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Unlock Flawless Skin

Bananas are packed with nutrients that can nourish the skin and improve its elasticity. Mash a ripe banana and mix it with a teaspoon of honey to create a skin-tightening face pack. Apply this mixture to your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then wash off with water…reports Asian Lite News

Achieving flawless skin is a common goal for everyone, and one aspect of this goal is skin tightening. Natural face packs can be a great way to tighten the skin and improve its overall health and appearance. Dr. Neha Khuraana, MD, a Board-certified Dermatologist shares six effective skin-tightening face packs to achieve that dreamy flawless skin.

Egg White Face Pack

Egg whites are rich in proteins that can help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. To make this face pack, simply whisk an egg white until it becomes frothy, apply it to your face, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Banana Face Pack

Bananas are packed with nutrients that can nourish the skin and improve its elasticity. Mash a ripe banana and mix it with a teaspoon of honey to create a skin-tightening face pack. Apply this mixture to your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then wash off with water.

Cucumber Face Pack

Cucumbers have a cooling effect on the skin and can help tighten pores. Blend a cucumber into a smooth paste and mix it with a tablespoon of yoghurt. Apply this pack to your face. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse off with cold water for refreshed and tightened skin.

Aloe Vera Face Pack

Aloe vera is known for its skin-tightening and hydrating properties. Take out some fresh aloe vera gel using a spoon/knife and apply it directly to your face. Leave it on for 15-30 minutes before washing off with water. Regular use can help improve skin elasticity and firmness.

Papaya Face Pack

Papaya contains enzymes that can help tighten the skin and promote a youthful glow. Mash a ripe papaya and mix it with a teaspoon of honey to create a skin-tightening face pack. Apply this mixture to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Gram Flour Face Pack

Gram flour, also known as besan, has skin-tightening and exfoliating properties. Mix gram flour with rose water or yoghurt to form a paste. Apply this pack to your face, let it dry for 15-20 minutes, and then gently scrub off while rinsing with water for tightened and glowing skin.

Incorporating these natural skin tightening face packs into your skincare routine can help you achieve a firmer, more youthful complexion. Remember to patch test any new ingredients to ensure they suit your skin type, and enjoy the benefits of these simple yet effective treatments for flawless skin.

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Ethical Alternatives in the World of Skincare

Mother Earth’s botanical treasures are abundant with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory wonders, and an array of therapeutic virtues. Their enchanting magic lavishes your skin with tender care, addressing common concerns and igniting a transformation from within…writes Rajath Mathur

In today’s vibrant, ever-growing beauty industry, our choices as consumers are vital to transforming our well-being and the world around us. However, when it comes to animal welfare and cosmetics, the fight for cruelty-free beauty in India continues to be a complex and evolving journey. As consumers become increasingly conscious of the planet’s well-being and seek cruelty-free products, the need for a complete ban on animal testing is on the rise. Beauty and skincare brands have taken the lead in this area and are now espousing cruelty-free products.

A Brief History of Cruelty-Free Beauty

The movement towards cruelty-free beauty has been nothing short of remarkable- it is seen by many as a turning point in the beauty cosmos where compassion meets innovation.A glance at the past reveals that the UK led the way in 1998 by becoming the first country to ban cosmetic animal testing. This milestone was achieved thanks to the relentless efforts of various advocates, including passionate campaigners from the beauty industry.

India took a significant step forward in 2014 by banning cosmetics testing on animals. This milestone decision was a crucial recognition of the need to prioritise animal welfare and embrace more ethical practices in the beauty industry. One key area of progress in India is consumers’ growing awareness and demand for cruelty-free beauty products.

People are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact their choices have on animals and the environment. This shift in mindset has led to the rise of cruelty-free beauty brands and the availability of a broader range of ethical alternatives in the market. Brands like The Body Shop have emerged as trailblazers, championing the cause and sparking a revolution that paves the way for a kinder and more ethical beauty industry.

The alternatives to cruelty-free beauty:

 Naturally sourced products as an alternative

Mother Earth’s botanical treasures are abundant with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory wonders, and an array of therapeutic virtues. Their enchanting magic lavishes your skin with tender care, addressing common concerns and igniting a transformation from within.

And there lies a botanical marvel that rivals the potency of retinol – the Edelweiss flower. Nestled high in the pristine alpine meadows, this exquisite blossom possesses a delicate strength, unlocking the secrets to radiant skin.

Bursting with natural antioxidants and powerful rejuvenating properties, Edelweiss presents a gentle alternative to retinol, delivering remarkable results without any potential side effects. This extraordinary flower stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity, unveiling a rejuvenated luminosity. The seemingly humble wonder is the definition of flower power, protecting your skin against environmental aggressors and pollution, ensuring radiance always.

Ethically sourced products pave the way for balanced beauty

Step into a world where beauty meets conscience. Ethically sourced beauty products invite you to embark on a journey of mindful self-care. Imagine the thrill of indulging in luxurious textures and captivating fragrances, knowing that every ingredient has been carefully selected with integrity and respect. It’s a beauty experience that transcends vanity and embraces a higher purpose – one that values sustainability, fair trade, and cruelty-free practices. With every application, you also contribute to a global movement of ethical beauty.

Environmental Sustainability is imperative

Choosing natural alternatives goes beyond personal beauty – it becomes a powerful statement of your commitment to environmental sustainability. Bid farewell to harmful chemicals and synthetic additives that harm our precious ecosystems. By embracing the power of eco-conscious choices, you become an Earth ally, supporting sustainable farming practices and safeguarding biodiversity. You contribute to preserving our planet’s delicate balance with every beauty decision. Beauty should thrive without compromising Mother Nature.

Bottomline – Ethical Beauty is the way forward

Ethical beauty goes beyond skin-deep. It is a reflection of your values and a testament to your commitment to making a difference. By embracing cruelty-free and natural alternatives, you stand alongside compassionate brands that prioritise the well-being of animals. Together, we can create a kinder and more sustainable beauty industry where no creature suffers for our pursuit of beauty. Let your heart guide your beauty choices, and empower yourself to make a positive impact with every purchase. Join the movement towards ethical beauty – it’s a journey that transforms your skin and the world we live in.

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Skincare during pregnancy

Such dynamic skin conditions are an obvious fact during and after pregnancy, but here is the good news – these dire skin conditions can be taken care of…reports Asian Lite News

Motherhood is a time of immense joy and excitement, the duration of pregnancy gifts radiant skin and voluminous hair to the would-be mothers, along with the little bundle of joy.

The sudden boost of estrogen is the basic science behind all the glow. However, right after the pregnancy hormones cease to flow and the postpartum tiredness starts showing up on the face.

Pregnancy comes will loads of immeasurable goodness, but it also has its own share of challenges, and some of those get reflected on the new mom’s skin too. Experiencing patchy, dry, and sensitive skin is a grave problem that new moms often face. Such dynamic skin conditions are an obvious fact during and after pregnancy, but here is the good news – these dire skin conditions can be taken care of. 

“A new mother’s body reannotates itself after the little human is out of the safe haven. The post-partum skin goes through a lot of stress at this point. It gets stretched to the extent that sagging and stretch marks are a normal visual. During this entire revamp session of the bodies, new mothers’ emotions and their skins pay for the stress going inside. Pregnant skin can even develop darker skin pigmentation or melasma, and pimple breakouts, and postpartum skin gets loose and patchy, making it appear aged. In fact, this stage can be dupped as the onset of aging skin signs. And with so much on the plate already taking care of our skin is an impossible task,” says Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra, Director and Chief Dermatologist at Alive Wellness Clinics

According to research potions like hyaluronic acid can move the magic wand, such as Profhilo does, but who would take an added responsibility for scouting the same? Is it safe during the breastfeeding period? Dr. Chiranjiv answers all your questions…

What is unsafe skincare during postpartum? 

Dr. Chiranjiv: The postpartum period is a reconstruction period of the body. One should take note that along with the possible effects on the mother, how is the baby affected? Almost all the skincare products available in the market are perfectly safe to use, specifically all topical skincare products. Although, for popping supplements strict discretion is mandatory from the dermatologist and your physician. Apart from these, new mothers should avoid salicylic acid, Tretinoin and Tazarotene, Topical corticosteroids, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), Parabens, Phthalates and Retinoids (Not the oral Vitamin A form). 

How to look radiant during postpartum?

Dr. Chiranjiv: The basic grammar of skincare remains the same, however, aesthetic treatments like a combination of ultra-pure hyaluronic acid and bio-remodeling treatment is a match made in heaven (metaphorically), works on wrinkles, lines, dark under-eye patches, pigmentation, and other signs of aging skin.

Profhilo contains high concentrations of pure hyaluronic acid and does not include any chemical agents. One of the greatest things about hyaluronic acid is that it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It’s a gentle, non-irritating ingredient that works by attracting water molecules to the skin, helping to lock in hydration and prevent moisture loss. This can be especially beneficial for new moms who may be experiencing dryness or dehydration due to hormonal changes and the demands of caring for a newborn.

How to boost the Collagen game?

Dr. Chiranjiv: Collagen is a protein naturally found in human bodies. This protein is responsible for forming our ligaments, fat, and skin. Collagen is responsible for the youthful suppleness of the skin, but with growing age collagen production falls. It is worse during breastfeeding, the mother’s body starts feeling the unavailability of collagen, resulting in dry and pliable skin. Adding collagen treatment to your postpartum skincare routine will regenerate new skin cells so that the skin’s ability to stretch is increased and it can gain its suppleness back. 

Is probiotics healthy for the gut and glowing skin?

Dr. Chiranjiv: Research proves that our gut is the second brain. Even our healthy skin is a boon from a balanced and healthy gut. Disharmony in the gut can result in itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. 

Add a dose of skin-boosting probiotic to your postpartum skincare that will help to cure your digestive issues and inner health, thus radiating outside. 

How to beat skin dryness?

Dr. Chiranjiv: Both pregnancy and postpartum periods come with one of the most terrible skin conditions, constant itching. Your skin goes through an age of stretching and again trying to squeeze back (hopelessly) to its original form and the rise of progesterone in the body adds to the woe. All these result in constant itching, to the extent that mothers bruise themselves while trying to comfort themselves by itching. Butter-based moisturisers act as a messiah in these tough times while adding to the much-needed hydration and cooling effect to the skin. 

If you are determined to ace the postpartum skincare and get the pregnancy radiance back, then consider incorporating the above-mentioned tips. 

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Vampire face lift for those with acne scarring

The vampire facial is advised for individuals with acne scarring and open pores. Over some sessions, there is a dramatic reduction of acne scarring noted…Dr. Akanksha Sanghvi speaks with Lothungbeni Humstsoe

A vampire facial also known as Vampire Facelift, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Facial, micro-needling with PRP is a skin treatment that involves using growth factors and platelets from your blood to stimulate collagen and promote skin repair as a response to the body’s natural healing process. The platelets tend to promote epidermal tissue replacement and due to their regenerative properties promote collagen and elastin formation

Dr. Akanksha Sanghvi, Aesthetic Dermatologist and Founder of Oprava Aesthetics discusses the popular plasma skincare therapy with IANSlife. Continue reading to learn more about the Vampire facial.

What is expected during a session of Vampire Facial? 

The treatment procedure involves multiple steps. The first step is to take your blood sample like a simple blood test in specialized sterile tubes, all it feels like is a routine blood test. The tubes are now processed in a special equipment called the centrifuge, which rotates at a fixed RPM for a fixed amount of time that helps separate the red blood cells from the plasma in the blood. While your plasma is being processed, a numbing cream is applied on your skin, to ensure your comfort during the treatment. 

After the spinning process, there are layers formed in the tube from which another process is attempted to derive the platelet-rich solution. The sampling process ends with plasma rich in platelets and growth factors that are extracted into syringes to begin the vampire facial. After cleansing and prepping the skin, the plasma is infused into the skin using various techniques: micro-injections, micro-needling devices, derma-rollers, or microneedle bottles. 

Transform Your Home Into a Spa for Mother’s Day.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Who can do Vampire Facial? 

The vampire facial is advised for individuals with acne scarring and open pores. Over some sessions, there is a dramatic reduction of acne scarring noted. The vampire facial is the best way to start fighting early signs of aging and can be done around the age of 30 to prevent fine lines. 

Vampire facial helps individuals look for a dewy texture. The reduction in open pores and improvement in skin elasticity makes the skin smooth and luminous. Vampire Facial helps increase the firmness of the skin due to collagen stimulation and improves skin hydration as well. 

How long does the entire process take?

It takes about 60-75 minutes for your session of a vampire facial. 

What is expected after the session? 

Following the procedure, the skin looks pink to red, which continues to settle over the next 24-48 hours. There can be pin-point bleeding and slight bruising which is temporary and subsides over 3-4 days. The overall time taken for your skin to heal after your vampire facial session is 5-7 days. 

The skin heals with a nice dewy glow with minimized pores and improvement of acne scars. There is a dramatic improvement in skin texture with a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

How soon can the results be appreciated?

The results of the vampire facial are seen from the first session itself. After the first week of your session, after the skin heals itself, it starts to look brighter and tighter. 

What are the benefits of HIFU?

It minimises acne and scarring, opens pores, and improves skin laxity, photoaging, and texture. It also improves the appearance of surgical scars by promoting skin hydration, stimulating collagen formation, and treating skin discolouration.

How often can one do Vampire Facial?

Vampire Facial can be done once in 4-8 weeks depending on the skin indication and age of the patient. Usually, it is recommended to do your first 3 sessions, 1 month apart. 

What is the science behind Vampire Facial or PRP? 

Regenerative medicine is an interesting science that uses the regeneration of biological tissues using cells from one’s own body. In the Aesthetic industry, the use of platelets and growth factors from one’s blood has successfully helped in wound healing, collagen stimulation, antiaging, scar tissue revision, acne scar treatments, and hair regeneration. The process ensures a sterile, platelet-rich, and growth factors-rich solution that helps promote the survival, formation, division, and maturation of cells in the body as well as helps in the repair and healing mechanisms required for their existence. 

The process of Vampire facial involves using these growth factors, and platelets to regenerate collagen and elastin by stimulating skin’s natural healing mechanisms. The result is naturally stimulated anti-inflammatory and revitalizing mechanisms that occur at molecular and cellular levels in the skin.

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Sunscreen and skincare

Doctor Aparna Santhanam adds, “it is equally necessary to remember to reapply Sunscreen regularly throughout the day, especially if you’re outdoors for swimming, hiking, playing, etc. You should apply Sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two to three hours”…reports Asian Lite News

Over the past couple of years, the importance of Sunscreen as a skincare essential has gained immense popularity. The sudden hype around Sunscreen is attributed to the growing awareness of the effects of UV rays on the skin through the emergence of scientific research and increasing cases of skin cancer. As we approach the summer season, when the UV rays get more robust, we must protect our skin from sunburns, premature ageing, and other skin damage.

Sunscreen is a product that helps protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays which are imperceptible to the naked eye. Doctor Aparna Santhanam, Dermafique Skin Expert said, “Sunscreen is a must-have product for everyone, regardless of skin type or tone. It is critical to use a full-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to guard against UVA,UVB rays, infrared rays and visible light. Sunscreen must be a part of your daily skincare routine, even when it is cloudy outside.”

UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin’s layers than UVB rays, leading to premature skin ageing, including the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. This occurs because UV rays attack collagen and elastin, two proteins required for skin elasticity and firmness. Since UVA, UVB, infrared rays  can cause skin damage, applying a sunscreen that offers full-spectrum protection is necessary.

What causes warts and how to get rid of them?.(Photo credit:IANSLIFE)

Doctor Aparna Santhanam adds, “it is equally necessary to remember to reapply Sunscreen regularly throughout the day, especially if you’re outdoors for swimming, hiking, playing, etc. You should apply Sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two to three hours”.

Moreover, the beauty industry has also recognized the importance of Sunscreen and incorporated it into their products. Many makeup products, including foundations, BB creams, and tinted moisturizers, now contain SPF, making it easier for people to protect their skin from the sun while applying makeup.

Given the variety of available options, choosing the right Sunscreen can be overwhelming. When selecting a sunscreen, it is essential to look at the Sun Protection Factor (or SPF), which measures a sunscreen’s ability to protect against UVB rays. A sunscreen that has an SPF of atleats 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks back 98%. Ultimately, consider the texture and feel of the Sunscreen, and choose the one that works well with your skin type. Sunscreens are now available in various textures, formulas, and SPF levels, making it easier for everyone to pick.Opt for sunscreens which are lightweight and non-sticky, to suit the hot & humid Indian summers.

In addition, choose sunscreens that are dermatologically tested according to your regional skin and weather concerns because skin types differ across regions due to internal and external environmental factors. With these tips, you can enjoy the summer sun while keeping your skin safe.

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Teenage skincare: Stay away from toxic chemicals

During the daytime, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Look for an oil-free and non-comedogenic product…reports Asian Lite News

Having a solid skincare routine is important at any age, but it is especially vital for teenagers who are dealing with hormonal changes and the stress of school and social life. When building your skincare routine, start with the basics: Cleanse, Nourish, and Protect (CNP) the ever-changing, sensitive skin of teens. The aim is to cleanse away dirt gently, nourish the skin with a good moisturizer, and protect the skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen.

“My mission is to empower teenagers to prioritize self-care through simple yet effective skincare. By using our clean and natural formulations, we hope to inspire confidence and promote healthy, glowing skin. Remember to be consistent, patient, and use the right products to achieve the best results,” says Sanjana Raghu Amberkar, Co-Founder of PHASES Skincare.

If you’re a teen looking to establish a skincare routine, here are some tips on how to build a daily routine and what products to use:

Cleanse: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser every morning and night. Look for a product that is formulated for your skin type (oily, dry, combination) and is free of harsh chemicals and fragrances.

Nourish: After cleansing, apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for a product that is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), and contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin

Protect: During the daytime, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Look for an oil-free and non-comedogenic product.

Read the ingredient list and be informed about what you are applying to your skin because anything and everything you apply to your skin will be absorbed into it. Stay away from products containing artificial fragrances, toxic chemicals, and products not meant for teenagers.

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Newgen skincare trends

Microdosing was a huge skincare trend in 2022, which basically, consisted of using small amounts of actives to prevent irritation and redness…reports Asian Lite News

We are all getting ready to witness a new spurt of skincare trends in this new year, though, as consistent innovation and meeting consumer demands are ruling the skincare sector.

While continuing the legacy of the “Skinification” of beauty, 2023 will introduce a new skincare approach with more diverse knowledge and dynamic trends in beauty and skincare.

Get prepped for the top skincare trends of 2023 by taking a look at the skin’s future and reading the experts’ roundup from SUGAR Cosmetics and Quench Botanics.

Microbiome Skincare

The skincare world’s focus on advocating a healthy skin microbiome continues this year too. But what is microbiome skincare, the new skincare trend of 2023? Microbiomes are basically a group of microorganisms that are already present in the skin working for the skin.

Biome-based skincare helps in flourishing the good bacteria and preventing bad bacteria from taking over. Microbiome skincare consists of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics that support your skin’s immunity to perform at its best ability. This year skin will focus more on rewilding with pH-balancing formulas, bacteria-boosting ingredients, and skincare products that create a barrier to protect the skin against harmful radicals.

4 must-have skincare ingredients for a perfect winter glow.(photo:IANSLIFE)

A “Skin Kindness” Approach

The biggest skincare industry trend that has always been in the spotlight and will be in the future is-skin kindness. Raise your hands if you’ve tried triple cleansing with exfoliating scrubs, and peel-off masks to tackle common gripes of hyperpigmentation but end up with breakouts and some irritation. The upcoming skincare trend of 2023 is all about using less aggressive and more nurturing skincare products and ingredients and aligning more toward skin barrier health. This year, reduce the complexity of your skincare routine and avoid using heavy products that may be feckless at times. Instead, show your skin some kindness.

Fermented Skincare

Although fermented skincare products aren’t new in the beauty industry, no doubt they’ll be the biggest Korean skincare trend of 2023. A number of brands are focusing on products that harness the goodness of fermented ingredients to create skin-boosting barriers and a healthy microbiome system. This process improves the efficacy of active ingredients blended together in a formula. While the process of fermentation is quite old, it’s hitting the streets of mainstream skincare with ultimate benefits and more potent fermented ingredients.

Indulge In Antioxidant-Rich Skincare

You’ve probably heard of free radicals – the bad guys. They are little particles that can wreak havoc on your skin. They break down collagen and elastin, making skin sag and wrinkle. With rising awareness about these repercussions of free radicals and sun damage, vitamins C and E have become popular antioxidant skincare ingredients – and here to stay! SUGAR Cosmetics’ Citrus Got Real Skincare range is power packed with the antioxidant properties of vitamin C, which works wonders to even out skin tone and brighten your overall complexion, leaving you with a vibrant glow. Moreover, apart from being touted as the best anti-aging ingredient, vitamin C boosts collagen production, prevents premature aging, and protects against environmental stressors.

Micro-treatments

Microdosing was a huge skincare trend in 2022, which basically, consisted of using small amounts of actives to prevent irritation and redness. Similarly, this year, micro-treatments will take up the headlines with their mini facials and quick-fix tips. The 2023 moto is definitely ‘Use less but the best’. Incorporating budget-friendly skincare treatments, including facial tools and mini spot treatments based on your skin type and concern is now in for 2023.

Multi-use and Multitasking Products

Now, more than sheet masks and single-use products, this new year consumers will move more towards gel masks and clay masks that they can use over and over again instead of using and throwing ones. Also, there will be a rise in products that holds the benefit of two skincare regime steps in one or three skincare regime steps in one bottle – for example, the Quench BotanicsMon Cherry Brightening Foam Cleanser that combines oil cleanse and water-based cleansing in just one step.

Waterless Beauty

Water is the most common ingredient found in most skincare products, but the upcoming skincare trends of 2023 let us switch to waterless beauty. Disclaimer, water itself isn’t a harmful ingredient, but to ensure the efficacy of the products, brands are ruling out water from their formulations. With almost no preservatives, the waterless products avoid the breeding of germs and enable more effective and full-force results. Keeping the eco-conscious mindset and the impacts of water shortage, this trend will be huge in 2023. From cleansing balms and powder cleansers to pressed serums and concentrated oils, the improved potency of waterless skincare comes in a diverse variety.

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Skincare tips for men

After you’ve cleaned your face, consider a resurfacing face exfoliator. This step is great for removing dead skin layers and digging out the smaller molecules of grime debris…reports Asian Lite News

We are all aware of the damage that extreme pollution may do to our respiratory and cardiac health. But let’s not forget that prolonged exposure to pollutants, which enter the superficial and deeper skin layers via transcutaneous and systemic routes, makes our skin one of the principal targets. There are several simple calculators on the internet that may be used to optimise skincare regimens for women and treatments against pollution-related health problems. Thoughts for males now? Not that many, actually. Here is a guide for males who have had a day filled with pollution in the city.

(Photo:IANSLIFE)

Deep cleansing

The three most common effects of exposure to pollution are accelerated skin aging, pigmentation, and acne formation. The thumb rule to prevent all this begins with deep cleaning, followed by the incorporation of antioxidants or a good regenerative compound. For deep cleansing, choose a facewash that has compounds like activated charcoal in the ingredient list.

Actives such as charcoal helps pull out dirt from deep in the skin, making them harder working and faster acting. And if you have a product like the Bombay Shaving Company Charcoal Facewash, you have the power of activated bamboo charcoal, which has stronger cleansing capabilities. The product is enhanced with vitamins and antioxidants extracted from papayas, and pomegranate extracts that hydrate while combating aging. Translation – you don’t have to spend too long anti-polluting your face!

Exfoliate


After you’ve cleaned your face, consider a resurfacing face exfoliator. This step is great for removing dead skin layers and digging out the smaller molecules of grime debris. Another advantage of exfoliating is that it softens the hair follicles, preparing your skin for a closer and more comfortable shave in the morning.

“With a scaling pollution rate, environmental stressors can cause oxidative stress, skin ageing, pigmentation, and breakouts. To tackle this, a proper skincare routine (cleansing, toning, moisturising) is a must for both men and women.Grooming for men is equally important as they have more active sebaceous glands and open pores.Ingredients containing antioxidants like activated bamboo charcoal, green tea, coffee, acai berry, natural fruit extracts top the list to reverse the oxidative damage, promoting exfoliation and revealing a refreshed and healthy complexion,” says Harleen Chatrath, Dermatologist.

Rehydrate

No, drinking tons of water before going to bed isn’t going to do the trick. You need to help your skin regenerate itself and prepare it to fight the free radicals it will be exposed to the following morning. Either choose a face mask that is rehydrating and regenerating at the same time or take a small capsule of an over-the-counter vitamin E, squish it and apply it all over your face. You’ll notice a visible difference in just a few days of consistency with this step.

Did you know men’s skin is more affected by pollution as compared to women’s? This is because men tend to wear less makeup! The makeup acts as a barrier, preventing free radical particles from permeating into the skin. Even if you choose to opt for adding more makeup to your routine, we recommend taking the nightly ritual seriously as well.

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Ice cubes for glowing skin

Mix one cup of concentrated rose water with a cup of regular water. Pour it into an ice cube tray to chill. Use it daily for rejuvenation, as mentioned above…writes Sreedha Singh…reports Asian Lite News

As beauty aficionados, we frequently investigate alternative cosmetic procedures that we learn about from social media, newspaper columns, or celebrities we admire. As a result, the desire to improve our beauty regimen by using simple kitchen ingredients is as old as time. For example, one of the tried-and-true beauty fads that celebrities and make-up artists alike support is the ice cube on the face.

There are numerous advantages to gently massaging an ice cube around your face and neck once a day. This beauty craze is excellent for addressing skin problems such as dark circles, puffiness, and rashes. Ice cubes have numerous skin benefits, including boosting blood flow, reducing oiliness, healing sunburns, and acting as a moisturising makeup base.

Aloe Vera & Basil Ice-cubes


Aloe Vera and basil are two ingredients used in the kitchen that are excellent for the skin &the body. Aloe Vera reduces excess oil and cures acne, while basil is a potent antioxidant which soothes the skin. This cool and soothing concoction work wonders for curing sunburns.

Preparation:

Crush some basil leaves in a cup of water. Then add two teaspoons of organic Aloe Vera gel into it. Once the concoction is ready, pour it into an ice cube tray halfway and allow it to freeze. Using short, gentle strokes, rub the Ice-Cube over your face.

Rosewater Ice-cubes

Rosewater is a soft beauty substance that removes your makeup and moisturises your skin. After a long day at work, a simple massage with this cube will lighten your skin and lift your spirits. This will battle infections, diminish wrinkles, and offer your skin a fresh clean-up when frozen into Ice-Cubes.

Preparation:

Mix one cup of concentrated rose water with a cup of regular water. Pour it into an ice cube tray to chill. Use it daily for rejuvenation, as mentioned above.

Cucumber & Lemon Ice-cubes

A hydrated and vitamin C-rich diet is healthy for your gut health and also boosts the freshness of your skin. Cucumber and lemon are great antioxidants that help cleanse and brighten your skin naturally. This beauty Ice-cube will boost blood circulation and keep pimples, acne, and redness at bay.

Preparation:

To prepare a puree, blend a cucumber. After that, squeeze a lemon and pour a few drops onto an ice cube tray. Freeze it for some hours and then apply cold for the best impact, for a few seconds at a time.

Saffron Ice-cubes

Saffron has several skin-friendly properties; using saffron ice cubes regularly will help fade tanning, brown spots, pimples, and pigmentation. Additionally, it improves skin tone and provides skin with a healthy glow.

Preparation:

Take a few saffron threads and allow them to bloom in the water. Add rose water into the saffron soaked in water and stir them well. Fill an ice tray with the mixture, and then freeze it. Use these ice cubes as a natural toner for your face.

Turmeric Ice-cubes

Turmeric’s antioxidant qualities aid in slowing down the ageing process. Additionally, it shields the skin’s cells from damage, keeping the skin elastic and reducing the appearance of ageing indications. Ice cubes made from turmeric can aid in lessening age-related symptoms like wrinkles, fine lines, dark under-eye circles, and pigmentation.

Preparation:

Add one spoonful of turmeric powder and one cup of rose water to a bowl. Well, combine the two components. Pour the mixture it the ice mould and let it to get freeze. You can now use your turmeric ice cubes.

Caution

It is suggested to always do a patch test on the back of your hand before applying an ice cube to the face. Massage it gently, and wait a few minutes for it to dry. This will enable you to determine whether the turmeric cube has an adverse effect on your skin.

After a long hectic day, rubbing an ice cube across your face can help relieve stress since it improves facial blood flow and makes the skin appear more radiant. Make this easy Ice-cube cures a part of your daily skincare routine for long-lasting glowing skin.

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Skincare routine for all types

A 60-seconds pause between each step helps in meticulous application and affords enough time for the skin to soak in the products…writes DR. GURJOT MARWAH

When we browse through any lifestyle magazine today, one noticeable change that we’ll observe is that skincare is finally getting its due. Earlier the conversations were all about make-up; we have finally progressed to understand that without good skin, make-up can do little. Hence, the Holy Grail we are chasing today is a skincare routine that’s a go-to for all skin types.

Getting the basics right

Ideally, we should tend to our skin at least twice every day, which is also known as the AM-PM skin routine.

In the morning, cleanse your skin of all the products from the previous night. This first layer is also known as an active layer which is based on what your skin care actually needs such as (pigmentation, dehydration of skin, anti-aging). Based on the concerns apply active, treatment based products such as (Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide).

Next step is applying a moisturiser on the basis of your skin-type. For Oily skin use a gel based moisturiser and for dry skin use a cream based moisturiser.

The final steps include applying sunscreen with SPF 30 and above. For people who apply make-up, sunscreens with foundation are also available.

In the evening, always start with cleansing your skin: You can use a cleanser that is soap free if you have sensitive or dry skin and a regular face wash if you have oily skin to wash your face.

Apply your active ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, or Retinol. The final step includes applying a moisturiser. This is the best time to exfoliate your skin.


There are three key factors to remember here:

A 60-seconds pause between each step helps in meticulous application and affords enough time for the skin to soak in the products.

Try to stick to the steps as mentioned because there’s a science to it. The lighter products or ones that require deeper penetration are applied initially to be sealed in with the heavier products.

As it is said, less is more, absorption of anything beyond the 3 layers is not possible.

Personalising the routine

As of now, we have been discussing skincare regime at its most basic; when your skin needs more help, you need to do more. Hence, if you’re in your early 30s, you could add some anti-aging ingredients to your regime such as Hyaluronic acid (HA) or ceramides.

The former is a particularly strong contender and if you choose it in the form of a skin bio-remodelling treatment such as Profhilo, you’ll be looking at smooth, firm and youthful skin as a result. This is because this injectable form of pure HA aids your skin’s ability to generate elastin and collagen that’s critical to the elasticity of young skin. Profhilo is widely known to slow down the aging process. Skin boosters like this help immensely in retaining the moisture of the skin from within to give you a flawless appearance.

The basic go-to skincare routine is as simple as ‘abc…’ but to customize it to your skin’s requirement takes some work. Always remember to keep your skin’s health central when you customize your regime.

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