Clear Acne-Prone Skin with AHA, BHA, and Niacinamide

Clearing Acne-Prone Skin: AHA, BHA, and Niacinamide Skincare Tips,

Acne-prone skin can be a complex condition to manage, especially if you have tried multiple skincare products with little to no success. However, one solution that has proven effective in clearing acne-prone skin is incorporating AHA, BHA, and Niacinamide into your skincare routine.

But before we get to this cheat sheet, let’s understand acne-prone skin 

What Is Acne-Prone Skin? 

Acne-prone skin looks different for different folks. Here are some signs that will help you determine if you need to accommodate AHA, BHA and Niacinamide in your rotation. Alternatively, we recommend consulting a board-certified dermatologist to quell all confusion.

1. Oily skin: One of the most signs of acne-prone is excessive oil production. This occurs due to overactive sebaceous glands especially down the T-zone, along the forehead, and around the chin.

2. Whiteheads and blackheads: When excess sebum, dead cells, and impurities clog pores, you may experience pesky whiteheads or blackheads. The latter have bigger openings on the skin’s surface that allow melanin’s oxidation, leading to the black hue.

3. Acne: Acne occurs when bacteria start thriving in clogged pores, leading to bumps and inflammation.

What Are Some Triggers For Acne-Prone Skin?

The first step for treating acne-prone skin – being well-versed in your triggers. Scroll ahead for the most common ones

1. Hormonal changes

2. Excess stress

3. Genetic propensity

4. Lifestyle choices

5. Ageing and other natural processes  

What Is AHA, BHA, And Niacinamide?

AHA and BHA are exfoliants that help eliminate dead skin cells and unclog pores. AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) is water-soluble and works on the surface of the skin. It helps to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) is oil-soluble and penetrates deeper into the skin. It works to unclog pores and clear excess oil, making it especially helpful for oily, acne-prone skin.

Niacinamide belongs to the family of vitamin B3 and has anti-inflammatory and redness-reducing properties. This makes it a beneficial ingredient for sensitive or acne-prone skin individuals. It also helps to regulate sebum production and can improve the appearance of pores.

How To Use AHA, BHA And Niacinamide For Acne-Prone Skin

Introducing AHA, BHA, and Niacinamide into your skincare routine slowly and gradually is important Start by using a product containing these ingredients once or twice a week and gradually increase frequency over time. This will help avoid irritation and sensitivity. In addition, it is crucial to apply sunscreen during the day while using AHA or BHA products, as they can increase skin sensitivity to the sun.

AHA For Acne-Prone Skin

AHA can provide significant advantages if you have skin prone to acne, as it can effectively exfoliate the surface layer of dead skin cells and promote the regeneration of new cells.

This process can assist in unclogging pores and preventing the development of new breakouts.

Glycolic acid is a common form of AHA used in skincare products. It functions by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier to eliminate them from the skin’s surface. Glycolic acid can be found in cleansers, toners, and serums.

Lactic acid is another form of AHA skincare that is gentler than glycolic acid. It is a great option for those with sensitive skin or for those who are new to using exfoliants. Lactic acid can be found in cleansers, toners, and moisturizers.

Best AHA BHA Serum For Face

If you’re looking to add an exfoliant to your skincare routine, might we recommend Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum? The gentle formula sloughs off excess sebum and build-up from deep inside the pores, ensuring a smooth, clear surface. Powered with Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid, here’s why this product stands tall in an avalanche of offerings -

1. Unlike other exfoliants in the market, Foxtale’s innovative serum doesn’t cause any stinging or burning sensation on the skin.

2. The non-greasy serum fights blackheads, whiteheads, acne and more without making your skin feel stripped.

3. The best part? Our serum contains Hyaluronic Acid at the forefront. The powerful humectant binds water molecules to the skin – approximately X1000 in its weight. Its topical application ensures soft and supple skin for a long period.

Niacinamide For Acne-Prone Skin

Niacinamide for skin is a great ingredient for those with acne-prone skin as it regulates sebum production and reduces inflammation. It can also help to improve the appearance of pores and reduce the frequency of breakouts.

Niacinamide for skin can be found in skincare products like serums, moisturizers, and toners. It can be utilised in combination with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. When incorporating niacinamide into your skincare routine, you should see a reduction in inflammation and redness.

The Best Niacinamide Serum For Face

On the lookout for a potent Niacinamide Serum? Well, look no further. Try Foxtale’s 12% Niacinamide Serum. This formula is bound to elevate your skincare exponentially. Ahead, all the reasons why you should bag our Niacinamide Serum

1. The featherlight cloaks blemishes and shrinks pores to create a smooth, even surface for the rest of your makeup. 

2. A Godsend for folks with oily or acne-prone skin, the serum cuts excess sebum, resulting in oil-free radiance.

4. Niacinamide also helps offset inflammation and other flare-ups. So, if you grapple with underlying sensitivities, this product is a must-have. 

Can I Use AHA BHA With Niacinamide?

Incorrect layering of active ingredients proves counterproductive to good skin. This is why, we recommend using Niacinamide and AHA BHAs at different times during your skincare.

To avoid over-exfoliation, use the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum 2 to 3 times in your weekly routine at night. The active ingredients aid in your skin renewal process by shedding old cells. Additionally, you can add the efficient Niacinamide Serum to your AM routine after it passes the patch test.

Niacinamide supports skin hydration and alleviates inflammation, making it a good match for an AHA BHA Exfoliant. 

The Best Skincare Routine For Acne-Prone Skin

Now that you’re well-versed in the benefits of Niacinamide and AHA BHA for acne-prone skin, let’s build an infallible routine featuring these actives. Scroll ahead -

1. Cleanse well: Cleansing twice a day is non-negotiable regardless of your skin. For acne-prone skin, thorough cleansing removes dirt, dead cells and excess sebum for a smooth surface. Moreover, it facilitates better absorption of your Niacinamide or AHA BHA serums. For folks with acne-prone skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Acne Control Face. The gentle formula expels excess oil, unclogs pores, and soothes inflammation. Moreover, Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide in the cleanser hydrate the skin and uphold the lipid barrier.

2. Treat: Once your skin is dry, apply Foxtale’s Niacinamide (or AHA BHA Serum at night) with a light hand. Don’t aggressively massage the formulation as it may lead to stress or strain on the skin.

3. Moisturize: Once the serum disappears, apply a generous amount of moisturizer. Infused with emollients, a moisturizer seals active ingredients into your skin for best results. Since acne-prone skin is susceptible to greasiness and clogged pores, we recommend Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer. The lightweight formula controls oil and hydrates the skin without adding any weight to your skin.

4. SPF for sun protection: Next, add sunscreen to your morning routine. This formulation shields your skin against harmful UV rays to prevent tanning, burns, pigmentation, and photosensitivity. For acne-prone skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen. The Niacinamide-imbued formula ensures formidable sun protection without clogging pores.

Conclusion:

Achieving clear and healthy skin requires a consistent skincare routine that incorporates effective ingredients such as AHA, BHA, and Niacinamide. Understanding your skin type and concerns before selecting products and always patch-test new products is important. You can achieve the clear and radiant skin you desire with patience and dedication.

FAQs 

1. What are the benefits of using Niacinamide and AHA BHA in your morning/nighttime skincare routine? 

Using Niacinamide and AHA BHA has a myriad of benefits, some of which are listed below   

  • Regulated sebum production  
  • Minimized appearance of pores  
  • Alleviated inflammation or redness   
  • Reduced acne breakouts   

2. Can I use Niacinamide during the day?  

Yes, you can add Niacinamide to your morning skincare routine. Apply it after thoroughly cleansing your face.

3. Does Niacinamide work for all skin types?  

Yes. Niacinamide bodes well for all skin types and here’s how   

  • For oily skin/ acne-prone skin: Niacinamide blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores.   
  • For dry skin: Niacinamide ensures sustained hydration by preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. 
  • For sensitive skin: The topical application of Niacinamide upholds the lipid barrier and soothes inflammation.

4. I have acne-prone skin. Should I use a moisturizer? 

Yes. Using a moisturizer after cleansing is non-negotiable, even for acne-prone skin. A potent moisturizer keeps your skin’s hydration intact and therefore, regulates sebum production. Results? Fewer breakouts.

5. What ingredients should I look for in acne-prone products?

You can seek ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Zinc, Azelaic Acid, and Retinol in your skincare products for acne.

6. Can I pop my pimples?

No, we recommend not doing so. Popping pimples pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, leading to infections and inflammation.

7. What really is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is found in nuts, dairy, and poultry.

8. How should I add Niacinamide to my skincare routine?

You can add Niacinamide to your skincare routine in the form of a serum. The thin, water-like serum percolates deep into the skin to address concerns swiftly. 

9. How does Niacinamide help with acne?

Niacinamide curbs excess sebum, soothes inflammation and unclogs pores – making it a great fit for folks with acne.

10. Are there any side effects to using Niacinamide?

Niacinamide has zero to no side effects. Having said that, some folks may experience redness or inflammation on the ingredient’s topical application. To avoid this, we recommend conducting a patch test before using the serum daily.

11. What concentration of Niacinamide should I use? 

5 to 10% concentration of Niacinamide works well for most skin types without the fear of flare-ups. This is why we recommend opting for Foxtale’s inventive Niacinamide Serum.

Dr Jushya Sarin

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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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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