Non-surgical procedures and medical reviewer powers strengthened under new Scottish law

Scotland has introduced a wide‑reaching law that creates the country’s first statutory framework for non‑surgical cosmetic procedures while also updating the duties of medical reviewers in death certification.

The Non-surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Act 2026, which received Royal Assent on 12 May, brings in new criminal offences, enforcement powers and ministerial regulation‑making powers aimed at improving public protection.

The legislation defines non‑surgical procedures as treatments that pierce or penetrate the skin using needles, chemicals, heat, cold, light, lasers, sound or electricity. It is now an offence to provide these procedures to anyone under 18 or to carry them out outside permitted premises. Ministers will be able to introduce further restrictions and issue statutory guidance as the regime develops.

Authorised officers have been granted powers of entry, search and seizure, and obstructing an inspection is itself an offence. Organisations can be prosecuted for breaches, and senior figures may be held personally liable where offences occur with their consent, connivance or neglect.

The Act also modernises Scotland’s death certification system. It updates the application process for reviewing medical certificates of cause of death and introduces new rules for authorising cremations, including where a death has occurred outside the UK. These changes are intended to streamline oversight and ensure medical reviewers’ functions remain aligned with current practice.

Further regulations and guidance are expected as the new framework is phased in.