Health ministry sets binding standards for cosmetology clinics

The Story in Brief

The Union health ministry has issued India’s first binding standards for cosmetology clinics, restricting medical procedures to registered dermatologists and plastic surgeons. The rules require public disclosure of qualifications, informed consent, patient confidentiality, biomedical waste compliance and minimum support staff. State and district registering authorities will enforce them under the Clinical Establishments Act, with State Medical Councils and pollution control boards involved.

The Mint reports that the $2.1 billion sector has faced complaints over unqualified operators, weak infection control and poor emergency facilities. Procedures such as Botox, fillers and chemical peels are classified as Level 1, while ablative lasers and vitiligo surgeries require a restricted operating theatre. Non-compliant clinics can face fines, cancellation of registration and closure. Industry estimates cited by Mint put the number of clinics and related centres above 40,000, with 50% to 60% lacking qualified full-time specialists on site.