By Shahnaz Husain
Firecrackers begin days before Diwali, adding to the smoke and pollutants. That is why skin cleansing assumes more importance. The chemicals in the air irritate the skin, causing dryness or rashes.
People with dry skins should use a cleansing gel, containing aloe vera, which not only rehydrates the skin, but also restores the normal balance. For oily skins, cleansing lotions containing mint, rose, lavender, sandalwood or lemon are ideal. Massage the cleanser lightly on the skin and wipe with moist cotton wool. After cleansing in the morning, tone the skin, using rose water. Using cotton wool, wipe the skin and then pat it briskly. In fact, the skin can be wiped and refreshed this way several times during the day. Green tea is also a powerful skin tonic.
The use of scrubs helps to remove dead epithelial cells and thus brighten the skin. It also stimulates blood circulation to the skin surface and brings a glow to the skin. A scrub may be used once or twice a week. Make a scrub at home by mixing sesame seeds (til), dried mint leaves and honey. These ingredients are not normally used, but they have a protective and revitalizing effect on the skin, both for face and body. Crush the sesame seeds coarsely and powder the dried mint leaves. Mix them with a little honey and apply on the skin. Leave on for 15 minutes and then moisten with water and rub gently on the skin with circular movements. Wash off with water.
Scrubs also help to discourage blackheads and also help open pores and marks left by acne. Stubborn blackheads should be removed at a skin-care clinic, by a trained therapist, using proper methods. Pinching blackheads, or trying to remove them at home, not only leads to infection, but also scarring.
To prevent skin eruptions and rashes, take one cup of Basil (tulsi) leaves. Add it to a litre of water. Simmer it on a very low fire till the water is reduced to half. Cool and strain. Use the water to wash the face. Make a paste of the leaves and apply on the face. This also helps to keep the skin healthy. Neem leaves can also be used the same way.
The air pollutants can also affect the eyes, causing burning or redness. The eyes should be washed with plain water several times.
About Shahnaz Husain
Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets” She was honored with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty Icon!
