Numerous options available today can make it tempting to try the latest trending treatment in pursuit of that coveted festive glow. With Diwali just around the corner, the festive calendar is filling up with family gatherings, parties and picture-perfect moments, and many are hoping to put their best face forward with brighter, smoother-looking skin. But before booking an appointment, it is worth taking a step back.
In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Akriti Gupta – the founder and chief dermatologist at Jivisha Clinic, Gujrawalan Town and Yamuna Vihar, New Delhi – points out that the secret to radiant skin is not chasing a quick fix, but understanding your skin’s concerns and choosing a treatment that is best suited for you.
Ultimately, festive skincare should be personalised. The goal is not to do the maximum number of treatments before Diwali, but to choose the right treatment for the right concern at the right time. Healthy, comfortable skin is a better starting point than an aggressive last-minute attempt at perfection. “I advise patients not to combine several new treatments in the hope of getting faster results. Introducing too many active ingredients or procedures at once can compromise the skin barrier and increase the risk of irritation. Daily sunscreen, suitable moisturising and avoiding harsh home remedies remain important, even when professional treatments are part of the routine,” the dermatologist concludes. Dr Akriti Gupta is a highly qualified dermatologist and cosmetologist with over a decade of clinical experience, primarily practicing at Jivisha Clinic in Yamuna Vihar, East Delhi. She specialises in anti-ageing treatments, acne solutions, laser procedures, and advanced skincare therapies.
“Excessive scrubbing, aggressive extractions, unfamiliar products or strong exfoliating ingredients can trigger irritation, particularly in people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. A facial can improve the appearance of the skin temporarily, but it will not necessarily treat persistent pigmentation, deep acne scars or other underlying concerns. Dr Gupta advises, “Ideally, festive skin preparation should begin several weeks in advance, particularly when a person is considering a peel or laser procedure for the first time. This allows time for consultation, treatment planning and recovery. Someone with only a few days left may be better served by a familiar, gentle skincare routine than by experimenting with an unfamiliar procedure.”
“However, not every facial is suitable for everyone,” highlights Dr Gupta.
