Brands
Skin deep secrets reveal India needs more than foreign fixes
MUMBAI: Turns out, Indian skin isn’t just a vibe, it’s a science. And no, that imported miracle cream may not know what it’s dealing with. In a fresh move that puts the focus (and the microscope) on local skin needs, ITC Dermafique has launched the Dermafique Indian Skin Knowledge Centre (DISKC), a first-of-its-kind initiative to decode the DNA of desi skin. And it’s not just skin-deep. Backed by the Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report, created with Kantar and top dermatologists, the campaign spills the serum on what truly sets Indian skin apart and why your skincare routine might need a rethink.
Among the glow-getting revelations? Indian skin has more melanin, larger pores, stronger collagen, and a weaker moisture barrier making it a unique cocktail that doesn’t quite play well with one-size-fits-all solutions from abroad. For instance, pigmentation not wrinkles is our early sign of ageing. And while sunburns are rare, 81 per cent of Indian women battle tanning far more frequently.
One insight that’s pore-raising? Indian skin reportedly has four times larger pore size and five times the pore density of Chinese skin. Yet only 7 per cent of respondents saw it as a concern meaning there’s a serious knowledge gap between what’s visible and what’s understood.
The report also sheds light on common concerns like dryness, under-eye flakiness, and acne. A staggering 94 per cent of women aged 20–25 are still battling breakouts, proving acne isn’t just a teenage trauma. And despite diligent moisturising, 87 per cent report under-eye dryness, likely due to a weaker skin barrier and low natural moisturising factors.
ITC Limited divisional chief executive personal care products business Sameer Satpathy states, “Indian skin is unique and requires customized solutions. With the launch of the Dermafique Indian Skin Knowledge Centre, we are committed to fostering awareness and education on the distinct characteristics of Indian skin. Building on this initiative, the ITC Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report offers insights from Indian consumers, that highlight the need for skincare solutions specifically designed for Indian skin. Our new digital infomercials help consumers to understand the uniqueness of Indian Skin, and highlight Dermafique’s expertise in providing solutions that are designed for and dermatologist tested on Indian skin.”
Internationally celebrated cosmetic dermatologist Jaishree Sharad adds, “The Indian consumer is not only more informed today but also deeply invested in understanding the unique needs of their skin. It is vital to recognize the distinct nature of Indian skin, as it presents specific challenges and requirements that are often overlooked in global skincare narratives. The Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report is a great step to bring to light these crucial insights, offering a science-backed perspective on the unique characteristics of Indian skin. Raising awareness about these differences is not just important, it is essential. The Institute marks a significant step towards better understanding the diverse skincare needs of Indian consumers and offers solutions to address the specific challenges they face, empowering them to make more informed, effective choices in their skincare routines.”
To make the science sing, Dermafique has launched a series of digital infomercials demystifying key concerns from pigmentation and tanning to pore care and hydration paired with targeted products designed for Indian skin. There’s even an AI-powered Smart Skin Advisor to help decode your own dermis in a few clicks.
With over 800 women surveyed across four metro cities, the Dermafique report doesn’t just scratch the surface. It reveals that Indian skin needs and deserves skincare that’s rooted in local insight, not just global trends.
And if the Skindian Dot (yes, that’s a thing) is anything to go by, the future of Indian skincare is looking smooth, bright, and gloriously homegrown.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
