If you want luscious locks and dewy skin during the festive season, now’s the time to emphasise skin and hair care.
Grooming guru and nutrition health coach Danielle Jones of Bridgette Jones Fashion Salon shells out a few pro tips with My Kolkata to ensure you’re glowing during the Pujas!
In the run-up to the pujas, what is a good skincare routine to follow?
When implementing a skincare routine, the first thing to keep in mind is that there are so many different skin types, each with different concerns. So, everyone cannot follow a generic skincare routine. Visit a professional esthetician for a skincare routine that suits your skin type and stick to that!
There are, however, some everyday steps that are you can follow no matter your skin type:
- Use sunscreen on a daily basis
- Take off all makeup before going to bed
- Keep your skin hydrated, constantly
- Drink enough water (one glass per hour)
- Regular facial massages (you can do this yourself, at home!)
- Using products that work for your skin type (understand that what may work for influencers on social media may not work for you)
- Invest in skincare and haircare. Compromising will show you compromised results.
Is it necessary for a good skincare routine to be elaborate?
No, I wouldn’t say there is an ideal routine. We are all bio-individuals. One can go from a minimum of three steps all the way to a 15-step routine. Exploring what works for you and your skin is a fun way to pamper yourself and curate your very own skincare rituals.
Any pro tips to keep in mind till the festivities are upon us?
I would recommend staying hydrated, wearing a hat, or using an umbrella when you’re out and about. Don’t neglect your hands and feet! And always remember to moisturise your body.
We tend to neglect our backs too. I would recommend body polishing for your back. This treatment is super luxurious and great for the month before the Pujas because you’ll be sporting gorgeous sari blouses very soon!
How do we make sure every Puja day is a #GoodHairDay?
Kolkata’s humidity and our hair are not friends, so that may be difficult!
The best way to have a good hair day while you're on the move is to keep your hair and scalp hydrated if you have dry hair and deep cleanse your scalp if it’s prone to getting oily. The best way to make sure your hair stays glamorous would be to wear it in cute ponytails or classic updos. Also, remember to always use a thermal serum or any other heat-protecting product before using heat on your hair. Using sulphate (sulfate), paraben and SLS-free shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and serums is also ideal for healthy hair.
If you have a specific problem then, opt for a specialised treatment by visiting your esthetician well in advance to see results during the festive season.
How do we get rid of blemishes so our skin is even-toned?
Exfoliating the skin a couple of times a week is great for the renewal of new skin. Lymphatic drainage using a dry brush or guasha is very beneficial for our bodies. Prolonged discoloration is something you can reduce by using professional glycolic peels, masks and polishing. This will help lighten the concerned area.
When it comes to marks and stretch marks I would say own them, embrace your body! Don’t let social media, photo shoots and commercials make you feel bad when you look in the mirror. You got this, girls! You’re beautiful stretch marks and all.
What should we eat to make sure our skin and hair are healthy?
The gut is where it all begins! What you put into your system is what you see on the outside. Maintaining a balanced diet is key.
Focus on your plate looking like a rainbow — load up on colourful fruits and vegetables. Also, never be afraid of adding good fats into your diet because they are really good for you. Also please make friends with carbs.
Your meals should make you feel nourished and energised so home-cooked meals are the best to eat on a daily basis. Hydrate yourself with water mostly but if you’re someone that finds this boring then switch it up with flavoured waters. Green juice is a good way to get all the nutrients in at once.
Any recommendations for at-home skincare? Like a papaya mask or a coffee body scrub that was trending on social media?
At-home masks are a nice way to pick yourself up and enjoy some me time. With scrubs for the body or face, make sure the granules are not going to tear your skin. So as long as they are soft and tiny, they will do the job. Anything that makes you feel like your skin is on fire is something you would want to steer clear from. Sheet masks are a great way to chill and get things done without a mess. Remember to always choose one that suits your skin type. Another great at-home skin product is under eye gel patches.
Personally, I love using an ice roller on my skin followed by a sheet mask and a good book.
