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Published on 15 June 2013
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Beauty guru
Cosmetologist Dr Dinyar Workingboxwalla, 63, has been on the speed dial of scores of Indian celebrities for as many as 40 years now. His little black book is choc-a-bloc with starry names including former model Mehr Jesia, actress Lara Dutta and socialite Queenie Singh. His Bandra clinic in Mumbai is a hub, frequented by glamorous women who call on him for skin and hair corrections.
Four decades in the business of beauty has culminated in his first book, Beauty Unleashed: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Perfect Skin, which was launched last week. The book (Westland Rs 295) should appeal to those who are dogged by skin problems and don't know who to ask. For, it takes one through the paces of the best ways to take care of your skin and what to look for in skin and hair care products.
In his book he gives tips on how you can go the natural way to keep the skin looking young and offers simple massaging techniques for a glowing skin. He tells you how your kitchen can be an excellent source of ingredients for rich face masks. The book's extensive FAQ section includes a whole lot of queries — and their answers — related to chemical treatments, sun protection, diets and more.
Workingboxwalla should know, as has several degrees in cosmetology from reputed institutes across the world under his belt. Way back in the '70s he'd done a two-and-a-half year course in naturopathy from the Wilfred Academy of Cosmetology in the US.
He keeps his advice to his celebrity clients simple: 'Just take good care of your skin and hair.' The doctor is now working on a sequel to Beauty Unleashed...
In an interview, Workingboxwalla offers tips on skincare...
Q: What was it that prompted you to author a book?
DW: I decided to write a book not only because I wanted women to know about how beauty products worked on the skin and hair, but also because I wanted to widen my own knowledge. I could do so while researching the subject for my book. My aim was also to come up with in-depth solutions for skin problems.
Q: What according to you are the real secrets of skincare?
DW: I believe in holistic skincare and for that you need to take care of your 'inner' health. Just eating nutritious food is not enough and one must remember to take vitamin supplements on a daily basis. Hydrating the skin is also very important for which one must consume three litres of water a day. A daily regimen of cleansing, toning and moisturising the skin is imperative.
Q: Can you suggest a quick-fix way to deal with ageing skin?
DW: I don't believe in quick-fixes because I feel that one must follow a regular beauty regimen. Besides, regular hydration and moisturising are the best ways to achieve glowing skin. Also, I always recommend that night cream be applied before going to bed.
Q: Do you believe in anti-ageing creams?
DW: Nothing can reverse the clock but at best, ageing can only be slowed down. And it's the overall improvement in your health that can help slow down the process of ageing. It's important to take proper care of the skin and hair because I believe that 20 per cent of damage control lies in your own hands.
Also, while buying cosmetics, one should not be fooled by the smart packaging and end up purchasing wrong products, which are unsuitable for one's skin type. A good quality sun-protection cream must be applied before stepping out because the skin is constantly being exposed to harsh conditions. So, in order to look good, start taking care of yourselves from now.
