Ask Dr. Bhagyashri: Expert Skincare Advice

People often ask about the secret to celebrity skin whitening. It's not just one thing. It's a combination of treatments like brightening tablets or injections, but also a disciplined lifestyle with proper diet, exercise, and sun protection. We can achieve an even, brighter tone, but it's important to have realistic expectations.

Laser toning with the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is one of my favorite treatments for achieving an even skin tone and tackling stubborn acne marks. It works by breaking down melanin, which is then cleared by the body. For long-lasting results, consistency with 5 to 6 sessions is key.

As July is UV Safety Awareness Month, I want to emphasize the importance of sunscreen. It is essential even when you are indoors, regardless of the season. Use a minimum of SPF 30 and make sure to reapply it every two to three hours.

For men dealing with tanning, prevention with sunscreen is the best उपाय (solution). Don't rush to rub potatoes or tomatoes on a fresh tan. Let it settle for a week, then see a dermatologist for mild peels. Neck pigmentation is often a different issue called Acanthosis Nigricans, which is related to insulin resistance.

What is the ideal skincare routine for men? I believe in keeping it simple. A face wash and a sunscreen suited to your skin type are all you need to start. For oily skin, use a gel-based sunscreen and apply it two to three times a day. That's it.

Yes, men's and women's skin are absolutely different, so using separate products is necessary. Men's skin is thicker, oilier due to testosterone, has larger pores, and is generally less sensitive. This is why their skincare routine needs to be tailored differently.

Knowing when to use active ingredients is crucial. Vitamin C, an antioxidant, is best used in the morning with sunscreen. Retinol, for anti-aging, should only be used at night as it makes skin photosensitive. Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide are versatile and can be used day or night.

Pregnancy brings many skin changes like melasma, stretch marks, and acne. My advice is to not worry. Most treatments are not safe during pregnancy, so focus on moisturizing and hydrating. We can fix most of these issues postpartum, so enjoy this beautiful phase of your life.

Dark underarms are not dirt. They can be caused by genetics, friction, deodorants, or an internal condition like insulin resistance. Please don't scrub the area. My favorite treatments are a combination of Q-switch laser and chemical peels, which can give 70 to 80% improvement.