If you have chest pains, difficulty breathing, or stomach problems, you see a doctor. And yet, when you have skin issues like acne, pigmentation or itching, your first port of call may not be a doctor or a dermatologist, but a beautician who is not trained in the medical care of skin conditions. We question why skin health gets the short shrift, and explore the risks of certain cosmetic procedures carried out unqualified individuals, with Dato’ Dr Noor Zalmy Azizan, Immediate-Past President of  Persatuan Dermatologi Malaysia.

Search for a registered doctor: Malaysian Medical Council 

Search for a registered specialist: National Specialist Register 

Search for the procedures, practitioners and premises that are allowed to provide aesthetic services: Medical Practice Division, Ministry of Health

Search for a registered medical practitioner with a Letter of Credentialling and Privileging (approved to provide aesthetic services): National Registry of RMP Practising Aesthetic Medical Practice 

Report unapproved centres and providers to: amp@moh.gov.my

Image Credit: Shutterstock