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SOCIETY, Lifestyle, Republica Watch

Skin Deep: Exploring Skin Aesthetics in Nepal

How do you define beauty? The answer could be anything but objective. The concept of beauty has been debated and redefined throughout history. From the ancient emphasis on symmetry and proportion such as the golden ratio, to the contemporary embracement of individuality and uniqueness, we continue to celebrate the complexity of beauty.
By Sara Pahari

How do you define beauty? The answer could be anything but objective. The concept of beauty has been debated and redefined throughout history. From the ancient emphasis on symmetry and proportion such as the golden ratio, to the contemporary embracement of individuality and uniqueness, we continue to celebrate the complexity of beauty.


It is important for us to acknowledge that beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept. People in Nepal have distinct skin color and features, the country’s ethnic diversity manifests in its people’s appearances. From fair-skinned Brahmins to dark-skinned  Tharus, from monolid-eyed Magars to wide-eyed Chhetris, Nepal’s beauty lies in its multifaceted and ever-changing skin aesthetics.


Despite this richness, skin aesthetics in Nepal have been subject to stereotypes, prejudices, and misconceptions. For instance, the assumption that fair skin is the only beauty standard is not only inaccurate, but it also perpetuates racism. Fortunately, there is an increasing acknowledgement of skin aesthetics diversity in Nepal, which challenges these biases and celebrates the beauty of all skin types.


Nepal has diverse beauty, but did you know that it is also becoming a hub for cosmetic surgery? In recent years, there has been a rise in skin aesthetics treatments and products that cater to people's diverse preferences and requirements. For instance, Ayurvedic skincare, which uses natural and herbal ingredients and traditional methods, has become increasingly popular among Nepalis who value their heritage and seek sustainable and holistic skincare solutions. Likewise, modern cosmetic treatments, such as Botox, augmentation, laser hair removal and acne scar reduction, have also gained popularity among Nepalis who want to enhance their natural beauty and feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.


Initially, cosmetic surgery in Nepal was limited to only a few procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose job), breast augmentation, and liposuction. However, with the advancement of medical technology and the growing demand for cosmetic surgery, a wider range of procedures are now available in Nepal. These include facelifts using fillers and Botox, surgery, tummy tucks, buttock augmentation, fat transplant and many more. These methods are widely used to enhance one’s facial features, improve body contour, or simply boost one’s self-confidence. With advanced technology and highly skilled doctors, Nepal offers a range of procedures to enhance our features and help us feel our best.



If you have ever dreamed of having a more defined nose, fuller lips, or a tauter tummy, with rhinoplasty, lip augmentation, and tummy tucks, these are all possible in Nepal. And it's not just limited to facial and body enhancements. With advanced techniques, one can also get a hair transplant, microdermabrasion, and even corrective eye surgery.


But it's not just the range of procedures that make Nepal a game-changer in the world of cosmetic surgery. The affordability of these procedures is also noteworthy. One of the major advantages of undergoing cosmetic surgery in Nepal is that it is significantly cheaper than in many Western countries, without compromising on the quality of the procedure. This has made cosmetic surgery accessible to a larger population in Nepal, who would otherwise not be able to afford it. Plus, Nepal's friendly and welcoming culture makes it a desirable destination for medical tourism.


Nepal has a good reputation in the field of cosmetic surgery, with many experienced and highly qualified surgeons who have trained abroad and are skilled in performing these treatments. The procedures and equipment used at the cosmetic surgery centers in Nepal are also of high quality and meet international standards.


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Clear, smooth skin


Skin aesthetics have taken Nepal by storm in recent years. There are endless options with impressive results. In fact, some of the top clinics in Nepal are providing game-changing procedures that have revolutionized the industry.


One such clinic is Skin Arts Aesthetics, which offers state-of-the-art treatments like liposuction, breast augmentation, and rhinoplasty. Their highly experienced and skilled surgeons use the latest technology and techniques to deliver stunning results that exceed their clients’ expectations.


Another leading clinic is Kathmandu Clinic of Cosmetic Surgery, which specializes in non-invasive procedures like Botox and dermal fillers. Their expert team of dermatologists uses the best quality products to ensure natural-looking and long-lasting results.


The evolution of cosmetic surgery in Nepal has been remarkable, with clinics adopting the latest advancements in the field. Many clinics now offer minimally invasive procedures that require little to no downtime, making them more accessible to a wider range of clients.


For example, Lumina Aesthetics Clinic has introduced the PRP treatment aka ‘Vampire Facial’, which uses the client's own blood to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. This innovative treatment has garnered a lot of attention and has become a go-to procedure for those looking to enhance their natural beauty.


With the growing popularity of innovative cosmetic treatments, many individuals are seeking out experienced dermatologists who offer the latest procedures to enhance their natural beauty. One such expert is Dr Jebina Lama, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic treatments. She has been practicing in Nepal for the past few years. Dr Lama did her MD in Dermatology and graduated from Sichuan University, China, in 2014. With a background in Aesthetic Dermatology and Dermato-Laser Surgery, Dr Lama brings a wealth of expertise and the very latest treatments to people seeking solutions for aesthetic concerns. The Skin Clinic by Dr Lama aims at creating an aesthetic partnership with each of their clients.


Dr Udip Shrestha is a nutrition expert and an aesthetician. Healthy Choice clinic by Dr Shrestha has been providing services such as hair transplant and restoration, advanced body slimming and tightening, micro needling, hydrafacial services and many more.


Dr Uma Keyal is a dermatologist, aesthetician and laser expert who has special interest and experience in aesthetic treatment. These are only a few names who people looking for cosmetic surgery in Nepal reach out to through their clinics or organizations, or through professional associations like the Nepal Medical Association or the Nepal Society of Dermatology and Venereology.


Fortunately, the advent of online healthcare service providers such as Hamro Doctor has made it significantly easier for individuals in Nepal to reach out to skin aesthetics services. Hamro Doctor is the first online healthcare service provider in Nepal that offer users convenient access to medical professionals and clinics, allowing them to easily book appointments, receive online consultations, buy health packages and find doctors near them.


Similarly, e-com platforms like Bellevogue np have been drop-shipping authentic facial devices such as Nuface microcurrent facial toning device, Foreo face sculpting devices, microdermabrasion tools and derma rollers.


Navigating complexities


While the skin aesthetics industry is rapidly growing and shows no signs of slowing down, it faces several challenges as well. One of the main challenges facing the skin aesthetics industry in Nepal is the lack of regulation. There are no laws or guidelines governing the industry, and this can lead to unqualified or untrained practitioners offering treatments that may be unsafe or ineffective.


Another challenge is the lack of formal training and education for skin aesthetics professionals in Nepal. While there are some training programs available, they are often not standardized, and there is no requirement for practitioners to have specific qualifications or certifications. Likewise, there is a high risk of counterfeit or substandard products being used in skin aesthetics treatments in Nepal. These products may be cheaper but can be dangerous as they may not be tested for safety or efficacy.



There are also potential risks associated with certain skin aesthetics treatments, such as chemical peels, laser therapy, and injectables. These treatments can cause adverse effects like burns, scarring, infections, and may show different results depending on the skin types. Additionally, there is also the risk of misleading advertising in the skin aesthetics industry, with some clinics or practitioners making false claims about the benefits of certain treatments or using before-and-after photos that are not real.


All these challenges and risks highlight the importance of proper regulation, training, and education for skin aesthetics professionals in Nepal. People should also be aware of the potential risks associated with certain treatments and seek treatment only from qualified and reputed practitioners. It is crucial to strike a balance between promoting the benefits of skin aesthetics treatments while also ensuring that people are fully informed of the potential risks and complications.


An industry on the rise


The global beauty industry at $511 billion is one of the fastest-growing businesses and is expected to reach over $716 billion by 2025. Not only is the skin aesthetics segment a significant part of the beauty and wellness industry in Nepal, it is also growing rapidly, with the market size expected to reach Rs 34 billion (approximately USD 280 million) by 2024.


There is a growing demand for skin aesthetics treatments in Nepal, particularly among younger people. According to a report by Research and Markets, the skin care market in Nepal is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1 percent between 2020 and 2025, driven by an increasing awareness of skincare and beauty among Nepali consumers.


Debunking myths


There are several myths surrounding skin aesthetics in Nepal, some of which may be detrimental to skin health or lead to unnecessary use of skin aesthetics treatments. The myth that fair skin is desirable is not only harmful, but it may also lead to the use of harmful skin lightening products or treatments such as chemical peels.


Another popular myth is that sunscreen is necessary only on sunny days. While the temperature may not be very high, the sun's UV rays can still cause damage to the skin. It's essential to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.


Another myth about skin aesthetics treatments is that they are only for the rich and famous whereas in reality, while some skin aesthetics treatments may be expensive, there are also affordable options available. Moreover, most of these treatments are not exclusive to the rich and famous; they are available to anyone who wants to improve their skin health or appearance.


Awareness and education can play a vital role in debunking these myths and promoting good skin health practices in Nepal. By raising awareness of the importance of using sunscreen, adopting healthy skin care habits, and dispelling myths about skin aesthetics treatments, more people can make informed decisions about their skin health. This, in turn, may lead to an increase in demand for skin aesthetics treatments that are safe, effective, and affordable. By striking a balance between awareness and skin aesthetics treatments, the industry can continue to grow while also promoting good skin health practices.


In conclusion, the decision to pursue skin aesthetics is a personal choice and it is essential that it be made with careful consideration of one's own preferences and desires. As the beauty industry continues to grow, it's important to separate fact from fiction and do one’s own research before undergoing any treatment. With advancements in technology and an increasing demand for personalized care, there has never been a better time to explore the many options available for enhancing one’s natural beauty. So, go ahead and book that appointment. You deserve it!


 

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