A woman preparing for her wedding photoshoot suffered disfigurement after undergoing microneedle treatment. Ms. Zhang experienced severe swelling, pus-filled bumps, and vision impairment following the procedure at a long-standing beauty salon she frequented. She is now too distressed to go out without a mask.

Enticed by promises of a flawless complexion for her upcoming photo session in Japan, Ms. Zhang, a resident of Hong Kong, opted for the treatment using an electric pen to inject serums deep into her skin. Despite her fair skin, her beautician recommended the microneedle procedure to rejuvenate her look. The process involved using an electric microneedle pen to introduce essences directly into her skin.

During the treatment, Ms. Zhang felt stinging and numbness, especially in her neck, but the therapist dismissed her concerns. The following day, her face and neck were red, swollen, and covered in white pustules. Despite following post-treatment recommendations, her condition worsened, leading to impaired vision and breathing issues.

Labeling her face as “rotten” and “pitted,” Ms. Zhang sought medical help and incurred significant expenses for treatment. Despite ongoing care, her skin remained unsuitable for makeup, affecting her upcoming wedding plans. Seeking compensation for financial losses and medical bills, she faced resistance from the salon, which downplayed her symptoms and offered insufficient reimbursement.

The dispute escalated when the salon’s representative accused her of pursuing money and using emotional tactics. Despite claims of following strict hygiene protocols, the salon failed to acknowledge responsibility for the adverse effects of the treatment. Negotiations collapsed over compensation discrepancies, with Ms. Zhang declining the salon’s inadequate offer.

Feeling threatened, Ms. Zhang reported the incident to the authorities, prompting both her and the salon to involve law enforcement and consumer protection agencies. With uncertain recovery prospects, she expressed feelings of betrayal after years of patronage at the clinic and concerns about her skin healing in time for her upcoming wedding.

This case highlights the risks associated with cosmetic procedures before significant life events. Investigations are ongoing, and a settlement has not been reached, underscoring the unresolved nature of the situation.