Keep Your Skin Hydrated With These Ingredients This Summer
1. Hyaluronic Acid - Hyaluronic acid is one of the famous skincare ingredients, a potent humectant that can help retain moisture, thus making the skin look hydrated and plump. It is a versatile skincare ingredient to be used on all kinds of skin types. With its regular usage, you can diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, the signs of premature aging.
2. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) - Niacinamide is quite famous skincare ingredient possessing anti-inflammatory properties. It works well to deal with acne or skin redness. It also has the potential to balance out the skin's sebum levels.
3. Cucumber - Cucumber is a hydrating vegetable, mostly composed of water, and its regular consumption helps you achieve a natural glow. Also the vitamins and minerals in cucumber helps to soothe down the irritated skin and is perfect for sun days.
4. Coconut Water - Coconut water is the jewel for hot and humid summers. It's full of potassium which assists in maintaining fluid balance in the body, keeping the skin hydrated.
5. Aloe Vera - Aloe vera is a natural coolant and gives instant relief from sunburns. This is because it is basically 99 percent water and makes the skin look elastic, flexible and hydrated.
6. Lemon - Loaded with vitamin C, lemon is highly beneficial for delivering a healthy and radiant skin. You can begin your day with a glass of warm lemon water which will detoxify your gut, delivering a clear skin.
7. Green Tea - Naturally full of antioxidants, green tea possesses skin protective benefits by scavenging free radicals. Also it is known to reduce under eye puffiness and the appearance of dark circles.
8. Mint - Mint leaves are renowned for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are soothing in nature, both for the gut as well as skin. Adding mint leaves to your diet in summers keeps your body cool from inside out.
9. Sabja Seeds (Basil Seeds) - Sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds, are the seeds derived from the Holy Basil. They are of high significance in the summer season as they are natural coolants by providing essential nutrients namely fibre, iron, protein etc.
10. Papaya - This fruit is well-packed with vitamins and minerals and is one of the greatest sources of beta carotenoids, the natural precursor of vitamin A. These nutrients make it a great source for achieving healthy skin.
Conclusion -
Add these hydrating foods to your diet this summer and say hello to healthy, happy skin.
(Dr Ameesha Mahajan, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Founder, Eden Skin Clinic)
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hans India
2 days ago
- Hans India
Why Kitchen Staples Can Beat Costly K-Beauty Products
When it comes to achieving glowing, healthy skin, Korean beauty (K-beauty) products are often the go-to for skincare enthusiasts. With their elaborate routines and high-tech formulations, it's no surprise that K-beauty has taken the global skincare market by storm. But what if the secret to radiant skin isn't tucked inside an expensive serum bottle—but already sitting in your kitchen? From ancient Ayurvedic remedies to grandmother-approved rituals, natural skincare using everyday kitchen ingredients has stood the test of time. Unlike many commercial products packed with artificial additives and harsh chemicals, these humble ingredients are gentle, nourishing, and highly effective. They target concerns like dullness, dryness, pigmentation, and breakouts—without burning a hole in your wallet. Here are five powerful kitchen staples that deliver glow-boosting results, often better than expensive store-bought alternatives: 1. Honey – Nature's Hydration Hero Say goodbye to costly sheet masks. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin. Rich in antibacterial and soothing properties, it's ideal for calming breakouts while deeply hydrating. Apply a thin layer of raw honey on damp skin for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. For added radiance, try mixing it with a few drops of lemon juice or rose water. 2. Turmeric – The Brightening Powerhouse Known for its anti-inflammatory compound curcumin, turmeric is a natural glow-getter. It tackles pigmentation, evens out skin tone, and revives dull complexions. Mix half a teaspoon with two tablespoons of curd or honey and apply it as a face mask once a week. Just don't overdo it—turmeric is potent and can stain. 3. Aloe Vera – The OG Soothing Gel While snail mucin creams are popular in K-beauty, aloe vera offers a pure, plant-based alternative. Scoop out the gel from a fresh aloe leaf, refrigerate it briefly, and apply it to your face. Its hydrating and healing properties help soothe irritation and replenish tired skin. Combine it with rose water for a cooling face mask. 4. Cucumber – Instant Refreshment Hydrating and anti-inflammatory, cucumber is a staple in both traditional remedies and commercial skincare. Rather than relying on synthetic extracts, blend fresh cucumber and apply the juice using a cotton pad as a natural toner. It helps reduce puffiness and soothes sun-stressed skin. You can also store it in the fridge for a refreshing daily spritz. 5. Besan (Gram Flour) – Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliator While enzyme peels are all the rage in Korean skincare, besan has long been used in Indian households for exfoliation and tan removal. It's gentle, natural, and doesn't strip the skin of essential oils. Mix it with milk or yoghurt and a pinch of turmeric to form a paste. Use it twice a week as a mild scrub or a revitalising mask. You don't need to spend thousands on imported skincare for a healthy glow. Sometimes, the most effective beauty secrets are right in your kitchen—natural, affordable, and time-tested.
India Today
2 days ago
- India Today
Tired of frizz? Try these 7 nourishing DIY hair masks at home
Frizzy hair is often the result of dryness, humidity, lack of moisture, or damaged cuticles. While there are plenty of commercial anti-frizz products available, nothing beats the nourishment of homemade hair masks using natural ingredients that are 7 easy, chemical-free hair masks you can make at home to tame frizz, restore moisture, and bring back BANANA AND HONEY MASKWhy it works Bananas are rich in natural oils and potassium that soften hair and improve elasticity. Honey is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains to useMash 1 ripe bananaAdd 1 tablespoon of honeyMix well and apply from roots to endsLeave on for 30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water2. AVOCADO AND OLIVE OIL MASKWhy it worksAvocado is full of fatty acids and vitamins that deeply nourish hair. Olive oil seals in moisture and helps smoothen the hair to useMash half a ripe avocadoMix with 1 tablespoon olive oilApply to damp hair and leave for 20–30 minutesRinse off with a mild shampoo3. CURD AND ALOE VERA MASKWhy it worksCurd (yogurt) adds moisture and reduces roughness. Aloe vera soothes the scalp and conditions the hair without weighing it to useTake 2 tablespoons curdMix with 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (fresh or store-bought)Apply evenly and keep on for 30–40 minutesWash off thoroughly4. COCONUT MILK AND FENUGREEK MASKWhy it worksCoconut milk strengthens and hydrates hair, while fenugreek (methi) tackles dryness and frizz to useSoak 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds overnight and grind into a pasteAdd 2–3 tablespoons coconut milkApply from scalp to ends and leave for 30 minutesRinse well5. EGG AND CASTOR OIL MASKWhy it worksEggs are protein-rich and help repair damaged hair. Castor oil adds intense hydration and reduces breakage and to useWhisk 1 whole eggAdd 1 tablespoon castor oilApply on hair, cover with a shower cap, and wait 30–40 minutesRinse with cool water (to avoid cooking the egg)6. ALOE VERA AND ARGAN OIL MASKWhy it worksAloe vera calms the scalp and smoothens hair texture. Argan oil is rich in vitamin E and gives an instant boost of shine and to useMix 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel with 1 teaspoon argan oilApply evenly and leave on for 30 minutesRinse with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo7. OATMEAL, MILK, AND HONEY MASKadvertisementWhy it worksOatmeal acts as a gentle cleanser and moisturiser, while milk and honey deeply nourish frizzy to useBlend 2 tablespoons oats with 3 tablespoons milk and 1 tablespoon honeyApply the paste to clean hair and scalpLeave on for 20–25 minutesRinse thoroughlyTIPS FOR BEST RESULTSAlways apply masks to slightly damp or towel-dried hairUse a shower cap to lock in warmth and moistureRinse with cool or lukewarm water to seal the hair cuticleApply once or twice a week for noticeable resultsAvoid sulphate shampoos that strip natural oilsDIY hair masks are an affordable, natural way to combat frizz, especially when used consistently. Whether your hair is curly, wavy, or straight, these masks provide deep nourishment, smooth texture, and help restore your hair's natural bounce and shine without any harsh chemicals.- EndsMust Watch
NDTV
2 days ago
- NDTV
Lung Cancer No More Smokers' Disease: Experts Reveal How Everyone Is Affected, Even Children
August 1 is annually observed as World Lung Cancer Day to raise awareness about the type of cancer that originates in the lungs and spreads to other parts of the body. Smoking is one of the primary causes of lung cancer, but alarming trends suggest that lung cancer can "no longer be seen as a smoker's disease" as it is affecting men, women and even children who don't smoke. "While smoking remains the leading cause, globally and in India, a concerning number of patients diagnosed today have never smoked a cigarette, and it's on the rise," Dr Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, Lead Consultant and Head of Department - Interventional Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, told NDTV. This growing trend is supported by Indian studies and global data that suggests a change being driven by environmental, occupational and/or genetic risk factors. A Lancet study, published in 2022, found that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) caused an increase in the incidence rate of non-small cell lung cancer in non-smokers in urban and industrialised regions. In most Indian cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kanpur, pollution levels have become too high to be considered acceptable by the World Health Organization (WHO). Air pollution would not merely irritate lung tissues; it can also damage DNA, thus, potentially creating cancer by the chronic exposure to pollutants such as soot, nitrogen dioxide, and benzene. Are Children At Risk? Can They Get Lung Cancer Or Other Severe Lung Diseases? Dr Shishir Bhatnagar, Senior Consultant - Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Noida, told NDTV that lung cancer as such in children is "not very common". The cancers in the lungs are basically carcinoids, adenocarcinomas and subtle pleuropulmonary blastomas. Most of these cancers may have their origin rarely from smoking and genetic factors. "More commonly in children, the lungs are affected by inflammation and infections. The inflammations are basically contributory and they are responsible for creating conditions like asthma and bronchitis," Dr Bhatnagar said. "Infections like bronchopneumonias, bronchitis, bacterial bronchitis and bronchiolitis are also contributed to by the environmental factors, including smoking and environmental smoke and dust." The smoking at the microbiological level can affect the immune system and weaken it by affecting the annular macrophage system. It also disturbs the microbiome of the airways, thereby increasing the biological injuries in them. At the cellular level, it affects the DNA and makes it more prone to inflammation and cancer. According to Dr Bhatnagar, the bigger issue is the serious lung harm from environmental exposures during early childhood. Children who live in high pollution neighbourhoods, and/or have been exposed to passive smoke, unclean fuels, or multiple respiratory infections as infants, potentially have sustained damage to their lungs, some of which may lead to chronic disease (bronchiectasis, asthma, lung cancer) in the future. A study published in 2023 in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that children exposed to high levels of PM2.5, impaired lung function, asymmetrically slowed lung development, and had the potential for life-long impairment related to lung function. Serious Concerns Over Vaping Experts are also concerned about the rising trend of vaping. Dr Bhatnagar said that vaping is some sort of mechanism where the toxins produced are less and are not equivalent to smoking. "The toxins are less, but they have high nicotine dependence. There are very high chances that in adolescence this can become a trouble, and it is actually a problem these days," he said, further adding that vaping can contribute and can actually go on to smoking. "Children may not have early symptoms of cancer, but a persistent cough, wheezing without being diagnosed with asthma, recurrence of pneumonia, or even chest pain of unknown origin, must be taken seriously," Dr Bhatnagar said. Children must be protected from indoor air pollution, and also reduce exposure to passive smoke, while treating infections early, as lung health is often forgotten. Major Causes Of Lung Cancer The most frequent cause is smoking, responsible for more than 70 per cent of cases and 90 per cent of diagnoses. "Tobacco smoke harbours more than 60 carcinogens, and the risk is directly proportional to the intensity of smoking. The world's second-largest consumer of tobacco is India, which has 267 million consumers of tobacco, and tobacco is responsible for 27% of all cancers," Dr Vinayak Maka, Consultant - Dept of Medical Oncology, Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, told NDTV. For all causes except tobacco, environmental and occupational risk factors are important: Passive Smoking: Significantly boosts risk. Radon Gas: The Second greatest risk factor after smoking, particularly in smokers. Occupational Exposure: Chemicals like asbestos, arsenic, and beryllium raise risk, especially among smokers. Genetic Influence: Family health history is one of the major contributing factors in making a person more vulnerable. Air Pollution: A high-risk factor; Delhi alone has witnessed an increase in lung cancer cases due to pollution. Diet and Processed Foods: Studies have found that an intake of ultra-processed foods leads to a 41 per cent higher risk, undermining the role played by diet. Regular Screening And Early Detection Dr Raja Dhar, Director & HOD - Pulmonology, CMRI Kolkata, weighed in on the strength of regular screening and early detection. He told NDTV, "Regular screening is also key, particularly for those at greater risk, because it enables us to catch problems early on, when treatment works best. Lung cancer too often gets diagnosed too late, but if we can detect it early, the likelihood of successful treatment is greatly enhanced."
