10 Japanese habits every Indian woman can follow to look younger naturally

10 Japanese habits every Indian woman can follow to look younger naturally

Vitamins support the immune system, skin, energy, and overall health. Japanese women are intentional about their vitamin intake, particularly vitamin C, which supports collagen production and keeps skin bright and firm. Small daily habits here make a genuinely big difference. Strengthening the immune system, supporting healthy skin, hair, and nails, boosting energy naturally, and improving mood and focus are not separate goals. They are all connected, and vitamins are a quiet but powerful thread running through all of them.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Hindustan Times News

K-Beauty doesn’t always work for Indian skin: Dermatologist explains how to safely adapt Korean skincare trends

Korean skincare has gained massive popularity worldwide, with terms like glass skin, skin flooding, and 10-step routines becoming part of everyday beauty conversations. From sheet masks to snail mucin and fermented ingredients, Korean beauty or K-beauty, promises glowing, hydrated, flawless skin. But an important question remains: Are Korean skincare trends truly suitable for Indian skin? The answer is not a simple yes or no.

Is Korean skincare better than Indian skincare? (Adobe Stock)

Tavishi Dogra is a health and wellness journalist with over eight years of experience in the field of health and wellness journalism. She knows how to explain complex health topics in a way that is easy to understand for many readers. Tavishi has written for respected publications like RSTV, Financial Express, Jagran, and Zee. She has a strong understanding of current health trends and social issues. Tavishi is dedicated to promoting holistic health and wellness solutions, which she shares in her articles about fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. For more insights and updates on health, you can follow her work in the Hindustan Times.

Read moreRead less

“Skincare trends can be exciting, but healthy skin is not achieved by copying routines blindly. What works for one skin type or climate may not necessarily suit another,” Dermatologist Dr Nivedita Dadu of Dadu Medical Centre, tells Health Shots.

Indian and Korean skin are not the same

Skin concerns are shaped by genetics, climate, lifestyle, and environmental exposure. Korean skincare is largely designed around East Asian skin types and cooler, less humid environments. Indian skin, on the other hand, has its own unique characteristics.

Indian skin usually contains higher melanin levels, which provide some natural protection against sun damage but also make it more prone to pigmentation, tanning, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

This means even minor acne or irritation can leave behind stubborn dark marks. At the same time, many parts of India experience intense heat, humidity, pollution, and prolonged sun exposure, all of which significantly influence skincare needs.

Why does K-beauty appeal to so many?

One reason Korean skincare has become popular is its focus on prevention and hydration. Unlike harsh skincare routines that aggressively target flaws, K-beauty emphasises maintaining the skin barrier and supporting long-term skin health. Hydrating toners, lightweight essences, ceramide-based moisturisers, and sunscreen are often beneficial for many skin types, including Indian skin.

“Korean skincare introduced people to the importance of hydration and barrier repair, which are valuable concepts in dermatology,” says Dr Dadu. However, appreciating the philosophy does not mean every trend should be adopted without thought.

How to use Korean skincare trends safely?

Please note these pointers before trying anything on your own:

  • Many people attempt elaborate Korean routines seen online without understanding their own skin condition.
  • A 10-step routine may sound luxurious, but layering multiple products can overwhelm the skin, especially in India’s hot, humid weather. Excessive layering may lead to clogged pores, irritation, breakouts, or increased oiliness.
  • People with acne-prone or sensitive skin often make the mistake of experimenting with multiple active ingredients at once, assuming that more products mean better results.
  • In reality, overdoing skincare can compromise the skin barrier and trigger inflammation.

Pigmentation and acne need special attention

Another big differences between Korean and Indian skin concerns is the frequency of pigmentation disorders. Indian patients commonly struggle with melasma, tanning, acne marks, and uneven skin tone. While many Korean products prioritise glow and hydration, they may not always address these concerns effectively.

For Indian skin, ingredients such as niacinamide, azelaic acid, retinoids, vitamin C, and carefully prescribed pigmentation treatments often play a more central role. Similarly, acne management must be personalised. Viral skincare products promoted online may not suit acne-prone Indian skin and can sometimes worsen breakouts.

Sunscreen matters more than trends

If there is one skincare lesson Indian consumers should prioritise, it is sunscreen. Sun exposure remains one of the leading causes of pigmentation, premature ageing, and skin damage. While Korean sunscreens are often praised for their elegant textures, the most effective sunscreen is ultimately the one that suits your skin and is used consistently. “People chase trending products but neglect daily sun protection. No skincare routine can succeed without sunscreen,” Dr Dadu explains.

Keep skincare simple and personalised

Healthy skin does not depend on following social media trends or owning dozens of products.

A practical skincare routine for most Indian skin types usually includes:

  • A gentle cleanser
  • A moisturiser suited to the skin type
  • Broad-spectrum sunscreen
  • Targeted treatments only when required

The focus should remain on skin health rather than chasing perfection.

“Korean skincare offers useful ideas, but skincare should never be trend-driven. Understanding your own skin and choosing treatments suited to Indian conditions will always give better and safer results than copying routines seen online,” concluded Dr Nivedita Dadu.

(Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including, but not limited to, the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, arising from the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.)

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,
If you live in an Indian metro, skipping Vitamin C may be costing your skin

If you live in an Indian metro, skipping Vitamin C may be costing your skin

Living in Indian metros like Mumbai and Delhi exposes skin to severe pollution, accelerating aging and pigmentation. Dr. Mikki Singh highlights Vitamin C as a crucial antioxidant defense, neutralizing free radicals and boosting collagen. She advises using stabilized derivatives over unstable L-ascorbic acid for better efficacy and recommends pairing it with SPF for comprehensive protection against environmental damage. Here’s something most skincare content glosses over: the city you live in should be shaping the routine you follow. Metropolitan air, particularly in Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi, is a cocktail of PM2.5 particles, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and heavy metal residues from vehicular exhaust. Studies show that particulate matter levels in these cities routinely exceed WHO safe limits by five to ten times. Not on bad days. On ordinary ones.When these pollutants land on your skin, they trigger oxidative stress, a process where free radicals punch holes in your skin barrier, degrade collagen, and accelerate pigmentation. The damage is cumulative, structural, and largely invisible until it isn’t. For anyone living and commuting in a polluted metro, this is the daily reality their skincare needs to address. And that’s precisely why Vitamin C deserves a much more serious conversation than it usually gets.

Watch

The Future of Vitamin C: Enhanced Formulations And Advancements for Brighter Skin in 2025Vitamin C is an antioxidant. Its primary job is to neutralise free radicals before they can cause cellular damage. In the context of skin, this translates to three clinically meaningful outcomes: it helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a concern that is especially prevalent in Indian skin tones, it improves overall radiance, and it provides a supporting layer of photoprotection when used alongside SPF.It also plays a role in collagen synthesis, which means regular use contributes to maintaining skin firmness over time. For metro residents whose skin is under daily oxidative assault from pollution, Vitamin C isn’t a luxury add-on. It’s a functional, evidence-backed response to a real environmental problem. Think of it as your skin’s first line of defence against what the air outside is constantly trying to undo.This is where most conversations about Vitamin C stop being useful. Pure L-ascorbic acid is the form you’ll see marketed most aggressively, and it does work, but it comes with a significant catch. It is inherently unstable. In Mumbai’s humidity, stored at room temperature, it can oxidise within weeks. An oxidised serum doesn’t just lose its efficacy; it can actively irritate the skin.In humid Indian conditions, I steer patients toward stabilised derivatives instead. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl glucoside, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate are gentler on the skin, far more shelf-stable, and far more forgiving in terms of storage. They convert to active Vitamin C once absorbed, which means the skin still gets the benefit, without the instability problem. If you do prefer pure L-ascorbic acid, it needs to be stored in a cool, dark place and finished within three months of opening.There’s a widespread assumption that a higher percentage means a better product. With Vitamin C, this is simply not true. A 10% stabilised derivative that has been stored correctly will outperform a 20% L-ascorbic acid that has turned amber-brown. Concentration means nothing if the active ingredient has already degraded. What you’re looking for is a stable, well-formulated product, not the highest number on the label.On the question of layering: Vitamin C amplifies UV protection, but it does not replace it. In Indian sunlight, where intense UVB and UVA exposure combines with photochemical smog, SPF is non-negotiable. Applying Vitamin C without sunscreen is like wearing a helmet but no seatbelt. The two work together, and one without the other is an incomplete equation. Apply Vitamin C in the morning, let it absorb, and follow with a broad-spectrum SPF before stepping out. That’s the sequence that makes it work.Vitamin C in a polluted metro is not a magic shield. But it is one of the most well-supported tools available for skin that is fighting an environment actively working against it. Used correctly, the right derivative, stored properly, paired with SPF every single morning, it delivers real, visible results: less pigmentation, improved radiance, and better protection over time.The full routine still matters. A good cleanser at the end of the day to remove particulate matter, a barrier-supporting moisturiser, and rigorous sun protection are all part of the same fight. Vitamin C is one soldier in that army, but in a city like Mumbai or Delhi, it is a soldier that genuinely earns its place.Inputs by Dr. Mikki Singh, Founder & Medical Director, Bodycraft Clinics

Tags: , , , , , ,
Why Indian skincare scores over Korean routines

Why Indian skincare scores over Korean routines

Nature’s benefits

One of the most exquisite strengths of Indian skincare lies in its use of revered, time-honoured ingredients drawn from nature’s most precious offerings. Turmeric, sandalwood, saffron, neem, rose, aloe vera, and multani mitti have adorned beauty rituals for centuries, not merely for cosmetic enhancement, but for their deeply therapeutic properties.

These botanicals are naturally abundant in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and healing elements that soothe sensitivity, refine pigmentation, and restore clarity. Rather than offering a fleeting glow, Indian traditions work on the deeper harmony of the skin, encouraging long-term vitality and resilience.

Another advantage is Ayurveda’s personalised elegance. Traditional Indian skincare recognises that beauty is never one-size-fits-all. Every individual possesses a unique doshic constitution — Vata, Pitta, or Kapha — and skincare is curated accordingly. Cooling rose and sandalwood calm fiery redness and irritation, while nourishing oils such as almond or sesame envelop dry skin in softness and protection. This bespoke approach creates a ritual of balance and refinement, far more intuitive and enduring than generic routines shaped by global trends.

Indian skincare is also defined by its simplicity, sophistication, and sustainability. Unlike the often elaborate Korean routines involving numerous layers of toners, essences, serums, and masks, Indian rituals embrace fewer, more versatile preparations. A single ubtan — an herbal blend once cherished by royal brides — can cleanse, exfoliate, and illuminate the complexion in one luxurious step. Similarly, facial oils serve as moisturisers, protectors, and age-defying elixirs. This minimal yet potent approach feels indulgent while remaining gentle and respectful of the skin barrier.

Tags: , , , ,
Why Indian Skin Needs A Winter Reset: Expert-Backed Skincare Tips | Beauty News

Why Indian Skin Needs A Winter Reset: Expert-Backed Skincare Tips | Beauty News

Last Updated:January 14, 2026, 08:48 IST

Winter affects Indian skin differently, leading to dryness and sensitivity. Learn how barrier repair, hydration, and the right ingredients can restore balance.

Winter calls for a skin reset, strengthening the barrier, boosting hydration, and restoring balance to meet the season’s demands.

Winter brings more than just a change in weather, it alters how our skin behaves. For Indian skin, this seasonal transition can be particularly demanding. While it’s true that Indian skin contains more collagen than Caucasian skin, offering better resilience against early wrinkling, studies from the ITC Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report reveal that it also has a weaker barrier and lower moisture retention. This means that even though Indian skin may appear firmer for longer, it is significantly more prone to dryness and sensitivity when temperatures drop.

Understanding the Indian Skin Barrier

The outermost layer of our skin, the stratum corneum acts as a protective shield, locking in moisture and defending against external aggressors. However, Indian skin tends to have lower levels of Natural Moisturising Factors (NMF), making it more vulnerable to transepidermal water loss, especially during colder months. This helps explain why nearly 80% of Indian women experience dryness due to environmental factors, with 87% struggling with under-eye dryness even after using moisturisers, as noted in the Dermafique report.

The Role of Barrier-Repairing Ingredients

Dr Aparna Santhanam, skin expert and dermatologist, ITC Dermafique, emphasises that winter care for Indian skin must go beyond superficial hydration. Ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin play a crucial role in reinforcing the skin’s lipid barrier and improving water retention. Hyaluronic acid acts as a moisture magnet, drawing water into the skin, while glycerin forms a humectant layer that helps seal hydration in. Together, these ingredients help restore balance to skin that is both dehydrated and sensitive.

Addressing Pigmentation and Uneven Tone

Interestingly, Indian skin’s higher melanin content, approximately 50% more than Caucasian skin provides natural sun protection but also makes it more prone to pigmentation. Winter sun exposure, combined with indoor heating, can trigger oxidative stress, leading to dullness and uneven tone. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, helps regulate melanin transfer and improve skin tone, making it particularly beneficial for winter skincare routines.

The Winter Reset Routine

A winter reset doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your skincare routine; it simply involves adapting to your skin’s changing needs. Start with a gentle cleanser containing amino acids or lactic acid to cleanse effectively without stripping natural oils. Follow this with a hydrating serum rich in humectants, and finish with a barrier-supporting moisturiser infused with ceramides and panthenol. Most importantly, stay well hydrated, internal hydration plays a vital role in maintaining skin moisture.

As Dr Santhanam summarises, “Indian skin is beautifully resilient yet uniquely sensitive. Understanding its biology allows us to customise our routines to truly support it. Winter care, when done right, helps restore not just moisture, but balance.”

First Published:

January 14, 2026, 08:48 IST

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
How Ancient Indian Spices Are Shaping Modern Preventive Wellness

How Ancient Indian Spices Are Shaping Modern Preventive Wellness

{By: Cyril Feuillebois}

In today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle, wellness is often treated as a response rather than a responsibility, something we turn to only when discomfort appears. Traditional Indian health systems approached this very differently. Wellness was viewed as a continuous state of balance, shaped by daily rituals, mindful nourishment, and an intuitive understanding of the body. At the heart of this philosophy was the kitchen, where spices were not merely culinary enhancers but powerful tools of preventive care.

ALSO READ: From Kitchen To Complexion: Ayurvedic Winter Spices And Oils That Protect Women’s Skin Naturally

The Kitchen As The First Wellness Space

For generations, Indian households relied on spices such as turmeric, clove, cinnamon, cumin, cardamom, and saffron for their functional benefits. These ingredients played an integral role in maintaining immunity, supporting digestion, improving circulation, and enhancing skin vitality. Turmeric was valued for its anti-inflammatory properties, clove for its antimicrobial action, cinnamon for metabolic support, and saffron for emotional balance and radiance. What is noteworthy today is not a rediscovery of these spices, but a renewed respect for how thoughtfully they were woven into everyday life.

Preventive Wellness Over Reactive Solutions

Modern wellness is increasingly shifting from treatment-driven solutions to preventive approaches. Rising concerns around stress, chronic fatigue, inflammation, digestive imbalance, and premature aging have prompted individuals to seek gentler, long-term ways to support health. Spice-led wellness fits seamlessly into this narrative. When used intentionally and in the right formulations, spices work in harmony with the body, supporting its natural rhythms rather than overriding them. Their effects may be subtle, but over time, they create resilience.

Extending Ancient Wisdom Into Skincare

This philosophy is now extending beyond nutrition into skincare and holistic self-care. Ancient practices recognised that the skin is a reflection of internal balance. Dullness, sensitivity, inflammation, and early aging were seen as signals rather than surface-level concerns. Today, modern formulations are bridging traditional spice wisdom with contemporary research to ensure safety, absorption, and efficacy. Spice-based actives, when thoughtfully developed, can stimulate circulation, strengthen the skin barrier, encourage detoxification, and support cellular renewal.

Ritual-Based Wellness In Modern Retreats

In wellness environments such as Swasthya Retreat, this approach is interpreted through carefully designed rituals where spice-infused therapies support relaxation and restoration without excess. The focus is not on dramatic transformation, but on gently recalibrating the body and mind, allowing guests to experience how preventive practices feel when applied with intention and restraint.

Traditional wellness systems also embraced individuality. Health was never defined by a universal standard, but by balance unique to each person’s constitution, environment, and emotional state. This perspective feels especially relevant today, as wellness culture often promotes perfection rather than presence. Preventive care rooted in spice knowledge encourages awareness over correction and consistency over extremes.

As modern life continues to test our physical and emotional reserves, the answers may not lie in innovation alone, but in refinement. The journey from kitchen to skincare reminds us that wellness is not a trend to be followed, but a way of life to be sustained, quietly, mindfully, and with balance at its core.

The author, Cyril Feuillebois, is the Founder of Spiceology.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

Check out below Health Tools-
Calculate Your Body Mass Index ( BMI )

Calculate The Age Through Age Calculator

Tags: , , , , , ,
6 Dark Lipstick Shades That Complement Indian Skin Tones

11 Skincare Lessons For Indian Women To Take From 2025 Into The New Year

As Indian women, we navigate busy lifestyles with ease, but our skin takes a beating given the stress, pollution, and diverse climates we live through. Nourish your skin and give yourself a healthy glow with these tips that will elevate your skincare routine. 

Skinimalism Please 
Ditching complicated routines for simple, multi-functional products that nourish without overwhelming your skin is the way to go. This helps reduce risk of skin irritation and breakouts. On the plus side, it saves time and is perfect for busy lifestyles. Simply start with a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, and SPF; add products as needed. 

Climate-Specific Care 
Adapt your skincare products to India’s diverse climates – think lightweight gels for humidity, rich creams for dry zones. This ensures hydration matches environmental stressors. 

Elevated Body Care 
Extend your skincare routine to your entire body, not limiting it just to the face. This promotes overall glow and addresses neglected areas. Use a body scrub weekly and a hydrating lotion daily. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on exposed skin! 

Image: Pexels 

Be Smart With SPF 
Use sunscreens that offer protection against UV rays, blue light, and pollution, with added hydration benefits. This shields skin from premature ageing and damage in India’s tropical climate. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ with a lightweight texture; apply about 20 minutes before stepping out and reapply every 2-3 hours. 

Barrier Repair 
A strengthened skin barrier prevents moisture loss and sensitivity in harsh conditions, and protects against pollution and stress. Add a ceramide-rich night cream or squalane oil to your skincare routine. 

Regenerate & Restore 
Regenerative skincare products target deep ageing signs with cutting-edge science. Consult a dermatologist for professional treatments or serums. You can explore exosomes for collagen boost, inflammation reduction, and repair. 

Biohack Beauty 
Boost your skin health with science-backed ingredients like peptides, stem cells, and NAD+ boosters. These ingredients help target skin ageing, build resilience, and repair at a cellular level. 

Image: Pexels 
 
Microbiome-Friendly Products 
Support your skin health with probiotics and prebiotics. These fermented ingredients balance your skin’s ecosystem, reducing inflammation and acne. Pick cleansers or creams with lactobacillus or bifida ferment. 

Wellness-Driven Skincare 
Holistic health reflects externally, so eat antioxidant-rich foods, hydrate well, practise yoga/meditation. Use neurocosmetics to your advantage – focus on stress-reducing ingredients that link emotional wellbeing to skin health. This can help manage stress-induced issues like acne or dullness. 

Personalisation With AI 
Leverage AI-driven skin analysis for customised skincare routines addressing your unique skin concerns. Tailored solutions for your skin type and issues boost effectiveness. Try apps like SkinMatch or consult a dermatologist who uses AI tools for a personalised plan. 

Sustainable Beauty 
Opt for eco-friendly packaging, and natural ingredients that are cruelty-free. Not only does this support the planet, but it often means gentler, skin-friendly formulas. Look for brands with green certifications, refill options, and minimal packaging. 
 
Also Read: Beauty Lessons To Take Note Of From Aditi Rao Hydari

Tags: , , , ,
How Beauty Trends Are Shaping Indian Traveller Choices

How Beauty Trends Are Shaping Indian Traveller Choices

Lifestyle Desk

02 December 2025, 01:11 PM IST

From Paris pharmacies to South Korea’s K‑beauty hotspots, travellers are increasingly choosing destinations based on skincare, wellness, and self-care, making beauty the new driver

The global personal-care and beauty market is no longer confined to shopping aisles and online carts — it is actively shaping travel choices. The rise of “glowcations,” where trips are planned around skincare treatments and wellness experiences, shows how beauty has become a central motivator for modern travellers.

Beauty-driven travel on the rise

In 2026, more than half of Indian travellers report purchasing skincare or beauty products while travelling abroad, and nearly half select destinations for their wellness appeal. Younger travellers, particularly GenZ, are leading this trend, with 38% planning trips to explore beauty stores or undergo treatments while on holiday. Duty-free shopping, visits to cult beauty stores, and local treatments are becoming essential components of travel itineraries.

Beyond spa retreats: personalised experiences

Modern travellers are seeking more than traditional spa breaks. Glowcations focus on tailored skincare routines, climate-adapted hydration treatments, and access to cult brands unavailable locally. South Korea is a popular hub for K‑beauty products, while Paris remains iconic for French pharmacy favourites. Technology is playing a key role, with smart mirrors, AI-assisted product recommendations, and customised wellness kits guiding choices for a personalised beauty experience.

Data-backed insights

  • 57% of Indian travellers have stocked up on skincare abroad.
  • 53% shop duty-free for cosmetics, fragrances, and skincare.
  • 48% visit cult beauty stores while travelling.
  • 45% have tried beauty treatments abroad.
  • 38% of GenZ travellers plan beauty-oriented trips in 2026.

These figures highlight a clear shift in travel motivation: beauty and self-care are no longer optional extras but core considerations in trip planning.

Why travellers are drawn to beauty tourism

Key factors driving this trend include:

  • Desire for personalised experiences tailored to skin type and wellness goals.
  • Access to global beauty culture and products unavailable locally.
  • Social media influence, including travel and beauty content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
  • Growing emphasis on mental wellness and self-care post-pandemic.
  • Affordable global travel options, combining leisure with beauty exploration.

What travellers should consider

While beauty-focused travel offers unique opportunities for indulgence and self-care, experts recommend planning carefully:

  • Research treatments and product authenticity before purchase.
  • Consider climate and water differences that may affect skin.
  • Practice sustainable travel and responsible product use.

The future of beauty-powered travel

The tourism and personal-care industries are becoming closely entwined. Travel itineraries increasingly incorporate skincare routines, spa visits, and wellness experiences. Beauty brands are designing travel-ready products, portable skincare kits, and region-specific treatments. Destinations with strong beauty reputations, like South Korea and Paris, are becoming specialised travel hubs. AI-driven travel platforms are also beginning to recommend destinations based on skincare and wellness preferences.

In 2026, beauty travel is no longer niche — it is mainstream. For travellers, the journey is not only about where they go but how they care for themselves along the way, blending personal wellness, indulgence, and exploration into one holistic experience.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational and lifestyle purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Readers should consult relevant professionals before undergoing skincare treatments or wellness procedures abroad.)

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get Latest Mathrubhumi Updates in English

Follow

Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.

Tags: , , , , ,
The Ultimate Indian Skincare Routine: Experts Reveal What Actually Works | Beauty News

The Ultimate Indian Skincare Routine: Experts Reveal What Actually Works | Beauty News

Last Updated:December 01, 2025, 13:21 IST

From relentless humidity and harsh sun exposure to urban pollution, pigmentation, and seasonal dryness, Indian skin is constantly adapting.

Indian skincare should be gentle and climate-specific.

Indian skin behaves like the climate it lives in – beautiful, resilient, but constantly adapting. One day it glows, the next it rebels. Between harsh sunlight, humidity, pollution, and erratic seasonal swings, no single routine works year-round. What does help is a thoughtful, minimal approach anchored in comfort, consistency, and climate readiness. The perfect Indian skincare routine isn’t about 10 steps or global trends. It’s about listening to your skin and choosing products that support and not shock the skin barrier.

A Routine Shaped By Climate

Experts unanimously agree that any effective Indian skincare routine begins with understanding the environment. As Malini Adapureddy, Founder & CEO of Deconstruct, puts it, “Our climate shapes our skin. Most Indians naturally have oily or combination skin, which means lightweight, non-clogging formulas and the right actives are essential.” She emphasises that harsh products do more harm than good. “Using strong products thinking they’ll work faster weakens the barrier. A gentle routine that supports your skin is far more beneficial in the long run,” she adds.

Dr. Shalini Dubey, Medical Affairs Manager at Iberia Pharmaceuticals, echoes this, noting the need to adjust products with changing conditions. From Delhi’s dry winters to Mumbai’s coastal humidity, she explains that small tweaks, like swapping gel moisturisers for richer creams during colder months, help maintain balance. “Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Even on cloudy days, UV rays penetrate through windows and haze,” she stresses.

Dr. Mili Sinha, Aesthetic Physician at La Clinique and expert at Oteria, notes that Indian skin deserves routines crafted specifically for the region. “A perfect routine isn’t about copying global trends. With intense sun, humidity, and pollution, we must choose products suited to Indian conditions so the skin becomes healthier and more resilient,” she says.

Building The Ideal Indian Skincare Routine

1. Start with a gentle cleanse – Pollution, sweat, and dust cling to the skin, making cleansing essential, but never harsh. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera, niacinamide, or salicylic acid to purify without stripping.

2. Hydrate strategically – Gel moisturisers work best for oily and combination skin, while richer creams suit dry or mature skin. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins A and E, and niacinamide help maintain hydration in heat and humidity.

3. Add targeted serums – Vitamin C brightens and fights pollution-induced dullness; niacinamide strengthens the barrier and fades marks; retinol or retinal improves texture when used slowly. Bakuchiol offers a gentler alternative for sensitive skin.

4. Protect with sunscreen daily – SPF 30 or higher with PA++++ protection is essential in a tropical climate. Lightweight formulas with soothing botanicals prevent tanning, spots, and premature ageing.

5. Exfoliate with care – Skip physical scrubs. Opt for once-a-week chemical exfoliation using lactic, glycolic, or salicylic acid. Overdoing it leads to pigmentation and irritation, which is an especially common concern in Indian skin.

6. Adapt your routine seasonally – Light, breathable products suit summer and monsoon, while winter demands barrier-repairing creams to combat dryness and flaking.

Great skin in India doesn’t come from complicated routines. It comes from consistency, gentle care, climate awareness, and patience. When your skin feels overwhelmed, simplify. When the weather changes, adjust. With the right foundation, Indian skin thrives naturally, no filters required.

Location :

Delhi, India, India

First Published:

December 01, 2025, 13:14 IST

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Indian kitchen remedies to lower uric acid and reduce inflammation

Indian kitchen remedies to lower uric acid and reduce inflammation

Managing high uric acid levels doesn’t always require expensive supplements or medications. 

Many herbs and spices commonly found in Indian kitchens offer powerful natural benefits that help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and support uric acid balance.

Incorporating these simple remedies into your daily routine can make a noticeable difference in joint comfort and overall wellness.

Also Read: Best low-purine foods to control uric acid naturally

1. Turmeric: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse

Turmeric, rich in curcumin, is one of the most effective herbs for reducing uric acid levels. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe swelling and pain associated with gout. Adding a pinch of turmeric to warm water, milk, soups, or curries helps improve metabolism and reduce uric acid buildup. Regular consumption, even in small amounts, can support long-term joint health.

2. Ginger: Supports Detox and Relieves Pain

Ginger is known for its ability to boost circulation and promote detoxification. It helps the body flush out excess uric acid while easing joint stiffness. Drinking ginger tea or adding fresh grated ginger to meals can provide daily relief. A warm ginger compress on swollen joints may also help reduce localised discomfort.

3. Tulsi (Holy Basil): Helps Regulate Metabolism

Tulsi leaves are packed with antioxidants and compounds that support metabolic functions. These properties help break down uric acid more efficiently and prevent it from accumulating in the bloodstream. Sipping tulsi tea or chewing a few fresh leaves every morning can help improve overall uric acid management.

4. Cinnamon: Balances Blood Sugar and Uric Acid

Cinnamon is widely known for stabilising blood sugar, but it also supports healthy uric acid levels. Its warming nature boosts digestion and reduces inflammation. A pinch of cinnamon in herbal teas, smoothies, or oatmeal can enhance flavour while naturally supporting metabolic health.

5. Garlic: A Simple Everyday Remedy

Garlic contains sulphur compounds that help eliminate toxins, including excess uric acid. It also reduces inflammation and improves kidney function, aiding the body’s ability to filter uric acid. Consuming raw garlic on an empty stomach or adding it generously to food can contribute to overall relief from uric acid-related symptoms.

6. Methi (Fenugreek Seeds): Supports Digestion and Detoxification

Fenugreek seeds help regulate digestion and promote toxin removal. Soaking methi seeds overnight and consuming them in the morning can help reduce uric acid levels over time. They also support weight management, which is important for controlling uric acid.

7. Coriander: A Gentle Detoxifying Herb

Coriander leaves and seeds have natural diuretic properties that help the body release excess fluids and toxins. Drinking coriander water or adding coriander leaves to daily meals provides a refreshing way to maintain balance.

Also Read: Smart snacking: Healthy options for people with uric acid issues

Simple, Trusted, and Effective

Herbal remedies and everyday spices are powerful allies in managing uric acid. When paired with a balanced diet, proper hydration, and active lifestyle, these natural ingredients can ease discomfort, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy joints—without relying on complicated treatments.

Disclaimer: This article offers general information on health and skincare. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified specialist for specific concerns.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Best oLive
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.