The Natural Way

Lopamudra Mitra singer I often use a face pack made of sandalwood powder, besan (gram flour), a little honey and rose water. This rejuvenates my skin and also reduces oiliness. In winter, I leave out the besan and add some olive oil instead. Since I have under-eye circles, I place slices of potato or papaya over my eyes at times. I also sometimes use mashed ripe papaya as a face pack and hair conditioner — rinsing it off my hair with a shampoo later.

I am 27 years old. I love fruits. So much so that it’s not enough for me to just eat them I want to use them in my beauty routine too. So, please tell me what fruits I can use for skincare. I have combination skin, and whiteheads on my nose. Also, my skin is sensitive.

Amina

It is great to know that you enjoy fruits. For your type of skin, freeze watermelon peels and whenever you are returning from the scorching sun massage these peels onto your skin. Not only will they soothe your skin but also provide you with natural AHAs. Mash some plums and peaches and mix with honey and a few drops of lime juice. Massage onto skin and leave on for 10 minutes. Wash off with ice cold water and pat dry. If you follow this routine twice a week you will see your skin glow naturally.

I am 40. Is there any way to prevent nails from becoming brittle? I often end up breaking my nicely manicured nails for apparently no reason at all.

Seema

Avoid getting nails filed in a pointed shape. It is better to have either square or oval nails and keep the base broad. Massage your hands and fingers with glycerine daily. Also, have a teaspoon of gelatine with half a glass of water three times a week for two weeks.