Latest news with #NeeraNathan
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
What causes strawberry legs and 4-step shaving routine for silky, bump-free legs by Harvard-trained dermatologist
When the temperature rises, it's officially time to pull out your mini dresses, swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts—whether you're hitting the beach or just running errands. But showing off smooth skin often means reaching for your razor. And while shaving is a budget-friendly hair removal method, it can sometimes lead to pesky problems like ingrown hairs and the dreaded "strawberry legs." Dr Neera Nathan , a Harvard-trained dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, recently shared her go-to shaving routine ; it might just be the game-changer your skin needs. Shave like a pro: Harvard dermatologist 's 4-step shaving routine Step 1: Use a gentle exfoliating body wash Before shaving, it's important to prep the skin, but not with dry brushing. Dr. Neera Nathan, a Harvard-trained dermatologist, says dry brushing can be too harsh and may irritate the skin. Instead, she recommends using a gentle exfoliating body wash. Look for one with ingredients like lactic acid or salicylic acid, which help loosen dead skin cells and free any trapped hairs. This step helps your razor glide more smoothly and prevents ingrown hairs from forming. Step 2: Always use shaving cream Skipping shaving cream might save time, but it can lead to razor burn and bumps. Dr. Nathan insists that using shaving cream creates a protective barrier between your skin and the razor. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo This reduces friction, allows for a closer shave, and prevents cuts or irritation. Choose a cream that suits your skin type, something hydrating and fragrance-free is great if you have sensitive skin. The goal is to keep the shave smooth, safe, and gentle. Step 3: Apply glycolic acid spray after shaving After stepping out of the shower, the next important step is applying a glycolic acid spray. This helps prevent ingrown hairs by keeping pores clear and encouraging hair to grow outward. Glycolic acid is a type of gentle chemical exfoliant that also improves skin tone over time. Dr. Nathan recommends using a spray bottle for easy application across the legs. If your skin is sensitive, start slow and monitor how your skin reacts. Step 4: Moisturise with a urea-based lotion Finish off your routine by applying a moisturiser that contains urea. Urea not only hydrates but also helps break down rough or dry patches of skin. This keeps your legs soft, smooth, and free from flakes or irritation. It also helps soften hair regrowth, which can make your next shave even easier. Applying this moisturiser daily, especially after shaving, helps maintain that silky-smooth finish all summer long. What Causes Ingrown Hairs and Strawberry Legs in the First Place? Ingrown hairs and the dotted appearance known as "strawberry legs" can stem from several common skin issues. Understanding their causes—backed by clinical insight—can help in preventing and treating them effectively. Shaving with poor technique or tools Shaving is one of the leading causes of both ingrown hairs and strawberry legs. Using a dull or old razor increases friction and skin trauma, leading to irritation and follicular improper shaving—especially without lubrication, can cause micro-injuries that contribute to folliculitis and trapped hairs beneath the skin's surface, which appear as dark dots. Folliculitis Folliculitis is the inflammation or infection of hair follicles, often triggered by friction, shaving, waxing, or prolonged sweating in tight clothing. This condition frequently presents as itchy, acne-like bumps and may be mistaken for a breakout. Hot tubs and gym environments are common sources due to heat and bacterial exposure. Clogged pores (Open Comedones) When pores are filled with oil, dead skin, and bacteria, they can oxidise and appear as dark spots, resembling the 'strawberry seed' effect on the legs. This visual effect occurs when sebum exposed during shaving oxidises, forming small dark dots. Adolescents and people with oily skin are more prone due to higher sebum production. Dry skin and shaving irritation While dry skin doesn't directly cause strawberry legs, it exacerbates the issue. Shaving over dry, unexfoliated skin increases the likelihood of irritation and razor burn, making post-shave dots more prominent. Dryness also highlights existing follicular plugs and rough textures. Keratosis Pilaris (KP) Although technically a separate skin condition, keratosis pilaris often mimics the look of strawberry legs. It's caused by a buildup of keratin—a skin protein—that blocks hair follicles, forming small, rough bumps. Research indicates that KP is more common in people with dry or sensitive skin and tends to flare in cold or dry climates. These bumps may appear red, purple, or flesh-toned and are often mistaken for acne or folliculitis Strawberry legs are nothing to worry about now, they are often the result of clogged pores, shaving irritation, or underlying conditions like folliculitis and keratosis pilaris. But with Dr Neera Nathan's Harvard-approved 4-step shaving routine; gentle exfoliation, shaving cream, glycolic spray, and urea moisturiser—you can reduce bumps, prevent ingrown hairs, and keep your legs silky-smooth all summer long. Also Read: Hydrating vs moisturising: What's the difference and which one does your skin really need
Hindustan Times
07-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Harvard trained dermatologist shares shaving routine for silky smooth skin: No more strawberry legs or ingrown hair
When the weather gets hot, it often translates to bringing out breezy mini dresses, swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts to wear on the beach, while running errands or more. It also means shaving your legs for that smooth glow. However, this cost-effective method can often end up giving you ingrown hairs or strawberry legs. Here's the ultimate dermatologist-approved shaving routine for silky smooth skin. (Pexels) Also Read | NHS surgeon suggests easy ways to add 30 g fibre in your daily diet with fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, legumes and more What if we told you you can get rid of those pesky bumps after shaving? In a video shared on July 4, Dr Neera Nathan, Harvard-trained dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, suggested the ultimate shaving routine for silky smooth skin approved by her. She shared the steps you need to follow while shaving and also the pre- and post-care routine. How to achieve silky smooth skin after shaving? Sharing the routine, Dr Nathan wrote, 'Strawberry legs or ingrown hairs? Here's the ultimate derm-approved shaving routine for silky smooth skin.' According to her, if you want legs that are smooth like butter but get ingrown hairs every time you shave, her shaving routine will help you achieve the silky smooth skin of your dreams. Step 1: Gentle exfoliating body wash Many influencers suggest dry brushing your skin before shaving or showering. However, Dr Nathan cautioned, 'It's a little controversial, but take your dry brush and throw it in the trash instead.' Instead, as a part of your pre-shaving routine, the Harvard-trained dermatologist suggested a gentle exfoliating body wash. 'Try a gentle exfoliating body wash pre-shave to soften and loosen trapped hairs with less irritation,' she said. Step 2: Never skip shaving cream The dermat stressed to never skip shaving cream. She explained, 'You need that nice, slippery surface to minimise friction between your skin and the razor for the closest shave possible.' Step 3: Spray glycolic acid After you are done shaving and when you get out of the shower, Dr Nathan suggested popping a spray cap on your glycolic acid and spritzing it on your legs post-shave. It helps the hair grow out instead of in, she explained Step 4: Urea moisturiser Lastly, follow up the glycolic acid with a urea moisturiser to soften the hair, get rid of dead skin, and hydrate. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Elle
03-06-2025
- Health
- Elle
The 11 Best Hair Masks For Promoting Growth and Preventing Breakage
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Oftentimes, trying to make your hair grow faster feels like a Sisyphean task, regardless of how many hair growth vitamins and hair growth serums you incorporate into your daily routine. When your hair is damaged and brittle, you might find that it breaks off long before it can reach its full potential—and you're not alone. While I've had virgin hair all my life, I've seen friends who bleach and double-process their strands struggle with this problem firsthand. Their tresses just don't seem to be able to get past their shoulders. Chances are they didn't have one of the best hair masks for growth to save the day. 'Most hair masks can indirectly help with growth by protecting hair strands, moisturizing hair, and preventing breakage,' says Dr. Neera Nathan, a board-certified dermatologist and the chief dermatological advisor of Vegamour. In other words, while they don't exactly affect the growth time of your hair, they help with length retention, making sure you get to keep whatever you've grown so far with the help of 'vitamins and minerals that improve nutrient delivery and moisture,' adds Dr. Helen Reavey, a board-certified trichologist, celebrity hairstylist, and the founder of Act+ if you don't color your hair, frequent heat styling and exposure to the elements can also cause split ends and breakage. Adding a mask to your arsenal is a surefire way to arm your hair with the nutrients needed to remain strong and healthy. There are a lot of options out there, but we've narrowed them down to the top 11 with help from experts and sorting through hundreds of customer evaluations. Behold, the 13 best hair masks for growth to get shiny, bouncy, flowing hair. Mielle went beyond viral on TikTok for its Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp Hair Strengthening Oil, which nourishes the scalp to encourage hair growth. The hair mask in the same line deserves a second look, too; by strengthening parched, fragile hair with biotin, aloe, and honey, it helps stop strands from breaking faster than you can grow them. Key ingredients: Biotin, aloe, honey, essential oils Size: 12 oz. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'Whenever my hair is limp, lifeless, and weak, this is the refresher that helps revive my strands. The texture is thick but emulsifies to a creamy milk consistency when activated with water. Post-shower, my hair is softer and primed for the next style.'—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor 'The Vegamour HYDR-8 Deep Moisture Repair Mask is a great option because it contains natural oils that can penetrate the hair shaft to protect bonds and deeply moisturize,' says Dr. Nathan. Another helpful ingredient is the vegan keratin alternative, which leaves hair both stronger and shinier. Key ingredients: Karmatin, amino acids, marula oil, moringa seed oil, milk thistle Size: 5 fl. oz. Vegamour rating: 4.9/5 stars A Vegamour reviewer says: 'This hair mask is so good. First, I love the natural smell of this product. The mask is great and leaves my hair so smooth and hydrated. It's perfect if you have damaged hair as it helps with restoring your hair. I've been using it for a month and loving it!' When you have fine hair, you might be more likely to avoid rich hair masks that feel like they'll weigh your hair down. This option from Ouai is geared toward aiding you on your journey to healthy, hydrated hair without making it fall flat—a testament to its carefully formulated blend of shea butter, panthenol, keratin, and protein. Key ingredients: Shea butter, panthenol, hydrolyzed keratin and protein Size: 8 oz. Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars A Sephora reviewer says: 'I love this hair mask! It makes my hair smell so good. and it makes it also really soft! It doesn't really even take long—five to seven minutes, and it works wonders. If you have dead and dry hair, I would recommend and 100 percent buy it again!' This Act+Acre mask is bursting with fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins, which help to revive damaged strands and fried ends. The formula also contains antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, which not only wreak havoc on your skin but also your hair. 'It's light enough to be used daily, while still being deeply hydrating and moisturizing,' says Dr. Reavey. Key ingredients: Castor oil, glycerin, shea butter Size: 4.5 oz. Act+Acre rating: 4.8/5 stars An Act+Acre reviewer says: 'I have thin, dry hair that looks brittle and dull even if I'm not using heat. Three weeks with this product and I've noticed a big difference in the appearance of my hair!' This mask from Colleen Rothschild is suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair. Although it contains rich oils and butters to nourish your hair, smooth frizz, and reduce split ends, the formula does its job without leaving behind a heavy, greasy residue. Key ingredients: Kokum butter, shea butter, capuacu butter, bacuri butter, argan oil, and moringa oils Size: 10 fl. oz. Colleen Rothschild rating: 4.8/5 stars A Colleen Rothschild reviewer says: 'Love this hair mask. I saw a HUGE difference just after the first use. And the scent is incredible!' The Nounou hair mask harnesses the softening and hydrating powers of Fiaschetto tomato and works its magic on processed hair to add shine and bounce. Plus, it doesn't take much of the nourishing formula to get your lengths in tip-top shape. Key ingredients: Fiaschetto tomato extract, vitamin E Size: 8.87 oz. Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'I recently started relaxing my hair again. This has been beyond amazing for keeping it feeling good, healthy, moisturized. and soft. I highly recommend buying this for any chemically treated hair. Also, despite how small it seems, a little goes a very long way. I use this every time I wash, and I'm only halfway through the jar.' This mask is to hair what electrolyte-infused water is to us. Moisture is the name of the game with the Dae Monsoon Moisture Mask, featuring a band of oils and desert botanicals that strengthen and hydrate each hair as soon as you apply it. Fittingly, the product's fragrance is inspired by the scent of a rain-touched desert. Key ingredients: Coconut oil, meadowfoam seed oil, grape seed oil, shea butter, desert botanicals Size: 8 fl. oz. Dae rating: 4.7/5 stars A Dae reviewer says: 'I love this mask! I use it twice a week on my long hair. It's long overdue for a trim, but the Monsoon Mask has kept it healthy and soft. Plus I love the smell—very botanical!' This mask has collected accolades left and right since its debut. The Deep Conditioning Mask has become a must-have for anyone whose strands are suffering from one too many chemical treatments or heat styling sessions. Just one use a week is enough to ward away breakage while you grow out your tresses. Key ingredients: Rosehip oil, algae extract, almond oil, biotin Briogeo rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I started using this mask once I began to reintroduce heat styling into my routine, and it's a lifesaver. I noticed so much less breakage, and as a result, I've been able to retain length and bouncier curls. It's also super hydrating, so whether I'm wearing my hair straight, curly, or in a protective style, my hair always feels soft and protected.'—Tasha Nicole Smith, ELLE beauty assistant Thick, flowing hair often indicates a healthy scalp microbiome. This conditioner supports that community of microorganisms that live on the top of our heads and fortifies strands, proving itself a reliable ally on your mission to achieve your hair goals. Key ingredients: Ximenia oil, protective postbiotics, arginine Size: 8.1 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'This product has been amazing for my hair. Not too light and not at all too heavy feeling after hair is styled. Also has shown a lot of new hair growth and strength!' Kérastase specifically conceived the Genesis line to reinforce the hair and make it feel softer to the touch. The Genesis hair mask is an exemplary member of the collection; ingredients like edelweiss native cells and ginger root toil behind the scenes, delivering smooth, shiny locks. Key ingredients: Edelweiss native cells and ginger root Size: 6.8 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'I love the results. My hair feels full, shiny and bouncy. Love it!' In just five minutes, Redken's mask proves why so many professional hair stylists rave about the brand. At the end of the treatment, you'll find yourself with fewer split ends and silky strands. It also incorporates biotin, niacinamide, and castor oil—all ingredients that encourage your hair to grow stronger and faster. Key ingredients: Biotin, niacinamide, castor oil Size: 8.5 fl. oz. Redken rating: A Redken reviewer says: 'I have seen less shedding since using, and I like that my hair feels much softer and more moisturized. I love the consistency of the hair mask, and I sat with a heating cap to penetrate my strands. I will continue to use and likely repurchase as I do love the results that I see currently. I have tight coils, and I straightened my hair.' Dr. Neera Nathan is a board-certified dermatologist and the chief dermatological advisor of Vegamour. Dr. Helen Reavey is a board-certified trichologist, celebrity hairstylist, and the founder of Act+Acre. Dr. Reavey recommends applying them on damp hair post-shampoo. 'Most of the active ingredients in hair masks work with water molecules to penetrate the hair shaft to lock in moisture and close the hair cuticle, which is very important,' she explains. In terms of frequency, Dr. Nathan suggests aiming for 'once a week, maybe more often for damaged hair,' she says. Since the ends are the most vulnerable to damage, Dr. Nathan says that you should focus on both the strands and the tips of your hair—but avoid the scalp. Dr. Reavey shares a secret tip: 'Replace your normal conditioner with an antioxidant-rich hair mask to add deep hydration to dry brittle hair.' As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Carol Lee spoke with trusted hair experts about hair growth. She also searched the internet for top-rated hair masks for growth, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
Hindustan Times
29-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Why are so many people in 20s and 30s getting premature grey hair? Dermatologist shares causes, what can help ‘reverse'
Did you know stress, as well as inadequate intake of essential nutrients, can accelerate the greying of your hair? Dr Neera Nathan, 'Harvard-trained dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon', took to Instagram on May 27 to talk about how premature greying of hair in people in 20s and early 30s can be attributed to several factors. Also read | Grey hair causes and treatment: Expert shares insights According to Dr Nathan, while there's no guaranteed way to reverse premature greying, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and ensuring adequate nutrition can help slow down the process. She shared a video to explain this. 'Why are we all getting so grey, so young. I am 29,' said a content creator in a video as she showed her hair. Reacting to it, Dr Nathan said, 'If you are in your 20s or early 30s and are starting to notice grey hair, then listen up – I am a dermatologist and you may have premature hair greying. I will tell you what causes it and how you may be able to reverse it.' Her's how to reverse premature grey hair, as per Dr Nathan: A post shared by Dr. Neera Nathan (@dermatologysurgeon) Sharing the causes, she said, 'First things first: You may want to get your blood drawn. Low iron, copper, vitamin B12 and thyroid levels have been linked to premature hair greying. Correcting those deficiencies may help to bring back colour to your hair.' Dr Nathan said, 'Remember when your mom told you not to stress because you would turn grey? It turns out mom was right; there is really compelling evidence that stress can make hair turn grey or white prematurely. Reversing stress can even help the pigmentation come back into your hair.' She added, 'As if you need another reason not to smoke or tan, oxidative stress from smoking in the sun damages pigment cells as the hair root, which leads to grey hair.' 'So, in addition to managing risk factors, there are some new promising topical treatments that may help to slow or even reverse grey hair. These contain antioxidants or compounds that may help protect pigment cells in the hair follicle or even stimulate pigment cells to produce more colour. It is critical to know that these treatments are probably only going to work if less than 30 percent of your hair is grey to begin with,' she concluded. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Business Mayor
27-04-2025
- Health
- Business Mayor
'Banish body odour' by using one simple product to rid unwanted smell
The solution to banishing body odour could be lurking in your bathroom cabinet. Body odour is a common issue for most of us, particularly during the sweltering summer months or post-workout. However, it's not your sweat that's the culprit – it's all about the bacteria on your skin. Sweat itself is typically scentless but, when it mingles with bacteria, particularly in areas such as your armpits and groin, it can result in a distinct, disagreeable odour. Battling this bacteria is the secret to eradicating your body odour, and one dermatologist has revealed a straightforward method to do so using just one product. Dr Neera Nathan, a Harvard-educated dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, posted a video on TikTok where she claimed hypochlorous acid is one of the top products for tackling body odour. Hypochlorous acid is naturally produced by the immune system in our bodies to ward off bacteria and infections. It's also utilised in skincare due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. If you're already using it in your skincare regimen to prevent breakouts or calm acne and eczema, you might have a bottle of the spray in your bathroom cabinet. Otherwise, it can be bought for approximately £9. Dr Nathan explained: 'If you stink during the day or reek post-workout, use hypochlorous acid. The same hypochlorous acid you spray on your face to prevent breakouts can be used on your pits, body, or feet to get rid of the bacteria that causes sweat to smell. Just spray it on any time you want to neutralise odour. You can thank me later.' Read More Doctor recommends one supplement to anyone struggling with ADHD The dermatologist elaborated further in the comments, stating that if you're unable to shower immediately after exercising, you can simply spray the product 'on top of sweat' to eliminate any unfortunate stench quickly. Dr Nathan isn't alone in her advocacy for hypochlorous acid's deodorising properties, as UK-based Doctor Aamna Adel has also advised her TikTok audience to embrace the product. She said: 'If you have body odour, stinky feet or stinky pits, then you need to try hypochlorous acid. The same hypochlorous acid that has been going viral for acne, back acne and butt acne can also be used to treat your stinky pits. Your sweat itself doesn't stink, but when it reacts with the bacteria on your skin, that's when it starts to smell. 'Hypochlorous acid is an antiseptic, so it's going to reduce the bacteria on your skin that causes your sweat to smell. It's going to help your pits and your feet literally smell like nothing. All you need to do is spray it onto your pits, spray it onto your feet, and thank me later.' How to reduce body odour Body odour is primarily influenced by the amount of bacteria on your skin. To tackle this, maintaining good hygiene through regular showers, particularly after sweating, is crucial. Utilising antibacterial soaps or body washes can aid in eliminating bacteria. Another way to minimise body odour is by donning breathable fabrics and ensuring clothes are washed frequently, coupled with the use of effective deodorants and antiperspirants. Deodorants work to neutralise the smell of body odour, while antiperspirants help to decrease sweat production. Your diet can also play a role in managing body odour. Foods such as garlic, onions, spices and alcohol can exacerbate body odour, whereas wholegrains and foods rich in probiotics can foster a healthy microbial balance. If conventional methods prove ineffective, natural remedies may be worth exploring to help reduce body odour. Diluted apple cider vinegar can help regulate your pH levels and diminish bacteria, and applying a small quantity of baking soda to dry armpits can neutralise odours. Should you have concerns about the issue, or require advice on suitable products, it's advisable to consult your GP. They can also provide guidance on whether certain methods are appropriate for you. READ SOURCE
