‘EAT RIGHT AND TREAT YOUR SKIN RIGHT!’

...advises eminent dermatologist Dr Bindu Sthalekar on how one can have healthy skin in these stressful times

 In the last decade, entire lifestyles have gone for a complete change. And while our lives may have improved in several ways, leading fast paced, stressful lives has started to take a toll on our skin and hair. Processed, refined foods and cola drinks increase hormonal imbalances leading to acne, hair loss, increased facial hair and menstrual problems in women.
    Exposure to sunlight is another serious problem that many women don't realise and one of the main causes of premature aging. Harmful UV rays cause pigmentation, tanning and premature fine lines, which is why applying a sunscreen is an absolute must. Even if you're a working woman who sits in an air conditioned office all day, wear a sunscreen and a moisturiser because sitting in such an environment dehumidifies the skin and strips the skin of essential moisture. This will eventually result in Indian women aging faster than their western counterparts.
    There are three steps to healthy hair and skin — eat right, take adequate care and make certain lifestyle changes. Today a lot of pesticides are used in vegetables and many times food isn't even cooked right. Make sure you take vitamin supplements whenever needed and eat foods that are high in fibre. A topical Vitamin C cream depending on your skin type helps mop up the toxins. Retinol prevents wrinkles and exfoliation once a month helps skin remain healthy.
    The best way you can take care of your skin is to cleanse and moisturise it daily and avoid skipping out on the suncreen. I always tell my patients —go out without clothes, but don't go out without suncreen! Make sure that you get at least six to eight hours of sleep daily since the growth hormone is secreted during the time we sleep. Avoid alcohol since it dehydrates the skin and smoking decreases blood circulation.
    Stress is another major factor that causes skin and hair problems so make sure that you unwind daily. Eight hours of stress at work will go away with half an hour of complete relaxation. When you totally shut yourself off, you neutralise your stress levels. My mantra is to eat right, act right and treat your skin right!
Homemade Exfoliation Paste
Grind moong daal with the cover and use it to exfoliate your skin every three days.
Health Juice for glowing skin 1/2 beetroot 1 carrot 1 amlaor a tomato A few leaves of spinach, coriander and mint. Mix these ingredients and drink the juice as often as you can.

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