Dermatologist from Hiroshima Heads to Gifu: Hosting a Free Skincare Seminar for Citizens

With consultations regarding cosmetic medical services surging by roughly three times over a four-year period, there is a growing demand for correct skincare knowledge. In response to this situation, Dr. Kyomi Mihara, a dermatologist and Doctor of Medicine (Director of Mihara Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Clinic), will host a free skincare seminar for citizens in Gifu City on Thursday, June 18. Driven by the desire to 'deliver correct knowledge in an easy-to-understand manner as a dermatologist', Dr. Mihara has been conducting lectures for citizens and corporations nationwide. The event in Gifu is organized by ITreat Inc., a local IT company based in Gifu City.

■ Acquire Correct Evidence-Based Knowledge
Skincare Seminar by a Dermatologist

In this seminar, the causes behind daily skincare troubles will be explained from a dermatological perspective, delivering practical knowledge for daily life such as face washing, moisturizing, and UV protection in an easy-to-understand 60-minute session. Emphasizing the translation of specialized content into accessible language for the general public, the seminar aims to serve as an opportunity to transform 'haphazard skincare into evidence-based habits.' In the second half, a Q&A session is scheduled, allowing participants to consult directly with the specialist regarding their daily skin concerns.

The humidity of the rainy season and the UV rays and high temperatures of summer easily trigger skin troubles, making this an excellent opportunity to acquire correct care knowledge and preventive measures before summer arrives in full force.

'If you correctly understand how the skin works, you will naturally acquire the discernment to identify products that do not suit you, as well as the judgment to avoid being swayed by cosmetic medical solicitations. Right now, before the rainy season, is the perfect time to learn about proper care,' emphasizes Dr. Mihara.

■ Surging Skin Troubles: Both in Cosmetic Medicine and Cosmetics

Consultations concerning cosmetic medical services have swollen approximately threefold over four years, from 1,862 cases in 2019 to 5,507 cases in 2023. Additionally, complaints regarding harm from cosmetics remain at a high level, exceeding 3,000 cases annually.

[Trend of Consultation Cases for Cosmetic Medical Services]

Year (Calendar Year)
Cosmetic Medicine
Other Medical
2019: 1,862 cases / 4,104 cases
2021: 2,602 cases / 4,019 cases
2023: 5,507 cases / 4,026 cases

Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Report of the 'Review Committee on the Appropriate Implementation of Cosmetic Medicine' (2024)
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10801000/001341000.pdf

[Trend of Consultation Cases for Harm from Cosmetics]

Fiscal Year / Number of Cases / Remarks
FY2022: 4,318 cases / -
FY2023: 3,319 cases / -
FY2024: 2,986 cases / -
FY2025: 293 cases / 407 cases in the same period previous year
*As of May 31, 2025. Excluding routed consultations. (Includes hair cosmetics, toothpaste, etc.)

Source: National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan, PIO-NET Registration Data
https://www.kokusen.go.jp/soudan_topics/data/cosmetic_harm.html

[Examples of Consultations on Cosmetic Medicine (from the MHLW Review Committee Report)]

- 'I was supposed to have wrinkles removed, but I was left with facial paralysis.'
- 'My eyelids drooped after a Botox injection.'
- 'I saw an SNS advertisement, underwent treatment, and experienced troubles.'

In 2024, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare published the report of the 'Review Committee on the Appropriate Implementation of Cosmetic Medicine.' The ministry is proceeding with institutional development, such as strengthening online patrols of medical advertising and introducing a periodic reporting system for medical institutions.

[Examples of Consultations on Harm from Cosmetics (from the National Consumer Affairs Center)]

- Purchased cosmetics intended as a trial and experienced itching and tingling. Realized it was a subscription and requested cancellation, but was billed a high amount.
- Used a foundation from an SNS ad, resulting in facial redness and itching. Submitted a medical certificate to apply for cancellation but found the billed amount unacceptably high.
- Used an imported lip balm, resulting in swollen, itchy, and sore lips.

There is a common structure to troubles in both cosmetic medicine and cosmetics. It is the act of making judgments based solely on advertising or SNS information without properly understanding one's own skin condition or product characteristics. As pointed out by the MHLW Review Committee, the root of the problem lies in the fact that 'patients do not correctly understand the characteristics and risks of cosmetic medicine.' Cases where even mild rough skin, acne, or dark spots become chronic or worsen due to incorrect self-care are endless. Having the correct knowledge is the greatest preventive measure to avoid troubles.

■ Event Details

Date & Time
Thursday, June 18, 2026, 14:00 - 15:00

Venue
Yanagase Grassle 35 Ugokute Sukoyaka Exchange Room 1 & 2
2-18 Tetsumeidori, Gifu City, 500-8879

Target Audience
General public, capacity 40-50 people (open to anyone)

Participation Fee
Free (Advance registration required)

Application
https://questant.jp/q/7VGV1GUT Application deadline: Friday, June 5, 2026
*In case of many applicants, participation will be decided by lottery.

Media Coverage
Media coverage on the day is welcome. Exclusive interviews and par