The Ugly Truth about Fake Injectables
Injectables like Botox, Dysport, Restylane and Juvederm have become extremely popular amongst all age groups for preventative and corrective aging. High demand for Neurotoxins and Fillers are understandable as they significantly improve lines, wrinkles, and volume loss without the downtime of plastic surgery. The higher demand unfortunately does also mean there are people out there looking to get in on this lucrative black market for counterfeit Botox and fillers.
Like any other medical procedure, clients considering injectable treatments should still be doing their research on both the product or procedure itself and the provider or office doing the treatment. In this blog we will break down the dangers of fake injectables and simple ways to make sure you are getting the real thing.
Dangers of Counterfeit Injectables
Fake Toxins and Fillers can be harmful for a few reasons. First of all, these counterfeit products can take a toll on your wallet since they end up providing little to no results. It is also possible that correcting the work that was done by counterfeit product may take more money to fix than it would have been when done correctly in the first place.
Second, and most importantly, issues with fake Botox and pseudo-fillers can result in serious, even life threatening, health issues. Since counterfeit products are unregulated, they can be made up of many unknown ingredients. This may cause allergic reactions, infections, scarring and even adverse reactions with necrotizing (death) of the tissue surrounding the area. Our HA fillers can be dissolved if placed incorrectly but counterfeit fillers may not be able to be dissolved which can be very scary in the event that you have an adverse reaction.
How to spot the fakes
There are some simple things patients can do to make sure they receive real Toxins and fillers from a qualified injector.
- Manufacturer Directory – Companies that make these injectables like Allergan or Galderma have a list on their websites of authorized providers in your area. Oftentimes these providers listed have received additional trainings directly from this manufacturer.
- Certified and Licensed Injectors – Medical and Nursing board information is public knowledge. You can look up providers licenses on their state boards to see if they are current and properly licensed to perform these treatments. It will also tell you if they have had any suspensions or issues with their licenses.
- In-office Treatments – Avoiding things like “Botox parties” or other in-home services as those are common places for fake product. Having your treatment done in office assures that you are getting the proper before and after care, as well as knowing you are in good hands in the event of an adverse reaction.
- Check the Packaging – If a provider is acting suspicious about the bottle or box that the product is coming from or won’t show you the packaging, that may be a clear sign. US manufactured products have the lot number with an expiration date and a US license number. Make sure the expiration is still valid and that it is indeed a US product. Botox has a holographic on its label that says “Allergan” on it that can prove its authentic. You can also call Allergan or Galderma directly and verify the authenticity of the lot number.
BOGO and Other Too Good To Be True Deals
Lastly, if the Botox or Filler deal is too good to be true, chances are it is too good to be true. If you can get a full syringe for $100 you should be questioning why. Don’t get us wrong, there are specials that can be run from time to time through the manufacturing company themselves as well as in-office specials but use your better judgement on those. Cheaper does not always mean better!
To book a consultation or treatment with one of our licensed expert injectors click here, we would love to guide you on your injectable journey.
