Health

The Ultimate Summer Skincare Guide: Expert Tips to Prevent Aging & Sun Damage

With rising temperatures and increasing sun exposure, maintaining youthful, healthy skin during summer requires a tailored approach. Sinduri Vuppala talks to renowned cosmetologists and skincare experts who share invaluable insights on preventing premature aging, choosing the right anti-aging ingredients, and ensuring sun protection without compromising skin health.

From Sunscreen to Serums: The Best Anti-Aging Strategies for Summer

Dr Madhu Chopra, a renowned cosmetologist and the Managing Director of Studio Aesthetique, Mumbai, has been a pioneer in the field of aesthetic medicine. She is also the mother of actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas. With a strong medical background and years of expertise, she shares valuable insights on the latest trends in aesthetic medicine, effective skincare routines, and expert advice for maintaining healthy skin.

How can one prevent premature aging and sunspots during summer?

Protecting the skin from premature aging and sunspots requires a combination of sun protection and a targeted skincare routine. A broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen should be applied regularly, reapplication every two hours. Wearing protective clothing and seeking shade between 10 AM and 4 PM can further reduce UV exposure. Incorporating antioxidants like Vitamin C and E helps combat free radicals, while proper hydration maintains skin elasticity. Retinoids, niacinamide, and exfoliants aid in reducing sunspots and promoting skin cell renewal. A holistic skincare strategy, including sunblock, targeted treatments, and antioxidant-rich nutrition, helps maintain youthful and healthy skin.

What are the key anti-aging ingredients to include in a summer skincare routine?

A summer skincare routine should focus on protection, repair, and rejuvenation. Essential ingredients include-

Sunscreen: SPF 50+ and PA+++ for broad-spectrum UV protection.

Vitamin C: Antioxidant benefits that enhance collagen production and reduce pigmentation.

Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration.

Niacinamide: Strengthens the skin barrier, reduces wrinkles, and controls sebum production.

Retinoids: Stimulate collagen formation and improve skin texture but require sun protection.

Peptides: Enhance skin elasticity.

Polyphenols & Coenzyme Q10: Offer antioxidant protection.

Aloe Vera & Centella Asiatica: Soothe and calm the skin.

Can the use of excessive sunscreen clog pores or cause other skin concerns?

Sunscreen itself does not clog pores unless incorrect formulations or improper removal lead to breakouts, irritation, or dullness. People with oily or acne-prone skin should opt for non-comedogenic, gel-based, or mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Double cleansing—using an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle face wash—ensures complete removal of sunscreen residue. Hydrating sunscreens with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid helps maintain skin balance while avoiding heavy chemical filters and fragrances and can prevent irritation.

What is the best way to reapply sunscreen without ruining makeup?

Reapplying sunscreen over makeup requires a gentle approach to maintain both sun protection and a flawless look. Use–

Sunscreen mists: Lightweight SPF 50 sprays that can be applied without disturbing makeup.

Powder sunscreens: Provide sun protection while reducing shine, ideal for oily skin.

Stick or cushion sunscreens: Allow precise application without smudging the foundation.

Blotting sheets: Remove excess oil before reapplication for better absorption.

SPF-infused primers, foundations, and setting sprays: Offer additional sun protection but should not replace regular sunscreen application.

Reapplying every two hours ensures continuous protection while keeping makeup fresh.

How does pollution combined with summer heat accelerate skin aging, and how can we combat it?

Pollution and summer heat accelerate aging by increasing oxidative stress, inflammation, and dehydration. Pollutants generate free radicals that damage collagen, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dull skin. Sweat, oil, and environmental toxins further clog pores, causing breakouts and weakening the skin barrier. Combat these effects by using antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Niacinamide to neutralize damage. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily. Practicing double cleansing to remove pollutants effectively. Strengthen the skin barrier with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Wear protective clothing and use air purifiers when possible. Exfoliate regularly with AHAs or BHAs to promote skin renewal.

Can Botox or fillers be affected by extreme heat and sun exposure?

Yes, Botox and fillers are sensitive to heat and sun exposure, especially in the first few days post-treatment. High temperatures increase blood flow, potentially shortening Botox’s effectiveness, while sun exposure can cause inflammation and interfere with proper settling. To preserve results avoid heat and sun exposure for 48 hours after treatment. Refrain from intense exercise, saunas, and heat-based treatments. Use SPF 50 sunscreen and hydrating agents like aloe vera to reduce inflammation. Maintain long-term sun protection to prevent collagen breakdown and prolong the effects of fillers.

How can we protect the delicate skin around the eyes and lips during summer?

The eye and lip areas are highly sensitive and prone to sun damage and dehydration. Protection strategies include:

Sunscreen for sensitive areas: Use an SPF-infused eye cream and UV-blocking sunglasses to prevent fine lines and wrinkles.

Antioxidant-rich eye creams: Contain Vitamin C, peptides, and hyaluronic acid for hydration and protection.

SPF 30+ lip balm shields lips from sunburn, especially for individuals with less melanin.

Hydrating ingredients like shea butter and ceramides prevent dryness and improve moisture retention.

Gentle exfoliation removes dead skin for better hydration penetration.

Are there any new nanotechnology sunscreens that offer better protection against blue light and UV damage?

Nanotechnology has revolutionized sunscreens by providing enhanced UV and blue light (HEV) protection with lightweight, transparent formulas. Nano-sized titanium dioxide and zinc oxide offer superior broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast. Antioxidant-infused formulations contain Vitamin C, Vitamin E, polyphenols, and iron oxide nanoparticles to neutralize free radicals and prevent blue light-induced hyperpigmentation. Advanced delivery methods like nanolipid and liposomal technologies improve absorption, stability, and long-lasting effectiveness. These formulations are ideal for individuals with melasma or sensitive skin who require long-lasting protection. Look for labels indicating HEV light protection or nano zinc/titanium dioxide for superior skin defense.

April 4, 2025

Sinduri Vuppala, skincare, Summer Skincare Tips

Wedding Wellness with Luke Coutinho: Starting the Journey

Luke Coutinho, India’s leading Integrative Lifestyle Expert, believes that true wedding prep goes far beyond fitting into an outfit or chasing picture-perfect looks. For him, it’s about building strength, balance, and inner calm that lasts well beyond the wedding day. Here, he shares his holistic wellness guide for brides and grooms stepping into this new chapter. From a holistic health perspective, how early should brides and grooms start preparing their bodies for the wedding? I’ve always believed that wedding prep should start with the inside. If we’re talking about sustainable energy, balanced hormones, strong immunity, or calm emotional states it’s not a 15-day crash course. It’s a rhythm you build. Ideally, I encourage couples to begin six to 12 months in advance. That gives us space to work on the deeper layers like gut repair, sleep cycles, metabolic health, and emotional resilience. Even three months can make a real difference if done right. But more than timelines, I believe in intention. Whether you start 12 months or six weeks before, ask yourself: Am I just trying to look good for a day, or do I want to feel well through all the days that follow? How can couples set wellness goals that go beyond just looking good in wedding photos?It’s easy to get caught up in aesthetics wanting to fit into a certain outfit or chase a number on the scale. But real wellness is about how you feel your energy, your digestion, your mood, your ability to stay calm amidst the chaos. I always tell couples: Don’t make the goal about shrinking your body. Make it about strengthening your health, supporting your hormones, and building the emotional resilience to actually enjoy your wedding. When you feel good inside, it shows up outside on your skin, in your eyes, and

Health

Eating Right, Feeling Bright: How to Stay Healthy and Happy This Festive Season

As the festive season arrives, it’s easy to get swept up in the celebration and sometimes, overdo it. Between rich sweets, back-to-back parties, and emotional highs (and lows), maintaining your health both physical and emotional can become challenging. SINDURI VUPPALA speaks to two experts Dietician Vidhi Chawla, Founder of FISICO Diet & Aesthetic Clinic, and Rajvir Kohar, a seasoned Mental Health Clinician to bring you a guide on how to eat mindfully and feel emotionally balanced this season. “It’s okay not to feel festive. Honour your emotions.” – Mental Health Clinician Rajvir Kohar While cultural celebrations and holidays offer opportunities for connections and joy, they also come with increased expectations and responsibilities. Research indicates that mental health symptoms such as stress, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and emotional eating often rise during the festive season. Many individuals experience heightened stress around the holidays, primarily due to factors such as financial strain, time pressures, and family dynamics. Financial challenges can be particularly overwhelming, as people feel the burden of purchasing gifts, hosting gatherings, and keeping up with social expectations. For individuals already managing financial constraints, these demands can deepen feelings of inadequacy or guilt. Additionally, the festive season can bring emotional pain for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Others may experience a profound sense of loneliness, especially if they lack close family or social networks, making the celebratory atmosphere feel isolating rather than inclusive. Common mental health symptoms during this period include disturbed sleep, changes in appetite (either overeating or under-eating), increased irritability, fatigue, and social withdrawal. While these feelings are common, they often go unnoticed amidst societal expectations to “stay cheerful.” Despite these challenges, it is possible to approach the festive season with mindfulness and care. By adopting practical strategies, you can protect your mental health and still engage

Health

Managing Psychological Stress in Marriage in India

Marriage, while often seen as a sacred bond in India, is also a complex partnership that involves emotional investment, societal expectations, and continuous adaptation. In the Indian context, marriage isn’t just a union between two individuals it’s often a confluence of families, traditions, and social norms. While love and companionship are central, psychological stress can quietly build over time due to unmet expectations, communication gaps, external pressures, and the lack of personal space. Managing this stress effectively is crucial for a healthy and fulfilling marital life. Understanding the Sources of Stress Recognizing the Signs of Stress Psychological stress in marriage often doesn’t manifest dramatically. Instead, it appears in small, persistent ways: If left unaddressed, this stress can escalate into anxiety disorders, depression, or even marital breakdown. Strategies to Manage Marital Stress 1. Open, Non-Judgmental Communication The cornerstone of any successful marriage is healthy communication. Couples must learn to express themselves openly, without fear of being judged. Schedule “talk time” to share your thoughts, concerns, or even simple day-to-day feelings. Use “I feel” statements rather than blame-focused language to prevent defensiveness. 2. Set Realistic Expectations Bollywood and societal portrayals of “perfect marriages” create unrealistic standards. Accept that no marriage is without flaws. Understand each other’s limitations and strengths, and be willing to compromise without losing your core identity. 3. Establish Boundaries with Extended Family While respecting elders and family traditions is important, couples must create healthy boundaries. This includes making joint decisions independently, especially on matters like finances, parenting, or living arrangements. A united front reduces external interference and strengthens the couple’s bond. 4. Seek Professional Help Therapy is still stigmatized in parts of India, but counseling individuals or couples can be transformative. A trained therapist helps you identify patterns, improve communication, and resolve conflicts constructively. Many Indian metro cities and

Health

Why Soaking Rice Reduces Glucose: Science, Steps, and Stats

Rice is a staple food for millions across the globe, but it’s also often blamed for raising blood sugar levels—especially white rice due to its high glycemic index (GI). However, a simple, age-old practice can help: soaking rice before cooking. This traditional method doesn’t just make rice softer and faster to cook—it also offers a science-backed way to reduce its glucose content and make it healthier. Hashtag Magazines gives you a lowdown… The Science Behind Soaking Rice When you soak rice, several things happen: Supporting Research and Statistics A study published in Food Chemistry (2015) found: Another study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted: A 2022 clinical trial in India showed: How to Soak Rice to Lower Glucose Step-by-Step Method: Glycemic Index Reduction – Before & After Soaking Type of Rice GI (Unsoaked) GI (After Soaking) White rice 72 60–65 Brown rice 68 55–60 Basmati rice 58 45–50 Red rice 55 40–48 Additional Tips to Reduce Sugar Spike from Rice Why This Matters for Diabetics and Health-Conscious Eaters Blood sugar spikes can lead to fatigue, weight gain, insulin resistance, and long-term complications like diabetes or heart disease. Making simple changes like soaking rice helps: Conclusion Soaking rice is a simple, no-cost step with massive health benefits. Whether you’re managing diabetes, watching your weight, or just aiming for better gut health, soaking rice before cooking can significantly lower its glucose impact. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in Indian kitchens, now backed by science.