My ten-year-old daughter is healthy and her weight is normal as per her height. For the past six months, I have noticed blackheads and small acne-type spots on her face, especially on her nose and forehead. I am afraid they may leave behind scars face. Please advise.
Sharada, via email
Children in the pre-teen years (ages nine to 12) can start to experience acne as the body prepares for puberty. Sebaceous glands become active, stimulated by the sex hormones. This may lead to clogging of the skin's pores, giving rise to the characteristic whiteheads and blackheads.
While the wrong diet (too much chocolate and oily foods) are blamed for causing acne, the condition can develop due to vitamin/mineral deficiencies as well. Your daughter should wash her skin two to three times a day, especially after exercise and before she goes to bed. Use a mild soap but avoid harsh, high-concentration alcohol products. Exfoliate using a formula that contains products with small, smooth grains rather than ones with almond or apricot shell fragments as they can damage your skin, worsening the condition.
Take 1 tablespoon besan (chickpea flour) and half a tablespoon of turmeric powder. Add enough water to make a thick paste and apply this to her face. Rinse off after about five minutes. Do this on alternate days.
She can also take Nimbadi kashayam* on the prescription of a doctor. She should wash her face with a paste of Thriphala* and use a papaya face pack once a week.
I am a 15-year-old with dry skin, especially on my upper arms and forehead. Face washes tend to work, but only for a few hours, after which my face becomes dry again.
L.H., via email
Most skin dryness is caused by environmental exposure, such as hot and dry weather, air conditioning, humidity, hot showers, harsh soaps and central heating. Even in winter, falling temperatures can dehydrate the skin and may cause some peeling. Excessive sun exposure also causes the top layer of the skin to peel. Some of the more serious causes include eczema, psoriasis, thyroid disorders and allergies. Consult an Ayurveda doctor to rule out any of these problems.
Drink a lot of water daily. Take a cool shower; use a mild soap; always wear sunscreen during the day. Sticking to a diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins A, B and C can improve your skin. Protein-rich foods include meat (not fried), fish, nuts, and dairy products. You can get your iron from beans, peas and cereals. Lots of citrus fruit and vegetables will help you get your daily intake of Vitamins A, B, and C.
Apply dinesavalyadi kuzhampu* regularly before showering.
*Available at shops selling herbal products
