Medical experts in Goa have raised serious concerns about the increasing number of unqualified practitioners offering cosmetic and dermatological procedures, warning that such practices could put patients at significant health risk.
The warning came from the Goa branch of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL), which has called for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and the creation of comprehensive government guidelines to curb illegal cosmetic treatments.
The issue was discussed during a meeting held in Margao on March 10, where members resolved to take a unified stand against salons, spas and unqualified individuals offering unauthorised skin, hair and cosmetic procedures, particularly hair transplantation.
The initiative aligns with IADVL’s national campaign “Freedom from Quackery,” aimed at raising public awareness and encouraging collaboration with regulators to ensure safe and ethical dermatological practices.
The association highlighted concerns that surfaced after two deaths in Kanpur in 2025, where individuals allegedly underwent illegal hair transplantation procedures conducted by a dentist. The controversy arose following a notice issued by the Dental Council of India in December 2022, which stated that dentists with an MDS in oral and maxillofacial surgery could perform aesthetic and hair transplant procedures.
Subsequently, the Madras High Court on January 21, 2026 directed the Government of India to constitute a committee to clarify whether such procedures can legally be performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
Medical experts from IADVL stressed that hair transplantation requires specialised training beyond surgical skill. They explained that proper expertise in cutaneous and follicular science is essential to avoid complications.
Dr Karla Faleiro, President of IADVL Goa, emphasised that dermatologists undergo extensive training in diagnosing and treating more than 3,000 diseases related to skin, hair and nails, making them uniquely qualified to handle such procedures.
She noted that short vocational courses in cosmetology cannot replace the depth of medical training required for dermatological treatments. Similarly, she warned that professionals trained in other medical fields may not possess the expertise needed to manage hair disorders.
Dr Raghuvir alias Tanmay Kane, Secretary of IADVL Goa, added that procedures involving skin and hair — including laser treatments, fillers and hair transplants — should be considered medical interventions rather than beauty services.
He cautioned that when individuals without appropriate medical training perform these procedures, patients may face serious consequences such as infections, permanent scarring and long-term damage.
The association has urged the government to issue clear national guidelines and strengthen enforcement mechanisms to prevent illegal cosmetic practices and protect public health.
IADVL Goa has also advised the public to verify the medical qualifications and registration of doctors with the state medical council before undergoing any skin or cosmetic procedure. According to the association, the doctor’s registration number must appear on prescriptions, and patients should remain cautious of misleading advertisements or services offered by unlicensed practitioners.
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