Skin creams containing steroids will have serious side-effects and cause skin problems, dermatologists have warned.
The State unit functionaries of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL) say that such creams, used for curing acne or for fairer skin, will cause skin problems if used without medical advice.
Dermatologists prescribe the creams for a certain period after examining the patient. But the creams are often abused as they are available over-the-counter. S. Rajiv, president-elect of the IADVL Kerala Chapter, said at a press conference here on Thursday that the association had demanded that the Drugs Control Department take steps to regulate the sale of skin creams with steroids without medical prescription. Doctors prescribed such creams for a certain period, but patients continued to use them long after.
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Dr. Rajiv said that abuse of the steroid-based creams was often driven by an obsession for fairer skin. Many people believed that fair skin guaranteed success and acceptance.
The State conference of the IADVL, christened Cuticon Kerala 2015, would be held here on May 9 and 10. The Kannur Derma Club is hosting the meet. Experts will lead classes and discussions on skin diseases and cure, organising committee chairman M.P. Ashraf said.
IADVL national president Venkataram Mysoor will be the chief guest, Dr. Ashraf said. Dermatologist Anil Abraham (St. Johns Medical College, Bangalore) will deliver the keynote address on ‘Skin diseases related to lifestyle.’
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