Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 19 Apr 2025
Navi Mumbai Doctor Claims Threading Procedure in a Salon Led To Hepatitis B in Three Young Women
Cases of Hepatitis B transmission have been reported following tattooing, sharing razors, “and even cosmetic procedures like threading”
Threading of the eyebrows and facial hair is a routine beauty procedure among most women. This centuries-old grooming practice is often a monthly or bi-weekly ritual and is easy to get done, affordable, and usually even considered safe. However, a recent video by a doctor has become a cause of concern.
In a viral clip, Dr. Vishal Gabale, an internal medicine specialist, has claimed that threading could potentially transmit Hepatitis B - a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, causing inflammation and potential long-term health complications—just like tattooing and sharing needles.
Dr. Gabale narrated a case where three young women—all of whom had visited the same threading salon—tested positive for the virus with matching strains. “As a doctor, this was highly unusual. It felt like a medical mystery. So, I did what doctors are trained to do: I stepped back and took a detailed history, asking them about their activities in the week before symptoms began,” he said in the video.
“That’s when the connection became clear: All three had visited the same threading salon,” Dr. Gabale added.
WHO confirms hepatitis B spreads through cosmetic procedures
According to the World Health Organisation’s 2022 bulletin, cases of Hepatitis B transmission have been reported following tattooing, sharing razors, “and even cosmetic procedures like threading.”
“We often assume threading is harmless. However, the procedure can cause micro-abrasions in the skin, and the hepatitis B virus can survive for days on tiny contaminated surfaces. You don’t even need visible blood — just one infected thread or unsterile tool, and the virus spreads quietly. So yes, something as routine as threading can carry a risk,” he said.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a life-threatening viral infection that leads to liver inflammation. In some people, it can cause cirrhosis and even liver failure. According to doctors, there is no cure for hepatitis B—but there are medications that can make the virus inactive. Inactive hepatitis B means you have the virus, which does not spread.
Hepatitis B is the most common liver infection in the world, with an estimated 254 million people living with this condition.
After how long can you become contagious with Hepatitis B?
You can become contagious as long as the virus is active in your body. Doctors say acute hepatitis B lasts for up to six months, and in this time the virus spreads all over your body. However, if you have active chronic hepatitis B, you will be contagious for the rest of your life.
If you have inactive chronic hepatitis B, the risk would be lower. Your healthcare provider can do blood tests to find out if you have an active or inactive virus.
Signs and symptoms of Hepatitis B
You can have hepatitis B without having symptoms, but when you do, they may include:
- Stomach ache
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Fever
- Joint pains
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness
- Dark-colored pee
- Light or clay-colored poop
- Swelling from fluid retained all over your body which includes arms and legs
- Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes from jaundice
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