Avoid Unprofessional skin Clinics: Prevent More Severe complications
By Michael Canllar
With the increasing number of ‘skin and beauty clinics’ appearing in urban centres, professional Dermatologists are warning the public against seeking treatment for skin defects and diseases from these establishments, beyond basic nail, hair, facial, and scrub treatments typically within the scope of cosmetologists and stylists.
Consultant dermatologist Dr. Ronald Katureebe, a member of the interim committee of the Uganda Dermatologists Association, advises the public: “Always ask for the practicing certificate of the Dermatologist (Doctor) from the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council plus the medical license of the skin clinic you go to before you seek any medical skin treatment.”
This precaution, he adds, will help avoid further complications, which are becoming increasingly common among individuals treated by non-Professional skin Doctors (Dermatologists).
Common Skin Conditions that are Misdiagnosed by non Professional Dermatologists
dr. Katureebe emphasizes that swellings on the skin should be immediately evaluated by a Dermatologist, as they could be early signs of skin cancer.
“Tampering with them may lead to worsening of the situation as use of chemicals to try and remove them can spread the problem further,” he warns. Intervention on swellings, notably those near major nerves or blood vessels, by non-Professionals can lead to damage, morbidity, and even death.
Psoriasis
Often mistaken for a fungal infection due to similar appearances,incorrect treatment with antifungals – sometimes for months beyond the recommended 14 days – can result in Liver Toxicity,a costly and inconvenient complication to treat.
Skin Cancer and Discoloration
Non-Professional skin clinics often miss early signs of skin cancer presenting as discoloration, delaying crucial treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are known to be life-saving.Untreated skin moles can also develop into skin cancer.
Eczema
Frequently misdiagnosed as a skin infection,Eczema requires a different approach. Incorrectly prescribed antibiotics can worsen the condition.
“to solve this confusion, visiting a qualified Dermatologist immediately one notices any unusual changes to their skin for proper diagnosis and treatment is the way to go,” Dr. Katureebe says. A Professional Dermatologist can identify the allergic nature of Eczema and prescribe appropriate medication, along with guidance on avoiding triggers.
Cosmetic Skin Surgeries (liposuction and Botox)
Patients often present with damage to their eyes, visual loss, facial wrinkles, and loss of skin tissues due to improperly performed cosmetic procedures like Fillers and injections for liposuction (fat removal) and Botox.
“Severe reactions to anesthesia, which becomes an emergency case that requires a proper hospital to manage, is a complication beyond the scope of cosmetologists. In worst cases,when it happens in an unprofessional skin clinic,death may happen to the patient,” Dr. Katureebe concludes.
The Dangers of Misguided Skincare and Harmful Lightening Creams
Improper skincare advice and the use of perilous ingredients in skin-lightening creams pose significant health risks, perhaps leading to severe side effects and long-term complications. Dermatologists are increasingly concerned about individuals receiving skincare recommendations without proper consideration of their individual skin type and needs, and the widespread use of unregulated, harmful products.
The Risks of Untrained Advice
A key issue is the lack of personalized skincare assessment. Aesthetic professionals who don’t fully understand a client’s skin type can inadvertently recommend products that cause adverse reactions. Such as, recommending products formulated for sensitive skin to someone with normal skin can trigger unexpected irritation and even require medical intervention, including injections and oral medications.
The Perils of Illegal and Harmful Ingredients
A particularly alarming trend is the use of locally mixed lightening creams containing potent and dangerous chemicals like steroids, mercury, and hydroquinone. While hydroquinone can be used under strict medical supervision to treat hyperpigmentation, prolonged use can lead to permanent skin discoloration and ochronosis.according to the American Academy of Dermatology,hydroquinone should be used cautiously and for limited periods. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/cosmetic-procedures/hydroquinone
Similarly, steroids, while effective for short-term inflammation reduction (typically 5-14 days maximum), can cause the skin to become reliant on the medication. stopping steroid use abruptly can result in rebound darkening and a cycle of continuous request, leading to further complications. The National Eczema Association highlights the dangers of topical steroid addiction. https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/topical-steroids/topical-steroid-withdrawal/
The long-term consequences of continuous use (over six months) of products containing these chemicals are severe. They include:
Skin Thinning: Weakening of the skin’s structure.
Stretch Marks: Damage to the skin’s elasticity.
systemic Health Issues: Absorption of chemicals into the bloodstream can contribute to high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and diabetes.
Mercury poisoning: Mercury, which is never recommended for medical use due to its toxicity, damages the kidneys and nervous system. The World Health Association details the dangers of mercury exposure. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mercury-and-health
Seeking Safe and Effective Skincare
It is crucial to consult with a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional for personalized skincare advice and treatment. Self-treating with unregulated products can have devastating consequences.
Contact Details:
Michael Kanaabi: michaelkanaabi@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +256726235461
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