AMM 89: Avoid Counterfeit Botox with Expert Tips from Moksha Aesthetics
Today’s episode covers crucial safety tips for aesthetic procedures, focusing on the dangers of counterfeit Botox injections. With recent reports of serious health issues resulting from fake Botox, it’s more important than ever to verify your provider’s qualifications and the legitimacy of the products being used. The podcast highlights examples of the risks involved, such as cases of HIV transmission due to unlicensed practices. With millions of minimally invasive procedures performed each year, it’s essential to be cautious and thorough in researching your provider. Expert advice stresses the need to check for licensing, FDA approval of products, and to not solely rely on social media reviews or before-and-after photos. Your safety should always come first, so be sure to prioritize it over convenience or cost. Stay informed and stay safe out there!
Quick Takes
- The CDC reported 15 cases of serious health issues from counterfeit Botox injections in the U.S., highlighting the need to verify the qualifications of aesthetic procedure providers.
- An incident in a New Mexico spa in 2018 resulted in three people contracting HIV due to unlicensed practices during vampire facials, showcasing the risks of non-standard procedures.
- Over 23 million minimally invasive procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2022, emphasizing the importance of caution and due diligence when considering treatments like Botox, fillers, and skin resurfacing.
Episode Transcript
It’s May 26, 2024, and today I’m diving into some crucial safety tips regarding aesthetic procedures. Let’s talk about the recent increase in counterfeit Botox in the United States and the associated risks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that, as of May, fifteen individuals across nine states received counterfeit Botox injections, leading to serious health issues like slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and double vision. This underscores the importance of verifying the qualifications of your provider.
Consider the unfortunate case of a New Mexico spa, where unlicensed practices led to three people contracting HIV back in 2018. They were victims of reused needles during vampire facials, a reminder of the dangers when procedures aren’t performed to standard.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports over 23 million minimally invasive procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2022. These include popular treatments like Botox, fillers, and skin resurfacing. While generally safe when performed correctly, these numbers highlight the need for caution.
Erika Barry, a nurse practitioner at Moksha Aesthetics in Potomac, Maryland, emphasizes the importance of doing your homework. Check if your provider is licensed and always verify the legitimacy of products being used.
The CDC’s Dr. Jennifer Cope suggests asking whether the product is FDA-approved and obtained from a reliable source. If there’s any doubt, it’s safer to avoid the injection.
And with social media buzzing with before-and-after photos, Barry advises skepticism. Photos can be fabricated, and reviews can be faked. Be diligent, ask detailed questions about your provider’s training and background, and scrutinize the product’s labeling and pricing.
Remember, your safety is paramount. Don’t compromise it for convenience or cost.
Have a great day and stay safe!