Swapping concepts for profit
In the role of a customer who needs beauty treatments with fillers, reporters surveyed some beauty establishments in Hanoi.
At a facility on Ba Trieu street (Cua Nam ward), a consultant "distorted the concept" when claiming that the self-fat PRP beauty method can be understood as beauty treatment with stem cells.
“My skin has many signs of aging and lack of moisture. In addition to filler filling, I advise you to make more organic fat. This can be understood as stem cells, which are very good for the skin because they are endogenous from your body. I believe you, just 1-2 weeks and you will see a clear difference,” Hoang Anh (character name changed), facility staff, advised.
Not only stopping at services, products labeled "carp cells" are also advertised rampant on social networks. An account named Phuong Nguyen (character name has been changed) regularly advertises wholesale sales of "carp cell" products of animal origin to beauty establishments.
However, when reporters contacted to buy directly at an apartment in Tu Liem ward (Hanoi), the account holder refused to meet. "Rain cells are sensitive goods, I only sell them to regular spas, wholesale customers. Retail customers like me cannot come to the place. If you want, I will send the goods to your place, but not directly," this person said.
In fact, "stem cell" products originating from animals have not yet been licensed for use in beauty services in Vietnam. However, taking advantage of the lack of understanding of consumers and ambiguous advertising methods, many establishments still use this phrase to attract customers and profit.
Experts warn of risks and management loopholes
According to Dr. Vo Thi Nhi Ha - Head of the Department of Science Research and Technology Development Management, Department of Science, Technology and Training, Ministry of Health, to research and apply stem cells in medicine, procedures must undergo strict and long-term inspection to ensure safety and effectiveness.
To do a study related to stem cells, it must go through a very complex and strict process, with a relatively long time" - Dr. Vo Nhi Ha said.
Also according to experts, the reality is that there is currently a situation of exaggerated advertising, even "sanifying" the uses of stem cells as a solution to cure "all diseases".
Currently, quality control in the market is also very complicated. There are products that are smuggled, floating, and of unknown origin. These are challenges in management work" - Dr. Vo Nhi Ha emphasized.
According to medical experts, the use of unlicensed, unverified products or services can cause many complications such as allergies, infections or long-term injuries.
Faced with this situation, consumers need to be cautious about advertisements such as "immediate rejuvenation", "fast effectiveness" or " stem cell technology". Choosing reputable, licensed establishments and consulting professional opinions is an important factor to ensure safety.
In summary, despite being an important achievement of medicine, stem cells are being distorted in the field of beauty. Tightening management and raising consumer awareness is necessary to limit risks.
