New York (WRGB) — The New York Department of State (NYDOS) is warning consumers to exercise caution when seeking medical spa services following a statewide investigation that uncovered widespread violations, unsafe practices, and serious injuries linked to unlicensed providers.
According to state officials, more than 200 inspections of businesses advertising “med spa” services have been conducted across New York, resulting in suspensions, license revocations, and monetary fines. Investigators found that many businesses were performing medical procedures without proper licensing or qualified medical professionals.
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said consumers face serious risks when medical procedures are performed by unlicensed individuals, stating,
Consumers need to be aware of the dangers when medical procedures, including cosmetic medical procedures, are being performed by individuals without an appropriate license, such as a physician or a nurse. 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. I urge consumers to pay close attention to our tips so they can get the services they want and not pay the ultimate price with a botched treatment.
Findings from the Investigation
The Department of State’s Division of Licensing Services led the investigation in partnership with the New York State Department of Health, the State Education Department, and the New York City Office of Oversight and Investigations. Phase one of the probe focused on New York City before expanding statewide.
During inspections, investigators reported finding:
- Expired and suspected counterfeit cosmetic products
- Controlled substances including fentanyl, xylocaine, and propofol
- Used and unused needles stored improperly
- Medical devices for procedures such as laser liposuction, cryotherapy, buttock augmentation, microneedling, and intravenous infusions
- Numerous individuals performing medical procedures without appropriate licenses
In total, 223 businesses were inspected statewide. Eighty-seven were cited for potential violations, including the unlawful practice of medicine. While many cases are still pending administrative hearings, enforcement actions have already included fines and license suspensions or revocations. Inspections will continue as part of the Department’s annual oversight program.
New York State officials cited multiple cases, separate from the current investigation, highlighting the dangers of unlicensed med spa services. These incidents included consumers suffering infections, burns, allergic reactions, poisoning, and permanent scarring after receiving injections of unknown or counterfeit substances from unlicensed providers.
Health Commissioner James McDonald emphasized that only licensed medical professionals are qualified to perform these procedures, stating,
The Department of Health reminds New Yorkers of the importance of ensuring their provider has the proper qualifications and training, especially as cosmetic med spa procedures become more popular. Licensed health care professionals undergo rigorous training to understand the complexities of human physiology, and are the only individuals qualified to perform these services. The Department of Health will continue to investigate and hold individuals and practices accountable who offer unauthorized services that put people’s lives at risk.
State officials stress that any business promoting itself as a “med spa” or offering medical cosmetic procedures must be licensed as a medical facility, and services such as injections, laser treatments, IV therapy, and hormone treatments must be performed by licensed professionals.
Common medical procedures that require a professional license include:
- Botox or filler injections
- Liposuction and body sculpting
- Cryotherapy
- Microneedling
- Laser procedures (excluding laser hair removal)
- IV therapy and vitamin infusions
- Weight-loss medications such as GLP-1 drugs
- Hormone replacement therapy
Consumers are urged to verify provider credentials, request a medical consultation before treatment, and confirm licensure through state agency websites. Complaints about unlicensed providers or unsafe practices can be filed with the appropriate state agency or local law enforcement if harm has occurred.
Additional guidance, resources, and licensing information are available on the New York Department of State’s website.