Massachusetts Med Spa Owner Pleads Guilty in Federal Counterfeit Injection Case

A Massachusetts medical spa owner has pleaded guilty in federal court to multiple criminal charges stemming from the use of counterfeit injectable products and the unauthorized practice of medicine, according to a recent announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.

The defendant, a 40‑year‑old Stoughton, Mass., woman and owner of Skin Beaute Med Spa, admitted to importing counterfeit Botox and dermal fillers from overseas and performing thousands of injections on clients without appropriate medical licensure. The med spa operated locations in Randolph and South Easton, Massachusetts.

Federal prosecutors allege that beginning in at least March 2021, the owner imported counterfeit versions of Botox, Sculptra, and Juvéderm from China and Brazil and administered injections using those products over a period of several years. Authorities state that the defendant received more than $1 million in client payments related to these procedures.

According to court documents, the defendant falsely represented herself as a licensed nurse to clients and staff. In reality, she was licensed only as an aesthetician and was not authorized under Massachusetts law to perform injections or to prescribe, dispense, or administer prescription drugs or medical devices.

The defendant pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges, including importing merchandise contrary to law and selling or dispensing counterfeit drugs and devices. She was arrested and charged in November 2024. Sentencing is scheduled for July 1, 2026, and the charges carry the potential for significant prison time and financial penalties under federal law.

In connection with the case, federal officials have advised any individuals who believe they may have received counterfeit injectable products from the med spa between 2021 and 2025 to contact the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations through its victim assistance program.

Know your med spa compliance

This case underscores several core compliance principles:

• Only appropriately licensed medical professionals may perform injectable procedures, and credentials should be clearly verified and communicated to patients.
• All prescription injectables and devices must be FDA‑approved and legally sourced through authorized suppliers.
• Medical spas are medical practices, and failure to follow state and federal law can expose owners, providers, and patients to serious harm.

The use of counterfeit injectables presents significant risks, including infection, vascular complications, immune reactions, and unknown dosing or ingredients. Beyond patient safety concerns, these cases can result in criminal liability, civil exposure, and permanent damage to professional and business reputations.

It’s a good idea for medical spa professionals to regularly review their compliance practices, confirm licensure and supervision requirements under state law, and ensure that all drugs and devices are obtained through legitimate, traceable supply chains.

For education and resources on medical spa laws, scope of practice, supervision, and compliance best practices, become an AmSpa Member today.