Expert tips to build the perfect skincare routine for Indian skin
In a country where skincare often takes a backseat to internal health, the launch of the Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report marks a turning point. India today spoke with Dr. Jaishree Sharad, a leading dermatologist with over 26 years of experience, who notes that Indians are finally waking up to the importance of understanding their skin. 'People used to think skin didn't matter,' she says, 'but courtesy of social media, even if for the wrong reasons, the awareness has begun.'advertisementINDIAN SKIN: UNIQUELY COMPLEX, UNIQUELY BEAUTIFULThe report, based on a survey of 800 women across North, South, East, and West India (aged 20–40), reveals crucial insights: Indian skin is significantly different from Caucasian skin. It has five times larger pores, four times denser pore distribution, and produces 50% more melanin. This makes it more prone to tanning, pigmentation, and acne, yet slower to show signs of aging like wrinkles, thanks to higher collagen levels.THE FIRST SIGN OF AGING ISN'T A WRINKLE"One of the most common misconceptions," says Dr. Sharad, is that ageing only starts when lines appear. 'Indian skin doesn't show fine lines as early as Caucasian skin does, so people assume they're not ageing. "But hyperpigmentation is our first visible sign of ageing.' Whether it's melasma, sun spots, or post-acne marks, these pigmentation issues are more than just cosmetic—they're cellular signs of skin ageing.advertisementDr. Sharad strongly advises against blindly following skincare trends from the West or Korea. 'We are not Korean. "Our skin, diet, and climate are not Korean,' she emphasises. Many Indian consumers fall into the trap of using products that work for their favourite influencer or friend, ignoring their skin type, climate, and biological needs.Another myth? That oily skin doesn't need moisturiser. 'Oiliness and hydration are not the same,' says Dr. Sharad. Indian skin has fewer natural moisturising factors (NMFs) and a weaker skin barrier, which means even oily skin can be dehydrated. She recommends moisturisers with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, and stresses that sunscreen is non-negotiable—even on rainy days or indoors. UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass. Blue light from your laptop and phone can cause pigmentation too.'THE DAMAGE TO DIY SKINCARE AND SCRUBBING HABITSIndians often rely on traditional home remedies, scrubs, loofahs, and pumice stones that can damage the skin's barrier, leading to irritation and pigmentation. 'I'm not against scrubs,' Dr. Sharad explains, 'but your skin is. Friction stimulates melanin production.' Harsh exfoliation often backfires, especially on Indian skin that's already more reactive due to melanin sensitivity.True skincare is holistic. Dr. Sharad advocates for a routine that includes balanced nutrition, reduced sugar intake, less caffeine, and stress management. All of these reduce free radicals in the body that otherwise break down collagen and damage the skin. 'People think black coffee makes your skin glow. It dehydrates you.'advertisementWhat sets the Dermafique products apart, according to Dr. Vijay from ITC, is their India-first approach—formulated, tested, and proven in Indian climatic conditions on Indian skin types. 'Every product is dermatologically tested,' he says, 'and remains effective from the first to the last day of its shelf life.'EMBRACE INDIAN SKIN, DON'T FIGHT ITDr. Sharad's parting message is clear: 'Let's stop chasing Korean facials or Western skincare ideals. Let's understand our own skin, nourish it, protect it, and most importantly, embrace it.' The Indian Skin Health Report is not just a study—it's a wake-up call for the nation to take skin health seriously, the right way.
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