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Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Monsoon skincare: 5 DIY face masks and scrubs to treat common skin problems this rainy season
The Indian monsoon brings cooling rains and cosy weather, but it can also cause chaos for your skin. High humidity, temperature swings, and dampness can trigger acne, oiliness, clogged pores, and dullness. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Fortunately, you don't need expensive products to fight back. These science-supported DIY face masks and scrubs, using kitchen-friendly ingredients, can help rebalance your skin during Sawan. 5 DIY face masks to fix common monsoon skin problems Potato and papaya glow mask for dull, pigmented skin Source: Wikipedia This two-step treatment starts with potato juice, rich in catecholase, an enzyme known to reduce pigmentation and even out skin tone. Rub freshly grated potato juice onto your face (including the under-eye area) and leave it for five minutes. Next, blend ripe papaya with plain yoghurt and a drop of lavender essential oil. Papaya's papain enzymes and natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) promote cell turnover, while yoghurt hydrates and soothes. Lavender oil helps reduce bacteria that cause acne. Leave this brightening mask on for 15 minutes before rinsing off. Multani mitti and aloe vera purifying scrub for oily skin and clogged pores Source: Wikipedia Multani mitti (Fuller's earth) is a powerful clay that absorbs excess oil and tightens skin. When mixed with aloe vera gel, it forms a soothing, clarifying scrub perfect for humid-weather congestion. Apply this paste to your face and rinse after 15 minutes. Fuller's earth improves microcirculation, while aloe vera, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, calms redness and hydrates skin without clogging pores. Orange peel and rosewater soothing mask for sensitive, red, or irritated skin Source: Wikipedia For skin affected by acne inflammation or sun exposure, this calming blend is a game-changer. Orange peel powder is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which promote collagen and reduce pigmentation. Mixed with rosewater, an ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties, this DIY mask cools, soothes, and reduces redness. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Apply a thin layer and rinse off after 10–15 minutes. Turmeric and milk anti-acne mask for breakouts and bacterial spots Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps reduce inflammation and fights acne-causing bacteria like P. acnes. Combine turmeric powder with raw milk, which contains lactic acid—a gentle AHA that exfoliates and clears dead skin buildup. Apply to breakout-prone areas and leave for 10–15 minutes. This mask helps clear blemishes while supporting skin regeneration and reducing redness. Rice water and cucumber cooling pack for heat rashes and irritation Source: Wikipedia During Sawan, heat rashes and inflammation are common due to sticky weather. This hydrating mix of rice water, cucumber juice, and yoghurt offers instant relief. Rice water contains ferulic acid and allantoin, both known for reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Cucumber juice hydrates and reduces swelling, while yoghurt provides a cooling, moisturising base. Apply this blend generously and rinse off after 15–20 minutes. Pro tips to use monsoon DIY face masks safely and effectively Always apply masks on clean, dry skin. Do a patch test before full application to rule out allergies. Use fresh ingredients—avoid storing leftovers. Limit usage to 2–3 times a week to prevent over-exfoliation. These easy, effective monsoon skincare recipes can be a nourishing part of your Shravan self-care ritual. Whether you're battling acne, oiliness, or irritation, each remedy supports skin health naturally, guided by ancient tradition and backed by modern understanding. Also Read:
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Tried everything for acne? Here's why azelaic acid might be the missing ingredient
Have you tried every acne treatment under the sun – cleansers, serums, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, even prescription meds – only to wake up to the same stubborn spots or fresh flare-ups? If your skincare journey feels like an endless war zone, azelaic acid might just be the unsung hero your routine needs. This powerhouse ingredient, naturally produced by skin yeast and derived from grains like barley and rye, has been stealthily gaining fanfare among dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts, but not yet overhyped. Why? Because azelaic acid strikes a rare balance: it's potent enough to tackle acne, redness, hyperpigmentation, and clogged pores, yet gentle enough for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or pregnancy-safe skin. Read on to learn more about why azelaic acid is more than a trendy buzzword and how it works through science-backed mechanisms. What is Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that is found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley and is also produced by a yeast that lives on the skin. It's a versatile skincare ingredient with multiple benefits, including treating acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. Azelaic acid works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, reducing inflammation, and helping to unclog pores. What makes Azelaic Acid special? Multifunctional power ingredient: Azelaic acid, according to research , is a dicarboxylic acid that's comedolytic (unclogs pores), keratolytic (loosens dead skin cells), antibacterial against acne-causing Propionibacterium acnes, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant-rich – all in one. Gentler alternative: Unlike harsher acids (AHAs/BHAs) or benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid is well-tolerated even by those with eczema, rosacea, or sensitive skin. Clinically proven efficacy: In randomized trials , 20% azelaic acid reduced non-inflammatory lesions by ~56% and inflammatory lesions by ~72% over 8–12 weeks, outperforming placebo, with similar results against tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin, and oral antibiotics. How it works Kills acne-causing bacteria: As per research , targets P. acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, messes with their protein synthesis, thinning acne-causing bacterial loads. Calms inflammation: Blocks inflammatory triggers like TLR‑2, and quells cytokine and ROS production – especially important for inflamed papules and pustules. Normalizes skin turnover: Prevents excess keratin build-up, reducing comedone formation. Reduces oil production: Sebum levels drop and remain suppressed weeks after treatment, helping control acne-root causes. Fades acne marks and evens tone: Inhibits tyrosinase and melanocyte activity, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and erythema. Tips to maximize results Start low, go slow: OTC strengths (10%) are ideal entry points. Prescription forms (15–20%) offer faster results but may mildly irritate. Apply consistently: Twice-daily use, morning and night, yields the best results – lower sensitivity users may alternate at first. Layer wisely: Pair with moisturizer and SPF. It works well alongside AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids – just monitor your skin's tolerance. Be patient: Clinical results typically show up at 8–12 weeks, though many report initial improvements in just one month. Expect mild irritation: Some users experience transient burning, itching, or redness, usually minor and manageable. Who should try it? Hormonal or inflammatory acne sufferers can find relief as this solution is effective on cysts, papules, and pustules. It is also gentle enough for those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, offering soothing yet powerful benefits. Additionally, anyone battling post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or uneven skin tone will appreciate the dual-action formula that addresses both breakouts and brown or red marks. Furthermore, this product is a safe and non-teratogenic alternative for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, providing peace of mind when many active ingredients are off-limits. Potential drawbacks and precautions Every perk comes with its fair share of cons. Azelaic acid is no exception. It acts more slowly than benzoyl peroxide or topical retinoids. It may cost more, especially prescription formulas, though OTC versions offer high value. Mild irritation is a possibility; start every other day and moisturize generously. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Individual skin responses to azelaic acid may vary – begin with a patch test, introduce it gradually, and monitor for irritation, dryness, or redness. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, have underlying skin conditions, or are using other actives, consult a licensed healthcare provider or dermatologist before use. Discontinue immediately if adverse reactions occur, and seek professional advice. Always follow product instructions, maintain sun protection, and store products as directed. 'No excuse for violence...' US on attacks against Indian students
