In towns like Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, dermatologists are witnessing a surge in complex skin issues fuelled by misinformation and lifestyle changes. Dr Avinash Pravin of Pravin Skin Clinic has observed a sharp rise in fungal infections that do not respond to over-the-counter creams. He also sees many cases of stubborn pigmentation, steroid-induced damage, and chronic tanning, which are often misdiagnosed as “skin dullness”. Yet many patients turn to home remedies, advice from friends, or viral skincare hacks before consulting a doctor.
Rising demand for medical dermatology
Dr Avinash explained that Nagercoil is essentially a tier-two town. He said nearly 80 per cent of his patients need urgent care for severe itching, blistering, and life-threatening conditions like psoriasis. He added that only 20 percent of patients seek aesthetic treatments, while dermatologists in smaller towns increasingly handle urgent medical care. He emphasised that severe acne, for example, must be stabilised before treating scars or pigmentation.
Climate and lifestyle driving skin issues
The region’s tropical climate and lifestyle patterns exacerbate skin problems. High heat, humidity, long kitchen hours, contaminated water exposure, and rising diabetes rates all significantly impact skin health. Dr Avinash added that diabetes lowers immunity, causing even minor fungal infections to take longer to heal in affected patients.
Lifestyle habits worsen underlying conditions
Rising affordability in tier-two towns has also shaped dermatology trends. Patients increasingly seek glowing skin but ignore underlying health factors. He said that sedentary lifestyles and poor habits cause hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and skin darkening. He advised prioritising exercise, a proper diet, and good sleep over creams or serums.
Social media pushes misinformation faster
Social media has further complicated patient care. Many rely on influencers and viral content over qualified medical advice. Dr Avinash observes that non-dermatology influencers promote “magic serums” promising instant results. He notes that patients approach them only after experiencing damage and stresses the need for an online presence to counter misinformation.
Ethical dermatologists struggle for visibility
However, doctors face a tricky balance. Social media algorithms reward sensationalism, not accuracy. Dr Avinash explains that being viral does not equal credibility, yet patients expect it. He adds that ethical doctors who avoid endorsing products receive less reach, while others profit from reels without practising medicine properly. He advocates implementing stricter regulations to prevent misinformation and protect professional integrity.
Facts over fads in skincare
Dr Avinash also emphasises the difference between genuine medical care and social media advice. He explains that topical products work superficially, while deep pigmentation or acne requires treating root causes like hormones, diet, and lifestyle. He adds that home remedies like honey or turmeric cannot remove tanning, a natural protective response, and recommends sunscreen and patience.
A call for science-backed skincare
As tier-two towns like Nagercoil navigate modern aspirations alongside traditional practices, dermatologists encourage science-backed care over viral trends. Dr Avinash concludes that patients need guidance on lifestyle and medical treatment, emphasising that understanding skin relies on facts, not fads.