London, ON – A device used in some personal service settings and private homes across London and Middlesex County was the subject of a Health Canada advisory issued last week. Health Canada issued the news release on November 26th advising consumers that plasma pens, also known as “fibroblast devices”, are not approved in Canada. As they have not been evaluated for safety, effectiveness or quality, the agency has declared that the devices may pose health risks and is recommending that consumers avoid the use of plasma pens, whether at a spa, esthetician, cosmetic clinic, or any other location, including private homes.
Earlier this week, the Middlesex-London Health Unit consulted both Health Canada and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. As a result, the Health Unit is reaching out to local businesses known to have plasma pens and is asking that they cease using the devices immediately. Follow-up inspections will be conducted to ensure that plasma pens are no longer being used; any business found to be using the devices at that time could be fined.
“According to Health Canada plasma pens may pose health risks, so we want to ensure that no one is using these devices, or is receiving treatments that involve them,” says Dr. Alex Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health at the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We’re aware of some local businesses that use this kind of equipment but we suspect there may be more out there. We’re hoping the community can help us get the message to other businesses or individuals who may be providing these services.”
When used as recommended, plasma pens may cause pain, swelling in treated areas, redness, sagging skin (particularly in upper eyelids), hyperpigmentation (spots), ultraviolet sensitivity as well as skin peeling and crusting. Additional risks resulting from improper use could include skin puncture with the tip, excessive skin burns caused by overuse or prolonged use, burns to the eye or burn complications such as scarring and infection.
Plasma pens are small handheld medical devices that focus electricity to the surface of the skin, causing a controlled burn which spreads heat in targeted areas of the body. The devices have been promoted for cosmetic skin treatments, including eyelid lifts, wrinkle reduction and the removal of moles, skin tags, scars and spots.
For more information about Health Canada’s advisory about plasma pens call 1-866-225-0709 or visit www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html and search plasma pen. To advise the Middlesex-London Health Unit about a spa, salon or home-based business that uses plasma pens, please call (519) 663-5317, extension 2330.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit,
519-663-5317 ext.2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell)
Spokesperson:
Dr. Alex Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health at the Middlesex-London Health Unit