The realm of overall wellness extends far beyond just physical health, encompassing the vital aspects of skin and hair care, particularly in the South Asian community. This community, rich in diversity and culture, exhibits unique characteristics in its skin and hair that set it apart. South Asian skin, often characterised by its melanin richness, offers distinct advantages, such as natural UV protection. Similarly, the hair, typically known for its volume and texture, demands specialised care to maintain its health and vibrancy.
These unique features highlight the importance of personalised and culturally attuned approaches to skin and hair care within the South Asian context. It's a journey that interweaves traditional practices with modern dermatological insights, reflecting the community's holistic view of wellness. During her interview with Asian Voice, Dr Natasha Verma, BDS, MJDF RCS (Eng), MFDS, MSc AesthMed (Hons), and Medical Director of Skin NV, addressed various aspects, including the importance of a balanced diet for their health, the role of genetic factors, and personalisation in skin and haircare.
Nourishing diet and proper lifestyle is key for good skin and hair health
Talking about the diet plan for skin, she said, “A prevalent issue in South Asian communities is the rich diet, often high in sugar and fat. This diet, featuring treats like Pakode, Samosa, and Parathe, has been linked to various health issues, including skin conditions like acne. Additionally, the use of ghee or clarified butter, which is high in saturated fats, can also trigger acne. There are a few clinical studies that have shown that South Asians have a lower level of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose in milk, with a notable difference between North and South Indians.”
“Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for overall health, especially for the skin and hair. Incorporating a variety of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds into your diet is crucial. It's not just about what you eat but also how you prepare it. Proper cooking methods are vital; for instance, overcooking or frying vegetables can deplete their nutritional value. Instead, including steamed vegetables or fresh salads can be beneficial. These foods are rich in fibre, vitamin C, and vitamin E, all vital nutrients for maintaining healthy skin,” she added.
About the importance of hair care and lifestyle, she said, “Treating your hair also means caring for the scalp and skin. The skin on the scalp is the same as the skin on the face, with the primary difference being the type of hair follicles present. This similarity means that the scalp requires the same level of care with vitamins, antioxidants, fatty acids, and oils, just like facial skin.”
“Additionally, lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress, and exercise profoundly impact skin health. Lack of sleep, however, leads to issues like dark circles and dull, tired-looking skin, as the skin doesn’t get the chance to rejuvenate properly, while stress can lead to dull, tired-looking skin and hair loss. Practices like meditation and exercise, when moderate, support good blood flow and overall skin health. However, extreme exercise coupled with specific diets can lead to thinner facial skin and reduced skin vitality due to nutritional imbalances, “she said.
Understanding genetic influence and misconceptions
Speaking about genetics influencing various dermatological conditions,she said, “Inherited hair loss patterns are often seen through the maternal lineage. Identifying this predisposition enables early intervention strategies, like specific hair care routines post-18, which can maintain better hair health than relatives might have had.
“Similarly, a family history of dark circles indicates potential skin health concerns. Early preventive measures, including eye creams, adequate sleep, hydration, and a healthy diet, can help manage their severity, even if genetics still play a role. Observing familial patterns provides insights, allowing early intervention through tailored treatments to align better with genetic potential. While some conditions, like balding, might lean towards the maternal side, others, such as acne, reactions, and ageing, can stem from either side. Seeking specialist advice upon noticing familial trends is crucial in managing and potentially preventing these dermatological conditions,” she added.
Speaking about misconceptions in Asian skin and hair care, she said, “Acne isn't solely due to poor face washing; it's an inflammatory condition needing gentle care, not aggressive cleansing. Homemade face and hair masks, while popular, offer temporary benefits and might not suit individual needs. Opting for clinically proven products with active ingredients is more advantageous in the long term. Concerning hair care, the traditional practice of oiling needs a more nuanced approach. Excessive oil and aggressive massaging can be harmful. A small amount of warmed oil gently massaged into the scalp promotes nourishment without clogging pores or causing hair issues.
Embracing personalisation for skin and hair care
Devising a personalised skincare and haircare plan, she said, “Several factors are considered such as genetic makeup, lifestyle, diet etc. Tailoring each plan acknowledges that even within a family, individual needs differ significantly.”
“Treating multiple family members illustrates the necessity for distinct plans despite a shared environment. Personalisation is key because everyone's body communicates issues uniquely, requiring a tailored approach to manage symptoms effectively.
She added, “During consultations, I delve into detailed questions to thoroughly understand the patient's skin or hair issues, including their onset, progression, past treatments, current products, and habits affecting the problem. This information forms the foundation for a personalised solution that targets specific concerns using tailored active ingredients and products.”