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GulfWeekly’s columnist Preety Praveen talks about empathising with your skin to yield the best results, as the weather gradually changes, advocating home remedies and mindful skincare.
The largest organ of our body is our skin, and like every other vital part, it requires mindful care and attention. Sadly, many of us take it for granted, only realising its importance when problems begin to surface.
One of the biggest mistakes we make is ignoring our skin type. Each person’s skin is unique—whether oily, dry, sensitive, or a combination—and it reacts differently to products. Blindly following trends or copying others often makes conditions worse instead of better. The first step toward healthy, glowing skin is awareness: know your skin type, listen to its signals, and choose products wisely. Hydration, proper nutrition, rest and protection from harsh sun or pollution are just as important as any cream or serum you may buy.
As a teenager with oily skin, I spent years struggling with lumpy pimples and worrying about the marks they might leave behind. It was a tough time, often filled with frustration. The best decision I made, however, was to rely on simple home remedies. Natural care not only helped me manage breakouts but also kept my skin clean and safe without harsh side effects. Looking back, I realise that listening to my skin and treating it gently made all the difference.
Over time, I discovered that oily skin was a blessing in disguise. It spared me the constant need for moisturisers—though, of course, it still needed attention. But the real turning point came last year when I was preparing for a beauty pageant. I wanted my skin to glow naturally on my special day. While I had the option of choosing chemical-based products, I once again turned to natural remedies. The bigger challenge was that I was also on a journey of drastic weight loss; skin often sags during this process. Determined to care for both my health and beauty, I sought proper guidance, researched budget-friendly products suitable for my skin, and learned the right techniques of massage, application, and—most importantly—what to avoid. That dedication helped me protect my skin through the transition, keeping it healthy and radiant.
For me, radiant skin doesn’t just brighten the face—it uplifts the inner self. A proper routine, the right products, and a positive mindset can transform your entire aura. Over the years, I’ve stayed loyal to natural ingredients such as gram flour, curd, coffee, rice flour, oils like jasmine, sandalwood, jojoba and ginseng, Vitamin C serum, and the humble Vaseline. Yet, I believe the true secret to beautiful skin is far simpler: a happy mind and sound sleep. When you nourish your skin from the inside out—with peace and positivity—the glow becomes effortless and lasting.
Taking care of your skin may feel time-consuming, but it is never impossible. With consistency, it not only helps you look and feel younger but also boosts your confidence.
If you already have a skincare routine, I would love to hear from you. We can all learn and grow together. And if you haven’t started yet, today is the best time. Understand your skin, give it the care it deserves, and let it reward you with a natural, timeless glow.
Preety is a psychologist and author. Views expressed are the columnist’s.
