Ceramides: A must-have Ingredient to Remedy all Skin Concerns

June 28, 2024

By Srishty Singh

Not too long ago, multi-hyphenate Alia Bhatt declared her love for Ceramides – sending skincare enthusiasts and novices into a tizzy! But is the hype around the ingredient justified? The answer is a resounding yes. For those unaware, super ingredient Ceramide serves as the building unit of the skin, responsible for its taut and elastic appearance. To use a borrowed analogy – if your skin is a masonry wall, Ceramide is the mortar holding the bricks a.k.a. the corneocytes together. But these are just a smattering of benefits! The multitasking ingredient also plays a pivotal role in barrier protection, which we explore in this blog. So, keep scrolling. Additionally, we introduce you to the best Ceramide-infused products on Foxtale for a 360-degree skin transformation. What Are Ceramides? Ceramides are lipid molecules that form approximately 40% of your skin barrier. For all skincare beginners, the skin or lipid barrier serves as the first line of defence for the body. It wards off pathogens, harmful aggressors, and UV radiation, ensuring healthy, happy skin. So, you can only imagine what would happen if Ceramides were depleted in your skin. They are a gamut of reasons that can diminish Ceramides in your skin >Ageing >Weather changes >Continued use of dry water >Harsh skincare and more How Do Ceramides Help In Barrier Protection? Here are the different ways in which Ceramides help uphold the skin barrier. 1. They Hydrate: We know that adequate hydration is indispensable for a sturdy skin barrier. Super ingredient Ceramides helps double down on efforts for skin hydration by preventing TEWL or Transepidermal Water Loss. You can pair it with Hyaluronic Acid in your skincare for best results. 2. They Exhibit Anti-inflammatory Properties: Ceramides boast anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate redness, rashes, hives, flare-ups and more. Ceramides are a must-have for folks with extremely dry or sensitive skin. 3. Integrity And Structure: To bring back the brick wall analogy, Ceramides serve as the mortar, ensuring the taut, supple & elastic appearance of your skin. The depletion of the super ingredient can lead to premature saggy skin, fine lines and wrinkles. 4. Infallible Protection From Pollutants And Aggressors: Ceramides sit on the skin barrier, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays and environmental aggressors. Do Ceramides Work For All Skin Types? If you’re on the fence about introducing this super ingredient into your skincare – we have some reassuring news for you. Ceramides bode well for all skin types, including oily. We know hydration is vital for maintaining oily skin as it regulates sebum production. Since topical application of Ceramides helps prevent Trans Epidermal Water Loss, they prove to be a good match for oily and combination skin. Best Ceramides-Infused Product On Foxtale Wish to add Ceramides to your everyday skincare? Try Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer in your morning and nighttime rituals. But before you add the product to your cart, here’s everything you need to know about the innovative formula Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer & Olive Oil First Impressions: The hydrating moisturizer for face sits in a sleek, purple bottle. If you geek out on aesthetics, this product is no short of a dream. The bottle has a pump on the brim that helps dictate the amount of moisturizer for one use. Look And Feel: The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly into the skin – leaving it soft and glowing. That’s right. No vigorous rubbing is required. It doesn’t leave any white residue and is the perfect precursor to a full face of glam. Concerns It Targets: Dryness, Uneven Texture, and Damaged Barrier How Does It Work: 1. Deeply Hydrates: Infused with Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and Olive Oil, the formula ensures multi-level hydration for the skin. The star ingredient, Ceramides, prevents TEWL and keeps the skin’s moisture reservoir intact for prolonged periods. 2. Deeply Nourishes: Olive oil in the formulation nourishes the skin, making it a must-have for folks with sensitive and dry skin. 3. Shields Against Aggressors: Ceramides and Vitamin E at the forefront of the formulation form a protective barrier on the dermis. The moisturiser helps shield your skin against environmental aggressors, harmful UV rays, and free radicals. 4. Smoothens Skin Texture: If you struggle with dry, flaky skin, this product should be on your radar. Replete with Ceramides, the lightweight formula makes your skin soft and supple from first use. 5. Repair & Reinforces The Skin Barrier: This formula boosts your skin’s ability to naturally reverse damage. You can alternate this Ceramide Super cream with skin barrier repair cream to reinforce the lipid barrier. Other USP: Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer has been formulated with all skin types in mind. The cream is sulfate-free, making it a good choice for folks with underlying skin sensitivities. FAQs 1. What does a Ceramide Moisturizer do? Ans) A Ceramide Moisturizer upholds the lipid barrier and ensures long-lasting hydration for the skin. 2. What is better, Hyaluronic Acid or Ceramides? Ans) Hyaluronic Acid is a powerful humectant that binds water molecules to the skin for sustained hydration. Ceramides, on the other hand, put a sturdy lock on this hydration and prevent TEWL. HA and Ceramides form the winning combo for people with dry or dehydrated skin. 3. Can I use the Ceramide Moisturizer every day? Ans) Yes. Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides is perfect for everyday use. It ensures long-lasting hydration, reinforces the lipid barrier and shields the skin from external aggressors. 4. When should I start using Ceramides? Ans) There is no cap on age for using Ceramides. 5. Can I use Vitamin C with Ceramides? Ans) Absolutely. Vitamin C and Ceramides pair exceptionally. Use the two ingredients to shield your skin against aggressors, UV rays, and free radicals. 6. Does Ceramide clog pores? Ans) No. Ceramides don’t clog pores, making them a good fit for oil and combination skin. 7. Can I use Ceramides for sun protection? Ans) Yes. Use Ceramides with a potent sunscreen formula to shield your skin against harmful UV radiation. 8. What is better, Ceramide or Niacinamide? Ans) Use Ceramides to improve the lipid barrier’s health and prevent moisture loss. On the other hand, Niacinamide is the holy grail of skin brightening. It also curbs sebum production and minimizes pores’ size for an even skin texture.

January 21, 2023

By Nikitha Shettigar

Welcome to the Retinol wonderland! If you’re reading this, just know that you are one step closer to youthful and radiant skin. But we know, you must still have some concerns about this product. "How should I use it?" "I'm a beginner, will it have any side- effects?" “How much is too much?” Don't fret, we’ve got all the answers for you. So sit back, relax and let's dive into the world of Retinol together, and say goodbye to any doubts and hesitation! What is Retinol? A derivative of vitamin A, this potent ingredient is used to treat skin problems like wrinkles, acne, dullness, and hyperpigmentation. Retinol is known to kickstart the production of collagen and speeds up cell turnover. Due to this smart mechanism, you're able to get good riddance from all the skin conditions that have been bothering you. It helps you get firmer, more taut skin and is an all-in-1 solution to all your skin concerns! How to use Retinol? Start with a cleanser The thought of a pampering cleanse seems very tempting after a long and tiring day. Using a gentle cleanser helps unclog pores and gets rid of dirt which might be responsible for giving you a dull complexion. Treat your skin with a hydrating facewash like Foxtale's daily duet cleanser. It contains the goodness of Red algae extract- an antioxidant that helps in locking in moisture and Vitamin B5, which promotes faster healing of the skin resulting in a reduction of acne and blemishes over time. Apply Retinol We know how eager you must've been to reach this step. But wait, before applying retinol, you need to keep a few things in mind. Before taking the retinol plunge, consider doing a patch test which is a quick and easy way to check for any potential redness or sensitivity. Once you've got the all-clear, you can confidently use Retinol and see the difference it can make on your skin. Take a pea-sized amount of retinol serum and apply it gently to the face and neck. In case you're wondering if applying only a pea-sized amount will be enough- Trust us, with retinol, Less is more. Worried if Retinol might cause your skin any side effects? Try using Foxtale's Retinol Anti Ageing Night Serum; it contains 0.15% encapsulated retinol, a safer concentration of retinol that penetrates deeper into the layers of skin before being activated. Unlike regular retinol serums, encapsulated retinol delivers benefits without causing any purging or irritation on your skin. Provide moisturization After applying retinol, you need to seal in all the benefits with a moisturizer. Give your skin a dose of nourishment with a generous amount of moisturizer. This will make your skin feel extremely soft and supple. Foxtale's Ceramide Supercream contains a unique blend of ingredients that are known to protect you from dryness and maintain the skin barrier. The moisturizer's unique feature is that it contains ceramides that hold the skin together and form a protective layer to prevent moisture loss. This is an excellent addition to your winter skincare routine! Defend with Sunscreen Although you've completed your PM routine, that doesn't excuse you from the most important part- sunscreen. The next morning you need to follow up your routine by using a high-SPF sunscreen. Why? Your skin's sensitivity to UV rays is increased after using retinol. If you avoid putting on sunscreen because it leaves your skin feeling greasy- you can try Foxtale's matte finish sunscreen. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving zero white cast and a shine-free finish, perfect for those with oily skin. But if you’re on the lookout for a sunscreen that is moisturizing, you can try Foxtale's dewy sunscreen. It leaves a beautiful dewy glow which is great for dry skin! Both options provide protection against the signs of ageing, so you can choose the one that best suits your skin type and enjoy a radiant, youthful look. Conclusion Retinol, if incorporated and used safely, can bring a myriad of benefits to your skin. Here's a tip- To let your skin get well-adjusted to this product, you can start off slowly. Apply retinol only once or twice a week. Once you feel your skin is getting used to this product, you can use it every alternate night. With patience and proper use, retinol can help to improve the appearance and texture of your skin. "Trust the process" with retinol! FAQs 1.Can I apply retinol in the morning? No, it is advised to apply retinol only at night. Retinol is known to make your face sensitive to UV rays. When you come under sunlight, the efficacy of the product also decreases. You can incorporate the serum at night and follow up with SPF in the morning. 2.When can I expect results after using retinol on my skin? Once you start using Foxtale's Vit-A-Lity retinol night serum, you can expect to see brighter and firmer skin within 8 weeks of use. The key is to stay consistent with your application to get the best results! 3.I have a dull complexion. Will retinol help brighten it? Yes, retinol aids in brightening the skin’s complexion. It works by accelerating cell turnover, which helps to shed dull, dead skin cells, revealing the newer, healthier skin underneath. This process not only improves the texture of your skin but also gives it a noticeable radiance and glow.

January 16, 2023

By Nikitha Shettigar

When viewing the many options available on Retinol, it may be difficult to resist the temptation to make a purchase. No matter how exciting and thrilling it might seem, it's important to choose the product that is best suited for you. Despite its numerous positive effects on the skin, it's crucial to be aware of the potential side effects that may occur. We’ve listed several side effects your skin might experience and some hacks you can use to deal with them effectively. Let's dive right into the topic! Know More About Retinol Did you know that retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A? Retinol is famous for improving collagen production, which helps eliminate fine lines and wrinkles . It’s also your skin's best friend in treating acne and any inflammation that's caused by it. How Does Retinol Work? Retinol is often dubbed the magical remedy for wrinkles. But how does it work? Additionally, what other skin concerns does Retinol address? 1. Helps reverse ageing: The topical application of Retinol boosts the production of Collagen – a protein associated with your skin’s structure and integrity. Moreover, Retinol preserves your skin’s Collagen level by neutralizing free radicals. Results? Softened fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. 2. Cures whiteheads, blackheads, and acne: Retinol is an efficient active ingredient for acne too. It keeps inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne at bay by preventing clogged pores. 3. Enhances skin texture and brightness: The skin has a circadian rhythm that prioritizes repair and rejuvenation at night. Retinol in your skincare aids this process by shedding dead-dried cells when you’re busy counting sheep. It improves the texture while bestowing a soft radiance on the skin. How To Make The Most Of Retinol? To make the most of your Retinol Serum, here’s how you can add it to your daily skincare. 1. Start by cleansing: To prevent any inflammation or redness, use a gentle, pH-balancing cleanser. If your skin type is oily or combination, try Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash. The Salicylic Acid-infused formula removes dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores, Alternatively, if you have dry or sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that ensure multi-level hydration for the skin. 2. Apply serum: Dab your face dry and apply the Retinol Serum. Since a serum contains a high concentration of active ingredients, you only need 2 to 3 pumps. Observe caution around sensitive areas like the eyes and the mouth. 3. Use a dollop of moisturizer: If you don’t seal this treatment with a moisturizer, all your efforts will be futile. Moreover, a moisturizer soothes inflammation, redness, hives and more. Folks with dry skin should opt for Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides. On the other hand, people with oily or combination skin can try Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer. 4. Load up on SPF: Remember to load up on SPF, the following morning. Retinol may cause photosensitivity and skin irritation among some individuals. To avoid this problem, try Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen for oily and Dewy Sunscreen for dry skin. If you wish to double down on your skin’s glow, try our SPF 50 Glow Sunscreen. Side Effects You Need To Watch Out For Let's be honest- the thought of youthful and rejuvenated skin tempts and excites us all. In a haste to see the benefits retinol has to offer, we might not be carefully using the product. This may lead to our skin reacting negatively to the product. Here are a few side effects retinol may cause on your skin- Sensitive skin People with sensitive skin, we know how tiring it can be to constantly be worried about the products you’re using on your skin. But your guard should not be let down when it comes to retinol. If you’re suffering from conditions like rosacea and eczema, you must be extra careful while using the product. Why? Because when people with sensitive skin use retinol, their skin is more prone to irritation and dryness. It is recommended to consult your dermatologist before using this product to be on the safer side. Skin irritation Retinol aids in the removal of dead cells that are on the upper layer of the skin. As a result, it may take some time for healthy and new skin cells to reach the skin's surface. This exposure causes skin irritation and redness. Increases skin purging What exactly is purging? It is a temporary skin reaction to an active ingredient that boosts cell turnover. Using a product that contains a higher concentration of retinol may be one of the reasons why your skin might be purging. Foxtale's retinol serum contains 0.15% encapsulated retinol, which penetrates deeper into the layers of skin, improving the skin texture along with treating the signs of ageing 2x faster compared to other retinol. Thanks to its low concentration, you no longer have to fear about skin purging and irritation. Dryness Don't you just hate the feeling of dry skin? Let us explain the exact reason this happens. When the process of cell turnover occurs, the skin can often become dry and flaky. Why? Because retinol loosens the connection between skin cells called keratinocytes, which causes flakiness. Foxtale’s Vit-A-Lity Retinol Night Serum contains betaine, a chemical that helps soften the skin texture and keeps it hydrated. Bid goodbye to dry skin once you start applying the serum! Causes peeling Retinol accelerates the skin cell turnover cycle, allowing the old layer of skin to be shed faster than usual. This causes your skin to become dry and flaky as it purges and peels to adjust to the retinol. To avoid peeling, begin the retinol process slowly and gradually increase the retinol concentration once your skin is used to the product. Sun damage When you skip wearing sunscreen, it might seem like it's not a big deal. But it's causing more damage than you might be aware of. Especially after applying retinol, the skin is more sensitive and delicate to the UV rays of the sun. A safe option is to follow up with sunscreen the next morning. If you skip this vital step, your skin will be more prone to redness and sunburn. How Can You Avoid The Side Effects? While the side effects of retinol might not seem so fun to read (and experience), we’ve come up with a few hacks you can use to make the best out of this product! Use the sandwich method while applying retinol. Apply retinol between two layers of moisturizer. This is very helpful for people with sensitive skin; it will help them get accustomed to the product. If you've just started applying retinol, using a product with a small concentration of it is better to ensure your skin gets used to retinol. You can try using Foxtale’s Retinol anti ageing night serum, as it contains 0.15% encapsulated retinol, which penetrates deeper into the layers of the skin to give the best results without causing any purging. Initially, it is recommended to use retinol twice a week. Once your skin is habituated to it, you can use retinol every alternate night. This reduces the chances of your skin getting irritated. Always wear your sunscreen. Since retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays, it is important to slather sunscreen on your skin the next morning. This will protect your skin from sunburns and redness. Why Should You Try Foxtale’s Encapsulated Retinol Serum? If you wish to steer clear of inflammation and other flare ups while fighting signs of ageing, we recommend our Retinol Serum – as touched upon briefly earlier. In this section, we elaborate on all the reasons why this serum is worth all the hype. 1. Encapsulated formula: Regular Retinol serums sit on the skin, leading to episodes of purging. Enter Foxtale’s inventive formula. It uses encapsulation technology to deliver Retinol molecules into the targeted areas. Results? There is no purging, just soft, youthful skin. 2. Hydrating prowess: If regular Retinol makes your skin feel stripped, this is your sign to make a switch. Foxtale’s innovative formula with Betaine improves your skin’s water-holding capacity. 3. Soothing properties: Additionally, Foxtale’s 0.15% Encapsulated Serum helps alleviate inflammation and forms a moisture film atop the skin. This helps prevent TEWL and preserves your skin’s hydration for long periods. Can Your Pair Retinol With Other Active Ingredients? The simple answer is yes. With the right active, you can enhance Retinol’s efficacy on the skin while minimizing episodes of inflammation or redness. 1. Hyaluronic Acid: The hero humectant Hyaluronic Acid hydrates the skin and helps offset any inflammation from Retinol. 2. Vitamin C: Retinol with Vitamin C helps boost Collagen production, making your skin appear taut and supple. To avoid accidental flare-ups, use Vitamin C in your morning routine with sunscreen and Retinol at night. 3. Peptides: Peptide complements Retinol by boosting Collagen in your skin cells. Moreover, Peptides have little to no side effects on the skin. 4. Niacinamide: Niacinamide pairs exceptionally with anti-ageing holy grail Retinol. Topical application of Retinol soothes inflammation, promotes barrier health and keeps hydration intact by preventing TEWL. We recommend avoiding Retinol with exfoliants like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) at the same time to avoid irritation. Before trying a new combination, do conduct a patch test on your neck. Conclusion Introducing retinol in your skincare routine will change things only for the better. Adhering to the proper guidelines can help you become an expert in understanding retinol. Just know that when it comes to retinol- Patience is a virtue. The more consistent you are with your routine, the more likely you are to see the results you want. FAQs 1. What is Retinol? Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is found in anti-ageing serums and creams. The active ingredient’s application improves cellular renewal, boosts Collagen production and unclogs pores. 2. Does retinol remove fine lines and wrinkles? Yes, retinol aids in the removal of fine lines and wrinkles. Foxtale’s Retinol night serum contains encapsulated retinol, which improves collagen production that helps in treating fine lines and wrinkles effectively. 3. Can retinol serum be applied under the eyes? Yes, but the skin under the eye is extremely sensitive and delicate. So instead of using it directly, we recommend you to mix retinol with Foxtale’s Comfort Zone rich moisture cream. Also, if your skin is sensitive, please use Foxtale’s under-eye gel instead. 4. Does retinol treat acne? Yes! Retinol can help treat acne effectively. Foxtale’s anti ageing night serum contains Kokum butter which helps tackle acne issues and soothe inflamed skin. 5. When can I start using Retinol? You can start using Retinol in your late 20s or early 30s. Having said that, there are no hard and fast rules pertaining to age. 6. How often can I use Retinol? If you are new to the active ingredient, start by using it once a week. If your skin responds well, increase the frequency to 2-3 times a week. 7. What are some tips and tricks for applying Retinol? Start by applying Retinol 2 to 3 times a week Cleanse your skin to facilitate absorption of the active ingredient Dab your skin before applying this serum. This will help reduce irritation on the skin Use a pea-sized amount and apply it all over your face. Observe caution around sensitive areas like the eyes and the mouth. Follow up with a potent moisturizer to seal this treatment. This step also helps alleviate inflammation and keep your skin smooth and soft. Retinol may increase photosensitivity, so never skimp on sunscreen Don’t expect instantaneous results and be consistent with your routine Keep a close eye on how your skin reacts Speak to a board-certified dermatologist to incorporate the ingredient in your skincare rotation. 8. What are some side effects of Retinol? While using regular Retinol you may experience redness, flakiness, peeling and irritation. 9. Can Retinol cause allergic reactions? Retinol can cause severe allergic reactions amongst individuals. If you experience the same, discontinue the product and consult a board-certified dermatologist. 10. Is Retinol safe for sensitive skin? Foxtale’s 0.15% Encapsulated Retinol Serum is dubbed safe for sensitive skin. We recommend starting out by using the product once a week. If your skin responds well, you can increase the frequency to 2-3 times a week. 11. Can I use Retinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding? We recommend steering clear of Retinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding. You may consult with your board-certified dermatologist in case of any further queries.

October 17, 2022

By Srishty Singh

Retinol is a potent ingredient that boosts skin cell turnover, so old skin cells are replaced with new ones faster. Although this helps to prevent acne and early indications of ageing, it creates photosensitivity in your skin. This means your skin will burn easily in sunlight. Sunscreen becomes indispensable in such a situation. So how exactly retinol and sunscreen can be the powerhouse against ageing? Read on to find out. How does Retinol work? Retinol, a type of retinoid and a popular skincare ingredient, initiates cell turnover. As a result, it promotes the production of new skin cells, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. It also enhances collagen production, essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Additionally, retinol can help regulate sebum production, which can be helpful for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Benefits of using retinol and sunscreen Prevents ageing Let's be honest- wrinkly skin is not on anyone's bucket list. So here's where this duo comes into the picture. Using retinol and sunscreen together can shield against ageing. This is because retinol boosts collagen production and treats the signs of ageing, while sunscreen protects you from UV radiation, one of the most prominent reasons for causing fine lines and wrinkles. Reduces skin sensitivity Retinol boosts cell turnover, a process where dead and dull skin cells are shed. It lets newer and healthy skin cells come to the skin's surface. However, new skin cells are exposed and not protected if you don't seal in with an effective sunscreen. To avoid your skin from burning, protect your skin with sunscreen and notice a drastic improvement in your skin sensitivity. Helps combat acne The combined benefits of retinol and niacinamide-containing sunscreen are truly impressive. This powerful duo helps control oil production and effectively treats and prevents acne. Niacinamide contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe inflammation. As a result, you can achieve clear and radiant skin by incorporating these two ingredients into your skincare routine. How Do You Incorporate Retinol Into Your Skincare Routine? Retinol can be tough to include in your beauty routine if you don't pick the right product and apply it at the right time. Retinol is highly potent and deeply penetrates the skin. As a result, because the component is new to your skin, your skin may need some time to adjust. If you want your skin to ease into retinol and avoid purging, use a gentle form of retinol with a low concentration. The Foxtale Vit-A-Lity Retinol night serum contains 0.15% encapsulated retinol, a modern innovation that only begins to act once an ingredient enclosed in a capsule has penetrated deeply into your skin. This doesn't cause any purging and yields benefit two times faster than regular retinol. As a beginner, apply retinol at night twice every week and then gradually increase its frequency once your skin gets adjusted to the product. Do note that all retinol formulations take around 10 to 12 weeks of consistent usage to show results on the skin. However, with the Foxtale retinol serum, you can expect to see changes within 8 weeks! Since retinol makes the skin sensitive to UV rays, it is best to use it at night. This is why daily use of sunscreen is necessary to improve protection, whether or not you have applied retinol. What Makes Foxtale’s Retinol Anti-Ageing Serum Stand Out? We know that Foxtale’s serum uses Encapsulated Retinol to work its magic. For those unaware – this innovative technology carries the Retinol molecules into the deepest layers of the skin to break open, minimizing episodes of flareups. Additionally, our Retinol Serum extends the benefits below to the skin. 1. Unlike other Retinol serums, Foxtale’s formula doesn’t dry out your skin. Infact, Betaine in this formula binds water molecules to the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration. 2. Foxtale’s Retinol Serum contains Kokum Butter that administers multi-level moisturization, soothes inflammation, and makes your skin super soft. 3. The lightweight serum glides with friction and infuses easily into the skin. It doesn’t have a greasy or icky feel on application – not even in the slightest. Are You New To Retinol? Here Are Some Precautions To Take With The Help Of Sunscreen Although retinol offers many advantages, you can only make the most if you wear sunscreen. Furthermore, avoiding sunscreen when following a retinol-intensive skincare regimen can aggravate the negative effects. Therefore, when using retinol in your skincare routine, take the following precautions: Avoid prolonged sun exposure As retinol promotes photosensitivity, it is not surprising that this is the first precaution to take. Avoiding sun exposure the following day after applying retinol will protect you from heat burns. If you must go out in the sun, make sure to apply a high-protection sunscreen with an SPF of 50, a PA++++ rating. Use protective accessories like sunglasses, a hat, a scarf, or an umbrella for extra protection. Never forego sunscreen This is yet another obvious safety measure. If you use retinol in your skincare, there is no way you can overlook sunscreen. While retinol can significantly diminish fine lines and prevent them, sunlight causes photoaging. Skipping sunscreen means you are cancelling the benefits of retinol. On the other hand, sunscreen enhances the benefits of retinol by manifolds. Antioxidants for better sun protection for the win The best way to ensure sun protection is with a standard sunscreen with SPF 50, but what's even better is if your sunscreen has antioxidants like niacinamide. Niacinamide is a fantastic component for strengthening the skin barrier and enhancing skin texture. It provides a protective barrier against external radicals over the skin. As a primary ingredient in the Foxtale Mattifying Cover-Up sunscreen, it also assists in controlling the production of oil on your skin. Additionally, the ingredient makes the sunscreen's texture a dream to apply, blend, and absorb. It is truly a multi-tasker. All these together ensure retinol can have the maximum impact on your skin. Conclusion Think of it like this- just like how you ensure double protection by wearing a sweater and muffler on a cold winter day, similarly, you can claim your anti-ageing benefits by using sunscreen and retinol. Retinol and sunscreen complement each other well (as well as your skin). Therefore, you can reap the most benefits of retinol if you seal all its goodness with sunscreen. FAQs 1. Can you use sunscreen and retinol together? Yes, you can use sunscreen and retinol together. Using retinol serum at night is recommended to reduce the risk of skin becoming sensitive due to UV exposure. Follow up with sunscreen in the morning to ensure sun protection. 2. I accidentally skipped sunscreen after using retinol. Will it affect my skin? Yes, skipping sunscreen after using retinol can negatively impact your skin, including sunburn, skin damage and ageing. This is because retinol makes your newer skin cells more sensitive and prone to UV damage. Applying sunscreen can help combat sun damage and protect it. 3. When can I start using Retinol? You can start using Retinol in your 20s to reverse premature signs of ageing. 4. Can I use Retinol every night? Folks who are new to Retinol can start by using the ingredient once every week. If your skin responds well, use the efficacious ingredient on alternate days. 5. What should I use first, Retinol or sunscreen? Take a few pumps of Retinol and apply it with a light hand. Since Retinol supports the cell renewal process, we recommend using the anti-ageing ingredient in your nighttime routine. To prevent episodes of burns, tanning, and other sun-induced damage, apply a generous amount of sunscreen the following morning. 6. What should I avoid using with Retinol? Avoid ingredients like AHAs and BHAs with Retinol. 7. What is the correct way to use Retinol at night? Start by cleansing with Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae that improve your skin’s water-holding capacity. Dab your skin dry and apply 2 to 3 pumps of Foxtale’s Retinol Serum. Maintain a light hand and be cautious around sensitive areas like the eyes and the mouth. After the serum infuses into the skin, apply a generous layer of moisturizer. You can try Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides. The potent formula creates a protective barrier on the skin, sealing the treatment.

September 30, 2022

By Nikitha Shettigar

If you are a skincare enthusiast who prefers to research before investing in any product, you probably have heard about ceramides. These building blocks for your skin are essential to maintain skin elasticity and overall health. Ceramides are the reason your skin is able to retain and hold moisture, keeping it soft and supple for longer hours. However, with age, the ceramide production ability of the skin is reduced and you require topical products to fulfill the void. Here we have provided all details about ceramides and how they work. With all this information, it will be much easier to find a suitable product that fulfills your skin’s requirements. So let’s take a deep dive into Ceramides, an ingredient that is a sure way to solve all skin-related issues and make way for plump, radiant skin always. What Are Ceramides? The first thing to know is what Ceramides are. Ceramides belong to a complex lipid family called sphingolipids. It forms the building blocks for our skin to maintain its elasticity, radiance, and barrier. Ceramides are naturally derived by the skin but with age, the capacity diminishes. As a result, the skin loses its radiance, elasticity, and its capacity to keep the skin hydrated. They can be produced synthetically as well and through skincare products, we can replenish the requirements. Especially in our 30s and 40s, we lose a lot of Ceramides, which can only be restored through supplements and skincare. However, with today’s environmental aggressors, it’s pretty much possible to lose Ceramides in your 20s! There are different forms of ceramides which can help you increase the restoration procedure, though their functions are more or less the same. How Do Ceramides Work? Ceramides are like a mortar between bricks. In the sense that they are the connection established between the skin cells. It holds the skin together by forming a protective layer. This in turn prevents moisture loss. Ceramides also act as the defense system for your skin by preventing visible damage from pollution and other environmental stresses. Moreover, the skin’s dynamic nature is supported by the Ceramides which make it even more important than any other anti-aging ingredient. It is primarily responsible for making your skin supple, youthful, and moisturized for a longer time. What Are The Types Of Ceramides And Their Benefits? There are several variants of Ceramides. To be precise, nine types of Ceramides are classified. The difference is based on the carbon composition of the variant. However, the benefits are more or less the same for all the variants. Sometimes, a product has one or several types of Ceramides in its ingredient list. Our Foxtale Ceramide Supercream Moisturizer comprises these variants of Ceramides: Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, and phytosphingosine. But how do these benefit your skin though? Here are some of the benefits you get when you use our Ceramide Supercream daily: 1. Ceramides being the building block for the skin structure, helps to restore the skin texture by restoring the epidermis. 2. It helps to minimize and improve the appearance of the skin pores. This prevents the moisture from seeping out and also keeps the outer surface of the skin hydrated. 3. Research has shown that it aids in forming a barrier on your skin to retain and hold moisture from leaving your skin. 4. The natural ceramide levels required to maintain the elasticity of the skin are restored when you provide ample topical replenishment of the ingredient. 5. It helps to keep dry patches or overall dryness of the skin at bay and reveals a smooth and supple skin texture which is so rare to find at a mature age. 6. It has anti-aging properties as ceramides help to retain the skin elasticity and as a result, the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines gets delayed. 7. It is effective against any skin bacteria growth. Thus, your skin stays safe from any type of allergic reaction or skin trouble caused by free radicals and other elements. 8. Being a very lightweight ingredient, ceramides prevent clogging of pores and get absorbed by the skin very easily. 9. It is soothing and hence it is suitable for most skin types. It is also suitable for irritated skin and helps to soothe it. 10. If you use exfoliators such as AHA, BHA, or retinoids to improve skin texture, ceramides are going to be your best friend. Since exfoliation increases cell turnover and clears away dead skin cells, ceramides help repair the skin barrier. 11. Ceramides also act as a great makeup base/primer. When you use the Ceramide Supercream under your makeup, it smoothes out the skin texture and makes your makeup last longer too. 12. According to a study, using a moisturizer packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid such as the Ceramide Supercream, along with treatment-based products like retinol or acne gel, can help prevent skin dryness. Can Ceramides Benefit All Skin Types? How Do They Do It? The best thing about ceramides as an ingredient is that they are suitable and work for all skin types. Even sensitive, inflamed, or irritated skin can also use a ceramide infused skincare product since it is one ingredient that is naturally produced by your body. Hence, there is no chance of turning out allergic to it. Here are the different skin types and how ceramides are beneficial for all of them: 1. Oily skin The excess sebum tends to clog the pores in oily skin types. It eventually leads to blackheads and whiteheads. Using a ceramide moisturizer strengthens the protective barrier of the skin and locks the pores, preventing dirt and pollutants from accumulating in them. It also controls the sebum production to some extent and keeps your skin hydrated. 2. Dry skin Ceramide helps to lock moisture and keep the skin hydrated for a longer time. As a result, the moisture does not escape and hence, dry patches or overall dryness of the skin get prevented. 3. Sensitive skin Sensitive skin has trouble using many different ingredients. However, Ceramide is mild enough and hence a ceramide-based moisturizer or serum is suitable for skincare routines designed for sensitive skin. 4. Acne-prone skin Acne and similar breakouts are aggravated by the pollutants and free radicals around use. The ceramide cream helps to rebuild the skin structure and strengthen it internally, thus preventing the external factors from affecting the skin and aggravating such conditions 5. Combination skin As the epidermal layer of the skin is protected against all external factors when you are using a Ceramide product, combination skin experiences overall protection that ensures it stays hydrated enough. 6. Aging skin Mature and aging skin is unable to produce as much natural collagen as we need. With the help of topical Ceramide application, we can replenish the requirement well. This ensures the skin structure remains intact for a longer time and keeps wrinkles and fine lines at bay. 7. Psoriasis It is believed widely that Ceramides’ maintenance and repair function while strengthening the protective barrier of the skin is a valuable contribution to treating psoriasis. It is an epidermal lipid that plays a major role in the stratum corneum function. 8. Eczema Eczema leads to dry, rough and flaky patches of the skin as well as inflammation. Ceramides can rebuild your skin structure and keep it hydrated which in turn neutralizes the signs of eczema to a certain extent. 9. Rosacea The inflammation and stinging and burning sensation caused by active rosacea often prevent users from using any skincare products. But Ceramides have a calming effect and can reduce skin irritation to some extent making it suitable for those suffering from this skin condition. Combining Ceramides With Other Ingredients We all follow a skincare routine that involves several products starting from a cleanser to serum and moisturizer. A common question among all is what all ingredients work best together and what combinations must be avoided. Many ingredients can cancel the benefits of each other and must not be combined. In the case of Ceramides though, such a problem rarely arises. Ceramides combine well with almost every ingredient used in skincare. Whether you use actives or choose any other form of skincare products, Ceramides do not affect their effectiveness at all. You can especially combine Ceramides and Retinol. Both are known for effective anti-aging ingredients and hence work well together. When beginning your retinol journey, you must be cautious of the concentration of the formulation. To be on the safer side, it is advisable to use a Ceramide enriched moisturizer before as well as after using Retinol. This method doesn’t hamper your skin’s barrier. Sodium Hyaluronate also goes hand-in-hand with Ceramide. Many products are formulated combining both these ingredients. This is one reason why the Foxtale Ceramide Supercream and the Daily Duet Face Wash which contains Sodium Hyaluronate, a derivative of Hyaluronic Acid, work miracles on all skin types. Vitamin C which is also an anti-aging product as well as hydrant, pairs well with Ceramides too. You can easily use a Vitamin C Face serum and follow it up with the Ceramide moisturizer to complete a skincare routine. Our Foxtale C For Yourself Vitamin C serum is a perfect accompaniment for the ceramide moisturizer as a result. How Can We Incorporate Ceramides Into Our Daily Skincare Routine? Ceramides are available for topical application in many forms. From moisturizers to serums, lotions, and gels, the ingredient is witnessed in a variety of products. They are available in eye creams too. However, the best way to include Ceramides in your skincare routine is to go for a Ceramide-infused moisturizer. You can keep the skincare routine simple by investing in a high-quality Ceramide moisturizer and also keep the number of products minimal. Our Foxtale Ceramide Supercream Moisturizer is a great choice for all age groups. Infused with different types of Ceramides namely, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, and phytosphingosine, it works for all skin types as well. Moreover, it pairs well with actives like Retinol which is often a part of the anti-aging skincare routine. The best time to use a Ceramide moisturizer is after your serums on damp skin and before you go to bed to lock in the moisture and let it work on your skin for some time. Summary Understanding Ceramides will help you to decide on the best product for your skin. It is essential to choose a product that comes from a reputable company and has gained positive feedback. Now that you have a detailed overview of how ceramides help your skin, you can easily find a product ideal for your skin. FAQs 1. What is the function of Ceramides? Ceramides double down on hydration by preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. The super ingredient also shields the skin against harmful aggressors and UV rays while upholding barrier health. 2. Can I use Hyaluronic Acid with Ceramides? Absolutely. Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides pair exceptionally in a skincare routine. Powerful humectant HA binds water molecules to the skin, ensuring its long-lasting hydration. Ceramides put a sturdy lock on this hydration by preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. 3. Is it okay to use Ceramides daily? There is no limit to using Ceramides in your skincare. For best results, use a potent Ceramide-based moisturizer (like Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer) twice daily. 4. What is the right age for starting Ceramides? You can start using Ceramides at any age. 5. Are there any side effects of using Ceramides? No. There are no side effects on topical application of Ceramides. 6. Can I use Foxtale’s Ceramide Super Cream with Vitamin C? Absolutely. Ceramides and Vitamin C work in synergy to tackle several concerns They help soothe inflammation, redness, irritation, hives, and other forms of sensitivity. - Ceramides and Vitamin C help shield the skin against harmful aggressors, UV rays, and free radicals. - They two age-reversing ingredients help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet and more. 7. How to use Foxtale’s Hydrating Cream with Ceramides? 1. To maximize hydration for your skin, start by cleansing with Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that bind water molecules to the skin. 2. Once your face is thoroughly cleansed, use a treatment of choice. Try Vitamin C to reduce dark spots, Niacinamide to cut excess sebum, and our Hyaluronic Acid Serum for 6X more hydration.