Dermatologists Call for Regulation of Unauthorised Aesthetic Treatments and Hair Transplants

Quick Summary

• The Karnataka branch of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL KN) has requested Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil to introduce regulations against unregulated aesthetic dermatology and hair transplant procedures.
• concerns were raised regarding a 2022 public notice by the Dental Council of India (DCI), allegedly misinterpreted by some dental professionals as permission to perform invasive skin treatments without formal qualifications in dermatology or surgery.
• A National Medical Commission (NMC) circular from September 2022 stipulates that only Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPs) with postgraduate qualifications in dermatology or plastic surgery are authorized for such procedures.
• Over 1,000 unqualified individuals are reportedly operating illegally in Karnataka under “Dental, Skin and Hair” clinics, according to IADVL state representatives.
• Members warned about patient safety risks due to this trend, linking it to five deaths and numerous cases of disfigurement and psychological trauma nationwide.
• The association urged the government for immediate intervention and clarified regulations.

Source Link: Published – July 24, 2025 09:46 pm IST

Indian Opinion Analysis

the increasing number of unqualified practitioners conducting aesthetic medical procedures highlights critical gaps in regulation enforcement across India. While existing guidelines from bodies like the National Medical Commission affirm only specialized practitioners should perform these treatments, misuse or misinterpretation of notices-such as that from the Dental Council-reveals systemic weaknesses.

If left unchecked, this issue could compromise patient safety on a large scale while undermining trust in healthcare systems. immediate regulatory steps coupled with public educational campaigns might potentially be essential not only for safeguarding clinical standards but also for addressing deeper issues related to professional scope creep between overlapping medical fields. Policymakers have an opportunity here to reinforce IndiaS healthcare governance structure proactively.

Source Link: published – July 24, 2025 09:46 pm IST