What was meant to be a simple cosmetic fix turned into a traumatic ordeal for Chennai-based makeup artist V Jayanthi, who lost both her earlobes after undergoing a so-called ‘herbal procedure’ at a local beauty parlour.
The ordeal
In March 2023, Jayanthi visited Abbe Herbal Beauty Parlour in Arumbakkam, run by Akilandeshwari, seeking a natural remedy to reduce the size of her stretched ear piercings. The treatment cost Rs 2,000 but resulted in far greater physical and emotional suffering.
Shortly after applying the herbal paste, Jayanthi experienced a severe burning sensation. When she raised concerns, the staff reassured her that the reaction was normal and continued applying the mixture, wrapping her earlobes in plaster. Within days, the wounds emitted a foul odor, and weeks later, her earlobes were hanging by thin layers of tissue.
Impact on life
For Jayanthi, whose work revolves around aesthetics, the consequences extended beyond physical injury. She lost confidence in her professional life, struggled to face clients, and even her own children were unsettled by her altered appearance. Her social life and freedom to go out were severely affected.
The dangerous agent
Medical examination revealed a shocking truth. The ‘herbal mix’ contained trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a corrosive chemical commonly used in controlled medical-grade skin treatments. Improper or high-concentration use of TCA can cause severe burns, scarring, and tissue destruction — exactly what happened in Jayanthi’s case.
By August 2023, surgeons at Apollo Hospitals, Vanagaram, had to remove both earlobes to prevent infection. Although plastic surgery was suggested, the parlour refused to cover the expenses, forcing Jayanthi to seek legal recourse.
Legal outcome
After reviewing medical reports, witness statements, and a police chargesheet filed under Section 338 of the IPC (causing grievous hurt), the consumer commission ruled in Jayanthi’s favor. The commission noted that the parlour acted without authority and employed unsafe, unscientific methods. It ordered the parlour to pay Rs 5 lakh in compensation within 60 days.
A cautionary tale
Jayanthi’s case highlights the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures marketed as ‘herbal’ or ‘natural’ solutions. Experts warn that many such treatments contain chemical agents in unsafe concentrations. Any procedure promising structural changes — including reduction of ear piercings, moles, or scars — should only be performed by licensed dermatologists or certified cosmetic surgeons.
This incident serves as a stark warning to consumers to verify credentials and safety standards before undergoing cosmetic treatments.
Source: Agency