Skincare Science: Honest Gyaan for Healthy Skin

Dry skin doesn't automatically mean you should run for hyaluronic acid. If your skin barrier is broken or irritated, applying an acid can make it worse. Repair the barrier first, then hydrate.

This is step 3 of my everyday skincare routine: sunscreen. I apply it liberally, focusing on areas where the sun hits most, like the upper cheeks, nose, and forehead. Consistency is the key to effective sun protection.

Step 2 of my simple, consistent skincare routine is moisturizer. I apply it everywhere, including my lips, to lock in hydration before applying sunscreen. A well-moisturized base is essential.

My skincare routine has stayed the same for years, and it starts with this. Step 1: Wash your face first thing in the morning to remove any dirt and grime from the night. A clean canvas is the start of good skin.

Does hair age like skin? Yes. The hair root thins, the growth cycle shortens, and the scalp's ability to nourish the hair reduces. This is influenced by oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormonal changes.

When should you use oils in your skincare? I recommend using them during "dawn and dusk care," those in-between hours after you've washed your face but before your main routine. Gently massage it in for a nourishing treat.

Many aspire to have a sharp jawline and high cheekbones, but this can sometimes make you look more mature. Youthful faces are often softer and rounder due to more fat padding. Don't chase trends that might tamper with your youthfulness.

Please don't compare yourself to stars and fret about your appearance. Much of what you see in the media is the result of post-production, lighting, and makeup. Be kind to the real person you see in the mirror.

Beauty was never meant to look the same. I am against the "templatizing" of beauty. My goal is to enhance and preserve your unique features, not to make you fit a standardized ideal.