Increase in
awareness, research and development in the field of health and scientific
beauty has led to new age career options. If science fascinates you then there
are two off beat careers which are now gaining popularity, career in stem cell
therapy and cosmetology.
STEM
CELL RESEARCH
Stem cells exist
in the body, within various tissues, and play an essential role in maintenance
of tissue homeostasis. The solution to health problems lies within us is the
broad concept of regenerative medicine and cell based therapies. "These
novel technologies aim to utilise the body's own reparative potential to
stimulate natural healing mechanisms. These cells ensure proper functioning of
organ systems and efficient replacement of damaged cells. The aim is to harness
the power of cells and molecules to find newer therapeutic avenues in treatment
of the myriad of acute and chronic health conditions that plague mankind,"
explains Dr. Pradeep Mahajan, Regenerative medicine researcher, Adigos Stem
Cells.
Academics
The basic
requirement is a graduate degree in medicine to enter the clinical domain of
regenerative medicine. One does not needed MBBS to pursue career in stem cell.
However, graduate or post-graduate candidates with life-sciences,
biotechnology, molecular biology background, etc. are also eligible to train
and work in this new field.
Skills required
depend on the domain that an individual works in. "A clinician working on
stem cell research or trials will be required to have thorough knowledge of
various health conditions along with understanding the behaviour of the stem
cells and other molecules within the human body. A biotechnology or life
sciences candidate should be familiar with and must stay updated on laboratory
techniques associated with handling of biological tissues, culture methods,
etc." states Dr. Mahajan.
Stem cell
therapy refers to introducing new adult stem cells into damaged tissue to treat
a particular type of disease. So a researcher studies embryonic stem cells,
tissue-specific stem cells, cancer stem cells, developmental studies, stem cell
genomes, etc.
Conventional
treatments are losing potency, owing to varied environmental, lifestyle and
genetic factors, in treatment of diseases. "Additionally, patients are now
well informed of the effects of pharmacological agents and surgeries. Thus,
newer non or minimally invasive therapeutic modalities such as regenerative
medicine, gene therapy, nanotechnology, tissue engineering, etc. are now
gaining popularity. Rising investment in healthcare, research and development
activities have opened up attractive career paths for individuals in these
fields," he adds.
One can find
employment opportunities at hospitals, research laboratories, pharmaceutical
companies and public health sector. "A starter from the medical field may
get a salary of Rs.6 lakh to Rs.7 lakh per annum while candidates from life
sciences or biology backgrounds may expect Rs.2 lakh to Rs.4 lakh per
annum," says Mahajan.
Challenges
"Any new
therapeutic modality is subjected to extensive research and regulatory
guidelines to ensure therapeutic care with safety and efficacy. In a developing
economy, the major challenges lie in acquiring the infrastructure and meeting
the stringent regulatory requirements. Financial resources must be considered
to ensure that the therapies are universally accessible to all strata of
society. Moreover, it is imperative to create proper awareness of such advances
amongst the masses."
Currently there
are few (but gradually increasing) courses that train a qualified individual in
regenerative medicine and cell based therapy. The potential of stem cells is
vast and it is one of the most promising areas of biomedical research.
COSMETOLOGY
Looking good
matters, looking young is the new age mantra now. There is a boom in the
cosmetic industry, and there is an ever-increasing demand for cosmetologist.
Technological advances in cosmetology are tremendous; hence it is one of the
upcoming, exciting and expanding branches of medicine.
"Cosmetology
is the art and science of beauty treatment and its application. This science
focuses on making people look good. It includes beautification by use of
cosmetics, beauty therapy and treatments for face, hair, body - using medical
grade products and overall health care," states Dr. Mohan Thomas, Senior
Cosmetic surgeon, cosmetic surgery institute.
Dermatology
and Cosmetology are different
Dermatologists
are specialists of skin ailments. Dermatology is a specialised branch which
deals with treatment of skin infections, skin cancers, pigmentation,
venereology and beauty related issues. They are Doctors with MD or Diploma in
skin diseases. Cosmetology experts on the other hand deal with makeup, skin
care and beauty products. They provide beauty services that include cosmetic
care for hair, skin and body. In short a dermatologist can function as a
cosmetologist but a cosmetologist cannot function as a dermatologist.
MBBS is usually
required for a cosmetologist. As it helps in attaining detailed knowledge about
the products, allergies their treatment, address adverse reactions and treat
bad outcomes. This degree is usually associated with training in cosmetic
procedures like peels, lasers, hair treatment, facials, etc.
Technicians do
not hold a MBBS degree, they take certificate courses after their 12th
standard. Some specialise in laser treatments to become laser technicians, some
in cosmetic products and facials - to work as skin therapists and others in
hair related field. Many polytechnics and vocational institutes offer courses
in beauty care or cosmetology.
Skills
needed
People rely on
the skills of a cosmetologist to make them look their best. So, a
cosmetologists have to be educated, stylish and creative so that they can
advise them accordingly. Technical training from a reputable institute is
needed and one should remain updated for the latest in the field. They should
have the dexterity to use the technology and make coordinated hand movements
along with the stamina to stand during the procedures for long periods.
Scope
and areas of employment
The scope and
career possibility in the industry of beauty is endless. An aspiring
cosmetologist has diverse and plenty of choices. "Trained dermatologists
who run a cosmetic centre provide the complete range of non-surgical skin and
beauty treatments. They are assisted by trained cosmetologists (with MBBS or
BAMS degree). Trained cosmetologists find well paid jobs in beauty parlors,
high-end salons and luxurious hotels or resorts. Makeup professionals are
always in demand in television film and fashion industries. Other options
include - image consultants, writing blogs and teaching at beauty centres,"
adds Dr. Thomas.
Source: THE TIMES OF INDIA-19th December,2017
