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Singapore Doctor Fined S$30,000 for Allowing Unqualified Participant to Administer Botox

Singapore, September 4, 2025 — Aesthetic physician Dr. Tan Say Lock, 47, has been fined S$30,000 after admitting to letting an unqualified individual administer Botox injections during a professional training session—a violation under the Medical Registration Act. The fine, determined by the court on September 3, will be paid by Dr. Tan’s wife through installment payments.

The case stems from a June 2018 course conducted by Dr. Tan on dermal fillers and Botox techniques, attended by Xu Hong, who paid S$2,500 for participation. Though Dr. Tan provided theoretical instruction and demonstration, he then allowed Xu—who was not a registered medical practitioner—to practice injections on other participants under his supervision.

During proceedings, the Ministry of Health prosecutor, Andre Tan, stressed the risks to participants from such an arrangement, citing potential skin infections, inflammation, and asymmetrical muscle paralysis. He emphasized that even if Dr. Tan’s intent was educational, he should have limited his role to explaining techniques rather than facilitating hands-on practice by unauthorized individuals.

The offense was first flagged during an unrelated 2020 investigation into Xu, which ended in her conviction and sentencing to two months in jail for administering Botox, hyaluronic acid, and scar treatment injections without proper credentials.

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  • Bernard is a social activist dedicated to championing community empowerment, equality, and social justice. With a strong voice on issues affecting grassroots communities, he brings insightful perspectives shaped by on-the-ground advocacy and public engagement. As a columnist for The Ledger Asia, Bernard writes thought-provoking pieces that challenge norms, highlight untold stories, and inspire conversations aimed at building a more inclusive and equitable society.

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