Celebrity Cosmetologist Aashna Kanchwala: The pressure to look flawless is real, even for celebrities

Celebrity cosmetologist and aesthetic expert Aashna Kanchwala has worked with several well-known names from the entertainment industry, including Elvish Yadav, Jannat Zubair, Aly Goni, Jasmin Bhasin, Uorfi Javed, Ravi Dubey, Sargun Mehta, Sooraj Pancholi, Arbaaz Khan, Munawar Faruqui and Sshura Khan. Known for her natural approach to beauty and skincare, she believes aesthetic treatments today are less about transformation and more about helping people look and feel their best.Having worked closely with celebrities, Aashna has witnessed a significant shift in beauty standards over the years. She shares, “The goal today is to look fresh, rested and confident, not completely different. People are focusing more on healthy skin, confidence and overall well-being rather than chasing unrealistic transformations. The most popular treatments today are subtle rejuvenation procedures, Botox, fillers for facial balancing, skin boosters, collagen-stimulating treatments, skin-tightening procedures, and treatments focused on improving skin quality and glow. The emphasis is more on looking fresh, rested and camera-ready rather than dramatically changing features.”She believes that despite their public image, celebrities often share the same insecurities and concerns as everyone else. She says, “Despite appearing extremely confident publicly, many celebrities have very similar concerns. Most want to look younger, more chiselled on camera and have healthy, glowing skin. Cameras today capture every little detail, so maintaining a fresh appearance becomes important.” She adds, “People often underestimate how much effort goes into maintaining that appearance. Celebrities are usually extremely disciplined with home care, in-clinic procedures and lifestyle maintenance. It is a holistic approach, from prioritising good sleep and nutrition to regular workouts, skincare routines, supplements and timely medical-grade treatments. Maintaining appearance is usually a long-term commitment rather than a one-time fix. Celebrities don't wake up looking perfect every day. Looking and feeling your best is the result of consistency, self-care and confidence, not perfection.”The belief that cosmetic treatments are largely a women's domain is also rapidly changing. She says, “Male aesthetics is booming in the aesthetic medical world. Everyone wants to look youthful and refreshed, whether male or female. Men are now much more open about investing in themselves and maintaining their appearance.”Aashna is equally keen to dispel misconceptions surrounding aesthetic treatments. She says, “People often assume these treatments are unaffordable and only meant for celebrities. The reality is that many treatments are quite cost-effective and accessible. Aesthetic medicine today is no longer exclusive. Most people can achieve subtle enhancements if they choose the right treatment plan.”For her, the growing acceptance of aesthetic treatments is ultimately a positive shift. She says, “People should not be judged for wanting to take care of themselves. Confidence and comfort are more important than perfection.”