Archive · 17 Nov 2025
Doctors Warn Against Unqualified Social Media Skincare Advice, Steroid Dangers
Some doctors are worried that many people on social media are giving bad advice about skin creams.
They say you should only listen to real doctors, not just anyone who posts online.
Many creams, especially those with steroids, can make your skin sick if you use them for too long or stop them suddenly.
Sometimes, stopping strong steroid creams too fast can make people very ill, even causing a coma.
These creams can also make your skin dependent on them, leading to other problems like redness and pimples.
Doctors advise everyone to be careful about what they put on their skin and to always check the ingredients and ask a real doctor if they are unsure.
Keeping your skin routine simple is best.
Doctors caution against following unqualified skincare advice on social media.
Many unverified online sources promote products with hidden ingredients like steroids, mercury, and retinoids.
Prolonged use of steroid creams can lead to skin addiction, fragility, and changes in skin appearance.
Sudden withdrawal from strong steroid use can potentially lead to coma or significant psychological disturbances.
Experts advise consulting qualified dermatologists and practicing simple, safe skincare routines.
- Who
- Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh (pediatrician) and Dr. Vishalakshi Viswanath (dermatologist)
- What
- Cautioning the public against following unqualified skincare advice on social media and the dangers of using topical steroid creams without prescription, including potential for severe withdrawal symptoms.
- When
- Recently (implied by the doctors attending a conference and speaking on the issue)
- Where
- India (implied by reference to qualified dermatologists in the country)
- Why
- To prevent harm to individuals due to misinformation and improper use of skincare products, particularly those containing steroids, mercury, and retinoids.
Doctors' Perspective
Social Media Influencers
Qualification
Doctors' Perspective
Only follow qualified dermatologists
Social Media Influencers
Follow influencers with large followings
Product Information
Doctors' Perspective
Check product labels and ingredients
Social Media Influencers
Trust product claims and reviews
Long-term Use
Doctors' Perspective
Avoid long-term use of steroid creams
Social Media Influencers
Promote long-term use for desired results
- Qualified Dermatologists in India
- 18,000
- Unqualified 'Dermatologists' on Social Media
- 2 Million
- Potential Harmful Ingredients
- Mercury, Retinoids, Steroids
- Risks of Prolonged Steroid Use
- Skin addiction, fragility, sensitivity, increased facial hair, skin color changes
- Severe Withdrawal Symptom (Systemic Steroids)
- Coma
- Withdrawal Symptoms (Topical Steroids)
- Psychological disturbances, emotional fluctuations, sleep disturbances