Author Name: Dr. Mrinmayee Mukund, Dermatologist, Cozderm Clinic
Published Date: 03-Jan-2025
Transform your skincare routine with expert-backed tips to achieve radiant, supple skin.
Indian skin, with its distinctive texture and pigmentation, thrives best with a tailored approach to care. To maintain soft, radiant, and supple skin, consistency is key. Here are the top five habits, backed by dermatological expertise, to help you achieve your skin goals.
1. Hydrate Inside and Out
Most importantly, hydration begins from within. Aim to drink 2.5-3 litres of water daily to keep your skin plump and healthy. In addition to plain water, include naturally cooling drinks like coconut water, lemon-infused water, or tulsi herbal teas. These beverages not only hydrate but also provide essential electrolytes and antioxidants that benefit the skin.
Equally important is keeping your skin hydrated externally. Use moisturizers specifically formulated for Indian skin, ensuring they provide deep hydration without feeling greasy. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin are essential. For instance, Sebium Hydra is an excellent choice for acne-prone skin, while Atoderm Crème Ultra offers intense nourishment and long-lasting hydration for dry, sensitive skin. Incorporating a hydrating serum before your moisturizer can amplify the results.
2. Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable
Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging, pigmentation, and skin dullness. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is non-negotiable.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days or when staying indoors. Look for sunscreens with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are gentle on Indian skin and offer reliable protection in humid climates. Reapply every two to three hours, especially if you’re outdoors.
Moreover, you can combine sunscreen use with other protective measures like wearing wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and clothing with built-in sun protection. These habits help prevent pigmentation and ensure your skin stays radiant over time.
3. Adapt Your Skincare to Changing Weather
Indian weather varies drastically across seasons, requiring a dynamic skincare routine.
While cleansing, use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser, such as Bioderma Sebium Gel Moussant Actif, to remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Proper cleansing is essential to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
Indian skin often faces challenges due to changing weather conditions, requiring adjustments in skincare routines to maintain its suppleness. During the hot and humid summer months, lightweight, water-based moisturizers and serums are ideal for managing excess oil and sweat. As winter sets in, the focus should shift to richer creams, such as Atoderm Crème Ultra, or the addition of facial oils to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. To further combat the effects of seasonal dryness, incorporating a weekly hydrating mask can be highly beneficial, ensuring the skin remains well-nourished and resilient throughout the colder months.
4. Follow a Balanced Diet with Indian Superfoods
What you eat directly reflects on your skin and a nutrient-dense diet can significantly improve skin texture and elasticity.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Combat free radicals by including turmeric, green tea, and amla in your diet. These ingredients are rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative stress and boost its natural glow.
Healthy Fats: Incorporate ghee, almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds to provide the skin with essential fatty acids. These healthy fats maintain the skin’s lipid barrier, preventing dryness and flakiness.
Skin-Enhancing Spices: Spices like cinnamon and fenugreek have powerful skin benefits. Cinnamon improves blood circulation, delivering nutrients to the skin, while fenugreek hydrates from within and supports overall skin health.
5. Prioritize Lifestyle Habits for Skin Health
Healthy skin isn’t just about topical treatments—your lifestyle plays a significant role. Ensure 7-8 hours of quality sleep every night. During sleep, your body repairs and regenerates skin cells, keeping your complexion fresh and supple.
Similarly, chronic stress can lead to dull, lifeless skin and exacerbate conditions like acne and eczema. Incorporate yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine to manage stress effectively. Lastly, over-exfoliation, excessive facials, or using harsh products can irritate Indian skin, which is more prone to sensitivity and pigmentation. Stick to a gentle, dermatologist-approved regimen for best results.
Bonus Tips for Supple Skin