You might hiss at even thinking about getting close to a snake, but applying snake venom to one’s face for a younger look is an idea whose time has come. Celebrities like Cheryl Cole and Gwyneth Paltrow give credit to this reptile’s venom for their glowing skin. Tired of botox shots followed by sleepless nights, more people are choosing snake venom therapy as it is a painless procedure and its pure protein clears lines and smoothens skin.
Seema Malhotra, chief director of Eve’s Academy, explains how facial masks or lotions containing snake venom clear lines and wrinkles. “Many people resort to botox or hydrolic acid which fills their wrinkles and provides immediate results. However, these are only temporary remedies. But now with face packs or overnight lotions available which clear fine lines, people will definitely use them.”
A common question is, can lotions and facial masks with such scary ingredients, cause allergies? Dr Bharat Chawda, cosmetologist with Apollo Hospital, explains why they won’t. “Before hitting the market, these products are tested and verified, so the chance of an extreme reaction is minimal. However, anyone can be allergic to anything.”
He also shares a quick anecdote about how a woman who had come to consult about this treatment was surprised to find that such products do not have any direct connection with the venom. “Once people hear, snake’s venom, they think the toxin has directly been infused into the product. But it is not. Only the protein from the venom is used and that acts as a very strong anti-agent.”
Seema seconds that and elaborates on how application is the new mantra. “Instead of injecting yourself with the chemicals, applying this lotion will rejuvenate your skin. The skin becomes smooth and clear. And because they are human-tested, they should not produce major side-effects.”
On the other hand, there are people like Aastha Singh, a Delhi-based make-up artiste, who think along different lines. She explains why such products might not be a hit. “Because people do not get immediate results, they might not go in for something that takes a longer period before showing changes,” she says.
As for allergies, she explains why it’s important to body-test yourself. “Anybody can have adverse reactions. But it is necessary for people to apply the creams or packs in one particular area and wait. If your body accepts it, go for it,” she adds.