Retouched photos ban

Photographic images of models whose appearance has been modified for commercial use must be marked “retouched photograph”, or the advertiser will face a fine, from October 1.

The measure, aimed at combatting eating disorders and body image issues among young women, concerns photos used in advertisements appearing in the press, catalogues, flyers, websites and posters and it is up to the advertiser to inform the publisher whether the photograph is original or retouched.

This notification must be legible and clearly separate from the commercial message. Offenders will face a maximum fine of €37,500, or up to 30% of the cost of the advert.
Since this May, models are required to have a health certificate, valid for two years, declaring that they are fit to do their job and not excessively underweight.

Those employing a model without a certificate face a €75,000 fine and six-month jail term.