Should India Consider Banning Anti-Ageing Treatments?

Following the sudden and untimely demise of actress Shefali Jariwala, experts have expressed serious concerns about the growing use of anti-ageing treatments and cosmetic procedures.

Medical professionals said on Saturday that while such treatments have seen a sharp rise in popularity, most of them remain largely unregulated.

This lack of oversight, they warn, can lead to serious health complications and even life-threatening consequences.

Experts urged the public to exercise caution and consult certified professionals before undergoing any cosmetic or anti-ageing interventions.

Shefali Jariwala, known for her iconic music video ‘Kanta Laga’, passed away in Mumbai on June 27 at the age of 42.

Speaking to IANS, Former AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria said, “Anti-ageing medicine is becoming very popular, but it’s mostly unregulated. Many of these products are sold without proper scientific studies to prove they work. Some may even have harmful side effects, especially if taken for long periods.”

Anti-ageing is not a scientific term

Convener, Research Cell, Kerala State IMA, Rajeev Jayadevan added, “Anti-ageing is not a scientific term. Such products do not reverse or stop natural ageing. Skin whitening is possible with certain medications, but that is not the same as anti-ageing.”

Adding more, Jayadevan told IANS, “When a medication is given as an IV injection, it bypasses the natural protection offered by gut absorption and liver metabolism. Thus, the drug may reach very high concentrations in blood and tissues.”

He further added, “IV medications must be carefully regulated and contamination avoided at all costs.”

Police reports say Shefali Jariwala used skin whitening and anti-ageing treatments for nearly eight years. These mainly included glutathione and Vitamin C.

Reports indicate that she continued these treatments without ongoing medical supervision after her initial consultation.

The expert cited reports from Australia and the Philippines. IV glutathione vials contained toxins and caused serious side effects.

India is currently witnessing a sharp surge in demand for cosmetic enhancements.

As per the latest ISAPS Global Survey, India ranks among the top 10 countries worldwide for aesthetic and cosmetic procedures, following nations like the US, Brazil, and Japan.

Dr Randeep Guleria said,“There is definitely a need to regulate such medicines. If there’s no proper evidence about their safety or usefulness, and they are found to be harmful, then yes they should be banned. The same applies to other medicines, like muscle-building drugs that are often misused.”

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