Know the Causes of Dry skin

November 26, 2024

By Srishty Singh

Acne is one of the most prevalent skin concerns in the Indian subcontinent. According to statistics, it affects nearly 72% of adolescents and 27% of the adult population. Acne occurs when dead cells, debris, and excess sebum clog the pores on your skin, leading to the appearance of pesky bumps. These plugged pores are further aggravated when bacteria start thriving in them, resulting in redness and inflammation. One must note acne eruptions are not just limited to the face but can also occur below the chin, especially on the chest, arms, and back. While body acne is generally not a serious condition, it can seriously affect one's mental well-being and confidence. If you struggle with body acne, keep reading for a lowdown on topical treatments and cosmetic procedures that can give you clear, radiant skin. What Causes Body Acne? Acne vulgaris occurs due to these 3 main reasons. 1. Excess sebum production: Just like the face, your skin above the waist contains several sebaceous glands that produce oil. This oil or sebum moisturizes your dermis and averts harmful pathogens. However, overproduction of sebum clogs the pores, leading to bumps and eruptions. 2. Clogged pores: Skin with overzealous sebaceous glands is more prone to attract dirt and debris from the immediate surroundings. When this debris along with dead cells and excess sebum clogs the pores, it leads to the formation of whiteheads or blackheads i.e. non-inflammatory acne. 3. Uninhibited growth of bacteria: Plugged pores make way for harmful acne-causing bacteria to inhibit them. Results? Redness and inflammation in and around the eruptions. Common Triggers For Acne Even if your skin type isn’t oily, you might experience stubborn body acne due to the following factors 1. Genetics: You may be genetically predisposed to acne and breakouts. So, if your mother grappled with acne in her teenage years, chances are you will too. 2. Hormonal changes: You might notice inexplicable acne or breakouts around your mensuration cycle. This happens due to hormonal changes in the body which trigger excess sebum production. 3. Stress: Stress leads to the production of hormones called androgens. These hormones directly impact the skin by stimulating its oil glands – leading to more acne breakouts than usual. 4. Oily and comedogenic body care: Sometimes breakouts occur due to the use of oily or non-comedogenic products. To avoid this problem, make sure to read the label of every bath and body product that you plan on purchasing. 5. Diet: Indulging in carbohydrates (like skim milk, chocolates, burgers, and more) makes your skin more prone to pesky breakouts. 6. Excessive perspiration (a.k.a. sweating): When sweat combines with oil, impurities, and dead cells to clog pores, it leads to body acne. To avoid this problem, ensure to maintain optimal personal hygiene at all times. Hop into the shower and wear a fresh pair of clothes after a workout session. 7. Sun exposure: Continued sun exposure also leads to breakouts on the body. You see, the relentless rays from the sun dehydrate the skin. This lack of moisture molecules triggers the sebaceous glands, resulting in more greasiness and acne. What Are The Different Types Of Body Acne? Breakouts, in general, can be categorized into pimples, papules, blackheads, whiteheads, nodules, and cystic acne – based on their severity. Body acne, on the other hand, has 3 broad subcategorizations 1. Acne Cosmetica: This type of body acne occurs due to ill-suited skincare or hair care products. A mild form of breakout – you may observe eruptions around your hairline and the neck. To circumvent this problem, steer clear of shampoos (or conditioners) with silicones and oils, and comedogenic body care offerings. 2. Acne Mechanica: Continued contact with your sporting gear, equipment, or even snug workout wear can trigger episodes of acne mechanica. This is due to dirt, debris, oils, and harmful bacteria getting trapped in a hot and humid environment – resulting in papules or pustules. 3. Sweating: Excessive sweat irritates the skin, aggravating pre-existing bumps. So, if you have acne-prone skin, we recommend observing immaculate personal hygiene. Don’t lounge around in your sweaty workout wear for too long. Hop into the shower and put on a pair of fresh, dry clothes. Prevention For Body Acne Before we delve deeper into the different solutions for body acne, check out some simple tips and tricks that will help prevent them 1. Adhere to a consistent body care routine: The skin is the largest organ of the human body, then why is its care just limited to the face? If you are guilty of this grave oversight, remedy the situation with an infallible body care routine. Use a body wash that exfoliates dead cells to reveal smooth, supple skin. Next, use a generous lather of a hydrating body lotion to lock in the treatment. 2. Load up on fruits and veggies: Experts suggest that low-glycemic foods help reduce acne significantly. If you are susceptible to breakouts, try a balanced diet complete with fresh veggies, fruits, oats, nuts, and more. Steer clear of complex carbohydrates in fried foods, chocolates, and skim milk. 3. Clothing choices: We know that heat, humidity, and physical strain can worsen body acne. This is why we recommend wearing comfortable, breathable fabrics that don’t trap buildup in moist areas – leading to breakouts. 4. Stress: Inarguably, stress and acne go hand-in-hand. To reduce breakouts due to increased cortisol, we recommend practicing meditation and mindfulness. You may also try yoga for the betterment of your physical, emotional, and spiritual health – further resulting in great skin. Professional Treatments For Body Acne In case of severe body acne, you can opt for the below professional procedures. Before you take the plunge, we recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist. 1. Corticosteroid Injection: Used for severe cases of cystic acne, a corticosteroid injection reduces the cyst size, inflammation, and pain significantly. It can be summoned to clear excessive acne scarring. 2. Chemical peels: A chemical peel uses a high-concentration exfoliant (like Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid) to shed dead cells from the dermis. This method helps address adjacent concerns like clogged or open pores, remove excess oil, and of course treat acne. 3. Light Therapy: Light therapy entails directing infrared blue or red light on the acne eruption or lesion. This process is usually combined with topical treatments for best results. Best Home Remedies For Body Acne In case of mild body acne, you can resort to the following home remedies. Effective and convenient with no side-effects, whip these solutions at home to see the results for yourself 1. Baking Soda: The common kitchen ingredient is also a gentle yet effective exfoliant. Mix one part of the soda with two parts of water and apply the paste to the affected areas. Rinse off after 10 mins. 2. Aloe Vera: Scoop out some natural aloe vera and apply it on acne bumps. The miraculous ingredient packed with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helps alleviate body acne instantly. 3. Honey and milk: In a bowl, mix honey and milk in a 1:1 ratio to create a whip. Now apply it on the problem areas for 10 minutes tops and wash it off. For those unaware, milk contains Lactic Acid that gently exfoliates the skin to unclog pores, remove greasiness, and tackle acne. Moreover, honey possesses antibacterial properties that curb inflammation and infection. 4. Tea tree oil: Mix tea tree oil with a carrier (like coconut oil) in a 2:1 ratio. Apply this mixture on individual bumps to inhibit bacterial growth. 5. Apple Cider Vinegar: Dunk a cotton ball in Apple Cider Vinegar and apply it to the individual eruptions. This ingredient’s natural antimicrobial properties help alleviate infection and reduce inflammation. When To Consult A Dermatologist You should consult a dermatologist when your body acne Is cystic or nodular Bleeding or ejecting pus Appears too red or inflamed Won’t go down with the help of OTC medicines or remedies Has been impacting your mental well being Conclusion Acne is a skin concern that is not just confined to the face. Due to the presence of several sebaceous glands (above the waist) – you may experience acne on your arms, neck, back, and chest too. Based on the severity, you may opt for home remedies, topical treatments or professional procedures to bid farewell to body acne and get smooth, supple skin.

April 1, 2023

By Srishty Singh

Eczema is a chronic skin disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is described by dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin. Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis, and it can occur at any age. In this blog post, let's discuss what eczema is, the different types of eczema, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. What is Eczema? Eczema is a condition that causes inflammation, dryness, and itching. It can appear on the body anywhere, but it is most common on the face, neck, hands, and legs. Eczema is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. Types of Eczema There are several different types of eczema, including: Atopic dermatitis: The most frequently encountered type of eczema is characterized by dryness, inflammation, and itchiness on the skin, and it usually appears during childhood. Contact dermatitis: This happens when the skin comes into contact with an irritant/allergen. It is characterized by reddness, itchy, and inflamed skin. Dyshidrotic eczema: This type of eczema affects the hands and feet, and it is characterized by small, itchy blisters. Nummular eczema: This type of eczema causes circular or oval-shaped patches of inflamed skin. Seborrheic dermatitis: This is a common form of eczema that affects the scalp, face, and chest. It is characterized by scaly patches of skin. How to cure Eczema Regrettably, eczema has no known cure; nevertheless, several treatment alternatives are accessible to aid in controlling its symptoms. Some of the most effective treatments for eczema include: Moisturizing regularly: Using a moisturizer can help keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Topical corticosteroids: These are medications that can be applied to the skin to lessen inflammation and itching. Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These medications reduce inflammation and itching in people with moderate to severe eczema. Antihistamines: These medications help relieve itching and lessen inflammation. Wet dressings: These involve applying a wet dressing to the affected area to lessen inflammation and itching. Light therapy: This procedure entails the application of ultraviolet light to the skin, which helps to reduce inflammation and itching. Causes of Eczema The actual cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the most typical triggers for eczema are: 1.Dry skin: Individuals with eczema tend to have dry skin, which can make the condition worse. 2.Irritants: Certain substances, such as soaps, detergents, and cleaning products, can irritate the skin and trigger eczema. 3.Allergens: Some people with eczema are allergic to certain substances, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. 4.Stress: Stress can cause eczema to flare up or worsen. 5.Hormonal changes: Eczema may be triggered by hormonal changes, like those that occur during pregnancy or menopause. Symptoms of Eczema: Eczema is a chronic skin diseases that can cause a range of symptoms such as: Dry, itchy, and red skin Inflamed, cracked and scaly skin Blisters and thickened skin Skin that is rough and sensitive to the touch Areas of swelling Eczema on face causes: Eczema on the face can be triggered by a variety of factors, including: Exposure to irritants like harsh soaps, detergents, and fragrances Allergic reactions to food, pollen, or other environmental triggers Hormonal changes Stress and anxiety Genetic factors and dry skin Scratching the skin on the face, can further irritate it and make the condition worse. Conclusion: Eczema is a complex skin issue that can cause discomfort and frustration. It has various causes, such as genetics and environmental factors, and can be triggered by stress, allergens, or irritants. Identifying the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment are crucial to managing eczema effectively. While eczema cannot be cured, there are various treatment options available, including lifestyle changes, topical creams, and medication. With proper care and management, individuals with eczema can live comfortable and healthy life.

March 30, 2023

By Srishty Singh

Your skin is exposed to damaging elements like UV rays, pollution, and chemicals, leading to skin damage. But, with the right tips, repairing and revitalising damaged skin is possible. We'll explore types/causes of skin damage, signs, and tips for repair in this blog post. Types of Skin Damage: Sun Damage - Sunburn, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation. Acne Scarring - Acne can lead to scarring that can be difficult to treat. Wrinkles - As you age, your skin loses elasticity and becomes prone to wrinkles. Dry Skin - Environmental factors like harsh soaps, hot showers, and low humidity can lead to dry skin. Dark Circles - Stress, lack of sleep, and genetics can cause dark circles under the eyes. Causes of Skin Damage: UV radiation - Overexposure to the sun's UV rays can damage the skin's DNA and lead to skin cancer. Pollution - Pollutants like cigarette smoke, smog, and car exhaust can damage the skin's barrier and lead to premature ageing. Harsh chemicals - Skincare products with harsh chemicals can irritate the skin and lead to dryness, redness, and flakiness. Poor nutrition - A diet high in processed foods and low in nutrients can affect the skin's health. Stress - Chronic stress can cause inflammation and break down the skin's collagen and elastin. Signs of Damaged Skin: The signs of damaged skin can vary, but some common symptoms include: Sunburn - Redness, peeling, and blistering after sun exposure. Hyperpigmentation - Dark spots and uneven skin tone. Dryness - Rough, scaly, and itchy skin. Fine Lines and Wrinkles - Crow's feet, smile lines, and forehead wrinkles. Acne Scarring - Pitted or raised scars from past acne breakouts. How to Heal Damaged Skin on the Face To heal damaged skin on the face, start by cleansing with a gentle cleanser. Next, apply a ceramide-rich moisturizer with SPF and consider using healing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E. Avoid harsh products, and protect the skin from the sun and pollutants. How to Heal/Repair Damaged Skin: Repairing damaged skin takes time, patience, and consistency. Here are tips to help you get started: Protect Your Skin - Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, avoid tanning beds, and wear protective clothing, like hats and sunglasses. Hydrate - Drink plenty of water and use moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to lock in moisture. Exfoliate - Use gentle exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Incorporate Antioxidants - Use products that contain antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin. Seek Professional Help - Consult with a dermatologist or esthetician for personalized skincare advice and treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy. How You Can Cure Damaged Skin With Natural Remedies/Products: Aloe Vera - This natural remedy has anti-inflammatory and healing properties and can be used to soothe sunburns and skin irritations. Vitamin C: Antioxidant that protects skin, boosts collagen production and reduces fine lines. It can be found in food or topical serums/creams. Retinoids: Vitamin A that increases cell turnover and collagen production, improving fine lines and wrinkles. Use as directed to avoid irritation. Hyaluronic Acid: Holds up to 1000 times its weight in water, keeping skin hydrated and plump. Also, it improves fine lines and wrinkles overtime. Green Tea: Antioxidant-rich, reduces inflammation and protects skin from damage. Drinking or using products with green tea extract improves skin health. Shea Butter: Natural moisturizer, rich in fatty acids and vitamins to improve elasticity and texture, soothes dry patches, and repairs damaged skin. Coconut Oil: Versatile as a moisturizer, cleanser, and hair conditioner, rich in antioxidants and fatty acids to repair the damaged skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve texture. Conclusion: You need to give your skin the love and care it deserves! So incorporate these creative tips into your skincare routine to revitalize and fix your skin barrier. Your skin will thank you for it.

October 7, 2022

By Nikitha Shettigar

Acne is just like that one relative. You don't look forward to having them but somehow, whenever they visit, you have to tolerate them. Acne-prone skin is one of the most prevalent and difficult skin types to care for. It necessitates going the extra mile. Having acne can often be a painful experience and may impact your self-esteem but with the right guidance and care, you can embark on a journey towards healthier skin. Making certain modifications to your skincare regimen or way of life may be necessary to get rid of acne. Acne-prone skin frequently exhibits symptoms including zits, pimples, and irritated skin. Depending on how severe it is, acne is a chronic condition that constantly fluctuates. One needs to keep consistency in mind when managing acne. To effectively treat it, you need to understand it and have a lot of patience. Let’s learn everything we can about acne-prone skin and how to cure it. What causes acne-prone skin? Your skin pores produce sebum which keeps your skin lubricated and moisturized. However, when your skin generates too much sebum, which clogs your pores, it causes inflammation and develops into a pimple, also known as acne. Excess sebum production or acne formation can occur for a variety of causes, which is why it can affect both teenagers and adults. Here are a few significant causes: 1.Hormones A major contributor to acne-prone skin is hormones. It is particularly prevalent in teenagers and young adults as their bodies begin to produce testosterone, which in turn leads to the overproduction of sebum/oil in the sebaceous glands. Breakouts can also be caused by hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle. 2. Diet According to studies, some food ingredients may play a significant role in acne-prone skin. Processed meals, fat and hydrogenated oils, spicy, packaged foods, meat, alcohol, dairy, and even coffee can aggravate acne-prone skin. 3. Stress In certain people, stress also seems to be a factor in acne outbreaks. Your body's primary stress hormone is cortisol. Acne may result from an increase in sebaceous gland oil production when too much cortisol hormone is released into the bloodstream. What to avoid for acne-prone skin? Not taking care of your stress or diet are just a few things you should avoid doing to trigger your acne-prone skin. Here are some more: Do not be overly harsh or brutal to your skin; instead, use a gentle approach to skincare. This includes not exfoliating and cleansing your face excessively. Never use an abrasive cleanser or face wash. Do not touch or squeeze your pimples; instead, leave them to your treatment products. Face scrubs should never be used since they might cause micro-tears in the skin. Avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight. Do not try random kitchen hacks or DIYs you find on the internet. Do not apply lemon or toothpaste to your acne! Be sanitary in general. This includes keeping your phone screen clean and changing your pillows regularly. How to treat acne-prone skin? Now that you understand the causes of your acne-prone skin and the do's and don'ts, it's time to learn about acne-prone skin treatment. One of the greatest practices to follow if you have acne-prone skin is to have a simple skincare routine that focuses on treating acne and overall skin upkeep. A suitable Cleanse-Treat-Moisturize-Protect (CTMP) routine A good skincare routine is defined by its effectiveness rather than its complexity. When you have acne-prone skin, sticking to a simple routine is the way to go. Cleanse The first step is to cleanse your skin to remove dirt, pollutants, excess oil, and makeup remnants. Thoroughly cleansing your skin will also help prepare it for the next parts of the routine. Choose a cleanser that is gentle enough on the skin to not deprive it of its natural oils. Hydrating facewash is the perfect pick for your AM and PM cleansing routine. It is a gel-based, oil-free formula that gently cleanses your skin from the inside out while simultaneously hydrating it and aiding in the prevention of future outbreaks. You just cannot go wrong with this one! Treat The second step is to address your skin issue, which is acne. Any sort of acne medication can be used to treat the condition, including serums, toners, and ampoules. However, one of the most effective acne remedies is an anti-acne clarifying gel! We have a delightful surprise for you to eliminate the acne and pimples from your life. Introducing Foxtale’s Acne Spot Corrector Gel, a must-have for clear, smooth, and acne-free skin. This spot corrector guarantees visible improvement after 12 hours of use, whether it is stress-related acne or hormonal breakouts. This powerhouse is loaded with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and others, making it a one-stop treatment for treating severe active acne and acne marks. Moisturize Acne treatments that contain potent acids might be a touch drying on the skin since they try to limit oil production on your skin. This is why the following step, which is to moisturize your skin, is necessary. Moisturizing your skin strengthens its barrier, protects it from dryness, and retains moisture to keep it looking smooth and healthier. One such moisturizer to have in your skincare routine is Foxtale’s Ceramide Supercream. Enriched with skin barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, this cream is lightweight and doesn’t clog your pores. Protect (AM only) Protecting your skin from damaging UV rays is one of the greatest acne remedies and a must-have step in your skincare routine. Choose a lightweight, non-pore-clogging product for acne-prone skin. For acne-prone skin, the Foxtale Matte Sunscreen is ideal. This lotion-like formula does not clog pores and provides great sun protection thanks to advanced UV filters and niacinamide, all while leaving skin weightless and matte. The Conclusion- Heading towards clear skin may not be an easy journey and will involve you putting a lot of patience on the products. However, the saying “Trust the process” must be followed. Whichever routine you’ll practice, ensure you thoroughly follow the instructions. In case you’re intending to switch up your products, it is wise to consult your dermatologist first. FAQs 1.What things worsen acne? You're more prone to have acne if you eat and drink poorly. Using out-of-date cosmetics, dirty makeup tools, and making the blunder of sleeping in your makeup can make your acne worse. 2.What are the causes of acne? Acne can be brought on by excessive sebum production, oil-clogged hair follicles and dead skin cells, and acne-causing bacteria. 3.What happens if you don't treat acne? Severe acne can cause permanent scars on your skin if it is not addressed. The likelihood of this happening is decreased by taking care of your skin and treating your acne.

September 19, 2022

By Srishty Singh

Building a skincare routine largely depends on the skin type. Not every product will be a blessing for you if it is not designed for your skin type. Especially for some people, finding the right product is very difficult as they tend to break out from most ingredients. This is sensitive skin that is prone to various skin problems. Such skin tends to get itchy, irritated, and inflamed very easily with just any product. Read on to find out all about the best ways to take care of such a skin. What is sensitive skin? Sensitive Skin is more of a persistent complaint about typical issues brought on by a specific skin type than it is a condition. Such skin is characterized by its intolerance towards any harsh condition. Climatic changes, products, change in diet and even the environment can react easily to such skin. What causes sensitive skin? Sensitivity occurs when the nerve ending at the top layer of the skin gets irritated. The sensitivity gets triggered when the natural barrier of the skin is weak or breaks down. There are a variety of triggers that can disrupt the natural barrier. One of the most common and potential triggers is using the wrong skincare product. Unlike other skin, sensitive skin is more reactive to all types of products like makeup, soaps, cleansers, moisturizers, etc. Hence, choosing the right product for such a skin gets tricky. External factors Several external factors can trigger sensitive skin. They are as follows: The climatic change or condition can cause skin irritation. Harsh sunlight, excessive wind, or humidity- all can cause irritation, dryness, and inflammation Air pollution and free radicals can trigger sensitivity as the skin barrier is weak Ingredients and additives in cosmetics and skincare also irritate sensitive skin Sensitive skin is common after major surgery as it is still healing from the wound Internal factors There are also a few internal causes of sensitive skin which are as follows: Too much spicy food can trigger indigestion which in turn reflects on the skin through irritation and rashes Excess alcohol consumption causes dilatation of blood vessels and leads to redness in sensitive skin Skin sensitivity and problems like psoriasis get triggered by gluten intolerance too How to take the best care of sensitive skin? The key to taking care of sensitive skin is being gentle and extra careful. This means you must be wary of what you’re using on your skin. To begin, always use a gentle, pH-balanced, hydrating cleanser and avoid harsh cleansers that strip your skin's natural oils. The Foxtale Daily Duet Cleanser is the perfect pick for when you have a compromised skin barrier. It gently cleanses away the everyday dirt and debris from your skin, leaving it feeling rejuvenated and hydrated. People with sensitive skin should also be extra careful while removing their makeup. Using too many products might be too much for your skin, instead, just use one product that does the job of two! The Foxtale Daily Duet Cleanser is one such product; it washes off your makeup gently in one go without making you wipe off those bits of makeup with harsh micellar water. Hydration and building the skin barrier are all you need to manage sensitive skin. But you also need to be careful not to use too many products for this purpose. Cut to the chase and go with the Foxtale Ceramide Supercream, which does it all! This is a lightweight, creamy moisturizer enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to strengthen your skin barrier. It also helps with uneven skin texture and dryness. Although sunscreen is essential for all skin types, those with sensitive skin should never forego it. The Foxtale Mattifying Cover Up Sunscreen is an excellent choice for daily use because it is lightweight, does not clog your pores, and absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast. Because it has a PA++++ rating, SPF 50, and is a broad spectrum, you can be confident that you will be well-protected from the sun. The addition of niacinamide helps with uneven skin tone! A few other things to keep in mind while taking care of your sensitive skin is: Observe your skin to recognize triggers like weather, diet, and skincare ingredients to avoid them. Lastly, always patch test the products before you buy them.