How to get smooth elbows

The skin around my elbows is extremely dry and white all the time. What can I do to get nice, smooth skin in that area?
- Ritu
Take 1 tablespoon of powdered oats and 1 teaspoon of sesame powder; mix with papaya purée; apply a thick layer of this paste on the elbow, and when dry, scrub off. Follow this with an application of a few drops of glycerine and moisturising lotion. Do this twice a day to see quick results.
Is there a natural and effective way to prevent the occurrence of ingrown hair on my legs and chin?
- Anugraha
Ingrown hair is due to poor circulation. Dry body brushing on the legs will activate circulation and you'll be able to see your growth reducing. Once the hair grows back, give a razor shave: this speeds up the hair growth and your problem will be solved. For your chin, take cinnamon paste, and massage it over the affected area; cinnamon helps blood circulation, which will enable the ingrown hair come to the base.

I am a 13-year-old girl. I think that maybe because I've been using lip balm at an early age or due to excessive exposure to sunlight, my lips have started becoming dark. Can you please suggest a remedy, which isn't messy and does not involve a lot of time - since my school has reopened and my half-yearly exams are coming up?
- Name withheld
I understand your time constraints. I am sure you have time to eat, so start eating delicious fresh fruits and vegetables. If you eat fresh, ripe strawberries, rub the juice of the strawberry on your lips and allow to dry. Leave overnight. Done daily, you will see the lips change to a lighter shade. You must drink at least 8 to 12 glasses of water every day.

My son experienced hair fall a few years ago. Though it has stopped now, the quality of his hair hasn't improved. Do you have any suggestions?
- Name withheld
Diet is very important. Add good carbs like sweet potatoes, fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, nuts, lean meat and fish to his diet. He must drink 10 to 12 glasses of water daily. After shower, while his hair is damp, massage a few drops of water mixed with 4 drops castor oil to his hair - it works both as a hair thickener and conditioner. Every night, he can apply 9 drops of castor oil mixed with 1 tsp of extra virgin coconut oil on his hair. Or if he prefers, 2 hours before shampoo. His hair will start having a thick texture.
I am a 24-year-old woman. I have a terrible case of eye bags; they have been there since my childhood. The eye bags are dark and puffy. Would you please share some remedy to reduce the same?
- Name withheld
Take raw potato slices or pulp, and apply on the eye bags. Doing this daily will help lighten dark circles and reduce puffiness. Drink warm lemon water when you wake up, and also drink at least 10 glasses of water daily.

(Got a beauty-related query? Write to Rima Soni at wknd@khaleejtimes.com)