5,000 Doctors Call for Tougher Penalties for Illegal Cosmetic Injections

Paris – 02 August 2026: In an urgent appeal, 5,000 doctors have turned to Health Minister Stéphanie Rist. Following the deaths of two young women who underwent illegal aesthetic injections in recent months, they are demanding stricter sanctions and more effective oversight. The medical professionals warn of offers promoted via social networks that portray cosmetic procedures as a straightforward service.

The issue primarily concerns injections of hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin administered by people without the required medical qualifications. The signatories criticize the fact that such treatments remain easily accessible despite the known dangers. The published appeal does not provide details of the two deaths or the status of any potential investigations.

The Health Ministry has long pointed out that aesthetic injections performed by beauticians or other members of non-medical professions are unlawful. An injection is not an ordinary beauty product: depending on the substance and injection site, there is a risk of infections, vascular occlusions, tissue damage and permanent impairment. Complications in the face may also require prompt specialist treatment. Without medical knowledge and appropriate emergency measures, the risk of serious consequences increases.

One case that became known occurred in Villeurbanne near Lyon. According to information from a Senate debate, a woman died there in spring 2026 after a covert injection administered by an unqualified person. Investigations and possible criminal liability in this case must be considered separately from the new doctors’ appeal. However, the signatories regard it as an alarming example of the dangers posed by unregulated services.

The distribution of the products used is also a political concern. In May 2026, Senator Elisabeth Doineau asked the government for stricter controls, higher penalties and better regulation of distribution channels for injectable products. In addition to those carrying out the procedures, potential intermediaries on social networks and retailers are therefore also coming under scrutiny. Using these products requires expertise, hygiene standards and the ability to act immediately in the event of complications.

The National Medical Council had already warned of serious complications from aesthetic procedures and called for clear qualification rules for treating doctors. The current appeal is aimed primarily at people offering medical services without authorization. For patients, verifiable qualifications, comprehensive information, documented products and accessible follow-up care provide essential safety. These safeguards are often lacking in illegal offers.