Retinol: Benefits and how to use Retinol for your skin.

Retinol: Benefits and how to use Retinol for your skin.

Are you looking for a skincare ingredient that’ll boost Collagen, improve the look of fine lines, reduce acne, fight congestion, brighten and get rid of pigmentation? Look to Retinol, an ingredient that promises to do all this—all at the same time. 

What Is Retinol, And Which Kind Should You Be Using? 

When used correctly, retinoids can boost Collagen production, combat breakouts, smoothen uneven texture and fight fine lines. These anti-ageing miracle workers are derivatives of Vitamin A–which is the nutrient responsible for bolstering cell turnover. They are available by prescription at a chemist or in the tubes and tubs you buy from a beauty store. Retinol is a kind of retinoid. It works by converting to the active form (trans-retinoic acid) by using a two-step conversion process. The more steps the type of retinoid needs to convert to this active form, the weaker it is. 

But they are good servants and bad masters—so you’ll want to use a retinoid that’ll work for you. Here are some of the popular retinoids you’ll see on the market. So if you’re looking at a skincare product label, keep this in mind. 

This means that Retinol may take longer to work than a stronger version that doesn’t need to convert (like Adapalene or Tretinoin). But it causes less irritation in the process. 

Benefits of Retinol  

1. Reduce the signs of ageing  

A very interesting thing to know about Retinol is that it enhances cell turnover. This leads to the quicker formation of skin that is plumper and smoother. As you age, the process of cell turnover slows down. Hence it is advised to incorporate retinol in your mid-20s.  

2. Boosts collagen production  

If you're familiar with skincare, you must have heard about Collagen innumerable times. For the ones who are unaware, fret not. Collagen is a protein that is found in the various connective tissues of the body. It improves skin tone and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles. Using Retinol helps increase collagen production, which gives you glowy skin.   

3. Helps in reducing acne 

We're pretty sure we caught your attention at this point. Retinol is known for its ability to effectively eliminate and reduce acne to a huge extent. It is known to inhibit the growth of new pimples and acne. Using Retinol unclogs the pores of your skin, and reduces oil production. Thus, there is less possibility of acne formation.  

4. Brightens dull complexion  

Factors like stress, tanning, pollution, and smoking can make our complexion appear even duller. Retinol works to regulate the production of melanin, a substance that is responsible for the production of pigmentation, and through cell turnover, it helps in brightening your complexion.  

5. Say bye-bye to fine lines and wrinkles  

How does Retinol help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles? It's simple - Collagen. They are responsible for giving your skin a firm and taut appearance. When your body is at a deficit of collagen, it gives rise to fine lines and wrinkles. Luckily, Retinol stimulates the production of collagen, which in turn reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  

6. Helps to even skin tone  

You can now throw a cold shoulder to problems like hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Using Retinol helps improve the overall skin tone and fade pigmentation to give skin that's youthful and even.  

7. Aids in skin exfoliation 

Retinol helps in exfoliating by removing the upper layer of skin that is full of dead cells, giving newer and healthier skin a chance to surface. 

8. The texture of the skin is improved  

An abundance of Collagen and taut skin go hand in hand. When you introduce Retinol in your skincare routine, the rate of cell turnover is increased, meaning old and dull skin is replaced with skin that is soft and radiant.  

9. Reduces sun damage  

Fine, you are guilty of being very lazy with your sunscreen application. But luckily, Retinol is here to save your skin from any further damage that's caused by the sun’s UV rays. It helps get rid of all damaged skin cells and fades brown spots. 

How Can You Use Retinol? 

Less is more. If it’s a gel, lotion or cream, start with a pea-sized amount all over the face. Then, layer it with a serum, moisturiser or oil to stave off dryness. It is best to apply it onto a totally dry face. Then wait for it to totally dry before adding anything on. Phasing it in is a good idea—use it twice a week, and then work up your tolerance. 

What About The Side-Effects Of Retinol? 

With this product, you have to be ready for your skin to look and feel worse for a while, before it gets a LOT better. Initially, you may have to deal with retinisation, which is the period where your skin is adjusting to the increased cell turnover, Collagen and elastin production. During that time, you might find your skin feeling super dry, irritated and prone to peeling, and this could last 4-6 weeks. Eventually, your skin develops a tolerance. However, If you have oily skin, retinization might not hit you as hard—the drying might actually help mattify the skin. 

If you’re prone to acne, you might find that your breakouts have worsened for these first few weeks too. Retinol is causing new cells to come up to the surface, but that might bring with it some trapped oil and debris too, which—when they mingle with the dead skin cells on the surface—might clog pores and cause congestion in the area. Once this is cleared out, things get a little more smooth sailing. If you are purging and want tips on how to deal with acne at the time, read our discussion of what causes breakouts and how you can help them here 

There are some that are nervous about the possible long-term side effects of this ingredient. But there is no definitive evidence that topical retinoids lead to cancer or reproductive toxicity. So doctors still suggest keeping it in your repertoire—as long as you’re dosing correctly and following it up with lots of sunscreen. The only time you’ll have to take a break is when you’re trying to conceive, are expecting or are breastfeeding. It is important to note that actual research with test subjects isn’t really possible in this case. But it is clear that too much Vitamin A can cause issues to the fetus, so doctors will suggest you leave it for after you’re done breastfeeding. 

So, What’s The Alternative? 

For those that have tried low concentration Retinols and found the side-effects overwhelming, research is being done on newer, time-release formulas that give skin time to acclimate before getting to work. If you’re still nervous and want to start with an alternative without some of these concerns, bakuchiol and carrot seed oil are being researched currently, which indicates that they may be able to create similar results (albeit slower), but with less irritation or retinisation. 

Conclusion 

Whether it's a concern related to ageing or acne, Retinol can solve them all. The only thing you need to keep in mind is to be patient when using this product. Slowly introduce the product to your skin to avoid any harsh side effects. You can try using Foxtale’s Retinol Anti Ageing Night Serum to avail the best anti-ageing benefits! When used consistently, Retinol can work wonders.  

FAQs 

1. At what age should I start using retinol? 

You can introduce retinol to your skin in your mid-20s or early 30s.  

2 .Does Retinol slow ageing? 

Yes! Retinol is the magical ingredient for anti ageing. Through the production of collagen, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is reduced which gives you younger-looking skin. 

3. Why should we use retinol at night?  

The simple reason is because of UV rays. If used in the morning, the efficacy of retinol is decreased. At night, cell turnover is at its peak, hence retinol should be applied at night time only.

Isha Rane

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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October 10, 2024

Ingredients To Avoid If You Have Sensitive Skin

Does your skin experience random episodes of flare-ups and inflammation? If yes, it's most likely sensitive. While all skin types come with their unique set of challenges – maintaining sensitive skin is a wee bit harder. You can never anticipate if a product or ingredient will bode well for you in the long run. This is why we always rally for patch tests before zeroing in on a new formulation. On that note, there’s a list of tired ingredients that are a BIG NO-NO for sensitive skin. From chemical preservatives to cleansing agents like SLS, scroll ahead to learn and make an informed decision. But, What Are The Signs Of Sensitive Skin? Sensitivity manifests differently in different folks. Here are some common signs that will help you come to a conclusion. If you have any further confusion, we recommend reaching out to a board-certified dermatologist. - Inflammation or redness - Hives - Rashes - Itching - Small bumps - Scaly or peeling skin What Causes Skin Sensitivity? To alleviate flare-ups, you ought to study your triggers closely. Here are the most common triggers that agitate never endings in your skin’s outermost layer. 1. Dry skin: Dry skin loses moisture molecules to become dehydrated, making it more vulnerable to pollutants, aggressors, and harmful UV rays. 2. Damaged skin: Damaged skin is usually characterized by an impaired lipid barrier. For those unaware, this ‘barrier’ shields the skin against harmful aggressors while maintaining hydration. 3. Weather extremities: Extremely hot or cold weather can also make your skin dry, making way for inflammation, redness, hives and other flare-ups. 4. Harsh skincare and makeup: Skincare, makeup products, and even detergents can strip the skin of moisture, making it dry and prone to flare-ups. 5. Over-cleansing (and over-exfoliation): Cleansing twice daily helps remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the skin. However, overcleaning can dislodge natural oils from the skin, making it feel stripped. This grave oversight in your skincare routine also opens the way for underlying sensitivities. What Are The Ingredients You Should Avoid For Sensitive Skin? If you are certain that have sensitive skin, here’s the list of ingredients you should avoid at all costs - 1. Alcohol: Folks with sensitive skin should steer clear of alcohol-based products. For the unversed, topical application of alcohol dehydrates the skin and damages the lipid barrier. If you have oily skin with underlying sensitivities, alcohol use leads to overproduction of sebum – resulting in more greasiness than ever. 2. Sulphates: Sulphates like SLS and SLES make your skin feel stripped, leading to irritation and inflammation. Additionally, sulphates can trigger allergic reactions like hives, rashes, and dermatitis. 3. Paraben: Paraben, a type of skincare preservative, leads to allergic reactions and skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin, we recommend paraben-free products for your daily rituals. 4. Synthetic dyes: Synthetic dye in products causes inflammation, redness, and hives – especially on sensitive skin. So, before you add to the cart, ensure to check for this value marker. What Is The Best Sensitive Skincare Routine Now that we have covered all the ingredients to avoid, here’s a look at everything that works for sensitive skin. We have built a routine from scratch with a range of Foxtale bestsellers. 1. Cleansing: Just like all skin types, sensitive skin demands cleansing twice daily. The process removes dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores, ensuring a balanced microbiome. If you have sensitive skin, use hydrating, pH-balancing formulas to prevent episodes of inflammation, redness and rashes like this Foxtale product. Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash ensures a thorough cleanse without making your skin feel stripped. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that replenish your dermis’ moisture levels. Moreover, the face wash doubles as an efficient makeup remover. It is packed with gentle surfactants that dissolve SPF and every trace of makeup. Alternatively, if you are experiencing breakouts, use Foxtale’s face wash for pimples. 2. Treatment: Pick a treatment based on your skin’s most pressing concern. If you want to double down on hydration, try Foxtale’s Daily Hydrating Serum. It contains 6 humectants that ensure 6X more hydration for the skin while fighting inflammation. You can also try our Niacinamide Serum to uphold the lipid barrier and replenish your skin’s moisture levels. For brightening, try Vitamin C, for dark spots and pigmentation, try Tranexamic Acid, and for acne-control use AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. 3. Moisturize: After using the treatment, opt for a dollop of moisturizer. A potent moisturizing formula seals treatment and hydration into the skin for prolonged periods. Moreover, this skincare staple soothes inflammation, defers ageing, and makes your skin soft and smooth. Folks with sensitive skin can try Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream. It leverages ERS Technology to hydrate, nourish, and heal your skin. 4. Sun protection: If your sunscreen is causing inexplicable breakouts, it’s time for a switch up – try Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen. The lightweight formula glides easily on the skin and doesn’t leave behind the unwanted white residue. Moreover, D-Panthenol and Vitamin E at the forefront ensure multi-level and long-lasting moisturization for the skin. Is your skin on the oilier side? Use Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen. Moreover, our Ultra-matte Sunscreen makes for a great addition to skin care products for combination skin. FAQs 1. How to care for sensitive skin? If you have sensitive skin, bear the following pointers in mind - Use a gentle, pH-balancing cleanser - Pick non-comedogenic, lightweight moisturizer - Try formulas infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramide for maximum hydration - Add barrier-loving ingredients to your skincare - Never step out without sunscreen 2. Can sensitive skin use Salicylic Acid? The simple answer is yes. Salicylic Acid is a mild exfoliant that removes excess oil, alleviates acne and soothes inflammation. 3. Is Niacinamide good for sensitive skin? Yes. Niacinamide is good fit for folks with sensitive skin. The active ingredient soothes inflammation, ensures hydration, and upholds the lipid barrier. 4. Is Hyaluronic Acid good for sensitive skin? Yes. The lack of hydration makes your skin vulnerable to inflammation, redness, hives and more. Hyaluronic Acid or HA bind moisture molecules to the skin, preventing these problems.

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October 10, 2024

How To Use Niacinamide For Sensitive Skin

Niacinamide is one active ingredient that bodes well for all skin types. For oily skin, topical application of Niacinamide zaps the excess sebum. Similarly, for dry skin, it puts a sturdy lock on hydration. Since the active ingredient caters to both oily and dry parts, it is one of the best skincare products for combination skin too. Versatile indeed. Well, this blog brings all the benefits Niacinamide extends to sensitive skin. For those unaware, sensitive skin is more prone to inflammation, irritation, and other flare-ups. This happens when external stimuli (like pollutants, aggressors or harsh chemicals) irritate the nerve ending on the dermis. Let’s see how Niacinamide comes into the picture to save the day. How To Discern If Your Skin Type Is Sensitive Before employing Niacinamide in your daily routine, it's important to discern if your skin type is sensitive. Here are some factors to consider - Irritation on the skin - Unbearable itchiness - Redness - Hives - Flaky, rough skin - Dry patches that don’t seem to go away Sensitivity manifests differently in different individuals. If you’re still confused, consult with a board-certified dermatologist ASAP. Let’s see how Niacinamide can help sensitive skin, but only after a refresher on the active ingredient A form of Vitamin B3, Niacinamide is found in fish, nuts and other forms of poultry. It is water-soluble in nature, i.e. your body flushes out any surplus of the active ingredient. Apart from your skin, Niacinamide plays an important role in energy metabolism and cell health. Why Is Niacinamide A Great Pick For Sensitive Skin Folks? So, how and why Niacinamide work wonders for sensitive skin, let’s find out - 1. Niacinamide upholds the lipid barrier: For those unaware, the skin barrier serves as the first line of defence for the body – averting aggressors, pollutants, and pathogens. Think of this barrier as a masonry wall where corneocytes (or dead cells) are the bricks and lipids (re: Ceramides, Fatty Acids, and Cholesterol) make the binding mortar. So, if the integrity of this barrier were compromised, your skin would become more prone to flare-ups. Luckily, the topical application of Niacinamide bolsters this barrier by improving Ceramide production in skin cells. 2. Niacinamide preserves skin hydration: Dry or dehydrated skin is more prone to underlying sensitivities. To help seal maximum hydration into your skin, opt for Niacinamide regularly. This active ingredient sits on the dermis and prevents TEWL or transepidermal water loss. 3. Niacinamide fights oxidative stress: For those unaware, Niacinamide possesses antioxidant properties – making it the perfect choice for sensitive skin folks. The active ingredients sit on the dermis to neutralize free radicals, preventing ageing and damage. 4. Niacinamide improves skin immunity: Keratin maintains your skin’s structure and accelerates its healing. An ample amount of this protein is indispensable to your skin’s overall health and immunity. If your skin’s keratin levels get depleted, you can use Niacinamide to revive them. The Best Niacinamide Serum For Sensitive Skin Now that you’re well-versed in the benefits of Niacinamide, why not pick a formula for your sensitive skincare routine? Try Foxtale’s 12% Clarifying Niacinamide Serum STAT. You can use this innovative formula in your morning/evening skincare rituals or before donning a full face of makeup. Wonder why? Let’s take a look - 1. Formulated with Double Encapsulation Technology, the serum delivers Niacinamide molecules to the targeted areas—for better efficacy/ 2. The unique formula is the perfect precusor to your makeup look. Apply it during skin prep to minimize pores and cloak bumpy texture. 3. If you’ve oily skin with underlying sensitivities, this product should be on your radar. It grants your skin an oil-free radiance. 4. Moreover, the lightweight, potent formula prevents clogged pores, soothes redness, fades pigmentation, blurs blemishes, and reduces acne scars with use. How To Build A Sensitive Skincare Routine With Niacinamide? To reap the maximum benefits of Niacinamide for sensitive skin, you must adhere to a solid skincare routine day in and day out. Here’s how you can do it - 1. Start with cleansing: Cleansing twice a day is non-negotiable to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the skin. For sensitive skin, you should seek a soothing and pH-balancing formula like Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It guarantees you a thorough cleanse without making your skin feel stripped. Moreover, Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extracts in the formula improve your skin’s water-holding capacity. If your skin is on the oilier side, try our Salicylic Acid Face Wash a.k.a. Acne Control Face Wash. How to use: Take a coin-sized amount of the formula and gently scrub your face. After 30 seconds, use lukewarm or cold water to rinse off. 2. Appy Niacinamide: Dab your skin dry with a clean towel and apply 2 to 3 pumps of the Niacinamide Serum. Use a light hand for application to minimize any stress or strain on the skin. How to use: To ensure the efficacy of your Niacinamide Serum, never apply it on damp skin. 3. Create a moisture blanket: After the treatment sinks in, use a rich layer of moisturizer to seal the Niacinamide molecules. Folks with sensitive skin can try Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream. The unique formula uses ERS (Enhance-Repair-Seal) technology to nourish, heal, and hydrate your skin. How to use: Take a dollop of the repair cream and massage it gently. Use small, circular motions of the fingertips to make your skin firm and taut. 4. Apply SPF: Since sensitive skin is more reactive, you must protect it against harmful UV rays. Try Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen for your daily routine. The non-greasy formula ensures formidable sun protection and bestows a beautiful dewy finish on the skin. Moreover, D-Panthenol and Vitamin E ensure long-lasting moisturization of the skin. How to use: Apply two fingers’ worth of sunscreen approximately 20 minutes before stepping outdoors. Reapply every two hours for robust sun protection. FAQs 1. Does Niacinamide reduce pigmentation? Yes. Niacinamide reduces pigmentation and dark spots by reducing melanin concentration in skin cells. 2. Is Niacinamide good for sensitive skin? Niacinamide is a great choice for folks with sensitive skin. It upholds the barrier, ensures sustained hydration, soothes inflammation, and improves your skin’s immunity. 3. Can I use Niacinamide with Hyaluronic Acid? Yes. You can pair Niacinamide with Hyaluronic Acid to double down on skin hydration.

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September 26, 2024

How To Reduce Skin Sensitivity?

According to studies, at least 50% of the female population experience some form of skin sensitivity. For those unaware – sensitivity occurs when your skin experiences inexplicable flare-ups, redness, inflammation, hives, etc. due to internal or external factors. These episodes not only impact your appearance but also hamper your emotional well-being. And the best way to keep these woes at bay is by adhering to a solid AM/PM ritual. If you are a sensitive skin girlie, keep scrolling for surefire solutions to reduce these flare-ups. We help you with the best products (or ingredients) and an infallible daily skincare routine for the best results. What Does Sensitive Skin Look Like? Sensitivity can manifest in different forms - Irritated or itchy skin - Bumps or painful boils - Dry, flaky texture - Red, inflamed skin - Hives What Are The Different Causes For Skin Sensitivity? Before looking for the best sensitive skin products, it is important to recognize the triggers. This intermediate step will help streamline efforts for great skin. 1. Dry skin: When skin lacks moisture, it becomes more prone to inflammation, irritation and other flare-ups. 2. A compromised lipid barrier: The lipid barrier acts as the first line of defence for your body. Think of it as a literal masonry wall, where dead cells act as bricks and lipids (Ceramides, Fatty Acids, and Cholesterol) serve as mortar. So, if this barrier's integrity were compromised, the skin would have to bear the brunt of pollutants, irritants, and other aggressors. 3. Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal imbalances also lead to sensitivity. This is why you may experience sudden flare-ups during mensuration or pregnancy. 4. Harmful soaps and detergents: Certain skincare products dislodge moisture molecules from the skin, making it dry and uncomfortably tight. This is why we recommend avoiding ingredients like artificial dyes, alcohol and sulfates in your everyday routine. 5. Overwashing: Overwashing can wipe out natural oils from the skin, making it dry. This makes your skin more susceptible to redness, inflammation, and other flare-ups. 6. Over-exfoliation: Contrary to common understanding, sensitive skin requires regular exfoliation. For the unversed, exfoliation involves dissolving dead cells, debris and other forms of buildup to reveal a smooth, even surface sitting underneath. However, over-exfoliation is a big no no! It dehydrates the skin, marrs the lipid barrier and leads to inflammation or irritation. What Ingredients Can You Use For Sensitive Skin? If you’re wondering what ingredients you can or cannot use for sensitive skin – you have landed on the right page. Scroll ahead to learn more - 1. Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic Acid is a potent humectant that binds water molecules to the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration. It promotes barrier health and offsets inflammation – making it a great choice for sensitive skin folks. Our recommendation: Foxtale’s Daily Hydrating Serum Infused with six humectants, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine, Alpha-Bisabolol, Red Algae Extract, D-Panthenol and Aqua Porin Boosters – this serum ensures 6X hydration for the skin. The topical application of this formula reduces fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet while restoring your skin’s youthful appearance. Grab one of the best dry skin care products only at INR 549. 2. Niacinamide: If you grapple with sensitive skin, active ingredient Niacinamide for skin should be on your radar. It helps double down on hydration by preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. Moreover, Niacinamide reinforces barrier function by booting the production of Ceramides and Elastin – dramatically reducing the flare-ups. Our recommendation: Foxtale’s 5% Niacinamide Serum The creamy formula blurs pores and cloaks blemishes, creating a smooth, even surface. It preserves hydration, boosts barrier health and reduces the frequency of flare-ups in sensitive skin. Use this Niacinamide Serum to crack that gorgeous, matte finish. 3. Ceramide: Ceramide helps rejuvenate sensitive skin in multiple ways. It strengthens the lipid barrier, prevents water loss, soothes inflammation, blocks sun-induced damage and averts free radicals. Our recommendation: Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides Imbued with Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and Olive Oil, this moisturizer ensures intense hydration for your skin. Moreover, super ingredient Ceramide puts a sturdy lock on the hydration to prevent TEWL. It sits on the skin barrier with Vitamin E to fend off UV rays, aggressors, pollutants, and free radicals. 4. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is often dubbed the holy grail of brightening. It inhibits melanin production in skin cells, fading dark spots and pigmentation over time. But very few know of the active ingredient’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. That's right – topical application of Vitamin C reduces flare-ups and shields the skin against menacing aggressors. Our recommendation: Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum This emollient-rich formula ensures long-lasting moisturization while averting harmful UV rays, pollutants and free radicals. The best part? Our serum uses unique gel-trap technology that combines water-soluble Vitamin C with oil-soluble Vitamin E for maximum efficacy. Best Routine To Reduce Sensitive Skin Admittedly, skin sensitivity cannot be completely reversed. But with a solid morning and nighttime skincare, you can prevent recurring flare-ups. Here’s how you can build a simple yet effective routine with some of Foxtale's bestsellers - 1. Cleanse X2: Cleansing twice daily is non-negotiable regardless of the skin type. It removes dirt, grime, and other buildup to ensure a healthy, balanced microbiome for the skin. For sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. This formula offers a thorough cleanse without making your skin feel stripped. Moreover, Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract improve your skin’s water-holding capacity. 2. Treat: Next, use a result-oriented to address your skin’s concern. You may try our Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Niacinamide Serum to elevate barrier health. For dark spots or pigmentation, try Foxtale’s Vitamin C. Alternatively, for exfoliating dullness, try our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. 3. Seal with moisturizer: Use a potent moisturizer to seal this treatment! For sensitive skin folks, we recommend Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream. It uses ERS technology to hydrate, nourish, and heal your skin. 4. Sun protection: Continued exposure to UV rays can also flare up skin sensitivities. To prevent this problem, we recommend using Foxtale’s Dewy Finish Sunscreen. Only two fingers’ worth of the SPF prevents burns, tanning, pigmentation, and photoaging. Moreover, D-Panthenol and Vitamin E in this SPF ensure multi-level moisturization for the skin.

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September 26, 2024

What Are The Four Types Of Sensitive Skin And How To Care For It?

In simple terms, sensitive skin is more reactive to abrasive chemicals, weather changes, and other environmental factors. It occurs when the nerves on your skin’s outermost layer get agitated resulting in reddening, rashes, and inflammation on the outside. While there are a bunch of different symptoms, the best way to discern if you have sensitive skin or not is to see a board-certified dermatologist. This is because infallible knowledge about your skin type and its underlying concerns makes it easier to streamline your routine efforts. In this blog, we explore the different types of sensitive skin and how to take care of it. We also help you with the best formulations to maintain and elevate this skin type. What Are The Four Types Of Sensitive Skin? There are four different types of sensitive skin. Scroll ahead to learn more - 1. Naturally Sensitive Skin: Naturally sensitive skin occurs when your skin is genetically predisposed to flare-ups. This type of sensitivity is usually correlated with concerns like eczema and rosacea. While there are products/medications to alleviate this concern, one cannot eliminate the problem. 2. Environmentally Sensitive Skin: If your skin cannot tolerate extreme temperature changes, continued sun exposure or air pollution – you most likely have sensitive skin. Environmentally sensitive skin experiences an uncomfortable burning or stinging sensation upon encountering these external stimuli. 3. Reactive Sensitive Skin: Have you observed your skin flaring up due to certain skincare, makeup products or detergents? If yes, it turns out you have reactive sensitive skin. You might experience tiny bumps, redness or even itchiness on the topical application of these irritants. 4. Mature or Thin Sensitive Skin: As you age, your skin becomes thinner. This dip in Collagen production also causes a decrease in natural moisturization – making your skin susceptible to irritants, allergens and more. What Are Some Tips And Tricks To Care For Sensitive Skin? We are bringing forth a Foxtale-approved list of tips and tricks to help uphold sensitive skin. Bear these pointers in mind for the best results - 1. Gentle, pH-balancing formulas: We know that cleansing twice daily is non-negotiable. It removes dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores, ensuring a healthy skin microbiome. For sensitive skin, you need a gentle formula that doesn’t make your skin feel stripped. 2. Cleanse but don’t go overboard: Over cleansing (or over-exfoliation for that matter) can dislodge natural oils from the dermis, making it feel extremely dry and uncomfortably tight. This grave oversight also makes your skin more vulnerable to allergens and irritants. 3. Conduct a patch test: Always conduct a patch test before adding any serum/treatment to your routine. If your skin responds well, start using the treatment only thrice a week to eliminate further risks. 4. Avoid hot showers: As tempting as they may seem, hot showers zap the moisture from your skin’s outermost layer, making it more vulnerable to flare-ups. So, if you are a sensitive skin girlie, we recommend restricting hot showers. Instead, use cold or lukewarm water to maintain your skin’s microbiome. 5, Never skimp on moisturizer: Moisturization is key for healthy, happy skin. An efficacious blend of emollients and occlusives, moisturizer forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. It also plays a pivotal role in countering inflammation and making your skin appear smooth and soft. For sensitive skin, look for breathable formulas that don’t clog your pores. 6. Simplify your skincare: Thumb rule for maintaining sensitive skin – simplify your daily skincare. Steer clear of redundant routines that make you slather multiple formulas on the skin. Instead, opt for a 4-step simple yet effective routine that addresses concerns while reducing the stress of flareups. The Best Skincare Routine For Sensitive Skin If you grapple with sensitive skin, here’s a no-fuss, no-frills routine that you can follow. As seen earlier – the best way to reduce episodes of flare-ups is by simplifying your skincare. Let’s try the same with Foxtale’s range of high-performing, innovative and safe formulations. 1. Cleanse: Start by gently cleansing your face to remove buildup. For sensitive skin, we recommend one of the best dry skin care products – our Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that intensely replenish your skin’s moisture bank. The best part? This cleanser also doubles as a makeup remover. It contains gentle surfactants that melt every trace of makeup and SPF. 2. Treat: After your skin is dry, apply a result-oriented formula. Since sensitivity mostly arises from extreme dryness or impaired barrier – we recommend Foxtale’s Niacinamide for skin. The lightweight formula ensures sustained hydration, prevents clogged pores and soothes inflammation while bolstering the lipid barrier. That’s right. The serum’s topical application increases Ceramide production in the skin cells, forming approximately 50% of the barrier. 3. Moisturize: To help seal this treatment, use a hydrating, soothing, and non-comedogenic moisturizer. For sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Barrier Repair Cream. It uses ERS technology to deeply nourish, hydrate and heal your skin. Take a dollop of the formula and massage it onto your skin. Don’t forget to cover your ears, neck and decollete areas. 4. Sun protect: Regardless of your skin type, sun protection is crucial. A broad-spectrum sunscreen shields the skin against harmful UV rays, preventing episodes of burns, tanning, pigmentation, and photoaging. For sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen. It contains D-Panthenol and Vitamin E that ensure long-lasting moisturization for the skin. FAQs 1. What is sensitive skin? Sensitive skin is more prone to flare-ups. Based on the stimuli, sensitive skin may face reddening, inflammation, hives, painful bumps and more. 2. Is sensitive skin always dry? Dryness can often lead to sensitivities. Having said that, underlying sensitivity is common in all skin types like oily, combination, and acne prone. 3. Does sensitive skin need a moisturizer? Yes. All skin types need moisturizer including sensitive. For sensitive skin, we recommend a lightweight and non-comedogenic formula that ensures multi-level hydration while upholding barrier health - like Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream. It uses ERS (enhance-replenish-seal) technology to heal, hydrate, and nourish your skin.

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September 2, 2024

Best Products For Sensitive Skin

Out of all skin types, sensitive skin is the trickiest to maintain. For those unaware, sensitive skin experiences flare-ups on account of external stimuli. And until you are well-versed in these triggers, skincare shopping for sensitive skin can be a hit or a miss. Tricky alright. To help streamline efforts for good skin, we are bringing you the best sensitive skin products. These high-performing, innovative, and safe products will elevate your daily routine exponentially. But before we reveal this cheat sheet, let's understand sensitive skin, its symptoms, and its many triggers. Skin that experiences inexplicable episodes of flareups or inflammation is most likely sensitive. Whether your skin type is dry, oily or combination – you can face underlying sensitivities that affect your appearance and mental wellbeing. What Are Some Signs Of Sensitive Skin? Sensitivity can manifest in different forms in different individuals. Here are the most common symptoms of sensitive skin 1. Agitated skin 2. Inflammation 3. Hives 4. Painful bumps 5. Cracks and flakiness 6. Dry, rough splotches all over What Are Some Causes Of Sensitive Skin? To treat underlying sensitivities, one must recognize their triggers. Foxtale is helping you in this endeavor—listing the most common reasons for sensitive skin 1. Dry skin: Dryness can make your skin more susceptible to pollutants, impurities and other aggressors. 2. An impaired lipid barrier: The lipid barrier is your skin’s outermost layer. It plays an important role in retaining water (skin hydration) and keeping aggressors at bay. If the integrity of this wall gets damaged, your skin becomes prone to flare-ups etc. So, if you wish to treat underlying sensitivities, ensure to fortify the lipid or skin barrier. 3. Cold weather: Cold temperatures and winds zap water content from the skin, making your skin more sensitive than usual. 4. Harsh and abrasive skincare: Ingredients like Sulfates, alcohol and dyes can irritate the skin. They can harm the lipid barrier, dry your skin and cause inflammation. 5. Jewels and clothes: Since jewels and clothes are in constant contact with your skin, be extremely cautious while picking them out. Nickle, brass, and copper may irritate your skin, causing hives and redness. Nylon and wool cause underlying sensitivities to flare up in many individuals. 6. Overwashing or over-exfoliation: Overwashing or over-exfoliation can dislodge natural oils from the skin, making it dry and susceptible to underlying sensitivities. Best Sensitive Skin Products On Foxtale After identifying your triggers, ensure to load up on the best face products for sensitive skin 1. Start with cleanser: A potent cleanser for underlying sensitivities helps restore skin’s pH balance, soothes inflammation, and ensures multi-level hydration. Our Hydrating Face Wash checks all these boxes and how. It’s meticulous yet gentle – removing dirt, grime and impurities without making the skin feel stripped. Moreover, Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract in the formula improve your skin’s water-holding capacity. The best part? You can use this multitasking offering to melt makeup and SPF from the pores without any worries. How Often Should I Cleanse For Sensitive Skin: There are a lot of myths surrounding cleansing for sensitive skin. To reiterate – regardless of your skin type, cleaning in your morning and nighttime routine is non-negotiable. How To Use Cleanser For Sensitive Skin: Using a coin-sized amount of Foxtale’s face wash, gently massage your face for 30 seconds. Go in for a double cleanse with cold water. Don’t scrub your face too hard as it may strain the skin. 2. Treat Your Skin: Serums are power packed with active ingredient(s) that seep into the skin to address concerns. For folks with sensitive skin, we recommend conducting a patch test before introducing a new serum or treatment into your daily routine. From Foxtale’s efficacious range, we recommend the Hydrating Serum and Niacinamide Serum. These formulas help preserve hydration, uphold the barrier, and reduce inflammation or redness. Foxtale’s Retinol Serum price of 599 is also safe for the sensitive skin type. Use it to fight wrinkles and fine lines. Similarly, use Vit C for brightening, Tranexamic Acid for dark spots, and AHA BHA for dullness. How Often Should I Apply Serum: You can use the Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide Serum in your morning or evening skincare routine. These active ingredients have zero to no side effects and are dubbed safe for daily use. How To Use Serum For Sensitive Skin: After a successful patch test, try using the serum thrice a week – just to be cautious. Take 2 to 3 pumps of the Foxtale formulation and dab it onto your skin. Wait for this serum to absorb completely before moving on to the next step. 3. Seal And Satiate: Before picking a moisturizer for sensitive skin – ensure the formula is non-greasy, lightweight, and non-comedogenic, like our in-house offering. Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream has been crafted for dry and sensitive skin. It uses ERS (Enhance-Repair-Seal) technology to hydrate, nourish, and heal the dermis. How Often Should I Apply Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin: Use this Foxtale moisturizer twice daily – in your morning and nighttime skincare routine. If you're skimping on serum/treatment, you may apply the moisturizer on damp skin. This will help seal maximum hydration into the skin. How To Use Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin: Take a dollop of Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream and massage it on your skin. We recommend using upward, circular motions of the fingertips to infuse the formula into your skin. 4. Sun Protect With SPF: For those unaware, UV radiation can make your skin dry and dehydrated. To prevent this problem, we recommend Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen. The lightweight and non-greasy formula applies like a dream, without any pull or friction. It ensures formidable sun protection while keeping your skin moisturized with D-Panthenol and Vitamin E. What we love the most is the radiant, dewy finish this SPF bestows on the skin. How Often Should You Use Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin: Use Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen in your AM or morning skincare routine. How To Use Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin: Take two fingers’ worth of sunscreen and apply it on your face, neck, and ears. To double down on sun protection, we recommend using hats, scarves and caps during the day. Remember you need sunscreen on cloudy or overcast days too.

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