If there’s anyone you should be asking all your skincare doubts to, it’s Jaishree Sharad. The leading celebrity cosmetic dermatologist is also the author of two lifestyle books: Skin Rules and Skin Talks. But we reached out to her before you could, and she sets the record straight on all the skincare trends doing the rounds. Expect everything from the efficacy of BB creams and Moroccan oils to the effects of multivitamins and the vegan diet. Thank us later!
1. Beauty Book: What is a BB cream? What’s the rage about?
Jaishree Sharad: “BB creams, also known as Blemish Balm, Blemish Base or Beblesh Balm, were initially used to protect skin after laser procedures and surgery. It also provides protection from sunlight depending upon the SPF factor of the cream. Celebrities in Korea attributed their flawless skin to the product. BB cream is like a thick tinted moisturizer with SPF. Some BB creams have skin lightening agents such as arbutin. Almost all of them have sunscreen in them. Some have aloe vera and moisturizers as well. They’ve become so popular because they offer moisturizer, foundation, primer and sun protection all in one tube. They’re easy to use. However, in cases of photosensitivity, use of medicated sunscreen is advisable before applying makeup.”
Nykaa Recommends: Garnier Skin Naturals BB Cream SPF 24/PA+++
2. BB: Is Moroccan Oil as good as it is made out to be?
JS: “Moroccan oil is essentially argan oil. It’s produced from the kernels of the argan tree fruit. These trees grow in a few countries such as Morocco, hence the high price. The oil consists of a blend of oleic and linoleic acids. It is also rich in vitamin E, phenols, and carotenes. Thus it works well on extremely dry, frizzy and coarse hair. Remember not to use it in case you suffer from dandruff, folliculitis or seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is also highly comedogenic, that is, it blocks the pores and causes acne/whiteheads. Hence it’s not advisable to use it if you have an oily skin.”
Nykaa Recommends: Tree Hut Shea Moisturizing Moroccan Rose Body Lotion
3.BB: Should I be taking a nail, hair and skin support multivitamin?
JS: “The key to healthy hair, nails and skin is a good, balanced diet, plenty of water adequate sleep (average six to eight hours) and regular exercise. It’s also important to increase your consumption of fruit and vegetables. These foods are rich in minerals, vitamins and nutrients.”
If you follow these basic principles, there’s no need to take supplements. Irregular meal timings, inadequate sleep and stress cause mineral and vitamin deficiencies. Fatigue, hair loss, dull skin and aching bones are common fallouts of such a lifestyle. In such situations, taking a multivitamin can help.
Nykaa Recommends: Swisse Beauty Hair Skin Nails
4. BB: Does being a vegan meddle with our skincare?
JS: “If you’re a vegan, it’s likely that your diet is lower in saturated fat, cholesterol, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, calcium, zinc, and vitamin B12. Vegetarian food sources are lacking in vitamin B12. It’s a vital nutrient required for the formation and maturation of red blood cells, the synthesis of DNA and for normal nerve function. Hence those deficient in vitamin B12 should take supplements. If your lifestyle forces you to spend long hours indoors, you may need to take calcium and vitamin D3 supplements. Vegans are advised to eat three servings per day of a high-calcium food, such as fortified soy milk, almonds, hazelnuts and a calcium supplement if required.
Nykaa Recommends: Inlife Coenzyme Q10 with Bioperine (Piperine Extract) Supplement - 60 Vegetarian Capsules(200mg)
5. BB: What are sacrosanct nutrients nobody should miss out on?
JS: “A varied number of vitamins and minerals are necessary for healthy skin. Vitamin A prevents skin from becoming dry and flaky, while vitamin C is important for the production of collagen and prevent blemishes. Vitamin E helps to rehydrate the skin, damp down inflammation and speed up the healing process and both vitamins C and E are rich antioxidants, highly recommended for all smokers. Minerals and antioxidants combat free radicles and help retain the youthfulness of skin. Proteins and biotin are required for healthy hair and nails. However, instead of popping pills, it’s best to adopt a healthy lifestyle and make sensible dietary choices.”
Nykaa Recommends: GNC Women's One Daily Multivitamin Tablets
