10 Secret Ways To Make Your Skincare Products Work Better

10 secret ways to make your skincare products work better

Imagine the following scenario: you and your best friend both have the same skin type and use the same cosmetics. However, the outcomes of using the skincare products on either one are rather dissimilar. How in the world is that even a possibility? To be honest, the methods are the most important thing to focus on here. Yes!! You did hear that correctly.

Today, at Foxtale, we are going to reveal a few techniques to use your existing skincare products in a way that they work even better without making you spend an extra penny. If you’re ready to take your skincare game to the next level and don't mind learning a few tips and techniques along the way, keep on scrolling!

10 Tricks to maximize your skincare product’s performance

1. Cleanse your skin right

The importance of properly cleansing one's skin cannot be overstated; it’s a game-changer. If you have ever felt that your face was “squeaky clean” after washing it or if you have been vigorously cleansing your skin with a foaming face wash for either ten seconds or ten minutes, then you are not washing your face properly.

The best way to cleanse your skin is to wash it with a gel-based cleanser instead of a foaming face wash. A gel-based cleanser is a lot more gentle and hydrating on your skin and doesn’t strip the natural oils of your face. A great pick would be our Foxtale Daily Duet Face Wash. It is made with mindful and hydrating ingredients such as Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Red algae extract, etc. Its hydrating formula gives you a deep cleanse and naturally glowing plump skin.

Another thing to incorporate is the ‘60 second rule’ with your face washes. The idea behind the method is as straightforward as the name suggests; rather than giving your face a hasty rinse that doesn't reach all of its crevices, you wash your face for exactly one minute. This allows all the goodness of your face wash to penetrate your skin.

2. Layer your skincare correctly

It doesn’t matter how incredible the quality of the skincare products is, the only way for them to deliver the results they promise is for you to apply them correctly. Your skincare should be used based on their consistency- thinnest to thickest. Here’s the right order to layer your skincare- cleanser, treatment, toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, facial oil, and lastly sunscreen in the daytime.

Some products are most effective when used on the skin that is only slightly damp, but others demand that the skin be completely dry in order to provide its full potential. Here’s a simple way to understand what to use on damp vs dry skin:

  • Oil-based cleansers/Micellar waters- Dry skin
  • Water-based cleansers- Damp skin
  • Active ingredients (AHA, BHA, Retinol, Vitamin C)- Dry skin
  • Hydrating serums- Damp skin
  • Moisturizers- Damp skin
  • Facial oil- Dry skin
  • Sunscreen- Dry skin

3. Exfoliation is key

Standard cleansers clear out pores by removing dirt and oil, but if you really want to see a significant boost in product absorption, you need to exfoliate your skin with the help of enzymes or acids. When dead skin cells are removed with chemical exfoliators like AHA and BHA, any skincare applied to your skin will be absorbed more effectively. It's basically a way to make your skin’s surface more receptive. Look for gentle, lower concentrated chemical exfoliators if you’re just starting out.

4. Switch up your morning & night skincare routine

Some skincare products need to be used at certain times. This is why you should have different skincare routines in the morning and evening. Since cell turnover is at its peak at night, this is the best time to sort of fix/repair your skin's barrier and bring back its glow. Treatments like Retinol, AHA, BHA, sleeping masks, and lip masks should only be used at night. During the day, on the other hand, protecting yourself from the sun, dirt, pollution, and free radicals should be your top priority. Make sure that you use your vitamin C serum and sunscreen every morning as part of your morning skincare routine.

5. Marry the right ingredients

Just like Ryan Renolds and Blake Lively, some things go better together when they are married. Using the right combinations of ingredients will have a big effect on your skin. Putting your sunscreen and antioxidants together is a good place to start.

While a vitamin C serum works to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and acne scars, sunscreen acts as a shield and prevents any further sun damage. Both these when used in the same routine even fight off early signs of aging. If you’re looking to add these two notable ingredients to your skincare, and are tired of searching for the right ones, you are in for a treat. Our Get That Glow Combo consists of an effective and powerful 15% Vitamin C serum along with a creamy, moisturizing sunscreen. Get your hands on it and thank us later!

Other few ingredients that work like magic are Peptides and Antioxidants, Retinol and Hyaluronic acid, Salicylic acid and Niacinamide, Retinol and Niacinamide, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, and Ceramides and Fatty acids.

Also Read: These are the skincare ingredients you shouldn’t layer with each other, EVER

6. Avoid using cotton pads to apply toners

In the olden days, people used to use an astringent toner to remove a few last bits of their makeup with the help of cotton balls/pads. Fast forward to today, toners are all for giving hydration and exfoliating your skin. This completely eliminates the need to use a cotton pad to apply a toner. Cotton pads absorb some of your product and applying such expensive toners with it seems like a total waste! To avoid this, just use your clean hands to do the job. Pour some product onto your hands, warm it up slightly and pat it on your skin very gently.

7. Apply your sunscreen deliberately

If you were to take home just one trick out of all those we’ve listed today, it should be this one. Use sunscreen correctly every single day, and reapply it every 2-3 hours if you’re out in the sun for long hours. Your sunscreen acts as a shield against those harmful UV rays and if you’re not using your sunscreen correctly, all the other skincare is of no use!

Some people suggest applying 1/4th teaspoon worth of sunscreen on your face while others suggest using 2-3 fingers worth of sunscreen for the face & neck. We find it utterly confusing as the finger rule does not apply to different textures of sunscreen. Hence, we found the best method to apply sunscreen. Just take a dollop of sunscreen, dot it all over your face, and then massage it. This will ensure an even and smooth application and that every inch of your face is covered!

8. Lock it all in

Applying a thick and heavy cream on top of your skincare regimen at night is one of the most effective strategies to increase absorption. The best occlusive agents are- thick ointments and lotions containing significant volumes of petrolatum, butter, oils, and waxes. The general rule of thumb to follow here is to lock all your humectants like Hyaluronic acid, Aloe vera and the like with occlusives such as Ceramides, Shea butter, etc.

The idea is to hydrate your skin well first and then create a barrier on top of your skin to seal in the moisture beneath. It is extremely beneficial to avoid TEWL (Transepidermal water loss). This trick is best suggested for people who have skin that is exceedingly dry and inflamed, as well as those who suffer from skin conditions such as eczema. Always make sure your occlusives go as the last step of your night skincare routine so that it has time to soak into the skin and work its magic.

9. Don’t overwhelm your skin

Ever heard of the saying- "Less is more"? With regards to skincare, this is accurate.

The best advice we can give you if you really want your skincare to work is to avoid overdoing it. It's the most effective when you don't overcomplicate your skincare and instead keep it simple. Since there are so many exciting things currently available, it's tempting to feel you should try them all out at the same time. But simplicity might at times be superior.

Avoid using too many exfoliants at once. Use it every other day or at a different time each day. Use vitamin C serum in the morning and retinol at night, for example. Use only those products that your skin needs. Customizing your skincare products to one concern at a time improves their effectiveness.

10. Give your skincare time to work

Our final tip for you to make your skincare work at its best is to give them time. Before you discard your products in the trash, make sure you've given them a fair chance to make a difference in your skin. It takes about 30 days for your skin to regenerate new cells, which is why a month is a benchmark to test a product.

Stop using a product altogether if you notice that it causes breakouts on your skin. But make sure to understand whether you're purging or breaking out due to that product.

It's possible that a month from now, you'll be thanking yourself for the present that you gave yourself in the past.

Dr Jushya Sarin

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Using harsh skincare products: Using harsh products (with SLS, alcohol, and paraben) dehydrates your skin, leading to abnormal sebum production, To prevent this, opt for soothing and hydrating cleansers with Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, D-Panthenol, and Aquaporin Boosters. Lifestyle Choices For Healthy Skin Whether you’re a teen or an adult, these lifestyle choices will give you healthy, clear skin. 1. Balanced diet: To boost your skin’s overall health, load up on healthy fatty acids and antioxidants. 2. Manage your stress effectively: Stress cues the sebaceous glands to overproduce sebum, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. Now in this fast-paced world, dodging stress is kind of inevitable. However, with practices like yoga and meditation, you can manage it more effectively for all-rounded wellness and good skin. 3. Adequate sleep: While you catch some shut-eye, the skin works tirelessly to shed its old, dried cells and regenerate new ones. 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Alleviates inflammation: One of the best anti-inflammatory ingredients, Niacinamide soothes redness and irritation often accompanied by an acne breakout. 2. Reduces the severity of acne: While Niacinamide is not exactly antimicrobial, it ensures a skin microbiome which is less conducive to bacteria growth. 3. Skin barrier repair with Niacinamide: Topical application of Niacinamide strengthens the lipid barrier. A strong and sturdy barrier prevents pollutants, allergens, and other aggressors from irritating the skin, preventing acne breakout/spread. The Benefits Of Niacinamide For Acne-Prone Skin Keep acne at bay with these Niacinamide benefits for acne-prone and oily skin. 1. Sebum Control with Niacinamide: The main culprit behind pesky acne breakouts – overactive sebaceous glands. The overproduction of oil along with dead cells, debris, and other impurities clogs the pores, leading to bumps and inflammation. 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This step ensures better absorption of your Niacinamide serum. For acne-prone skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Acne Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid. 2. Now, apply Niacinamide: To curb oiliness, minimize pores, and tackle different signs of acne, use our 12% Niacinamide Serum. Formulated with double-encapsulated technology, the lightweight formula gives your bright and smooth skin in only 14 days. 3. Follow with moisturizer: Once the serum sinks into your skin, apply a layer of moisturizer. A generous slather of our Oil-Free Moisturizer seals the hydration and Niacinamide treatment into the skin for prolonged periods. It doesn’t feel greasy and clog pores even in the slightest. 4. SPF in the morning, without fail: If you’re using Niacinamide for acne in the morning, remember to apply sunscreen. Active ingredients can make your skin photosensitive and to avoid any flareups you need 2 fingers’ worth of matte sunscreen. Research And Evidence: Does Niacinamide Really Help Acne? According to a research paper published on the National Library of Medicine, 6 out of the 10 subjects observed a substantial reduction in acne with Niacinamide – oral and topical treatments. Additionally, no major side effects were noted. To learn more about the benefits of Niacinamide for acne, refer to this research paper on MDPI. Other Skin Benefits Of Niacinamide Apart from combating acne-related concerns, Niacinamide works on several skin concerns – as seen briefly in the introduction. In this section, we delve deeper into the benefits. 1. Fights dark spots and pigmentation: Topical application of Niacinamide reduces dark spots and pigmentation to administer an even skin tone. The ingredient achieves this by controlling the melanin distribution across skin cells. For best results, pair Niacinamide with Vitamin C in your morning/nighttime skincare routine. 2. Maintains skin hydration: Niacinamide forms a seal on the dermis, preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. Pair with a Hyaluronic Acid-based serum to maximize hydration for the skin. 3. Averts aggressors: The skincare workhorse is also replete with antioxidant properties. It shields your skin against pollutants and other environmental aggressors. Possible Side Effects Of Niacinamide And How To Avoid Them Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated amongst most individuals, a handful of folks may experience- 1. Allergic reactions: First time users may experience rashes, redness, and other types of flareups. Counter this problem by discontinuing the product and speaking to a board-certified dermatologist. 2. Dryness, bumps or uncomfortable tightness: Rarely, a handful of people may experience dryness or an uncomfortable dryness to their skin. This usually happens due to the skin’s unfamiliarity with the active ingredient. To curb these episodes, conduct a patch test beforehand. Start with a low concentration of Niacinamide 2 to 3 times a week. 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November 26, 2024

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Acne is one of the most prevalent skin concerns in the Indian subcontinent. According to statistics, it affects nearly 72% of adolescents and 27% of the adult population. Acne occurs when dead cells, debris, and excess sebum clog the pores on your skin, leading to the appearance of pesky bumps. These plugged pores are further aggravated when bacteria start thriving in them, resulting in redness and inflammation. One must note acne eruptions are not just limited to the face but can also occur below the chin, especially on the chest, arms, and back. While body acne is generally not a serious condition, it can seriously affect one's mental well-being and confidence. If you struggle with body acne, keep reading for a lowdown on topical treatments and cosmetic procedures that can give you clear, radiant skin. What Causes Body Acne? Acne vulgaris occurs due to these 3 main reasons. 1. Excess sebum production: Just like the face, your skin above the waist contains several sebaceous glands that produce oil. This oil or sebum moisturizes your dermis and averts harmful pathogens. However, overproduction of sebum clogs the pores, leading to bumps and eruptions. 2. Clogged pores: Skin with overzealous sebaceous glands is more prone to attract dirt and debris from the immediate surroundings. When this debris along with dead cells and excess sebum clogs the pores, it leads to the formation of whiteheads or blackheads i.e. non-inflammatory acne. 3. Uninhibited growth of bacteria: Plugged pores make way for harmful acne-causing bacteria to inhibit them. Results? Redness and inflammation in and around the eruptions. Common Triggers For Acne Even if your skin type isn’t oily, you might experience stubborn body acne due to the following factors 1. Genetics: You may be genetically predisposed to acne and breakouts. So, if your mother grappled with acne in her teenage years, chances are you will too. 2. Hormonal changes: You might notice inexplicable acne or breakouts around your mensuration cycle. This happens due to hormonal changes in the body which trigger excess sebum production. 3. Stress: Stress leads to the production of hormones called androgens. These hormones directly impact the skin by stimulating its oil glands – leading to more acne breakouts than usual. 4. Oily and comedogenic body care: Sometimes breakouts occur due to the use of oily or non-comedogenic products. To avoid this problem, make sure to read the label of every bath and body product that you plan on purchasing. 5. Diet: Indulging in carbohydrates (like skim milk, chocolates, burgers, and more) makes your skin more prone to pesky breakouts. 6. Excessive perspiration (a.k.a. sweating): When sweat combines with oil, impurities, and dead cells to clog pores, it leads to body acne. To avoid this problem, ensure to maintain optimal personal hygiene at all times. Hop into the shower and wear a fresh pair of clothes after a workout session. 7. Sun exposure: Continued sun exposure also leads to breakouts on the body. You see, the relentless rays from the sun dehydrate the skin. This lack of moisture molecules triggers the sebaceous glands, resulting in more greasiness and acne. What Are The Different Types Of Body Acne? Breakouts, in general, can be categorized into pimples, papules, blackheads, whiteheads, nodules, and cystic acne – based on their severity. Body acne, on the other hand, has 3 broad subcategorizations 1. Acne Cosmetica: This type of body acne occurs due to ill-suited skincare or hair care products. A mild form of breakout – you may observe eruptions around your hairline and the neck. To circumvent this problem, steer clear of shampoos (or conditioners) with silicones and oils, and comedogenic body care offerings. 2. Acne Mechanica: Continued contact with your sporting gear, equipment, or even snug workout wear can trigger episodes of acne mechanica. This is due to dirt, debris, oils, and harmful bacteria getting trapped in a hot and humid environment – resulting in papules or pustules. 3. Sweating: Excessive sweat irritates the skin, aggravating pre-existing bumps. So, if you have acne-prone skin, we recommend observing immaculate personal hygiene. Don’t lounge around in your sweaty workout wear for too long. Hop into the shower and put on a pair of fresh, dry clothes. Prevention For Body Acne Before we delve deeper into the different solutions for body acne, check out some simple tips and tricks that will help prevent them 1. Adhere to a consistent body care routine: The skin is the largest organ of the human body, then why is its care just limited to the face? If you are guilty of this grave oversight, remedy the situation with an infallible body care routine. Use a body wash that exfoliates dead cells to reveal smooth, supple skin. Next, use a generous lather of a hydrating body lotion to lock in the treatment. 2. Load up on fruits and veggies: Experts suggest that low-glycemic foods help reduce acne significantly. If you are susceptible to breakouts, try a balanced diet complete with fresh veggies, fruits, oats, nuts, and more. Steer clear of complex carbohydrates in fried foods, chocolates, and skim milk. 3. Clothing choices: We know that heat, humidity, and physical strain can worsen body acne. This is why we recommend wearing comfortable, breathable fabrics that don’t trap buildup in moist areas – leading to breakouts. 4. Stress: Inarguably, stress and acne go hand-in-hand. To reduce breakouts due to increased cortisol, we recommend practicing meditation and mindfulness. You may also try yoga for the betterment of your physical, emotional, and spiritual health – further resulting in great skin. Professional Treatments For Body Acne In case of severe body acne, you can opt for the below professional procedures. Before you take the plunge, we recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist. 1. Corticosteroid Injection: Used for severe cases of cystic acne, a corticosteroid injection reduces the cyst size, inflammation, and pain significantly. It can be summoned to clear excessive acne scarring. 2. Chemical peels: A chemical peel uses a high-concentration exfoliant (like Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid) to shed dead cells from the dermis. This method helps address adjacent concerns like clogged or open pores, remove excess oil, and of course treat acne. 3. Light Therapy: Light therapy entails directing infrared blue or red light on the acne eruption or lesion. This process is usually combined with topical treatments for best results. Best Home Remedies For Body Acne In case of mild body acne, you can resort to the following home remedies. Effective and convenient with no side-effects, whip these solutions at home to see the results for yourself 1. Baking Soda: The common kitchen ingredient is also a gentle yet effective exfoliant. Mix one part of the soda with two parts of water and apply the paste to the affected areas. Rinse off after 10 mins. 2. Aloe Vera: Scoop out some natural aloe vera and apply it on acne bumps. The miraculous ingredient packed with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helps alleviate body acne instantly. 3. Honey and milk: In a bowl, mix honey and milk in a 1:1 ratio to create a whip. Now apply it on the problem areas for 10 minutes tops and wash it off. For those unaware, milk contains Lactic Acid that gently exfoliates the skin to unclog pores, remove greasiness, and tackle acne. Moreover, honey possesses antibacterial properties that curb inflammation and infection. 4. Tea tree oil: Mix tea tree oil with a carrier (like coconut oil) in a 2:1 ratio. Apply this mixture on individual bumps to inhibit bacterial growth. 5. Apple Cider Vinegar: Dunk a cotton ball in Apple Cider Vinegar and apply it to the individual eruptions. This ingredient’s natural antimicrobial properties help alleviate infection and reduce inflammation. When To Consult A Dermatologist You should consult a dermatologist when your body acne Is cystic or nodular Bleeding or ejecting pus Appears too red or inflamed Won’t go down with the help of OTC medicines or remedies Has been impacting your mental well being Conclusion Acne is a skin concern that is not just confined to the face. Due to the presence of several sebaceous glands (above the waist) – you may experience acne on your arms, neck, back, and chest too. Based on the severity, you may opt for home remedies, topical treatments or professional procedures to bid farewell to body acne and get smooth, supple skin.

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October 9, 2024

How To Treat Acne Without Drying Your Skin

Unlike the common misconception, acne is not unique to oily skin. You can have excessively dry skin yet observe frequent breakouts. So, how do you employ acne-busting formulas daily without making your skin dry or stripped than it already is? Scroll ahead to know What Causes Acne On Dry Skin? Before we find formulas that hit the sweet spot – it's important to understand the reason(s) behind acne on dry skin -- 1. While there may be other triggers, acne occurs on dry skin due to the lack of natural moisturization. Dry skin loses water molecules quickly (and rather dramatically) to become dehydrated. This pressing concern cues the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, resulting in more sebum. And when this sebum, keratin, and dead cells clog pores on your skin, you see the formation of bumps and eventually acne. 2. Using ill-suited products can also lead to acne on dry skin. Using formulas, especially pore-clogging moisturizers often leads to acne. We recommend checking the product label if you are prone to breakouts. What Are Some Ingredients That Work For Acne And Dry Skin Admittedly, acne on dry skin is a tough combination to beat. Here’s a look at ingredients that work best for these distinct concerns. For acne: Bid farewell to acne with Salicylic Acid. The oil-soluble ingredient percolates into the pores to remove excess oil, unclog pores, soothe inflammation, and alleviate acne. The meticulous exfoliant is gentle and doesn’t make the skin feel stripped. For dryness: The best ingredient to revive dry, flaky skin is Hyaluronic Acid. HA is a powerful humectant that binds about X1000 water molecules to the skin, making it feel soft and radiant. Moreover, Hyaluronic Acid counters inflammation or redness due to extreme dryness. What Are The Best Products To Treat Acne On Dry Skin? Foxtale brings you the best products to treat acne on dry skin. Look closely at the string of ingredients that help strike a balance between oil control and hydration 1. Acne Control Face Wash Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid This gentle cleanser removes dirt, grime, and impurities from the pores while ensuring a healthy skin microbiome. Salicylic Acid, the MVP of the blend, soaks excess oil, alleviates inflammation, and buffs away dead cells for acne free. The best part? This Salicylic Acid face wash works wonders without making your skin feel stripped. Why does this product work for acne on dry skin? The efficient formula also contains the hydrating duo of Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide – making it a great fit for dry skin. Humectant Hyaluronic Acid binds water molecules to the skin while Niacinamide preserves this hydration by preventing TEWL. 2. 5% Niacinamide Serum Ingredients: Niacinamide The quick-absorbing formula blots excess sebum and prevents clogged pores while bestowing a radiant matte finish on the skin. Additionally, Niacinamide possesses anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate acne-related redness. Why does this product work for acne on dry skin? Niacinamide helps preserve your skin’s hydration by preventing TEWl or transepidermal water loss. 3. AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid Beat whiteheads, blackheads, and acne with Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. Star ingredients, Glycolic and Salicylic Acid buff away debris, dead cells, and excess sebum to administer healthy, happy skin. Why does this product work for acne on dry skin? Unlike other exfoliating serums, Foxtale’s innovative formula doesn’t make the skin feel stripped. The non-greasy serum leverages the power of HA or Hyaluronic Acid to ensure sustained hydration. Results? Smooth, supple skin without zits. 4. Acne Spot Corrector Gel Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Azelaic Acid, and Niacinamide Don’t you just hate it when a lonesome pimple shows up before an important meeting or date night? Fret not! Foxtale helps you zap that zit in only 12 hours. Our Acne Spot Corrector Gel with Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid sloughs off dead cells to flatten bumps. Moreover, Azelaic Acid kills acne-causing bacteria and soothes inflammation. Why does this product work for acne on dry skin? This gel for removing acne scars carries Niacinamide that prevents TEWL to keep skin hydrated. Having said that, we recommend dabbing this formula on individual bumps or eruptions. 5. Skin Radiance Mask Ingredients: Lactic Acid, Aquaxyl, Brazilian Purple Clay, and Kaolin Clay This decadent whip contains physical and chemical exfoliants that remove excess sebum, dirt, and other impurities from the pores. Results? Gorgeous, radiant skin. Use it weekly to keep whiteheads, blackheads, and acne at bay. Why does this product work for acne on dry skin? Foxtale’s Skin Radiance Mask forms an anti-dehydration shield to bolster the barrier, prevent moisture loss, and preserve skin hydration for 8 hours. What Is The Best Skincare Routine For Acne On Dry Skin? Now that you’re privy to the best formulas, let’s build a daily regimen for dry skin with acne. 1. Start cleansing with the Acne Control Face Wash. Use a coin-sized amount of the formula to scrub your face for 30 seconds. Once through, use cold water to rinse off. This helps seal in maximum hydration for dry skin. 2. Dab your skin dry and follow up with a serum or treatment of choice. Wait for the formula to sink before moving on to the next step. 3. The lack of moisturization leads to acne on dry skin in the first place. So, ensure to slather a generous amount during your morning and nighttime routine. To beat this tough combo, we recommend Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer. It contains Niacinamide that blots excess sebum and prevents clogged pores while bestowing a brightening effect on the skin. Moreover, Hyaluronic Acid and Marine Extracts deliver a big hydration boost to the skin. 4. No routine is complete without sunscreen. Folks with dry, acne-prone skin can try Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen. The lightweight formula regulates sebum production while ensuring long-lasting hydration for the skin. Take two fingers’ worth of the formula and apply it on your face, neck, ears, etc. Reapply every 2 hours.

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