Latest news with #ShifaYadav
Hindustan Times
26-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
World Sunscreen Day: Everything you need to know about how sunblock works,from ideal SPF range to UV protection
World Sunscreen Day 2025: May 27 is observed as World Sunscreen Day, also known as National Sunscreen Day. It serves as a very important reminder of how valuable sunscreen is for your skin health. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risks of premature ageing, sun damage, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Most importantly, sunscreen is not just a seasonal summer product; it is a non-negotiable year-round essential, regardless of weather or season. ALSO READ: Do you assume sunscreen is unnecessary for dark skin tones? Know the danger that hits melanin-rich complexions harder On this day, let's take a closer look at sunscreen essentials. HT Lifestyle reached out to experts to help you understand how to protect your skin effectively, from knowing how sunscreen works, SPF requirements, to sunscreen for children. First, let's break down how sunscreen works. Dr Shifa Yadav, Consultant, Dermatology and Cosmetology at Artemis Hospitals, unpacked the science behind sunscreen and what SPF truly means for your skin. She said, 'Sunscreens can be regarded as an invisible shield your skin uses to defend itself from harmful sun rays. Their usage is not restricted to only tanning prevention; rather, their key purpose is to avoid any form of damage the skin could receive. Sunscreen is a shield for your skin, forming a layer that blocks or reflects the damaging ultraviolet rays of the sun, especially the UVB rays, so well researched to cause sunburns and greatly enhance the risk of skin cancer." Moreover, Dr Shifa Yadav shared a detailed guide on how much SPF is enough: Now that we are done with SPF, you may have probably come across the term broad spectrum as well. One common misconception is that people often focus mostly on the SPF number when choosing a sunscreen. But true protection lies in a combination of both SPF and broad-spectrum coverage. Malini Adapureddy, CEO & Founder of skincare brand, Deconstruct, explained, "The most effective sunscreen is one that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. While UVB rays cause visible burns, it is the deeper-penetrating UVA rays that silently accelerate ageing and pigmentation. In a country like India, where sun exposure is high year-round, this dual protection is non-negotiable. Many people focus on SPF numbers alone, but the real measure of protection lies in how comprehensively a sunscreen defends the skin. Broad spectrum isn't a luxury, it is the minimum standard for maintaining long-term skin health." With so much conversation around sunscreen being an absolute unskippable daily essential, what about children? More than adults, children are vulnerable to sun damage because of their sensitive skin. Which sunscreen is most suitable for children? Should your children even apply sunscreen? Dr Mikki Singh, Founder and Head Dermatologist at Bodycraft Clinics and Salon, firmly emphasised the importance of sunscreen for children. She said, 'Yes, children should absolutely use sunscreen. Early sun protection helps prevent sunburn, long-term skin damage, and lowers the risk of skin cancer later in life.' Dr Singh shared a guide for parents, helping them to guide sunscreen use for children: Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
11-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Mother's Day 2025: Dermat shares 5 skincare tips every new mom needs while caring for a newborn
Mother's Day 2025: On May 11, as we celebrate Mother's Day, let's take a moment to shift the focus to new moms who are juggling diaper changes, midnight feedings, and baby bawling in the middle of the night. Skincare is one of the ultimate self-care rituals, but when new moms barely have time to breathe or catch a wink of sleep, it's typically the last thing on their minds. Skin health takes a hit as baby care duties sweep it under the carpet. But even with all the overwhelming baby duties, new moms, despite being busy, can still sneak in some quick skincare that's both simple and effective. ALSO READ: Mother's Day 2025: Expert tips to support the mental wellbeing of working, stay-at-home and single moms In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shifa Yadav, Consultant, Dermatology and Cosmetology at Artemis Hospitals, shared effective skincare tips for new moms that can fit in even the busiest schedules without taking up a lot of time and energy. Dr Shifa Yadav shared this detailed guide with us that covers all the essentials you need to know as a new mom or someone who knows a new mom. Here's the guide that the dermat shared: Dr Shifa, other than skincare, also shared tips on nutrition for new moms to glow from the inside out. She said, 'Healthy skin begins from within. Consume foods that are high in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, berries, and oranges. Include omega-3 fatty foods such as salmon for skin hydration and lean proteins for repair. Rest is also essential; sleep whenever you can. A good sleep allows your skin to heal and shine. Both good food and good sleep can work wonders for your skin.' ALSO READ: Mother's Day 2025: Dietician shares the role of gut health in every mom's journey, recommends 7 essential nutrition tips Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
29-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Are you having enough omega-3 for your skin? Know 5 common food sources and when you should take supplements
Skincare products can do only so much if you are not taking care of your skin health from within. It's not just what's on your vanity but also what's on your plate. If you are not meeting the adequate nutrients because your diet is improper, then the deficiencies will show up despite your efforts, in the form of skin issues like dryness, irritation and early ageing. Omega-3 fatty acid is one such nutrient that you cannot afford to miss out on. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shifa Yadav, Consultant, Dermatology and Cosmetology at Artemis Hospitals, shared the importance of Omega-3 for your skin health, and answered questions like when one should take Omega-3 supplements. Dr Shifa Yadav shared these conditions, which indicate low Omega-3 levels: Now that you are aware of the signs of Omega-3 deficiency, here are some essential benefits Dr Shifa shared: With smart dietary choices, one can increase their Omega-3 intake. The food sources are diverse, from fish for pescatarians to great vegan alternatives. Here are 5 food sources that Dr Shifa shared: ALSO READ: Want to add more omega-3s to your diet? This fish is nature's best kept secret Food is one of the top sources, but sometimes it may fall short, and this is where supplements step in. But the question arises: how do you know if you need them at all? Dr Shifa addressed the questions and answered, 'Food must always be your priority for obtaining omega-3, but supplements can be beneficial in some cases. You may require an omega-3 supplement if you do not eat fish or plant sources regularly or you have recurrent dry skin, redness, eczema, or acne outbreaks. A doctor can also prescribe supplements if a blood test indicates low levels of omega-3. Others with high inflammation, cardiovascular risk, autoimmune diseases, or who follow strict vegan or vegetarian diets might need additional support.' ALSO READ: Are weight loss supplements useless? Nutrition coach reveals truth Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
