Kathmandu, April 1

World Skin Day was marked across the country today by organising different programmes.

At a programme held here today by Society of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists of Nepal, free health services were provided to people suffering from skin-related problems.

“Due to increased pollution levels, most people are suffering from eczema, dryness, pigmentation and early ageing,” said Dr Shristi Shrestha, dermatologist at Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Attarkhel.

People in the country usually visit pharmacies and use medicines without doctor’s prescription. People are mostly using steroids which are used in the treatment of fungal infection and melasma only upon the doctor’s advice. As a result the skin in thinned and is reddened.

Irritation and reddening of skin occurs when someone sits under the sun. Therefore awareness of skin health problems and misuse of medication is necessary, as per the doctor.