India, March 27 -- H omemade skincare remedies, often made with kitchen ingredients, have long been a part of Indian households, passed down through generations. Today, they've found renewed popularity on Instagram Reels, where influencers swear by quick, natural face packs. Affordable and easy to make, these remedies promise glowing skin, but are they actually safe? According to hair transplant surgeon and dermatologist Dr Kashish Kalra, it's important to separate myth from science when it comes to DIY skincare. As these remedies gain popularity, Dr Kashish urges caution. "While it may seem natural and harmless, dermatologists often strongly discourage these remedies," he says, adding that DIY skincare is rarely recommended by experts. "Many patients end up with damaged skin barriers, irritation, and worsening pigmentation," he explains. Certain widely used ingredients can do more harm than good, especially when applied without understanding their effects on the skin. 1. Lemon 2. Toothpaste on pimples 3. Baking soda 4. Sugar scrubs 5. Raw egg masks While some natural ingredients can be gentler on the skin, Dr Kashish stresses a key point: "Despite the ingredients being suitable in some form or other, they still are not a replacement for proper skincare." Here are a few that may be used with caution: 1. Turmeric Contains beneficial compounds like tetrahydrocurcumin and has mild anti-inflammatory properties. 2. Oatmeal Gentle, and is suitable for irritated or sensitive skin. 3. Honey Mild antibacterial properties, and can provide temporary hydration. 4. Yoghurt or sour milk Contains lactic acid and offfers gentle exfoliation and mild brightening. 5. Aloe vera Known for anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, and helps calm irritated skin....