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4 signs it’s finally time to try therapy with your family

Even the closest of families can be a little dysfunctional, and if you’ve ever been in therapy, you’ve probably complained about yours during a one-on-one session. But what if you could hash out your issues as a group—with your parents, siblings, in-laws, kids, whoever—all in the same room?

That’s essentially what family therapy, or bringing everyone into the same session, is about. “The goal is to shift the entire system, not just one person’s behaviour,” says Dorin Roth, a psychologist who works with couples and families at Therapists of New York. In practice, therapy with your family involves having a neutral third party observe how everyone interacts in order to reduce misunderstandings, conflicts and ideally, your stress. “We’re not focusing on fixing someone but rather reshaping the relationship as a whole,” Dr. Roth says.

So how do you know if it’s time for a professional intervention? Here are a few signs.

1. You’re having the same fight, over and over

No matter how many times you think you’ve resolved it, the exact same argument keeps resurfacing—whether it’s about finances, your romantic relationship or drama from years ago. If solving it on your own hasn’t worked, then having a licensed expert guide the conversation may make it easier for everyone to see the problem from a new perspective. “When we tell someone what’s happening, it’s only our version of the story,” says Erin Runt, a Chicago-based licensed therapist. “We’re always like, ‘Well, this is what I did, but it’s because the other person is just being this way!” However, therapy with your family provides a more neutral space where all parties can share their experience and feel supported while doing so.

2. You feel misunderstood every time you try communicating

When no one is truly hearing each other, it’s easy for tension to rise and for conversations to become counterproductive. And that’s where sitting down together (with a moderator in the room) can help. Even if you’ve mastered healthy communication skills (like using “I” statements to get your points across), Dr. Roth says there’s still no guarantee that your parent, sibling or other family member will interpret your message as intended. A therapist can observe how you’re talking to each other in real time and step in the moment someone interrupts, becomes defensive or makes assumptions—patterns that can be difficult to recognise or change without an unbiased party present.

3. You need help navigating a major life transition

Whether it’s a divorce, the death of a loved one or a major cross-country move, life changes that impact the entire household can be difficult to navigate. “When families are struggling to work through those events, then that can be a great opportunity to consider therapy,” Runt says. Beyond helping everyone develop coping strategies, it’s also a chance to support each other and build a sense of togetherness during tough times.

4. You experience pushback after setting boundaries

Setting boundaries—or even just asking for a little space—is easier said than done, especially if your family doesn’t respect them. Maybe they dismiss your needs as “dramatic,” or guilt-trip you for refusing to come home for both Thanksgiving and Christmas.

When every attempt to put yourself first turns into conflict or hurt feelings, Runt says a therapist can guide the conversation and help you clearly express your needs (and make sure they’re actually heard)—while also unpacking what’s behind the other person’s pushback. Maybe they feel that your “no” is a personal rejection rather than a preference. Or perhaps toxic habits, like needing to control or dominate decisions, are getting in the way.


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Three South Asian creative directors on being brown women in a male-dominated field

Kajal Patel: I always joke that I came out of the womb wanting to be a director. My grandfather spoke to me of filmmaking when I watched Bollywood movies as a kid, but being from a lower middle class immigrant family in New York, I didn’t have the funds to go to film school. At 22, I found myself as a junior director-producer at the media company Complex, determined to put my hand in every jar. Somehow, I became the director for a documentary on Billie Eilish right before she blew up. I went to her hometown and the interview happened in her childhood ­ bedroom. She was younger then; there was an innocence to her that was beautiful to experience.

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Fáiz Akindojuromi spotted behind the scenes while shooting British rapper Central Cee’s album, Can’t Rush Greatness (SYNA edition).

Fáiz Akindojuromi: I started working at the London-based streetwear brand Places+Faces in 2017 when it was reaching its peak. We were travelling around the world doing parties and pop-ups, shoots with music artists; I was also the editor for their magazine. Being the only brown girl—or girl for that matter—in a small team definitely felt like a high-pressure situation.

Kajal Patel: The president of Megan Thee Stallion’s label sat me down and said, “There’s something that Megan has just gone through, and we would love to have you direct these films as she talks about her experience.” My relationship with Megan began at a very vulnerable time in her life and I showed up with the intention of not just wanting to create but also to care. I think that’s what bonded us as we worked for months on the script, which became ‘Protecting Women of Colour’, the video for her New York Times essay titled ‘Why I Speak Up for Black Women’. She called me her friend. From then on, I was with her for commercials and music, in her home or trailer, talking things through.


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The key Spring/Summer 2026 bag trends to know now

The influx of designer debuts at several major houses this season brought a number of spring/summer 2026 bag trends to the fore. “I was interested in that kind of aspect of time and something you cherish,” Matthieu Blazy said of his new takes on Chanel’s iconic 2.55 bags – which were reinforced with wire so that they could be manipulated, giving a warped and aged effect – that he revealed at his debut.

Dabbling in the accessory archives was, by no surprise, a common theme for newcomers: at Balenciaga, Pierpaolo Piccioli updated the Le City bag; Jonathan Anderson updated the Lady Dior, and Michael Rider brought back Phoebe Philo’s Phantom bag at Celine, complete with curved zips that leant into its “smiley face bag” nickname.

Anderson’s Lady Dior – and the angular top handles he included in his inaugural collection for the house – was one of many new “ladylike” bags to take to the runways. Defined for their slight silhouettes, which riff on 1940s and ’50s purses, with top handles and understated hardware, these styles put a fresh spin on the trad handbag.

Chain-handled silhouettes were another key spring/summer 2026 bag trend to emerge at the shows, seen at Chloé, Ferragamo, Stella McCartney, Valentino, Givenchy and Chanel (the maison is, of course, synonymous with chains, which were also woven into the hemlines of shirts made in collaboration with Charvet.)

Here, Vogue brings a taster of the key spring/summer 2026 bag trends – to be updated when the new collections arrive in stores.

Fresh takes on archive classics

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Chanel, Celine, Balenciaga (middle), Dior, Fendi

Creative directors often head to the archives upon their appointment at a new house to ideate new design codes that will mark their tenure, yet there can be a reluctance to mess with the classics too much. Matthieu Blazy’s reinvigorated 2.55 Chanel flap bag retained the iconic quilting and chain handle, but was given new life with structural wire to make it look as if it were frozen in time. At Balenciaga, Pierpaolo Piccioli delivered new Le City bags; at Celine, Michael Rider reintroduced the brand’s famed Phantom, beloved by It-girls in the Noughties, while Jonathan Anderson added contemporary edge to the historic Lady Dior. As the saying goes: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

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₹2,27,000

Balenciaga – Le city small textured leather tote

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₹3,30,000

Fendi – Vintage yellow sunset beaded baguette bag

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₹3,25,000

Dior – Lady d-joy micro bag

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₹3,55,000

Celine – Medium smiling new luggage bag

New “ladylike”

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Toteme, Khaite, Prada (middle), Bottega Veneta, Loewe


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Horoscope Today: December 20, 2025

Cosmic tip: Keep working your magic. Your guides are cheering you on.

Get your hands down to flaunt your skills to the world. Gemini, your love letter from the cosmos is arriving, carrying with it gifts and many blessings. Between solstice and Christmas, expect things to feel charged up. Yes, the vibe around this time of the year hits differently; however, this feeling is not just that. It is indicative of a real-time shift in your life that is occurring. The drums you’ve beaten for so long are finally erupting with passion and fire, and this one is the steady and enduring kind. Fan it well enough, and it will take you in unexpected new directions.

Cosmic tip: Let victimhood and control slide. New chapters beckon.

Lay low, Cancer. Today is not the day to strike off everything on your checklist. Today may actually be perfect for you to power through what is most important to you. Family, celebration, and community are your themes today. And the better rested you are mentally, the more you will have in your heart to offer. You are a strong person, and perhaps there is an element of something constantly moving in circles in your life. Take a step back to simply enjoy yourself today. This downtime is not a luxury; it is a necessity to help you put things back in perspective.

Cosmic tip: Get serious about your community building skills—personally or professionally.

When you align your chakras—your energy and body—a lot begins to align in your life, Leo. This is akin to taking care of your physical body for optimum health and fitness. Now while this may sound too out there, there are simple ways you can do this. Begin your day with a slow stretch, deep breaths, and sunlight. Eat right, move your body, and process your emotions. Ups and downs are undoubtedly a part of life, but they might not be the decisive factor in your game.  When you make presence a part of your life, either through meditation or ways in which you become aware of your physical reality, you automatically regain power over your life.


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Innovative Kurta Jacket Styles for Modern Indian Men

Indian menswear has seen a remarkable evolution over the past decade, moving beyond the predictable silhouettes and traditional ensembles that once dominated festive and wedding fashion. While the classic Bandhgala jacket remains a timeless symbol of sophistication, today’s style-forward men are embracing newer, fresher kurta-jacket combinations that balance heritage with contemporary flair. Whether it’s for weddings, festive gatherings, office celebrations, or upscale evening events, the modern kurta-jacket duo is redefining what it means to dress traditionally yet trendily.

More than just a layering piece, the kurta mens Indian jackets have stepped into the spotlight as a versatile fashion statement for men. Designers are experimenting with experimental fabrics, asymmetrical cuts, bold prints, and fusion styles that effortlessly bring out personality and presence. From minimalist linen jackets for daytime simplicity to heavily embroidered waistcoats perfect for grand celebrations, the options today are virtually endless. This shift not only expands the wardrobe choices for men but also encourages personal styling—giving each man a chance to express himself through subtle details or daring designs.

Asymmetrical Jackets: A Bold Modern Twist

Nothing captures the essence of contemporary ethnic fashion quite like an asymmetrical jacket. With uneven hems, diagonal closures, and experimental folds, these jackets add a creative edge to a simple kurta. Whether in monotone silk or textured jacquard, asymmetrical jackets draw attention and create a striking silhouette without overpowering the rest of the outfit. Pair them with straight-cut kurtas and tapered pants to balance the look with clean lines.

Printed Nehru Jackets for Playful Elegance

Prints have become a major trend across menswear, and Indian Nehru jacket are no exception. Floral motifs, geometric designs, Mughal-inspired prints, and subtle digital artwork can transform a plain kurta into a fashion-forward ensemble. Printed jackets are ideal for haldi, mehendi, or daytime celebrations where the vibe is vibrant and cheerful. For a more refined appeal, choose tone-on-tone prints or pastel shades paired with solid kurtas.

Layered Kurta Jackets for Depth and Dimension

Layering isn’t just for winter—ethnic menswear uses it to create depth, contrast, and structure. Layered kurta jackets often feature dual fabrics, contrasting lapels, or front panel layers that add visual interest without complexity. This style is particularly popular for evening events, where the play of textures and fabrics enhances the overall richness. Opt for fabrics like velvet, raw silk, or brocade for a sophisticated layered look.

Longline Jackets for a Regal Fusion Look

Inspired by sherwanis but shorter than traditional ones, longline jackets offer a royal charm while maintaining comfort. When paired with a kurta, these extended jackets create a tall, elegant silhouette. They work beautifully for weddings or cocktail nights and can be adorned with embroidery, zari work, or subtle thread motifs. Longline jackets in muted tones like charcoal, midnight blue, or wine deliver understated grandeur.

Indo-Western Jackets for Fashion-Forward Men

Indo-Western mens Indian jackets combine the best of both worlds—ethnic detailing with Western tailoring. Think structured shoulders, mandarin collars, metal buttons, and sleek cuts paired with an Indian kurta base. These jackets highlight confidence and modern style, making them ideal for groomsmen or men attending high-profile events. Pair them with a monochrome kurta-pant set and minimalist accessories for maximum impact.

Pastel Linen Jackets for Understated Sophistication

For men who prefer subtlety over extravagance, pastel linen jackets are the perfect choice. Soft hues like mint, peach, powder blue, or sage elevate daytime ethnic dressing. Linen adds breathability, making the ensemble ideal for summer weddings, pujas, or outdoor gatherings. Pairing a linen jacket with a simple white or beige kurta creates a refreshing, cool look that never fails to impress.

Embroidered Waistcoats for Celebratory Occasions

If you want to keep things traditional yet polished, embroidered waistcoats are the way to go. These shorter jackets, often intricately embellished with resham, mirror work, or zari embroidery, instantly uplift a basic kurta set. They’re a staple for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and festive celebrations where the dress code leans towards ornate. For a regal touch, pair them with churidar pants or dhoti-style bottoms.

Quirky Fusion Jackets for the Experimental Dresser

For the man who loves to break fashion norms, quirky fusion jackets are a creative playground. These may include denim jackets styled over kurtas, bomber-style jackets with ethnic prints, or jackets featuring experimental cuts. Perfect for music nights, contemporary weddings, or fashion-centric events, these Indian vest allow men to showcase a distinct personality without compromising cultural elements.

Velvet Jackets for Winter Festivities

Velvet jackets have a luxurious, royal appeal that makes them ideal for winter functions. Rich jewel tones like emerald, ruby, and sapphire create a bold statement, while subtle embroidery adds a refined finish. When paired with a kurta in silk or brocade, velvet jackets elevate the ensemble to premium festive wear. These jackets photograph exceptionally well—perfect for weddings, receptions, and formal galas.

Minimalist Monochrome Jackets for a Clean Aesthetic

Modern fashion often leans toward minimalism, and monochrome jackets embody this philosophy. A jacket and kurta crafted in the same shade create a seamless, elongated silhouette that exudes sophistication. Shades like ivory, charcoal, navy, or taupe offer timeless elegance. Accessorize with a pocket square, brooch, or leather mojris to complete the minimalist aesthetic.

Final Thoughts

Kurta mens Indian jackets have evolved far beyond the classic Bandhgala, offering contemporary men countless ways to express their individuality through ethnic fashion. Whether you prefer bold prints, asymmetrical cuts, regal longline designs, or minimalist pastel tones, there’s a style that perfectly complements every occasion and personality. Modern menswear embraces diversity, creativity, and comfort—and the versatile kurta jacket sits at the heart of this evolution.

For those looking to upgrade their ethnic wardrobe with high-quality, stylish, and innovative kurta jacket ensembles, explore the exquisite collection at Nihal Fashions. From premium fabrics to modern cuts and traditional craftsmanship, we offer a curated range designed for today’s fashion-conscious man. 


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Alia Bhatt leans into rose gold glam and Karisma Kapoor brings kohl-rimmed eyes to this week’s best beauty looks

Whether it was Alia Bhatt’s base that looks like candlelight instead of full coverage, Sreeleela’s blush that melts into matching lipstick or Khushi Kapoor’s liner that’s smoked just enough to elongate the eyes; across red carpets and festive nights out, the mood right now is high-glam. Voluminous blowouts that lift the features, soft-focus shadows in taupe and bronze, and cohesively put together looks dominated the week. If you’ve been itching to update your routine without reinventing it, this week’s looks are your reminder that the best glam often comes down to a few well-placed brushstrokes and elevations.

Sleek, centre-parted lengths set up a clean frame for Alaya F’s brushed-up brows, softly defined eyes with taupe lids, classic winged liner and fluttery lashes. A warm wash of nude-peach on the lips and cheeks ties everything together, emphasising her sharp bone structure.

Mimicking a candlelit glow, Alia Bhatt’s base is dewy but not greasy, with a peach-rose flush that melts into rose-gold shimmer on the lids. The eyes are ringed with diffused kohl and bronze shadow so they look defined rather than heavily lined, while a blurred nude lip keeps the whole face soft and luminous.

A rich, rounded blowout gives Bhumi Pednekkar’s face instant lift, while a precise feline flick and tightlined lashes sharpen the gaze. The skin is softly contoured with subtle highlight on the high points and that cool-toned, ’90s-inspired brown lip is the star of the look in a way that feels confident but not loud.

Khushi Kapoor leans into night-out makeup with a brushed-out blowout and easy movement, paired with a smoked-out liner that elongates the eyes without hiding them. A mix of brown and charcoal shadow hugs the lash line, finished with a caramel nude, lightly glossy lip that feels playful but still polished.

Karisma Kapoor’s makeup is classic and camera-ready. Her complexion is smooth with a soft-focus finish, paired with taupe and mink tones and kohl smoked around the eyes to pull out the cool grey in her irises. Defined lashes and a precise brow shape do the heavy lifting, while a beige-rose lip keeps the whole look elegant and very her.

With a gentle peachy-pink blush and matching creamy lip, giving that monochrome, “petal” effect, Sreeleela has a fresh, young take on classic festive glam. A fine, flicked eyeliner, champagne shimmer on the lids and lengthened lashes bring soft definition to the eyes. The loosely tied hair, dressed with fresh gajra frames the face beautifully.

Below, a roundup of the best beauty looks from this week:


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Holy Curse’s Oscar run may be over, but the 16-minute film wins where it really counts

About a week after The New Yorker posted Snigdha Kapoor’s short film, Holy Curse, on their YouTube channel, commenter StrategicThinker007, true to the pseudonym, posed a question: “Nice movie and acting,” they wrote, “but after watching it, shall I laugh or cry?” Chances are, you’ll do both, because Kapoor manages to pack a hard punch into those 16 minutes. The story is simple: an adolescent named Radha, who could be trans or non-binary (we’re never explicitly told) but definitely does not identify as a girl, is coerced to perform a puja that’s meant to ‘cleanse’ them of this ‘affliction.’ The culprits behind the cleansing are Radha’s overbearing, culturally regressive uncle, their mild-mannered father who is powerless against his elder brother, and their well-meaning but unhelpful mother. Radha’s cousin Bittu tags along, tormenting Radha at first but then proving to be their greatest ally.

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“The family dynamic is something that we have seen in our own families,” shares Kapoor from her home in New York City, neck-deep in a press junket following the film’s inclusion in The New Yorker’s Screening Room. “When I was growing up in India, I went through what Radha was going through. My father used male pronouns for me, I referred to myself with male pronouns, it was very fluid.” Along with this sense of gender fluidity, Radha also inherits Kapoor’s cultural hyphenation. Although the film is set in India (shot in Vasai-Virar) with all the other characters speaking Hindi, Radha talks almost exclusively in English–partially because they’re growing up in the United States but primarily as a way of rejecting the society that’s rejecting them.


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Alia Bhatt’s Anamika Khanna ensemble uses a zardozi-edged cape as its defining layer

Alia Bhatt wears Anamika Khanna couture, styled by Rhea Kapoor, in an ivory lehenga set where the visual weight sits firmly with the cape. The look is built around contrast, pairing light base fabrics with concentrated surface work rather than full-body embellishment.

The cape is styled open and worn in place of a dupatta establishing scale and movement across the body. Its borders carry dense metallic embroidery and pearl detailing, creating a strong frame that defines the silhouette from shoulder to hem. The length and transparency allow the eye to travel, while the embroidery at the edges holds attention.

Polki earrings by Amrapali Jewels and haathphool by Rah Jewels add ornamentation without filling the neckline, allowing the blouse and cape borders to remain the visual centre. Bhatt wears her hair loose with natural volume, keeping the look relaxed. Her makeup follows the same logic. Warm, even skin, softly defined eyes and a muted nude lip complement the palette and embroidery.

From Vogue’s fashion desk:

“Lean into the regal feel of the cape and go all maximal with accessories. Add a polki necklace to add weight to the look while retaining the earrings and hand accessories. A side part slick back hair with crimson lips and heavy smoky eyes to make it all modern without compromising on the old world opulence,” says Vogue India fashion associate Manglien Gangte.

Also read:

Alaya F’s oxblood gown plays with sharp shoulders and a folded waist detail

Alia Bhatt’s romantic draped gown and Sonam Kapoor’s embroidered statement sleeves led this week’s best looks

The case for the oversized-shoulder mini dress this party season


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The new moon on December 20 will affect these three zodiac signs most intensely

The last new moon of the year on December 20 is an auspicious moment to close 2025 and a 9-year cycle in numerology, while preparing to welcome 2026 and plunge gently into the new 9-year chapter that’s opening.

At the time of the new moon on December 20, the moon will lie between the Earth and the sun. Its sunlit side faces the sun, while its Earth-facing side is in shadow. This makes it appear black in the sky. This phenomenon will be exacerbated on December 20, as the new moon will be responsible for the darkest night of the year. Not only will it have a total absence of light, creating a very dark sky, but, as an added bonus, it takes place on the eve of the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. Fortunately, behind this darkness lie messages of light. According to astrologer Rachel Ruth Tate of Casinos Analyzer, this New Moon is ‘a lesson is a blessing’ moment, a reset that pushes us all toward honesty, clarity, evolution and movement, even if we don’t feel ready for it.

What will the new moon in Sagittarius on December 20, 2025 bring us?

“The new moon invites us to introspect, feel and perceive our environment and ourselves,” says Tate. “This new moon, under the sign of Sagittarius, encourages us to set goals and aim high, all the more so as its ruler, Jupiter, is well placed in Cancer. To hit the bull’s-eye, you need to believe in yourself enough to pick up the bow and pull the string.” Venus is close to Sagittarius, helping us to take courage and choose joy. On the other hand, Saturn’s pressure meets Neptune’s fog, which means this new moon isn’t without its challenges, as it’s also under the pressure of a Saturn square in Pisces, which reminds us that there will always be obstacles on the road to success. “Be patient and keep the faith when doubts stand between you and your dreams,” Tate advises. “‘Someday’ has to end up being ‘today’. Keep in mind that you’ll never be as ready as you think you should be.” That said, Neptune, a potentially confusing planet, also blurs things in conjunction with Saturn in Pisces, so be careful not to venture into the realm of illusion. The best advice for this new moon? “Be honest and move forward with love in the process of becoming, however chaotic and imperfect it may be.”

3 zodiac signs particularly targeted by the new moon on December 20:

Cancer: Deeper clarity and emotional reset

You tend to feel each lunation more than other signs, Cancer, because the moon is your master and its cycles correspond to yours. This new moon will be felt more deeply due to the presence of its ruling planet in your sign. Jupiter went retrograde in Cancer in mid-November, and since then, you’ve learned a lot about what you really want for yourself. From what you believe about the origin of the universe to what you want your days to look like, you’ve been doing a lot of thinking about your life… and that’s a good thing. Set yourself clear intentions and do your best.

Sagittarius: Endings that pave the way for new beginnings

This new moon occurs in your sign, Sagittarius, which inevitably heralds new beginnings. However, as some things begin, others come to an end. It’s normal to mourn the end, and it’s much easier to turn the page by acknowledging and accepting the situation with dignity. Your ruling planet, Jupiter, is retrograde in Cancer, which encourages you to accept life’s ups and downs with grace. There’s no peak without a valley, Sagittarius. Venus is conjunct this moon, gently reminding us that there’s also something beautiful behind the next hill. Keep climbing.

Pisces: Tension now, relief soon

You can’t help but feel the tension this lunation, Pisces, with Saturn and Neptune sending difficult squares from your sign. With this extra tension comes a feeling of extra weight, so give yourself more space than usual to rest and decompress. The situation is probably uncomfortable at the moment, preventing you from enjoying life to the full. But this will pass, once Saturn and Neptune have left your usually gentle and pleasant sign, during the first two months of next year. Just a little more effort, Pisces. You’ll soon be able to enjoy yourself again.”

This article first appeared on Vogue.fr


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Should you layer your body care like you layer your skin care? Skin experts weigh in

The body care industry has undergone a major transformation in the last few years. Once an afterthought, (if cared for at all) there is now a wealth of formulas designed to tackle common concerns, from ageing to dry skin as we begin to treat the skin on the rest of the body in line with our visage.

The Korean 10-step skincare regime has stages from cleansing to treatments to masks, which may feel more than enough for our faces. And while we don’t expect we need to have so many lotions and potions for the body, the question remains: should we be layering our body care, even just a little?

According to Dr Richard Devine, aesthetic doctor and founder of Devine Clinic, the answer is yes, “Most people don’t realise how effective it can be,” he tells us. “The skin on the body is thicker than the face, so it often needs more support, especially if you deal with dryness, keratosis pilaris or pigmentation.” But layering doesn’t mean slathering on haphazardly and hoping something sticks . You can be targeted with the application.

“Layering doesn’t mean using lots of products, it simply means applying the right textures in the right order so your actives work properly,” stresses Dr Devine. “A targeted body serum can deliver ingredients deeper into the skin, while a moisturiser seals everything in and reduces water loss. The result is smoother, clearer and more hydrated skin that feels more resilient.”

Anastasia Koles, an aesthetic nurse, adds, “The skin on the body is exposed to friction, clothing, heat and sweat, so it often needs targeted support. A single moisturiser won’t always address things like pigmentation on the décolletage or congestion on the back. Using one product to correct and another to hydrate gives you clearer results with far less effort. Think of it as streamlining, not adding complexity.”

Step 1: Cleansing

A step that (hopefully) is already ingrained as part of hygiene practices, a body wash or cleanser is a staple. But just because it is a basic step, it doesn’t need to be basic. Upgrade your daily ablutions with a sensorially scented formula or make it work harder for you by incorporating active ingredients. Koles says, “Even an AHA body wash twice a week keeps the skin smooth and helps other products penetrate.” Dr Davines suggests, “For body breakouts, salicylic acid helps to clear pores and calm inflammation.”

OUAI Body Cleanser Melrose Place

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Justhuman Revitalizing Body Wash

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Step 2: Exfoliating

“This doesn’t need to be every day,” says Dr Devine. “A chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or glycolic acid used two or three times a week keeps the skin soft and helps any treatment you apply afterwards absorb better.”

Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Body Scrub

₹ 3737

Forest Essentials Body Polisher

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Step 3: Treatment

This is the most important step to solve a concern, according to Dr Devine and generally comes in the form of a body serum. “This is where you put your actives, whether that’s niacinamide for pigmentation, salicylic acid for breakouts or retinol for texture and firmness.” Koles says if you’re short on time, this is the one to maintain: “everything else simply supports it.”


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