Celebrity Facialist'S Chemical Peel Nightmare: Woman Claims $90K In Damages

Allegations Against a Renowned Facialist

Victoria Nelson is making headlines with her shocking allegations against famed Beverly Hills esthetician Sonya Dakar. Known for her A-list clientele, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Cameron Diaz, and Drew Barrymore, Dakar is now facing accusations of causing permanent skin damage. Nelson's viral TikTok video, which has amassed over 5 million views, details her distressing experience after a chemical peel gone wrong.

The Treatment That Went Awry

Back in 2019, Nelson first sought Dakar's help to tackle her persistent acne. "I was immediately enthralled," she recalls, reflecting on the bond they developed over their sessions. But in April 2021, during a routine facial, Nelson agreed to a chemical peel – a decision she now deeply regrets. She describes the immediate burning sensation and the alarming sight of her own skin appearing severely burned. Despite Dakar's assurances that the burns would heal in a month, Nelson's ordeal was far from over.

“I don't really know how to accurately convey how little I want to be making this video right now, but I've kind of run out of options,” Nelson shares in her heartfelt video.

The Cost of Recovery

Nelson's quest to repair the damage has been both emotionally and financially draining. After spending an estimated $30,000 on Dakar's treatments without success, she turned to a dermatologist in July 2022. The specialist was baffled by the initial lack of referral to a burn unit and concerned about the peel's unknown composition. Laser treatments added another $8,000 to Nelson's expenses, and yet, the scars persist.

Legal and Professional Implications

In her pursuit of justice, Nelson has filed a complaint with the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, although there has been no resolution so far. She highlights past disciplinary actions against Dakar, including a license revocation in 2011. Despite the setbacks, Nelson's video serves as a cautionary tale. "To be clear, this isn't a woe-is-me video. It's a 'be warned' video," she emphasizes, urging others to be cautious when seeking beauty treatments.

Unanswered Questions

Nelson's relationship with Dakar ended in 2023, but the questions surrounding the treatment linger. The board's regulations clearly state that medical-grade products and microneedling exceed an esthetician's scope of practice. With $90,000 spent and visible scars remaining, Nelson's story underscores the potential risks of cosmetic procedures gone wrong. As the beauty industry continues to grow, her experience is a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and professional accountability.