Why did Thailand issue a health alert for Indian travellers?
Thailand has lowered its immigration barriers by introducing a Digital Arrival Card for all foreign nationals who wish to visit the country. The online form needs to be filled out for travellers arriving by air, land or sea. The initiative is aimed at improving the surveillance of travellers during the fight against human trafficking and illegal activities in the region.Travellers can access and fill in the Digital Arrival Card on the Thai Immigration Bureau's official website well before travelling to the country. Failure to fill out the form will result in entry denial or delay.INDIAN TRAVELLERS TRAVEL ADVISORYIn line with recent health developments, it is recommended that Indian nationals travel to Thailand:They should avoid consuming raw as well as undercooked meat (and stay clear of northeast Thailand)Should steer clear of casual contact with livestock and animal-produced productsThey should monitor their health for any signs like lesions on the skin emerging or swollen lymph nodes and seek medical attention if requisite.Make sure that the Digital Arrival Card has been filled in before setting off to Thailand.
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News18
30 minutes ago
- News18
Why Gen Z In India Is Talking About Mental Health Like Never Before
Last Updated: India's youth are redefining success by prioritising mental wellness. From resilience to emotional intelligence, here's why mental health is becoming the ultimate life skill. India is home to the world's largest youth population, with over 250 million people aged 15 to 24. While this demographic represents immense potential, it also faces mounting challenges, such as academic pressure, constant digital connectivity, evolving family dynamics, and the relentless flood of information. In such an environment, mental wellness is no longer just a health concern; it's a fundamental life skill. According to national data, 7.3% of Indian adolescents suffer from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Many cases, however, go unreported due to stigma and lack of access to care. India also has one of the world's highest suicide rates, with the World Health Organisation estimating mental health conditions will cost the country over USD 1 trillion between 2012 and 2030. 'Mental wellness is not a luxury but a necessity, especially for today's youth. While children are prepared for exams and professional life, they are seldom trained to handle failure, rejection, or self-doubt. This emotional gap is now reflected in rising cases of anxiety, depression, and isolation among adolescents," says Dr. Kriti Anand, Consultant – Psychiatry, Paras Health, Panchkula. Beyond Academic Success Mental wellness underpins every aspect of growth – from academic performance and creativity to communication and conflict resolution. A resilient mindset helps young people navigate change, build strong relationships, and face uncertainty with confidence. Neglecting mental health, on the other hand, can derail education, trigger isolation, and limit future opportunities. As Dr. Anand points out, 'Mental wellness is more than the absence of illness; it's about resilience, self-awareness, and the ability to regulate emotions and relationships. Emotional intelligence often predicts long-term success more reliably than IQ." Creating Safe Spaces While schools are critical in creating awareness, the responsibility must extend beyond classrooms. Parents, peers, and mentors play an equally vital role in supporting young people. 'The youth today face unique psychological challenges – fast-paced, hyper-connected, and often overwhelming," notes Mr. Praveen Singh, CEO, AASOKA. 'The more we talk about emotional resilience openly, the more we normalise seeking support and prioritising well-being." Mr. Aarul Malaviya, Founder of Zamit, echoes this sentiment: 'What young people truly need right now is the freedom to express themselves without worrying about judgment. Mental wellness isn't just about having support; it's what gives young individuals the inner resilience they need to grow into their best possible selves." Investing in the Future For lasting change, mental health must be treated with the same importance as physical health and intellectual growth. This means teaching youth to recognise stress, manage emotions, support peers, and seek professional help when necessary. An emotionally strong generation will lead with empathy, collaborate effectively, and drive sustainable progress. First Published: August 17, 2025, 12:45 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
33 minutes ago
- Time of India
Your skin deserves more than a label: What 'Dermatologically Tested' actually means
The Indian personal care industry is booming, raising consumer safety concerns. "Dermatologically tested" labels aim to reassure, but testing limitations and the importance of Indian skin-specific testing are crucial. Consumers and regulators must demand rigorous testing for safer, trustworthy products, ensuring transparency and respect for diverse skin needs. The Indian personal care and cosmetics industry is growing at an unprecedented pace. Social media, influencer marketing, and e-commerce have democratised access to consumers, creating a vibrant and competitive market hungry for innovative solutions that promise visible results. This boom has fuelled the launch of countless new brands and products, many targeting niche concerns that would once have been overlooked. From customised skincare for urban pollution to formulations for specific skin tones or climates, the range is broader than ever before. However, as hundreds of new formulations enter the market each year, one consumer concern remains constant: safety . When a product is going on your face or body, you expect it to enhance your appearance, not risk rashes, irritation, or permanent damage. This expectation is reasonable, but it also presents a challenge for brands, especially newer ones trying to establish trust. This is where the claim 'dermatologically tested' comes in. When placed on a label, it reassures consumers that the product is unlikely to cause harm or irritation, and gives brands a way to inspire confidence in first-time buyers. It addresses one of the biggest psychological barriers for a consumer trying a new cosmetic product: the fear of an adverse skin reaction. What It Actually Means During product development, formulators select ingredients that are legally permitted and widely considered safe by regulatory authorities. However, safety on paper does not automatically mean safety in combination. When multiple active ingredients are blended such as retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamins, or peptides, their interactions can occasionally trigger skin reactions. Historically, safety testing for such combinations was conducted on animals, typically rabbits or mice, by applying the product to their skin and observing reactions. These methods are no longer acceptable in many parts of the world, including India, where animal testing for cosmetics is banned. The industry has since moved towards human testing under controlled conditions, the process now referred to as 'dermatologically tested. ' In practice, this involves applying a small amount of the product to the skin of human volunteers, often on the forearm or back, using specially designed adhesive patches. This method known as a patch test is conducted on a small group of participants, usually around 24 people. It follows internationally recognised ISO standards and guidelines from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). There are two common types of patch tests: PIBT (Primary Irritation Patch Test): Determines whether a product causes immediate irritation. HRIPT (Human Repeat Insult Patch Test): A more extensive method used to support claims that a product is suitable for sensitive skin, involving repeated application over a period to detect delayed or cumulative reactions. If the product shows no significant irritation in these tests, the brand is permitted to state that it is dermatologically tested. Beyond Safety, Testing for Efficacy Some brands choose to go further by not only checking safety but also evaluating whether the product delivers on its performance claims. For example, an anti-ageing cream might advertise that it reduces fine lines within 15 days. To validate this, a controlled study is conducted: volunteers apply the product over a set period, and a dermatologist assesses changes using both visual examination and sometimes imaging technology. These studies, often referred to as 'clinical trials' in the cosmetic context, are less intensive than pharmaceutical drug trials but still follow structured protocols. The resulting data allows the brand to claim the product is 'dermatologically tested and proven' for a specific outcome, adding an extra layer of credibility. The Limitations It is important to recognise that 'dermatologically tested' does not guarantee absolute safety for every individual. Patch testing is conducted on a relatively small sample size, and human skin varies widely in sensitivity. People with specific allergies, for example, to peanut oil, certain essential oils, or preservatives, could still react negatively to a product even if it passed testing. Moreover, 'dermatologically tested' is a safety assurance, not a measure of product quality or effectiveness. A product can be tested and safe yet deliver minimal visible results. Consumers should view the label as an indicator of reduced risk, not a promise of transformation. Why Indian Skin Testing Matters One often-overlooked issue is that many products sold in India are not actually tested on Indian skin types. Skin physiology and sensitivity vary significantly between ethnicities. Factors like melanin content, oil production, and environmental exposure influence how skin reacts to certain ingredients. A cream proven safe for Caucasian skin in a European test group may not behave identically on Indian skin. It might cause hyperpigmentation, increased sensitivity, or delayed irritation. This makes localised testing crucial. Products intended for the Indian market should be tested on Indian volunteers to ensure safety and suitability for local skin concerns. This is especially important for products containing high-strength actives, which are increasingly popular in India due to global skincare trends. Without local testing, even well-intentioned formulations can trigger widespread adverse reactions. The Consumer's Role in Raising Standards Unfortunately, a significant number of smaller and even mid-sized brands skip proper dermatological testing, especially when launching quickly to capitalise on trends. This is risky. Without testing, there is no scientific assurance that a formulation will be safe for the general public. Consumers can help raise industry standards by checking for credible dermatological testing claims and asking brands whether their testing was conducted on Indian skin. Regulatory authorities can also tighten requirements to ensure such testing becomes a mandatory step before market release. You've seen the ads. Glowy skin. Smoother joints. Stronger hair. And one magic word: Collagen. It's everywhere from your favorite influencer's smoothie to your mom's night cream. But as popular as collagen has become, the truth is, not every supplement or cream is created equal. Before you invest in your next tub of collagen peptides or slather on a collagen-rich moisturizer, here are ten important things to keep in mind. These aren't just marketing claims this is what actually matters. Dermatological testing should be seen as a basic, non-negotiable safeguard. For brands, it's an investment in credibility and consumer trust. For consumers, it's a first line of defence against avoidable skin damage. In a fast-moving personal care industry where innovation often outruns regulation, 'dermatologically tested' is not just marketing jargon. When done properly and to recognised standards, it is a meaningful assurance that a product has undergone human safety testing and is unlikely to cause irritation for most users. However, the label is not a guarantee of universal safety, nor does it replace the need for consumers to be aware of their own skin sensitivities. The best practice for both brands and consumers is clear: ensure products are tested under the supervision of qualified dermatologists, using local volunteers, and communicate results transparently. Only then can 'dermatologically tested' truly mean what consumers hope it does a scientifically backed promise of safety, trust, and respect for the skin it is meant to care for. Inputs by Dr. Saurabh Arora, Managing Director, Auriga Research
News18
44 minutes ago
- News18
Botox At 20? Why Indian Millennials Are Now Opting For 'Preventive Aesthetics'
Botox at 20 is not a rule; it's an option. For some millennials with strong dynamic lines, early micro-dosing by a board-certified dermatologist can be reasonable In cities across India, aesthetic clinics are reporting a growing number of clients in their early 20s and 30s asking for 'baby Botox', micro-doses of botulinum toxin to soften expression lines before they turn into static wrinkles, and vice versa. The story is about more than just celebrity culture and social media; it's also about access. India recorded a landmark 1.29 million procedures in 2024, and regulatory bodies are now being called upon to design mechanisms for oversight (and penalize infractions) as demand for injectables like neuromodulators and fillers continues to surge. Market research firms project rapid growth in botulinum toxin sales until at least 2030, further highlighting how mainstream these procedures are becoming. Dr. Ashok B. C., HOD, Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery & Chief of Medical Services, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, shares all you need to know: What exactly is 'preventive" Botox? Rather than waiting for deep lines to form, small, strategically placed doses relax overactive muscles (glabella, crow's feet, forehead) to slow the mechanical folding that drives wrinkle formation. A 2025 clinical review argues that early, judicious use can be a valid tool within broader aesthetic plans emphasizing conservative dosing, correct anatomical targeting, and long intervals to minimize risks. This aligns with the 'baby Botox" ethos, which aims for movement moderation rather than a 'frozen" look. Worldwide, neuromodulators remain the most performed minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons' 2024 statistics recorded nearly 9.88 million neuromodulator injections (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, Daxxify), a 4% increase over 2023—showing sustained mainstream acceptance. Separate tallies from ISAPS also ranked botulinum toxin as the number one non-surgical procedure globally, with data suggesting a shift toward maintenance-style interventions across age groups. How does this trend translate to Indian skin and aging patterns? Indian and Asia-Pacific expert consensus reports indicate that cosmetic wrinkling tends to appear later in many Indians compared to lighter phototypes. Historically, hyaluronic acid fillers have been more popular in the 20–30 age group, while combinations of toxins and fillers are increasingly used after 30. This distinction matters: in darker phototypes, who generally have a lower baseline wrinkle burden, starting neuromodulators very early should be a personalized choice based on anatomy, muscle activity, photoaging history, and expectations rather than a standard milestone at 20. When conducted by trained clinicians, safety is generally favorable. Many meta-analyses and controlled trials note that adverse events are usually mild and transient (e.g., bruising, headache, eyelid heaviness), with overall complication rates estimated in the mid-teens percentage. Most cosmetic datasets are dominated by minor, self-resolving issues. A more strategic concern is immunogenicity (neutralizing antibodies) with overly frequent or high-protein-load formulations; while rare at aesthetic doses, repetitive short-interval injections can increase risk and reduce efficacy over time. Reputable clinics therefore discourage 'top-ups" too soon and adhere to product-specific minimal intervals. India's rapid uptake raises governance questions. Leading cosmetology bodies stress robust informed consent, photography, and clear counseling on longevity and repeat treatments. Meanwhile, news reports warn of rising complications from unregulated providers—reinforcing the importance of checking a clinician's credentials and ensuring proper storage and dilution protocols. In short: the 'where" and 'who" matter as much as the 'what." Why are millennials leaning toward preventive instead of corrective? Economically, small, spaced-out doses can delay (though not erase) the need for more aggressive interventions later. Culturally, there's a move toward 'maintenance aesthetics" think sunscreens, antioxidants, and occasional neuromodulators rather than boom-and-bust makeovers. The most credible approach remains conservative: start only if dynamic lines are visible at rest or if certain muscles are genetically strong; use low, anatomically precise doses; maintain 3–4-month (or longer) intervals; and pair injections with high-SPF sun protection and lifestyle changes that address the real drivers of premature aging (UV, pollution, smoking, poor sleep). Another frequent comparison in clinics is 'preventive Botox" versus early fillers. They are complementary, not substitutes. Neuromodulators reduce muscle-driven creasing; fillers address volume and contour. In younger Indian patients with good dermal quality, toxins may be used sparingly (if at all), while the focus remains on skin health, pigment control, and photo-protection. Combination treatment plans usually emerge later, when soft-tissue deflation and mixed line types appear patterns well-documented in Indian consensus data. 'Botox at 20" is not a rule; it's an option. For some millennials with strong dynamic lines, early micro-dosing by a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon can be reasonable. For many others, evidence-based skincare and disciplined sun behavior may deliver a better return until anatomy and lifestyle indicate otherwise. As demand accelerates in India, patients should choose qualified providers, ask about dilution, units, intervals, and consent, and treat neuromodulators as part of a long-term skin strategy not a quick fix. view comments First Published: August 17, 2025, 12:29 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
