EXPERT DERMATOLOGY & SKINCARE GUIDE How Indians Can Achieve Korean “Glass Skin” In the ever-evolving world of skincare, trends and routines come and go, but one concept that continues to capture the attention of beauty enthusiasts around the world is the Korean skincare concept of “glass skin” – a luminous flawless complexion characterised by its radiant, translucent appearance, akin to that of a sheet of glass. Let’s delve into the essence of glass skin, explore whether Indians can achieve glass skin, and provide insights into the products that can help. What is Glass Skin? The idea of Glass Skin goes beyond mere surface-level beauty; it’s a reflection of a holistic skincare routine that prioritises hydration, even skin tone, texture and overall skin health. Achieving glass skin involves cultivating a radiant dewy complexion with minimal to no imperfections. This coveted look is characterised by skin that appears smooth, plump, and nearly transparent. Can Indians Achieve Glass Skin? While it’s a great concept that may work for the Koreans, it is important for us to remember that a lot of factors other than just a diligent skincare routine play a role on the health and overall appearance of our skin. The most crucial of those being genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Brown skin has higher melanin and a higher tendency to pigment as compared to Korean skin. Moreover, winters in Korea are cold and dry. The pollution and humidity levels in India are much higher causing a lot more damage to our skin. This is why Korean skincare primarily focuses on hydration while as Indians, we need to combine that with targeted treatments to tackle pigmentation and oxidative damage. The elaborate 10 step routine may not be such a good idea for us as it may clog our pores and cause breakouts! So, instead of aiming at flawless skin, we should be focused on having a personalised skincare routine built around our specific needs and skin type. At Skin Series, you can consult our expert, Dr. Natasha Shetty for the perfect tailor-made daily skincare routine for your skin. If you’re not sure where to begin, the steps that follow could be a good starting point for you to start building your own skincare routine: 1. Double cleansing: Begin your routine with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and impurities, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to cleanse the skin without stripping its natural moisture. 2. Exfoliation: Gently exfoliate 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. This step enhances the skin’s ability to absorb the products that come after. Opt for a chemical exfoliant instead of physical ones like scrubs. This will help prevent abrasions and microtears on the skin which can lead to a whole list of issues. 3. Hydration: Layer on hydrating products like toners and essences. Hydration is the cornerstone of glass skin, as it imparts plumpness and dewiness. Besides, well hydrated skin makes fine lines and wrinkles less visible. 4. Serums and actives: Address specific concerns with serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, ferulic acid and niacinamide. These potent formulations can help brighten, even out skin tone and provide antioxidant protection. 5. Sheet Masks: Treat your skin to sheet masks infused with nourishing ingredients. These masks offer a concentrated burst of hydration and nutrients. 6. Moisturisation: Seal in all the goodness with a lightweight, hydrating moisturiser. Opt for products that contain ceramides to reinforce the skin barrier. 7. Sun Protection: Never skip sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Sun protection is vital to prevent premature ageing, hyperpigmentation and maintain healthy skin. In Clinic Treatments 1. Medical grade facials: Medical Grade Facials are packed with potent ingredients that can help deeply cleanse, gently exfoliate along with anti-inflammatory benefits, all with zero downtime. Frequency – Once a month. 2. Microneedling: This minimally invasive procedure works by using tiny needles to penetrate the skin thus stimulating its natural healing process to produce more collagen and elastin giving you a tighter, firmer, appearance. This can be combined with infusion of certain actives specific to your concerns or even PRP to help with enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, crepey skin, scars and even stretch marks. Frequency – Every 3-4 weeks. 3. Laser toning: This helps lighten hyperpigmentation and aims at evening out your skin tone. Frequency – Every 3-4 weeks. 4. Chemical Peels: Chemical Peels cause controlled damage to help break the bonds between dead skin cells and subsequently exfoliate the top layer of the skin to reveal fresh skin cells underneath. Frequency – Every 3-4 weeks. 5. Skin boosters: A relatively novel innovation and the saving grace for extremely dry skin types aiming for dewy, supple skin but have a busy schedule or just don’t enjoy an elaborate skincare routine. Skin boosters are injectable moisturisers that are deposited deep into the skin making it extremely supple and the results last for a good 6-9 months. This not only makes for the perfect ultra-hydration treatment but also can cut down your skincare routine. Remember consistency is key and individuality plays a vital role in curating a regimen that caters to your unique skin needs. You can contact us for a personalised consultation with our skincare expert, Dr. Natasha Shetty for your skin concerns. Book Your Consultation Learn how to achieve healthy, radiant Korean Glass Skin tailored for Indian skin at Skin Series. Book Your Consultation

EXPERT DERMATOLOGY & HYPERPIGMENTATION GUIDE Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns that we come across at our Thane-based skincare clinic. Characterised by dark patches or spots, hyperpigmentation is exceedingly common in Indian skin. It can be unsettling and can have an impact on one’s self esteem as well. This blog explores the causes of hyperpigmentation on Indian skin as well as effective ways to treat it. Dr. Natasha Shetty discusses topical treatments and in-clinic solutions to help you achieve a clearer, more radiant, complexion. CAUSES OF HYPERPIGMENTATION There can be multiple causes and triggers for hyperpigmentation. Here are some of the most common ones: Sun Exposure: The harsh Indian sun is a major contributor to hyperpigmentation. UV rays trigger the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, leading to dark spots and uneven skin tone. PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Indian skin is more prone to PIH, a condition where pigmentation develops as a result of inflammation post trauma or injury to the skin like in acne, eczema or even rashes. Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or oral contraceptives can also trigger a condition known as melasma. Also known as the pregnancy mask, melasma is commonly seen as symmetrical, brown patches on the cheeks, nose and sometimes even the forehead and the chin. Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) which is becoming increasingly common in women, can also cause hyperpigmentation around the mouth sometimes and this can worsen with sun exposure and lack of protection from the sun. Genetics: Indian skin genetically has higher melanin content making it more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. TOPICAL OPTIONS A skincare routine focusing on pigmentation should always begin with protection and then to building a corrective routine. Without prevention, correction will always be incomplete leaving you with unsatisfactory results. Here are some topical options to tackle pigmentation: Sunscreen: One of the best ways to treat pigmentation or pigmentary disorders is the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to protect it from getting any darker. Pick a formulation according to your skin type and concern and ensure you reapply it every 2-3 hours since the efficacy of a sunscreen considerably reduces after 2 hours. Vitamin C: Vitamin C can be a great place to start since it is a powerful antioxidant that can help lighten pigmentation or dark spots in addition to fighting oxidative damage that our skin goes through daily due to both internal and environmental triggers. It also helps brighten your overall complexion, giving you a more even toned appearance and promotes collagen production to fight early signs of ageing. Retinoids: Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that hasten cell turnover rate and inhibits the melanin producing enzyme, thus having an overall effect on both, tone, and texture. Tretinoin is a prescription product and should be used under the supervision of a dermatologist while retinol is an ingredient that can be purchased over the counter. However, if you’re a first-time user with either, it’s always a good idea to start under the guidance of your doctor to minimise the risk of side effects. Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacin helps regulate melanin production while also controlling excessive oil or sebum production. Since vitamin C can sometimes aggravate acne, niacinamide is a good alternative for oily, acne prone skin with hyperpigmentation. Depigmenting agents: Look for products containing active ingredients like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, glycolic acid, azelaic acid or licorice extracts. These work by inhibiting melanin production and gradually fading dark spots. IN CLINIC TREATMENTS If topical solutions do not seem to work for you, you can consider some safe and highly effective procedures. Dermatologist Dr. Natasha Shetty recommends some of the following treatments: Chemical Peels: Chemical Peels help exfoliate the top dead skin cell layer and improve hyperpigmentation depending on the actives in them. They accelerate cell turnover and reveal fresh skin cells promoting an even complexion. Depigmenting Lasers: Q switch lasers are engineered to break down excess pigment that is then flushed through your system resulting in depigmentation. Microdermabrasion: This procedure involves physical exfoliation of the skin with a diamond tip and can be followed with brightening serum infusions which help improve hyperpigmentation. Microneedling: Microneedling involves the use of ultra-fine needles that trigger the body’s natural healing process. The combination of microneedling and depigmenting actives not only promotes collagen and elastin production but also remodels the skin and lightens pigmentation. IV Glutathione: Glutathione is an antioxidant that is produced by the cells of our body to fight oxidative stress. The level of glutathione in the body can decline due to several factors such as poor nutrition, stress, toxins and ageing. Taking intravenous glutathione can help regulate melanin production and can effectively treat skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation. While taking oral supplements is also an option, the absorption rate is only 30% as compared to complete absorption when taken intravenously. Conclusion While hyperpigmentation remains one of the most common concerns among Indian skin tones, with the right understanding and appropriate treatments, it can be well managed. Remember to protect your skin from sun exposure and consider incorporating topical treatments or seeking professional help to address your concerns effectively. Consider consulting a dermatologist for ways to treat hyperpigmentation more effectively. Book Your Consultation Get doctor-approved treatment for pigmentation with Dr. Natasha Shetty at Skin Series. Book Your Consultation

EXPERT ACNE & DERMATOLOGY GUIDE Banish Acne Woes for Good with These Expert Tips and Recommendations Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide regardless of age or gender. It can be a source of frustration and insecurity for those who suffer from it. In this blog, Dr. Natasha Shetty dives into the world of acne, exploring its types, underlying causes and the most effective treatment options to combat this bothersome condition. However, if you have been grappling with acne for too long and are seeking more effective solutions, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist near you to seek the right bespoke skincare solutions! WHAT IS ACNE? Acne is a dermatological condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and in severe cases, cysts. It primarily affects areas rich in sebaceous (oil) glands, such as face, chest, back and shoulders. TYPES OF ACNE Understanding the different types of eruptions can help treat it effectively. Acne eruptions vary according to the grade of severity and can be seen in various forms. Whiteheads and Blackheads: Also known as comedones (open or closed), these develop when pores are clogged with sebum and skin debris. They can be small flesh, white or black coloured bumps trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Papules: Small, red, inflamed bumps that may be tender to touch. Pustules: Similar to papules, but with a white or yellowish pus-filled centre. Nodules: Large, painful, solid bumps lodged deep within the skin layers. Cysts: Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin which can be extremely painful and also lead to scarring, if not treated promptly. CAUSES OF ACNE Several factors contribute to the development of acne and understanding the underlying causes can help prevent and treat acne. Excessive sebum production: The sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum in excess leading to clogged pores. Dead skin cells: Shedding of skin cells is a natural process but if they accumulate they can clog the hair follicles as well. Regular exfoliation can get rid of dead skin cells ensuring your pores are clean. Bacterial infection: The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) can thrive in clogged pores resulting in inflammation which gives acne eruptions the red colour we see on the surface. Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal changes brought about by puberty, menstrual cycles, or hormonal disorders and pregnancy can trigger acne. It is important to catch and treat imbalances, if any. Diet and gut health: Foods high in glycemic index and dairy products can aggravate acne in some people. Try switching to plant based options for dairy and cutting out artificial sweeteners. This will help reduce gut inflammation and subsequently help with acne. Stress: High stress levels result in the release of cortisol which in turn causes the skin to produce more sebum, worsening acne. Managing stress with mindfulness practices would be a good starting point. TREATMENT OPTIONS Treatment will often include a combination of oral and topical medications depending on the duration and severity. Oral medications could be antibiotics, prescribed for mild to moderate acne to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation and zinc supplements to prevent further eruptions. An oral retinoid, popularly known as Accutane is preserved for chronic, severe cases that may be resistant to other modalities. Topical treatments that can help calm the red, angry zits are creams, gels or serums containing benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, retinoids, niacinamide, azelaic acid and salicylic acid. In some cases, it is beneficial to seek a centre for procedures that will give you effective and long-lasting results in the treatment of acne and acne scars. In-clinic treatments can aid in faster healing and can help reduce the risk of scarring and lasting effects of acne. Chemical Peels: With salicylic acid as the active ingredient, chemical peels can help unclog pores by removing the dead skin cell layer while also killing acne causing bacteria. A quick lunch time procedure that can be done every 2 to 3 weeks and takes only 10 – 15 mins from start to finish. Microdermabrasion with serum infusions: This treatment can help unclog your pores congested with excess sebum and dead skin cells. At Skin Series, we use a pore cleansing solution along with a diamond tip to gently exfoliate, leaving you with fresh and clean skin. Microneedling: Primarily done for scarring, the tiny needles involved in this procedure help break the fibrous bands that pull the skin down giving it a pitted appearance. The results can be enhanced by combining it with other modalities like radiofrequency or PRP. Conclusion While acne can be a distressing condition, with the right understanding and treatment, it can be managed effectively. Identifying the type and underlying cause of acne is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment plan. There are different options available depending on the cause and severity to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. Remember to consult a dermatologist and create a personalised approach tailored to your specific concerns, as individual treatments may vary. You can take proactive steps and seek professional advice to regain your confidence and embrace clear, acne-free skin! Contact Dr. Natasha Shetty for personalised acne treatment in Thane. Book Your Consultation Get personalized acne treatments and expert care at our Acne Removal Clinic in Thane. Book Your Consultation