Hyderabad — Leading dermatologists are raising serious concerns about the increasing number of unqualified individuals offering treatments for skin, hair, and aesthetic issues under the misleading label of “cosmetology.” These unauthorized practices are not only illegal but pose significant health risks, including delayed diagnosis, resistant infections, and permanent skin damage.
The problem spans a broad spectrum—from common conditions like acne, pigmentation, and hair loss to complex procedures such as fillers and laser treatments. Many providers come from non-medical backgrounds, including alternative medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, or no health science training at all, often promoting their services aggressively through social media.
“Conditions like acne could be symptoms of serious diseases such as skin tuberculosis, and hair fall might signal thyroid or autoimmune disorders,” explained Dr. Rajetha Damisetty, a practicing dermatologist. She cautioned against trusting parlors and clinics run by individuals without formal training in human pathology. “This is dangerous because misdiagnosis or improper treatment can have severe consequences.”
One alarming trend highlighted by dermatologists is the rampant misuse of steroid creams by unqualified practitioners, particularly in treating fungal infections. Dr. Damisetty warned, “What looks like a quick fix can worsen the problem, fueling an epidemic of resistant tinea infections across India.”
According to the National Medical Commission Act, 2023, only certified dermatologists, venereologists, and leprologists are legally authorized to manage skin, hair, and nail conditions. However, misleading titles like “clinical cosmetologist” or “medical cosmetologist”—which lack regulatory recognition—continue to confuse and mislead patients.
Dr. Revathi Mella, a senior dermatologist, reported seeing patients suffering from complications caused by such unscientific treatments. “We encounter cases of burnt skin from unauthorized chemical peels, fungal infections aggravated by steroid abuse, and worsened pigmentation from improper therapies,” she said. “Many victims were enticed by polished social media marketing, false promises, and the absence of medical accountability.”
The issue extends even into licensed professions, with some dental practitioners offering aesthetic medical procedures beyond their legal scope—actions currently under judicial scrutiny but still widely practiced.
Addressing the backlash she received online, Dr. Damisetty emphasized that her concerns are rooted solely in public safety, not professional rivalry. “Patients have the right to safe, evidence-based care,” she stated, clarifying that her comments about dentists were misconstrued.
Dermatologists urge the public to educate themselves on recognizing legitimate medical qualifications and to seek treatments only from certified professionals. “The damage may not be immediately visible, but recurrent infections, scarring, and missed diagnoses ultimately harm patients the most,” Dr. Mella warned.
For those managing hair and skin concerns, experts recommend following proper hair care tips and hair health advice—consulting qualified dermatologists for tailored guidance and evidence-based hair care steps to ensure safe and effective results.
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