Skin Care Resolutions for 2025: Sustainable Beauty Routines to Start Now

 

Think about the products on your shelf. How many of them are in line with your ethical values? Lately, the beauty industry has been seeing a shift from momentary trends to meaningful, sustainable choices. Skincare today is more about respecting the environment while nurturing long-term health. With climate concerns and ethical considerations gaining traction, adopting sustainable beauty routines, treatments, and products has become both a personal and collective responsibility.

As we set our goals for the coming year, it’s time to rethink our approach to skincare.

Here’s how we can make sustainable beauty a core part of our lifestyle in 2025.

Sustainability starts at the ingredient level. More brands are turning to plant-based and responsibly sourced actives like bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative, and marine algae, known for its hydrating properties. These ingredients reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals and support biodiversity. Also, animal testing and animal-derived ingredients are increasingly being replaced by innovative, cruelty-free alternatives. Vegan formulations are often kinder to the planet and free from ingredients that could cause allergies or irritation.

With water scarcity becoming a global concern, waterless beauty is gaining momentum. Solid cleansers, powdered masks, and concentrated serums offer effective solutions without relying on water as a primary ingredient. This not only conserves water during production but also extends product shelf life. Additionally, mineral-based sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are safer for marine ecosystems and provide broad-spectrum protection.

“Skinimalism" continues to grow as consumers focus on fewer, high-quality products. Multi-functional items like tinted moisturizers with SPF or serums that hydrate and brighten reduce the need for excessive packaging and simplify routines. Speaking of packaging, waste is one of the most significant challenges in the beauty industry. Refillable systems, compostable materials, and recyclable options are becoming standard for brands committed to sustainability. Glass containers and metal tubes are excellent alternatives to single-use plastics.

Technology is paving the way for sustainable skincare innovations. Dr Shreya Pagariya Golchha, Dermatologist, Aesthetic physician and Hair transplant Surgeon, says “Treatments like bio remodeling stand out for their minimal impact on the environment while providing exceptional benefits. Profhilo, a bio remodeling procedure, is a next-generation anti-aging treatment that uses ultrapure hyaluronic acid. The injectable hydrates the skin deeply, stimulates collagen production, and improves elasticity. Its appeal lies in its efficiency—fewer syringes mean less material waste—and the biodegradable nature of hyaluronic acid ensures minimal environmental impact."

Echoing the sentiments, Dr Anshul Jain, MD (Gold Medalist), MBBS, Senior Dermatologist and Aesthetic Dermatosurgeon adds, “Hydrostretch therapy is another popular option, marketed under Viscoderm Hydrobooster, utilizes stabilized hyaluronic acid to intensely hydrate the skin, smooth fine lines, and restore elasticity. Unlike more invasive procedures, this treatment offers quick results with no downtime. The formulations are bio-compatible, and the procedure minimizes disposable material use, aligning it with sustainable dermatological practices."

AI-driven ingredient selection reduces waste during development. Some brands use blockchain to provide transparent ingredient tracking, helping consumers make informed decisions.

Lastly, small changes in your beauty habits can make a big difference. Turn off the tap while cleansing your face. Avoid overconsumption as impulsive buying can lead to waste. Many skincare products expire before they are fully used. Instead, focus on using up what you have before purchasing new items. Be mindful about energy consumption. From hair dryers to beauty devices, energy usage in your beauty routine can add up. Choosing energy-efficient tools or reducing their use can lower your carbon footprint.

Adrenaline, Cortisol And Heart: Stress Hormones Redefining Cardiac Events

When the human body encounters stress—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—it responds by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, often referred to as “stress hormones." These hormones form part of our natural defense mechanism, designed to help us react swiftly in threatening situations through the classic “fight or flight" response. Adrenaline boosts heart rate and blood pressure, while cortisol elevates blood sugar levels and suppresses non-essential bodily functions to prioritize immediate survival. Dr. C. Raghu, Clinical Director & Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad shares all you need to know:

However, when stress becomes chronic, this constant hormonal surge can take a serious toll on heart health. Persistently high cortisol levels can lead to hypertension, elevated blood sugar, and changes in lipid metabolism, all of which contribute to atherosclerosis—the gradual buildup of plaque inside the arteries that restricts blood flow. Chronic exposure to adrenaline can also cause arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, placing additional strain on the heart muscle and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Beyond physiological effects, chronic stress often drives unhealthy behaviours such as smoking, poor diet, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity—all of which further heighten the risk of heart disease. The way individuals respond to stress can vary greatly depending on genetic predisposition and past experiences; for instance, those with a history of trauma or high-stress occupations may exhibit a heightened hormonal response even to everyday stressors, amplifying their cardiac risk.

mportantly, symptoms like chest discomfort, a racing heartbeat, or shortness of breath—especially when new or persistent—should never be brushed off as “just stress." They warrant prompt medical evaluation to rule out or address potential heart issues. In clinical practice, it’s common to encounter patients without previous cardiac history presenting with stress-induced symptoms that closely mimic heart disease.

Managing chronic stress is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of protecting heart health. While stress hormones may not be as visible a risk factor as smoking or hypertension, their impact is profound. Incorporating regular exercise, mindfulness practices, sufficient sleep, and seeking timely medical care can make a significant difference in safeguarding the heart.

World Liver Day 2025: Theme, History, Significance And Tips For A Healthy Liver

 World Liver Day 2025: World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19. It aims to raise global awareness about liver-related diseases and promote better liver health. As the second largest organ in the human body, the liver plays a key role in various essential functions. It helps metabolism, digestion, filtration of toxins, immunity regulation, and nutrient storage.

Remarkably, the liver has the ability to regenerate itself even after sustaining significant damage. However, any dysfunction in this crucial organ can lead to severe health complications.

World Liver Day History

World Liver Day was established in 2010 by the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL). The date, April 19, was chosen to honour EASL’s founding in 1966.

World Liver Day Significance

This global health initiative emphasises the need for greater awareness about liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver cancer—many of which remain underdiagnosed.

The day promotes preventive measures like vaccination, balanced nutrition, and safe hygiene practices. It also stresses the importance of early screening, which can significantly improve health outcomes.

Beyond prevention and awareness, the day extends support to those living with liver conditions. It works to eliminate stigma, and advocates for better access to treatment and healthcare policies.

Ultimately, it encourages communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to prioritise liver health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being.

Tips For Maintaining Liver Health

1. Follow a balanced diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reduce the intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats, which can contribute to fatty liver disease and other complications.
2. Stay hydrated: Drinking sufficient water daily supports the liver’s natural detoxification process and helps it function efficiently.
3. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can severely damage liver cells and lead to conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. It’s essential to consume alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether.
4. Limit or avoid smoking: Smoking introduces harmful toxins into the body that can negatively affect liver function and increase the risk of liver cancer. Reducing or quitting smoking significantly contributes to better overall liver health.
5. Get vaccinated against hepatitis: Vaccines for hepatitis A and B are important preventive measures. They protect against viral infections that can cause chronic liver disease or liver failure.
6. Engage in regular physical activity: Routine exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces fat accumulation in the liver. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
7. Use medications responsibly: Avoid the overuse of over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal remedies without medical guidance, as they can cause liver toxicity. Always follow prescribed dosages and consult your doctor, if unsure.
8. Schedule regular health check-ups: Routine medical examinations, including liver function tests, can help detect potential liver issues early, leading to timely intervention and treatment.

World Liver Day 2025 Theme Explained

The theme for World Liver Day 2025 is “Food is Medicine." It highlights the essential role that nutrition plays in preserving liver health. It draws attention to how a balanced, whole-food-based diet can support overall liver function. The theme also stresses that mindful eating habits can help reduce the risk of metabolic complications.

Drinking Water From Plastic Bottles Left In Car During Summer Is Harmful, Here’s Why

Leaving a water bottle in the car is nothing new to any of us. How horrible can it be, after all, since it is just water? However, things begin to change when that bottle is exposed to heat, particularly in the summer. If the bottle isn’t BPA-free, the chemicals from the plastic may seep into the water due to the rising temperature. Even the quality and taste of the water might change over time. Perhaps it’s not as safe as you believe.

It is important to note that BPA-free labelling indicates a product is free from Bisphenol-A, a chemical potentially linked to various health concerns.

Here are some reasons why it might not be the best idea to drink water that has been left in a hot vehicle.

According to research that was published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, drinking water from a plastic bottle that has been exposed to heat for an extended period of time may cause dangerous compounds to be released.

Trillions of nanoparticles per litre are released into the water when plastic objects come into contact with hot water, according to another study published in Environmental Science and Technology. These substances can seriously harm one’s health and disrupt hormonal balance if used in excess.

Another problem is the spread of bacteria. Your saliva puts bacteria into the bottle if you have previously taken a sip. A warm environment encourages the growth of bacteria, making the bottle a haven for germs.

Digestion problems and stomach pain could result from drinking water from such a bottle. Although drinking such water once might not have any negative effects right away, doing so on a frequent basis could have long-term health consequences.

Now that we are aware that it is not advisable to consume bottled water that has been left in a hot car, let’s take a look at some strategies for maintaining adequate hydration throughout the day.

1. Avoid Waiting Until You’re Thirsty

When you experience thirst, you are already dehydrated. Develop the practice of drinking water regularly rather than waiting for that signal. Drinking half a glass of water every half an hour is a smart way to keep hydrated all day.

2. Keep An Insulated Bottle With You

Get a stainless steel or insulated water bottle instead of a plastic one. Even in hot weather, this will keep your water safe and cool.

3. Eat Foods High In Water

Drinking water is not the only way to stay hydrated. Including items high in water in your diet is another way to keep hydrated. Eat watermelon, cucumber, oranges, strawberries, and other fruits and vegetables to stay hydrated, acquire vital vitamins and minerals.

4. Add Something New To Your Water To Make It Refreshing

Try adding natural things to your water instead of just drinking it straight. To improve the flavour, add berries, cucumber, mint, or lemon. This not only makes drinking water more pleasurable but also motivates you to consume more of it.

Struggling With Dark Or Cracked Lips? Here's What It Reveals About Your Health

Every disease in the world is identified in different ways. Some require medical tests for diagnosis, while others can be detected by examining the tongue, pulse, or eyes. But did you know that your lips can also indicate underlying health issues? Yes, the condition and colour of your lips can provide valuable insights into your overall well-being.

Dietitian Khushboo Sharma from Diet for Delight Clinic, Noida, shares insights about what health issues lips can indicate, what causes chapped or dry lips, which vitamin deficiencies lead to lip problems, and what foods can help.

According to Sharma, many people rely on expensive medicines to treat lip-related problems, but these treatments can sometimes cause side effects. Instead, natural remedies and dietary changes can be more effective. She further explains a few lip problems and their easy solutions:

Dry Lips: According to expert, dry lips indicate dehydration. If your lips are constantly dry, increase your water intake to keep your body hydrated.

Cracked Lips: If your lips are cracking frequently, it may be due to an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency. To combat this, include walnuts in your diet.

Side Cracks in Lips: Cracks appearing at the corners of the mouth could signal a vitamin B2 deficiency. In such cases, consuming mushrooms can be beneficial.

Pale Lips: If your lips have lost their natural colour and appear pale, it might be a sign of iron deficiency. To restore iron levels, add spinach to your diet.

Dark Lips: Many people experience darkening of the lips, which could be due to excess melanin production. If you notice this, consuming amla (Indian gooseberry) may help regulate melanin levels.

Say Goodbye To Yellow Teeth With These Easy Home Remedies

 Nowadays, dietary habits and changing lifestyles contribute to various bodily effects, including the yellowing of teeth. Teeth are crucial not only for eating and drinking but also for enhancing our personality. Clean, bright teeth boost confidence. While numerous toothpastes and dental products flood the market, natural remedies offer highly effective alternatives. Here are a few natural remedies you can use at home to whiten your teeth.

Natural Remedies To Whiten Teeth:

White vinegar acts as an excellent natural cleanser, effectively removing dirt from teeth. Mix one teaspoon of white vinegar into half a glass of water and use this solution to rinse daily. Within days, the yellowing of teeth will begin to diminish.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain natural acids that enhance the shine of teeth. Mash a few strawberries and add a small amount of baking soda. Apply this paste to your teeth with a brush, rubbing gently. Use this remedy two to three times a week.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil possesses antibacterial properties that help maintain white, healthy teeth. Every morning, on an empty stomach, swirl one teaspoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10–15 minutes. Then, spit it out and rinse with lukewarm water. Visible results can be noticed within a few weeks.

Arjuna Bark

In Ayurveda, Arjuna bark is considered a natural toothpaste. Dry the bark and grind it into a fine powder. Use this powder daily as a toothpaste. It not only removes yellowing but also strengthens the gums.

Ginger and Rock Salt

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to cleaner teeth. Extract fresh ginger juice and mix in a small amount of rock salt. Rub this mixture gently on your teeth to enhance their shine within a few days.

Mustard Oil and Black Salt

This age-old remedy has been used for centuries in dental care. Mix a small amount of black salt into a teaspoon of mustard oil. Rub this mixture lightly on your teeth using a finger or a brush. Regular use will gradually reduce yellowing.

These simple, effective home remedies offer a cost-effective way to achieve brighter teeth without relying on expensive products.

Boost Your Collagen: Tips To Reduce Wrinkles And Joint Pain

 

Are wrinkles increasing in your skin or are you feeling pain in the joints? The reason for this may be a lack of collagen. Collagen is an essential protein in our body, which gives strength and flexibility to the skin, bones and joints. With ageing, its quantity starts decreasing, due to which the skin becomes loose and the joints start getting weak. However, with the right diet and some important measures, you can overcome the deficiency of collagen. Know the ways to increase collagen, benefits and important tips, which will keep you young and fit for a long time.

What Is collagen?

Collagen is made up of amino acids, which mainly contain proline, glycine and hydroxyproline. The body also needs vitamin C, zinc, copper and manganese to make it. If we talk about its function, it helps in creating new skin cells. It helps in removing dead skin cells, giving flexibility and strength to the skin, strengthening joints and bones, preventing blood clotting and protecting internal organs.

Types Of Collagen

According to Clevelandclinic, 28 types of collagen have been identified so far, of which the main five types are these: The first type, which makes up 90% of the collagen in the body, provides structure to the skin, bones, tendons and ligaments. The second type is found in elastic cartilage, which keeps the joints strong. The third type is found in muscles, arteries and organs, while the fourth type is present in the layers of the skin. The fifth type is found in the cornea of the eyes, hair, some layers of skin and the tissues of the placenta.

Decrease In collagen With Age

As age increases, collagen production in the body starts decreasing. In women, collagen production decreases rapidly after menopause. Its level decreases significantly after the age of 60.

Symptoms Of Collagen Deficiency

• Wrinkles Looseness and dryness in the skin
• Hollowness around the eyes and face
• Muscle weakness and pain
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Digestive system problems
• Obstruction in blood flow

Habits That Damage Collagen

• Smoking reduces collagen production and the skin starts looking old quickly.
• Excessive sugar and processed carbs make collagen weak and brittle.
• Sun rays slow down collagen production, which increases wrinkles.
• Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, damage collagen.

How To Overcome Collagen Deficiency?

Collagen, directly ingested, is not absorbed, but if the nutrients that produce collagen are included in the diet, it can have a positive effect.

Vitamin C: Orange, strawberry, capsicum, broccoli etc.

Proline: Mushroom, cabbage, peanuts, egg white, meat etc.

Glycine: Red meat, chicken, turkey, peanuts, granola etc.

Copper: Oysters, walnuts, green leafy vegetables, dark chocolate etc.

Zinc: Red meat, pulses, nuts, green vegetables, milk products etc.

Are collagen supplements Beneficial?

Some studies have found the possibility of improving skin moisture and elasticity and relieving joint pain with collagen supplements. However, it cannot be controlled where the body will use it.

Other Ways To Increase Collagen

• Apply sunscreen every day.
• Avoid smoking and eating too much sweets.
• Eat a balanced diet, which contains proteins, vitamins and minerals.
• Do yoga and exercise, which increases blood circulation.