Experts in Residence 03: Women’s Health & Beauty Tips from NHS GP Dr. Shireen

read time: 7 minutes

We’re now in the third month of our Experts in Residence series here at UKLASH, where we collaborate with top beauty industry specialists to bring you expert-backed, natural beauty tips—helping us all to Never Stop Growing.

This March, in honour of International Women’s Day, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Shireen, an NHS doctor, medical educator, and mother of two, who truly understands the challenges of balancing motherhood, career, and self-care. From postpartum changes to hormonal imbalances, she shares valuable insights on women’s health, skincare, and haircare—and how these factors affect our confidence and self-esteem, making this conversation especially meaningful during a month dedicated to empowering women.

As a GP and member of the Royal College of Physicians, Dr. Shireen has also earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education and a qualification in Public Speaking, making her a trusted expert in speaking on women’s wellness and beauty. In 2020, she took to social media to break the stigma around taboo topics like pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and hormonal health—empowering women with knowledge they might not feel comfortable asking their own doctor about.

In this article, Dr. Shireen answers key questions about how life’s biggest transitions impact skin and hair health—and what you can do to maintain your natural beauty and confidence. Read on for her expert advice…

What inspired you to take to social media to speak on women’s health and wellness?

I started sharing medical content on social media after noticing how many friends had health questions but felt too embarrassed to ask their GP. I quickly realized this was a widespread issue—many avoid seeking help due to stigma or uncertainty. At the same time, misinformation, especially around women’s health, was everywhere. My goal is to provide reliable, evidence-based information in an approachable way, breaking down stigmas and empowering people to take control of their health.

What made you want to become a GP? 

I chose to become a GP because I love the variety it offers—I get to see people from all walks of life, from newborn babies to the elderly, and no two days are ever the same. One of the most rewarding aspects is building long-term relationships with patients, following them through different stages of their lives and being a constant source of support in their healthcare journey.
I also wanted a career with a good work-life balance, and general practice has given me the flexibility to pursue my passion for medicine while prioritising my family.

You often mention that patients sometimes hesitate to see their GP, either out of concern for taking up time or due to feeling shy. What are your top tips for making the most of a GP appointment to ensure the best outcome?

Your health matters and no issue is too small! To make the most of your GP appointment, here are my top tips:
○ Prepare in Advance – Write down your main concerns and key symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse. This helps ensure you don’t forget anything important.
○ Prioritise Your Concerns – If you have multiple issues, mention them at the start so your GP can help prioritise within the appointment time. Some problems may need a follow-up visit.
○ Be Honest and Open – There’s no need to feel embarrassed—GPs have seen and heard it all. The more open you are, the better we can help.
○ Bring a List of Medications – If you’re on any regular medications, supplements, or over-the-counter treatments, have a list ready. This helps to minimise extra questioning or misunderstandings.
○ Ask Questions – If you don’t understand something, ask! Your GP is there to help, and it’s important you feel clear about any advice, treatment options, or next steps.
○ Follow Up if Needed – If your symptoms persist or change, don’t hesitate to book another appointment. 

As a busy mother of two with limited time, what is the one essential step in your skincare routine that you absolutely can’t go without?

If I had to pick just one skincare essential, it would be SPF. It’s the ultimate pro-ageing step and, more importantly, helps prevent skin cancer. Sun damage is a leading cause of premature ageing, and daily sunscreen protects against fine lines, pigmentation, and long-term damage.
That said, cleansing and retinol are a close 2nd and 3rd! Cleansing removes dirt, makeup, and pollution, while retinol boosts skin renewal and collagen. But if there’s one non-negotiable, SPF wins every time!

We’ve just launched our LED Dual Light Pro-Therapy Face Mask to achieve firmer, brighter, and more balanced skin. From a medical perspective, what are the key benefits of LED face masks, and how should beginners incorporate them into their daily routine?

LED face masks have gained a lot of attention for their skin benefits, and from a medical perspective, they can be a great addition to a skincare routine. The key benefits depend on the type of light used:
Red Light (Pro-Ageing & Repair) – Stimulates collagen production to improve skin firmness, reduce fine lines, and support healing. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help calm redness and irritation.
Near-Infrared Light (Deep Repair & Circulation) – Penetrates deeper to promote skin repair, reduce inflammation, and boost circulation, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

For beginners, LED masks should be introduced gradually:
○ Start with 3 sessions per week 
○ Use on cleansed and dry skin to allow the light to penetrate effectively.
○ Keep sessions short, typically around 10 minutes (some masks, like the UKLASH LED Dual Light Pro-Therapy Face Mask, have a timer and automatically switch off) 

LED therapy is often used for hair growth as well—have you found that it helps to combat conditions like hair thinning or alopecia?

Yes, LED therapy, particularly red light therapy, is gaining popularity for hair regrowth. Some studies suggest it can stimulate hair follicles, boost scalp circulation, and reduce inflammation (which can play a part in conditions like alopecia and telogen effluvium), creating a healthier environment for growth.
While results vary, LED therapy is most effective when used consistently over several months and works best for mild to moderate hair thinning. It’s often combined with other treatments like Hair Growth Serum, or microneedling for enhanced results.

If someone wanted to start using an LED mask but had no clue where to begin, what’s the simplest routine you’d recommend?

For someone new to LED masks, the key is to start simple and stay consistent. Here’s an easy routine to follow:
Start with clean, dry skin – Wash your face with a gentle cleanser or Micellar Water to remove any makeup, dirt, or oils. This helps ensure the light can penetrate effectively.
Use the LED mask 3-5 times a week
Keep the mask on for at least 10 minutes (most masks, like the UKSKIN one, have an inbuilt timer) 
Follow up with skincare – apply your usual serums and moisturisers. If you’re using it in the morning, always finish with SPF.
Be patient and consistent – Results won’t be immediate, but with regular use over a few weeks, you’ll start noticing improvements in skin texture, brightness, and overall balance.

If someone wants longer, stronger lashes, what’s the fastest and healthiest way to achieve that?

The fastest and healthiest way to achieve longer, stronger lashes is by combining consistent care with targeted treatments.
○ Use a lash serum – Growth serums such as the range from UKLASH can help nourish and strengthen lashes, reducing breakage and promoting longer, thicker growth over time.
○ Be gentle with your lashes – Avoid excessive rubbing and tugging. Opt for an oil-based remover to dissolve mascara without friction.
○ Limit eyelash curlers and waterproof mascara – These can dry out and weaken lashes, leading to breakage. If using waterproof mascara, make sure to remove it thoroughly with a gentle cleanser.
○ Maintain a balanced diet – Nutrients like Biotin, Omega-3 fatty acids, and Vitamin E support hair growth, including lashes.

Based on your own experience, are there any specific foods or vitamins you recommend for maintaining healthy skin, particularly during hormonal changes like pregnancy or postpartum?

From my experience, maintaining healthy skin during hormonal changes like pregnancy and postpartum comes down to nourishing from within as well as a solid skincare routine. 
Omega-3 fatty acids which are found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts help reduce inflammation, keep skin hydrated, and support elasticity. Collagen-boosting foods such as bone broth, eggs, and citrus fruits help support collagen production. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables such as berries, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes provide vitamins A, C, and E, which help protect and repair the skin. Hydration is key especially in the postpartum period if the mother is breastfeeding as dehydration is very common. 
I always recommend a ‘food first’ approach for optimal absorption and benefits but if supplements are required then one that contains Omega 3 and Zinc will be most beneficial for the skin. 

UKLASH Recommends >>> Our Hair Vitamins are a great source of Biotin, Vitamin C+E, and Folic Acid which can help to keep your hair, skin and nails nourished when life gets in the way and you’re struggling to maintain a balanced diet

At UKLASH, we aim to cater to women of every age and every stage of life - if you could offer one skincare tip to women for each decade of life from their 20s to their 80s, what would it be? 

Your 20s: The tan isn’t worth it, use SPF!
Your 30s: Consider starting a Vitamin A cream at night such as retinol 
Your 40s: Continue with the great habits you formed in your 30s 
Your 50s: Be conscious of the effects menopause can have on your skin 
Your 60s: Ensure your diet is rich in protein, biotin and collagen-rich foods
Your 70s: Don’t forget SPF!
Your 80s: Appreciate and show gratitude for your skin 

As it’s International Women’s Day on March 8th, who is the most inspirational woman in your life?

My mum. She showed me from a young age that a woman can work hard, hustle in the corporate world and raise a family. She got me reading self-development books from when I was 14 and the impact they had on me is huge. I wouldn’t be where I am without her! 

If you had five more minutes to yourself in the morning, would you spend it on skincare, haircare, or makeup—and why?

I would spend it sleeping - sleep is so important for skin health so I suppose it’s skincare?! (and with 2 young children I don’t get enough of it!)

What is your favourite UKLASH product and why?

I love the Complex Peptide Eyelash Serum - it’s perfect for maintaining my natural lashes and I feel like 2025 is the year of the peptide!  

Our Founder, Nima, is on a mission to combat myths and misinformation in the beauty industry - In your opinion, what is the biggest myth in skin or haircare?

The most dangerous myth is that SPF is dangerous or cancerous! And also that a good skincare routine needs to be complicated - it really doesn’t! 

What’s the one skincare ingredient you recommend to everyone, no matter their skin type?

3 letters - S P F 

What’s the one piece of beauty advice you’d give to your younger self?

WEAR YOUR SPF - the tan isn’t worth it! 

Why is LED good for the skin and what skin types benefit the most?

LED therapy supports skin health by promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and working at a cellular level. Different wavelengths penetrate the skin at varying depths to target specific concerns.
Red light boosts collagen, helping to reduce fine lines, improve elasticity, and calm redness. Near-infrared light penetrates deeper to aid skin repair, enhance circulation, and soothe sensitivity.
The UKSKIN by UKLASH LED Dual Light Pro-Therapy Face Mask combines these wavelengths to encourage skin renewal. While all skin types can benefit, it’s especially helpful for acne-prone, sensitive, or ageing skin. As a gentle, non-invasive treatment, LED therapy is easy to incorporate into any skincare routine.

Quickfire Round...

LED Face Mask - Morning or Evening? Evening - can you imagine my mornings getting the kids ready for school haha! 
Serum or Moisturiser? I love a good serum!
Lashes or Lips? Lashes!! Eyes are the first thing I notice and they’re a window to the soul. Lashes are like the pretty curtains that need to be looked after 
Eyelash Separator or Eyelash Curler? Lash Separator! 
Vitamin C or Hyaluronic Acid? Ahh that’s like asking me to choose between my children 
Chemical Exfoliant or Physical Scrub? Chemical (obviously!)

At UKLASH, we believe that beauty is more than just skin deep—it’s about confidence, self-care, and feeling empowered at every age and every stage of life. 

Dr. Shireen’s expert insights remind us that taking care of our skin, hair, and overall well-being doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, consistent habits—whether it’s wearing SPF daily, nourishing your body from within, or incorporating game-changing tools like the UKSKIN by UKLASH LED Dual Light Pro-Therapy Face Mask—can make all the difference.

This March, we celebrate International Women’s Day as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women everywhere—both in how we care for ourselves and how we uplift each other. 

Let’s consciously embrace our natural beauty with confidence. Because when we take care of ourselves, we feel healthier, bolder, and stronger in every aspect of our lives.