Still breaking out? What Indian women need to know about acne
This physiological trait makes Indian skin more vulnerable to recurring breakouts, even when hormonal acne from the teenage years subsides.THE NUMBERS SHOW ACNE ISN'T JUST A TEEN ISSUEAccording to the Indian Skin Health Report, acne remains a top concern for 68% of Indian women. Among women aged 20–25, a striking 94% still experience breakouts. 'This tells us that adult acne in India isn't the exception—it's almost the norm,' says Dr Santhanam.advertisementMany women try over-the-counter spot treatments or harsh cleansers, but these often provide only temporary relief—or worse, worsen sensitivity.ACNE IN INDIAN SKIN OFTEN LEAVES BEHIND DARK MARKSFor Indian skin tones, acne comes with a double challenge: pigmentation. 'Even after the acne heals, it often leaves behind post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation—dark marks that can take weeks or months to fade,' explains Dr Santhanam.This leads to a frustrating cycle of active acne and scars, which affects both skin health and self-confidence.WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN ACNE CARE FOR INDIAN SKINEffective acne care for Indian skin should be gentle, targeted, and tailored to our unique needs. Dr Santhanam recommendsGo non-comedogenic: Choose skincare products (moisturisers, sunscreen, and makeup) that don't clog pores.Balance oil without overdrying: Use cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to regulate oil without stripping the skin.Hydrate strategically: Even oily skin needs hydration. Go for lightweight, gel-based moisturisers that support your skin barrier.Protect against sun damage: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day to prevent darkening of acne scars and spots.CHOOSE SKINCARE TESTED ON INDIAN SKIN'What works for Western skin may not suit Indian skin,' she explains. Look for products that are clinically tested on Indian skin for better results and reduced chances of irritation.THE BOTTOM LINE: ADDRESS ACNE HOLISTICALLYadvertisementAcne in Indian women is more than a passing phase—it's a skin condition influenced by biology, climate, lifestyle, and more. 'We need to move away from one-size-fits-all solutions,' says Dr Santhanam. The best approach? Understand your skin's needs, listen to its signals, and choose treatments that target both the breakout and the after-effects.Clearer skin isn't about harsher routines—it's about smarter, science-backed care made for Indian skin.- Ends
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Hindustan Times
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Tamil Nadu CM Stalin discharged from Chennai hospital after therapeutic procedure
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Time of India
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Velvet Bites, Smarter Choices: Is Chocolate the New Intelligent Nutrition?
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Chocolate began its shift from indulgence to intelligent nutrition in the early 2000s, as health-conscious consumers and food innovators started embracing functional snacking. The trend gained momentum with the rise of dark chocolate's antioxidant properties, followed by the integration of added proteins, fiber, vitamins, and low-GI sweeteners. By 2010, the global demand for dark chocolate had surged, with studies highlighting its cardiovascular benefits and high flavonoid content. According to a 2015 report by Mintel, nearly 48% of Indian consumers viewed dark chocolate as a 'healthier' alternative to milk chocolate. This perception has only strengthened with the clean-label and high-protein snack revolution. Today, chocolate is seen as a delivery system for clean energy, satiety, and wellness—especially in formats like protein bars, functional chocolates, and sugar-conscious alternatives. But is this the right approach? 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Kalpana Gupta, Clinical Nutritionist - Nutrition and Dietetics, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, said, "With growing evidence on the benefits of cocoa polyphenols and the advent of clean-label formulations, my approach has shifted from restricting chocolate to allowing it in moderate amounts—especially dark chocolate and those with added protein or fiber—for people who are looking to manage weight while satisfying their sweet tooth." Dr. Vilas Shirhatti, Principal Adviser at Zydus Wellness (RiteBite Max Protein), said, "The clean-label movement is pushing for more transparency in labeling, fewer ingredients in formulations, and freedom from unrecognizable additives and preservatives. 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