A 3-year-old girl was rushed to hospital, in critical condition. She had been experiencing fever, vomiting, and coughing for 10 days, with severe difficulty in breathing for the last three. Upon examination, doctors noted significantly reduced air entry on the right side of her chest and abnormal whistling sounds (wheezing), which raised suspicion of a foreign object lodged in her airways.

A chest X-ray confirmed these fears, showing signs of a blocked bronchus. The paediatric team, led by Dr. Deepak Kumar, Consultant in Paediatric Pulmonology and Allergy at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, quickly decided to perform a bronchoscopy — a procedure that uses a flexible camera to examine the airways.

Peanut Fragments in the Airway

During the bronchoscopy, the team discovered a peanut stuck in the right main bronchus — one of the primary air tubes leading to the lungs. The peanut had been lodged there for at least 10 days and had already started causing inflammation. “When organic matter like a peanut stays in the airway, it can trigger granulation tissue and lead to severe infection,” said Dr. Kumar.

As the team attempted removal, the peanut broke into two pieces, a common occurrence with soft organic items. A wire basket tool was used to extract the fragments carefully, a process that took about 5–10 minutes. The child was also given inhalational steroids to reduce inflammation and aid recovery.

Swift Recovery and Discharge

The results were almost immediate. Within hours, her breathing improved, and a follow-up chest X-ray showed significant progress. The child was monitored in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit and was discharged in stable condition on March 15. Today, she is healthy and back to her routine with no lasting complications.

A Hidden Threat

“This isn’t rare,” said Dr. Sonia Mittal, Director of Paediatrics at Max Shalimar Bagh. “Foreign body aspiration in children under five is more common than people think. Toddlers are still learning how to chew and swallow, and their natural curiosity often leads them to put objects in their mouths.”

Items like peanuts, chana, candies, small toys, and marbles can easily be inhaled if a child laughs, talks, or runs while eating. The body has a natural flap — the epiglottis — that prevents food from entering the windpipe. But in children under 3, this mechanism is still developing and can sometimes fail.

Prevention Guidelines for Parents

Doctors urge parents to be cautious with hard foods and small objects:

• Avoid giving whole nuts or dry fruits to children under 3. Instead, crush or grind them.
• Never allow toddlers to eat while playing, running, or lying down.
• Be alert for signs like persistent coughing, wheezing, or breathlessness, which may signal aspiration.

It's 7 a.m., and your day has barely begun, and yet you're already multitasking with a 10-step skincare regimen of foaming cleanser, toner, essence, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, facial oil, sunscreen and don't even get me started on that jade roller and overnight mask from the night before. Ringing any bells? You're not alone.

With wanting a flawless glass skin and TikTok-driven beauty hacks, skincare has evolved from a self-care ritual into what feels like a full-time job. From the 7-step Korean regimen to multi-layered product cocktails touted by influencers, the pressure to “do it all” is real. We’ve been led to believe that more products mean better skin but what if that’s not the whole truth?

Welcome to the world of minimalist skincare, where less isn’t just more, it’s smarter. This article explores the growing shift away from overwhelming routines toward a simpler, science-backed approach to skincare that actually gives your skin room to breathe. Let’s dive into why doing less might just be the best thing you’ll ever do for your skin.

In a world of complicated 10-step skin regimens, the minimalist skin movement is generating a subtle revolution. While bathroom counters are drowning in cleansers, serums, masks, and exfoliators, an increasing number of consumers are demanding to know: do we really need all of this? Driven by science, sustainability, and healthy skin, minimalist skin presents a healthy, results-based alternative to beauty excess.

What is Skin Minimalism?

Skin minimalism isn't about doing the bare minimum or neglecting something—it's about doing what counts. This emerging philosophy is about stripping back your routine to just a handful of must-do steps, prioritizing quality ingredients rather than quantity. By cutting back, you're giving your skin permission to reset, breathe, and get its natural rhythm back.

Rather than applying five serums and following fad beauty trends, skin minimalists stick to a routine that is consistent, evidence-based. That involves fewer actives, less trial and error, and more faith in the skin's natural capacity to repair and regenerate—if supported correctly.

Dermatologist Dr. Kiran Sethi calls it a "skin-first mindset." “It’s not about less effort, it’s about smarter choices. You’re focusing on what the skin truly needs and avoiding the noise,” she says.

The 3-Step Skincare Routine

At the core of minimalist skincare is the three-step skincare routine: cleanse, moisturize, and protect. These steps support skin health at a foundational level.

1. Cleanse

A mild cleanser wipes away dirt, oil, and impurities without upsetting the skin's own moisture barrier. Harsh detergents and over-washing can cause dryness and irritation, so there is an argument for fewer, milder washes—particularly in the morning.

2. Moisturize

Select a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer appropriate for your skin type. Dry skin types should seek humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid; oily skin types should use gel-based products. Toners are not necessary but must be hydrating and non-irritating if used.

3. Sun Protection

No skincare routine would be complete without sunscreen. A broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 not only shields against premature aging and sunspots, but also guards your skin against dangerous risks such as skin cancer. Even minimalist routines never omit this step.

A core component of minimalist skincare is skin fasting, or the act of giving up skincare products completely in order to reboot the skin. Similar to the way intermittent fasting affects the body, skin fasting has the ability to rebalance sebum production, curb inflammation, and restore the barrier function.

To begin, you can try eliminating one product at a time and see how your skin reacts. Throughout this reset phase, hydration (internal and external), sun protection, and gentle cleansing are important. When the skin seems more stable and less reactive, you can then gradually add products back in so that you can see what's really working and what you don't need.

Why is Gen Z Getting Attracted Towards Overdoing Skincare?

Ironically, as skin minimalism picks up steam, a lot of Gen Z consumers are going in the opposite direction. Driven by TikTok trends, influencer routines, and a deluge of product drops, young users tend to get caught up in over-layering active ingredients such as retinoids, AHAs, and vitamin C.

While the ideal may be glassy, blemish-free skin, the reality tends to be heightened sensitivity, breakouts, and a weakened skin barrier. As dermatologists note, excessive skincare can disrupt the skin's microbiome, stimulate inflammation, and even cause product dependency, wherein the skin becomes unable to self-regulate.

Minimalist skincare, on the other hand, permits the skin to become more resilient in the long run—without growing dependent on perpetual topical intervention.

Minimalist skincare isn't about abandoning results—it's just about selecting evidence-based, multi-tasking products and treatments that bring real transformation without over-stressing the skin.

Dr. Sethi invokes Profhilo, a filler injectable of hyaluronic acid-based, as excellent proof. "It's not volumizing or changing your face; it's hydrating deeply and rejuvenating from within," she says. Profhilo provokes the production of collagen and elastin with little downtime and no layering—a perfect application of minimalist philosophies.

This is future skincare: not glitzy, not involved, but utilitarian and productive.

Minimalist skincare is also a reflection of larger values of conscious living. With fewer products there is less packaging waste, less environmental pollution, and a more eco-friendly beauty regimen. It streamlines not only physical clutter but mental clutter—making your mornings, your money, and your skincare routine easier.

Instead of seeking quick fixes and the latest trends, skin minimalism is about taking a step back, listening in, and making skincare a mindful ritual.

Is Minimalism Right for Everyone?

Although skin minimalism is suitable for most individuals, especially those with sensitive, reactive, or overburdened skin, it will likely need to be adjusted. Individuals with particular skin issues such as acne, rosacea, or eczema must consult a dermatologist before streamlining too extensively.

The concepts, however intentionality, simplicity, and respect for the skin—are universal positives.

Minimalist skincare is not just a trend it's a revolution for your skin rooted in science, sustainability, and simplicity. In an era where more often equates to better, this movement shows that less really can be more.

Dr Kiran Sethi is a dermatologist and celebrity skin expert with specialisation in Integrative Aesthetic, Founder and Medical Director Isya Aesthetics and the author of Best Seller Skin Sense

Who hasn't ever forgotten a friend's name, lost their glasses, or had trouble remembering a word that was just "on the tip of the tongue"? These little memory blips are normal, particularly with age. But with increasing awareness about dementia and cognitive decline, even occasional forgetfulness can raise alarm. Is it just aging or something worse?

Though periodic memory loss is a natural aspect of aging, distinguishing it from the onset of dementia is important to ensure early intervention. Here's a closer examination of when forgetfulness is harmless—and when it might require medical attention.

What are Normal Age-Related Memory Changes?

Aging brings natural changes to our bodies and brains. Known as age-associated memory impairment, these changes are mild and don’t interfere with day-to-day function. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), healthy aging is about maintaining functional ability and well-being even as biological changes occur.

With normal aging:

• You may occasionally forget names or appointments, but remember them later.
• Multitasking becomes harder, and it may take longer to learn new things.
• Concentration can decline, particularly in distracting settings.

These changes are generally more irritating than distressing. Most importantly, most elderly persons maintain independence, functional memory, and the capacity for engaging in meaningful activities.

What are Dementia-Related Memory Changes?

Dementia is not a normal aspect of aging. It is a medical illness that includes a gradual loss of memory, thinking, behavior, and the capacity to carry out daily activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent type, but there are numerous others—such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal disorders.

The main differences between aging and dementia:

• In typical aging, you might forget some aspect of an experience. With dementia, whole experiences are forgotten.
• Dementia entails persistent, deteriorating problems with communication, decision-making, orientation, and even personality.
• Healthy older adults are usually conscious of their forgetfulness, but individuals with dementia may not have insight into their own deterioration.

Signs Your Forgetfulness May Be More Than Aging

Some indicators transcend normal memory slips and might signal an underlying cognitive disorder. Let's examine the most revealing differences:

1. Memory Changes

Normal: Occasionally forget names or appointments.

Concerning: Forget recent things, repeat oneself, or get lost in familiar settings.

2. Language Challenges

Normal: Struggle briefly to name something.

Concerning: Often lose train of thought, use wrong words, or have trouble keeping up.

3. Problem Solving & Decision Making

Normal: Need more time to make decisions.

Concerning: Struggle to manage finances, prepare meals, or organize activities previously done easily.

4. Decline in Independence

Normal: Continue with home maintenance and personal care.

Concerning: Need assistance with dressing, bathing, medication, or bill payment.

5. Disorientation

Normal: Remember occasionally where you placed something or the date.

Concerning: Disoriented about place, time of day, or season.

6. Personality & Mood Changes

Normal: Minimal mood shifts in reaction to life events.

Concerning: Unusual irritability, paranoia, or avoiding social activities.

7. Social Withdrawal

Normal: Prefer solitude at times.

Concerning: Refuse interaction because you are confused or cannot keep up with conversation.

8. Lack of Awareness

Normal: Acknowledge your forgetfulness and learn how to make up for it.

Concerning: Deny or are unaware of decline even when pointed out by others.

9. Progressive Pattern

Normal: Changes are not frequent and don't progress quickly.

Concerning: Symptoms become worse—from intermittent lapses to persistent confusion and dysfunction.

Other Causes of Memory Loss You Ought Not to Ignore

All memory issues aren't due to dementia. Some reversible or treatable conditions cause similar symptoms:

• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12)
• Thyroid or liver dysfunction
• Side effects of medications
• Chronic depression, anxiety, or stress
• Untreated sleep apnea or insomnia
• Head injury or concussion
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Infections or tumors of the brain

A full assessment by a medical provider is necessary to ascertain the cause.

What Is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)?

Mild Cognitive Impairment occupies the place between normal aging and dementia. People with MCI have observable memory or thought problems that surpass typical age-related decline—but are still capable of independent living. MCI will either stay the same, or in some cases, will worsen to Alzheimer's disease.

Things You Can Do to Help Brain Health

If you or the person you care about is undergoing cognitive changes, these measures will assist in sustaining function and quality of life:

Maintain routines: Regular daily routines aid in memory and minimizing confusion.

Organize yourself: Use notes, calendars, or cell phone reminders.

Challenge your mind: Read, play puzzles, or take up a new hobby.

Stay connected socially: Social isolation may worsen cognitive decline.

Physical exercise: Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain.

Prioritize nutrition: Consume a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables, omega-3s, and antioxidants.

Get quality sleep: 7–9 hours at night.

Manage chronic conditions: Maintain diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol control.

When to See a Doctor?

If memory issues begin affecting your or a loved one's day-to-day activities, it's time to seek help. Signs include:

• Getting lost in familiar areas
• Having trouble with personal care
• Repeating stories or asking the same questions
• Having trouble managing money or medications

Don't jump to conclusions but don't wait. A timely diagnosis provides for more effective planning, care, and in some instances, treatment which can halt progression.

Aging has its own unique changes, yet not all forgetfulness indicates an urgent issue. Nevertheless, knowledge and initiative make a world of difference. Educate yourself about the signs, pay attention to your body and never be afraid to consult professionals. Caught early, most factors behind memory problems can be solved, allowing you or your loved one the utmost opportunity for a healthy, well-lived life.

“I remember waking up and feeling a strange numbness in one side of my face, I thought I slept wrong, but nothing could’ve prepared me for what I saw in the mirror that day.” Bobby followed a similar pattern of daily habits, wake up, finish the household duties, prepare the kids for their day, exercise and sleep as early as she can. However, worrying symptoms of facial paralysis were evident.

Being a homemaker, Bobby did not have out of the ordinary issues that could cause a disease contraction or sudden illness. “Upon visiting the doctor, we found out that this was a condition called ‘Bell’s Palsy’ a sudden and unexplained condition. As quickly as the symptoms showed up, we hoped the condition would also disappear, however that was a short-lived dream as it took months of physical therapy and medication to finally be rid of it.”

Bell palsy occurs when the muscles in one side of your face suddenly become weak or can't move at all. It usually starts quickly and can get worse within two days. This happens because the nerve in your face (called the facial nerve) gets damaged and you might feel pain or feel uncomfortable on that side of your face or head.

Bell palsy can affect anyone, no matter their age but it occurs more often among pregnant women and in people who have diabetes, flu, cold, or any other kind of sickness in their nose or throat. Men and women get it equally and it's not very common in kids younger than 15 or adults older than 60.

While you may not have heard of this disease, it is quite common. Dr. Siddharth Gautam, Neurosurgeon and a Member of Doctube, explains how approximately Bell’s palsy impacts approximately 15-30 people per 100,000 annually worldwide, in India. “In my neurosurgery practice, I see a significant number of cases each year, underscoring that this condition, while often overlooked in public awareness, is not uncommon.”

How Well Versed Are People With This Condition?

“In my experience, most patients are taken by surprise when diagnosed. Bell’s palsy typically presents abruptly, with rapid-onset, one-sided facial weakness or paralysis, often within hours” explained Dr. Gautam, he further explained how the change in their face can be deeply unsettling and causes people to take immediate steps. Other subtle signs include ear pain, altered taste, or facial tingling which could be early signs. However, people often mistake them as dental issues or ear problems, leading to delay in diagnosis.

Early Intervention Is Crucial For Bell Palsy Treatment

Dr. Gautum emphasized the need of early intervention, “Treating Bell’s palsy is the critical time window for intervention. Early initiation of corticosteroids, ideally within the first 72 hours, significantly improves outcomes.” He explained that people don't realize they have it quickly or wait too long to see a doctor, it can take longer to get better, and their face might not fully go back to normal. Also, it's important to help patients feel less worried and deal with how their face looks different, but this often doesn't get enough attentio

Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy

According to John Hopkins Medicine, bell palsy isn't usually something that stays forever but sometimes, in rare cases, it doesn't go away completely. Right now, doctors don't know how to cure Bell palsy. Most people start to get better within two weeks to six months after it starts, most people get all the strength and movement back in their face.

• Trouble moving face muscles for things like smiling, squinting, blinking, or closing your eye
• Headache
• Watery eye (tearing)
• Drooling
• Losing your sense of taste on the front part of your tongue
• Being extra sensitive to sounds in one ear
• Not being able to close one of your eyes

Can It Cause Long-Term Damage?

Bell palsy usually goes away over time without causing lasting issues. But it's important to take any medicine your doctor gives you. Protecting your eye from drying out is also key. Using eye drops during the day and ointment at night can help prevent scratches.

Bell palsy usually starts to get better in about two weeks. But it can take three to six months to go back to normal. Call your doctor if you don't get better, you have new symptoms, or your symptoms get worse.

What are the Risk Factors related to Bell Palsy?

Dr Gautum explains that there are some risks associated with bell’s palsy which include viral infections, diabetes, and hypertension. Another factor could be “pregnancy (especially in the third trimester), and recent upper respiratory infections. In my clinical practice, I also observe that stress and certain autoimmune conditions may predispose individuals to this condition, potentially affecting nerve function.”