You cannot replace sunscreen and moisturizer with each other. These two products are the bare minimum necessity when it comes to skincare. They are also recommended together for different purposes.

A moisturizer keeps your skin healthy and prevents moisture loss. On the other hand, sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage that can lead to tanning, dullness, premature ageing and long-term pigmentation.

You can build a routine that works for your skin after understanding the difference between moisturizer and sunscreen. Your skin stays protected, hydrated and becomes resilient when you use moisturizer and sunscreen in the right order, consistently.

What Is Sunscreen ?

Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects the skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can cause skin damage, premature ageing, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreens work by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation to prevent it from penetrating the skin. They are available in different forms, including lotions, creams, sprays, and gels.

What Is Moisturizer ?

Moisturizers are skincare products that help hydrate the skin by preventing water loss. They contain ingredients such as humectants, emollients, and occlusives that work together to trap moisture in the skin. Moisturizers are available in various forms, including creams, lotions, gels, and oils.

When And How To Use Sunscreen ?

Sunscreen should be used daily, regardless of the weather or season. UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, so it's essential to protect your skin even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin areas, including the face, neck, and hands, at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours or after swimming/sweating.

Related Article: Detailed guide on how to use sunscreen

When And How To Use Moisturizer ?

Moisturizers should be used after cleansing and toning the skin, typically in the morning and at night. Apply moisturizer to your face and neck, gently massaging it into your skin. It's essential to to choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and addresses your specific concerns, such as dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity.

What Should I Apply First, Sunscreen or Moisturizer ?

So let’s understand should you use sunscreen before or after moisturizer?

Start by applying a generous layer of moisturizer and follow up with sunscreen. Here's why- 

Sunscreen carries ingredients that shield the skin against harmful UV rays – preventing photoaging, burns, tanning, pigmentation and more. To ensure optimal efficacy, your sunscreen formula should atop the dermis after the moisturizer. 

Difference between moisturizer and sunscreen

How To Choose Sunscreen For Face ?

The skin on the face is delicate and sensitive than the skin on the body, so it's essential to choose a sunscreen specifically designed for the face. Look for a high-protection sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 PA++++ that is oil-free and non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores. 

1. If you have acne-prone skin, choose a matte sunscreen for oily skin that contains niacinamide and UV absorption heroes. This featherlight formula ensures formidable protection while preventing clogged pores. The best part? The gorgeous matte finish this sunscreen bestows upon the skin.  

2. If you have oily skin, choose a lightweight gel sunscreen that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. A gel-based formula controls excess oil, feels breathable on the skin, and provides high sun protection without clogging pores. 

3. Similarly, if you have dry skin type choose rich dewy sunscreen from Foxtale. It contains D-Panthenol and Vitamin E that moisturize and nourish your skin while giving it a dewy effect.  

4. To double down on glow, use Foxtale’s Glow Sunscreen with SPF 50. Infused with new-gen UV filters – Vitamin C and Niacinamide, the formula gives your skin maximum protection from the sun while ensuring a brightening effect.  

How to Choose the Best Face Moisturizer for Your Skin Type ?

Choosing the right moisturizer for your face will maintain healthy skin.

1. If you have dry skin, choose a moisturiser for dry skin that provides intense hydration and also repairs the skin barrier. Foxtale’s Ceramide Moisturizer to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. It gives you long-lasting comfort. It also contains Olive Oil, which is a rich emollient for dry skin and restores softness without feeling heavy. 

This formula works to replenish moisture levels and also protects your skin from pollution and environmental damage. Your skin becomes soft, resilient and less prone to dryness with its regular use.
 
If you want something to use daily, this ceramide moisturizer is suitable for dry skin that needs nourishment and barrier support.

2. If you have oily skin, choose a non-greasy moisturizer for oily skin that controls shine without clogging pores. Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer fits well in this aspect. It is infused with Niacinamide, which regulates excess oil production and minimises the look of pores. It makes your pores less prone to congestion.

It also contains Hyaluronic Acid for hydration without heaviness, and Marine Extracts improve the skin’s moisture levels. They both keep your skin soft and smooth throughout the day. It absorbs quickly because it has a non-sticky texture, making it ideal for daily use before sunscreen or makeup.

If you are looking for oil control and to keep your skin comfortable, the Oil Balancing Moisturizer is a great choice for oily and combination skin.

3. If you have sensitive skin, use a moisturizer which is formulated for sensitive skin. Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream uses ERS technology to nourish, hydrate, and heal your skin.  

Conclusion

So, which is better sunscreen or moisturizer? You basically need both! Daily use of sunscreen and moisturizer is essential for healthy skin. Sunscreen shields from UV rays, moisturizers hydrate and prevent dryness. Choose products based on skin type and concerns for youthful skin.

Related Article: 
1. Guide on proper skincare routine
2. Guide on sunscreen for dry skin
3. Dewy vs Matte sunscreen guide

Has your skin been looking exceptionally dull and beat lately? If yes, you’ve landed on the right page. This blog walks you through two actives, Vitamin C and AHA BHA that help administer an even, bright complexion on topical application – via different pathways. So, which one should you elect for your skincare routine? Scroll ahead to find out. Before we jump to this section, let’s brush up on our basics!

What is Vitamin C? 

One of the most popular active, Vitamin C, is the holy grail of skin brightening. It is a water-soluble ingredient that carries incomparable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

While Vitamin C graces the labels of many cleansers, masks, and moisturizers, its serum version is undeniably the most efficacious. This lightweight, concentrated formula seeps into the deepest layers of your skin and works its magic.

Read More: Detailed guide on vitamin c serum

How does Vitamin C Serum work on skin brightening?

Dark spots, blotches, and hyperpigmentation can make your skin tone a little dull. Luckily, the topical application of Vitamin C serum inhibits melanin production, reducing localized discoloration. All while boosting your skin’s brightness.

Other reasons to love Vitamin C? 

Apart from skin brightening, Vitamin C Serum for face has the following benefits

1. Tackles Signs Of Skin Ageing: The application of Vitamin C serum boosts collagen production, reducing wrinkles, laugh lines, and crow’s feet.

2. Neutralizes Free Radicals: The powerful antioxidant fights free radical damage to your skin. It also shields the skin against UV ray-induced damage.

Want to beat the above concerns? Try Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum! 

If you want to employ a potent Vitamin C Serum to fight skin concerns like dullness, ageing and free radical damage – look no further. Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum brings forth an innovative, high-performing and safe formula to your vanity.

Reasons to try Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum

1. An Emollient-Infused Formula: Unlike a lot of its counterparts, Foxtale’s Vitamin C boasts an emollient-rich formula. It guards your skin against pollutants and other aggressors.

2. Gel Trap Technology: Our unique serum carries a blend of Vitamin C with E! This helps in the better absorption of the formula across the lipid barrier.

Read More: About Foxtale's Vitamin c serum

What is AHA and BHA ?

AHA is the acronym for Alpha Hydroxy Acids, the water-soluble active that gently exfoliates your skin’s outermost layer. On the other hand, BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acids. These chemical exfoliants percolate deep into the pores to slough off dead cells and excess sebum. Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum helps you reap the benefits of both these actives ingredients in a single bottle. Does it get any better than this? We think no.

How does AHA BHA Serum help brighten your complexion?

The serum disintegrates product residue, gunk and pollutants, cueing healthy turnover of skin cells. Results? A brighter, texture free complexion.

Other benefits of AHA BHA Serum

1. Makes your skin firm and plump: AHA (in specific) exfoliates the skin, improves blood circulation, and strengthens collagen production. It helps restore your skin to its youthful appearance while waning fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.

2. Prevents blackheads, whiteheads, and acne: BHA travels deep inside the pores and slows down sebum production. It also prevents the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and reduces  active acne by maintaining a balanced microbiome.

Read More: Detailed guide on ABA BHA 

Want to beat the above concerns? Try Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum! 

Our AHA BHA Exfoliating formula is meticulous yet extremely gentle on the skin. Scroll ahead for all the reasons to grab this offering now.

Hydrating Formula: Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum casts away build-up while deeply hydrating the skin. The formula carries humectant HA that binds water molecules to the skin for its supple, smooth appearance.

Soothing And Nourishing Properties: The inventive formula also carries skincare workhorse Niacinamide that soothes inflammation, redness and other flare-ups. 

Vitamin C Vs AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum – Which one should you pick?

If you’re wondering which serum you should pick between Foxtale’s Vitamin C and AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum, take the following factors into consideration.

1. Primary Concern: If your primary concern is dark spots, patches, and pigmentation, we recommend giving our Vitamin C Serum a shot. On the other hand, if you’re struggling with oily, acne-affected or textured skin, opt for the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum.

2. Skin Type: Want to boost your skin’s brightness while cutting excess shine? Try our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. The serum percolates deep into the pores to slow down sebum production and is the perfect fit for people with oily skin. On the other hand, all skin types can try

3. Different Stages Of Acne: To combat the various stages of acne (whiteheads, blackheads, and active acne), pick our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. The formula unclogs pores and sloughs off the skin, administering a clear complexion. On the other hand, if you are dealing with faint scarring and blemishes after acne – we recommend our Vitamin C Serum for your skincare rotation.

Can I use Vitamin C with AHA and BHA Serum together?

Looking to tackle a series of concerns like skin protection (against UV rays and free radicals), dullness and excessive greasiness? We recommend a combination of Vitamin C and AHA BHA Exfoliating Serums to help realize your skincare goals. You can use the two potent actives in your skincare with caution.

1. Steer Clear Of Over-Exfoliation: Experts recommend exfoliating the skin only 2 to 3 times a week. Over-exfoliation can lead to a damaged barrier, flare-ups and skin irritation.

2. Alternate Between Day And Night: We recommend using the Vitamin C Serum for your morning skincare routine. As we know, Vitamin C packs antioxidant properties that protect your skin from UV rays and free radicals.

3. Exfoliate At Night: Use the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum 2-3 times a week at night to cue healthy regeneration of skin cells. Once the serum absorbs into the skin, follow up with a layer of your favourite moisturizer.

Wondering whether to spring for a serum or a moisturizer in your skincare? Get them both, we say. Serums and moisturizers are skincare staples that serve different purposes in one’s regime – you can’t pit one against the other! 

For those unaware, a face serum carries a heavy concentration of an active ingredient (like Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide and more). Due to its thin consistency and stronger active concentration, it travels deep into the skin to treat a specific concern – ranging from dullness to dehydration to pigmentation. A moisturizer, on the other hand, creates a protective seal for the water content and the active ingredient in question.

Ahead, we delve deeper into the many benefits of serums and moisturizers. We also help you pick the best products for an infallible skincare routine.

 What Is A Face Serum?

As discussed, a face serum targets and addresses a specific skin concern. Due to the lower molecular weight of the active ingredient infused in the formulation, it travels deep into the skin for swift results. So, whether you’re struggling with acne or extreme dryness, a concern-led serum can help restore your skin to its former glory.

A serum is integral for your short and long-term skincare goals. If you wish to transform your skin with a no-frills, daily AM/PM regimen, take a look at the best face serums.

1. Niacinamide Serum by Foxtale

Active Ingredients: Niacinamide 

Skin Types: All

Niacinamide is a skincare workhorse with a myriad of benefits. It is the holy grail of brightening that fights pigmentation and dark spots – by reducing the concentration of melanin. This ideal serum for open pores regulates sebum production for a balanced, healthy microbiome.

More Reasons To Love Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum 

1. Foxtale’s innovative formulation bestows a gorgeous, matte finish to the skin. Use it to create the perfect base for your glam look.

2. Star Ingredient Niacinamide helps uphold the lipid barrier that serves as the first line of defence for your body. A sturdy barrier also prevents TEWL for your skin’s soft, radiant appearance.

3. Foxtale’s Hydrating Serum

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid 

Skin Type: Dry, Normal

If you grapple with dry, flaky skin, Foxtale’s Hydrating Serum should be on your wishlist. It features 6 Hydration Boosters that replenish your skin’s moisture reservoir on application. Use it in your morning/nighttime routine for 75% plumper skin.

More Reasons To Love Our Hydrating Serum

1. The serum ensures 24-hour-long, multi-level moisturization for your skin.

2. Regular use of the Hydrating Serum helps soften fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet, restoring your skin’s youthful appearance.

3. Our Hyaluronic Acid serum also reduces episodes of inflammation, redness, and rashes within 10 minutes of application. It is a must-have for people with dry skin with underlying sensitivities.

3. AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum

Active Ingredients: Salicylic and Glycolic Acids

Skin Types: Oily, Combination

Clogged pores, excessive buildup, acne or small bumps – Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum fights them all. Infused with meticulous yet gentle exfoliants Salicylic and Glycolic Acids, the serum sloughs off dead cells, debris, and excess sebum for a clean, bright surface. The best part? It doesn’t dry out the skin, not even in the slightest.

More Reasons To Love Our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum

1. Hyaluronic Acid in the serum deeply hydrates the skin for its soft, radiant appearance.

2. Niacinamide in this AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum reduces redness, inflammation and rashes, owing to its anti-inflammatory properties.

3. This exfoliating serum also fades dark spots and pigmentation with time.

4. Rapid Spot Reduction Drops 

Active Ingredients: Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide & Oligopeptides 

Skin Types: All

To combat dark spots, patches, and pigmentation, try Foxtale’s Rapid Spot Production Spots. The milky formula targets localized discolouration to ensure an even tone complexion. Moreover, the duo of Niacinamide and Oligopeptides adds a brightening effect.

More Reasons To Love Our Rapid Spot Reduction Drops 

1. The serum boasts Hyaluronic Acid for deep hydration.

2. Sqaulane in the serum shields the skin against free radicals and aggressors.

 What Is A Moisturizer?

.A regular moisturizer boasts three components: Occulsives, Emollients, and Humectants.

Together, these three prevent your skin from getting dry and dehydrated. But that’s not all! Here are some other benefits of a moisturizer. 

1. A potent moisturizer ensures a soothing effect for the skin, reducing episodes of inflammation and redness.

2. It reinforces the lipid barrier, indispensable to the overall health of your skin.

3. Regular moisturisation prevents early signs of skin ageing like fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

Best Moisturizer For Your Skin Type

Regardless of the skin type, moisturizer is a non-negotiable in every skincare routine. Here are some Foxtale Favourites that you must bag STAT.

For Dry Skin Try The Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides 

This rich moisturizer carries Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymers and Olive Oil for multilevel hydration of your skin. It combats dryness and uneven skin texture while upholding the lipid barrier. Additionally, Ceramides and Vitamin E in the formula forms a protective barrier on the skin, shielding it from aggressors and free radicals.

For Oily or Combination Skin, Try Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer

Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Red and Blue-Green algae Extracts, this lightweight moisturizer deeply hydrates the skin. It prevents clogged pores, blackheads, and acne bumps with regular use.

For Sensitive Skin Try The Skin Repair Cream

Skin sensitivity often goes hand-in-hand with an impaired barrier. If you experience out-of-the-blue inflammation, redness or irritation – we recommend Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream for your vanity. It contains Olive Leaf Extracts and ProVitamin B5 that ensure prolonged moisturisation for the dermis.

Verdict: Moisturizers and serums are both essential to an infallible skincare routine. Period. A serum (based on the active ingredient) targets and addresses a specific concern. You can turn to Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, AHAs BHAs for acne, Niacinamide for oil control, Retinol for age reversing and so forth. On the other hand, a moisturizer plays a pivotal role in locking hydration and treatment into the skin. Regular use of a potent moisturizer softens ageing lines, alleviates inflammation, and ensures your skin’s soft, supple appearance.

Your morning/nighttime skincare routine should start with gentle cleansing. Follow it with a serum and your favorite moisturizer. For sun protection, use a dewy or mattifying sunscreen based on your skin type.

Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid grace the labels of several skincare products. From exfoliating masks to acne-control cleaners to brightening serums, you name it. But just how different are these two active ingredients? Moreover, which one should you use to beat acne? Let’s find out.

This blog covers the basics of the two exfoliants and their differences. We also look at the respective benefits of Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid, helping you make an informed decision.

What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic Acid is a form of AHA or Alpa Hydroxy Acid. Due to its small size, Glycolic Acid penetrates the lipid barrier to gently slough off dead cells, debris, and impurities. The meticulous yet gentle exfoliant causes healthy cellular regeneration of skin cells. You can use Glycolic Acid in your skincare if you need to achieve one (or more) of the following results.

1. Less fine lines and wrinkles

2. Firmer, tighter skin

3. Faded dark spots and patches

4. Enhanced skin brightness

What Is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic Acid lies under the umbrella of BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acid. It is an oil-soluble active that possesses both anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Unlike Glycolic Acid which buffs away dirt and debris from the outermost layer of skin – Salicylic Acid percolates deep into the pores to work its magic. Results? Squeaky clean skin. You can use Salicylic Acid in your daily skincare if want one (or more) of the following.

1. Less whiteheads & blackheads

2. Reduced greasiness or shine on the face

3. Alleviated acne-related inflammation or irritation

AHA vs. BHA at a Glance

So, Which One Should I Use For Acne?

Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid are both phenomenal acne remedies. Several anti-acne products carry both exfoliants for optimal results. If we had to pick one though, Salicylic Acid will edge out Glycolic acid – only by a wee bit. Let us understand how.

Salicylic Acid is a Godsend for all stages of inflammatory (papules, pustules, etc) and non-inflammatory acne. The sebum-regulating active dislodges the most stubborn impurities by seeping deep into the pores, keeping blackheads and whiteheads at bay. Moreover, due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Salicylic Acid helps reduce breakouts and bumps.

Best Salicylic Acid And Glycolic Acid Products On Foxtale

Now that you are well-versed in the many benefits of Glycolic acid & Salicylic Acid – we bring you some Foxtale best-sellers featuring the two actives. You can grab these products or build the perfect skincare routine for acne-prone or oily skin. Read at your leisure and add them to your cart.

1. Acne Control Face Wash With Salicylic Acid

Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide

When To Use It: Daily Twice

The acne control cleanser removes dirt, grime, and impurities from the pores while ensuring a balanced microbiome. The Salicylic Acid-infused formula regulates sebum production, unclogs pores, and reduces acne outbreaks. Moreover, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid in the formulation ensures long-lasting hydration for the skin.   

2. Acne Spot Corrector Gel

Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid & Azelaic Acid

When To Use It: For An Acne Emergency!

With Salicylic and Glycolic Acids at the forefront, this SOS treatment visibly shrinks acne in 12 hours. The Acne Spot Corrector gel inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria, unclogs pores, and prevents future acne marks. Moreover, Azelaic Acid in the formulation provides instantaneous relief from acne-related redness or inflammation.

3. Overnight Glow Mask

Key Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid

When To Use It: Once A Week

Want salon-like brightening overnight? Get your hands on this Lactic Acid-infused mask STA. Our Overnight Glow Mask starts working in 30 seconds to dissolve buildup, revealing a bright and smooth surface. Moreover, its retexturizing formula reduces whiteheads, blackheads and acne bumps while bestowing an unparalleled glow to your face.

Related Article: 

1. What Is Salicylic Acid: Benefits, Uses, And Side Effects?
2. Salicylic Acid for Oily Skin: Benefits and How to Use
3. Know What is Glycolic Acid In Skincare
4. Explore the Benefits of Glycolic Acid for Your Skin

Conclusion 

Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid are popular active ingredients in face masks, cleansers and many more skincare products. While Glycolic Acid buffs away dirt & debris from the outermost layer of the skin – Salicylic Acid percolates in the pores to dislodge buildup. The two exfoliants pair exceptionally well and are often used in everyday skincare to combat acne.