Everything you need to know about Acne

Things to know about acne
Acne, whether you’ve struggled with it for years, or just get a random zit before your period, is a source of agony for many. This makes finding the right acne treatment—in the right ingredient, formula and concentration—the absolute beauty holy grail. But before you get to work and reach this step, you’re probably wondering why you’re breaking out in the first place, what your zit means, and what you can do to never get one again. Here’s what we know.

Why do I get acne?

You usually get a pimple when the pores of your skin become blocked with a mix of oil, dead skin and bacteria. This shows up on the surface as inflammation in the form of a whitehead, blackhead or cyst. Eventually, the pores become clogged and push their contents to the skin’s surface. It is important to note that it is multifactorial. You can be hit with a zit for many reasons, some of which you can control and others you can’t. It is not a definitive list—because so many things can cause breakouts at different times in your life. But if any of these issues ring a bell, here’s what you can do.

  • You could have oily skin

Some people are genetically programmed to make more oil. Skin cells stick together within the follicles (especially if you aren’t exfoliating) and then trap oil from reaching the surface. This causes oil to fill the pore, which when melded with any bacteria in the area, leads to acne.

  • Your beauty products could be getting in the way

You might be trying really hard to eat better, sleep more often and stick to your anti-acne routine. But if your products aren’t working for you, they could be causing acne. Mineral oil, for example, which is in many moisturizers, could clog your pores and cause blackheads or whiteheads. Fragrance, if you’re sensitive to it, could also increase inflammation and make you more prone to zits.

  • You’re about to get your period

Just before you get your period, oestrogen and progesterone levels fall, and testosterone levels are higher than usual. This triggers your sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum. Too much can result in clogged pores and breakouts. This is true in the case of medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which cause an overproduction of androgens, which can cause hormonal acne. These are usually seen on the bottom half of the face.

  • You’re stressed out

When you’re nervous, upset or overwhelmed, your body is in a fight-or-flight mode for longer than it should be. This causes the production of a corticotropin-releasing hormone and cortisol. These promote the overproduction of oil, which leads to a worsened inflammation.

  • You’re eating sugary foods

When blood sugar levels spike, the body produces more insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Eating foods with a high glycemic index can cause breakouts. Increased insulin ups the level of androgens, which increases sebum production.

  • You’re not washing your face enough (or you’re over-washing it)

To help prevent pimples, it’s important to remove excess oil, makeup, and sweat daily, so you can prevent congestion. Exfoliating is key too. You can ensure that you break down the glue between dead skin cells so they don’t stick together and accumulate. But, at the same time, if you over-cleanse, you could dehydrate your skin, which could make things worse. When skin is too dry, it causes a backup of dead skin, as well as excess sebum production to overcompensate, which hampers the balance even further.

What are the different kinds of acne?

The five main kinds of acne are whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules and cysts.

What It Is What You Can Do 
Whiteheads They form when a pore gets clogged by sebum and dead skin cells. However, it is non-inflammatory.
Blackheads These are similar to whiteheads, but the top is oxidised, so it looks black and dark. 
Papules  These occur when the walls surrounding your pores break down due to intense inflammation. This results in a hard, painful bump.
Pustules  Pustules are filled with pus, and are super inflamed. They are painful and warm to the touch. 
Cysts  They are caused due to clogs very deep in the skin. They take the longest to go away, and are most likely to scar.

 

Also Read: Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What are the major topical skincare ingredients I can use?

When it comes to tackling acne, topical ingredients are the most effective. They work to prevent, inhibit and treat them. These are some of the most popular ones you’ll spot on ingredient labels:

  • Salicylic acid 

The structure of the salicylic acid molecule makes it oil soluble, so it is able to break down the oil collected in the pores. It is able to penetrate so deep into the skin, unclogging pores and cleaning it deeply. Using an acne spot corrector gel that contains salicylic acid helps in controlling oil production and prevents breakouts. This is an ideal ingredient to use if you have blackheads or whiteheads and it works as a great preventative agent. 

  • Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide works by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria and peeling dead skin cells away. It can cause dryness and irritation if you apply too much of it though, so doctors suggest layering it as a spot treatment. 

  • Retinoids

Retinoids increase the turnover rate by getting rid of the top layer of dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new collagen and healthy new skin. It works as the gold standard for acne therapy. 

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids

AHAs like glycolic acid is water soluble, it exfoliates the dead skin cells on the surface, to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. 

  • Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a comedolytic, so it breaks down pore blockages and keeps new ones from forming, and it is able to get rid of the bacteria on the surface, reducing redness and inflammation in the process. 

The Conclusion 

Having acne can be a difficult thing to deal with, but remember, your worth as a person is not defined by the presence or absence of it. When you incorporate the right products into your routine, the road to clear skin doesn't seem like a bumpy ride. By consistently following this routine, you can help regulate oil production, unclog pores, and prevent future breakouts. Achieving radiant and acne-free skin won't seem like a far-fetched dream anymore. 

FAQs 

1. What can I do as soon as I feel a zit coming on?

Keep your hands off! You don’t want to risk transferring any bacteria from your fingers onto the inflamed area and making it worse. Pros suggest icing the area—it soothes and may reduce redness. You may want to treat the area with small amounts of salicylic acid, and then layer a moisturizer to prevent dryness.

2. What measures can I take to prevent oily skin? 

Blotting excess oil from your skin is an excellent way of preventing excess oil appearance throughout the day. Keep in mind to cleanse your face even after exercising. Never skip putting on sunscreen. 

3. What causes acne on the face? 

Acne is caused when sebum and dead skin cells clog the hair follicles. It is also caused due to hormonal changes seen during puberty which can increase oil production, leading to acne. Factors like stress and diet can also contribute to acne outbreaks.

Somewhere, in some part of the world, there’s a girl highlighting a favourite line from a book and thinking, “Damn! I hope I remember this!” That’s Nikitha. Apart from reading, you’ll most probably find her stalking random Reddit threads, discussing ...

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Somewhere, in some part of the world, there’s a girl highlighting a favourite line from a book and thinking, “Damn! I hope I remember this!” That’s Nikitha. Apart from reading, you’ll most probably find her stalking random Reddit threads, discussing ...

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How to do it: Use a store-bought or a DIY scrub (with honey and sugar). With a light hand apply the formula on the affected areas and wash it off after 5 to 7 minutes. Since over-exfoliation zaps your skin’s moisture, leading to dehydration and inflammation – we recommend using the scrub 2 to 3 times weekly. Expert tips: Avoid exfoliating the sensitive areas which are susceptible to flare-ups. Also, don’t skimp on your moisturizer after exfoliation. This skincare staple offsets any accidental flareups or inflammation on the skin. Method 2: Home remedies How does it work: Home remedies have been found extremely effective in removing tans. Infused with natural brightening agents, these DIY recipes minimize the risk of flare-ups. Here are the most common scrubs you can whip up at home- 1. Tomato and lemon mask Rich in lycopene, tomatoes help wane pigmentation due to tanning. Furthermore, lemon’s bleaching properties double down on efforts for an even skin tone. 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Why Should You Use Niacinamide In Winter?

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How to layer Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide: Use the combination of Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide to double down on hydration. For those unaware, Hyaluronic Acid binds water molecules to the skin to replenish its moisture bank. Moreover, Niacinamide forms a protective barrier to seal this hydration for prolonged periods. How to use: Use a few drops of the Hyaluronic Acid Serum on your face. Once it sinks it, apply an even layer of Niacinamide. Follow up with your favourite moisturizer and sunscreen. 2. How to layer Niacinamide and Vitamin C: Beat winter blues and make way for radiant skin with Vitamin C and Niacinamide. While Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, Niacinamide controls this pigments distribution across skin cells. How to use: Take a few drops of Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum and dab it on your face. Once this layer melds into skin, apply Niacinamide to lock the treatment for best results. 3. 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Use 2 to 3 times a week: Although Niacinamide works well on most skin types, we recommend using it only 2 to 3 times a week to avoid any flare-ups. 3. Conduct a patch test: Before applying the serum on your face, ensure to conduct a patch test on your neck. Proceed only if your skin responds well to the active ingredient. 4. Moisture: After the Niacinamide Serum sinks into your skin, apply a generous layer of your favourite Foxtale moisturizer. A potent moisturizing formula forms a protective barrier on the dermis, sealing the Niacinamide molecules. But that’s not all. A moisturizer also offsets any accidental flare-ups or inflammation from using active ingredients. 5. Don’t skimp on sunscreen: The thumb rule of adding active ingredients into your skincare – never skimp on sunscreen. For those unaware, result-oriented actives can make your skin photosensitive. To avoid any flareups, use a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen on the reg. 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November 26, 2024

Body Acne – Causes, Types, And Treatments

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.

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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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