The rise of unregulated beauty products and devices presents serious safety risks for consumers seeking medical aesthetic treatments. Recently, authorities in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, uncovered an illegal drug trafficking operation focused on medical beauty products. In light of this, officials and healthcare experts are urging consumers to approach aesthetic treatments with caution, stressing the importance of choosing legitimate and licensed medical institutions to avoid falling into “beauty traps.”
In today’s beauty-driven society, many individuals pursue aesthetic enhancements through treatments like hyaluronic acid, skin boosters, placenta-derived products, and Botox injections. They often believe that a single injection can result in weight loss, fairer skin, and improved beauty. But how safe and effective are these treatments, and what hidden risks might they entail?
Recently, the Lanzhou Public Security Bureau launched an investigation into the illegal sale of medical aesthetic drugs, leading to the arrest of 50 suspects and the closure of six unlicensed home-based clinics. Authorities seized over 31,000 items, including various brands of injectable Botox and other Class III medical devices, with a total value exceeding 10 million Yuan.
Investigators revealed that the case began with a drug-related tip-off in May 2023, which led them to Zhao, a resident of Chengguan District. Zhao had been purchasing low-cost overseas Botox through WeChat. His prior experience at a medical aesthetic facility raised concerns among authorities since he was administering Botox without proper authorization, resulting in charges for violating drug management laws.
“Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is a highly regulated substance,” notes Wang Hongbin, Deputy Head of the Food and Drug Investigation Division of the Lanzhou Public Security Bureau. “The problems arose when Zhao acquired products without proper labeling and authorization, posing serious public health risks.”
The investigation team expanded their efforts, identifying and arresting Zhao’s suppliers and associates, such as Yang and others involved in the operation, while also shutting down two illegal clinics. Wang explained that Yang and his brother had established a network that capitalized on inexpensive international Botox, distributing it across various regions.
Illegal operators often utilized overseas communication tools to operate undetected, disguising medical practices as nail salons or spas, and misleading consumers through social media marketing.
Through their investigations, authorities discovered that these operators engaged in deceptive advertising, claiming their products were “imported” and popular overseas while failing to disclose that they lacked legal approval for sale in China.
Wang emphasized that out of 30 beauty professionals who sourced Botox from the operation led by Gong and Liu, many were found in violation of drug management regulations.
Medical experts stress the importance of recognizing that “medical aesthetics” should be viewed as healthcare rather than just cosmetic enhancement. Bai Haiya, Chief Physician at the Gansu Women’s and Children’s Health Hospital, highlights that many issues arise from unregulated institutions, inexperienced practitioners, and unclear product origins, which can have severe implications for consumer health.
“Young individuals seeking cosmetic improvements often make impulsive decisions without fully understanding the associated risks,” Bai warns, noting a significant trend of youth gravitating toward medical aesthetics. This demographic, often inexperienced and financially dependent, may prioritize affordability over safety, making them easy targets for unscrupulous providers.
In response to these increasing concerns, Bai urges consumers to distinguish between medical and aesthetic procedures, recognize the inherent risks involved, and ensure they only seek treatments from licensed professionals.
To help consumers navigate this complex landscape, Wang advises adhering to the “Three Watches and Three Preserves” principle:
1. **Watch Credentials:** Legitimate medical aesthetic facilities should visibly display their business licenses.
2. **Watch the Environment:** Licensed clinics must meet specific spatial requirements and include designated treatment areas.
3. **Watch Providers’ Credentials:** Verify that medical aesthetic services are offered by certified professionals with valid licenses.
Wang also stresses the importance of maintaining thorough records of consultations and transactions to safeguard consumer rights and interests.
