Latest news with #AparnaSanthanam
India Today
01-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Still breaking out? What Indian women need to know about acne
If you thought acne was just a teenage problem, the mirror might say otherwise. For many Indian women, breakouts continue long after high school is over, into their 20s, and even 30s. Despite following skincare routines, eating healthy, and avoiding makeup on bad skin days, the pimples persist. So why is adult acne so common in Indian women—and why don't generic skincare products always work?advertisementIndia Today spoke with Dr Aparna Santhanam, skin expert and dermatologist at ITC Dermafique, to understand why Indian skin experiences acne differently, and what truly works when it comes to managing INDIAN SKIN IS UNIQUELY ACNE-PRONE'Indian skin tends to have larger pores and more active sebaceous glands,' explains Dr Santhanam. This combination means more sebum (oil) production—especially in hot, humid weather—which clogs pores and creates an ideal environment for acne. This physiological trait makes Indian skin more vulnerable to recurring breakouts, even when hormonal acne from the teenage years 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 women try over-the-counter spot treatments or harsh cleansers, but these often provide only temporary relief—or worse, worsen 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 leads to a frustrating cycle of active acne and scars, which affects both skin health and 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 oil without overdrying: Use cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to regulate oil without stripping the strategically: Even oily skin needs hydration. Go for lightweight, gel-based moisturisers that support your skin against sun damage: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day to prevent darkening of acne scars and 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 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 skin isn't about harsher routines—it's about smarter, science-backed care made for Indian skin.- Ends
Hindustan Times
01-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
National Doctor's Day 2025: 5 reasons why doctors struggle with mental health and what you can do to help
National Doctor's Day 2025: In India, July 1 is dedicated as a day of tribute for the healers among us. It's a day observed to honour doctors' relentless service to the community. But beneath the white coat of responsibility lies a human being, often forgotten, but they are also exhausted, emotionally burdened, yet still show up to care, comfort and heal. HT Lifestyle has reached out to experts to understand the mental toll on the doctors, along with what you can do to support them, not just on Doctor's Day, but every day. National Doctor's Day 2025: Celebrated on July 1, National Doctor's Day in India also honours Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, a pioneer in medical field. (Freepik) ALSO READ: National Doctor's Day 2025: What makes July 1 important? Theme, history and significance explained Doctors are often under mental pressure that builds quietly, after long hours of work.(Freepik) Dr Aparna Santhanam, dermatologist and holistic wellness coach, told HT Lifestyle that while doctors are often seen as 'unflappable', cool, collected, and always in control, there's a real vulnerability that often doesn't make it to the surface. She said, 'Doctors are often seen as unflappable professionals, but behind the scenes, they face enormous mental and emotional strain. It's time we acknowledge the challenges they endure, and reflect on what all of us can do to make healthcare a more humane, collaborative space.' Dr Aparna shared 5 reasons why doctors' mental health takes a big hit: 1. Anxiety and hypervigilance The responsibility of life and death decisions weighs heavily, fueling anxiety at times. Even after hours, doctors often worry: Did I miss something? Could I have done more? This constant vigilance can fuel chronic anxiety. 2. Sleep deprivation Long shifts, night duties, and emergencies disrupt sleep cycles. Over time, sleep deprivation impairs judgment, empathy, and personal wellbeing. 3. Emotional exhaustion Repeated exposure to suffering, grief, and high-stakes situations can drain doctors emotionally. This leads to a state of deep emotional fatigue and detachment. 4. Moral distress Doctors often want to do more for patients but are limited by resources, time, or systemic constraints. Making tough choices like rationing time in emergencies creates significant inner conflict, which can be mentally very distressing. 5. Aggression and impatience from patients Verbal abuse, hostility, or unrealistic demands add to the stress. While patients are understandably anxious, aggressive behaviour demoralises doctors and strains the doctor-patient relationship. All these snowball into burnout, which is a state of complete mental and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Since doctors are constantly under pressure, their mental energy gradually depletes. Shruti Padhye, Senior Psychologist at Mpower, an initiative by Aditya Birla Education Trust, added to this and explained, "Burnout in high-pressure hospital settings is rarely just about workload; it's the relentless demand for empathy without adequate emotional recovery. When clinicians are expected to remain composed in the face of ongoing trauma, emotional fatigue isn't a weakness; it's a predictable human response.' ALSO READ: Happy National Doctors' Day 2025: 100 wishes, greetings, messages, images and WhatsApp status to thank your doctor How doctors reduce their stress levels? Doctors may catch up with their family and friends after long hours of shift to relax and take their minds off work. (Freepik) Doctors embrace certain techniques to reduce their stress to ensure they can stay composed, care for others effectively, and bounce back quickly. Many of them like to include daily self-care routines even in their busy schedule, from exercise to creative hobbies, to energise themselves. Hobbies Dr Tanima Baronia, Deputy Director, ICU and consultant anaesthesiologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, shared how creative outlets help doctors connect with themselves and come back to their duties with more compassion. She said, "Medicine may be our calling, but like anyone else, doctors need moments to reconnect with themselves. Beyond the hospital walls, many of us turn to the arts , dance, music, and painting, not just as hobbies, but as sanctuaries. For some, classical dance offers a grounding rhythm that brings them back to their core. Others find peace in the quiet brushstrokes of an acrylic painting, helping them declutter mentally. These creative escapes are not distractions, but essential tools that help us recharge, reflect, and return to our patients with renewed clarity, energy, and a deeper sense of compassion.' Exercises Even as doctors take care of others' health, looking after their own wellbeing is also important so that they can stay focused and continue to provide the best care. Dr Seema Dhir, Sr. Consultant- Internal Medicine, Artemis Hospitals, said that fitness is at the very centre of doctors' self-care routine. She explained, ' Many doctors find time to work out every day, even though they work long hours and are under a lot of stress. They might go for a 30-minute jog at dawn or do yoga to relax between shifts to build endurance. Their work requires them to be clear, strong, and able to bounce back. Exercise is good for your mind as well as your body. It helps doctors deal with the emotional weight of saving lives by making them more focused and less stressed. More importantly, it reinforces what they say every day; it's better to prevent problems than to fix them. When doctors make their own health a priority by moving around, they show that self-care is not just a choice but also a professional duty.' What can you do to support doctors? By being empathetic to doctors, you can help contribute in easing their mental load.(Freepik) How you behave with a health professional can make a big difference, not just to your care experience, but also to their mental wellbeing, reducing their mental load. Small, empathetic and cooperative gestures go a long way. Dr Aparna Santhanam shared 5 ways your small acts can help doctors: 1. Respect boundaries Doctors need rest to care for others. Avoid expecting instant responses at all hours, and understand they, too, need downtime. 2. Don't push for free advice Your doctor friend or relative deserves professional respect. Rather than seeking casual diagnoses at social events or over text, book a consultation for proper care. 3. Be patient and polite If your doctor is running late, remember emergencies can arise. Anger or yelling only increases stress for everyone. 4. Be honest about your health Transparency about symptoms, history, and medications enables better, safer care. Holding back information only complicates treatment. This also adds mental strain on doctors who instead have to fill in the blanks. 5. Remember their humanity, say thank you Doctors are people too, with emotions, families, and limits. So, a simple 'thank you' or a moment of empathy can go a long way in recognising their work. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Fashion Network
03-06-2025
- Health
- Fashion Network
Kaya expands acne solutions offering with 'Aerolase Neo Elite' launch
Dermatology clinic chain Kaya has launched the Aerolase Neo Elite laser treatment across its clinics in India, strengthening its portfolio of non-invasive acne care solutions. Available exclusively at Kaya for the next year, the launch reflects the brand's continued focus on expanding its dermatological technologies. 'The Aerolase Neo Elite has truly raised the bar in acne and scar treatment," said Kaya Ltd's head dermatologist and vice president Dr Aparna Santhanam in a press release. "It is the only laser approved for acne treatment that gives efficacious results for active acne, without the need for a host of oral medications with potential side effects." Kaya is the first multi-clinic brand in the country to offer the FDA-cleared Aerolase Neo Elite, a contactless laser treatment designed to address active acne, scarring, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and erythema. Using a 650-microsecond, 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser, the device penetrates the skin to target oil glands and bacteria without causing surface damage. 'Kaya is excited to introduce Aerolase Neo Elite," said Kaya's marketing head and vice president Nishant Nayyar. "Safe, contactless, and effective for all skin types, this innovation reinforces our commitment to delivering breakthrough solutions that truly transform lives and restore confidence.'
Business Standard
31-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Kaya Launches Aerolase Neo Elite - A Laser for Acne & Scars with up to 87% Proven Results
VMPL New Delhi [India], May 31: Kaya, India's leading chain of dermatology clinics, exclusively brings you Aerolase, a breakthrough laser treatment for active acne and acne scars that will be available only at Kaya clinics for the year ahead. This exclusive launch reinforces Kaya's commitment to offering world-class, non-invasive dermatological solutions that are safe, effective, and inclusive. Kaya become First Multi-Clinic Brand to Introduce This Revolutionary Acne Scar Solution in India Aerolase Neo Elite, widely recognized as the leading solution in non-invasive acne care, is now introduced by Kaya, the first multi-clinic brand in India to offer this revolutionary acne scar treatment. Utilizing a 650-microsecond, 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser, it penetrates deep to target active acne, oil glands, bacteria, and post-acne scarring without harming the skin's surface. This FDA-cleared laser treatment is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and darker skin tones. It requires no anesthesia, gels, or downtime. Patients feel only a gentle warm sensation during the session and can resume daily activities immediately. The device's contactless handpiece ensures maximum hygiene, making it an excellent option for acne-prone skin. The Neo Elite offers a comprehensive approach by addressing active acne, scarring, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and erythema in a single session, reducing the need for multiple treatment modalities or medications. It can also be safely used in conjunction with other therapies such as topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, or isotretinoin, without requiring patients to interrupt their current regimen. Most importantly, by effectively clearing acne and improving skin texture, the treatment significantly boosts self-esteem, with 94% of patients reporting increased confidence after completing their sessions. Speaking about the launch, Dr. Aparna Santhanam, Head Dermatologist, & Vice President at Kaya Ltd, said, "The Aerolase Neo Elite has truly raised the bar in acne and scar treatment. It is the only laser approved for acne treatment that gives efficacious results for active acne, without the need for a host of oral medications with potential side effects. We are delighted to introduce this for the first time in India, exclusively in our clinics. Our goal is to provide effective solutions that restore skin health and renew confidence, especially for the countless acne sufferers, and this technology does that and more extremely effectively." Highlighting Kaya's vision, Nishant Nayyar, Head of Marketing and Vice President at Kaya Ltd., remarked, "Acne remains one of the most persistent skin concerns in India, with many cases continuing into adulthood and often accompanied by post-acne pigmentation. Kaya is excited to introduce Aerolase Neo Elite, an FDA-cleared advanced laser treatment that delivers up to 87% reduction in acne lesions and 82% improvement in scarring. Safe, contactless, and effective for all skin types, this innovation reinforces our commitment to delivering breakthrough solutions that truly transform lives and restore confidence.'' With Aerolase Neo Elite, Kaya aims to deliver clearer, smoother, healthier skin through a technology-driven, patient-first approach. This innovation reinforces Kaya's position at the forefront of dermatological care, offering holistic solutions that enhance not just appearance but also confidence.
Time of India
28-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Are you still using traditional sunscreens? Discover why full light technology is a game changer!
On National Sunscreen Day, experts urge Indians to upgrade sun protection. Dr. Aparna Santhanam highlights Full Light Technology, shielding against UVA, UVB rays, infrared radiation, and blue light from screens. This innovation combats premature aging and pigmentation, crucial in India's intense sun. As we mark National Sunscreen Day, it's time to rethink how we protect our skin in an age where sun exposure and screen time go hand in hand. Traditional sunscreens have long focused on shielding skin from UVA and UVB rays, but research now shows that visible light and infrared radiation also contribute significantly to premature aging, pigmentation, and changes in skin texture. Enter Full Light Technology: a next-gen innovation that broadens protection to cover the entire light spectrum. Dermatologist and Skin expert Dr. Aparna Santhanam explains, 'Full spectrum exposure can lead to long-term skin damage, and Full Light Technology offers an essential safeguard against these effects.' Unlike conventional sunscreens, this technology shields skin not just from UV rays, but also from infrared radiation and visible light, including blue light emitted by digital devices. 'Think of it as an upgrade to your sun protection,' says Dr. Santhanam. 'It's not just about sunburn anymore. It's about preserving radiance, firmness, and skin tone over time.' Sunscreens with Full Light Technology combine high-performance protection with added skincare benefits, making them indispensable for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. Further enhancing this evolution is the role of Artificial Intelligence. AI-powered skincare tools can now analyze your skin and lifestyle to recommend sunscreens tailored to your unique needs. 'With AI, skincare becomes both personalized and precise,' adds Dr. Santhanam. In a country like India, where intense sun exposure is a year-round reality, upgrading to sunscreens with Full Light Technology isn't just a seasonal recommendation - it's a daily essential. The damage caused by visible light and infrared radiation often goes unnoticed until signs like pigmentation, dullness, and fine lines begin to surface. Full Light Technology fills the critical gap left by traditional sunscreens, offering protection that's both preventive and corrective. As awareness around holistic skincare grows, dermatologists advocate for its everyday use, even indoors, to combat cumulative exposure from both natural and artificial sources. With National Sunscreen Day serving as a timely reminder, adopting advanced sun care solutions ensures that your skin remains protected, resilient, and future-ready. Let's go beyond the basics today. Opt for smarter protection with Full Light Technology and let innovation shield your skin every day. Inputs by Dr. Aparna Santhanam, Dermatologist and Skin Expert at ITC Dermafique One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
