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Journalism of Courage
In the era of social media and the pervasive influence of beauty bloggers, the DIY skincare trend has gained immense popularity. From a homemade ubtan mask to an aromatic coffee scrub, individuals are increasingly turning to their kitchen cabinets for ingredients to enhance their skincare routines. However, what seems like a cost-effective and natural approach to self-care may come with its own set of risks and drawbacks.
Educating us about the same is Dr Aanchal Panth, a dermatologist, who recently shared an Instagram post highlighting a few things we must know about home remedies before using them.
*Limited effects: Home remedies primarily offer moisturisation or gentle exfoliation. While ingredients like dairy products or those with high oil content can moisturise the skin, and mild acids can exfoliate the skin, their effects are limited.
*Mild ingredients: Even though certain ingredients are known to be beneficial, the concentrations present in home remedies are often too mild to deliver significant effects compared to active ingredients found in professionally formulated products.
*Potential irritation: Despite their natural origin, some home remedy ingredients, such as orange peels, lemon, or baking soda, can cause irritation and burns on the skin.
*Temporary results: The results achieved through home remedies are often temporary, with the effects typically lasting only a day at most.
*Relaxation, not treatment: Home remedies should be viewed more as a means of relaxation and self-care rather than a solution to treat or correct underlying skin concerns.
To ensure a safer approach to natural beauty, Dr Seema Oberoi Lall, consultant, dermatology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, suggests practical tips:
*Do a patch test: Apply a small amount of the remedy to an inconspicuous area of your skin, such as the inside of your arm, and wait 24 hours to see if there’s any adverse reaction.
*Start slowly: If you don’t experience any irritation, you can start using the remedy on your face, but be sure to use it sparingly and only for a short period of time.
*Listen to your skin: If you experience any negative side effects, stop using the remedy immediately.
*Sun sensitivity: Be extra cautious about sun exposure after using such ingredients and always wear sunscreen.
*Following recipes precisely: Maintain hygiene during preparation, store ingredients properly, and be aware of potential bacterial risks. Being mindful of ingredient interactions is essential to avoid any risks.
*Your skin type: What works for one person might not work for another. If you have sensitive skin, you’re more likely to experience irritation from certain ingredients.
*Specific remedy: Some remedies have more scientific backing than others. For example, there’s evidence that honey can help heal wounds and fight acne, while the effectiveness of lemon juice for lightening skin is less clear.
*Condition being treated: Some DIY remedies might be helpful for mild skin concerns, but they’re unlikely to be effective for more serious conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
For those still hesitant about DIY skincare, Dr Lall advises to use dermatologist-recommended brands and medical-grade skincare. “Consult a dermatologist for personalised recommendations based on your skin type and concerns. They can suggest brands and products formulated with effective ingredients and tested for safety and efficacy. Certain conditions require medical-grade products available through prescription. These contain higher concentrations of active ingredients for addressing specific issues like acne or rosacea,” she said.
