Latest news with #JaishreeSharad
India Today
15-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
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 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 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 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 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.
India Today
06-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
India's skincare revolution: Science-backed, skin-specific solutions
India's skincare industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by a rising demand for personalised, science-backed solutions. As environmental stressors like pollution, humidity, and climate change intensify—and as consumers become more informed—the need for skincare tailored specifically to Indian skin has never been more urgent. In an exclusive conversation with India Today, the renowned celebrity dermatologist offered deep insights into how this change is unfolding across the country. INDIAN SKIN IS BIOLOGICALLY DISTINCT According to Dr Sharad, Indian skin is biologically different from Caucasian or East Asian skin types. With naturally higher melanin levels, Indian skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation and uneven tone. 'We must stop importing a one-size-fits-all solution from the West,' she asserted. She stressed the need for formulations that understand and respond to Indian skin's unique physiology. Dr Jaishree Sharad, at the launch of the ITC Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report, said that the growing awareness amongst Indian consumers is prompting a vital evolution within the industry. India's tropical climate, high humidity, and escalating pollution levels pose unique challenges for skin health. 'Urban consumers in India face both environmental damage and lifestyle-induced stress on their skin, and this should directly influence product development,' Dr Sharad explained. Localised skincare isn't just a trend—it's a necessity. EDUCATED CONSUMERS NEED EXPERT GUIDANCE While there's been a notable rise in consumer awareness, Dr Sharad noted a gap in scientific education. 'People are reading labels and experimenting with ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, but many are still influenced by beauty trends rather than skin science,' she said. 'People need guidance—not just from influencers but from trained professionals who understand skin at a clinical level.' Dr Sharad lauded brands that are beginning to invest in dermatological research rooted in Indian realities. 'Clinical studies conducted in Indian weather, on Indian skin, are the future,' she emphasised. She called for more use of indigenous ingredients, localised trials, and collaborative efforts with dermatologists to develop effective, trustworthy products. From teen acne to adult skin barrier repair, the dermatologist highlighted personalisation as the future of skincare. 'Skincare has moved beyond vanity—it is about preventive care, wellness, and long-term skin health,' she said. Products must not only target cosmetic outcomes but also focus on sustained skin resilience. SKINCARE IS NOW A HEALTHCARE CONVERSATION With the rise of wellness culture, the line between dermatology and healthcare is fading. Dr Sharad believes skin should be viewed and treated as an organ, just like the heart or lungs. 'It's time we see skin as an organ, not a canvas. "Brands that focus on health, sustainability, and trust will lead the next decade,' she concluded. Recognising this shift, Dermafique has launched a skincare range formulated specifically for Indian skin. Merging scientific rigour with localised research, the brand addresses concerns like pigmentation, sensitivity, and pollution damage. Its alignment with dermatological research and Indian-specific trials positions it at the forefront of this new skincare era.
