US Reporter

Dr SCS Outlines Easy and Practical Tips for Reducing Skin Inflammation

Dr SCS Outlines Easy and Practical Tips for Reducing Skin Inflammation
Photo Courtesy: Dr SCS / Dr. Sonal Chavda-Sitaram

By: Che Vidalia

Red, irritated skin affects millions of people’s confidence and comfort daily. “Understanding inflammation is crucial for achieving healthy skin,” explains Dr Sonal, founder of Complete by Dr SCS. “While acute inflammation plays a protective role, chronic inflammation can create persistent skin concerns.

Think of inflammation as your skin’s alarm system,” explains Dr Sonal. “The key is not to silence this alarm, but to address what’s triggering it.” 

She explains that through understanding these triggers, we can better manage skin health. Research has identified multiple factors that contribute to skin inflammation, with microbiome imbalance and environmental oxidative stress being two significant elements that can be effectively managed through evidence-based approaches.

Managing Microbiome Imbalance: Restoring Skin Balance

The skin hosts a complex community of beneficial bacteria essential for health. Modern factors like harsh cleansers, environmental pollutants, stress, and dietary choices can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to inflammation.

For external support, “Probiotic derivatives in skincare show promise in supporting skin barrier function,” Dr Sonal explains. “Maintaining skin pH between 4.7-5.5 is crucial, which is why pH-balanced, mild cleansers form the foundation of healthy skincare. Following this gentle cleansing, ingredients like niacinamide at 2-5% concentration have demonstrated the ability to strengthen the skin barrier.

Internally, the gut-skin axis plays a crucial role in skin health. Research demonstrates how specific oral probiotics can help modulate systemic inflammation. 

A combination of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains can support skin health through multiple mechanisms,” Dr Sonal notes. “These beneficial bacteria help strengthen the gut barrier, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s immune response.” 

This internal support works best when combined with a diet rich in polyphenols and fibre from whole foods, including fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, and kimchi. 

Managing Oxidative Stress: Protecting Skin Health

Environmental factors create a complex challenge for skin health. “UV radiation and pollution generate free radicals that trigger oxidative stress and inflammation,” explains Dr Sonal. “This requires a multi-faceted approach combining protective and reparative strategies.”

Topical antioxidants provide the first line of defense. Key ingredients include azelaic acid at 10% concentration for its proven anti-inflammatory properties, zinc for supporting skin repair processes, and salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation while maintaining calm in the skin. These ingredients work synergistically to combat oxidative damage while supporting the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.

Building Long-Term Skin Resilience

A comprehensive approach to skin health combines protection, repair, and internal support. For daily care, Dr Sonal recommends starting with gentle, pH-balanced cleansing, followed by hydrating and protective ingredients. 

Ceramide-rich moisturisers combined with anti-inflammatory ingredients like azelaic acid (10%) and zinc provide essential barrier support,” she advises. “Look for fragrance-free formulations with glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Start with once-daily application for sensitive skin, increasing frequency as tolerance builds.

Morning routines should prioritise protection, beginning with antioxidant serums containing vitamin C, followed by broad-spectrum SPF 30-50. Evening focus shifts to repair and regeneration through gentle cleansing and antioxidant-rich products.

This external care works best when supported by lifestyle factors: quality sleep (7-9 hours), consistent hydration, regular exercise, and a nutrient-rich diet with minimal ultra-processed foods. Research shows that ultra-processed foods can trigger inflammatory responses in the body that could affect skin health. Instead, focus on whole foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, berries, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins that provide essential nutrients for skin repair and protection. 

The key to lasting skin health isn’t about quick fixes,” concludes Dr Sonal. “It’s about building resilience through consistent, evidence-based practices that strengthen your skin’s natural defence mechanisms over time.

 

For more evidence-based skincare insights and nutrition tips, explore at www.completebydrscs.com

 

Join our growing community of skin science enthusiasts:

Instagram: @completebydrscs

TikTok: @completebydrscs

Facebook: Complete by Dr SCS

Pinterest: @completebydrscs

LinkedIn: Complete by Dr SCS 

 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may include promotional content. Dr. Sonal and Complete by Dr SCS may benefit financially from the recommendations or products mentioned herein. Any claims about the effectiveness of products or practices are based on current research and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Individual results may vary, and readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to their skincare or health routines.

 

 

Published by Iris S.

(Ambassador)

This article features branded content from a third party. Opinions in this article do not reflect the opinions and beliefs of US Reporter.