Aap Jaisa Koi actor R Madhavan recently opened up about his lifestyle and natural anti-ageing skincare regimen. “My routine is simple: since childhood, I’ve taken an oil bath every Sunday—with nalla ennai [sesame oil]; you apply it all over your body, especially your head. On other days, it’s coconut oil, applied in a specific manner. This ayurvedic practice has served me well for over 20 years,” Madhavan said in an interview.
He also credited playing golf under the early morning sun, which has helped him with “skin tightening and keeping it wrinkle-free”. “The sun suits me. And I haven’t gotten any fillers or enhancements done; maybe the occasional facial for a role. It’s just coconut oil, coconut water, sunshine, and vegetarian food doing the heavy lifting.”
He also emphasized the importance of eating fresh, which is why he has a chef with him on set, too. “When I was young, we didn’t have a fridge at home, so food always had to be freshly prepared. That habit stuck. It’s probably why fast food, packaged stuff, reheated dishes, or non-seasonal fruits don’t go down well with my body. Even when I’m on set, I take my chef along to cook simple meals like dal, sabzi, and chawal—the kind my mom made. I also don’t get all the fuss around rice. My grandparents lived till the ripe old age of 92 and 93, and they ate rice three times a day. I just listen to my body, stick to comfort food, and avoid fried items and alcohol as much as possible. I eat only when I’m hungry, not by the clock. That keeps me alert, happy, and young,” Madhavan, 55, told GQ Hype.
Taking a cue from his honest confession, let’s understand how these practices help.
Dr Shweta Nakhawa, a consultant dermatologist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, called it “wise” to stick to simple routines, such as morning sunlight, natural oils, and nourishing food. “Yes, science agrees. Early morning sunlight, before 9 am, is rich in vitamin D. It helps the body repair skin, boosts mood, and supports collagen production, which keeps skin firm and supple. Moderate exposure can also help reduce inflammation and balance the circadian rhythm. But after 9 am, UV rays intensify, so sunscreen or shade is essential,” said Dr Nakhawa.
According to Dr Nakhawa, coconut oil acts as a natural moisturiser with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. “For dry or mature skin, it hydrates deeply. But for acne-prone or oily skin types, it can clog pores, so always patch test and see how your skin reacts,” shared Dr Nakhawa.
The use of sesame seed oil, particularly in the context of traditional Indian practices, offers numerous benefits, said Dr Shareefa Chause, dermatologist, Dr Shareefa Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai. “Rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins, sesame oil provides deep moisturisation, improves skin elasticity, and may even help in reducing inflammation. A weekly oil bath can help retain skin moisture and support a radiant complexion,” said Dr Chause.
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A vegetarian diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and healthy fats works like internal skincare. Dr Nakhawa described it as fueling the body with antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting a healthy glow from within.
Does this mean ageing can be slowed down with these habits?
Ageing is inevitable, but our lifestyle can influence how we age, said Dr Nakhawa. “Antioxidant-rich foods fight free radicals, hydration helps maintain skin elasticity, and consistent sleep supports cellular repair. Gentle sun exposure, minimal artificial treatments, and a steady routine, like Madhavan’s, can help skin age more gracefully,” said Dr Nakhawa.
As a dermatologist, Dr Nakhawa stressed that she also believes one does not need the most expensive serum or a 10-step skincare routine. “Small, consistent habits are what support long-term skin health.”
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What else can help someone age gracefully?
Good sleep, regular movement, hydration, stress control, and sunscreen. “Ageing well isn’t about looking younger; it’s about feeling good in your skin. And yes, smiling like Madhavan helps too,” said Dr Nakhawa.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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