Well, friends, summer's here and so does a TON of skin problems. Starting with hyperpigmentation, blemishes, prickly heat, acne, blackheads, whiteheads and whatnot?

Skin is the largest organ in our body. It weighs approximately 8 pounds and has a surface area of  22 square feet. So, skin is also known as the First Line of Defence. Often the skin is least cared for by us. Today, we are living in a very polluted environment. We don't have enough fresh air to breathe, leave alone the skin. The rising use of synthetic cosmetics, irregular food, wayward lifestyles, stress, and polluted water all add up to problems for the skin. According to research by the American Academy of Dermatological Association states, it is estimated that one in every four Americans has some or the other form of skin problem. 

In India also, aesthetic and skin clinics are mushrooming in every city. Everybody wants that soft, supple, younger-looking skin nowadays. Recently, I had the privilege to visit my dear friend's clinic who happens to be a dermatologist. I could see a very long queue of patients waiting to see him with various skin issues like psoriasis, acne, hyperpigmentation, allergies, and the list goes on. His practice is very successful. In a candid talk, he told me that primarily the patients don't have a good diet and lifestyle. Harsh chemicals in washing liquids, soaps, washing detergents and scrubs can have very damaging skin lesions including cancer. He mentioned that since we have a darker skin tone, we are still better than the 'whites' in having lower incidences of skin cancer.

The average money spent by every patient is close to Rs. 4000 - 5000 per visit. Leave alone treatments like laser microabrasion of skin, cleansing, lightening of skin colour, beauty parlour expenses etc. that are much more expensive by virtue.

On my way back home, I was thinking to myself about how much nature has given to us. We have been bestowed with the "BEST PHARMACY" in the world, that is NATURE. And we don't even care about it. We just "DON'T GIVE A DAMN"

So, here are my favourite 6 powerful herbal tips that will make your skin youthful, beautiful, and supple.

 1. Moringa: Moringa oil and serum are full of Vit A, C, and E which makes it young and also reduces scars and acne. Moringa serum is loaded with 3 Omega fatty acids namely 3, 6 and 9. It also blocks ultraviolet-B rays and prevents tanning of the skin.

2. Turmeric: Turmeric is a golden herb that has more uses than any. It has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic action. So, it will shoo away harmful germs. It imparts a golden tinge to the skin making skin brighter.

3. Aloe vera: The gel of Aloe vera is cooling, and revitalizing, and is a potent moisturizer. It heals scars and cleanses the skin of germs. It is excellent for acne.

 4. Coconut oil: Coconut is nature’s gift to mankind. Vital minerals, micronutrients and essential oils are extremely good for the skin. It is hypoallergenic and suits all skin types. It has antimicrobial, moisturizing and self-healing properties.

5. Green Tea: Green tea is rich in vital minerals and nutrients. The antioxidant property of tea is world-renowned. It soothes the skin and natural tannin and flavonoids act as an astringent that cleanses the skin's pores.

6. Water: Aqua pura or pure water is often nature's panacea for all maladies. Fresh potable water, which has natural minerals in it is the magic potion that one needs. Our bodies are 70% water and we often forget to drink water. So, how much water is sufficient for an individual? Well, it is all based on body weight. A small measure is that we should consume 3 ml of water per kg of our body weight per hour. So, if a person is 50 kg in weight, he/she should drink 3 ml X 50 kg = 150 ml of water per hour. It is to be multiplied by the number of working hours, say if one works for 10 hours, it would be 3 ml X 50 kg X 10 hours = 1500 ml of water per day. This rule is to be followed despite sitting in an airconditioned environment as well. 

So, it is evident that nature holds the key to good skin health. The above are some of many wonderful herbs that are just right for our skin. We need to live and work with nature and let our bodies be healed by mother nature. Nonetheless, a word of caution for all. for serious skin issues, it is advisable to seek prompt medical intervention.