Beauty, Fashion

Breaking The Stigma with Anusha Dandekar

Introducing BrownSkin Beauty, a ground-breaking start-up founded by a renowned television host and former VJ Anusha Dandekar. With a passion for breaking barriers and promoting diversity, this innovative venture is dedicated to celebrating and uplifting women with dark skin tones. BrownSkin Beauty is inspiring women to embrace their unique beauty and celebrate their cultural heritage. Hashtag Magazine captures the journey…

From being a VJ, actress, television host, and judge on India’s Next Top Model to now launching a beauty skincare brand with a message, tell us a little about your entrepreneurial journey.

It’s been a completely new experience for me creatively, mentally and physically. It’s incredible to create products and learn so much about ingredients and various formulas for the skin. You also learn to be patient because you want to get it perfect and I can’t stop testing the products until I’m happy with every bit of the product from ingredients to the packaging to the way we advertise it. I think with being on camera, I had to just focus on that, whether it was hosting, acting, or singing, and I would shoot and leave. Here it’s a million things happening at once and it never ends, even when you get home!

Why did you choose to launch a skincare brand specifically for brown skin women? Any personal experience or stigma?

I think for Indian skin and brown skin all over the world, it was important to change the narrative, be inclusive and also have representation for an entire colour that was more or less abandoned by the beauty industry. I have been a brown girl, who grew up in Australia and I wanted to fit in with the kids all the time, so I would hide my culture a lot. I didn’t have anyone representing me and making me feel a part of anything. As I got older, I had to build that path for myself and luckily I come from a family that never told me being brown is bad. So, I started this because I wanted everyone to feel empowered with products that are specifically designed for our skin type. After all, we have problems like hyperpigmentation, melasma etc., but being Brown is NOT and shouldn’t be the problem!

Being Brown is NOT and shouldn’t be the problem!

Starting a brand that targets dark skin people in a country that’s obsessed with fair skin can be quite a challenge, how has the project taken off so far?

It feels like a one-woman army sometimes and then once I hire girls for the company and educate them on the same, it feels great to see them understanding so much more in-depth how serious a problem and how brainwashed we are as a society, nation and world! We have customers ask if this will make you “browner” because they thought it might be the opposite effect to Fair and lovely which promises “Fairer skin”. I wish people knew there is no cream in the world that can make your skin lighter and that bleaches are very harmful. And BrownSkin beauty is not and doesn’t want to change you, it wants to enhance you and make you feel proud to be brown and comfortable in your skin #filterfree. So, we are doing well, but believe me, we have a long, long way to go for it to make a massive impact.

Tell us a little more about your line, how different is it from what we have in the market?

We use safe chemicals and natural ingredients with the perfect blend; we really take into consideration our weather for each range. We think about the different skin types during different seasons. We focus on the majority of skin problems in our country and how we can help minimise them and still be for the majority of people to use. If you are completely new to skincare, we know how confusing and intimidating it can be, so we created sets for you and you get free merchandise with each set! So, it makes a great gift as well. We aren’t time-consuming yet so effective.

I think for Indian skin and brown skin all over the world, it was important to change the narrative, be inclusive and also have representation for an entire colour that was more or less abandoned by the beauty industry.

Our products do not dry your skin out or make it greasy. Our sunscreen is also the best in the world and I vouch for that. So really just an honest brand doing honest things and also giving 5 percent of profit to help girls finish their education, our foundation is called Beyond Brown Skin… so not only do we want you to feel good about yourself but also feel good that you helped someone through your purchase. Also, we use glass packaging as much as we can to help the environment and overall, we genuinely want to see everyone see themselves differently in the best way possible and that’s beautiful.

How do you see your beauty brand evolving in the future? What are your plans/ strategies going forward?

I want to take it worldwide! A “made in India” brand created by Indians would feel so incredible. Helping change the narrative here and all over would make me feel so proud and help so many feel included and confident! I also want to start BrownSkin Boy, BrownSkin Mumma, and BrownSkin Baby… but all in good time!

How different is being an entrepreneur from being an artist?

They are quite different, both require incredible patience as things can change any minute, stamina as hours can be long, creativity because you are building a show or products, and passion because if you put your whole heart into it, your audience knows and can feel it! And I love both things I do so it never really feels like work unless there is paperwork! Yet still, they are very different because when I come home from a shoot, I switch off. BSB never ends.

How do you balance your career between work, business, and personal commitments?

I think a human has time to make for any of these things if they want to. And for me, work and business have always been things I enjoy and can immerse myself into. I also believe personal commitments are important and you have to make time for them, I just also believe if you need some alone time to be with your own energy after long days, that’s healthy also.

Helping change the narrative here and all over would make me feel so proud and help so many feel included and confident!

What next, any other interesting projects on the cards?

I have a Marathi film coming soon and another project in the pipeline that I can’t talk about right now. But I am excited about different things this year!

Quick takes:

What’s your daily skincare routine?
Thirst trap Face wash, Immortal face cream, and SunLit tinted sunscreen serum, all from my BrownSkin beauty range.

What are your top skin rules?
Always take make-up off and do a night time routine to relax and let your skin breathe. Stay away from sugar and dairy as much as possible. Exercise to release all toxins from your body and mind. Say kind words to yourself when you look in the mirror.

Must have in your beauty bag?
Lip gloss, studio fix by Mac, cream blush by Nars, my tinted sunscreen serum, Sunlit by BrownSkin beauty.

One mantra you swear by.
Love yourself or change till you do. And the kinder you are to yourself, the better your mind and body will feel and it will show, glow!

March 31, 2023

Varsha Chaturvedi’s Journey of Transformation

In a world where change is often feared, Varsha Chaturvedi embraced transformation with grace, grit, and unshakable determination. Her journey is not just one of personal growth, it is a story of reclaiming identity, defying societal expectations, and inspiring countless others to take control of their lives. Born and raised in a traditional family in Rajasthan, Varsha’s early life followed a path that many women in India are expected to tread: academic excellence, a conventional marriage, and settling into the role of a homemaker. But beneath the quiet rhythm of domestic life, Varsha harbored a restless spirit. She always knew she was meant for more not out of dissatisfaction, but out of an innate desire to explore her full potential. Breaking the Mold It wasn’t an overnight shift. Varsha’s transformation began subtly—through books, self-reflection, and engaging with women’s forums. She became increasingly aware of the silent struggles women endure, particularly in balancing personal dreams with family responsibilities. Rather than resigning, she began asking bold questions: “Why not me?” “What if I tried?” That inner voice led her to step out of her comfort zone and pursue public speaking, health and wellness, and social impact work. But her greatest breakthrough came when she entered the world of pageantry not as a means of glamor, but as a platform for expression and empowerment. The Pageant That Changed Everything In 2022, Varsha registered for a regional beauty pageant under the Mrs. category. It was an unconventional move for a woman who had never imagined herself on stage, in heels, under the spotlight. Yet, it was in that bold step that she discovered a version of herself she hadn’t met before: confident, articulate, and unapologetically ambitious. Though she didn’t win the crown that year, the experience became a turning point. She trained in grooming,

Fashion

From Gym To Brunch: How To Style Skorts For Every Occasion

Modern women, especially nestled in the hustle and bustle of city life, tend to attend different occasions. Be it an early morning workout session, weekend brunch with friends, or accompanying a fitness freak buddy to the gym, Indian women look for clothing that moves as seamlessly as she does. While many choices are available in the market, finding chic and comfortable active wear can be a hassle for many. Thankfully, one stylish essential has been winning hearts for its innovative design and adaptability: the Skort. As the focus on stylish and dynamic dressing is on the rise, finding the best skorts for women has become a smart trend. It combines the beauty of a skirt with the design of shorts that complement its adaptability on every occasion you go. Moreover, it effortlessly helps women transition from regular outings to workouts and get-togethers. In the following blog, let us explore how you can bring out the best for almost every occasion. Why Skorts Are The Ultimate Versatile Apparel? Before we discuss styling inspirations, it is vital to understand why such clothing (skorts) deserves a place in your closet. Interestingly, the average Indian woman is expected to shop approximately 9.3 pieces in 2025. This highlights the growing demand for practical and versatile fashion choices. Moreover, such a trend reflects how modern women are seeking wardrobe staples that easily adapt to their fast-paced lives, and skorts can easily accommodate that evolving preference. Here are some factors that give a clear picture of its versatility: Fashionable activewear blends athletic function with great appeal, allowing you to move freely without feeling self-conscious. Whether you’re stretching in the gym or just reaching for a coffee cup on a busy morning, it keeps you confident and comfortable. One of the most impressive aspects is its inclusive design. With a silhouette

Fashion

7 Summer Fashion Trends that are Dominating 2025

The sun’s blazing, vacations are calling, and the fashion world is already glowing with the season’s freshest energy. Summer 2025 is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation — think throwbacks to the 2000s, a celebration of slow fashion, and a whole lot of personality. We break down the seven standout trends that are shaping the hottest wardrobes right now. Ready to dive in? Pastels are nothing new, but this year, they’re showing up in elevated ways. From silky slip dresses in butter yellow to oversized blazers in cloudy lilac, Pastelcore 2.0 feels both playful and polished. Designers are layering pastels over sheer whites and styling them with sleek, minimalist accessories. It’s the kind of wardrobe that feels like a soft-serve sundae on a hot day — light, dreamy, and just right. Must-haves: Pistachio wrap tops, lilac trousers, butter-yellow mules Deconstructed denim is the anti-basic staple of 2025. We’re talking asymmetric cuts, frayed hems, and multi-tone patchwork. Low-rise jeans are making a controversial comeback (yes, again), but this time with more relaxed fits and artful distressing. Even denim corsets and trench coats are in rotation, proving denim isn’t just casual, its cool couture. Style tip: Pair baggy denim cargos with a satin tank and kitten heels for that grunge-glam finish. Whether or not you’re on a beach, Resortcore says you’re mentally there. Lightweight linens, crochet bikinis doubling as crop tops, breezy co-ords, and oversized straw hats are everywhere. Raffia totes and shell jewellery give this aesthetic that effortlessly wanderlust vibe. What to wear: Linen shorts + halter tops, kaftan dresses, strappy flat sandals One of the most surprising trends this year is the merger of bohemian silhouettes with techwear sensibilities. Smart fabrics that cool you down, UV-sensitive colour shifts, and pocket-heavy flowy fits are giving summer dressing a futuristic upgrade.

Beauty

Common Skin Conditions That Worsen in Summer & Their Treatment

Increased heat, humidity, and sun exposure can trigger or worsen various skin conditions, from acne and eczema to sunburn and hyperpigmentation. Understanding the right treatments and preventive measures can help keep skin healthy and glowing. Dr Mehnaz Jahan shares expert advice on managing summer-related skin issues and the latest dermatological treatments. What are some common skin conditions that worsen in summer, and how can they be treated?Several skin conditions tend to worsen in summer due to increased sweat, humidity, and heat. Acne – Excess oil production leads to clogged pores. Using non-comedogenic products, extractions, and laser therapy can help manage acne. Eczema – Excessive sweating worsens eczema. Treatment includes using moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, avoiding scratching, and applying cool compresses. Wearing loose, breathable clothing is also beneficial. Seborrheic Dermatitis – Managed with medicated shampoos, antifungal treatments, and stress reduction techniques. Heat Rashes – Staying in cool areas, wearing loose clothing, and using calamine lotion or powders can provide relief. Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) – Controlled using clinical antiperspirants, light breathable clothing, and Botox injections if required. What is the best way to treat sunburns and prevent peeling?Sunburn can exacerbate conditions like psoriasis. Effective treatments include applying cool compresses, moisturizing with aloe vera, avoiding peeling of dried-out skin, and staying hydrated. One can also use gentle exfoliants. Using topical corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs for psoriasis-related sunburns Can laser hair removal be done in summer?Yes, laser hair removal is effective in summer, but precautions should be taken. Avoiding sun exposure before and after treatment helps minimize the risk of complications. What’s the best way to manage body acne caused by sweat and friction?To manage body acne, wear lightweight and breathable clothing. Shower immediately after exercising and use gentle cleansers. Use body washes and sprays specifically designed to reduce acne.What are the