A soon-to-be bride suffered disfigurement after undergoing microneedle treatment prior to a wedding photoshoot. Ms. Zhang experienced severe facial and neck swelling, pus-filled bumps, and partial blindness following the procedure at a beauty salon she had frequented for two years.
Feeling distressed, Ms. Zhang now wears a mask when going outside due to her condition. She was convinced to have the treatment using an electric pen to inject serums deep into her skin for a flawless look for an upcoming wedding photoshoot in Japan.
Despite having naturally fair and smooth skin, her beautician recommended the microneedle procedure to rejuvenate her complexion for the photoshoot. The treatment involved using an electric microneedle pen to introduce essences directly into her skin.
During the session, Ms. Zhang experienced stinging and numbness, particularly in her neck, but was reassured by the therapist. The next day, her face and neck were red, swollen, and covered in white pustules.
Despite following recommended skincare routines, her condition worsened. Her eyes swelled shut, affecting her vision, and pus around her neck made breathing difficult. A GP diagnosed a severe skin infection and administered steroid and antibiotic treatments, with medical costs totaling around £938 (HKD 10,000).
Two weeks later, the swelling persisted, and her skin was still unsuitable for makeup for her upcoming wedding. Seeking compensation for lost earnings, travel expenses, and medical bills, she aimed for approximately £4,194 (HKD 44,720) in total.
The salon initially dismissed her symptoms as normal reactions and attributed the issues to lack of moisture. During negotiations, the beautician’s husband became hostile, accusing her of seeking money and emotional manipulation.
Denying any responsibility, the salon claimed to have followed strict sterilization procedures and used fresh needles, with no evidence linking the treatment to the infection. Compensation discussions broke down when the salon offered around £1,876 (HKD 20,000), which Ms. Zhang rejected as insufficient to cover her losses.
Feeling threatened, Ms. Zhang reported the incident to the police. The salon also filed a report with the police and contacted the Consumer Council, stating they had warned her of possible reactions and respected her decision to proceed with the treatment.
Ms. Zhang, undergoing ongoing treatment with an uncertain recovery timeline, feels betrayed after years of regular clinic visits. She worries her skin may not fully heal in time for her upcoming wedding.
This case highlights the risks of invasive cosmetic procedures before significant life events. Investigations are ongoing, with no settlement reached yet.
