Tender Skin & Hair Clinic (Khar West) - Dermatologist, Trichologist in Mumbai

This was one of the strangest experiences I have had at a doctor’s clinic. I had booked an appointment with Dr. Sonia for 6PM. I reached the clinic a couple of minutes after the hour, around 6:02–6:03...

This was one of the strangest experiences I have had at a doctor’s clinic. I had booked an appointment with Dr. Sonia for 6PM. I reached the clinic a couple of minutes after the hour, around 6:02–6:03PM, and completed the check-in process with the receptionist. Their own log recorded my entry as 6:05PM. On arrival, the receptionist informed me that the doctor was still with another patient and that I was next in line, so I waited patiently. That consultation stretched on for nearly 40 minutes, which I did not mind at first, since I assumed I would be seen next. When the patient finally stepped out, to my surprise, the receptionist allowed another person to go in — someone who had a 6:30 PM slot. When I questioned this, I was told that because my check-in was recorded as 6:05 PM, I had been “penalised” for being five minutes late, and the other patient had arrived on time. I found this explanation unreasonable. A 2-5min difference is not typically treated as being late, especially when the doctor herself was running behind with the prior patient.At this point, I was clearly frustrated. After I raised the issue, the receptionist assured me I would be next, but I still had to wait another 20 minutes. Later, the receptionist admitted there had been a mistake and that I should have been seen earlier. When I finally entered the doctor’s room, Dr. Sonia told me that the patient taken before me was a fellow doctor and, in their profession, they do not make another colleague wait. While I understand courtesy among professionals, it was odd to prioritise that over scheduled appointments. When I tried to say something further, the doctor cut me off and with a cold smile repeated “I’m sorry” several times in a way that felt more like a tactic to cut the conversation short rather than genuinely addressing my concern. At that point, I just wanted to finish my consultation. I had booked the appointment for acne. The doctor did ask the right questions — about lifestyle, possible PCOS symptoms, and general health before diagnosing me with Grade 1 acne. What came next, however, was unusual. Instead of prescribing a standard medical treatment, I was advised to take Vitamin A tablets (without any testing for deficiency), use a serum containing niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, mandelic acid, and azelaic acid, and replace my current cleanser and moisturizer with new branded ones. When I asked why my existing Cetaphil products (which have never worsened my acne) needed changing, I was simply told, “Since they’re not working, I’m changing them,” with no further reasoning. When I referred to the list as “medications,” the doctor even clarified that these were not medicines. That left me confused as to whether I was being given treatment or just cosmetic suggestions. The doctor also brought up aesthetic procedures, specifically an aqua facial, saying it could help with hydration and acne. She did not push it when I declined, but it made me feel like the consultation was leaning toward cosmetic upselling rather than medical care. At the reception afterward, I was offered all the products prescribed by the doctor, priced in the range of ₹800–₹1,500 each. To the clinic’s credit, they did not force me to buy, but it was now obvious why such specific brands had been written down. I declined the products. The receptionist then told me that the consultation fee was ₹2,000 but, due to the earlier scheduling confusion, I only needed to pay ₹1,500. In passing, they also mentioned that I had missed out on an additional discount since I had not purchased the recommended products. This reinforced my impression that product sales were tied closely to the practice. To confirm, I later consulted a dermatologist at a hospital. That doctor reassured me that my existing non-comedogenic products were perfectly fine. Instead, I was prescribed a straightforward medical regimen of a topical retinoid and clindamycin for Grade 1 acne, which I purchased at a pharmacy for only ₹240.

I recently visited the Tender skin international for hair consulation. My experience was great. From the moment I stepped in , they made me feel very comfortable. The specialist, Ms. Pooja was extreme...

I recently visited the Tender skin international for hair consulation.
My experience was great.
From the moment I stepped in , they made me feel very comfortable.
The specialist, Ms. Pooja was extremely polite and thoroughly took me through the whole process from explaining the root cause of my hair damage to the treatment and after care.
Highly recommended!!!!

I’m truly thrilled with my choice of this clinic. I have very sensitive skin, and I never go anywhere unless I’m confident the team is professional. Here, I felt completely safe and well taken care of...

I’m truly thrilled with my choice of this clinic. I have very sensitive skin, and I never go anywhere unless I’m confident the team is professional. Here, I felt completely safe and well taken care of. Highly recommended!

"Tender Skin Clinic truly lives up to its name! The staff is warm, welcoming, and genuinely cares about your skin concerns. The treatments are top-notch, and the results are amazing. I've seen a signi...

"Tender Skin Clinic truly lives up to its name! The staff is warm, welcoming, and genuinely cares about your skin concerns. The treatments are top-notch, and the results are amazing. I've seen a significant improvement in my skin texture and tone since I started visiting them. Highly recommend Tender Skin Clinic for all your skin care needs!"
"Dr. Mariya is an exceptional dermatologist with a gentle touch and caring approach. Her expertise and personalized attention have transformed my skin, leaving it looking healthier and more radiant than ever. I'm grateful for her professionalism and dedication to her patients. Highly recommend Dr. Mariya for all your skin concerns!"

I had a great experience here. The doctors are knowledgeable and clearly know what they’re doing — they took the time to understand my concerns and provided the right treatment. The hospitality was im...

I had a great experience here. The doctors are knowledgeable and clearly know what they’re doing — they took the time to understand my concerns and provided the right treatment. The hospitality was impressive, and the staff was polite, helpful, and well-organized throughout my visit. Overall, the experience was smooth and comforting. Highly recommend this clinic for anyone looking for professional and reliable skincare solutions.