KARACHI: The Dermatology and Aesthetic Association of Pakistan (DAAP) held its annual conference, DAAPCon 2025, where experts highlighted the increasing popularity of cosmetic treatments and the need for stricter regulations to ensure safe practices. Dr. Bilal Shah, President of DAAP, emphasized that aesthetic procedures should only be performed by trained and registered professionals, warning against the risks posed by unqualified individuals in the field.
Dr. Shah pointed out the growing trend of cosmetic procedures in Pakistan, citing concerns about the lack of standardization in the industry. He urged the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and other regulatory bodies to take swift action against substandard clinics and unqualified practitioners to prevent permanent damage to clients.
Celebrity dermatologist Dr. Zara Shah, a key member of the conference’s organizing committee, spoke about the pressure on actresses and models to undergo unnecessary procedures like weight loss or nose reshaping. She also highlighted the increasing trend of young women opting for treatments like lip fillers and nose jobs without understanding the potential consequences, leading to facial damage due to lack of proper knowledge.
Dr. Zara also discussed the costs of aesthetic procedures, which range from Rs5,000 for basic treatments to Rs250,000-300,000 for advanced services. She provided insights into popular treatments, such as laser procedures for facial hair removal and melasma treatment, and the growing desire for “Korean glass skin” among young women. She also explained the benefits of emerging therapies like exosome therapy, which aids in skin regeneration and helps treat issues like pigmentation, wrinkles, acne, and hair loss.
The conference provided a platform for medical professionals to discuss the latest technological advancements in aesthetic treatments, aiming to improve the quality and safety of these services in Pakistan.