Oncologist reveals if skin enhancement treatments like Botox, fillers, chemical peels make you more vulnerable to cancer
Weigh the benefits and risks
Dr Parikh said, 'With the fast-paced life today, the quest for attaining unblemished skin has given a boost to skin enhancement treatments such as chemical peel, laser resurfacing, injectable fillers, and light treatments. Skin enhancement treatments are different in nature, degree, and technology. Some are cosmetic acids, while others alter deeper skin layers and affect cellular function. The issue of concern, as far as the risk of cancer is concerned, is primarily due to the way these treatments affect skin cells, ultraviolet exposure, and chronic inflammation.'
Be wary of UVA and UVB radiation
According to her, 'one danger of cancer is from skin therapy using UV, or tanning beds': 'They emit UVA and UVB radiation, which are both carcinogens. Cumulative use damages DNA in skin cells, resulting in mutations that can cause skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the more dangerous melanoma.'
Further highlighting the importance of caution with certain skin treatments, Dr Parikh warned against uncontrolled or excessive treatments that can cause harm, including radiation exposure or chemical reactions. According to her, certain chemicals, like phenol, have raised concerns due to potential carcinogenic effects in animal studies.
Microneedling has become a celebrity go-to for good skin thanks to a long list of potential benefits, such as reduced acne scars and signs of ageing. (Representative picture: Pexels)
What you should know before opting for chemical peels
Dr Parikh said, 'New skin treatments using controlled light therapies such as IPL and laser procedures are available in medicine, but the problem arises when they are done inappropriately, in excess, or by untrained personnel. Uncontrolled treatments can subject the skin to too much, and even harmful, radiation. Chemical peels involve the application of acid solutions to exfoliate the skin. They are safe when properly performed under medical supervision. There are still concerns regarding some chemicals like phenol, used in deeper peels, which in animal studies have been shown to cause carcinogenic reactions.'
Are Botox, microneedling and fillers safe?
Dr Parikh added that treatments like Botox should be performed by trained professionals in a medical setting: 'Botox and dermal fillers relax wrinkles and provide facial contours. They are safe when administered by skilled practitioners and are FDA-approved, but some have been concerned that chronic inflammation or immune reactions will occur, which in extreme cases can provide a biological context for abnormal cell growth.'
Stressing how you should prioritise safety over aesthetics and desires, she shared that repetitive trauma from treatments like microneedling, laser, or chemical peels may lead to chronic inflammation, potentially linked to cancer. However, by being informed and taking necessary precautions, you can minimise risks associated with skin treatments.
'Repetition of trauma to the skin by microneedling, laser, or chemical peels may lead to chronic inflammation. Scientific literature shows that chronic inflammation plays a pathogenic role in cancers. Always visit trained dermatologists or aesthetic physicians, never repeat or refer yourself, cover your skin against sun exposure after the treatment, and never compromise on safety for vanity,' Dr Parikh said.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
12 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Dermatologists bust common myths around anti-ageing treatments and explain what really works: ‘Balance is key'
From serums that promise to erase wrinkles overnight to myths about botox "freezing" your face, anti-ageing advice is everywhere, but not all of it is accurate. To clear the confusion, HT Lifestyle spoke to dermatologists who are setting the record straight on what really works, what's just hype, and which treatments truly help your skin age gracefully. (Also read: Dermatologist explains how much hair fall is normal and when you should actually worry: '100–200 strands a day is fine' ) Topical treatments like retinoids and sunscreen can safely slow ageing when used correctly. Are anti-ageing treatments harmful or helpful "People often fear that anti-ageing treatments are unnatural or harmful. But when done right and under expert care, they can actually support skin health. Wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss are natural with age. Treatments like Botox, fillers, or HIFU work to improve texture, stimulate collagen, and restore what's been lost, not change your face," says Dr Madhurya Gogineni, Dermatologist at Zennara Clinics, Hyderabad. Dermatologists emphasise that the responsible use of anti-ageing treatments can maintain skin health. She adds, "The myth that these treatments damage your skin long-term isn't true when they're medically guided. In fact, procedures like chemical peels or microneedling boost the skin's natural repair process. "What's harmful is overdoing it, chasing perfection, or trusting unqualified hands. Always consult a certified dermatologist who understands your skin's needs. The goal isn't to erase age, but to age gracefully and confidently. Let's stop fearing the science behind skincare and start using it wisely," says Dr Madhurya. What's the real risk? Bringing her expertise to the same Dr. Prachi B. Bodkhe, Dermatologist at Envi Aesthetics MBBS, MD Dermatology shared, 'In my opinion, anti-ageing treatments, when chosen carefully and used responsibly, are helpful tools in maintaining skin health and confidence. The real harm comes from misinformation, unrealistic expectations, and neglecting the basics of skincare.' Topical treatments like retinoids and Botox can effectively slow aging when used properly.(Shutterstock) "Topical treatments like retinoids, antioxidants, peptides and sunscreen are scientifically proven to slow signs of ageing and are generally safe for most people when used correctly. Minimally invasive procedures like Botulinum toxin, fillers, and IV Antioxidants therapy can also be beneficial, without significant long-term risks when performed by qualified professionals," explains Dr. Prachi. "However, problems arise when treatments are overused, poorly administered, or marketed with unrealistic promises. Overuse of injectables can lead to an unnatural appearance, and aggressive procedures without proper aftercare can do more harm. The key is balance, education, and professional guidance," she concludes. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
13 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Eating right this monsoon: Nutritionist lists 8 diet tips to boost immunity and stay healthy
The heightened humidity and risk of water contamination during the monsoon season significantly increase the chances of infections and water-borne illnesses. That's why it's crucial to be mindful of what we eat and drink during this time. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Prachi Jain, chief clinical nutritionist, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, emphasised the importance of building a strong immune system with an appropriate diet. Also read | Low energy in monsoon? Doctor shares 5 nutrients that you need to add to diet for recharging low mood Have more seasonal fruits and veggies in the monsoon season.(Unsplash) The nutritionist shared a guide on what to eat and what to avoid during monsoon: 1. Consume seasonal fruits with high vitamin C Add oranges, guavas, lemons, amla (Indian gooseberry), and kiwi. They are high in antioxidants and aid in the battle against viral and bacterial infections. Vitamin C is known to boost the activity of white blood cells, which are vital for immunity. 2. Include seasonal vegetables but cook them properly Consume greens, fresh and cooked properly, bottle gourd (lauki), ridge gourd (turai), bitter gourd (karela), and pumpkin. Do not consume raw salads; thoroughly cook vegetables to destroy pathogens. Include turmeric during cooking for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. 3. Include probiotic-rich foods Curd, buttermilk, and fermented foods are responsible for promoting gut health, which is directly associated with immune strength. These enhance digestion and inhibit bloating; a monsoon commonality. Add more probiotic-rich foods such as curd to your diet.(Unsplash) 4. Opt for light, warm, and cooked food Heavy oily and fried food that is difficult to digest has to be avoided during the time. Soups, khichdi, dal-chawal, and light-spiced stews are the best options, or one pot meal with curd is the easy option. Also read | Worried about digestive troubles in monsoon? Dietician shares 8 tips to follow: 'Keep natural probiotics in diet' 5. Hydrate with herbal drinks Drink lukewarm water, lemonade, buttermilk, tulsi tea (holy basil), ginger tea, or cumin-coriander-fennel water. Include home made fresh soups They help remove toxins, promote digestion, and boost immunity. 6. Incorporate immunity-boosting spices Turmeric, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and cinnamon possess potent antiviral and antibacterial properties. Incorporate them into food or as ingredients of herbal teas and soups 7. Shun street food and cut fruits Being exposed to tainted water and unhygienic and poor handling, street food is a petri dish for infections. Always prefer freshly prepared home-cooked food. 8. Keep it simple and safe Eat light, fresh, and warm cooked food. Be careful about hygiene and water intake. With the right food choices, you can sail through monsoons without impairing your immunity. Also read | Gastroenterologist shares dos and don'ts of diet for proper gut health in monsoon Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
14 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Is work stress making men weak? These Ayurveda tips can help beat burnout, restore energy and focus
Notifications never sleep and neither do you so, for most men today, the workday does not end; it spills over. The grind shows up in places no one talks about: persistent fatigue, mental fog and dipping energy. Men, check out these Ayurvedic solutions to beat stress, burnout and low energy.(Image by Pixabay) Underneath the hustle is a hormonal imbalance quietly building. Stress floods the system while vital hormones responsible for recovery and focus begin to taper. The result? Burnout becomes the new baseline and most men do not realise it until their body forces a shutdown. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Govind, Chief Innovation Officer at Kapiva, shared, 'What looks like fatigue on the surface is often a deeper hormonal shift triggered by sustained stress. A growing body of research confirms that prolonged stress directly impacts testosterone levels, immunity, sleep quality and even cardiovascular health.' From strength to wellness: Optimising testosterone for holistic muscle growth in men.(Image by Pexels) Studies suggest that high-stress jobs can suppress testosterone and elevate cortisol, the very hormone responsible for our fight-or-flight response. Dr Govind revealed, 'Over time, this hormonal imbalance doesn't just affect mood or mental health; it chips away at physical vitality, muscle mass, stamina and this is where Ayurveda offers timely wisdom and Shilajit, in particular, has emerged as a promising adaptogen for modern male health.' The stress-testosterone connection One of the most cited studies published in Andrologia (2016)showed that men aged 45–55 who took 250 mg of purified Shilajit twice daily for 90 days experienced a significant increase in both total testosterone (the overall amount in the bloodstream) and free testosterone (the active form that directly influences energy, mood and physical performance). This wasn't a folk remedy. It was a controlled, peer-reviewed clinical trial. What exactly is Shilajit and why the hype? Dr Govind answered, 'Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that seeps from high-altitude Himalayan rocks during warmer months. It's been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenator or 'rasayana', a class of herbs and compounds known to enhance strength, longevity and cellular function.' Shilajit for fitness: Boosting testosterone to collagen, Ayurveda expert reveals health benefits of taking the Himalayan herb (Photo by Twitter/Helios_Movement) He added, 'Modern science now backs many of these claims. Shilajit is rich in fulvic acid and trace minerals that support mitochondrial energy production, the very process that fuels every cell in the body. Research has shown that it helps reduce fatigue, increase energy levels, stamina and metabolism, improve recovery after exertion, and even enhance physical endurance.' Adaptogen for the age of anxiety Dr Govind gushed, 'More than just a physical tonic, Shilajit is considered an adaptogen, an agent that helps the body adapt to stress. Early research indicates that Shilajit may help support the body's stress-regulation system, potentially improving both energy and mental clarity over time. This is particularly relevant for men navigating high-pressure careers, poor sleep, hygiene and inconsistent nutrition, factors that collectively wear down hormonal balance.' An Ayurvedic approach to male burnout According to Dr Govind, Ayurveda doesn't stop at treating symptoms — it focuses on restoring long-term balance. Shilajit is often paired with other adaptogenic herbs: Ashwagandha, known for improving stress response and strength Safed Musli, which aids recovery and natural energy levels Gokshura, traditionally used to support stamina and physical performance Dr Govind pointed out, 'These combinations aim to support men's overall vitality and resilience without resorting to stimulants or synthetic quick fixes. Ayurveda recommends small, sustainable habits that compound over time: a few minutes of mindful movement in the morning, warm and balanced meals on schedule, regular exposure to sunlight, and switching off screens an hour before bed. These seemingly minor shifts help recalibrate the nervous system and give adaptogens like Shilajit the environment to work better.' Shrub-like ashwagandha can cope with everything from cancer to hair loss(Shutterstock) Men in their 30s and 40s often dismiss early warning signs, low energy and poor sleep as just 'part of adulting' but these are often the body's way of signalling deeper imbalances. Dr Govind cautioned, 'If left unaddressed, they can spiral into more serious issues, from metabolic disorders to mood disturbances.' He suggested, 'Shilajit, when taken consistently and as part of a balanced routine, may be a valuable tool in managing modern male stress. It's not a silver bullet — but it is a clinically studied, natural ally that helps the body repair, restore, and sustain energy under pressure. Skip the burnout bravado and start building real resilience from the inside out.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
