Unregulated Anti-Ageing Treatments in India Spark Safety Concerns After Tragic Death

The sudden death of Bollywood actress Shefali Jariwala, aged 42, on June 27, 2025, has brought India’s booming anti-ageing industry under scrutiny. Jariwala, known for her iconic role in the 2002 music video Kaanta Laga, reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest, with preliminary investigations pointing to her long-term use of unregulated anti-ageing treatments, including intravenous (IV) glutathione infusions and multiple health supplements. Her death has ignited a global conversation about the risks of cosmetic procedures, particularly in India, where the anti-ageing market is growing rapidly but often lacks proper oversight. Experts are now urging caution and calling for stricter regulations to protect consumers.

A Booming Industry with Hidden Risks

India’s anti-ageing industry is part of a global market valued at $50 billion in 2024, expected to reach $80 billion by 2032, according to market analysis reports. In India alone, cosmetic procedures surged by 25% from 2023 to 2024, with over 1.29 million treatments performed, including 76,720 Botox injections and 97,160 dermal filler procedures. Popular non-surgical treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, laser therapies, and IV glutathione infusions promise youthful skin and vitality, attracting millions, including younger generations like Gen-Z and millennials.

However, experts warn that the lack of regulation in India’s aesthetics market poses serious health risks. Dr. Randeep Guleria, former director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), emphasized, “Anti-ageing treatments are becoming very popular, but they’re mostly unregulated. Many products lack scientific evidence to prove they work and can cause harmful side effects, especially when used for long periods.” He highlighted the need for stricter oversight, noting that some treatments, if found harmful, should be banned.

The Dangers of Unsupervised Treatments

Shefali Jariwala’s case has raised red flags about IV glutathione, a controversial treatment marketed for skin lightening and anti-ageing. Reports suggest Jariwala had been using glutathione infusions and up to eight or nine supplements daily, often without medical supervision, while fasting. Dr. BL Jangid, a dermatologist at SkinQure Clinic in Delhi, explained, “IV glutathione introduces high doses directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the body’s natural defenses. Without proper regulation, it can lead to severe side effects, including contamination risks.” He cited reports from Australia and the Philippines about contaminated IV glutathione vials causing serious health issues.

Other common anti-ageing treatments, such as Botox and dermal fillers, are generally safe when administered by certified professionals. However, Dr. Bhavuk Dhir, a consultant dermatologist at PSRI Hospital, warned that procedures performed by untrained practitioners in non-clinical settings like salons or spas can lead to complications. “These are medical procedures requiring in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy and sterile techniques. Mistakes can cause infections, facial asymmetry, or even vision loss,” he said. In rare cases, allergic reactions or anaphylaxis from injectables can trigger life-threatening conditions, such as a sudden drop in blood pressure leading to cardiac arrest.

Dr. Jyoti Kusnur, an interventional cardiologist at Manipal Hospital, Goa, added, “Certain additives in anti-ageing injections may cause allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, which can precipitate a cardiac arrest. There’s no proven research showing these treatments extend life, only cosmetic benefits like skin lightening.”

Expert Opinions: Safety First

Experts agree that while anti-ageing treatments can enhance appearance, they must be approached with caution. Dr. Viral Desai, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Mumbai, defended the safety of clinically approved procedures like Botox and dermal fillers when performed by trained professionals. “Serious risks like vascular occlusion are rare and usually result from improper techniques, not the treatments themselves,” he said. However, he stressed the importance of choosing certified providers in clinical settings to minimize risks.

Dr. Neha Taneja, an assistant professor of dermatology at AIIMS Delhi, emphasized a balanced approach. “In aesthetics, less is more. Consistency, not shortcuts, leads to safe, long-term results,” she said. She cautioned against the growing trend of seeking quick fixes like IV infusions or treatments from unqualified providers, which can lead to severe consequences, including skin burns or fatalities in rare cases.

Dr. Ajara Sayyad, an aesthetic dermatologist at The Eterne Clinic in Mumbai, highlighted the dangers of over-the-counter supplements marketed as “natural” or “safe.” “These products often contain active ingredients like steroids, which can silently harm the body without medical guidance,” she warned. She urged consumers to prioritize health screenings and consult certified professionals before starting any treatment.

A Call for Regulation and Awareness

The tragic death of Shefali Jariwala has prompted experts to call for stronger regulations in India’s anti-ageing industry. Dr. Guleria advocated for banning unproven treatments and regulating those with potential risks. “If there’s no evidence of safety or usefulness, and they’re found to be harmful, they should be banned,” he said.

Consumers are also advised to take proactive steps to protect themselves:
– Consult certified professionals: Always seek treatments from board-certified dermatologists or cosmetic surgeons in clinical settings.
– Demand transparency: Ask for full disclosure of ingredients, dosages, and potential side effects before undergoing any procedure.
– Avoid non-clinical settings: Steer clear of salons, spas, or home-based services offering injectables or IV infusions.
– Monitor health: Regular health screenings can help detect adverse reactions to treatments or supplements early.

A Global Warning

Shefali Jariwala’s death serves as a stark reminder that the pursuit of youth should not come at the cost of health. As India’s anti-ageing industry continues to grow, the lack of regulation and oversight remains a pressing concern. Globally, similar risks exist wherever cosmetic treatments are performed without proper standards. Experts urge consumers worldwide to prioritize safety, choose qualified providers, and approach anti-ageing treatments with informed caution.

For those seeking youthful skin, the message is clear: beauty is valuable, but health is priceless. As Dr. Jangid put it, “No anti-ageing result is worth endangering your life.”