Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is warning of a potential exposure to blood-borne infections for some clients of Gorgeous Brows and Lashes Beauty Salon after identifying improper sterilization practices at the salons.
Public health inspectors identified an infection prevention and control lapse (IPAC) during routine inspections at Gorgeous Brows and Lashes, located at 3900 Innes Road or 2210 Bank Street, according to OPH. The two salons are located inside Walmart stores.
The alert is for anyone who received a manual facial using a comedone extractor with lancet, a procedure to remove blackheads and treat clogged pores, before Dec. 6, 2024.
“An IPAC lapse occurs when, for example, cleaning and sterilization best practices are not followed properly, potentially risking infection to clients and employees,” the health unit said. “OPH inspections identified improper sterilization of multiuse comedone extractor with lancet used to remove blackheads and treat clogged pores.”
In a media release, public health says the owner/operator of the Gorgeous Brows and Lashes locations has cooperated with the investigation.
“The practices that led to the IPAC lapse have been corrected by the operator and there is no known ongoing risk to the public,” the health unit said.
“OPH’s investigation remains open – at this time no cases of blood-borne infections have been directly linked to this IPAC lapse.”
The alert is not directed to anyone who only received other services at Gorgeous Brows and Lashes such as threading, tinting, lash extension or henna tattoo services, according to the health unit.
Ottawa Public Health recommends you speak to a healthcare provider as a precaution if you received a manual facial procedure where a multiuse comedone extractor with lancet was used before Dec. 6.
“If you are unsure if this type of instrument was used, speak to a health care provider to better understand your risk,” the health unit said.
“Consultation with a healthcare provider will help assess risk of blood-borne infections based on the type of procedure received and your overall health status and determine if testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV is appropriate for you.”
