To get rid of black patches

After 30 years of age, our skin requires special care and attention for its maintenance since after 30, the skin starts losing its luster and tends to become dry. So, to preserve the oily texture of the skin, we’ve to take special care. We can preserve our looks using things available in nature. Our blooming appearance will give us self-confidence. If we are lively, we can create a lively atmosphere around us. We should never hesitate to ensure that we always look good and fresh, says Lakshmi Manohar, proprietress of Vikashini beauty center. She answers the queries of our readers:

Q: I am a housewife. I’ve no time to relax due to load of work. My palms have become rough because of this reason. Please suggest what should I do to make them soft?(Mala Ramanathan, Trichy)

A: The detergent that you use might be a reason for your rough palms. If you’ve cracks, you can wear gloves while doing the chores. You can use creams meant for palms. Add two drops of almond oil to lukewarm water and keep your hands immersed in it for 15 minutes. Repeat this practice. This will restore the softness in course of time. Avoid sweets and hard-to- digest food; eat lot of fruits and green vegetables. Fiber-rich food is very good. You can apply good quality body lotion after bath as well as before going to bed.

Q: I am not able to wear low-neck blouses because of the dark patches on my back. I am 35 years old. How to remove them?(Vijaya Chandrasekhar, Nerkundram)

A: Only a dermatologist can decide the treatment for your problem. Also, you should find out whether the problem is related to the skin or due to some allergy. Some people develop allergy because of the jewelry they wear. You should ensure that right from your soap, all beauty aids that you use are of good quality. Apart from beauty treatment, a dermatologist should be consulted.

Q: I am not able to understand the difference between body lotion and moisturizer. Please explain …(Malar, Tambaram)

A:Body lotion is a lighter combination than moisturizer. Anybody can use this. Moisturizer is good for dry and sensitive skin.

Q: I am a 22 year old college student. I am using luffa. Will this have side effects?(Manisankari, Tirunelveli)

A:Luffa is a sponge used for bathing. It should be used only once in ten days and not daily. Those with dry and sensitive skin should never use it.

Q: I am 24 years old. I am working as a receptionist. Can I use face scrub to make my face shiny?(Vinaya Jegdeesh, Perambur)

A:Face scrub can be used to clean the skin and the pores. It will remove dead cells and black spots and render the face shiny. You can apply a paste of almond mixed with milk or rose water on the face. Once in a week, you should apply the mixture on the face and massage in upward circles. Then wash in cold water. Your face will look incredibly beautiful.

Q: My skin is oily and of medium complexion. Can I use the white part of the egg? My age is 30 years.(Sivakami Srinivasan, Chengalpattu)

A:The white part of the egg is best suited for oily skin. You can use this daily. Or apply a mixture of honey and lemon juice on the face and neck, leave it for 5 minutes and then wash in cold water. Curd, lemon juice and oats can be added to the white part of the egg and applied on the face. You’ll get a glossy skin.