Colorado Spa Used Unapproved Botulinum Toxin
Patients who received injections at a Colorado spa between December 2025 and January 2026 were monitored for symptoms.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Beauty
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Between December 2025 and January 2026, 52 patients received botulinum toxin injections at a Colorado medical spa that used unapproved products. Health officials investigated the facility after discovering improper handling and non-FDA-approved materials.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights critical safety risks associated with off-label product sourcing in medical spas. Officials intervened to halt the use of unapproved items that lacked the oversight required to ensure patient safety.
A survey of 27 patients, representing a 47% response rate from the 52 individuals treated, found that three patients experienced symptoms including numbness, muscle weakness, and blurred vision. No hospitalizations occurred, and the investigation remains the primary record of these outcomes.
The players
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
The state agency responsible for evaluating medical safety and investigating health violations at local facilities.
Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies
The state authority overseeing professional licensure and formal complaints regarding business practices.
The details
The facility utilized products that were not FDA-approved, which were sourced from an unauthorized online supplier. Investigations by state health agencies revealed significant safety lapses, including the use of improper diluents and multi-dose vials. Additionally, the spa failed to maintain adequate temperature monitoring for the stored injections, which can compromise the stability of botulinum toxin.
Timeline
Patients received injections between December 2025 and January 2026.
The CDC published the final investigation report on October 8, 2026.
Health Landscape
The medical aesthetics industry relies on strict adherence to the FDA approval processes for biologics to ensure patient safety. Bypassing these standards by sourcing materials from unauthorized online suppliers creates significant gaps in the established safety net for cosmetic procedures.
If you have concerns about the products used during a cosmetic procedure, it is worth discussing the source and regulatory status of your injectables with your doctor. Always verify that your medical provider is licensed and uses FDA-approved materials for every treatment.
The takeaway
Ensuring the safety of cosmetic injectables starts with confirming the medical provider uses only FDA-approved products. If you experience unexpected numbness, muscle weakness, or blurred vision following a procedure, contact your physician immediately.
Further reading
For more information on safety standards in cosmetic procedures, see our guide on Beauty.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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