AI application, convenient but full of risks
In recent years, many AI-based skin care applications have promoted the ability to diagnose acne, eczema, pigmentary disorders or even skin cancer from just one photo. Users just need to upload the photo and receive a response for a few seconds.
However, health experts warn that this convenience cannot replace the accuracy and safety of clinical examination. These apps can misdygnosis, causing unnecessary confusion or causing patients to delay important treatments, emphasizes Dr. Shareefa Chause, a dermatologist at Health Shots.
Common risks include:
Diagnosis deviations: A benign rash can be mistaken for a serious illness.
Lack of personalization: The application cannot consider the history of diseases, allergies or living habits of each person.
Delay treatment: Patients may miss the early intervention stage.
Increased anxiety and confusion: "Forever" diagnosis from an application easily makes users panic.
privacy concerns: Personal images are at risk of being abused or stored unsafely.
Live examination, an irreplaceable role
According to the International Journal of Women's Dermatology, dermatologists have a great advantage in combining medical knowledge, on-site examination and adjusting treatment methods for each individual.
A face-to-face consultation brings essential values:
Comprehensive examination: The doctor assesses the skin combining medical history and lifestyle.
Timely adjustment: The diagram is monitored and changed based on actual progress.
Preventing misdiagnosis: Avoid the risk of using inappropriate drugs, limit long-term complications.
Early detection of dangerous diseases: Especially skin cancer, which requires medical intervention as soon as possible.
Applications can be useful in raising awareness, but they cannot replace medical expertise. Users need to consider the results from the application as a reminder to go to the clinic, not a final diagnosis," Dr Chause recommends.
Safe skin care and principles to remember
In addition to being cautious with AI applications, experts recommend maintaining scientific skin protection habits:
Consult a dermatologist before trying a new product.
Absolutely do not believe unverified information on social networks.
Take action immediately when there are unusual signs instead of self-treating.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: eat a balanced diet, drink enough water, avoid concentrated sunshine, manage stress.
As Dr Chause concludes: A healthy skin requires a combination of science, good habits and the right medical consultation. Technology should only be a support tool, not an end point".
