These creams are sold over the counter, even in barber shops and book stores, but their packs do not contain the mandatory information on ingredients. Photo: iStockKasaragod: Dermatologists in the north Kerala town have reported a spurt in patients who complained of various skin problems thanks to imported fairness creams available over the counter. About 160 people have sought treatment at the Institute of Applied Dermatology in the last one month.
Most of them had smeared either of the two fairness creams that have flooded the local market of late. They complained of rashes on their faces after applying the cream. They also said that their skin has darkened after they stopped applying the cream. Their foreheads have particularly blackened.
The imported creams have found many takers, with people from even neighboring Karnataka traveling to Kasaragod to buy them. These creams are sold over the counter, even in barber shops and book stores, but their packs do not contain the mandatory information on ingredients.
These creams could contain steroids and even mercury, skin specialist Dr S.R. Narahari said.
Most of the people who fall for the latest fad are boys. There are a handful of Indian brands similarly sold over the counter.
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