In the rapidly evolving world of social media, a new alarming trend has captured the attention of The Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP). Illegal lotteries that offer cosmetic procedures as prizes are on the rise, exploiting the allure of beauty enhancements to attract individuals. This article delves into the serious implications of these practices, the potential violation of UK gaming and advertising regulations, and the measures being taken to address this issue.

‍

The Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) has recently noticed a troubling rise in illegal lotteries on various social media platforms. These lotteries often offer cosmetic procedures as prizes, luring individuals with the promise of beauty enhancements.

It is concerning that presenting cosmetic procedures as mere prizes could diminish the gravity of these procedures and their potential consequences.

Such practices might lead people to underestimate the inherent risks and complications. Therefore, we strongly urge the public to be cautious of such activities circulating on social media platforms.

There is a high likelihood that these lottery games could breach the gaming regulations in place in the United Kingdom. These regulations are rigorously monitored by the Gambling Commission, an authority ensuring fair and transparent gambling practices.

Furthermore, these lotteries may also violate advertising regulations by promoting prescription-only medicines (POMs)to the general public. Such rules safeguard the public from potential misuse of powerful medicinal substances.

Last week, a notable complaint came to our attention. It was concerning a practitioner based in North Yorkshire who had put up an unconventional offer. The offer was in the form of a raffle, where the entrants have the option to purchase a raffle number for a fee of £4. The prize for the chosen number was an aesthetic procedure.

It is interesting to note that the raffle seemed to have gained quite a bit of traction, with as many as 30 people having already entered.

However, what also raised concerns was that the full names of the people who had entered the raffle were being openly displayed in these promotional posts.

The JCCP reported the practitioner to the Gambling Commission and Advertising Standards Authority, providing evidence of posts for their review and necessary actions.