Rising trend of at-home beauty devices sparks safety concerns

The growing popularity of at-home beauty devices is raising concern among dermatologists, who say the trend is moving beyond basic skincare into medical territory. Dr Satish Bhatia, a board-certified dermatologist at the Indian Cancer Society said, “What began with simple tools like face brushes and LED masks has now expanded to devices such as microneedling pens, radio-frequency tools and chemical peels, which are not meant for unsupervised use.”

Explaining the appeal, the doctor said, “Convenience, lower cost and the promise of control over one’s skin are driving this rise, but the risks are often underestimated.” The doctor referred to regulatory warnings, adding, “The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has clearly stated that procedures like microneedling are medical interventions that should only be performed by trained professionals.”

Highlighting potential complications, the doctor said, “Serious side effects linked to such treatments include burns, scarring, fat loss, nerve damage and even permanent hair loss in some cases.” The doctor noted that these risks increase when devices are used without proper knowledge of skin type, hygiene and technique.

The doctor also pointed to the role of social media in spreading misinformation. “Many people are influenced by online videos and advice that present these procedures as routine skincare, which creates a false sense of safety,” the doctor said.

Emphasising caution, the doctor said, “Once a treatment affects deeper layers of the skin, the margin for error becomes very small. These are medical procedures, not simple beauty routines.”

The doctor advised that professional guidance remains essential. “It is important to consult a qualified dermatologist before trying such treatments to avoid long-term damage,” the doctor said.