The New York state Department of State is warning consumers about unlicensed medical spas after a statewide investigation led to 223 being inspected and 87 cited.
“We saw and observed anything from expired licenses to suspected counterfeit products to controlled substances,” said Secretary Walter Mosley of the state Department of State.
Depending on the citation, the penalty ranges from paying fines to a business having its license suspended or revoked.
Officials say some consumers reported experiencing poisoning, allergic reactions, burns and double vision.
“What we are seeing is unfortunately a terrible trend of consumers being exposed to individuals who might be under licensed or not licensed at all in terms of their medical background to conduct these medical procedures,” said Mosley.
The procedures include everything from Botox injections to cool sculpting and peels.
Spectrum News 1 looked at the Capital Region where 23 med spas were inspected and 18 were cited. The owners we contacted refused interviews.
The state Department of State has a website offering resources where consumers can look up services or file a complaint.