Chinese Woman’s “Magic” Cream Causes Snake-Skin Reaction
A Chinese woman develops snake skin after using what she believed was a “pure traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)” cream for a decade. The shocking case has raised national concern about the dangers of unregulated skincare products in China. Medical experts later discovered that the so-called herbal ointment likely contained hidden steroids, causing severe skin and hormonal damage over time.
From Simple Rash to Severe Skin Disorder
The patient, a 40-year-old woman known as Tingting, first developed a mild rash and itching on her leg about ten years ago. Instead of visiting a dermatologist, she searched online for a natural remedy and came across a cream marketed as a “miracle cure made from pure TCM ingredients.” The product is claimed to be herbal, steroid-free, and effective for all skin problems.
At first, the cream seemed to work; the itching stopped, and the rash faded quickly. Convinced she had found a safe solution, Tingting continued to use the ointment daily. Over the next ten years, she reportedly spent more than 100,000 yuan (around £11,000) purchasing the same product.
Alarming Symptoms Emerge Over the Years
Gradually, Tingting’s skin began to change. She noticed it becoming fragile and discoloured, eventually developing purple-red streaks that looked like snake-like patterns across her arms, legs, and torso. Despite these disturbing changes, she continued applying the cream, believing it was still helping her condition.
In time, other serious symptoms appeared, including swelling of her limbs, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and numbness in her hands. When the situation became unbearable, she sought medical help at Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University in Nanjing.
Doctors Discover Hidden Steroids Behind “Herbal” Label
At the hospital, dermatologists found Tingting’s entire body covered in cracked, snake-scale-like marks. Blood tests revealed abnormally low cortisol levels, a key hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Chief dermatologist Dr. Wang Fei diagnosed her with secondary adrenocortical insufficiency, a condition where the adrenal glands stop functioning properly due to prolonged exposure to external steroids.
These steroids can reduce inflammation and itching quickly, which makes users believe the product is working. However, when used for years, steroids are absorbed through the skin and can suppress the body’s natural hormone production, leading to dangerous complications like Tingting’s.
“Natural” Doesn’t Always Mean Safe
The case of the Chinese woman who developed snake skin has reignited debate in China about the safety of unregulated TCM skincare products. Many creams sold online under the label “pure TCM” or “herbal” are not approved by medical authorities. In reality, they may contain undisclosed pharmaceutical ingredients like potent steroids.
Experts warn that such hidden substances can cause lasting harm, including skin thinning, stretch marks, broken blood vessels, and hormonal imbalance. The damage can take months or even years to reverse, even with proper medical treatment.
Public Outrage and Calls for Stricter Oversight
After Tingting’s story was reported by Chinese media, it went viral on social platforms such as Weibo and Douyin. Thousands of users expressed shock and anger, criticising sellers who take advantage of public trust in traditional medicine.
Doctors and health authorities have since urged the government to tighten regulations on skincare and TCM-based products, particularly those sold online. Experts also emphasise the need for stronger public awareness that “natural” or “traditional” labels do not guarantee safety.
Conclusion
Steroid-based creams should never be used without medical supervision. Even though they relieve symptoms quickly, unsupervised long-term use can lead to serious hormonal and systemic damage.
Consumers are advised to:
- Buy medical or skincare products only from licensed pharmacies or hospitals.
- Avoid any cream claiming to “cure all skin problems” or offering “instant results.”
- Consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis before applying any topical treatment.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 10 November 2025
- 13:00
