I have just grown out of my acne problem, but I am unable to get rid of the marks and scabs. Is there a quick way to heal these scabs naturally? — Anya
When acne heals, it can leave a red or hyperpigmented mark on the skin as a result of the inflammatory changes in the dermal layer. The redness is seen as the skin goes through its natural healing and remodelling process, which takes six to eight weeks. Kojic acid (a natural skin lightener derived from mushroom extract), arbutin (aka bearberry extract), and even vitamin C (ascorbic acid) are the ingredients you should look for in over-the-counter creams. Creams and medications can improve mild scarring, but most acne scars are best treated with a combination of peels and skin resurfacing treatments.
I am in my early 50s and I have heard a lot about these facial rollers that can prevent skin ageing. Do jade and quartz rollers really work? Can you suggest some anti-ageing skin remedies? — Vijaya
Using jade stone in a face roller is an age-old Chinese technique that is being rediscovered in the beauty industry. A face roller with jade or rose quartz can improve circulation, lymphatic drainage, thereby enhancing skin quality. Meanwhile, rollers with needles are known to renew the skin cells and help reduce acne scars. However, jade rollers do not guarantee long-term benefits, as they don’t penetrate beyond the epidermis. But when used on a regular basis, it can reduce puffiness on the face, especially under the eyes. Anti-ageing skin remedies can vary from non-surgical skin firming treatments to Botox, dermal fillers and thread lift.
I have dry skin and want to know if body scrubs will help soften my skin. Is there any way I can make my own scrub at home and if yes, what ingredients should I use? — Madhavi
Exfoliation will help in rejuvenating the skin and when you combine the same with hydrating creams, it will benefit you. Using a loofah with your soap or shower gel will be effective for gentle exfoliation. Homemade facial scrubs do a great job of scrubbing away the top layer and revealing healthy, plump and younger-looking skin. The pulp of overripe bananas is a good base for a hydrating skin mask. Mash two bananas and add a tsp of honey or lime juice to it. Mix it well. Add a few drops of rose water to mask the smell and apply on your body. You can leave it on for 10-12 minutes. Here’s a step-by-step way to apply the pack:
- Cleanse the skin using a loofah and shower gel.
- Take a generous amount of the mask, layer it on your skin and gently rub in circular motions. Leave it on for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, wash this off with cold water. Pat dry.
Banana will hydrate the skin and honey, being a humectant, helps lock the moisture in. You will find your skin clear, moisturised and rejuvenated instantly as soon as you wash off the pack.
(Founder of SkinLab, Dr Jamuna Pai is a cosmetic physician)