10 Steps to a glowing you

A healthy radiant skin is just a few simple steps away. Debarati S Sen gets the experts to tell you how... Can you look into the mirror and honestly declare, 'I have perfect skin'. If you can, then you probably are a few of those lucky people in the world. Most of us, are forever complaining about the acne, dark circles, tanned skin, pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, freckles and more... Phew! Isn't the list almost endless? But then, is 'good healthy skin' really such an unattainable dream? Skin experts and beauticians would probably disagree stating regular and timely care can help you achieve it. Follow these tips and get closer to radiant glowing skin... 1. Diet : What you eat decides how you look. This statement shows the importance of good healthy food in our diet. Deepshikha Agarwal, dietician and sports nutritionist says, "Antioxidants are present in berries, blueberries, cranberries and in aloe vera that can help fight bacteria and keep your skin vibrant. Vitamin E is another important nutrient that helps to keep our skin supple and wrinkle-free. Avoiding caffeine is a great idea because it hastens skin darkening and ageing. Opt for green tea instead." 2. Sunscreen : This is a must for all skin types, advise skin specialists. Dr Apratim Goel, dermatologist says, "Using a sunscreen with a minimum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 25 should be applied at least twenty minutes prior to going out. And it is a must even when you are indoors all day, because your computer screen and your cooking flame emits UV rays that damage skin. A good sunscreen can counter this effect." 3. Good skin care routine : Soma Sarkar Mukherjee, dermatologist and cosmetologist says, "A regular and good skin care routine is the basic essential when you are aiming for healthy radiant skin." Dr Goel adds, "Removing makeup is important. Never mistake a cleanser for a make-up remover. You should begin by removing eye make-up, then go to the cheek and lips." Daily toning and moisturising is also important says Soma. 4. Detoxification : This removes the toxins and other waste from the body that make our skin look dull and lifeless. Deepshikha says, "Drinking at least 2.5 litres of water helps flush out toxins." 5. Deworming : No matter what your age is, it is important to deworm for good health. 6. Avoid getting tanned : The sun not only makes your skin pigmented, it also causes early aging and premature wrinkles. Regular clean-ups and facials can help your skin look healthy and glowing says Dr Goel. 7. Men too : Not just women, skin care is just as important for men. Use a skin soothener like aloe vera gel or a calamine lotion in case of a shaving rash advice the experts. 8. Take care of dry, dark and scaly hands and feet : Hands and feet are the first to show signs of neglect. Aesthetician Ritu Tanwar says, "Begin by exfoliating and scrubbing your hands and then apply moisturiser meant for your hands and feet. Before going off to sleep, apply a creamy and nourishing cream and then, wear socks. A good manicure and pedicure at least once every month is essential." 9. Hair and nail care : Caring for your hair and nails are important too. Dry frizzy, unhealthy hair and nails maybe a sign that you have some sort of malnutrition or deficiency. Consult a doctor. "A healthy diet, at least once a month manicure and pedicure is essential for well-groomed nails," says Ritu. 10. Consult the experts! When none of the above work, it's time to see a specialist!