How to Tell If a Skincare Brand Isn’t Properly Regulated

The skincare market has exploded with new brands promising fast results, “medical-grade” formulas, and eye-catching packaging. Many are heavily marketed on social media, often backed by influencers, and can look convincing at first glance. But beneath the surface, some of these brands might not actually be regulated - which means their products could be ineffective, unsafe, or even harmful.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to spot the signs of an unregulated skincare brand, explain why proper regulation matters for your safety, and highlight how choosing clinically guided prescription skincare can protect your skin and deliver real results.

Why Does Regulation Matter in Skincare?  

Regulation protects consumers by making sure skincare products are tested, safe, and supported by scientific evidence. In the UK, prescription treatments and medical devices must follow strict standards, such as UKCA registration, MHRA oversight, and pharmacy checks.

Without regulation, brands can make big claims without proof. This can put consumers at risk of irritation, allergic reactions, or worse, exposure to unsafe active ingredients.

What are the Signs a Skincare Brand Isn’t Properly Regulated?  

Vague or exaggerated claims:

If a product advertises itself as “medical-grade” or “dermatologist approved” without listing who the experts are, it’s a red flag.  

No mention of regulatory approval:

In the UK, legitimate brands highlight MHRA oversight, GPhC oversight, or UKCA registration. If you don’t see it, be cautious.  

No qualified experts involved:

True personalisation requires prescribers, pharmacists, and formulation scientists. If a brand never mentions its expert team, it may not have one.

Prescription-only ingredients sold freely:

If tretinoin, hydroquinone, or similar are available without a consultation, the brand isn’t operating within UK regulations.

No transparency on side effects:

All powerful actives come with risks. Brands that promise “no side effects ever” are oversimplifying and possibly misleading you.  

How is MiQuest Different?

Qualified experts at the centre of your care:

Every formula starts with dermatology prescribers, pharmacists, and formulation scientists who clinically assess your needs and design a treatment that’s proven to be safe and effective.

Advanced AI technology:

Our technology is registered as a UKCA medical device, meaning it meets strict UK standards and works alongside our experts to refine your formula with precision.  

Prescription-only treatments you can trust:  

MiQuest provides access to powerful, prescription-strength actives that you can’t get safely over the counter. Whether you need a prescription cream for rosacea, dull skin treatment, or anything in-between, your ingredients are chosen for your exact biology.

Ongoing care that adapts with you:

At MiQuest, your treatment evolves as your skin evolves. With regular updates and photo submissions, our experts and AI refine your prescription so it continues to work for you, long after your first consultation.

Choose Safe, Regulated Skincare You Can Trust

Unregulated skincare may look appealing on the surface, but without proper oversight, it risks doing more harm than good. If your brand can’t prove it’s regulated, you can’t be sure it’s safe.  

With MiQuest, you don’t have to take that gamble. Our regulated, medically guided approach combines clinical knowledge with highly advanced AI, to give you prescription skincare that’s powerful, personal, and trustworthy.

Why not start your skin journey with us today?