ASK A DERMATOLOGIST

How often should I exfoliate?

While there’s no hard and fast rule on how frequently you need to exfoliate – as it depends on the exfoliant, how powerful it is, and what else you’re using – you definitely need to do it. As a general rule of thumb, I would advise one to two times per week.

Do I need different products for morning and evening?

There are a few important tweaks for your evening routine. At night, cleanser may need to include a makeup remover in it. And moisturisers should be thicker and more hydrating at night. Once a week, you should also use a face mask at night.

What’s the best age to start using anti-aging products or procedures?

The best time to start addressing wrinkles is once you see them in the mirror. Usually, this is noticeable in your late 20s. But you can take preventive measures, like diligent sunscreen use, way before that – like now. It’s the most effective and affordable anti-aging product out there.

What’s the best way to treat dark spots?

Not all dark spots are treated equal. The best treatment depends on what caused the spot in the first place. Some are classic sun spots, which we can treat with lasers, while others might be associated with melasma, a hormonally triggered hyperpigmentation, which we’re more likely to treat with peels and topicals – as lasers can potentially exacerbate it. A vitamin C serum goes a long way to even out skin tone and lighten pigmentation. Last but not the least, always use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to avoid getting dark spots while you’re treating any existing ones.

Should you be using mineral or chemical sunscreen? Does it matter?

Go for mineral. Mineral sunscreens protect against a larger range of ultraviolet light and are more efficacious. Chemical sunscreens can be absorbed in the body and can also cause an irritant or allergic reaction on the skin.

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