Karachi Clinics Shut Down for Unsafe Beauty Treatments

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Authorities in Sindh have sealed 18 illegal aesthetic clinics across Karachi, exposing a growing trend of unqualified individuals performing risky cosmetic procedures. The Sindh Healthcare Commission (SHCC) confirmed the action, which took place over the last month in areas including Clifton, DHA, Saddar, Ittehad Town, and Ranchore Line.

SHCC’s Anti-Quackery Wing reported that many of these clinics were operating without licensed medical professionals. In one case, a sociology graduate was found running a clinic in DHA, performing treatments without any formal medical training. SHCC officials uncovered violations including poor hygiene, unregulated treatments, and the use of unsafe methods like skin-whitening drips and anti-aging injections.

“We’ve inspected more than 80 clinics so far, and the crackdown will continue until all illegal operations are shut down,” said Ahmer Abbas Saldera, Assistant Director at SHCC.

Video footage from the raids has shown unsanitary conditions at several clinics. In one recent case in DHA Phase II, the clinic owner tried to halt the raid through phone calls, but the facility was sealed by SHCC.

SHCC Chief Executive Officer Dr Ahson Qavi Siddiqi warned the public against visiting unverified aesthetic centres. He emphasized that all procedures such as facials, skin injectables, and beauty drips—must only be performed under the supervision of dermatologists certified by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).

“There’s currently no PMDC-approved qualification in aesthetics in Pakistan,” Dr Siddiqi stated. “Many of these so-called ‘experts’ have no medical background and advertise on social media and morning TV shows, misleading the public.”

Some clinics reportedly displayed large billboards with fake credentials and celebrity endorsements to gain credibility. These practices are not only deceptive but also illegal and dangerous to public health.

SHCC is now working on drafting formal technical guidelines to regulate the sector and ensure only certified and evidence-based procedures are allowed.

Dr Siddiqi also expressed concern about media platforms, particularly morning shows, that promote unqualified individuals as experts. He noted that SHCC currently cannot inspect salons unless a formal complaint is filed, due to a legal gap. He called for new legislation to bring such businesses under strict regulatory control.

Treatments being offered at these unregistered clinics include PRP therapy, Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, and laser procedures services that should only be handled by trained professionals. Without oversight, these treatments can pose serious health risks.