Body Acne – Causes, Types, And Treatments

Body Acne – Causes, Types, And Treatments

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. 

Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her k...

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Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her k...

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Summer is here – which means strolls on the beach, exploring exotic locales, and more fun activities. However, the one downside of the warm weather and the blazing sun is tanning. In simplest terms, tanning is the darkening of your skin due to constant exposure to the sun. You see – your body picks on the potential photodamage to the skin and cues more melanin production to absorb the UV rays. Results? Discoloration and an uneven, patchy complexion. Luckily, tanning is not an untreatable concern. So, if your skin is prone to tanning, scroll ahead for 3 tested ways to remove it effectively. Method 1: Exfoliation For Removing Tanning How does it work: The first tried-and-tested method to detan is exfoliation. If you don’t know how it works – exfoliation buffs away the dead cells with excess melanin from the skin. Moreover, this process encourages healthy cellular turnover, unveiling the bright, even surface sitting underneath. How to do it: Use a store-bought or a DIY scrub (with honey and sugar). With a light hand apply the formula on the affected areas and wash it off after 5 to 7 minutes. Since over-exfoliation zaps your skin’s moisture, leading to dehydration and inflammation – we recommend using the scrub 2 to 3 times weekly. Expert tips: Avoid exfoliating the sensitive areas which are susceptible to flare-ups. Also, don’t skimp on your moisturizer after exfoliation. This skincare staple offsets any accidental flareups or inflammation on the skin. Method 2: Home remedies How does it work: Home remedies have been found extremely effective in removing tans. Infused with natural brightening agents, these DIY recipes minimize the risk of flare-ups. Here are the most common scrubs you can whip up at home- 1. Tomato and lemon mask Rich in lycopene, tomatoes help wane pigmentation due to tanning. Furthermore, lemon’s bleaching properties double down on efforts for an even skin tone. 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Lactic Acid in yogurt exfoliates the skin’s outermost layer to remove tan – uncloaking a bright, even-tone surface underneath. Turmeric further brightens your complexion by inhibiting melanin synthesis in the skin cells. This pack also has nourishing properties that prevent dryness from sun exposure. How to use: Take 2 to 3 spoons of yogurt and add a pinch of turmeric to it. Mix it well and apply this concoct on the affected areas. Wash thoroughly after 15 to 20 minutes Although home remedies are safe for most skin types, we still recommend conducting a patch test first. Method 3: Professional Treatments If you have stubborn tanning, we recommend opting for a professional treatment. Here are the most popular ones available at your nearest dermatologist. 1. Chemical peels: This method exfoliates your skin’s outermost layer with a high concentration of Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid – fading tan in the process. 2. 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January 27, 2025

How Peptides And Niacinamide Boost Your Skin’s Moisture Levels

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Since Niacinamide forms a protective seal for moisture retention, we recommend applying it towards the end. 3. Seal: Now, use a potent moisturizer to seal hydration and treatment into your skin. To banish dry and rough patches, use a thick, cream-based formula with Hyaluronic Acid. Although Niacinamide is dubbed for all skin types, layering a soothing moisturizer helps offset any accidental inflammation or flareups. 4. SPF: Sunscreen is non-negotiable in your skincare routine. A broad-spectrum sunscreen shields your skin against harmful UV rays to prevent burns, tanning, pigmentation, and photoaging. Since using active ingredients (like Niacinamide) might make your skin photosensitive, swear by your sunscreen tube at all times. Additionally, don protective clothing as continued sun exposure criminally dehydrates the skin. Other Benefits Of Niacinamide And Peptides Together Besides improving hydration, Peptides and Niacinamide extend several other benefits to the skin- 1. Age-reversing: Topical application of Niacinamide and Peptides boost Collagen production in the skin cells to soften fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and laugh creases. Use this pair of ingredients to ensure firm, supple skin with time. 2. Improved skin texture: Employ Peptides and Niacinamide daily to improve your skin texture. As we know, the smaller amino acid chains a.k.a. Peptides amp up Collagen and Elastin production in the skin cells. This adds to your dermis’ elasticity and suppleness. Additionally, skincare workhorse Niacinamide minimizes pores and smoothens skin by promoting cellular renewal. 3. Anti-inflammatory properties: Topical application of Peptides and Niacinamide soothes redness, inflammation, and other flare-ups. So, if you have sensitive skin, this combination should be on your radar. 4. 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January 9, 2025

What Is Salicylic Acid: Benefits, Uses, And Side Effects?

If you are scouring the market for a sureshot acne remedy or something to treat general skin oiliness – Salicylic Acid is the ingredient for you. A derivative of Beta Hydroxy Acid (a.k.a.), Salicylic Acid is obtained from the bark of willow trees. The active ingredient seeps deep into the pores to dissolve dead cells and unclog the pores. Moreover, the topical application of Salicylic Acid helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, resulting in clear, radiant skin – not a pimple in sight. This blog focuses on many such benefits of Salicylic Acid, it uses, and the side effects (if any). So, keep reading - The Many Uses Of Salicylic Acid Salicylic Acid is best known for its acne control prowess. But the active ingredient is far from a single trick pony. Here are some concerns you can treat with Salicylic Acid 1. Salicylic Acid For Acne As discussed earlier, Salicylic Acid is acne’s biggest nemesis. It blots excess oil, dissolves buildup, and unclogs pores to reduce/prevent acne. The skincare workhorse reduces inflammation and redness that goes hand-in-hand with pimples. Additionally, you can employ Salicylic Acid to combat non-inflammatory acne like whiteheads and blackheads. 2. Salicylic Acid For Exfoliation Regular exfoliation is indispensable to your skin health. The process removes dead cells, debris, and dirt to reveal a smooth, radiant surface sitting underneath. Skincare acid Salicylic Acid aids exfoliation, helping shed buildup. Results? Improved skin texture and tone. 3. Salicylic Acid For Dandruff A lesser-known fact about Salicylic Acid – it’s a neat way to bid farewell to dandruff. The exfoliant buffs away the scalp’s outermost layer to reduce flakiness. It also regulates sebum production and soothes inflammation to ensure a healthy microbiome for your scalp. 4. Salicylic Acid for Warts And Corns Grappling with warts or corns? Summon Salicylic Acid to your rescue. The exfoliant breaks the thick top layer containing the wart or corn, ensuring its easy removal. 5. Salicylic Acid For Psoriasis Treatment Salicylic Acid also helps alleviate episodes of Psoriasis. The ingredient dissolves the scales while soothing inflammation – providing relief to your skin. Other Benefits Of Salicylic Acid Apart from the above uses, you can use Salicylic Acid (in the serum or moisturizer form) and reap its following benefits - 1. Unclogs pores: Salicylic Acid percolates deep into the pores to expel gunk, dead cells, and excess sebum. Use it to unclog pores, minimize their appearance, and prevent whiteheads or blackheads. 2. Reduces oiliness: Due to its oil-soluble properties, Salicylic Acid effectively cuts excess shine from the face. It is a must-have with folks with oily and combination skin. 3. Soothes inflammation: Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, Salicylic Acid reduces redness and inflammation often accompanied with acne. Use it topically and see the results for yourself. 4. Improves skin texture: Exfoliants like Salicylic Acid help shed dead cells to reveal a smoother, brighter surface sitting underneath. The active ingredient is also the perfect remedy for rough, flaky patches on the skin. 5. Prevents future breakouts: Salicylic Acid regulates sebum production, unclogs pores, and dissolves dead cells, preventing future breakouts. If you struggle with oily or acne-prone skin, this ingredient is a must-have for your vanity. Side Effects Of Salicylic Acid Salicylic Acid is safe for most skin types and pairs exceptionally with other active ingredients like Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and more. Having said that, some individuals may experience side effects like 1. Skin irritation: Folks with dry or sensitive skin may observe flakiness, redness, and peeling. 2. Burning Sensation: If your skin is damaged or impaired, topical application of Salicylic Acid may lead to a burning or stinging sensation. Discontinue the product if this sensation persists for a prolonged period. 3. Allergic Reaction: Allergic reaction to Salicylic Acid may manifest in the form of severe redness, itching and burning. We recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist if these symptoms refuse to abate. 4. Impaired barrier: Overuse of Salicylic Acid can hamper the lipid barrier leading to extreme dryness, flakiness, breakouts, inflammation and more. 5. Sun sensitivity: Using active ingredients like Salicylic Acid can make your skin photosensitive, leading to concerns like burns, rashes, and pigmentation. How To Use Salicylic Acid Safely? To help minimize the side effects of Salicylic Acid while reaping its maximum benefits, here are a few steps that you can follow - 1. Choose the right product: Salicylic Acid is found in cleansers, serums, and spot treatments. Pick a product based on the type and severity of your skin concern. Case in point, if you have oily skin that is prone to occasional breakouts, try using a face wash with Salicylic Acid twice daily. For stubborn zits use a Salicylic Acid spot treatment and so forth. 2. Start with a low concentration: If your skin type is dry or sensitive, start with a low concentration of Salicylic Acid to minimize the risk of flare-ups. We recommend using anywhere between 0.5% to 2%. 3. Pair with moisturizer: To seal this Salicylic Acid into the skin,ensure to apply a generous layer of moisturizer. Results? Better, faster results. Moreover, a moisturizing formula prevents dryness and inflammation that may be caused due to Salicylic Acid. 4. Avoid mixing with specific active ingredients: Never layer Salicylic Acid with Retinol and other exfoliants. An overload of these actives may lead to inexplicable episodes of inflammation or irritation. 5. Always Use Sunscreen: Since Salicylic Acid can lead to photosensitivity, use a generous amount of sunscreen before stepping outdoors. This little step in your routine also shields the new layer of skin cells from the sun’s wrath. Who Should Avoid Using Salicylic Acid? People who should avoid Salicylic Acid in their routine at all costs - Individuals with extremely dry or sensitive skin. Expecting mothers Folks prone to allergic reaction Conclusion Salicylic Acid is not a single trick pony. You can use the active ingredient for acne, inflammation, dandruff, psoriasis, warts, corn and more. Available in cleansers, serums, and spot treatments – your pick of treatment should depend on the severity of the problem.

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January 7, 2025

What Is Ageing? 5 Proven Tips For A Youthful Glow

Ageing is a natural process that manifests itself in different ways vis-a-vis the skin. Some individuals notice fine lines on their forehead, around the eyes and mouth. While some others observe less elasticity and increased skin sagginess that takes a toll on the appearance (as well as a person’s mental well-being). Ageing is inevitable, but the right products and a well-defined skincare can help you age more gracefully. So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading for 5 steps to unveil your skin’s youthful and radiant glow. Before we get to the cheatsheet, let’s understand ageing in more depth What Is Skin Ageing? Collagen and Elastin are two proteins indispensable to the skin. They give your skin structure, add to its elasticity, and make it appear taut. As you age, the production of Collagen and Elastin in the skin cells reduces considerably – resulting in ageing skin. Moreover, the skin’s renewal and water-retaining capabilities dwindle with time. Results? Dull, loose, and dry skin dermis. Other Factors That Contribute To Ageing Apart from reduced Collagen, Elastin, and moisture in the dermis – these extrinsic factors lead to ageing- 1. Your lifestyle choices: Smoking, erratic sleep patterns, excessive drinking often cause premature signs of ageing. For those unaware, these detrimental habits hamper blood circulation to the skin and disintegrate Collagen, Elastin, and other crucial proteins in the skin cells. 2. UV rays: We know that continued exposure to UV rays accelerates skin ageing. Therefore, a potent broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable in your skincare. 3. Pollutants: Exposure to free radicals makes your skin age. This happens due to oxidative damage that accelerates skin ageing and inflammation. Factors To Make Your Skin Look Youthful And Radiant To fight early signs of ageing and make your skin look youthful, here are 5 expert-approved steps you should follow- 1. Wear SPF daily: As discussed earlier, exposure to UV rays is a big culprit of skin ageing. Therefore, to prevent early signs of wrinkles, pigmentation, age spot – we recommend using a powerful SPF daily. Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen to fight UVA and UVB rays. Use 2 fingers’ worth of the formula in your AM routine and reapply every two hours. To double down on sun protection, use hats, caps, and scarves especially between 10 am to 4 pm. 2. Adopt an infallible skincare: To defer signs of ageing like fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet – use an age-reversing skincare routine twice daily. Start by cleansing with a non-drying and pH restoring formula. Use serums like Hyaluronic Acid to restore your skin’s moisture bank and follow up with a moisturizer to put a sturdy lock on this hydration. Remember to exfoliate twice weekly to ensure the healthy cellular turnover process. 3. Stay hydrated: It's no secret that hydration (both internally and externally) impacts your skin directly. Sustained hydration makes the skin appear more elastic and youthful. 4. Maintain a balanced diet: You are what you eat. So, if you want younger-looking radiant skin, a balanced diet is non-negotiable. Opt for antioxidants like blueberries, limes, oranges, kiwis and more that shield the skin against harmful aggressors. Throw into this mix, healthy fats and Collagen boosting items (re: green leafy veggies, fish, nuts and more). 5. Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise is crucial for optimal skin health. It helps flush out toxins, reduces stress, and improves blood flow to the skin, resulting in a soft glow that no makeup can match. Best Skincare Ingredients For Your Anti-Ageing Routine As discussed earlier, one needs a full-fledged skincare routine to attain youthful and radiant skin. To make this a wee bit easier for you, here’s a list of the best anti-ageing ingredients. Read ahead - 1. Retinoids: A type of Vitamin A, Retinol boosts Collagen production and improves cellular turnover to fight ageing. Add it to your weekly skincare rotation to soften fine lines and wrinkles over time. 2. Vitamin C: Packed with antioxidant properties, Vitamin C fades dark spots and bestows the skin with a radiant glow. The active’s topical application also boosts Collagen production and fights oxidative stress due to pollutants. 3. Peptides: Peptides encourage Collagen synthesis, improve skin elasticity, and dwindle fine lines. Hyaluronic Acid: The powerful humectant attracts moisture to the skin and reduces wrinkles over time. FAQs. 1. Can ageing be reversed? No. Ageing is a natural, inevitable process that cannot be reversed. However, the right skincare products, diet, lifestyle habits can help you age more gracefully. 2. What are the best anti-ageing ingredients ? Some of the best anti-ageing skincare ingredients include Retinol, Niacinamide, Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid and more. 3. At what age should you start using anti-ageing skincare? You can start using anti-ageing skincare in your 20s to avoid premature signs of fine lines and wrinkles.

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January 7, 2025

Skincare for Teens: Building a Routine to Combat Acne and Oiliness

According to statistics, approximately 85% of teens around the world grapple with acne. This is due to hormonal changes around the adolescent years that flag off the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode – leading to pesky bumps and inflammation. While breakouts are never welcome, recurring acne in your formative years not only impacts your appearance but also takes a toll on your appearance. The good news is that a good skincare AM and PM routine can help control the greasiness and acne for smooth, even skin. Understanding Acne In Teens In this section, we delve deeper into the different causes of acne and other common skin concerns amongst young adults. So, keep reading. Causes Of Acne In Teenagers Before you commit to a daily skincare routine, you must be well-versed in the many causes of acne in teens. While hormonal changes happen to be the number 1 factor, the use of certain pore-clogging cosmetics, genetics, and innately oily skin can further exacerbate these breakouts. More on this ahead - 1. Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes in adolescence lead to an increased production of sebum. When these oils along with dead cells and impurities clog the pores, it causes acne. 2. Genetics: If you are genetically predisposed to acne and oily skin, there is no stopping it. To understand it better, if your parents had oily skin or acne at this age, you might grapple with it too. 3. Stress: The physical, emotional, and cognitive changes in your teen years lead to immense stress. This signals the skin’s sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, leading to a never-ending oil slick on the face which gives way to acne. 4. Diet: If you consume high-glycemic foods, trans fats, and carbohydrates on the reg, you’re more likely to have acne. So, if you’re a teen prone to breakouts, we recommend making a mental note of what you consume. 5. Oily skin: If you have innately oily skin, chances are that you grapple with acne. For those unaware, oily skin is characterized by overactive sebaceous glands that spill sebum left, right and centre. When these oils along with keratin and dirt clog the pores, it leads to the formation of bumps. Other Common Skincare Issues In Teens Here are some other skin concerns that sebum overproduction brings forth. If you are a teen with acne, look out for - 1. Enlarged pores: Overproduction of sebum makes your pores appear enlarged. These massive pores lead to uneven skin texture which makeup cannot conceal. 2. Whiteheads or blackheads: Excessive sebum with dead cells and impurities can clog the pores, resulting in non-inflammatory acne like whiteheads or blackheads. For the unversed, blackheads have bigger openings on the skin. This permits air to enter and oxidize melanin, leading to the trademark black colour. Step By Step Skincare Routine For Teens With a robust skincare routine, you can curb sebum production and reduce acne breakouts overtime. Start by- 1. Cleansing: To expel oil, dead cells, and buildup from the pores, use an efficient yet gentle cleanser. Look for a formula that doesn’t make your skin feel stripped or uncomfortably tight. We recommend our Acne Control Face Wash with Salicylic Acid. The star ingredient regulates oil production, reduces whiteheads or blackheads, and prevents acne. Moreover, it contains humectant Hyaluronic Acid that binds water molecules to the skin. 2. Exfoliating: Oily skin attracts mounds of dirt, impurities, and pollutants, increasing the risk of breakouts. To remove this unwarranted buildup, use a Salicylic Acid-based exfoliating formula 2 to 3 times a week. 3. Toning: If you’re tired of the excess shine on your face, use an oil-balancing toner. Opt for an alcohol-free toner with ingredients like Lactic Acid, Niacinamide or both. A potent formula minimizes the pores and creates a smooth, even canvas. 4. Moisturizing: Use a lightweight, non-greasy and gel-based moisturizer to lock treatment into your skin. Seek ingredients like Niacinamide that blot excess sebum from the skin while ensuring long-lasting hydration. No matter how oily your skin gets, using a moisturizer in your morning and nighttime routine is crucial. 5. Sunscreen: Your skincare routine is not complete with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. A good SPF shields the skin against harmful UV rays, preventing rashes, breakouts, and other flare-ups. For oily skin, use a mattifying formula that doesn’t clog the pores or add more grease to the face. Key Ingredients For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin To address concerns like oiliness, whiteheads, and acne, add actives into your daily routine. These ingredients seep deep into the skin and nip the problem in the bud. While most of these active ingredients have no age limit for use, we recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist – especially f you have underlying sensitivities- 1. Salicylic Acid This .soluble ingredient soaks excess oil, unclogs pores, and soothes inflammation. You can use it to fight whiteheads, blackheads, and pesky acne breakouts. Use it with a cleanser with Acne Control Face Wash. If you have stubborn acne eruptions, opt for our Acne Spot Corrector Treatment. Salicylic Acid in this formula buffs away dead cells to shrink active acne overnight. 2. Niacinamide The skincare workhorse works wonders on oily and acne-prone skin. Use it to blot sebum and prevent unclogged pores while boosting skin hydration. Try it in the form of Foxtale’s 12% Niacinamide Serum that targets 7 signs of acne in 14 days. Seal in this treatment with our Oil Free Moisturizer with Niacinamide to prevent your skin from getting oily or heavy. Follow up with the Niacinamide-infused sunscreen for infallible sun protection with a gorgeous mattifying effect on the skin. 3. Glycolic Acid The potent active exfoliates your skin’s outermost layer to curb oiliness, prevent acne, minimize pores, and give the skin a soft glow. Use it in the form of AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum, 2 to 3 times a week. This formula also contains Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide that soothe any accidental (rare) inflammation caused by exfoliation. Common Mistakes To Avoid While Fighting Acne And Oiliness Want to get smooth, clear skin? Here are common mistakes you should avoid at all costs - 1. Unnecessarily touching your oily and acne-prone skin. This transfers bacteria from one part of the face to another, aggravating those acne breakouts. 2. Wearing heavy makeup: If you have oily or acne-prone skin, avoid wearing heavy makeup. Go for breathable, non-greasy formulas that don’t clog the pores on your face. 3. 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. This prevents new acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. Goes without saying that if you want acne-free skin, get at least 8 hours of sleep every day FAQs 1. How often should I wash my face if I have oily skin? Wash your face twice daily – during your morning and nighttime skincare routine. Use a pH-balanced, non-drying cleanser for the same. 2. Can I use acne medication with my normal skincare routine? We recommend speaking with a board-certified dermatologist before using acne medication with your skincare routine. 3. What ingredients should I look for in products for acne-prone skin? Look for ingredients like Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Benzoyl Peroxide in your anti-acne skincare. 4. Is sunscreen important for acne-prone skin? Yes, sunscreen is important for all skin types including acne-prone skin. 5. Can diet effect my acne? Yes, most definitely. Consuming high glycemic food items, complex carbohydrates, and trans fats increases sebum production, leading to more acne. 6. How long will it take to see results from my skincare routine? Most folks should see a noticeable difference within 4 to 6 weeks. 7. Can I use makeup if I have acne-prone skin? We recommend steering clear of heavy, greasy formulas that may clog your pores and aggravate acne. 8. Should i exfoliate if I have acne? Yes. Regular exfoliation buffs away dead cells, grime, and other impurities from the skin, reducing breakouts overtime. 9. Can stress cause acne in teens? Yes. Excessive stress flags off the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, leading to clogged pores and eventually acne.

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