requires expert knowledge to use safely and effectively. Here’s why:
1. Understanding Facial Anatomy
A skilled clinician has an in-depth understanding of facial anatomy. They know exactly which muscles to target to achieve natural-looking results and avoid complications. Administering Botox isn’t just about injecting - it’s about precision and expertise.
2. Customised Treatments
Every face is different, and a trained healthcare professional can tailor the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring the results are balanced and natural. The goal is to refresh your look, not leave you with a frozen or overdone appearance.
3. Managing Risks
Like any medical treatment, Botox carries some risks, such as bruising, swelling, or, in rare cases, more serious side effects like drooping eyelids. A qualified practitioner knows how to minimise these risks and manage any issues that may arise.
4. Access to Genuine Products
Healthcare professionals source their products directly from licensed suppliers, ensuring the product used is genuine, safe, and appropriate for your treatment. Back street providers often use unlicensed or counterfeit products which can be unsafe.
5. Legal and Ethical Standards
Only qualified healthcare practitioners can legally prescribe and administer Botox in the UK. By going to a professional, you’re ensuring your treatment is compliant with strict healthcare regulations and covered by insurance.
How to do your Research and Stay Safe
Botox may be non-surgical, but it’s still a medical procedure. When performed by a trained expert, it’s a safe and highly effective way to achieve your goals. Cutting corners simply isn’t worth the risk.
Always choose a reputable clinic with experienced practitioners you can trust. Good websites to check practitioner credentials include:
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Scotland:
- Healthcare Improvement Scotland (Regulatory requirement)
- Save Face (Optional)
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England:
- Care Quality Commission (Regulatory requirement)
- Joint Council of Aesthetic Practitioners (Optional)
The DRVICTORIA Clinic is registered with both Health Improvement Scotland and Save Face.
Author's experience
Dr Victoria Dobbie BDS has over 20 years experience in delivering Botox treatments and is currently a Key Opinion Leader and trainer for Evolus the manufacturer of Botulinum Toxin Type A brand Nuceiva.