First Time in Sri Lanka: Christell Acne Lab Hosts Pop-Up Event & Panel Discussion on Holistic Acne Prevention at One Galle Face
Christell Luxury Wellness took over the lobby of One Galle Face Mall this past weekend with an immersive and informative Acne Lab Pop-Up Experience, inviting the public to explore acne prevention through a scientific yet personal lens. As part of its commitment to redefining acne care in Sri Lanka, the Christell Acne Lab offered skin analysis using Sri Lanka’s first face scanner, along with customized skincare guidance, expert consultations, product recommendations, and interactive sessions aimed at demystifying acne.
The pop-up event, which ran from Friday through Sunday, drew in thousands of visitors, many of whom engaged in games, educational activities, and conversations with Christell’s expert team of doctors, skincare specialists, and nutritionists. One of the main highlights of the weekend was the panel discussion on acne prevention, held on-site, where experts from various disciplines shared insights into how acne treatment must go beyond skin-deep solutions.
The panel opened with a powerful message from Christell’s nutrition consultant Dr Raaida Wahab Daniel, who spoke about the link between gut health and acne. “Your gut is the boss. It sends signals to the rest of your body, including your skin,” she explained, emphasizing that a diet rich in unprocessed, local ingredients can go a long way in supporting skin health. “We often hear about the Mediterranean diet, but our own food — red kekulu rice, gotukola, parippu, and fish ambul thiyal — can be just as beneficial when prepared in a balanced, wholesome way.” She also encouraged attendees to support collagen production by pairing collagen supplements with vitamin C-rich local foods such as guava and leafy greens.
Resident doctor Dr. Hiruni Poornima continued the discussion by unpacking the science behind the now popular concept of “detoxing.” She explained that our gut, liver, and kidneys work naturally to remove toxins from the body. This process can be supported through good hydration, sleep hygiene, and reduced alcohol consumption. “With today’s modern lifestyle, our bodies are under more stress than ever. Two to three litres of water daily, consistent sleep, and avoiding screens 60 to 90 minutes before bed can make a huge difference,” she said. She also noted that natural supplements like threepala and ashwagandha can be beneficial when used mindfully.
The panel also tackled the emotional and psychological dimensions of acne. Christell’s psychotherapist and wellness specialist Dr Shamindri Bandusena explained how acne and emotional wellbeing are closely intertwined. “Stress increases cortisol levels, which can worsen acne. In turn, acne can lower self-esteem, creating a vicious cycle. Supporting clients to see beyond their skin and rebuild self-worth is a critical part of long-term healing,” she noted.
Speaking on the future of skincare, the Founder of the Christell Acne Lab and specialist in Aestehtic and Regenerative medicine Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne highlighted the importance of combining evolving skincare innovations with time-tested holistic care. “Skincare is fast evolving, but the value of a holistic process that goes to the root cause of acne is timeless,” she said. “It is very rare that doctors from different disciplines come together to treat something that appears so simple, like acne, and that is what makes the Acne Lab unique. True, lasting results come only from an integrated, inside-out approach.”
This pop-up and panel are part of Christell Acne Lab’s ongoing effort to build awareness, foster education, and create supportive communities around skin health. By making skin care more approachable and science-driven, Christell continues to lead the conversation around treating acne not just as a cosmetic concern, but as a whole-body, whole-person issue.
About Christell Luxury Wellness
Founded by Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne, Christell Luxury Wellness is Sri Lanka’s premier aesthetic and skin health clinic. The Christell Acne Lab is a specialized unit within the practice that offers personalized acne and acne scar treatments supported by advanced dermatological science, lifestyle guidance, and emotional wellness. With a multi-disciplinary team and patient-first philosophy, Christell is redefining what it means to care for skin and self in Sri Lanka.
Caption (L-R):
Christell 1 – Nutrition Consultant Dr. Raaida Wahab Daniel, Wellness Consultant Dr. Hiruni Poornima, Psychotherapist & Communication Specialist Dr. Shamindri Bandusena, Christell Acne Lab Head Dr. Pavitra De Seram, Aesthetic and Regenerative Medicine Specialist Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne and Acne Specialist Dr. Haran Robinson
