IGJ warns of rise in unsafe botox and filler treatments

The Dutch Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ) has issued a warning regarding the rise of poorly performed botox and filler treatments. In 2025, the IGJ received 175 reports of substandard procedures, a fivefold increase from the previous year.

Many of these incidents involved practitioners operating without proper medical qualifications or diplomas. Reported complications include inflammation, swelling, and drooping eyes. The IGJ noted that some clinics attract clients by offering significantly lower prices than medical professionals, sometimes using illegal products.

To address these risks, the IGJ is launching a pop-up ‘filler clinic’ in Nijmegen, Amsterdam, Zwolle, and Breda during student introduction weeks. They are also promoting the ‘Fillercheck’, an online tool designed to help individuals recognize red flags, assess clinic reliability, and determine if a treatment is truly necessary.