Gen Z sees skincare as a simple way to care for themselves
A clay mask isn't just for oil control, it's 10 minutes of quiet. A hydrating mist isn't only for glow, it's a midday mental break. 'I don't always meditate or journal,' says Diksha Nandal, 21, a student, 'but I never skip my skincare. It keeps me grounded.'MENTAL HEALTH, NOT MIRRORS, IS DRIVING THE SHIFTA deeper awareness of mental health, wellness, and individuality is shaping Gen Z's approach to beauty. According to a 2024 report, nearly 70% of Gen Z consumers view skincare as part of their self-care practice, not simply a cosmetic concern.In this new lexicon of beauty, a clay mask is no longer just about oil control; it's ten minutes of quiet. A face mist isn't just about dewiness; it's a micro-reset during a stressful WFH day.With user-friendly packaging, clean formulations, and accessible yet clinical language, they are carving out a space that balances function with feeling. Their range includes ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and bakuchiol, active components that tackle real Indian skin concerns like hyperpigmentation and sensitivity without compromising on sensorial delight.Think jelly cleansers that melt on contact, or serums that feel like silk. As Queenie puts it, we look at skincare as a ritual of self-connection. It's about efficacy, yes, but also about how the product makes you feel.'BEAUTY THAT CALMS THE NERVOUS SYSTEMThis shift isn't just emotional, it's physiological. Studies show that tactile beauty rituals such as applying serums, massaging moisturisers, or layering toners can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety. For Gen Z, this matters deeply.On TikTok and Instagram, creators speak openly about burnout, emotional dysregulation, and digital fatigue. Skincare, for many, becomes more than a habit—it becomes a form of gentle resistance and recovery.RECLAIMING TRADITION, REVIVING STILLNESSThis ritualistic lens isn't entirely new. Ancient Indian beauty traditions from natural masks to rosewater tonics have long emphasised mindfulness. The difference now is that modern skincare is marrying tradition with technology, ritual with research.advertisementAnd in doing so, it's offering Gen Z more than just better skin. It's offering a sacred pause, a moment of connection, and a quiet assertion of self in an otherwise noisy world.'True beauty lies in how something makes you feel,' Queenie reflects. 'When skincare becomes a daily reminder to pause, breathe, and connect that's when it works.'- Ends
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Economic Times
an hour ago
- Economic Times
Govt gives BIS exemption to parts used in medical devices for now
Synopsis The steel ministry has temporarily suspended its notification requiring Indian standards compliance for raw materials used in medical device manufacturing, offering relief to the industry. They will issue no-objection certificates for importing special stainless steel grades and allow foreign suppliers six months to obtain Bureau of Indian Standards registration. Agencies Medical devices (Image for representation) In a major relief to the medical devices industry, the ministry of steel has agreed to put in abeyance its notification that said raw materials used in the manufacturing of finished and semi-finished steel products must comply with Indian a meeting held with medical devices manufacturers, the ministry agreed to issue no-objection certificates on a case-to-case basis for the import of special grades of SS strips for making surgical blades and scalpels, industry executives told ET. It would also give six months for the foreign suppliers of these material to get registered with the Bureau of Indian Standards, they the new rule the ministry notified in June, materials like hot-rolled steel and ingots manufactured abroad for Indian buyers must get BIS certification. This rule covers the special grades of steel used in the manufacturing of medical devices. Since the requirement of these raw materials is small, they are not made locally. Friday's meeting, held at the ministry and attended by the steel secretary and managing director of Steel Authority of India (SAIL), came after ET reported medical devices manufacturers' concerns on the latest mandate. The meeting also decided to work on local manufacturing of these special grade steel. "AiMeD will work with SAIL to indigenise the production of these special low-volume stainless steel raw materials-strips, tubing and wires," said Rajiv Nath, forum coordinator of the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) and managing director of Hindustan Syringes & Medical Devices. "We are very thankful to the government for being responsive and empathetic to our genuine concerns and for averting a potential supply chain and health care crisis," he said.A notification based on Friday's meeting is likely to be issued soon, a person in the know told reported on Friday that India may see a shortage of surgical blades, needles, endoscopes and other medical products in the coming days, as industry executives expressed their inability to follow the rules mandated by the steel ministry for importing their raw manufacturers that ET spoke with said they have to rely on imports for certain steel pipes, tubes, steel strips, steel capillary tubes. Local manufacturing of these items is not commercially feasible for the vendors since these are required only in small quantities.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Govt gives BIS exemption to parts used in medical devices for now
In a major relief to the medical devices industry, the ministry of steel has agreed to put in abeyance its notification that said raw materials used in the manufacturing of finished and semi-finished steel products must comply with Indian standards. At a meeting held with medical devices manufacturers, the ministry agreed to issue no-objection certificates on a case-to-case basis for the import of special grades of SS strips for making surgical blades and scalpels, industry executives told ET. It would also give six months for the foreign suppliers of these material to get registered with the Bureau of Indian Standards, they said. Under the new rule the ministry notified in June, materials like hot-rolled steel and ingots manufactured abroad for Indian buyers must get BIS certification. This rule covers the special grades of steel used in the manufacturing of medical devices. Since the requirement of these raw materials is small, they are not made locally. Friday's meeting, held at the ministry and attended by the steel secretary and managing director of Steel Authority of India (SAIL), came after ET reported medical devices manufacturers' concerns on the latest mandate. The meeting also decided to work on local manufacturing of these special grade steel. "AiMeD will work with SAIL to indigenise the production of these special low-volume stainless steel raw materials-strips, tubing and wires," said Rajiv Nath, forum coordinator of the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) and managing director of Hindustan Syringes & Medical Devices. "We are very thankful to the government for being responsive and empathetic to our genuine concerns and for averting a potential supply chain and health care crisis," he said. A notification based on Friday's meeting is likely to be issued soon, a person in the know told ET. ET reported on Friday that India may see a shortage of surgical blades, needles, endoscopes and other medical products in the coming days, as industry executives expressed their inability to follow the rules mandated by the steel ministry for importing their raw material. Several manufacturers that ET spoke with said they have to rely on imports for certain steel pipes, tubes, steel strips, steel capillary tubes. Local manufacturing of these items is not commercially feasible for the vendors since these are required only in small quantities. Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Indian Express
4 hours ago
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Boiled eggs vs paneer cubes: Which works better as a protein snack?
When it comes to quick, protein-rich snacks, two options often top the list in Indian households — boiled eggs and paneer cubes. Both are widely loved for their convenience and high protein content, but how do they compare in terms of nutrition, satiety, and overall health benefits? Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educator, tells 'When comparing 2 boiled eggs to 100 grams of paneer as protein snacks, both pack a serious nutritional punch, but with subtle differences. Two boiled eggs give you about 13 grams of protein, 10-11 grams of fat, and roughly 155-160 calories. Eggs are prized for their rich stores of vitamin B12, D, choline, and selenium. On the other hand, 100 grams of paneer offers a bit more protein — about 18 grams — but comes with a higher fat content (19-21 grams) and a calorie count closer to 265. Paneer excels as a source of calcium and phosphorus, making it great for bone health, although it's a bit lower in certain vitamins compared to eggs.' For those aiming to lose weight, Malhotra states, boiled eggs typically make a better snack. They're lower in calories and fat, helping you feel satisfied without adding too much to your daily intake. Eggs also deliver a complete, high-quality protein that keeps you feeling full, supporting muscle maintenance during weight loss. Paneer, being richer in both protein and calories, is fantastic for muscle building — especially for vegetarians or those looking to gain lean mass. 'The higher fat and calorie content in paneer can be a positive for those needing extra energy, but it may slow weight loss if not portioned thoughtfully,' states Malhotra. When it comes to how your body uses the protein from these foods, Malhotra shares that there are a few differences. 'Eggs provide a complete protein with all essential amino acids and boast excellent bioavailability — meaning your body absorbs and uses their protein very efficiently. Egg protein also digests quickly, making eggs ideal after a workout for muscle recovery.' Paneer, meanwhile, is rich in casein protein, which digests more slowly and provides a steady supply of amino acids, supporting muscle repair over a longer period, such as overnight. However, those with lactose intolerance should be cautious, as paneer may cause discomfort, concludes Malhotra. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
