Florida Department of Health Issues New Health Alert

​The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has issued a new health alert concerning risky cosmetic procedures in the United States.

"The Florida Department of Health is issuing a health alert regarding unlicensed cosmetic procedures," their post from yesterday evening states, in part.

"The Florida Department of Health is monitoring reports of harmful reactions from counterfeit, unlicensed, and unsterile cosmetic procedures occuring around the U.S."

The post specifically mentions the risk of contracting botulism from counterfeit botox injections and the risk of spreading HIV and other bloodborn illnesses through "vampire facials," a trendy new cosmetic therapy that involves drawing blood, extracting the platelets, and then reinjecting them into the face to stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate the skin. It is called "vampire" because it involves using the patient's own blood.

To mitigate the potential hazards tied to counterfeit cosmetic procedures, the DOH advocates for individuals seeking such treatments to exclusively engage licensed, trained professionals. Additionally, the DOH advises individuals who have received injections or undergone procedures and are exhibiting symptoms indicative of botulism or other adverse reactions to promptly seek medical assistance.
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The entire post can be viewed here.