A LEGAL expert in Oxford has joined calls for better regulation of cosmetic surgery amid reports of a spike in procedures among young people.

A report issued yesterday by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics found more young people are turning to cosmetic procedures, such as botox, dermal fillers and plastic surgery, with girls as young as eight targeted by cosmetic surgery apps.

The study also called for a ban on non-medical invasive procedures for patients aged under 18, and for all cosmetic surgeons to be trained and certified.

Ruth Powell, a clinical negligence specialist at BL Claims Solicitors in West Way, said: “I welcome this report and hope it will highlight the very real need to protect people, and particularly children, from elements of the cosmetic surgery industry that are totally unregulated.

“Dermal fillers are only subject to the same level of regulation in the UK as ballpoint pens and toothbrushes.

“When it comes to filler procedures it’s rather like the Wild West out there; pretty much anybody can do it.”

She said ‘selfie culture’ and pressure could be fuelling the trend, adding: “It is perhaps not surprising that people are tempted by advertising for a quick fix to their wrinkles after seeing perfectly-posed pictures of smooth-skinned celebrities on Facebook, Snapchat or Instagram.”