anti-aging-treatments-chasing-youth-facing-risks

Actress Shefali Jariwala's death has sparked serious worries about the possible dangers of anti-aging treatments and calls for their use to be used more carefully. Shefali Jariwala, who starred in the famous music video Kaanta Laga, died on 27 June 2025, at the age of 42.

 

The preliminary inquiries indicate that her death may have been related to heavy consumption/unmonitored use of anti-aging drugs like glutathione and vitamin C injections.

 

What is the anti-aging treatment?

 

These treatments help one to age not too soon. -These are the medical treatments that encompass a range of medical, cosmetic, and lifestyle interventions aimed at slowing, preventing, or reversing visible and physiological signs of aging, such as wrinkles, skin sagging, and reduced vitality.

 

The treatments basically use the antioxidants and other ingredients to enhance skin texture and encourage a youthful appearance, these treatments -- which are frequently promoted as skin whitening and rejuvenation -- strive to lessen the appearance of aging.

 

What treatments are we talking about -

 

Cosmetic Procedures - These include treatments of Botox and Fillers, Chemical Peels and Laser Therapy, and Microneedling.

• Injections such as - botulinum toxin (Botox) reduce wrinkles by paralysing facial muscles, while dermal fillers (for example: hyaluronic acid) repair volume to face areas like cheeks and lips.
• Chemical Peels and Laser Therapy remove dead skin layers or stimulate collagen production to improve skin texture while also reducing age spots.
• In microneedling, tiny needles are used to trigger collagen and elastin production which further improves skin firmness and reduces fine lines on the face.

Also Read: Anti-ageing jab may have triggered Jariwala’s cardiac arrest

 

Topical Treatments include -

• Retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives (for example - retinol, and tretinoin) promote cell turnover and collagen synthesis but may also cause irritation, redness, or sun sensitivity.
• Antioxidants such as - creams or serums with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, or niacinamide combat oxidative stress and brighten skin.

 

The Injectable Therapies -

• Glutathione Injections: They are for skin whitening and anti-aging. Glutathione, an antioxidant, is believed to reduce oxidative damage and improve one's skin tone. However, unsupervised use, as speculated in Shefali Jariwala's case, may lead to risks like BP drops or cardiac complications. 
• Vitamin C Injections: Administered to improve skin radiance & collagen production, but excessive or improper use can cause side effects like kidney strain.  

 

Hormonal & Regenerative Therapies -

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Adjusts hormone levels (for instance - estrogen, testosterone) to address age-related reductions, improving energy and skin elasticity, but carries risks like increased cancer or cardiovascular issues.
• Stem Cell Therapy aims to regenerate tissues but is experimental and lacks widespread regulation.

 

Lifestyle and Nutritional Interventions - 

• Supplements antioxidants such as - resveratrol, coenzyme Q10, or collagen peptides are marketed to support skin and overall health, though the evidence is mixed.
• Diet and Exercise: Anti-inflammatory diets (for example - Mediterranean diet) and regular exercise improve cellular health and reduce aging markers.

 

Emerging Technologies -

• Peptide Therapies: Peptides like GHK-Cu are explored for tissue repair and skin rejuvenation.
• Gene-Based Therapies: Experimental approaches targeting longevity genes (e.g., NAD+ boosters) are under research but not widely available.

Also Read: Massaging skin's fascia: Anti-aging claim or just hype?

 

Let's check about the possible disadvantages and possible risks behind these anti-aging treatments - 

• Health Risks-

Glutathione and Vitamin C injections, if misused, can cause toxicity, allergic reactions, or cardiovascular issues (e.g., sudden blood pressure drops, as speculated in Jariwala’s death on June 27, 2025).

• Side Effects -

Retinoids may lead to skin irritation, peeling, or sun sensitivity. Botox can cause bruising or muscle weakness if improperly administered.

• Unregulated Practices -

Many treatments, especially injections, are offered by unqualified practitioners, increasing risks of infection or incorrect dosing.

• Limited Evidence -

Some therapies (e.g., certain supplements or stem cell treatments) lack robust scientific backing, relying on anecdotal claims.

• Cost and Accessibility -

Treatments like laser therapy or HRT can be expensive and require ongoing maintenance, with results varying widely.