Facial and hair beauty products of varied types dominate the cosmetics sector, especially the much commercialised field of cosmetology, which is now a booming medical practice.
However, people’s obsession with fair skin, uninformed application of anti-fungal creams, and technologies like hair transplant have become serious public health issues.
Though medical professionals are demanding the enforcement of certain regulations, little is being done, said Dr. Firoz K., secretary of the Kerala branch of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists. “There are several creams and medicines that should be brought under the Schedule H drugs. But little is done on that front. Moreover, there is no censorship on advertisements which claim that the use of certain creams lightens the skin,” he added.
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Incidentally, the catchy phrases used in advertisements make a deep impact on people’s psyche. However, professionals warn that many of the beauty creams available over the counter or at beauty salons contain steroids. And, their long-term use may lead to a condition called ‘topical steroid-damaged face’. Fairness creams and those used for fungal infections are among the most sought-after products. Their unbridled use has left quite a few people grappling with adverse effects.
Hair transplant is another procedure which is high in demand. However, most people are unaware that they have to be done in aseptic conditions. “There was even an instance of a medical student in Chennai dying of infection acquired through hair transplant,” said Dr. Feroz.
Having said that, a few admit to taking recourse to creams available over the counter for fungal infections. The fact remains that such creams cause more damage than cure as most people are unaware of their side effects. Fast results make people go for a particular cream over and over again, thereby using it for months or even years. However, a dermatologist would prescribe a medicine or cream for a fixed duration, say two weeks or less.
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Overuse of creams also leads to a condition called ‘steroid addiction syndrome’ wherein a person finds it difficult to stop its use. Such abuse of products damages the natural complexion and makes the skin lose its usual thickness, eventually leading to skin ageing.