Are you on the road to clearer and brighter-looking skin? Then you need to know about chemical peels and incorporate them into your skincare routine. The secret to beautiful skin is taking care of it. And with time, chemical peels have been proven effective in revealing a glowing and fresh complexion. Keep on scrolling to know about this amazing discovery!

What are chemical peels?

If you’ve heard this buzzword ‘chemical peels’ around lately and are wondering what this does to your skin, we’ve got you covered. A chemical peel is a solution that contains different types of chemical agents that draws out dead and unwanted skin cells from your skin. It is great to exfoliate away weathered layers of dead and damaged skin cells to reveal fresh, glowy skin. The term chemical peel might seem spooky, but when done correctly either by a dermatologist or at home, can really transform your skin.

What do chemical peels do for your skin?

Several people vouch for chemical peels as their secret to glowing, radiant skin. But what does chemical peels exactly do to your skin? Let’s find out.

• Improves complexion & overall skin texture

Chemical peels on the uppermost as well as the innermost layer of your skin. This takes away all the damaged skin cells and flakiness and improves the overall skin texture.

• Brightens your skin & lighten pigmented areas

Chemical peels have a strong concentration of exfoliating acids that work on skin discolouration and dark spots. This allows the pigmented areas to get back to their natural colour.

• Smooths & softens rough skin

The top layer that consists of dead and damaged skin cells is removed with the help of chemical peels. This reveals fresh, baby-soft skin which makes any product applied to it work better.

• Clarifies the skin & prevents acne

Chemical peels that consist of exfoliating acids such as BHA are great for acne-prone skin. They penetrate deeper into the skin, unclogs pores, and clarify the skin.

Different types of chemical peels

1.Light peels

Light or superficial peels target the topmost/outermost layer of your skin known as the Stratum corneum. They incorporate within them very mild acids that are perfect for beginners or even sensitive skin types. These are great as a refresher that requires little to no downtime.

2.Medium peels

Medium peels, as the name suggests, target the middle part of the skin. These are much more effective for removing damaged skin cells than light peels. Since these peels use lower pH to reach deep into the skin, they are not recommended for first-timers. You may expect peeling for 3-6 days so it’s advisable to not expose yourself to the sun.

3.Deep peels

Deep peels are very intense and they penetrate the deepest layer of your skin. These peels are targeted to treat serious skin issues and conditions. These are only to be done by professionals and experts. They have the longest downtime of more than 7 days.

How to pick the right chemical peel for your skin

With different varieties of chemical peels available to you, it can get difficult to pick the right one for your skin. A chemical peel should be chosen based on your skin type, concern, and tolerance level. This is how to get started:

Lactic peel

If you have a sensitive/dry skin type with little acid tolerance level, go for a lactic acid peel. This is a light peel that is perfect for skin concerns such as light acne scars and hyperpigmentation.

Mandelic peel

If you have zero acid tolerance level and want to target fine lines and wrinkles, the mandelic acid peel is for you. It is one of the most gentle peels.

Glycolic peel

Glycolic peel is a medium peel targeted to work on acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and PIH for those who have some acid tolerance level. It is a popular treatment for sun damage as well.

Salicylic peel

If you suffer from acne and clogged pores, the salicylic acid peel is perfect for you. It is a medium peel that goes deep into the skin and fights acne-causing bacteria.

TCA peel

One of the most intense and deep peels that work on dark spots, freckles, uneven skin tone, and discoloration is TCA or Trichloroacetic peel. You will experience discomfort if you’ve had TCA peel so aftercare is extremely important.

Some after-care tips

No matter what type of chemical peel you’ve had, here are a few things you must follow to not ruin your skin:

• Repair your skin barrier like no one’s business

Since you have just exfoliated your skin and the top layer of skin cells is removed, it is important to recover it. The healing process is increased if you use fewer products, focusing more on skin protection. Hence, a barrier repair moisturizer with ingredients such as Ceramides is the right choice. Our Ceramide Supercream Moisturizer is just the thing you need. It is a lightweight, non-comedogenic cream that locks in moisture and reduces dryness or irritation.

• Use sunscreen now, more than ever

After chemical peeling, your skin is more prone to sun damage. This is why a broad-spectrum sunscreen like our Cover Up Sunscreen with an SPF of more than 50 has to be applied even if you stay indoors. If you go out, reapply it every 2 hours. However, we recommend avoiding sun exposure as much as possible.

• Don’t over-exfoliate

Patience is key when it comes to aftercare for your skin after chemical peeling. Do not go overboard and use harsh scrubs or other acids. All you need is a simple routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting.

What exactly is benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication that is used to fight acne breakout. It is an ingredient found in cleansers, lotions, and creams that are primarily used to kill acne-causing bacteria and hence, combat acne. It is available as medication over-the-counter as well as cosmetics from renowned brands. It is an antimicrobial that kills and minimizes the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

How does benzoyl peroxide affect the skin?

Benzoyl peroxide combats the bacteria on the skin which instigate acne. It helps to unclog the pores and remove dead skin cells which lead to blockage. It also prevents new acne from erupting.

It should be used only topically. Caution must be exercised when using a benzoyl peroxide lotion. Wash your hands well before and after the application. The product must be used daily and you will see results within 4 weeks. The full effect of the treatment is noticeable after another 2-4 months.

If you are using benzoyl peroxide for the first time, it is expected that your skin might experience redness, slight tingling sensations, or irritation. And this is where Foxtale’s super-soothing Ceramide Supercream Moisturizer comes to the picture. This is what you need to calm your skin down after using any kind of active. With skin-loving ingredients such as ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, and much more, you can enjoy using your actives and have barrier friendly skin!

Benzoyl peroxide benefits vs side effects 

Benzoyl Peroxide comes with both benefits as well as side effects. Here is a glimpse of both of them:

Benefits of benzoyl peroxide:

Side effects of benzoyl peroxide:

• Skin irritation
• Flaking and peeling of skin
• Leaves stains on clothes and hair
• Some may be allergic to it

Keeping in mind the side effects, it is best to patch-test or get recommendations from a dermatologist, before using this product. You can also consider alternate treatments. Here is something about perfecting your skin using cellular beauty that is a holistic approach to skincare.

Comparing benzoyl peroxide to other treatments

Apart from benzoyl peroxide, there are two more ingredients popular for combating acne. Here is a comprehensive comparison between benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and retinol, all of which are useful for combating acne:

When you understand the different ways in which benzoyl peroxide can affect your skin, it gets easier to incorporate the ingredient in your skincare routine while avoiding the side effects.

Whether it's your best friend's wedding or a much-awaited interview, acne comes unannounced, paying no heed to your efforts or how eagerly you've been waiting for D-day. Although it's a common experience, it can be annoying sometimes. Acne can happen to anyone, at any age, and on any type of skin, even if you're no longer a teenager. The reasons are varied, but thankfully, there are ways to eliminate them as quickly as they appear. Read on to learn how to avoid such breakouts. 

What causes acne breakout? 

While the phrase "Prevention is better than cure" is very applicable, sometimes, preventive measures are not enough. Sometimes it's vital to understand the underlying causes. Below are a few reasons responsible for those sudden pesky breakouts:

1.Hormonal imbalance

Changes in hormones or fluctuation during puberty, pregnancy, or any illness can cause an acne breakout. Even hormonal imbalances induced by medicines also have such effects. Thyroid, overweight, and PCOS are a few health conditions that cause hormonal problems leading to breakouts.

2.Stress

Lifestyles these days often cause abnormal stress. A new job, upcoming exams, wedding, relationship, financial crisis- it can be anything. When released excessively, stress hormones cause acute acne breakouts and more severe health issues. 

3.Sudden diet change

If you go for crash dieting or there's a sudden change in your usual diet, the effects are reflected on your skin. Also, oily, spicy, and junk food consumption causes acne breakouts.

4.Dehydration

When your skin is dehydrated, your body increases oil production. What does extra oil lead to? Exactly! Acne. Inculcating healthy habits like drinking plenty of water, and applying a hydrating serum can aid in getting moisturized and supple skin.  

5.Environment

The environment's changes and free radicals can also cause an acne breakout. For example, if you relocate to a new place, your skin takes time to adjust, and often the results are reflected through such breakouts. Moreover, the dirt and pollution clog the pores, which in turn causes the breakout. 

6.Wrong skincare

Last but not least, choosing the wrong skincare product often gets indicated by adverse reactions like acne. If a particular product does not suit you, pimples and acne indicate the problem. 

Skincare routine to treat acne 

There are many long-term and short-term ways to treat acne breakout and even prevent it. Here's a simple yet effective skincare routine you can follow-

AM Routine 

• Use a cleanser 

Cleansing your face helps remove excess sebum and dirt which contributes to acne. Try using a cleanser containing sodium hyaluronate and red algae extract, which restores skin hydration and gives a glow to the face. The daily duet facewash is ideal for acne-prone skin as It contains vitamin B5- a vital ingredient that reduces acne and blemishes over time. 

• Spot correction treatments

Try spot correction treatments that provide the best solutions to address sudden breakouts. One such product is Foxtale Acne Spot Corrector Gel, enriched with several notable ingredients. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and reduces sebum production, while Glycolic acid gently exfoliates and reduces marks and discoloration. The gel also contains Azelaic acid, which controls pigmentation by improving cell turnover and killing acne-causing bacteria. Lastly, niacinamide is included to reduce the severity of acne and redness.

• Moisturize your skin

It's normal to skip applying moisturizer, as one may feel it further aggravates your breakout. But it is important to note that dehydrated skin will trigger the sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum to compensate for the loss. People with skin prone to acne should choose a lightweight moisturizer that is hydrating and will repair the skin barrier. 

• Use an SPF 

Using products containing AHAs can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays; hence it is advisable to wear sunscreen. Sunscreen provides sun protection, evens skin tone, and fights the signs of ageing. Foxtale's matte finish sunscreen is powered with Vitamin E & B5, which prevents free radical damage and reduces the appearance of acne and blemishes. In addition, the presence of niacinamide regulates oil production. 

PM Routine 

• Cleanse

Your skin is also an indicator of how tiring the day has been(the first indicator being the drastic drop in energy levels). Double cleansing is a great way to remove any remnants of makeup and dirt that are settled on your skin. But double cleansing can be tiring. There's a solution to this- Foxtale's hydrating face wash. It doubles as a makeup remover and as a deeply hydrating cleanser. Let this facewash make all your skincare woes go away!  

• Hydrate with a serum 

Applying hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin instantly refreshes it. The daily hydrating serum contains α- bisabolol- a chamomile component known to soothe redness and inflammation-related acne. Moreover, it helps to maintain the moisture level of your skin, which results in a well-hydrated and supple feel. Let's admit it, who wouldn't want to wake up with skin that feels incredibly hydrated and smooth?

• Treat with Acne gel 

To get the best benefits of the gel, include it in your PM routine. It will help in clearing out your pores and reduce acne overnight. Apply a pea-sized amount of the gel on the pimple, wait for it to dry, and follow up with the rest of your routine.

• Moisturize 

As the last step of your routine, apply a moisturizer that will provide an extra boost of plumpness to the skin without making your skin feel too heavy or greasy. 

Here are a few more hacks to keep in mind! 

1.Keep it simple 

Keep the skincare routine simple with minimal products which are gentle and suitable for your skin type. Avoid using skincare products that contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients that can irritate your skin and make acne worse. Be consistent with your skincare routine, and give it time to adjust to the products you're using. 

2.Maintain a healthy and consistent diet

Following a healthy and balanced diet can be a preventive measure against such breakouts in the long run. Also, be consistent about the diet. Avoid suddenly going for a crash diet or changing the composition of your food habits. 

3.Good sleep and no stress

Leading a stress-free life is a dream. But you can compensate for that by getting enough sound sleep. A minimum of 7 hours of deep sleep is essential to help your skin get the necessary rest. Avoid situations that can unnecessarily add to your stress.

4.Take precautions against climate change

Stay prepared to combat skin problems induced by climate change. Whether it is a new season or you are relocating- update your skincare products according to the climate. For example, consider using a more occlusive-based moisturizer for the colder months if your skin tends to dry during winter.

5.Patch test skincare products

Every time you try a new skincare product, it is wise to do a patch test. Also, go through the ingredient list to understand the individual ingredients in the product. Be aware of any ingredient that causes allergic reactions. 

Related Articles:

1. Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
2. Skincare Guide to Achieving Acne-Free Skin
3. How To Treat Acne Without Drying Your Skin

Conclusion 

While sudden acne breakouts can be frustrating, they don't have to be overwhelming. You can quickly get your acne under control by having a good understanding of skincare basics and the right tools on hand. However, it's essential to note that not all acne is created equal, and different breakouts may require different treatment approaches. That's why identifying the root causes of your acne is critical to finding the most effective solution. Whether hormonal changes cause it, stress, or environmental factors, knowing the underlying issue can help you choose the right products to give you clear skin and prevent future breakouts.

Acne is just like that one relative. You don't look forward to having them but somehow, whenever they visit, you have to tolerate them. Acne-prone skin is one of the most prevalent and difficult skin types to care for. It necessitates going the extra mile. Having acne can often be a painful experience and may impact your self-esteem but with the right guidance and care, you can embark on a journey towards healthier skin. Making certain modifications to your skincare regimen or way of life may be necessary to get rid of acne. 

Acne-prone skin frequently exhibits symptoms including zits, pimples, and irritated skin. Depending on how severe it is, acne is a chronic condition that constantly fluctuates. One needs to keep consistency in mind when managing acne. To effectively treat it, you need to understand it and have a lot of patience. Let’s learn everything we can about acne-prone skin and how to cure it. 

What is Acne-Prone Skin?

Acne-prone skin is a skin type characterized by a genetic predisposition to clogged pores, excessive sebum production, and frequent inflammation. It occurs when dead skin cells do not shed properly, trapping oil and allowing C. acnes bacteria to thrive. Managing it requires a consistent CTMP (Cleanse, Treat, Moisturize, Protect) routine using non-comedogenic ingredients.

What causes acne-prone skin?

Your skin pores produce sebum which keeps your skin lubricated and moisturized. However, when your skin generates too much sebum, which clogs your pores, it causes inflammation and develops into a pimple, also known as acne. Excess sebum production or acne formation can occur for a variety of causes, which is why it can affect both teenagers and adults. Here are a few significant causes:

1.Hormones

A major contributor to acne-prone skin is hormones. It is particularly prevalent in teenagers and young adults as their bodies begin to produce testosterone, which in turn leads to the overproduction of sebum/oil in the sebaceous glands. Breakouts can also be caused by hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle.

2. Diet

According to studies, some food ingredients may play a significant role in acne-prone skin. Processed meals, fat and hydrogenated oils, spicy, packaged foods, meat, alcohol, dairy, and even coffee can aggravate acne-prone skin.

3. Stress

In certain people, stress also seems to be a factor in acne outbreaks. Your body's primary stress hormone is cortisol. Acne may result from an increase in sebaceous gland oil production when too much cortisol hormone is released into the bloodstream.

Acne Mapping: What Your Breakouts are Telling You

What to avoid for acne-prone skin?

Not taking care of your stress or diet are just a few things you should avoid doing to trigger your acne-prone skin. Here are some more:

• Do not be overly harsh or brutal to your skin; instead, use a gentle approach to skincare. This includes not exfoliating and cleansing your face excessively.
• Never use an abrasive cleanser or face wash.
• Do not touch or squeeze your pimples; instead, leave them to your treatment products.
• Face scrubs should never be used since they might cause micro-tears in the skin.
• Avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight.
• Do not try random kitchen hacks or DIYs you find on the internet. Do not apply lemon or toothpaste to your acne!
• Be sanitary in general. This includes keeping your phone screen clean and changing your pillows regularly.
• Keep your phone screen clean and change your pillowcases at least twice a week.

How to treat acne-prone skin?

Now that you understand the causes of your acne-prone skin and the do's and don'ts, it's time to learn about acne-prone skin treatment. One of the greatest practices to follow if you have acne-prone skin is to have a simple skincare routine that focuses on treating acne and overall skin upkeep.

A suitable Cleanse-Treat-Moisturize-Protect (CTMP) routine

A good skincare routine is defined by its effectiveness rather than its complexity. When you have acne-prone skin, sticking to a simple routine is the way to go.

• Cleanse

The first step is to cleanse your skin to remove dirt, pollutants, excess oil, and makeup remnants. Thoroughly cleansing your skin will also help prepare it for the next parts of the routine. Choose a cleanser that is gentle enough on the skin to not deprive it of its natural oils. Hydrating facewash is the perfect pick for your AM and PM cleansing routine. It is a gel-based, oil-free formula that gently cleanses your skin from the inside out while simultaneously hydrating it and aiding in the prevention of future outbreaks. You just cannot go wrong with this one!

• Treat

The second step is to address your skin issue, which is acne. Any sort of acne medication can be used to treat the condition, including serums, toners, and ampoules. However, one of the most effective acne remedies is an anti-acne clarifying gel!

We have a delightful surprise for you to eliminate the acne and pimples from your life. Introducing Foxtale’s Acne Spot Corrector Gel, a must-have for clear, smooth, and acne-free skin. This spot corrector guarantees visible improvement after 12 hours of use, whether it is stress-related acne or hormonal breakouts. This powerhouse is loaded with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and others, making it a one-stop treatment for treating severe active acne and acne marks.

• Moisturize

Acne treatments that contain potent acids might be a touch drying on the skin since they try to limit oil production on your skin. This is why the following step, which is to moisturize your skin, is necessary. Moisturizing your skin strengthens its barrier, protects it from dryness, and retains moisture to keep it looking smooth and healthier. One such moisturizer to have in your skincare routine is Foxtale’s Ceramide Supercream. Enriched with skin barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, this cream is lightweight and doesn’t clog your pores.

• Protect (AM only)

Protecting your skin from damaging UV rays is one of the greatest acne remedies and a must-have step in your skincare routine. Choose a lightweight, non-pore-clogging product for acne-prone skin. For acne-prone skin, the Foxtale Matte Sunscreen is ideal. This lotion-like formula does not clog pores and provides great sun protection thanks to advanced UV filters and niacinamide, all while leaving skin weightless and matte. 

Related Articles:

1. Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
2. Step-by-Step Skincare Guide to Achieving Acne-Free Skin
3. Causes And Treatments of sudden Acne Breakouts

The Conclusion

Heading towards clear skin may not be an easy journey and will involve you putting a lot of patience on the products. However, the saying “Trust the process” must be followed. Whichever routine you’ll practice, ensure you thoroughly follow the instructions. In case you’re intending to switch up your products, it is wise to consult your dermatologist first.