In part 4 of our series, I talk to a dear friend whose a travel writer, blogger and independent content creator/consultant like me! For someone who travels as much as her, let’s browse her skincare routine, which also includes a lot of natural ingredients for her sensitive and acne-prone skin. Don’t forget to check out her message on anxiety and mental health in Indian women too.
Q: Please tell us a little about yourself.
Q: Are there particular ingredients that have always been a part of your skincare routine?
Q: What’s your summer skincare routine?
Answer:My summer skincare routine is not very different from my winter skincare routine except for using a lighter night cream. In winters, I use Kama Ayurveda Brightening and Rejuvenating Night Cream. This summer, I switched to Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, but I don’t like it. Even though it is hydrating, my skin feels irritated. So it is definitely meant not for sensitive skin.
Since I use dermatologist-recommended products only I stick to those. Also in summers I use multani mitti on my face but don’t use that during winters as it dries out my skin.
Vishakha’s Skincare Diaries
Q: Please tell us your quarantine skincare routine and hair routine.
I am using yoghurt with besan and haldi almost daily. I have also started oiling my hair regularly now.
Q: What’s your take on cosmetic treatments?
Q: How often do you opt for a facial? Is there a particular facial you like?

Q: What’s your travel skincare routine? I know you don’t apply much makeup in daily life except for shoots so please let us in on your bare-skin secrets.
Answer: I always carry my face wash and face cream- Avene Cleanance Cleansing Gel and Avene Cicalfate Skin Repair Emulsion ( post-acne)- when I am travelling. I follow this up with sunscreen which is Bioderma Photoderm MAX Crème SPF 50+ meant for sensitive skin. I stick to minimal makeup using only concealer, kajal and lipstick. I think you don’t have to do much on a holiday as travel anyway gives you a glow. I don’t wear any makeup on a flight and make sure I carry a face cream and lip balm in my handbag.
Q: Do you take supplements for your skin and well-being?
Q: When it comes to beauty labels, how do you decide if a product is for you? Are there certain ingredients that you avoid like the plague?
Q: We know that beautiful skin has a lot to do with mental health, food and lifestyle. Please give us a snippet of the same: what do you do to tackle anxiety, clear skin?)
Answer: Mental health is critical not just for beautiful skin but overall wellbeing. Also, it is important to be a mindful eater, exercise and have a routine. I think as Indian women, we neglect ourselves so much that it almost becomes a habit. We are so good at slapping some red lipstick, ignoring all the negativity around and just going about our work… which is great but we must not overlook situations and people who can harm us. We must speak out and fix something that is troubling us. So many of us face anxiety but never really talk about it. One must delve deeper to find the root cause of it, instead of depending on quick fixes like anti-depressants.
Also, while we mostly work for money, it is vital to pursue your passion and find time to do things you like. This could include anything- travel, trying different types of beers, spending time at an animal NGO or going to a salsa class. Never feel guilty about spending time doing things that you like.