Health officials say 10 people became severely ill between May and August 2025 after using fake Botox injections bought via social media.
According to a new advisory from the New York City Department of Health released on December 1, at least one of the patients lived in New York, and three hospitalized patients required intubation and a ventilator.
The patients reported “contacting the vendors and purchasing the products through messaging platforms such as WhatsApp. Many of the products were described as vials of white powder without labels, meaning they were missing essential information, such as the product’s name, concentration, dosage, expiration date, manufacturer, lot number, instructions, and warnings."
Botox injections remain one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today. Less invasive and often cheaper than other forms of plastic surgery, they’re widely sought by those hoping to smooth facial lines. Yet while Botox can also treat conditions like excessive sweating and acne, it’s not without risks—making it crucial to stay informed before deciding if it’s right for you.
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