Skincare Myths on the Internet Debunked by Skincare Expert – Dr. Megha Chaturvedi

Skincare Myths on the Internet Debunked by Skincare Expert – Dr. Megha Chaturvedi

Thanks to the internet & old wives’ tales, there are ‘n’ numbers of skincare advice being thrown around—and not all of it is good. In fact, some of this ‘advice’ can really be harmful to your skin & health. With the help of Dr. Megha Chaturvedi (BAMS), a skincare specialist at Dr. Health, I investigated five common skin care claims to see exactly why they don’t hold up. Continue to read this article, and see what I found out below, plus, get recommendations for what you should be doing instead. 

Everyone wants to feel beautiful with the skin they’re in. So, to take care of your skin, you purchase a bunch of products, listen to advice on the internet or from friends & family, and think you’re set. But unfortunately, it is not always as simple as that. 

Today, my blog is all set & prepared to bust some very popular myths on the internet. I asked Dr. Megha Chaturvedi, consultant skincare expert at Dr. Health, to clear up the truth behind these common beauty fables… So without further ado, let’s start with. Here are a few skincare myths you don’t want to be fooled by.

Not Washing your Face Causes Acne & Breakouts

Myth #1:Not Washing your Face Causes Acne & Breakouts

Fact: By stating this, I am not upholding unhygienic practices. Hygiene is critical to each individual’s overall health & also plays an important role in skincare. Dr. Megha Chaturvedi says, “Hygiene doesn't play a vital role in the development of Acne. Acne involves oil production, bacteria, clogged pores, & inflammation, with hormones & stress playing a significant role and diet (to a lesser extent) for some individuals.” Not washing your face might not be a great idea when it comes to managing breakouts & Acne, but it is not the definitive cause that leads to them.

Higher the SPF, the Better the Sun Protection

Myth #2: Higher the SPF, the Better the Sun Protection

FactBelieve it or not, but this is a myth that most of us have fallen for while shopping for sunscreen. Most of the individuals are under the impression that if SPF is higher, the sunscreen will provide better sun protection & prevent them from tanning. However, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) works inversely – above a higher SPF barely has any benefits over a lower SPF. An SPF 30 blocks 97% UV rays, whereas SPF 50 blocks 98% UV rays. Dr. Megha says, “SPF 30 is more than sufficient for everyday use, and anything higher than this is just a marketing gimmick and an unnecessary feed for your skin.”

You’ll Age Faster if you Wear Makeup Regularly

Myth #3: You’ll Age Faster if you Wear Makeup Regularly

Fact: Makeup is a women’s best friend, but is it true that makeup can turn into an enemy which causes premature aging? Honestly speaking, this is a myth that I was eager to bust. With a good skincare routine, there is nothing on this planet that can make you age faster. Dr. Megha Chaturvedi says, “one needs to ensure that they are using good quality products & then removing them all before they call it for the day. And, these two things will go a very long way.” 

Dark Circles are a Sign you're Tired

Myth #4: Dark Circles are a Sign you're Tired.

Fact: Dark circles are often considered the universal sign of being tired. While a lack of sleep can cause dark circles under your eyes, it’s not the only possible cause. “Discoloration around the eyes occurs when blood & fluids are not circulating efficiently”, points out Dr. Megha Chaturvedi. She also says, “you might be wondering why you have dark circles if you are not tired. A variety of factors can cause you to look tired & worn down.”

Yes, a lack of sleep can definitely exacerbate the issue, but it is not the only cause. It could mean that you have a lack of iron or are not getting enough oxygen, she adds. Not to mention, dark circles also become much more prominent the thinner the skin is, and that naturally occurs with age.

Only Teenagers can Get Acne & Pimples

Myth #5: Only Teenagers can Get Acne & Pimples

Fact: As teenagers, we are often told that we will eventually outgrow Acne as we grow up. Though it is true that teenagers get Acne as they go through puberty & have fluctuating levels of hormones, they are not the only ones who can get it. But, Dr. Megha Chaturvedi (BAMS) claims, “Acne can occur at any point in our lives, including adulthood. While pregnancy & menopause are the common culprits of Acne & pimples, poor lifestyle habits, inadequate water intake, irregular eating habits, pollution, etc., can cause it too.” 

Unfortunately, acne triggers are not age-dependent but can be managed using herbal Ayurvedic treatment & skincare remedies. Basic habits like cleansing twice a day, following the basic skincare routine, always taking off your makeup at night, and eating well can go a long way in achieving clearer & better-nourished skin, she says.

Words from Dr. Megha Chaturvedi

Stay away from these skincare myths and follow the right advice. At the end of the day, there is a lot of information out there that might not be true. In fact, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t. Plus, there are so many people out there who either claim to be experts or find skincare hacks that they think are game-changers but aren’t doing your skin any favors.

Now, it’s time to put your knowledge up & put together a skincare routine that can help keep your complexion in tip-top shape.

Written By: KANIKA GIRDHAR

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6 Common Skin Problems In Summers

6 Common Skin Problems In Summers

When riding through these busy roads to my office, I have seen many people who are indulged in their daily work without even using any sunblocks or any accessories such as a hat, mask, or sunglasses. This has made me to wonder that there will be thousands of people who go through such difficulties in their lives, and this has insisted me to inform everyone about the skin problems that one face in the summers.

Every one of us has to go outside, maybe to work, go shopping, or play, so it is essential to understand the consequences of sun exposure.

I personally advise children, young adults, and working men and women to foresee the dangerous effects of sun exposure as they cause changes in the skin, Early aging, Eye injury, Lowered immune system, and skin cancer. In this blog, 6 common skin problems that people experience in the summer will be discussed.

 

Sunburn

Sunburn

Sunburn is the most common problem that most people struggle with in the summer season. Sunburn is mainly caused when an individual's skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light for a more extended time. When your skin is exposed to the sun, your body protects itself by producing melanin faster. The extra melanin causes the tan that we see when we come out of the sun. But if we expose ourselves for a longer time to the sun, it can burn our skin and cause red rashes and other complications.

Heat Rash

Heat Rash

Heat rash develops on our skin when the sweat glands under the skin surface get blocked or inflamed. The blockage or inflammation is mainly caused due to increased heat and humidity. When these ducts get blocked, the sweat does not evaporate; rather than that, it gets trapped beneath the skin. When heat rash develops, it will cause the formation of an itchy rash that results in tiny red bumps. This skin problem is also called prickly skin. You can prevent it by avoiding exposure to the sun and by wearing loose-fitting clothing.

Acne Breakouts

Acne Breakouts

Acne formation mainly takes place when oil and bacteria get clogged in the pores of the skin. When you are out in the sun exposing yourself to harmful rays, it can cause excessive sweatiness. When we sweat, it causes oil and bacteria to build up, which gives the perfect environment for acne to develop. If you are struggling with an acne problem, it is recommended to take precautions to avoid sweating and use clean towels to cleanse your face and with that, wash your sweaty clothes before use.

Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Psoriasis Flare-Ups

People who have psoriasis can actually struggle with a major outbreak in the season of summer. While a moderate amount of sun can relieve your symptoms, over-exposure and the excessive heat can cause sunburns, rashes, and itchiness that can flare up psoriasis. Mainly heat and sweat flare up psoriasis on your scalp and face. Therefore, it is advised to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen if you plan to go out in the sun for more than ten-fifteen minutes.

Dry-Irritated Skin

Dry-Irritated Skin

When exposing ourselves to hot air and humid weather, it can cause dryness and irritation on the skin. The dryness and irritation might be temporary, but if excessive irritation occurs, it can cause us to itch more harshly, which might cause scarring. Dryness of the skin can also cause a crack, which might allow bacteria to enter and cause infections. If dry, irritated skin is not treated in time, it can cause atopic dermatitis that can cause rash and cracking skin.

 Sun Allergy 

 Sun Allergy 

People who are sensitive to the sunlight can develop allergies, and the most common sun allergy is polymorphic light eruptions which are also known as sun poisoning. When sun allergy affects one's skin, it can cause redness, itchiness, Scaling, Blisters, and tiny bumps. Sun allergy can also occur if an individual is on some medication that reacts upon the skin when exposed to the sunlight. Some of the medications are ketoprofen, tetracycline, doxycycline, etc. 

All the above-given information is delivered to inform the people about the harmful effects of sun exposure and some skin complications one might go through in the summer season. Being aware of these skin problems, one can opt for a better resolution if they expose themselves to the sun or are living in a place where temperatures are high.

We at Dr.Health have dedicated our services to the betterment of people struggling with skin problems. Here at Dr. Health, the treatment is based on the ancient science of Ayurveda that uses herbal medicines, a suitable diet, and appropriate exercise for the betterment of people affected with Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Acne, and Eczema.

Author Name: Shijo V Thomas

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Is It Safe To Drink Milk After Chicken? Here’s The Answer!

is it safe to drink milk after chicken

Do you think twice before taking milk because you had chicken or fish for lunch or dinner? It's not just you – there are many who are uncertain about this combination, which is considered harmful. In fact, some even believe the combination can give you white spots or infections.

An expert Ayurvedic practitioner from Dr. Health - Dr. Megha Chaturvedi says, "Chicken & milk must never be consumed together. It can cause terrible allergies."

It is the popular belief that the combination of certain foods & drinks, due to their properties, are not acclaimed for human consumption. Even an Ayurveda principle states – Foods requiring different digestive environments need to be consumed in isolation. Therefore, it is mandatory to eat the appropriate type of combination at the right time or interval to avoid ruining your health.

What Happens When We Drink Milk After Chicken?

Since time immemorial, one big glass of milk has been a favorite nutritional portion for Indian mothers. For its ‘n’ numbers of health benefits, milk has been hyped as a complete food. Barring iron, milk is packed with all vital nutrients, such as carbs, fats, fibers, proteins, and vitamins. Perhaps, this is why the people who are quite wary of the time should be cautious before having milk, the quantity of milk, & what all they should be teaming milk with. 

For instance, some people say milk should not be teamed with chicken or fish or any other non-veg foodstuff as it can cause tummy problems due to upset doshas. A modern-day Ayurveda expert, Dr. Megha Chaturvedi, also claims that the combination may also trigger white spots (called vitiligo).  

As per Ayurveda, the primary reason for this is the misbalance of three doshas – Kapha, Vata, & Pitta. This may wreak havoc on one’s health & well-being. The combination of milk with chicken (or any non-veg stuff) might not be a good idea as the digestion process of milk differs from the digestion process of chicken (rich in protein). At the same time, it takes longer to digest milk due to the protein (called casein) in it. Having both foods together may hinder the overall digestion process. Having milk & chicken might therefore cause toxins to accumulate in the body.

Frequent consumption of this combination can even lead to adverse effects in the long run. These effects may include gut-related issues like stomach ache, indigestion, nausea, bloating, gas, ulcers, bad odor, constipation, acid reflux, etc. This is, however, not scientifically proven & is an observation that is based on individual experiences of people who might have consumed milk chicken at times or frequently.

Another usually perceived side-effect of consuming milk chicken together is skin patches or disorders. This ailment is called vitiligo – a skin pigmentation issue that causes white spots on the skin, & with no known reasons for its occurrence. Apparently, even this notion has no scientific proof. Both milk and chicken have different sets of proteins. Even, the protein included in chicken might be far more complex than the protein found in milk, & even for people who are lactose-tolerant, the mixing of these two kinds of proteins during digestion may not be appropriate. 

To know different causes of vitiligo, click on the below link. Subscribe our channel and stay tuned for more updates.

Final Verdict

All the aforesaid information mentioned may not be applicable for people who have a strong digestive system and can easily digest any sort of food or food combinations. Those with sensitive digestion should avoid milk chicken (or milk & any non-vegetarian) together. Let us tell you that eating such food can cause many skin problems, such as psoriasis, code, & leucoderma (vitiligo). Yes, it takes time to digest meat & for this reason, non-vegetarian food should not be consumed for at least 3 hours after the consumption of milk.

A healthy diet also means keeping away from toxic or harmful food items or food combinations in order to ensure a better way of lifestyle. After all, a healthy gut is essential to sustain & also promote a healthy body!

Author Name – Kanika Girdhar

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Have You Ever Wondered Why Psoriasis Patients Are Asked To keep track of Their Diet? 

Diet For Psoriasis Patients

Present days are so advanced that various treatments are available to manage Psoriasis, from skin ointments to medications that alter your immune system. But have you ever wondered that your food intake itself could impact Psoriasis and cause it to aggravate? And just by taking care of what you eat, you can keep Psoriasis at its bay.

Psoriasis affects approximately 125 million people around the world, which means 2-3% of the global population gets affected by some form of Psoriasis. Here you will get to know dedicated research on how to keep psoriasis flare-ups undisturbed.  

What Is The Relation Between Your Diet And Your Struggle With Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a noncontagious autoimmune skin disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the skin cells(keratinocytes). When Psoriasis occurs, the skin cells tend to multiply ten times faster than the standard rate causing plaques to form up on the skin that can be red, scaly, itchy, and pain full. Psoriasis mainly affects the scalp, elbow, knees, and lower back. Psoriasis can sometimes develop due to hereditary factors. 
When struggling with Psoriasis, these are some conditions that can be visible. But what really affects is your food intake, as specific food items can increase inflammation and make psoriasis symptoms much worse.

How Food Provokes Inflammation? 

Inflammatory Food

There are several studies that are currently going on about how certain food items prompt an inflammation reaction. The research proposes that food items that are highly processed make our defence system weak and exhausted.

For example, fatty food items increase inflammation in adipose tissue, which is throughout our body. This fat tissue inflammation increases the risk of worsening Psoriasis. It is stated that obesity is a risk factor that causes and aggravates Psoriasis.

The Worst Enemies of Psoriasis

Various food items act as triggers for Psoriasis in some people. These food items cause inflammation due to the specific properties contained in them. If you are experiencing any flare-ups after consuming a certain food item, contact your doctor or an Ayurvedic Physician so that an appropriate diet can be recommended. Some of the food items that should be avoided to make sure Psoriasis doesn’t aggravate are as follows.

Alchohol

Consuming excessive alcohol overburdens the liver as it has to work more than usual to metabolize it. While metabolizing alcohol, the liver produces chemicals that can lead to long-term inflammation. Alcohol also damages the good bacteria in the stomach, leading to inflammation in your colon and intestines. 

Dairy Products

Dairy Products

Dairy products that are rich in fat, such as cheese and milk, are linked with inflammation that causes or aggravates Psoriasis. This occurs because milk products contain casein, a protein that can cause indigestion problems. Some people are even lactose intolerant as they do not have enough digestive enzyme lactase. Long-term gastrointestinal irritation from these conditions can cause severe inflammation. Some people have seen improvement after letting of dairy products from their diet.

Refined Carbohydrates

Refined Carbohydrated Foods

Refined carbohydrates are made after using processing agents(white bread, pasta, pastries, and breakfast cereals). These carbohydrates increase the sugar levels in the blood, which promotes glycation end products, a substance in your blood that can cause inflammation.

Trans and saturated fat

Saturated Fat & Trans Fat Foods

Trans fat and saturated fat are unhealthy for consumption as they cause various ailments such as heart attack, strokes, cholesterol, and obesity. It can also cause inflammation and flare-ups when struggling with Psoriasis. The inflammation is caused because these fats increase the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the blood, which is also called bad cholesterol. Research has shown that excess fat in the body can cause the development of Psoriasis and even worsen it.  

High Sugar Diet

High Sugar Diet 

Artificial sugar, which is found in soda, fruit juices, sweets, and baked food items, is the worst enemy of our body but not the sugar that is naturally present in fruits. This is because our body produces insulin to process the glucose that has been consumed in the form of manufactured sugar, and when there are higher levels of added sugar, our body stores the extra energy in fat cells, causing inflammation in the fat tissue. Food that has higher sugar levels can lead to inflammation due to an increase in an inflammatory protein called cytokines. 

Gluten Product

Gluten Products 

Gluten is a bunch of proteins present in wheat and other similar grains such as rye, barley, and oats. Some people have sensitivity to gluten, and if you are struggling with Psoriasis, gluten can originate inflammation and worsen it by developing diarrhea, heartburn, stomach pain, and cramps. To know whether you are sensitive to gluten, consult a doctor or an Ayurvedic physician. 

Foods That Are Friendly 

As there are foods that trigger inflammation when struggling with Psoriasis, there are also foods that can help to combat inflammation. Generally, having a balanced diet and by not consuming inflammatory food items help to fight inflammation caused by Psoriasis. Less inflammatory food items can reduce flare-ups and make psoriasis symptoms less severe. Some of them are

Healthy Diet
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Lean Protein, or plant-based protein
  • Beans and Lentils
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Olive Oil
  • Whole Grain
  • Small amounts of unsaturated fat

Dr. Health has dedicated its services to treating patients struggling with Psoriasis under the expertise of Dr. Megha Chaturvedi, who has devoted her life to treating patients struggling with various skin disorders. As a result, Dr. health is successful in treating thousands of patients struggling with skin problems such as vitiligo, Eczema, Acne, and Psoriasis. 

Written By: Shijo V Thomas

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Dr. Megha Chaturvedi’s Skincare Routine –The Secret to Look Youthful in your 30s

Looking for skincare advice? Do you ever wonder what skincare tips dermatologists use themselves to maintain a healthy skincare routine? Enter, a dermatologist. Well, the expert dermatologist – Dr. Megha Chaturvedi generously shared some of her best skin-care tips with us.

Dr. Megha Chaturvedi has been in the Derma industry for over seven years now. Apart from being an expert dermatologist, she is a fitness enthusiast and a beautiful mama, as well. Her patients often look up to her style cues, fitness tips, and beauty secrets. I mean, people want to know the secret behind her youthful-looking skin & the facts about her beauty. 

Continue to read this article, an expert dermatologist – Dr. Megha Chaturvedi shares five skincare tips she recommends to all of her patients – and actually uses themselves. 

Skin

1). She Always Keeps Her Skin Hydrated 
Dr. Megha believes the best way to take care of our skin is by following a simple skincare routine. She strongly believes that we must use moisturizers before we apply our makeup. She also applies a good moisturizer always after taking a shower. Dr. Megha starts her day with a glass of lukewarm water with two Amlas squeezed in. Amla contains high vitamin C content, which helps maintain hair and skincare. She also drinks 2-3 liters of water daily with all this. 
Lower water levels in the body can cause dry skin, Oily skin, fungal infections, and acne. In order to keep our skin hydrated, using topical applications is not enough. Also, you need to treat your skin internally.

2). She Never Steps Out Without SPF 
Dr. Megha wears sunscreen like her life depends on it. She doesn’t step out without applying a generous layer of sunscreen (with a good amount of SPF) on her face & body. She also wears a layer of sunscreen at home to shield her skin from harmful sun rays that might penetrate via the glass windows.
An excellent quality sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA & UVB rays, and it is essential to keep the harsh UV sun rays at bay & protect your skin from prematurely aging. 

3). She Uses a Mild Face Wash 
She doesn’t use a lot of skincare products. She always tries to keep her skin healthy by simply relying on a few genuine skincare products. Apart from a good sunscreen & moisturizer, Dr. Megha relies greatly on mild face washes. She washes her face twice a day, in order to keep the grime and dirt away. She is strictly against using soap on the face as the soap contains harsh chemicals that may damage the top layer of your skin.

4). She Never Misses Yoga
Dr. Megha makes sure to engage herself in Yoga for at least 30 minutes every day. Practicing Yoga on a daily basis helps to improve skin texture by promoting blood circulation. By following a strict Yoga regime, common skin problems like acne, wrinkles, & dullness will stay away. Yoga has been practiced since the ancient times, & it is the best natural way to keep our skincare up to date.

5). She Always Goes for a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can help you look & feel your best. Dr. Megha prefers to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. She eats a diet rich in fish oil supplements and low in unhealthy fats & processed or refined carbohydrates that promote younger-looking skin. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated.

All those who follow Dr. Megha Chaturvedi on social media channels – Instagram & Facebook know how much people love to pamper her skin. Her life's mantra is to eat good, exercise every day, and follow a healthy lifestyle. As she is an Ayurvedic practitioner - she is always on the lookout for effective & all-natural remedies. She also prescribes herbal & Ayurvedic medicines to her patients. And, whenever she finds a home remedy that is worth sharing, she either makes a video about it or drops a post on her social media.

Author Name:  Kanika Girdhar

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