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Ask Shahnaz

Beautician Shahnaz Hussain offers tips and answers queries. You can send your queries to shahnaz_press@yahoo.co.in

How do I use a conditioner? Is it a substitute for hair oil? I suffer from dandruff. — Dhivya

No, conditioners are not substitutes for hair oil. A conditioner is suitable for dry hair or hair that has been damaged by colouring or straightening. It helps soften and protect hair. It should be used after shampooing. Basically, there are two kinds of conditioners — the rinse-off and leave-on kinds. A conditioner should be applied sparingly and massaged lightly into the hair. Leave it on for two minutes and rinse it off with plain water, or comb the hair, depending on the type of conditioner you have used. If the hair is oily or if there is dandruff, a rinse would be better than a conditioner. For example, the juice of a lemon can be added to half a mug of water and used as a last rinse after shampooing. Henna also helps condition the hair, as it coats the hair shaft and provides body and protection.

I have put on weight. I was 43 kg a year back and now weigh 60 kg. I always feel hungry. Tell me how to reduce weight. — Jennifer

First of all, you should undergo a medical check-up and then follow a daily exercise routine. Eat the right food. Take low calorie foods. Bringing about a gradual change in your diet will make a difference. For example, avoid dessert after a meal and stick to fresh fruits. Take clear soups (without butter) and salads before the main dish. Avoid rich gravies and cut down on your intake of cereals. Have enough fresh fruits, salads, sprouts, curd and paneer made from skimmed milk, lightly cooked vegetables, fish and chicken. Avoid snacking between meals. If you feel like eating a snack, go in for fruit, sprouts, carrot or cucumber. You can make these tasty by adding lemon juice and chaat masala.

I’m a 15-year-old girl. I’m 5’5" tall and thin. What kind of clothes will suit me? — Anisha

Consider yourself lucky to have good height. Since you are thin, your height may seem more apparent. Remember some rules about colours and fabrics while selecting clothes. For example, light colours and horizontal lines add weight to the figure. A thin and tall person would look good in these. You can wear large prints too and two-colour outfits, like contrasting top with skirts and jeans. Avoid clinging fabrics, as they will make you look thinner. You can wear crisp cottons, high necklines and collars. Your clothes can have details such as lace, gathers or pleats. If you feel you are too thin, exercise will give better shape to your figure.

I have been wearing spectacles for the last 8 years. I have black spectacle marks on my nose (near my eyes). How can I get rid of these marks? — Jyoti

Since the area is close to the eyes, you will have to take care. Apply a little pure almond oil daily and rub it into the skin. Wipe it off with moist cotton wool after 20 minutes. Add lemon juice to besan and apply it on the area. Wash it off when it dries.

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