Why Dermatologists Are Calling Out Influencer Skincare
Dermatologists in India are warning against viral skincare trends and steroid-laced products promoted by influencers. Here's what you need to know.
07 Jul'25
By Amanda
Why Dermatologists Are Calling Out Influencer Skincare
It’s the Instagram skincare era but behind the glow filters and “GRWM” routines is a growing concern. Indian dermatologists are speaking out against unregulated influencer skincare.
From unauthorised use of steroid creams to misleading product endorsements, the lines between skincare advice and skincare harm are blurring and it’s time we paid attention.
The Rise (and Risk) of Influencer Skincare
Influencers with no dermatology background often suggest routines involving:
- Unprescribed steroid creams
- Over-exfoliation combinations
- Unsafe DIYs (lemon, toothpaste, even garlic)
“We’re seeing patients as young as 15 with topical steroid dependency syndrome from using influencer-recommended whitening creams,” says Dr. Ankur Sarin, Consultant Dermatologist at SkinCraft. Read his case report
The Steroid Cream Crisis in India
Many whitening or “quick glow” creams promoted online contain clobetasol or betamethasone—strong steroids that thin the skin and worsen pigmentation.
In 2020, the Indian Association of Dermatologists filed a petition to ban over-the-counter steroid creams. Yet today, they still pop up in viral skincare reels.
"When influencers promote steroids as skin brighteners, it puts millions at risk," warns Dr. Madhuri Aggarwal. See news coverage on this issue
Motion: Myth vs Fact Reels
Dermatologists are fighting back with motion. Trending now:
- Split-screen myth vs fact reels
- X-ray-style skin damage animation
- Before/after steroid cream misuse clips
Admigos tip: Use shock value but keep visuals clean and science-backed.
Why Trust Is Broken
According to a 2024 survey by LocalCircles India,
- 61% of users trust influencer reviews less than they did in 2022
- 74% believe influencers “don’t disclose sponsored deals honestly”
Skincare education needs a reset—rooted in science, not shouty routines.
What Dermatologists Recommend Instead
- Always patch test
- Avoid “instant glow” hacks
- Opt for regulated products (look for CDSCO approval in India)
- Seek dermatologist consultation for chronic issues
Top anti-inflammatory, steroid-free picks:Bioderma Sebium Global Acne Treatment Cream
- Cipla Saslic DS Salicylic Acid Face Wash
- Bioderma Sebium Global Acne Treatment Cream Skincare shouldn’t be a gamble. It’s time to move from viral to verified, and give space to professionals who’ve studied the skin not just filtered it.
- For more blogs like this check this out https://hireadmigos.com/thrve/stories/Why_Neem_Is_Trending_Again_in_Skincare
#InfluencerSkincare #DermApprovedOnly #SkincareTruthIndia #StopSteroidAbuse #MythVsFactSkin
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