Dr. Rebecca Baxt, Board Certified Dermatologist
Protect Yourself: Avoid Counterfeit Products & Fraudulent Operator Scams
I have previously warned consumers about the potential dangers of receiving cosmetic injections from unqualified medical specialists and the use of counterfeit medications, including Botox and fillers.
This is an escalating issue for consumers, especially during the holiday when so many injectable “deals” and “specials” are being offered. Unfortunately, many unaware consumers can, and have, developed serious medical problems due to counterfeit medication. (See my April 2024 blog post, BEWARE! Fake Botox Injections Causing Hospitalizations).
Additionally, the potential danger to people only increases when the spa operators or injectors are unlicensed and unqualified medical specialists.
A recent arrest of a Massachusetts spa operation underscores this warning as she was not only bringing unapproved, counterfeit drugs and devices into the country, but she posed as a nurse!
“For years, Ms. Fadanelli allegedly put unsuspecting patients at risk by representing herself to be a nurse and then administering thousands of illegal, counterfeit injections,” acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy said in a statement, saying she “ignored safety regulations against bringing unapproved, counterfeit drugs and devices into our country and endangered the health of hundreds of her clients.”1
There alarming rise in the distribution of fake cosmetic products poses significant risks. Without guarantees of purity, efficacy, or safety, individuals receiving these counterfeit injections are not only seeing poor results but also facing severe medical complications such as paralysis and facial disfigurement. The dangers are real and should not be underestimated!
Warnings And Tips
1. Identify a Qualified Provider and Verify!
To avoid counterfeit Botox or dermal fillers, choose a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Verify that your physician has the appropriate medical credentials and experience in administering injections.
2. Ask to See Your Medication and Check Expiration Date
There is no such thing as a ‘generic’ form of BOTOX® Cosmetic. You have a right to inspect medications being used for your injections. Always ask to see the vial. Is it BOTOX® Cosmetic brand name? Ensure you are receiving authentic BOTOX® Cosmetic. AbbVie and Allergan Aesthetics are the only authorized suppliers of BOTOX® and BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Manufacturer’s Note: “Providers and consumers can identify authentic BOTOX® and BOTOX® Cosmetic product via a tamper-evident seal on each product box carton, the established name ‘onabotulinumtoxinA’ listed under the brand name BOTOX® or BOTOX® Cosmetic, and the hologram of the word ‘Allergan’ on the vial label.”2
3. Beware of Deep Discounts and Suspiciously Low Prices
As the saying goes, “if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Fake injectables are typically sold at a fraction of the cost of the genuine products administered by qualified medical providers.
Be cautious of discount cosmetic filler products or ‘cheap’ BOTOX® Cosmetic. Medical formulations, potency, and approved doses vary among products, so no single product can replace another. It is not worth risking your health or life to save a few dollars on a cheap toxin. Be careful!
At BAXT CosMedical®, we purchase our BOTOX® Cosmetic directly from Allergan Aesthetics and store it properly in a monitored refrigerator. All bottles are prepared/diluted by me, Dr. Rebecca Baxt, board-certified Dermatologist, and I am the only one who draws up the BOTOX® and administers the injections. I have 25 years of experience injecting BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Explore the Wide Range of Neuromodulators and Dermal Fillers at BAXT CosMedical®
Discover the extensive selection of neuromodulators and dermal fillers available at BAXT CosMedical®. Enhance your beauty with our specialized treatments, tailored to meet your unique aesthetic goals.
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Trust your BOTOX® Cosmetic injections only with a Board-Certified Dermatologist! Visit us for the BEST BOTOX® Cosmetic in Paramus, NJ!
Schedule Your Complimentary BOTOX® Cosmetic Consultation with Dr. Rebecca Baxt! Baxt in her premier cosmetic and medical dermatology office located in Paramus, NJ.
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More Expert Advice From Dr. Rebecca Baxt
- Who Can Legally Inject BOTOX?
- BEWARE! Fake Botox Injections Causing Hospitalizations
- What is Barbie Botox?
- Botox in a Bottle…Does it Work?
- Is BOTOX® Cosmetic Safe?
1Woman gave fake Botox injections at her Mass. beauty spas for years, feds say, NBC News Boston
2Response to Suspected Counterfeit Botox Reports, Allergan Aesthetics
