Latest news with #DeepaliBhardwaj
Hindustan Times
01-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
World Milk Day: Using raw milk for healthy skin during summer
In a world chasing Korean and Japanese skincare routines, take a pause and look around your kitchen. Daily essentials such as plain milk might just be the answer to our skincare troubles. On World Milk Day today, let's explore the uses and benefits of raw milk, especially in summer. Raw milk is traditionally praised in Ayurvedic rituals and grandmother-approved DIYs, but now it has found its way in modern skincare as a cooling ingredient, especially in the hot and humid months. It contains lactic acid (an AHA), which can gently help remove dead skin cells, hydrate, and improve overall skin texture. In summer, raw milk, which can be both from cows and buffalo, may also offer a cooling effect and temporarily calm sun-exposed skin. 'Raw milk can be used as a cleanser, mask, or toner, but it depends on your skin type. People with acne-prone, oily or sensitive skin should use it sparingly,' says dermatologist Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, adding, 'Raw milk with sandalwood and a pinch of saffron can be used as a liquid body wash. Let it sit on your body for 2-5 minutes and then cleanse it with a scrub or any soap bar that contains glycerine. This is the best way to use raw milk in summer as it helps remove tanning as well.' Since it's unpasteurized, it carries a risk of bacterial contamination, which is especially concerning for those with compromised skin barriers. 'A short-contact application, like using it as a gentle cleanser or part of a face mask that's rinsed off quickly, is the safest method. Mixing it with other soothing ingredients like multani mitti or oats can also reduce the risk of irritation,' says Dr Bhavik Dhir, Consultant dermatology, PSRI Hospital He further advises not to use it as a toner or leave it on the face for long hours, especially in summer when skin is already prone to sweating and environmental stress. Also, raw milk that's been left out at room temperature should be avoided as it can harbour bacteria that might worsen skin issues. Dermatologist Dr Kiran Seth suggests hassle-free DIY hair and skincare tricks. However, she emphasises using raw milk only about once a week.
Hindustan Times
23-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
In flight skincare tips: Keep your skin happy 30,000 feet above
Flying might get you places, but it seriously messes with your face. Dry air, puffiness, random breakouts is not exactly the travel glow we signed up for. So, we asked pros to spill all the secrets to survive long-haul flights and how to actually keep your skin happy at 30,000 feet. Celebrity dermatologist Dr Deepali Bhardwaj explains, 'Due to low humidity, changes in cabin pressure, and shifts in humidity when landing, traveling can definitely lead to skin issues. On top of that, weather changes from city to city can stress your skin even more.' And it's not just your skin feeling sluggish. Long flights also restrict blood flow because of prolonged sitting, adding to that dreaded puffiness. Skin specialist Dr Kiran Lohia agrees. 'The air inside a plane has much lower oxygen levels and drastically reduced humidity, which means there's very little moisture in the environment — making it extremely drying for your skin,' she says. 'The most common issues people experience are dryness, sensitivity, chapped lips, and dry hands. Breakouts and puffiness can also happen because of dehydration and cabin pressure changes.' So how do you fight back? Dr. Lohia shares her non-negotiable mid-air skincare routine: Before boarding, moisturise well and don't be shy about it. She recommends using a sleeping mask loaded with hyaluronic acid or even slathering Vaseline jelly over your face, lips, elbows, knees, and hands. 'This not only locks in moisture but also prevents transepidermal water loss, keeping your skin protected and hydrated throughout the flight,' she says. Bonus tips? Dr Bhardwaj shares, 'Keep a hydrating mist on hand (think rose water, cucumber water, or an essential oil-infused spray) and try to skip heavy makeup if you're going to be in the air for hours. And once you land, don't forget to cleanse, hydrate again, and apply sunscreen — because your skin deserves a fresh start at your destination too.'
