The Department of Health searched four premises in Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Tsuen Wan and Yuen Long over several days. On 20 October, officers seized injections of the unregistered pharmaceutical product Elravie Re2O at premises in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok and arrested a 38-year-old woman.
Elravie Re2O is promoted as a cosmetic injectable that stimulates skin regeneration and improves fine lines and fullness. Korean media reports cited by HK01 say it is made from donated skin tissue processed to remove cells while retaining extracellular matrix, including collagen and elastin.
Experts cited by HK01 warned that processing may not remove every cell, potentially leaving donor genetic fragments that could pose risks if a donor had a hereditary disease. A plastic surgery specialist interviewed by Star Headline also warned that disease in a donor or inadequate sterilisation could create a risk of virus transmission.
In Hong Kong, products made from human tissue need an exemption from the Director of Health before sale. Products that meet the definition of a pharmaceutical product must also be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong before they can be sold.