Hair growth scam busted in Hyderabad, influencer Harish held

Hyderabad: An Instagram influencer was arrested by the Uppal police after multiple complaints surfaced regarding allergic reactions to his product which claimed a cure for baldness.

The accused has been identified as Harish, a native of Rajanayak thanda in Suryapet district. He used social media platforms to widely advertise and promote his product claiming that his hair growth oil and shampoo would help in growing the hair back on bald heads. He had also made a dedicated mobile app to sell his products.

Following the widespread advertisements, potential customers turned up in large numbers at the given location at Uppal Bhagayath.

As the crowd swelled, the hair loss reversal medicine camp attracted the attention of locals who complained to the police. Following a complaint, the Uppal police arrived at the location and detained the organiser Harish and began questioning him.

Earlier this month, a barber-cum-social media influencer from Delhi, Wakil Salmani went into hiding after his customers complained of developing rashes on their head after applying the lotion given by him. They had to visit a hospital for treatment.

Wakil, who was working at Big Boss salon at Fateh Darwaza road in the old city, would promote his ‘medicine for baldness’ through Instagram and Facebook. As his posts went viral, people started visiting his shop hoping to reverse their hair loss. He would shave the head for Rs. 100 and apply the lotion for free.

Baldness Cure Scam Busted in Uppal: Influencer Arrested

Uppal police arrested Instagram influencer Harish from Suryapet, who falsely promised hair regrowth cures. Hundreds gathered at Uppal Bhagayat on April 23, each paying ₹1,000 for "miracle" oil and shampoo. A special app… pic.twitter.com/HmQxOMdh0k

— Hyderabad Mail (@Hyderabad_Mail) April 27, 2025