Young Indians turn to social media for skincare fixes, doctors warn of steroid misuse

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Young Indians turn to social media for skincare fixes, doctors warn of steroid misuse

From acne and eczema to pigmentation, young Indians are increasingly turning to social media and over-the-counter products for skin problems, but dermatologists warn that delayed diagnosis and steroid misuse can worsen the condition

Skin problems during adolescence are often dismissed as a temporary or cosmetic concern, but dermatologists say persistent acne, eczema, pigmentation and other disorders can affect much more than appearance. A study of adolescents in South India found acne and eczema among the more common dermatological conditions, while research among Indian adolescents and young adults has also linked acne with body-image concerns and impaired quality of life.

At the same time, the explosion of skincare content on social media has made it easier for young people to experiment with products and treatments without first establishing what condition they actually have. That can be particularly problematic when products containing topical steroids are used without medical supervision

The American Academy of Dermatology suggest that inappropriate use of topical corticosteroids can cause side effects including skin thinning, stretch marks, visible blood vessels and acne-like breakouts. For teenagers and young adults, the consequences can extend beyond the skin. Acne may leave scars and pigmentation, while eczema can cause persistent itching, discomfort and sleep disturbance. Visible skin problems can also affect confidence, social interaction and psychological wellbeing.

Social media is changing how young people treat their skin

Dr Rinky Kapoor, Co-Founder & Director, The Esthetic Clinics, said dermatologists are seeing an increase in teenagers seeking consultation for persistent skin problems

She attributed the trend to several possible factors, including stress, lifestyle changes, pollution, disrupted sleep, dietary habits and the increasing use of multiple skincare products

“Trends on social media have pushed individuals to try products and treatment options regardless of their skin type,” Kapoor said, adding that persistent skin problems cannot be attributed to a single cause

The availability of skincare advice online can also encourage adolescents to self-treat rather than seek a proper diagnosis

According to Kapoor, many brands promote products with promises of quick or instant results, but different skin conditions require different treatment approaches. A product that works for one condition or skin type may aggravate another

Steroid creams can make things worse

One of the concerns is the unsupervised use of steroid creams. Kapoor warned that using such products without proper medical advice can result in skin atrophy, hyperpigmentation, acne formation and increased sensitivity

This concern is also reflected in dermatology guidance. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using topical corticosteroids only as directed, because inappropriate or prolonged use—particularly of stronger steroids on sensitive areas such as the face—can cause skin thinning and other complications

Kapoor said young people should not continue experimenting with over-the-counter products if a skin problem persists

A dermatologist should be consulted when a condition does not improve with basic treatment, keeps returning, begins spreading, becomes painful or itchy, or starts causing scarring or pigmentation

A sudden skin reaction after using a new product also warrants medical attention, she said. Similarly, if several over-the-counter products have already been tried without improvement, further experimentation could make the condition worse

Acne and eczema are not simply cosmetic problems

Kapoor said acne and eczema are often overlooked because they are visible on the skin and therefore perceived primarily as cosmetic problems

But acne can result in scarring and discolouration, while eczema can cause severe itching, pain and insomnia. These effects can have a significant impact on everyday life

Research from India has also highlighted the psychological and quality-of-life impact of acne among adolescents and young adults. In one study involving 250 people aged 13 to 25, the severity of acne was significantly associated with body-image disturbance and impaired quality of life

Kapoor said the impact can be particularly difficult for younger people, who may already be highly conscious of their appearance

“Some might even avoid photographs, social events or activities where their skin is more exposed,” she said

Persistent itching or discomfort can also interfere with sleep and concentration, adding another layer to the problem

When should a young person see a dermatologist?

According to Kapoor, several warning signs should prompt a consultation rather than continued self-treatment:

• A skin condition that persists despite basic treatment
• Repeated flare-ups or recurrence
• A rash or other problem that begins spreading
• Persistent pain or itching
• Development of scars or pigmentation
• A sudden reaction after using a new skincare product
• Symptoms that continue despite trying multiple over-the-counter products

The broader concern, Kapoor said, is that treating skin disease should not be limited to improving its physical appearance

“Treating skin diseases involves not only addressing their physical manifestations but also their impact on an individual’s quality of life,” she said

For young people, that means resisting the temptation to follow every viral skincare trend and recognising that persistent or unusual symptoms may require a proper diagnosis. A study of Indian schoolchildren has previously found skin conditions to be common in this age group, underscoring that dermatological problems among children and adolescents are not unusual or merely cosmetic

Health
First Published:Aug 22, 2026, 18:08:00 IST
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