Authorities investigate illegal botox and enhancement parties in private residences

Health authorities in Cyprus are investigating a surge in unregulated aesthetic and physical enhancement gatherings, commonly referred to as "botox parties," held in private residences. Elena Panagiotopoulou, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, confirmed that these events involve unauthorized individuals administering Botox, hyaluronic acid, and injectable vitamin cocktails to young people. The situation gained urgency after a 20-year-old woman was hospitalized with a severe allergic reaction following an injection in her lips at one such gathering.

Investigations are complicated by the private nature of these events, which often require court warrants for police to gain entry. Authorities have received multiple reports over the past six months regarding both "girls' parties" for aesthetic procedures and "boys' parties" for bodybuilding cocktails. Many of the substances seized during raids are unregistered, lack safety certification, and are reportedly sourced via the internet or the occupied territories. The Pharmaceutical Services department is currently working with the police to build cases, though officials note that many potential witnesses are reluctant to testify. Authorities strongly advise against these procedures, warning that they pose significant health risks, including potential fatalities, when performed by non-professionals outside of medical facilities.