Don’t let your skin take the fall

Busting common myths about skincare to create this season’s regimen

Pakistan may be a little shy when it comes to showing true seasons, but around the world this time of the year, people brace themselves for autumn and the many shades it brings.

We may think of autumn being all about falling leaves and a decrease in the intensity of summer heat but leaves are not the only things that shed and lose freshness at this time. The season also brings with it an array of skin problems.

Unfortunately, due to a lack of proper skincare knowledge, many of us are guilty of following myths to cope with the change in weather. Whether it is general dryness of the skin, irritation, cracked lips or even dehydration, we religiously abide by these myths without giving them a second thought. But fret not, with the advice of the renowned dermatologist Dr Khilji Faisal Arif from The Skin Clinic in Karachi, MsT helps to debunk a few of the most popular myths.

Apply moisturisers religiously – As soon as we encounter dryness, we immediately indulge in richly applying moisturisers to keep our skin hydrated and moist. However, according to Dr Khilji, oil-based moisturisers harm the skin in many ways. The abundance of oil clogs our pores, can cause breakouts and make our skin appear dull.

Buy expensive imported products –  Being influenced by the products the media has to offer, we often buy expensive imported products as part of our skin care regimen. But these products may not be good for us. “Moisturisers or other skincare products made in a specific country are created according to the skin type of the people living in that region,” informs Dr Khilji. As a result opting for these imported goods is a common mistake among the masses. “In case of severe dryness, water-based moisturisers should be used,” Dr Khilji says. Moroever, he advises that the only skincare regime people in Pakistan require is the application of a good sunscreen. “Sunscreen lotions not only protect your skin from the harmful radiation of the sun but also act as a mild moisturiser,” he adds.

Drink more water for fresher skin – We are frequently advised to drink water in abundance to have a healthy and glowing skin. But it is not just the water that will give you radiant skin – a balanced diet will do wonders for your complexion. “It is true that water is the best of all natural hydrating agents, but there is a reason why leading researchers stress upon the importance of a balanced diet,” adds Dr Khilji.

You Are What You Eat!

Unfortunately, in Pakistan our diet is often lacking fresh vegetables and fruits. We’ve shunned red meat and devour chicken as our primary source of protein. However, we need to understand that healthy skin demands a complete lifestyle transformation and smarter dietary choices.

According to CEO of the Facebook-based business ‘Jo’s Organic Beauty’ Jovita Alexander, our skin undergoes many climatic changes for various reasons. “Around this time of the year, our skin needs more care through products that are naturally hydrating,” says Jovita. “Along with naturally hydrating products we need to incorporate a healthy diet in our routine,” she adds.

Total Beauty – Do’s and don’ts of Autumn skincare

Dos

• Drink plenty of boiled water and consume natural vegetables and fruits juices.

• Use a good sunscreen lotion after consulting a dermatologist.

• Set a proper sleeping pattern and make sure that you’re getting enough sleep at night.

• Some skin problems may be a reaction to a hormonal imbalance. You need to get to the root of these problems before purchasing ointments for temporary relief.

• Use a mild, water-based moisturiser if your skin is prone to excessive dryness and irritation.

• Commit to a balanced diet that includes meat, fresh greens, fibre, healthy carbohydrates and minerals.

• Consult a professional dermatologist instead of seeking help online.

Donts

• Avoid oil-based moisturisers.

• Refrain from applying fairness creams and soaps as they’re laced with harmful bleaching agents and carcinogens.

• If you want to use Vitamin-E capsules, then don’t apply them directly onto your skin. Mix the capsule’s contents with water before application.

• Chicken isn’t the only source of protein. Meat, fish, cheese or lentils are also high in protein.

• In case of any skin problems, don’t opt for skin treatments at salons or local beauty parlours. Consult a dermatologist.

Tehmina Khan is a practicing dental surgeon and likes to write in her free time. She tweets @tehmina_manna

Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, August 16^th, 2015.