In a case that exposes the dark side of social media beauty trends, a Florida woman has been jailed for performing dangerous and illegal cosmetic procedures on clients without a medical license, brazenly promoting her services on TikTok.
Jasmine Garcia, 31, from Orlando, was sentenced to a year in prison followed by five years of probation after pleading guilty to multiple counts of practicing medicine without a license. Her arrest followed a thorough investigation by the Florida Department of Health.
The TikTok Facade
Garcia cultivated a significant online presence on TikTok, portraying herself as a qualified aesthetics expert. Her social media feed was filled with slick videos showcasing Botox injections, lip fillers, and other cosmetic enhancements she performed in non-sterile settings, including her own apartment and a local beauty salon.
She offered cut-price deals, luring in clients seeking affordable beauty treatments. "She seemed so professional online, and her prices were unbeatable," said one former client, who wished to remain anonymous. "There was no reason to doubt her credentials."
A Trail of Harm and Deception
Investigators revealed that Garcia's procedures resulted in serious complications for numerous clients. Victims reported severe infections, lumpy and misshapen fillers, and chronic pain following treatments. Many required extensive and costly corrective surgery from licensed medical professionals to repair the damage.
Authorities confirmed that Garcia had no medical training or qualifications whatsoever. She illegally purchased the pharmaceutical products, including genuine Botox and various dermal fillers, from unregulated sources, putting clients at extreme risk.
Justice Served
At her sentencing, the judge condemned Garcia's actions as a "premeditated and dangerous fraud motivated by greed." In addition to her prison sentence, she is prohibited from administering any cosmetic or medical treatments in the future.
The case has sparked urgent calls for tighter regulation of the aesthetics industry and greater scrutiny of practitioners who use social media to attract business. "This sentencing sends a clear message that endangering lives for profit will not be tolerated," a statement from the prosecution read.
Potential clients are urged to always verify a practitioner's medical license with the relevant state board before undergoing any procedure.
