Dark Side Of Going Fair

RED FLAGS TO LOOK OUT FOR Skin thinning (atrophy): The skin may appear translucent, with visible blood vessels around eyes. It may feel fragile, bruise easily, or show fine wrinkles Telangiectasia: Development of small, visible red blood vessels on the eyelids or under-eye area Periorbital dermatitis: A bumpy, red rash, often itchy or burning, which tends to worsen with continued steroid use and may spread around the nose or mouth Hypopigmentation: Light spots or patches that contrast with the surrounding skin, especially in darker skin tones Striae (stretch marks): Less common around the eyes but possible with potent steroids or prolonged use Persistent irritation or sensitivity: The area becomes more reactive to skincare, makeup, or even water

- ASHISH SRIVASTAVA @ New Delhi

When 45-year-old Anita Sahay arrived at the RP Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences at AIIMS Delhi, doctors were puzzled on finding out that her intraocular pressure was soaring above 40, more than double the normal range. Her blood and systemic markers were within normal limits, with no obvious medical cause. Perplexed by the results, they dwelled deeper into her daily routine and the surprising culprit emerged—a steroid-based facial cream. For years, Anita had been applying a popular skin cream to treat blemishes on her face. The result? She was diagnosed with glaucoma in both the eyes.

"She had been using the cream without knowing it contained steroids. That prolonged use eventually led to severe glaucoma in both eyes," said Dr Tanuj Dada, head of glaucoma services at AIIMS Delhi.

Medical experts are sounding the alarm about the often-overlooked role of steroid use in common medications and skin care products. A growing number of dermatologists and ophthalmologists are raising red flags over the indiscriminate use of steroid-based facial creams, warning that prolonged application—especially near the eyes—can significantly increase the risk of glaucoma, a potentially blinding eye disease.

From eye drops for allergies to inhalers for respiratory conditions and even over-the-counter creams, the long-term use of steroids is emerging as a significant risk factor.

Dubbed as the "silent thief of sight," Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve, which is often asymptomatic until advanced.

Don't get blindsided According to doctors, cosmetic products, particularly face creams containing steroids used for acne, pimples, or skin lightening, are a hidden threat. In rare cases, even cosmetic procedures like Botox have been reported to trigger a form of angle-closure glaucoma, though such occurrences are uncommon.