Beauty wise DR SHARLENE BENJERS, 57 When I launched ‘Dr Benjer’s Health and Beauty Spa’ in Pune in August 2008, it was not just a new career but a new lease on life. I had a massive heart attack in January 2002. During the 16 days I spent in the ICU in a comatose state, my younger sister Betty kept urging me to fight back. “I won't forgive you if you die," she threatened. I survived and spent the next two years at home. I followed a strict diet and exercise regimen. I was a homeopathic doctor but my practice had almost collapsed. The medical bills had run up to astronomical amounts and I needed to get back to work. After graduating from Bombay Homeopathic Medical College in 1977, I had completed my post-graduation from Millers in Pennsylvania, USA. Returning to Mumbai, I worked at the Malabar Hills clinic of Dr Saligram Homeopathic Charitable Trust, where the clientele included many models and TV stars. Heavy makeup and camera lights wrought havoc on their skin and hair. The problems encouraged me to research medicines and herbs to find appropriate medication. Even after moving to Pune in 1985, I continued to treat skin and hair problems, and earned the affectionate sobriquet of ‘beauty doctor’. I began making creams and lotions at home. I was familiar with such preparations as I used to help my grandparents and mother (who had practised homeopathy) to make them. Consequently, when I decided to resume practice, my patients urged me to start a beauty clinic. Finance was a problem but I managed to rent a flat at Koregaon Park and do it up tastefully. I hired some help and was ready for business. Offering five services — homeopathic healthcare, homeopathic beauty care, spa therapies, beauty salon services, and healing through tarot — my spa specialises in tackling hair and skin problems. I have medication for everything from acne, wrinkles and pigmentation to falling hair, premature greying and dandruff. In my kitchen, I make hair revitalising packs, shampoos, oils, lotions and conditioners with Ayurvedic extracts, homeopathic tinctures, essential oils and herbs. The range of skin and hair medicinal beauty products is marketed under the brand name ‘Naturelles’. Always by my side to help me, Betty — a trained trichologist — says, “The spa connects the mind, body and soul for deeper healing.” I’ve come to believe that she may just be right. — As told to Mita Banerjee Harmony does not endorse any products mentioned in the article. Please use them at your own discretion. Featured in Harmony Magazine January 2010