Cross-party lawmakers are increasingly calling for tighter regulations surrounding the provision of non-surgical cosmetic procedures in Germany. Concerns center on the scope of practice permitted for practitioners outside traditional medical fields, specifically regarding procedures like hyaluronic acid injections and the use of Botox.
Simone Borchardt, health policy spokesperson for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, highlighted the inadequacy of current legislation, notably the “Heilpraktikergesetz” (alternative practitioners law), stating it fails to address the complexities and risks associated with contemporary aesthetic treatments. She specifically pointed to the practice of alternative practitioners administering hyaluronic acid injections, citing potentially significant risks, particularly when performed in facial areas. Borchardt argues this practice is no longer justifiable from a patient safety perspective.
She further emphasized the need for increased oversight of advertising for these procedures on social media platforms, advocating for the cessation of aggressive marketing campaigns originating from individuals lacking demonstrable qualifications. Borchardt stated that offering these treatments without appropriate training constitutes an illegal practice that endangers individuals and requires stricter enforcement of existing rules and more severe penalties for violations.
Janosch Dahmen, health spokesperson for the Green Party, echoed these concerns, calling for a fundamental reform of both patient rights legislation and the “Heilpraktikergesetz”. Dahmen expressed the importance of safeguarding legitimate medical practice from the influence of social media personalities, unsubstantiated claims and unscrupulous healing promises.
Julia-Christina Stange, health spokesperson for the Left Party, agreed, highlighting the inherent risks associated with any medical intervention. She asserted that stricter regulation of health-related content on social media is essential to combat misuse and the spread of misinformation.
