Last year, the Chinese police discovered that a counterfeit beauty company had sold nearly $4.3 million worth of fake Botox, to almost 1000 patients in Eastern China, in just a six-month period.
And that’s not all. According to the China Association of Plastics and Aesthetics, up to 70 percent of Botox and hyaluronic acid products in China are reportedly counterfeit or obtained illegally.
In light of these findings, it is more important than ever for American patients to be aware of fake Botox.
Continue reading to learn the warning signs and how to avoid counterfeit products and unscrupulous injectors.
4 Ways to Be Aware of Fake Botox
1. Ensure That You Are Being Treated by a Qualified and Licensed Injector
First and foremost, patients should always seek Botox injections from a reputable provider, such as a medical professional with experience like those found at Prolase Medispa.
These practitioners have advanced training and in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy to provide safe and effective Botox treatments.
2. Check Allergan’s List of Certified Providers
Allergan is the aesthetic company that manufactures and sells Botox.
On their website, patients can find a list of local providers who are certified by the company to perform Botox injections.
3. Ask Where the Provider Purchases Botox
In order to be aware of fake Botox, patients need to be willing to ask tough questions, including how the injector sources his Botox.
Botox should be purchased within the U.S. and directly from Allergan. Any other method of procurement is a red flag that the neurotoxin in counterfeit or bought illegally.
4. Avoid Online Deals and Non-Medical Settings
When patients bargain-hunt and go for online Botox deals, they are putting themselves at an increased risk for complications.
It is very likely that extremely low prices are achieved by using a counterfeit product or over-dilution.
At the same time, be aware of fake Botox that may be offered in a non-medical setting, such as a nail salons, spa, or Botox party in someone’s home.
Learn More About Botox
If you are considering Botox, please call our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled, certified, and experienced injectors.