No summer starter kit is complete without an SPF 50 Sunscreen. A potent (and broad spectrum) sunscreen formula shields your skin, protecting it against UVA and UVB rays. It keeps episodes of burns, photoaging, pigmentation at bay, ensuring optimal skin health. So, skimping on SPF is out of the question.

In this blog, we learn the ABCs of sunscreen and why it is important for your daily skincare routine. We also help you with the best sunscreen suited to your skin type from Foxtale!

What is sunscreen?

Available in the form of creams, lotions and sticks, a sunscreen shields your skin against the harmful solar UV radiations. Now, essentially all sunscreens can be categorized as follows

1. Physical or Mineral Sunscreen: Physical or mineral sunscreen forms a physical shield on the dermis, reflecting harmful UV radiations. They are formulated with zinc oxide or titanium.

2. Chemical Sunscreen: On the other hand, chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients that percolate into the skin to absorb UV rays. 

To use a borrowed analogy, a physical sunscreen works like a mirror, whereas a chemical sunscreen works like a sponge.

Also Read: Sunscreen Guide 2026

What are the benefits of sunscreen?

There are several benefits of wearing sunscreen daily

1. Prevents Sunburns: A meticulous sunscreen blocks sunburn causing UVB rays. For the unversed, UVB rays have shorter wavelengths (as compared to UVA) and are often responsible for skin cell mutations.

2. Avoids Premature Ageing: Continued exposure to UV rays damages the collagen and elastin in your skin, leading to early signs of ageing. To prevent the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and more, using a sunscreen regularly is imperative.

3. Reduces Hyperpigmentation And Discolouration: Exposure to UV rays can lead to increased melanin synthesis/ distribution in the skin – often leading to discolouration or hyperpigmentation. To ensure a single-tone complexion and beat the aforementioned concerns, sunscreen is a must-have.

4. Diminishes The Risk Of Flare-Ups: Certain skin conditions like dermatitis and rosacea worsen with sun exposure. Enter sunscreen. A lather of this formula reduces the risk of accidental or pre-medicated flare-ups

Why do I need to wear sunscreen while indoors? 

Whether you’re hitting exotic locales or staying home this summer, wearing sunscreen is vital. Contrary to popular belief, UV radiations travel through regular glass and can wreak havoc on your skin.

What is SPF?

You must have come across the term ‘SPF’ in conversations around sunscreen. Well, it is not an arbitrary number on the label of your sun protectant formula but has a specific function.

SPF or Sun Protection Factor, measures the degree of protection your sunscreen ensures against UVB rays. Case in point, SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB radiations, SPF 30 filters out 97%, and SPF 50 obstructs 98% of these harmful radiations.

Also Read: SPF in Makeup

What is the right way to apply sunscreen?

If you wish to maximize the benefits of your sunscreen, follow this guide to apply sunscreen the right way.

1. Apply 20 Minutes Before Stepping Outdoors: Expert studies suggest that sunscreen takes about 20 minutes to absorb into your skin and start working.

2. Correct Amount Of Sunscreen: If you are confused about the amount of sunscreen for a single wear, follow this simple rule. Dispense the formula along the length of your index and middle fingers. Alternatively, you can use a shot glass amount of SPF to cover your face and neck.

3. Reapplication: If you’re outdoors for a prolonged period, reapplication is necessary. We recommend doing so every two hours. If you have a full face of makeup on – dunk a beauty sponge in your SPF and gently dab on your skin.

What is the best sunscreen for my skin type?

Skimping on sunscreen on account of your oily skin? We are allowing you to make up for this grave oversight.

 Regardless of your skin type (oily, dry, combination or sensitive), a sunscreen formula in your rotation is of utmost importance. So scroll ahead for the exemplary collection of SPF from Foxtale.

1. Oily Skin: If your pores expel sebum like it's nobody’s business, try Foxtale’s Matte Sunscreen for oily skin. The formula boasts Niacinamide that curbs oil production and ensures a gorgeous matte finish for your skin. Additionally, it boosts your skin’s brightness by preventing clogged pores. This sunscreen is also a good fit for people with active acne or acne-prone skin.

If you prefer a more breathable option, Foxtale's lightweight Aqua-Gel Sunscreen with SPF 50 is another great pick for oily skin. Gel-based formulas absorb quickly, feel weightless on the skin, and help control excess shine without clogging pores, making them perfect for humid days or layered skincare routines.

2. Dry Skin: Struggle with dry, flaky skin? Make BFFs with this Dewy Sunscreen for dry skin with SPF 70. Its unique formula deeply nourishes and hydrates your skin. Moreover, the three types of Vitamins bolster overall skin health.

3. Combination Skin: Combination skin typically features an oily T-zone and dry patches elsewhere, making it tricky to find the right sunscreen. To balance these concerns, try Foxtale’s Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50. This lightweight fluid formula offers broad-spectrum protection while Niacinamide helps regulate excess oil and refine the look of pores. The breathable tint seamlessly evens out your skin tone, blurring imperfections and doubling as a light makeup base. Plus, its non-greasy texture blends effortlessly without leaving a white cast, giving your skin a smooth, naturally radiant finish.

Tips to choose the right sunscreen

Now that you know why sunscreen is important, here are a few quick tips to help you pick the right one for your routine:

1. Always Choose Broad Spectrum Protection:
A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. While UVB rays cause sunburn, UVA rays penetrate deeper and accelerate skin ageing.

2. Pick SPF 50 Or Above:
Dermatologists recommend choosing a sunscreen with at least SPF 50 for everyday protection. If you spend long hours outdoors, opting for SPF 50 or higher ensures stronger protection.

3. Look For In-Vivo Tested Formulas:
When a sunscreen is in-vivo tested, it means its SPF protection has been verified on real human skin under controlled conditions rather than just in a lab setting. This helps ensure that the SPF value mentioned on the label reflects how the sunscreen performs in real-life usage.

4. Choose Sunscreens With New-Generation UV Filters:
Modern sunscreens often use new-generation UV filters that are more photostable and provide stronger protection against a wider spectrum of UV rays. These advanced filters help maintain consistent protection under sun exposure while also ensuring lightweight, comfortable formulas that blend easily into the skin.

5. Match It To Your Skin Type:
Your sunscreen should complement your skin type. Matte or gel formulas work best for oily skin, hydrating sunscreens are ideal for dry skin, and lightweight fluid sunscreens are perfect for combination skin.

6. Check The Texture:
A sunscreen that feels comfortable on your skin is more likely to be used consistently. Lightweight, blendable formulas that leave no white cast are ideal for everyday use.

Also Read: Common Myths About Sunscreen

Conclusion

Sunscreen is the cornerstone of any effective skincare routine. From preventing sunburn and premature ageing to protecting your skin from pigmentation and environmental damage, applying SPF daily goes a long way in maintaining healthy skin. The key is choosing a formula that suits your skin type and lifestyle. With the right sunscreen in your routine, protecting your skin can be effortless, comfortable, and effective every single day.

 A no-nonsense CTM or an elaborate Korean skincare – cleansing is the first and often the most overlooked step in a routine. Using a cleanser gently removes dirt, impurities and pollutants from the pores for a balanced microbiome. Additionally, with the appropriate product, this process can address specific skin concerns like acne, dehydration and dullness.

In this blog, we walk our readers through the many benefits of using a cleanser regularly. Additionally, we help you pick the right product for your skin type. So, keep scrolling to make an informed decision.

What are the benefits of using a face cleanser regularly?

Using a cleanser regularly extends a flurry of benefits to your skin. Some of which are listed below- 

1. It removes dirt, grime, and gunk: Cleansing removes the deep-seated traces of dust, pollutants, and gunk from the pores – ensuring a clean, bright surface. Cleansing your face at night also cues healthy cellular regeneration for better skin elasticity and texture.

2. Prevents clogged pores: Cleansing dislodges clogged pores that may cause whiteheads, blackheads or acne.

3. Ensures skin hydration: A humectant-infused cleanser replenishes your skin’s moisture content, leading to its soft, supple appearance. P.S. For those unaware, humectants like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and many more bind water molecules to your skin for long-lasting hydration.

4. Better blood circulation: Cleansing your face daily improves blood circulation – initiating healthy cellular regeneration and improving collagen production. This leads to your skin looking firm, supple, and radiant over time.

5. Facilitates absorption of your skin products: As touched upon briefly, a potent cleanser dislodges excess sebum, dirt and impurities from your skin. This helps in better absorption of your target treatment/serum, which adds to its efficacy.

 How to use a face cleanser correctly?

While there are no hard and fast rules for using a face cleanser, these tips will help you reap its maximum benefits! 

1. Use a coin-sized amount of your face cleanser and gently massage it into your skin. Use upward circular motions to scrub your face for about30 seconds.

2. Remember to use a light hand while cleansing your face. Vigorous rubbing can strain your skin, leading to inflammation, redness, and rashes.

3. Overwashing can strip your skin, causing uncomfortable dryness or tightness. Stick to using your face cleanser twice a day – in your morning and nighttime skincare routine.

4. Use cold water to rinse your face. Cold water makes your skin look firm while reducing the appearance of pesky pores.

 How to pick the right cleanser for your skin type? 

We have learnt that the right cleanser wields immense power in skincare. So why should you pick a random product from the supermarket aisle? Ahead, we help you with the best cleaner based on your skin type.

To make the right choice, you must have a clear understanding of your skin type and its underlying concerns. In case of any confusion, please refer to your dermatologist.

1. Oily skin: If your skin expels oil like it's nobody's business, try Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash with Salicylic Acid. This cleanser gently sloughs off dead cells, debris and excess sebum from the pores, without overdrying your skin. The innovative formula also carries Hyaluronic Acid for long-lasting hydration for your skin.

2. Dry or sensitive skin: Grappling with dry, flaky or itchy skin? Try Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid. The formula binds water molecules to the skin for sustained hydration with Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extracts. Furthermore, the face hydrating cleanser offsets inflammation, redness and rashes – making it a perfect fit for folks with sensitive skin.

3. Combination skin: It is tricky to care for combination skin types as you need to strike a balance between hydration and oil control. Luckily, Foxtale’s Purify and Glow Mask + Cleanser ticks both boxes. The formulation contains French Pink and Kaolin Clays that help regulate sebum for a balanced microbiome. Moreover, Sodium PCA ensures long-lasting hydration for the skin.

 FAQs

1. Can I use cleanser for oily skin?

Ans) Yes. Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash has been formulated for oily/acne-prone skin. Salicylic Acid at the heart of this formulation cuts excess oil, grime, and impurities for a smooth, clean surface. The facial cleanser also carries Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to uphold the health of your lipid barrier.

2. How should I check my skin type?”

Ans) You can follow these steps to determine your skin type-

If your skin appears shiny with open pores, it is most likely oily.
If your skin feels itchy or stretchy and looks dull, it is most likely dry.
If your T-zone is always greasy as opposed to the rest of your skin, it is probably combination.

 3. Can I leave a cleanser on my skin overnight?

Ans) No. Leaving a cleanser overnight on your skin can strip off the natural oils leading to dryness and uncomfortable tightness.

4. Can I wash my face only with water?

Ans) Water alone is unable to dislodge the deep-seated impurities, pollutants, and traces of makeup or SPF from the pores. This is why we recommend buying a potent cleanser suited to your skin type. Try Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash for dry and sensitive skin, Foxtale Acne Control Face Wash for oily skin and our Purify & Glow Mask + Cleanser for combination skin.

5. Can I skip facial cleanser from my skincare routine?

Ans) No. We recommend using a cleanser in your morning and nighttime skincare routine. Facial cleansers help remove dust, grime, and impurities from your pores, ensuring a healthy microbiome. 

6. Can I skip my moisturizer after cleansing?

Ans) We recommend using a moisturizer after cleansing your face. A potent moisturizer forms a protective barrier on the dermis, preventing TEWL. It also seals your active-infused serums or treatments, hence boosting their efficacy. 

7. What is a simple yet effective skincare routine?

•  Cleanse your skin twice a day
•  Dab a concern-led serum after your skin is dry
•  Follow up with a moisturizer
•  Wear SPF without fail

Additionally, we also recommend these weekly rituals 

• Mask twice a week to boost your skin’s latent glow
• Exfoliate thrice a week for healthy cellular regeneration

From your neighbourhood pharmacies to the aisles of coveted retail stores – face serums have taken over shelves galore. And whether you are a skincare sleuth or far from it, you ought to have mulled over adding a serum to your regular cleanse-moisturize-sunscreen ritual (at some point). To help you make an informed decision, here’s a detailed guide to the best face serums in India. But before we jump to the list, let’s get our basics right.

 What are Face Serums? 

Face serums are active-infused formulations that target and address a flurry of skin concerns. From ageing to hyperpigmentation to acne, these result-oriented formulations elevate your skincare by ensuring time-bound result

 Why are Face Serums So Effective? 

The efficacy of face serums is due to the following factors.

1. They are lightweight, thin, and quick-absorbing: The thin, water-like consistency of face serums (as opposed to your cleanser or moisturiser) allows them to penetrate deep into the skin and work magic.

2. High concentration of active ingredients: Face serums are power-packed with actives that work on specific skin concerns. For example, salicylic acid for acne, hyaluronic acid for dryness, and Vitamin C for dark spots and pigmentation — above ingredients offer long-lasting and unparalleled results.

 How Should You Pick a Face Serum ? 

To pick the right face serum, you must have an unerring understanding of your skin type and its underlying concerns. 

 How to Apply Your Face Serum?

1. Cleanse: To ensure the effectiveness of your face serum, start by gently cleansing your face. Take a pea-sized amount of your pH-balancing face wash to help remove excessive oil, grime, and pollutants from the pores. Use a paper towel or a microfiber to pat your skin dry.

2. Treat: Once your skin is dry, take 2 to 3 pumps of your face serum and massage it into your skin. You may use a face tool like Gua Sha or a face roller to ensure better absorption of the formula.

3. Moisturise: No matter the season, skimping on moisturiser is out of the question. The whip boasts a healthy mix of emollients and hydrators that seal adequate water content into your skin. A good moisturizer strengthens the skin so that active ingredients in serums don't sensitise the skin and irritate i

4. SPF: Finish off with a dollop of sunscreen to avoid skin damage due to detrimental UVA and UVB rays. Foxtale’s Matte Sunscreen is the perfect bet to conceal the unwarranted shine and create a smooth base for the rest of your makeup.

 Best Face Serums for Your Concerns

Successfully identified your underlying skin concern(s)? It’s time to add a high-performing serum to your AM/PM regime.

Concern: Skin Dryness and Dehydration

Extreme dryness or dehydration is a prevalent concern,  often accompanied by flakiness, itchiness and dullness of the skin. These recurring episodes can also give way to early signs of ageing (re: fine lines, wrinkles) and a damaged acid mantle.

Get your hands on Foxtale’s Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid!

 The hero ingredient of the blend (HA) is a powerful humectant that binds water molecules to the skin, making it look plump and smooth. The serum also softens signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful radiance that makeup cannot achieve! 

Concerns: Dark Spots and Pigmentation

Dark spots and pigmentation can occur due to sun exposure, genetics, hormonal changes and more. They can make your complexion look uneven and dull.

Shop Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum!

Vitamin C fades the appearance of dark spots and patches by curbing excessive melanin production. Moreover, the powerful antioxidant amplifies collagen production in your skin for its youthful appearance. The best part? Price of this Vitamin C serum is only INR 595 – extremely affordable.

Concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, laugh lines, sagging skin

Early signs of skin ageing manifest in the form of wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin. Extreme stress, sleeping patterns, continued exposure to the sun, pollutants and other aggressors can all be possible factors taking a toll on your skin’s health.

Grab Foxtale’s Retinol Night Serum

Formulated with Encapsulated Retinol, the serum ensures healthy cellular turnover, making your skin smooth and plump. The skincare workhorse also unclogs pores and sheds dead cells to prevent acne outbreaks, whiteheads, and blackheads.

Concerns: Acne and Textured skin 

Unregulated sebaceous glands, exposure to environmental aggressors and use of chemical products lead to a band of dead cells on your skin. Results? An uneven skin texture, blotchy complexion, massive pores, and new acne eruptions or bumps.

Bag Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum

This lightweight serum dislodges dead cells overnight to reveal a brighter, clearer complexion sitting underneath. Hyaluronic acid in the blend also ensures deep hydration and nourishment for the skin.

Concerns: Dullness, Skin Congestion, Excessive Greasiness

If you’re an oily skin gal, chances are that your complexion looks cloudy. This can be attributed to the open pores, extreme skin congestion, and the layer of dead cells atop the dermis. 

Make BFFs with Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum

Niacinamide at the heart of this blend boosts skin brightness by ceasing the transfer of melanin pigment to the skin cells. The formulation also doubles as a primer to blur pores and imperfections for a smooth, matte base. It is the perfect precursor to your makeup look for a special occasion or outing. 

 Serums? Shop or Swerve? 

A face serum is not a byproduct of a beauty fad but a result-based formulation that helps you throttle relevant skin concerns. From acne to dullness to fine lines or wrinkles – if you wish to improve your skin’s overall health with just your AM/PM regimen, a face serum is non-negotiable.

 FAQs

1. Can I use face serums everyday?

Yes, you can use face serums everyday.

2. What is the function of a face serum?

A face serum boasts smaller molecules of active ingredients that treat specific skin concerns. From acne to pigmentation to dullness, the water-like consistency of this formula ensures better absorption and so, better efficacy.

3. Can I use my face serum without a moisturiser?

We recommend applying a dollop of Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturiser atop your concern-based face serum. A moisturiser seals ample water molecules into your skin, adding to the potency of your treatment.

4. What is the best face serum for glowing skin?

If you want gorgeous, glowing skin, might we suggest adding Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum to your skincare rotation? The powerful elixir diminishes the appearance of dark spots and patches for boosted radiance.

5. How to use face serum?

Dab 2 to 3 pumps of your concern-based face serum on a clean face. Remember not to rub your skin vigorously, as it may lead to irritation or inflammation. Once the serum has been completely absorbed, apply your moisturiser and SPF.

A face serum is super-charged with an active ingredient like Hyaluronic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide or more. Due to its watery-consistency, this formulation seeps deep into the skin to treat a specific concern for swift results. Whether you grapple with dehydrated skin or acne, a suitable serum in your AM/PM regimen can thwart any concern. 

So, if you wish to make the most of your skincare, add a concern-specific serum to your pre-existing routine. To help you in this endeavour, we are bringing you a list of the best face serums in India. We also help you with the correct way to use a face serum for best results.’

How to apply face serum?

Follow this step-by-step guide to apply your face serum and reach your skincare goals.

1. Cleansing First:  Before whipping out your concern-specific serum, it is integral to cleanse your skin. Use a potent face wash to remove dirt, debris, and pollutants from the pores, ensuring fresh, rejuvenated skin. This step also facilitates the better absorption of your serum, further boosting its efficacy. 

•  If your skin type is oily, try Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash. The formula carries Salicylic Acid that buffs away excess oil, dust and grime from the pores.
• For dry and sensitive skin, try our Hydrating Face Wash. It carries Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extracts that ensure long-lasting hydration for the skin. Moreover, the gentle cleanser offsets episodes of inflammation, redness and irritation.
• If your skin type is combination, get your hands on the Purify & Glow Cleanser + Mask. The multitasker carries French Pink and Kaolin Clays that soak up the excess sebum from your pores. Additionally, the cleanser also boasts Sodium PCA for sustained hydration and a more balanced microbiome.

2. Treat Next: Once your skin is dry, take 2-3 pumps of your serum and dab it on your face. Avoid rubbing the formula, as it may strain your skin. Be extremely cautious while applying the serum around your eyes and mouth. You may use a Gua-sha to gently massage the formula into your skin. 

Tip: Remember that serums boast high concentrations of active ingredients. You only need 2 to 3 pumps of the formula to ensure the best results for your skin.

3. Moisturize Without Fail: Once the serum absorbs in your skin, apply a generous dollop of moisturizer on top. A potent moisturizer carries a blend of humectants, emollients, and occlusives that lock actives and adequate hydration into the skin.

• If your skin type is oily or combination, we recommend Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer. The lightweight formula doesn’t clog pores and helps replenish your skin’s moisture reservoir.
• Struggle with dry skin? Get your mitts on our Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramide. The unique formula carries Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolhymers and Olive oil that hydrate the skin. Moreover, the featherlight whip also repairs/upholds your skin’s lipid barrier.
• Folks with sensitive skin should try Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream. The unique formula uses ERS (Enhance-Replenish-Seal) technology to deeply hydrate and heal your skin.

4. SPF For All Seasons: Skipping sunscreen is out of the question – even more so while administering serums. The use of certain active ingredients like AHA, BHA, Retinol and more can make your skin prone to sun-induced damage. Use Foxtale’s Matte Finish Sunscreen for oily or combination skin and Dewy Sunscreen for dry or sensitive skin.

 Best Serums From Foxtale 

Your search for the best face serums ends here. Based on your underlying skin concerns, here’s what you need to pick-

1. For dry skin pick the Hydrating Serum

Active Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid

The humectant Hyaluronic Acid in this formulation binds water molecules to the skin. Topical application of the serum makes your skin plump, softens early signs of ageing, and reduces inflammation and irritation.

2. For oily skin with massive pores pick Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum

Active Ingredient: Niacinamide

This innovative formula by Foxtale blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores while ensuring a gorgeous matte finish to the skin. 

3. For fighting dark spots and pigmentation

Active Ingredient: Vitamin C 

Our emollient-rich Vitamin C reduces the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation by inhibiting melanin synthesis. But that’s not all. Regular use of Vitamin C Serum bolsters collagen production – helping improve your skin’s elasticity and texture. Additionally, our Vitamin C is the best face serum for shielding the skin against UV rays and menacing pollutants.

4. For fighting early signs of ageing

Active Ingredient: Retinol 

Our retinol face serum fades wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet and more with time. Foxtale’s one-of-a-kind formula carries Encapsulated Retinol that breaks open in the deepest layer of the skin. Results? Smoother and plumper skin with no purging.

Conclusion: A concern-based serum elevates your skincare routine. Based on the active ingredient it carries, this formula combats a specific skin concern. However, to make the most of your serum, you must know how to apply it correctly. 

• Start by gently cleansing your face for about 30 seconds.
•  Once your skin is dry, dab 2 to 3 pumps of your favourite serum on your face. Since a serum is supercharged with an active ingredient –  never go overboard with the quantity!
• After the serum completely absorbs into your skin, follow up with your moisturiser and sunscreen.

 FAQs 

1. Can I use face serum daily?

Yes, you can. If you are new to actives, start by using the serum thrice a week. This good practice will help your skin get accustomed to the formulation.

2. What should I apply first – serum or moisturiser?

Apply your serum first! Serums are supercharged with actives and percolate deep into the skin to address a series of concerns. A layer of moisturiser on the serum helps seal in the actives and ample water content for better results.

3. How should I pick a face serum for myself?

In order to pick a face serum, you must have an understanding of your skin type and its underlying concerns.

4. What is the best serum for acne or acne-prone skin?

Try Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum to combat and prevent acne. This lightweight formulation sloughs off dead cells, debris, and oil from the pores – revealing a smooth surface underneath.