MONACO offers a lucrative market for non-invasive, game-changing health and beauty innovations, but a leading expert has warned against fake devices and unqualified practitioners,
Vanessa Brown calls for greater industry accountability to ‘name and shame’ offenders profiting from sub-par and potentially harmful treatments.
As founder of UK-based VL Aesthetics and Head of Sales and Marketing, Europe, Middle East, and Africa for US-based Erchonia, she champions the shift towards innovative devices like Erchonia’s Emerald Laser and Hydrafacial, delivering non-invasive, skin-enhancing results.
But Vanessa warned of counterfeit machines, particularly copycat versions of the Emerald Laser and Hydrafacial devices, sold at a fraction of the price by unregulated operators.
“Fake machines, often imported from the Far East, look similar to the genuine devices but lack the rigorous safety standards and proven results,” said Vanessa.
“These cowboy operators are using ineffective equipment that not only fails to deliver results but can also damage the body. The public is being misled into paying for treatments that won’t give them the improvements they desire.”
Vanessa emphasised the importance of investing in authentic, FDA (US Food & Drug Administration) approved devices like the Emerald Laser, which promotes fat loss, improves cellular health, stimulates stem cells, and even assists with weight loss—all without invasive procedures like Liposuction.
“Unfortunately, rogue practitioners are undercutting legitimate clinics but providing substandard care,” said Vanessa. “And many customers are unaware that what they're paying for is not the real deal.
“We’ve seen examples of Botox and other treatments offered at house parties or through door-to-door sales, and now we’re seeing the same with fake devices like the Emerald Laser and Hydrafacial. It’s a Wild West out there, and it’s the customers who are suffering.”
Vanessa called for immediate action from governments to tighten regulations and enforce penalties on unlicensed operators, adding: “Many European nations lack a clear regulatory framework equivalent to America’s FDA. Without stricter oversight, we are going to see more patients fall victim to these fake devices.
“So, as the demand for non-invasive, high-quality treatments grows, consumers must be diligent in choosing reputable practitioners and ensuring their machines are authentic. The stakes are too high when it comes to your health. You need to trust that the treatment you're receiving is both safe and effective.”