Medical truth needs to expose cosmetic fiction
The fallout is becoming apparent as dermatologists report an increasing number of cases of skin damage, infections, vitamin overdose, hormonal and reproductive complications, and a disturbing rise in mental health issues linked to the misuse of steroid creams. The medical fraternity attributes this to the influence of social media and inadequate medical monitoring and prescription practices. Consumers fail to realise that these quick fixes, while enhancing beauty, have multiple side effects. Melanotan nasal sprays often lead to melanoma, and self-injecting Botox filler kits can cause infections and even blindness. It is high time that public discourse caught up with medical reality. Regulation of risky products and their marketing is necessary. Beauty norms should be challenged in visual and broadcast messaging and societal trends. Brands have to be accountable for the safety of their products as well as the narratives they create. Ethical guidelines must be drawn up for influencers to follow.
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Indian Express
5 hours ago
- Indian Express
Uorfi Javed reveals her armpits don't smell: ‘Woh sweat rok deta hai'
Fashion influencer and actor Uorfi Javed recently revealed that her armpits don't smell owing to a cosmetic tweak. 'My armpits don't smell. I have Botox in my armpits, so woh sweat rok deta hai (Botox takes care of the sweat). So, I can smell my armpits,' Uorfi told Mashable India. This statement left many people curious — and a little surprised. While Botox is best known for smoothing wrinkles, does it also have a well-established medical use for treating excessive underarm sweating, known as axillary hyperhidrosis? What is armpit Botox? Botox is a purified protein derived from Clostridium botulinum. Dr Malhotra elaborated that when injected in tiny doses into the underarm area, it temporarily blocks the nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands. The result? Dramatically reduced perspiration for several months. How it works: Sweat glands are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. Botox interrupts the signals from these nerves. 'Without these signals, the sweat glands stay inactive in that area,' said Dr Malhotra. Why do people opt for it? For some, underarm sweating is a severe and embarrassing issue that antiperspirants or home remedies cannot control, said Dr Malhotra. 'People who sweat excessively often face discomfort, staining of clothes, and social awkwardness. Botox offers a quick, effective, and minimally invasive solution,' said Dr Malhotra. Even for people without diagnosed hyperhidrosis, Botox can be used for lifestyle and cosmetic reasons — such as wanting to stay fresh during public appearances, long events, or in the case of celebrities, on stage and under hot lights, shared Dr Malhotra. Does it stop odour? According to Dr Malhotra, sweat itself is odourless. 'The smell occurs when bacteria on the skin break down the proteins and fatty acids in sweat. By reducing sweat production, Botox indirectly reduces odour because there is less moisture for bacteria to thrive in,' described Dr Malhotra. 'It doesn't change your body chemistry, but it changes the environment where odour-causing bacteria multiply,' said Dr Malhotra. How does it work? Duration: 20–30 minutes Pain level: Minimal, with numbing cream if needed Recovery: You can return to normal activities immediately Effect duration: Typically 4–6 months, after which repeat sessions may be needed Possible side effects Most people tolerate the treatment well, but minor side effects can include: *Temporary pain or swelling at the injection site *Bruising *Mild muscle weakness in the treated area *Dr Malhotra urged that when done by a trained medical professional, the risk of serious side effects is extremely low. 'The key is precision in injection technique,' said Dr Malhotra. Cost factor Botox for underarms is more expensive than over-the-counter deodorants or antiperspirants, but for those who struggle with excessive sweating or have high-profile lifestyles, the benefits often outweigh the costs, noted Dr Malhotra. 'Armpit Botox is not just a beauty fad — it's a medically approved treatment that can significantly improve quality of life for people with sweating issues. For others, it's a confidence-boosting choice. The important thing is to have it done safely and only by an experienced practitioner,' said Dr Malhotra. Bonus: Dig deeper into the skin Now that you have read all about armpit botox, you should also know more about using cosmetics on babies and children, which experts say could disrupt hormones, trigger allergies, and why a dermatologist doesn't recommend applying imli or tamarind mask on the face for pigmentation. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
New Indian Express
30-07-2025
- New Indian Express
Surrogacy vs mental health
From Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan (AbRam) to Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao (Azad), Tusshar Kapoor (Laksshya), and Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas (Malti Marie), several celebrities have turned to surrogacy to build their families. As public awareness grows and stigma fades, surrogacy has become a more accepted reproductive option, especially in cases where medical complications prevent women from carrying a pregnancy themselves. However, a new study has added an important dimension to this evolving narrative. Published in JAMA Network Open, the landmark research by McGill University and the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES), Canada, reveals that surrogacy may carry a higher risk of mental health challenges for gestational carriers — commonly known as surrogates. Study at a glance The study analysed an extensive dataset of 7,67,406 pregnancies in Ontario, Canada, between 2012 and 2021. It found that women who carry a pregnancy for others are significantly more likely to develop new-onset mental health conditions during or after pregnancy compared to women who conceive either naturally or via IVF. 'Pregnancy is not just a biological process, it's deeply emotional,' says Dr Sumina Reddy, fertility consultant and director at Fertilica IVF & Women Care, Hyderabad. 'For surrogates, the journey comes with added psychological layers. Even if there is no genetic link to the baby, they still undergo all the hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that pregnancy brings,' she adds. Diagnosed conditions ranged from mood and anxiety disorders to psychosis, substance use, and self-harm. Alarmingly, many diagnoses were made in emergency or inpatient settings, pointing to delayed support and crisis-level interventions. 'Surrogates face a higher likelihood of developing mental health issues compared to women who carry their own children,' notes Dr Sarada Vani N, senior consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and high-risk pregnancy specialist at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad. 'Mood and anxiety disorders were most common, and the median time from conception to diagnosis was around two and a half years. This shows how some issues may emerge long after the pregnancy ends,' she notes. The doctor adds that surrogates who previously experienced mental health issues were particularly vulnerable. Even when compared to women who conceived without assistance but no longer lived with their child a year after birth, surrogates showed elevated risks, hinting at a grief-like experience akin to that seen in adoption or foster care.
New Indian Express
20-07-2025
- New Indian Express
Medical truth needs to expose cosmetic fiction
At the heart of this trend is a generation growing up on internet advice and reel-life illusions, as well as assured beauty shortcuts to social acceptance and success. However, beneath the promises lies a menacing truth. A recent study revealed that formaldehyde, commonly used in embalming and industrial manufacturing, is also heavily used in cosmetics, face creams, and body lotions for darker skin. Darker-skinned consumers are disproportionately exposed to these toxins. Societal pressures make them consume more beauty products that may contain hazardous chemicals, such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. At least 30 percent of users have reported adverse reactions. The film industry plays its own role, celebrating the likes of Shah Rukh Khan and Tom Cruise for their youthfulness and setting unattainable vanity goals. The fallout is becoming apparent as dermatologists report an increasing number of cases of skin damage, infections, vitamin overdose, hormonal and reproductive complications, and a disturbing rise in mental health issues linked to the misuse of steroid creams. The medical fraternity attributes this to the influence of social media and inadequate medical monitoring and prescription practices. Consumers fail to realise that these quick fixes, while enhancing beauty, have multiple side effects. Melanotan nasal sprays often lead to melanoma, and self-injecting Botox filler kits can cause infections and even blindness. It is high time that public discourse caught up with medical reality. Regulation of risky products and their marketing is necessary. Beauty norms should be challenged in visual and broadcast messaging and societal trends. Brands have to be accountable for the safety of their products as well as the narratives they create. Ethical guidelines must be drawn up for influencers to follow.
