The festive season, from Ganesh Chaturthi to Navratri, often brings a rush of facials, peels and laser treatments in the quest for glowing skin. But squeezing too many procedures into a short window can leave skin irritated rather than radiant. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ashok Patel, aesthetic surgeon, founder and chief medical officer, Brilliance Cosmocare, explains why timing matters. (Also read: Wellness trend has adults taking magnesium supplements ‘like toffees’: Doctor explains who actually needs them )
Botox and fillers may also be part of pre-event beauty routines, but swelling and bruising can take time to settle. “With injectables, patients need to account for swelling, bruising and the time required for the final result to settle. The appearance immediately after treatment is not necessarily the final result,” explains Dr Patel. For an important event, he recommends discussing the timing with a qualified medical professional well in advance. Besan, multani mitti, lemon and baking soda are common DIY skincare ingredients, but repeatedly layering them, especially after professional treatments, can irritate the skin. “Home remedies can also irritate the skin, particularly when several ingredients are combined or used repeatedly. He advises avoiding lemon and other potentially irritating kitchen ingredients on the face, particularly around periods of increased sun exposure.
The risk is higher when the skin has recently undergone a professional procedure,” says Dr Patel.
Space procedures out, patch test new products, avoid harsh DIY ingredients after professional treatments, moisturise regularly and wear sunscreen during daytime outings. Most importantly, consult a qualified dermatologist or aesthetic doctor before combining procedures.
Start preparing three to four weeks before the festival rather than trying multiple treatments in the final few days.
