Since, the word “fair” became a taboo in the beauty industry, the adjectives like “glow”, “luminous”, “illuminated” and such have stealthily claimed the vocabulary and space of skincare routines and trends.
SKIN TRUTHS
Mumbai-based dermatologist, Dr Rashmi Shetty, expresses alarm at skin being connected to a trend. She explains that skin should be subjected to everlasting care, and not forced to conform to seasonal fads. Shetty feels that one must realise that what one sees on social media with lighting, Photoshop and filters are far from reality.
Shetty says that “to achieve luminous skin with a glass-like effect, it is important to ensure that skin is well hydrated and does not have any inflammation”. Delhi-based dermatologist, Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, also believes that to get that radiant skin, it is important to keep oneself hydrated inside out.
Hydrating facials at a salon or dermatologist’s clinic can contribute to healthy complexion. Aggressive treatments like micro needling and lasers can improve texture, but Shetty cautions that one should not overdo the same. Gupta reiterates that clear, smooth texture is crucial for achieving that “Dolphin-like” glossy skin. She also recommends following the sandwich method of product application. Gupta says, “start with a face wash, then an exfoliator to remove dead skin cells, black heads, and white heads. Follow that up with a serum which has hyaluronic acid and a hyaluronic acid infused moisturiser. Humectants like glycerin can be used to lock in the moisture. Use a sun block if you are going out in the sun.”
MAKEUP TRICKS
Celebrity makeup artist, Anu Kaushik says that glass-glow effect, it is important to understand that skin texture must be in good shape. She explains that to achieve this translucent look, makeup products need to be sheer and fluid. Kaushik speaks of two very interesting techniques to achieve the desired effect. One, “tap” the moisturiser into the skin instead of massaging it in, and two, ditch the blender and use the kabuki brush to “buff” in the foundation. I tried the tapping technique and was pleasantly surprised by the effect. Kaushik also recommends using a face mist or makeup setting spray after each layer of product to hold on to the translucent luminosity. She says use of powder should be limited, rather completely avoided to achieve this look.
SUPER FOODS
In a very different context, Wayne Dyer had said, “What comes out is what’s inside”. However, it holds true for our situation as well. Author and nutritionist, Kavita Devgan says, “A clear glowing complexion can be exclusively yours just by eating right.” She recommends that one should add the following five foods in their daily diet to achieve a healthy, glowing complexion:
1) Eat an amla a day for a glowing skin; it helps to detoxify the liver and aids digestion – and is also a good source of vitamin C and other minerals good for the skin.
2) A cup or two of yoghurt will deliver probiotics that help add healthy bacteria to the intestines (so no acne). Plus, it is needed for the production of collagen, which is needed to keep signs of ageing away.
3) Oranges are in season so rejoice as they can help fadeaway the wrinkles. The secret lies in their high vitamin C content (one orange can supply up to 116.2 per cent of your daily needs), which is an effective antioxidant.
4) Fish, particularly salmon and mackerel are beneficial as the omega-3 fatty acids in them can help reduce skin dryness and prevent inflammation. Walnuts and flaxseed help too.
5) Sprinkling wheat germ powder in daily meals, helps improve biotin deficiency. Lack of biotin can lead to dry, scaly skin. It also delivers zinc and cuts the over production of sebum in the body (oily substance), a common cause of acne.
STRESS BUSTERS
As a holistic healer, I have realised that any disturbance in our physiological or psychological health will first reflect on physical realm – skin and hair. Hence, to achieve a calm, clear complexion, it is important to aim for a calm and clear mind. One of course, knows that no one has ever calmed down when told to “calm down”. However, daily practice of meditation and physical exercise is needed to break free of stress. Taking five minutes out every day to sit at a place and focusing on one’s breathing is the simplest and perhaps the most effective meditation. The conscious breathing exercises like kapalbhati (forced exhalations from the stomach) and anulom vilom (alternate nostril breathing) can improve blood circulation and relaxes the mind and refreshes once appearance.
Similarly, a simple walk or swim can help release stress and promote health and wellbeing which in turn reflects on the skin.
MY ROUTINE
I do have clear, supple skin, but to maintain that I follow the points below:
1) I never go to sleep, without removing makeup. I don’t wear much makeup, apart from deep-hued kohl and dark lipsticks. Hence, I pay special attention to these two delicate areas of the face. To begin with I use a blend of coconut oil infused with lavender and tea tree essential oils to remove the eyes and lips makeup. I follow this up with a facewash, face mist, illuminating serum, nourishing concoction of essential oils, and a hydrating cream. With this night regime, every morning a wakeup with clean and hydrated skin.
2) I try to drink two-three liters water but in small quantities through the day. Green tea and herbal teas helps detox my system. Recently, I have introduced barley water as my first drink of the day to keep my kidneys humming. Within a week I have noticed a considerable difference on my skin.
3) My practice of yin yoga flow also helps release toxins from the body and keeps it healthy inside out.
4) Meditation and my spiritual practices have had a calming effect on my dry skin and inflammations.