How Modern Gen Z Lifestyles Are Impacting Skin, Hair And Overall Wellbeing; Know From Expert

Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is a generation that prospers in a hyper-connected world of endless scrolling, late-night reels, and hustle culture. In India, more than half of the population is under the age of 35 and this generation balances extreme academics, gig economy jobs, and social media stardom, all while forgoing sleep for screens. Experts point out that the blue light emitted by smartphones affects melatonin levels, causing the skin to age faster and resulting in "tech neck" pigmentation. Dehydration caused by coffee-fueled all-nighters results in dull skin and brittle hair, while stress-related cortisol levels cause acne and hair loss. Pollution in cities such as Delhi further exacerbates oxidative stress, requiring a complete overhaul of young people's lifestyles.

As a result, a quiet but powerful shift is underway. Instead of masking damage with cosmetics or overexerting in gyms, Gen Z is choosing mindful skincare, scalp health, yoga, breathwork, and holistic wellness. This is not an aesthetic trend; it is a survival response. For Gen Z, wellness is essential, not aspirational. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr Blossom Kochhar, Pioneer in Aromatherapy and Founder, Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies, states how modern Gen Z lifestyle impacts skin, hair and overall health.

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Dr Blossom Kochhar states, “Pollution and screen exposure weaken the skin barrier, environmental stress disrupts scalp health and makes the nervous system become overstimulated.” She emphasises gentle restoration over aggressive correction, focusing on mindful, natural care. Her deep-rooted philosophy is states, “What you apply to your face should be as good and pure as what you eat.”

Environmental Stress Can Lead To

• Pollution particles penetrate pores, causing inflammation and oxidative stress
• A weakened skin barrier, resulting in sensitivity and dehydration
• Dullness, pigmentation, breakouts, and premature ageing

Simple Skin Rituals

• Gentle cleansing: Milk with a hint of turmeric to purify while maintaining hydration
• Mild exfoliation: Fresh cream mixed with powdered almonds to remove dead skin cells
• Natural toning: Rose water to calm irritation and restore pH balance
• Deep hydration: A blend of rose water, glycerine, vinegar, and honey
• For stressed skin: A mask of mashed banana, vegetable oil, and honey applied for 20 minutes restores elasticity, glow, and resilience.

Why Skincare Is Non-Negotiable for Gen Z: Gen Z understands that heavy makeup may hide imperfections but can trap pollutants and worsen long-term damage. As a result:

• Skincare takes priority over makeup
• Gentle cleansing, hydration, antioxidants, and daily sunscreen are seen as environmental defence
• Healthy, resilient skin, not flawless coverage, is the new status symbol
• The focus is on supporting the skin, not controlling it

Pollution’s Effect on Hair and Scalp Health: Pollution settles into the scalp before affecting the hair shaft, leading to clogged follicles and weakened roots.

Scalp-Care Remedies

• Lime seed powder and black pepper powder with water or ginger juice to stimulate circulation
• Lime juice and coconut milk with lavender essential oil to strengthen roots
• Crushed hibiscus leaves and fenugreek seeds to reduce dryness and hair fall

Lifestyle Changes Impacting Hair, Skin And Health (Image Credits: Canva)

Gen Z’s Shift Toward Root-Level Hair Care:

• Scalp-focused routines are becoming standard
• Oil massages and sulfate-free cleansers are preferred
• Heat styling is being reduced
• Hair health is viewed as long-term vitality, not just shine

Redefining Fitness and Mental Wellness

Gen Z recognises that overtraining, especially in polluted environments can:

• Raise cortisol levels
• Increase inflammation, acne, and hair fall
• Lead to burnout and hormonal imbalance

As a result, Gen Z is embracing:

• Yoga for balance and recovery
• Breathwork to improve lung capacity
• Low-impact movement to reduce stress

Mental wellness is also a priority:

• Therapy, meditation, journaling, and mindfulness are becoming mainstream
• Lower stress supports healthier skin, hair, immunity, and energy levels

Clean, Conscious, and Minimal Living: Living in a polluted world has reshaped Gen Z’s habits:

• Ingredient transparency matters
• Sustainability matters
• Minimalism matters - fewer products, fewer steps, fewer harsh chemicals

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A Cultural Reset, Not a Trend: At the heart of Gen Z’s mindset and Dr Kochhar’s philosophy lies simplicity, balance, and prevention.

Gen Z is choosing:

• Healing over hiding
• Balance over burnout
• Prevention over correction

In a harsher world, their message is clear: Wellness is no longer optional, it is essential.