Infection risk from some facials at 2 Ottawa salons: OPH
Improper sterilization at salons inside a Walmart before Dec. 6, 2024
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) says a routine inspection of two Gorgeous Brows and Lashes locations found improper sterilization of equipment used during some "manual facials."
People who had a facial with a comedone extractor and lancet at 3900 Innes Rd. or 2210 Bank St. before Dec. 6, 2024, should talk to a health-care provider about their level of risk to blood-borne infections such as HIV or hepatitis B or C.
The health unit said in a news release and explainer that this equipment is used to remove blackheads and treat clogged pores.
Both salons are inside a Walmart: one at Innes and Mer Bleue roads, the other in the South Keys shopping centre.
OPH said the outlets have improved their sterilization practices and management has co-operated with the health investigation. OPH said it's not aware of any infections linked to this equipment.
People who don't have a primary care provider can get tested for free at a walk-in clinic. The provincial 811 health advice service can help find a clinic, OPH said.