State officials are urging New Yorkers to think twice before booking cosmetic procedures at so-called med spas.
The New York Department of State issued a consumer warning this week after statewide investigations uncovered widespread problems at businesses offering unauthorized med spa services. More than 200 inspections have already led to fines, suspensions, and license revocations.
Unlicensed services, serious injuries
Investigators inspected 223 businesses across New York State and cited 87 for possible violations, including the unlawful practice of medicine. Many cases remain pending, but enforcement actions so far have included monetary penalties and license suspensions or revocations.
During inspections, investigators reported finding expired or suspected counterfeit Botox and fillers, unsanitary conditions, and controlled substances such as fentanyl, xylocaine, and propofol. They also discovered used needles, medical devices, and people performing medical procedures without the proper licenses.
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said the risks to consumers can be severe.
“Consumers need to be aware of the dangers when medical procedures, including cosmetic medical procedures, are being performed by individuals without an appropriate license,” Mosley said. “Unlicensed or unqualified staff, dirty needles, expired or counterfeit drugs such as Botox or fillers, and unsanitary conditions can lead to serious injury or even death.”
Cases highlight potential harm
State officials pointed to past cases to illustrate the risks, including incidents involving severe infections, allergic reactions, burns, and long-term scarring after injections of unknown or counterfeit substances by unlicensed providers. In some cases, patients were hospitalized and practitioners lost their licenses.
While those examples were not part of the current investigation, officials said they show what can happen when medical procedures are performed outside the law.
What counts as a medical procedure
State officials stressed that many treatments marketed as “non-invasive” still require a medical license. Procedures such as Botox and filler injections, microneedling, cryotherapy, laser treatments, IV therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and weight-loss drugs like GLP-1 medications must be performed by licensed medical professionals.
Any business advertising or offering med spa services must be licensed as a medical facility or medical practice and operate under the supervision of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner.
How consumers can protect themselves
The Department of State advises consumers to verify licenses before receiving treatment. Medical directors and provider credentials should be clearly listed, and patients should receive a medical consultation before any procedure.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said licensed professionals receive the training needed to safely perform these services.
“Licensed health care professionals undergo rigorous training to understand the complexities of human physiology,” McDonald said. “They are the only individuals qualified to perform these services.”
Consumers are also encouraged to check for past disciplinary actions, read reviews, and report concerns to the appropriate state agency or local law enforcement if harm occurs.
State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said public awareness plays a key role.
“When unqualified individuals operate outside the law, the risks to consumers are real and serious,” Rosa said. “Through strong collaboration and public awareness, we can help ensure New Yorkers are informed and protected.”
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