LET THE EXPERTS DECIDE

They do offer some remarkable results in skincare, especially in the area of aesthetic dermatology and repair of severely damaged skin. They can come to the rescue when conventional OTC and natural or organic-based solutions fail

— VANDANA LUTHRA, entrepreneur

and the founder of VLCC Health Care Ltd

Even Vandana Luthra, entrepreneur and the founder of VLCC Health Care Ltd, a beauty and wellness conglomerate, reiterates that it’s not entirely fair to call chemicals in skincare products ‘bad’. “They do offer some remarkable results in skincare, especially in the area of aesthetic dermatology and repair of severely damaged skin. They can come to the rescue when conventional OTC and natural or organic-based solutions fail,” she adds.

Concentrations and mixes of various acids in chemical peels are beneficial in reducing acne, scar, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.

“Cosmetics having actives like ‘Diamond Lite 60’, are also chemical-based molecules, using a Nobel Prize-discovery as an active,” adds the VLCC founder. “It unleashes exceptional brightening powers on skin, through three multiskin layers to prevent and correct yellowish, dull and uneven skin tones.”

However, even Vandana Luthra insists that for skincare, moderation should be the mantra. “Read the labels on the back of your products to understand the ingredients used in the product. Do not decide for yourself; instead, let a dermatologist, a trained beautician or an aesthetic doctor decide,” she warns.

Ingredients such as parabens, formaldehyde, phthalate, carbon black and phenoxyethanol — which are unfortunately found in some cosmetic products today — have been linked (though not substantively confirmed) to some fairly serious health concerns such as cancer, hormonal imbalances (endocrine disruptors) and respiratory issues, among others.