The Risks of Buying Skin Devices & Products from Overseas (And What the TGA Requires)

With so many affordable skincare devices and products available online, it can be tempting to purchase from overseas suppliers.

But when it comes to professional treatments, not all products are created equal, and not all are legal in Australia.

What Is the TGA?

In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates products used for medical and aesthetic purposes.

This includes:

• Numbing creams
• Skincare products
• Cosmetic tattoo pigments
• Beauty machines & equipment

Why TGA Approval Matters

Before a product or device can be legally supplied in Australia, it must meet strict standards for:

• Safety
• Quality
• Performance

Approved products are listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and will have an AUST R or AUST L number.

👉 If a product doesn’t have this, it is probably not  approved for use in Australia.

The Risks of Buying Overseas Products

1. No Quality Control

Products purchased from overseas may:

• Be counterfeit or poorly manufactured
• Contain unsafe or banned ingredients
• Lack proper sterilisation (for devices)

2. Legal Risks for Businesses

Using unapproved products or devices can lead to:

• Fines and penalties
• Loss of insurance coverage
• Legal liability if something goes wrong

3. Safety Risks for Clients

Unregulated devices (such as beauty machines & equipment) can:

• Deliver incorrect energy levels
• Cause burns or skin damage
• Lead to inconsistent or poor results

Medical Devices Are Strictly Regulated

Many aesthetic machines are classified as medical devices, which means they must:

• Be TGA approved or registered
• Be used according to training and scope
• Meet Australian safety standards

👉 Not all machines sold online meet these requirements, even if they look identical.

Why We Only Use Approved Products

We choose to work with compliant, approved products and devices because:

✔ Your safety is our top priority
✔ We meet Australian legal requirements
✔ Our results are consistent and reliable
✔ We protect both our clients and our business

What to Look For as a Client

If you’re ever unsure, ask your provider:

• Is this product or device TGA approved?
• Does it have an AUST R or AUST L number?
• Is it sourced from an Australian supplier?

A professional clinic will always be transparent.

Final Thoughts

Buying cheaper products or devices from overseas might seem appealing to keep treatment prices down, but the risks can far outweigh the savings.

When you choose a clinic that follows Australian regulations, you’re choosing:

✨ Safety
✨ Compliance
✨ Professional care