A woman preparing for her wedding photoshoot suffered severe facial disfigurement after undergoing microneedle treatment at a beauty salon she had been frequenting for two years.
The bride-to-be, identified as Ms Zhang, experienced significant swelling, pus-filled bumps, and impaired vision post-treatment. She shared that the distress from her condition prevents her from going outside without wearing a mask.
The Hong Kong resident was persuaded to undergo the microneedle procedure, involving an electric pen injecting serums deep into the skin, to achieve flawless skin for an upcoming photoshoot in Japan. Despite having naturally fair and smooth skin, her beautician recommended the treatment to rejuvenate her complexion before the photoshoot.
During the procedure, Ms Zhang felt stinging and numbness, primarily in her neck, but was assured by the therapist that everything was normal. The following day, her face and neck were severely swollen, red, and covered in pus-filled bumps.
Despite following recommended skincare routines, her condition worsened. Her eyes swelled shut, affecting her vision, and pus around her neck made breathing difficult. A doctor diagnosed her with a severe skin infection and administered treatments, accumulating medical expenses of approximately £938 (HKD 10,000).
Two weeks later, her skin remained inflamed, unfit for makeup for her upcoming wedding. Seeking compensation for lost earnings, travel expenses, and ongoing medical bills, she pursued a total of about £4,194 (HKD 44,720).
The salon downplayed her symptoms initially, attributing them to normal reactions and inadequate skin moisture. Negotiations for compensation broke down as the salon offered £1,876 (HKD 20,000), which Ms Zhang refused due to inadequate coverage of her losses.
Feeling threatened, she reported the incident to the police. The salon also filed a report and contacted the Consumer Council, stating they had warned her about potential reactions to the treatment.
Ms Zhang, still undergoing treatment with an uncertain recovery timeline, expressed feeling betrayed after years of regular clinic visits. Concerns arise that her skin may not fully heal in time for her wedding later this year.
This case highlights the risks of invasive cosmetic procedures close to significant life events. Investigations are ongoing, and a settlement has not been reached yet.