Ingredients To Avoid If You Have Sensitive Skin

September 26, 2024

By Srishty Singh

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.

August 30, 2024

By Srishty Singh

If you experience out-of-the-blue inflammation, dryness or irritation on the skin – you most likely have sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is not an underlying concern but a skin type with several internal and external triggers. In this blog, we help you understand this skin type, list its common triggers, and help you with the best sensitive skin care products. How To Recognize If You Have Sensitive Skin? The best way to decipher whether you have sensitive skin is by consulting a dermatologist. Having said that, here are some symptoms of skin sensitivity that you can look out for 1. Irritation or itchiness 2. Redness or inflammation 3. Hives 4. Flakiness 5. Dry and rough patches all over the skin What Skin Conditions Tie With Sensitivity? Certain skin types (or conditions) are more prone to sensitivity and hence, flare ups. 1. Dry skin: Dryness occurs when your skin rapidly loses water to become dehydrated. This lack of moisture content makes the skin vulnerable to irritants and other aggressors. 2. A weakened skin barrier: In most instances, sensitive skin is characterized by a weakened lipid barrier. For those unaware, the lipid or skin barrier is the first line of defence for your body. It plays a crucial role in shielding the skin against aggressors, pollutants, dirt, grime, etc. Moreover, the barrier preserves hydration in your skin for its soft, supple appearance. So, when this shield (if you may) gets damaged or marred, the skin is more prone to sensitivity. Does Sensitivity Occur Only In Dry Skin? Contrary to common belief, all skin types can experience sensitivity. If you are grappling with underlying concerns, we recommend tweaking your daily skincare accordingly. What Are Some Triggers For Sensitive Skin? Before you build a sensitive skin routine – it's important to recognize the triggers that cause the bumps, hives or inflammation on the skin. Ahead, we list the most common sensitive skin triggers. 1. Extreme temperature or weather conditions: Cold weather can zap the moisture from your skin, making it dehydrated. This may give rise to inexplicable episodes of skin sensitivity. 2. Pollution and other aggressors: Continued exposure to pollutants, UV rays and other aggressors can marr the barrier over time, resulting in sensitive skin. 3. Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation can make the skin more prone to sensitivity. 4. Certain skincare products: Alcohol-infused skincare, heavily fragranced formulas and specific preservatives can irritate the skin, leading to flareups. 5. Overwashing or over-exfoliating: Over washing can dislodge natural oils from the skin, making it dry and uncomfortably tight. 6. Stressful life: Stress can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to hives, bumps, redness and other concerns. 7. Clothing and accessories: Clothing and accessories in contact with your skin may lead to sensitivity. What Are Some Tips And Tricks To Maintain Sensitive Skin? Before we reveal the best routine for sensitive skin, here are some tips and tricks one should bear in mind - 1. Simplify your skincare: Folks with underlying sensitivities should revisit their daily skincare routine. We recommend steering clear of redundancy or multiple formulas that don’t bear favourable results. 2. Gentle, pH-balancing formulas: The lipid barrier or acid mantle boasts a slightly acidic pH. To uphold this wall of defence, we recommend using gentle, pH-balancing formulas. 3. Pick alcohol and Sulfate-devoid products: If you struggle with skin sensitivity on the reg, discard formulations with alcohol and Sulfate STAT. These ingredients can marr the barrier, dehydrate the skin and cause inexplicable flare-ups. 4. Always conduct patch test: Before introducing a new serum or active-infused formula to your routine, we recommend conducting a patch test on the neck. 5. Use hydrating skincare: Use humectant-powered formulas that prevent dryness and reinforce the lipid barrier. This little addition to your routine will reduce flare-ups, inflammation, irritation and more. We recommend ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Lactic Acid and more. 6. Breathable, non-comedogenic moisturizers: Complete your skincare routine with a lightweight, breathable and non-comedogenic moisturizer. Clogged pores pave the way for menacing blackheads, whiteheads, and even acne. 7. Always remove makeup before bed: To avoid flare-ups or inflammation on the skin – remove your makeup before sleeping. Moreover, the skin slips into repair mode at night, shedding cells and cueing healthy regeneration. A layer of makeup on the skin can hamper this renewal process. The Best Skincare Routine For Sensitive Routine 1. Start by cleansing: Cleansing removes dirt, grime and dead cells from the pores, ensuring a healthy skin microbiome. For sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that replenish your skin’s moisture reservoir. The innovative face wash is gentle and doesn’t disrupt your skin’s natural pH. The best part? This cleanser also doubles as an efficient makeup remover. Its formula is packed with gentle surfactants that remove every trace of makeup and SPF. 2. Move to treatment: Once your skin is dry, apply a treatment of choice. For sensitive skin, you may pick between Foxtale’s Daily Hydrating Serum and serum Niacinamide. Take 2 to 3 pumps of the formulation and dab it on your skin. 3. Moisturize and Seal: After the serum absorbs into the skin, apply a dollop of a nourishing moisturizer. Pick a non-comedogenic, lightweight and hydrating formula that helps counter flare-ups. We recommend Foxtale’s innovative Skin Repair Cream for your daily routine. It uses ERS or Enhance-Replenish- Seal technology to hydrate and heal the skin. E- Humectants bind water molecules to the skin and uphold the lipid barrier R- NMF or Natural Moisturizing Factors transfer moisture content from the skin’s deepest layer to the dermis S- Emollients in the cream form a protective barrier on the dermis, preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. 4. Sun protection: Sun protection is vital for all skin types and sensitive skin is no exception. Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen provides formidable protection against harmful UV rays. Moreover, D-Panthenol and Vitamin E ensure long-lasting hydration for the skin while preventing episodes of photodamage.

April 3, 2023

By Srishty Singh

Sensitive skin and sensitized skin are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different conditions. Sensitive skin is classified as a skin type, whereas sensitized skin is a skin condition that can impact any skin type. Understanding the difference is essential for proper skincare and avoiding further irritation. Here is the difference between sensitive and sensitized skin: Sensitive Skin Sensitized Skin Is a skin type that is genetically determined. Is a skin condition that can affect any skin type. Reacts easily to external stimuli such as weather, certain products, and stress. Develops due to external factors such as harsh products, pollution, or climate changes. May experience discomfort, redness, or itching on a regular basis. May experience similar symptoms to sensitive skin, but the reaction is temporary and not consistent. Needs gentle and non-irritating skincare products. Requires identifying and eliminating the triggers and using gentle products to restore the skin's barrier function. Sensitive skin care and sensitive skin type: Sensitive skin is a skin type that is characterized by a heightened reaction to certain stimuli, such as harsh chemicals, fragrances, or extreme weather conditions. People with sensitive skin may experience redness, itching, and dryness, among other symptoms. Sensitive skin is often genetic and can be present from birth. On the other hand, sensitized skin is a condition that can occur when the skin's natural protective barrier is compromised. Several factors can contribute to this, like excessive use of skincare products, exposure to environmental irritants, or undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. When the skin's barrier is compromised, it becomes more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. It's important to note that sensitized skin is a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of the skin type. However, sensitive skin is a specific skin type that requires significant consideration. Even people with normally resilient skin can experience sensitized skin at some point in their lives. Pro tips on sensitive skin treatment: Sensitive skin requires a gentle approach when it comes to skincare. It is prone to reactions from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and other irritants. Extra caution should be taken by individuals with sensitive skin when choosing skincare products and applying them. Pro tips on sensitive skin treatment may include avoiding ingredients that can irritate the skin, such as alcohol and sulfates, and choosing products with natural ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. Hydrating and safeguarding the skin barrier is essential for sensitive skin, which can be achieved through the use of moisturizers. Other tips may include avoiding hot water, using sunscreen, and maintaining a healthy diet to support your skin's health. Skincare for sensitive skin Skincare for sensitive skin involves using products and practices that are gentle and non-irritating to the skin. Sensitive skin can react easily to harsh chemicals, fragrances, and other irritants commonly found in skincare products, which can lead to redness, inflammation, and other uncomfortable symptoms. To care for sensitive skin, it's important to choose products specifically formulated for sensitive skin types and avoid ingredients that can cause irritation. This may include using fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products, avoiding harsh exfoliants, and being gentle when cleansing and applying products. Additionally, it's important to pay attention to any changes or reactions in the skin and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. FAQs 1.What causes skin sensitivity? Skin sensitivity can be attributed to genetic factors or may be a result of certain skincare routines. If you experience symptoms such as redness, burning, itching, or a tingling sensation after using a product, it could be due to a reaction to the ingredients in the product or the routine itself. 2.How does sensitized skin present itself? Sensitized skin may exhibit symptoms such as acne, enlarged pores, heat rashes, and flakiness. 3.Is there a cure for sensitive skin? Sensitive skin is not a condition that can be cured. However, with proper care and the use of gentle, nourishing products, it can be managed effectively. Conclusion: It is essential to distinguish between sensitive skin and sensitized skin to identify the appropriate skincare routine. While sensitive skin is a genetic predisposition, sensitized skin is a temporary condition caused by external factors. Identifying the triggers and using gentle skincare products can help manage both conditions and promote healthy skin.

April 1, 2023

By Srishty Singh

Your skin acts as a barrier against the sun, pollution, and bacteria, and it's vital to care for it to maintain a healthy and youthful appearance. Before establishing a skincare routine, you must identify your skin type. This blog will cover the importance of determining your skin type, how to analyze it, and developing a personalized skincare regimen. Why Should You Know The Skin Type Before Taking Up Any Skincare Routine? Your skin type is unique and determines the type of care it needs. Using products that are not suitable for your skin type can cause more harm than good. For example, using a product that is too harsh on sensitive skin can cause inflammation, redness, and even breakouts. Conversely, using a product that is not hydrating enough on dry skin can lead to flakiness, dullness, and premature ageing. By understanding your skin type, you can choose the right products that will help you achieve your skincare goals without compromising your skin's health. How To Analyze The Skin Type? Analyzing your skin type is a simple process that you can do at home. Here are the steps to follow: Step 1: Wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Step 2: Wait for an hour without applying any product or touching your face. Step 3: Observe your skin and determine its type based on the following characteristics: If your skin feels tight, rough, and flaky, you have dry skin. If your skin looks shiny and greasy, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), you have oily skin. If your skin is oily in the T-zone but dry on the cheeks, you have combination skin. If your skin feels well-balanced, neither too oily nor too dry, you have normal skin. And lastly, if your skin is easily irritated, red, and prone to rashes, you have sensitive skin. What Is My Skin Type? Now that you know the characteristics of each skin type, you can determine your skin type based on the observations you made in step 3. Here is a more detailed explanation of each skin type: 1. Dry Skin: This skin type lacks moisture and can feel tight, rough, and flaky. It is often caused by genetics, ageing, or environmental factors such as cold weather, low humidity, or harsh soaps. 2. Oily Skin: This skin type produces excess sebum, which makes it look shiny and greasy. It is often caused by genetics, hormonal changes, or environmental factors such as hot weather or humidity. 3. Combination Skin: This skin type is a mix of dry and oily skin. It is often caused by genetics, hormonal changes, or environmental factors such as hot weather or humidity. 4. Normal Skin: This skin type is well-balanced and not too oily or dry. It is often caused by genetics, a healthy lifestyle, and good hydration and diet. 5. Sensitive Skin: This skin type is easily irritated and prone to rashes, redness, and itching. It is often caused by genetics, allergies, or environmental factors such as harsh chemicals, fragrances, or UV radiation. Here Are Some Guidelines For The Best Skincare Routine To Follow Based On Your Skin Type: 1. Normal skin: Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, moisturize with a lightweight lotion, and apply sunscreen. 2. Oily skin: Cleanse with a foaming cleanser, moisturize with an oil-free moisturizer, and apply sunscreen. 3. Dry skin: Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, moisturize with a rich cream, and apply sunscreen with added moisturizer. 4. Combination skin: Cleanse with a gentle foaming cleanser, moisturize with a lightweight lotion, and apply sunscreen. 5. Sensitive skin: Cleanse with a non-irritating cleanser, moisturize with a sensitive moisturizer, and apply sunscreen with physical blockers. ConclusionIdentifying your skin type and developing a personalized skincare routine can transform your skin. By understanding your skin's unique needs, you can effectively address issues and achieve a healthy, glowing complexion. Take the time to discover your skin's secrets and enjoy the benefits of a perfect skincare routine.

March 15, 2023

By Srishty Singh

When it comes to choosing skincare for sensitive skin, it's all about being gentle and using products that won't cause irritation or breakouts. A simple routine with a gentle cleanser, a mild exfoliant, and a non-comedogenic moisturizer can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated. When selecting skincare products for sensitive skin, it's essential to read labels and avoid ingredients that can cause irritation. Fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic dyes are common culprits that can trigger sensitive skin. Instead, opt for products labelled "hypoallergenic" or "fragrance-free" to ensure they are suitable for sensitive skin. For oily sensitive skin, look for lightweight moisturizers that won't clog pores. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin can help soothe and hydrate your skin without causing breakouts. Avoid harsh scrubs or foaming cleansers that can strip natural oils from your skin and cause irritation. In addition to your sensitive skincare routine, you can make some lifestyle changes to help manage sensitive skin. Protect your skin from the sun with Foxtale’s high-protection matte sunscreen for oily skin and Dewy finish sunscreen for dry skin. The best thing you can do is avoid spending time outdoors during peak sun hours. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also exacerbate skin issues, so avoiding these habits is important. If you have specific skincare concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation, look for products targeted towards those concerns but still suitable for sensitive skin. Chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) can help dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores without causing irritation. Avoid using physical exfoliants like scrubs that can be too abrasive for sensitive skin. Patch testing new products is important for sensitive skin as it involves applying a small amount of product to a small area of skin, like the inside of your wrist or ear. Then wait 24-48 hours to see if reactions occur before using the product. If you experience redness, itching, or other symptoms, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist. Sensitive skin requires extra attention and care, and choosing the right skin care products is essential. The best skin care products for sensitive skin are gentle, fragrance-free, and free from harsh chemicals. Some of the most effective and best products for sensitive skin include gentle cleansers such as Foxtale’s hydrating face cleanser, and Smoothening moisturizer is your best bet. It's also essential to look for products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin, like Foxtale’s Comfort Zone Rich Moisture Cream. When trying out new products, it's important to patch test first and introduce them slowly to your skin to avoid any adverse reactions. In conclusion, skincare for sensitive skin requires a gentle approach and careful product selection. By using non-irritating products, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin. Consult a dermatologist incase you have any concerns regarding your skin. The Best Skincare Routine For Sensitive Skin The most efficient way to care for sensitive skin is by adhering to a daily skincare routine. To help you in this endeavour, we bring you a simple yet result-oriented regimen. 1. Start by cleansing: Use a gentle, pH-balancing cleanser to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores. For sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash. The formula contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Red Algae Extract that bind moisture molecules to the skin, making it look soft and supple. The best part? This formula also doubles as an efficient makeup remover. It carries gentle surfactants that melt every trace of makeup and SPF. All you need is a coin-sized amount of the face wash for refreshed and rejuvenated skin. 2. Apply treatment: After your skin is dry, use a serum of choice. Since underlying sensitivities stem from dry, damaged skin – we recommend serums like Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid Serum. These formulas ensure long-lasting hydration, uphold barrier health, and calm inflamed skin. Take a few pumps of the Hydrating or Niacinamide Serum and dab it on your face. 3. Moisturize generously: Once your serum is on, use moisturizer to seal it. For sensitive skin, you must seek creams that are lightweight, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic. Try Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer STAT. Infused with Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and Olive Oil, the formula improves your skin’s water-holding capacity. Moreover, Ceramides double down on hydration, boost barrier health, soothe inflammation, and shield your skin against menacing aggressors.] 4. Sun protection: Next, apply a generous slather of sunscreen to protect your skin against burns, tanning, pigmentation, and photoaging. For folks with sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Dewy Sunscreen. This broad-spectrum formula ensures formidable sun protection while bestowing a gorgeous dewy finish on the skin. Moreover, the efficacious sunscreen with D-Panthenol and Vitamin E administers long-lasting moisturization for the skin. Wear two fingers’ worth of sunscreen before stepping outdoors. FAQs 1. What should I avoid when creating a skincare routine for sensitive skin? When creating a skincare routine for sensitive skin, it's important to avoid harsh products that can cause irritation. This includes products with fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic dyes. 2. Can I use exfoliants on sensitive skin? Yes, you can use exfoliants on sensitive skin, but it's important to use gentle exfoliants. Avoid physical exfoliants like scrubs that can be too abrasive, and instead opt for chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). 3. Should I moisturize if I have oily sensitive skin? Yes, even if you have oily, sensitive skin, moisturizing is still important to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for moisturizers that are lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores. 4.How do I patch-test new skincare products for sensitive skin? To patch test new skincare products for sensitive skin, apply a small amount to a small area of your skin, like the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24-48 hours to see if any reactions occur before using the product on your face.