Handy tips on beautiful skin

It's unbelievable that this PYT is the mother of an 11-year-old daughter. No wonder, the talk by cosmetic physician Dr Rashmi Shetty had a full house at the Good Look workshop organised by The Britannia Good Housekeeping Show 2010, at The Grand, Vasant Kunj.

Speaking to women who had come to seek expert opinion on young skin secrets, 'the Bollywood doctor' as she is known for treating stars from the industry, laid down a few basic rules that could knock off a few years if followed religiously.

"What every woman should learn is that there is no particular skin type. The texture of the skin changes with age, climate and lifestyle choices. Even on a single day, you can have skin that goes from oily to dry or viceversa. The best way to know your skin type is to feel it early in the morning - that's your skin type."

Dr Shetty dispelled a few myths about skin and offered some valuable tips too. "We are told that fluids are good for the skin. It's true but fruit juices are to be avoided due to their high glucose content - eat fruits instead. Choose vegetable juices but churn the vegetables right or else the good nutrients would be completely lost," said the doctor.

On the scrubs suited for Indian skins, she said: "Choose those with small/ fine granules, and use sparingly on thin skin. If your skin is oily, you can use it regularly." The doctor was candid about a few skin problems that may be beyond help.

For instance, she said that after the age of 60, there was very little that could be done to restore the youthful look; another instance is of dark circles which are genetic in certain people. "Protect your skin from the sun from an early age, not just outside but even indoors. Apply sunscreen/moisturisers to save it from UVA and UVB rays."