Host: Ananya Mehta
Guest: Karisma Kapoor
Intro
Ananya:
Hello, listeners! Welcome to another episode of Glow & Tell, where we uncover beauty secrets and self-care rituals with some of India's most iconic personalities. I'm your host, Ananya Mehta, and today, I am beyond thrilled to welcome the evergreen beauty, the queen of the '90s, and a timeless style icon who continues to inspire us all. Please join me in welcoming Karisma Kapoor!
Karisma:
(Laughs) Thank you, Ananya! That's quite the introduction. I'm blushing already.
Ananya:
But it's all true! Karisma, your skin has always been the talk of the town. Fans, critics, and even fellow actors rave about your radiant complexion. So, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, how are you feeling today?
Karisma:
I'm doing great, Ananya. It's always a pleasure to talk about skincare and share a few secrets. After all, sharing is caring, right?
Segment 1: The Evolution of Karisma's Skincare Routine
Ananya:
Let's start from the beginning. You've been in the industry since you were 16. How has your skincare routine evolved over the years?
Karisma:
Honestly, in my teens and even into my 20s and 30s, I didn't do much. We were constantly on the move, hopping from one set to another. Life was hectic. It's only now, in my 40s, that I've realized the importance of self-care and a consistent routine. (livemint.com)
Ananya:
That's surprising! So, what does your current routine look like?
Karisma:
It's quite simple. In the morning, I use a gentle cleanser, followed by a moisturizer and, most importantly, sunscreen. At night, I cleanse again, apply an eye cream, a serum, and finish with a nourishing night cream. This three-step process hydrates my skin, plumps it up, and gives me that glow the next day. (livemint.com)
Ananya:
Simplicity is key, it seems. But with such a busy schedule, how do you ensure consistency?
Karisma:
I believe skincare is a beautiful way for women to de-stress, even if they have only 10 minutes for it. It's about making that time for yourself, no matter how packed the day is. (livemint.com)
Segment 2: Karisma's Go-To Skincare Hack
Ananya:
Speaking of routines, is there one skincare hack that's been a game-changer for you?
Karisma:
Absolutely. One thing I swear by is never going to bed with makeup on. No matter how tired I am, I always remove my makeup before sleeping. I follow this with an oil-based serum and a face cream. It's a non-negotiable for me. (elle.in)
Ananya:
That sounds like a golden rule. But let's be honest, after a long day on set, isn't it tempting to just crash?
Karisma:
Oh, trust me, it is! There have been times after shooting intense scenes, like in Zubeidaa, where all I wanted was to hit the bed. But I remind myself that my skin has worked hard too. It deserves that care. Plus, waking up with clogged pores isn't worth it.
Ananya:
(Laughs) True! So, this routine has been with you for a while?
Karisma:
Yes, and it's made a significant difference. In the early days, I was more carefree. But as I understood my skin better, I realized the importance of cleansing and moisturizing. It's like giving your skin a fresh start every day.
Segment 3: The Kapoor Family's Beauty Secrets
Ananya:
Your family is known for their timeless beauty. Have you inherited any skincare secrets from them?
Karisma:
Oh, absolutely. My grandmothers had incredible skin. My dadi would always tell us, "Ghee khao." Adding a little bit of ghee in your food or applying a bit of it on your face goes a long way. Growing up, I would apply malai (cream) on my face regularly and follow home remedies. (grazia.co.in)
Ananya:
Ghee and malai? That's so traditional and yet so effective.
Karisma:
Yes, and it's all about natural nourishment. Even now, I sometimes indulge in homemade fruit packs. Using seasonal fruits, I create masks that keep my skin healthy and glowing. (betterbutter.in)
Ananya:
It's refreshing to hear that despite all the advanced products available, you still trust age-old remedies.
Karisma:
Absolutely. While I do use modern products, I believe in balancing them with natural remedies. It's about understanding what your skin needs and providing it with the best of both worlds.
Segment 4: The Impact of Skincare on Self-Image
Ananya:
Karisma, being in the limelight means constant scrutiny. Has your skincare routine played a role in your self-image and confidence?
Karisma:
Definitely. When you take care of your skin, it reflects not just externally but internally as well. It's a form of self-respect. There have been days when, despite the pressures of the industry, my skincare routine has been my sanctuary. It's a time when I connect with myself, away from the cameras and the noise.
Ananya:
That's profound. So, it's more than just skin deep?
Karisma:
Exactly. It's about mindfulness. My approach to mindfulness is very simple: I just like to listen to music. I've always loved yoga. I don't like to complicate and do too many things. Whether it's with dressing or the kind of person I am, less is more. We should just keep things honest and basic. (livemint.com)
Ananya:
So, skincare becomes a form of meditation?
Karisma:
In a way, yes. It's a moment of pause, a time to reflect and care for oneself. And when you feel good inside, it shows on the outside.
Segment 5: Karisma's Advice to the Younger Generation
Ananya:
For our younger listeners, especially those in their 20s, what advice would you give regarding skincare?
Karisma:
Start early. Do less, but do a little bit. If you take care of your skin in your teens or your early 20s, it will obviously preserve a little more, especially if you use sunblock. In the early ’90s, sunblock was never really a big thing. We were running in the sun getting vitamin D and tanned. We never knew the importance of sun protection, but with so much research today from across the world, a sunscreen is a must. (livemint.com)
Ananya:
So, prevention is better than cure?
Karisma:
Absolutely. And remember, it's not about using a plethora of products. It's about understanding your skin and giving it what it needs. Consistency is key.
Ananya:
Wise words. And what about makeup? Any tips there?
Karisma:
Keep it simple. I love having fresh skin that's paired with a bright lip balm and kohl-rimmed eyes. It's a classic look that never goes out of style. (elle.in)
Segment 6: The Emotional Impact of Skincare
Ananya:
Karisma, beyond the physical benefits, has your skincare routine had an emotional impact on you?
Karisma:
Yes, it has. There was a time post-Zubeidaa when I was facing a lot of scrutiny—people commenting on my looks, my choices. One night, after a long shoot, I remember feeling really exhausted. I just sat with my cleansing balm and told myself, "Karisma, this is for you. For your skin, but also your soul." That kind of grounding connection was so important. My kids chuckle that I "talk" to my cleansers. But honestly, it made me calmer, more appreciative of myself, filters or not.
Ananya:
That's incredibly candid. Did this newfound routine change social dynamics too?
Karisma:
Absolutely. I stopped hiding my face behind massive sunglasses when I had pimples. Started meeting friends for coffee without worrying, "Oh god, concealer!" And it trickled into work too—I asked for makeup breaks, hydrated more. Over time, team members noticed, "Karisma, you're less anxious, more...you!" Also, I started sharing tips with crew members, even makeup dadas and interns. We'd swap skin stories instead of gossip. (laughs)
Ananya:
The on-set skincare club—I can totally picture that.
Segment 7: Karisma Unfiltered
Ananya:
Apart from your routine, any quick fixes for those days when your skin rebels right before a major shoot or public appearance?
Karisma:
Oh, so many! Ice cubes wrapped in a muslin cloth—life savior. Instantly helps with puffiness, especially after a long night bingeing on my favorite shows. I know, my guilty pleasure! (laughs) Also, never underestimate the magic of a chilled cucumber slice. If my skin is freaking out, I go makeup light, focus on a bold lip, and just own it. Director be like, "Face bright hai? Okay, close-up ready!" Sometimes, it's all about confidence.
Ananya:
A little ice, a lot of attitude. We love! Before we close, is there one piece of advice you'd pass on to young actors—or anyone—struggling to love the skin they're in?
Karisma:
Definitely. Skin is like career—it has ups, downs, auditions, some rejections. But if you treat it with patience, respect, and a little TLC, it surprises you with its glow. Love your skin at every stage. And never compare your "behind-the-scenes" to someone else's red carpet. Also, always, remove your makeup before bed—even if