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In a video going viral on social media, MBBS Dr Aditij Dhamija can be seen saying that routine visits to neighbourhood parlours to get eyebrows shaped can expose one to “liver failure risk” owing to hepatitis concern, as it happened in the case of a 28-year-old woman. “Eyebrows banwane gayi thi lekin liver fail karwake aagayi. 28 saal ki mahila. (She went to get her eyebrows threaded, came back with liver failure). She came to the hospital with fatigue, nausea, and yellow eyes. Tests revealed her liver was giving up — not because of alcohol or medicines — but due to a beauty parlour visit gone wrong. This happened because reused threading material caused micro-cuts, through which Hepatitis B or C viruses entered her bloodstream,” said Dr Dhamija in an Instagram post.
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While it was unclear whether he treated the patient, his claim raises serious concerns about liver health. We reached out to an expert to understand the link between threading and liver health.
Threading is a popular beauty treatment, most commonly for eyebrow shaping or facial hair removal. It is often considered quick, easy, and harmless. So, can it cause liver failure?
Dr Amit Saraf, director, internal medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, said threading itself does not cause liver failure, but can establish a risk for hepatitis B and C infections if not done under hygienic conditions.
Is there a connection with your liver? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
“Hepatitis B and C are blood-borne viruses that are transferred via infected blood. If you get a small cut or abrasion from the threading, this could act as an entry point for infected blood. The thread, hands, or implements that are used could all pass on the virus, since we do not know if the hands or the thread are contaminated,” said Dr Saraf.
Over time, once you have an untreated hepatitis infection, it could progressively damage the liver severely, and in some instances, lead to cirrhosis or liver failure. “In summary, threading in itself is not dangerous to the liver, but can be risky depending upon the practices that are hygienic,” said Dr Saraf.
What should you note?
Always ensure threading takes place in a clean, professional setting. “Employing a new, disposable thread, washing hands, and sterilising the area before and after the process are simple but fundamental measures. It’s also wise to refrain from threading in case of any cuts or active skin infection within the area,” said Dr Saraf.
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Individuals who get regular threading treatments done must be careful of the possible risks and must go to trained therapists who maintain very proper hygienic standards.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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