Struggling With Hyperpigmentation? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Struggling With Hyperpigmentation? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Acne is frustrating. You’ll do anything to get rid of it—out, damned spot!—ASAP. You’ll reach for salicylic acid to exfoliate, retinol to improve cell turnover, and benzoyl peroxide to nix any surface bacteria. But once the zit is gone, it likely leaves a dark mark in its wake—one that doesn’t disappear as quickly as the original zit did. Hyperpigmentation (or the darkening of certain areas of the face) occurs due to post-blemish scarring from a stubborn breakout, freckles, a cut or bug bite—or when you’re exposed to sunlight, in the case of melasma or sun spots.

Why does hyperpigmentation happen?

To understand how this happens—and more so to people of colour—it is key to understand how melanin works. The color of your skin is derived from melanocytes, which produce melanosomes. These are small packets that contain melanin. Those with darker skin tones with a Fitzpatrick scale of III and above) have more melanosomes spread throughout the cells, which then secrete more melanin when exposed to sunlight.

UVA rays signal to the melanocytes to product more melanin in that area and dump it into lower layers of the skin in thick pockets (like a tattoo). This way it can protect itself from the potential damage. While you might just think it’s a problem— melanin is actually absorbing and scattering those rays to protect yourself from more serious risks of sun damage, like skin cancer. It has good intentions to start with—it is an potent antioxidant. So it works to break down all the UV rays in an attempt to prevent the DNA from being affected.

Also Read: What Is Pigmentation: Types, Causes, Treatments, and Products

How can I get rid of it?

First, prevent it. The only way to really protect yourself from hyperpigmentation is to slather yourself with sunscreen and practice sun safety. You know what this means: stay out of the sun between 10am and 3pm, wear hats or protective clothing, keep your sunglasses close by, slather on a SPF 50+ sunscreen every two-three hours, and make sure you’re applying enough. The skin cells are responding to UV light by producing more melanin as a self-protective mechanism, and broad-spectrum SPF is the only thing that blocks this.

Didn’t grow up being forced to protect yourself even though the sun’s rays are strongest in the tropics? It is important to note that since people of color are less prone to skin cancer, sunscreen application is not considered as important as it is in the West. Ironically, this couldn’t be further from the truth. SPF is the only thing that can protect you from dark spots, melasma and pigmentation! To know more about sunscreen—and why it has major main character energy— read what we have to say here

Moreover, it’s not just sunlight. Skin cells just see light as light. Blue HEV light from phone screens, computer screens and TV screens can worsen pigmentation too. New research shows that blue light activates a receptor in melanocytes to turn on a pigment-forming machinery in the cell.

Also Read: Guide to Reduce Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots

How can I fix it now?

When you already have hyperpigmentation, doctors say that the first thing you should do is reach out to a dermatologist. Solutions range from in-office procedures—like lasers or peels—or combatting hyperpigmentation with a topical product that’ll nix damage (albeit slower). If you need the latter, look for a formula with lightening agents like licorice extract, kojic acid or mushroom extract. These can be used as a spot treatment on the specific area. Then, try using an exfoliating agent like glycolic acid, lactic acid or retinol, which’ll encourage these darkened skin cells to come up to the surface and let brighter, fresher, younger cells take its place. They also encourage products with antioxidants like Vitamin C, which help sunscreen do its job and prevent oxidative damage.

Most importantly, don’t over-do it! You don’t want to cause more damage to the area and risk the scar or spot getting darker or deeper. You don’t have to hide, change or erase these spots—they’re just a sign that your skin is protecting you from a fate way worse—a little concealer and some good skincare go a long way.

Also Read: Fade Dark Spots And Pigmentation

Need more help with how you can incorporate these products into your existing routine? Click on our WhatsApp icon to chat with our team!

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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How To Remove Tanning From The Body? 3 Pro Ways That Always Work

Summer is here – which means strolls on the beach, exploring exotic locales, and more fun activities. However, the one downside of the warm weather and the blazing sun is tanning. In simplest terms, tanning is the darkening of your skin due to constant exposure to the sun. You see – your body picks on the potential photodamage to the skin and cues more melanin production to absorb the UV rays. Results? Discoloration and an uneven, patchy complexion. Luckily, tanning is not an untreatable concern. So, if your skin is prone to tanning, scroll ahead for 3 tested ways to remove it effectively. Method 1: Exfoliation For Removing Tanning How does it work: The first tried-and-tested method to detan is exfoliation. If you don’t know how it works – exfoliation buffs away the dead cells with excess melanin from the skin. Moreover, this process encourages healthy cellular turnover, unveiling the bright, even surface sitting underneath. 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. One must note that tomatoes also combat discoloration by gently exfoliating the epidermis. How to use: In a bowl, mix equal parts of tomato and lemon juice. Apply this mixture on tanned areas for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. Once through, follow up with a rich and non-comedogenic facial moisturizer. 2. Aloe vera gel Another effective way to bid farewell to tanning – aloe vera gel. The glycoproteins in the plant fade hyperpigmentation and the bradykinase promotes cellular turnover at night – obliterating facial tanning. The best part? Due to its antioxidant properties, aloe vera also prevents tanning at bay! How to use: Take fresh aloe vera from a plant and apply it on the tanned areas. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse off gently. 3. Yougurt and turmeric Who knew that 2 kitchen ingredients could make one infallible tan cure? Lactic Acid in yogurt exfoliates the skin’s outermost layer to remove tan – uncloaking a bright, even-tone surface underneath. Turmeric further brightens your complexion by inhibiting melanin synthesis in the skin cells. This pack also has nourishing properties that prevent dryness from sun exposure. How to use: Take 2 to 3 spoons of yogurt and add a pinch of turmeric to it. Mix it well and apply this concoct on the affected areas. Wash thoroughly after 15 to 20 minutes Although home remedies are safe for most skin types, we still recommend conducting a patch test first. Method 3: Professional Treatments If you have stubborn tanning, we recommend opting for a professional treatment. Here are the most popular ones available at your nearest dermatologist. 1. Chemical peels: This method exfoliates your skin’s outermost layer with a high concentration of Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid – fading tan in the process. 2. Laser therapy: Laser therapy uses focused beams to boost Collagen production in the skin cells, dwindling the appearance of tan and pigmentation. 3. Microdermabrasion: This popular technique uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped device to exfoliate the epidermis. It can be used to fight tanning, pigmentation, and even acne scarring. Considerations opting for professional procedures: We recommend opting for the above professional treatments only under the guidance of a dermatologist. This intermediate step will minimize the risk of inflammation. Additional Steps To Prevent Tanning Moreover, you can employ these precautionary measures to keep tanning at bay. 1. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day: To prevent damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. For the Indian skin type, experts suggest opting for SPF 30 or higher. Apply 2 fingers’ worth of the formula roughly 20 minutes before stepping outdoors. 2. Cover exposed skin with clothing: Wear full-length sleeves and pants to avoid tanning on the limbs. Moreover, avoid getting direct sunlight between 10 AM to 4 PM. 3. Use hats and scarves to cover up: Prevent facial tanning with wide-brimmed hats and scarves on top of your sunscreen. Conclusion Skin tanning is caused due to incessant exposure to UV rays. Your body’s defense mechanism cues the overproduction of melanin to absorb the UV rays and prevent damage to the epidermis. Luckily, exfoliation, home remedies, and in case of severe episodes, professional treatments can remove tanning for bright and even-tone skin.

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December 23, 2024

Common Skincare Myths Debunked: What Actually Works?

The skincare industry is plagued with myths and misconceptions – with a new one emerging every second. This haze of never-ending confusion can throw you off your skincare game, but not anymore. We are here to bust these myths for good, to help you redirect efforts for good skin minus the fluff and frill. At the end of this blog, we help you with simple yet effective tips that actually yield results. So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading - Common Skincare Myths Do you believe that a 10-step routine is the only way to have gorgeous skin or that you don’t need sunscreen on a rainy day? If yes, alas, you have fallen prey to sunscreen myths doing the rounds. In this next section, we help you bust many such common skincare. 1. Natural Ingredients Are Always Better For Your Skin – Myth Vs Fact? Hands down a myth. Studies show that natural ingredients aren’t necessarily safer or better for your skin type. Additionally, their results can be inconsistent – often causing irritation and flareups in sensitive skin individuals. 2. You don’t need sunscreen indoors – Myth Vs Fact? This is a myth. Unfortunately, your skin is not safe from the harmful rays of the sun indoors. UV rays can penetrate windows, causing burns, pigmentation and other forms of sun damage. Even on an overcast day, UV radiation can pierce through bands of clouds, wreaking havoc on the skin. So, keep a sunscreen with 30 or higher handy at all times. 3. Oily skin doesn’t need a moisturizer – Myth Vs Fact? Myth. Myth. Myth. This is the gravest error made even by seasoned skincare enthusiasts. Since oily skincare overproduces sebum, people refrain from moisturizing due to the fear of extra grease, clogged pores and general heaviness. However, a lack of moisturization leads to more oiliness than ever. Without a moisturizing layer, the skin loses water molecules dramatically, resulting in dehydration. This prompts the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode. 4. Anti-Ageing Products Are Only For Older People – Myth Vs Fact? Myth for sure. Anti-ageing products are for people wishing to age more gracefully. Using active ingredients like Retinol, Ceramides, and Hyaluronic Acid prevents premature ageing signs like fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet and more. 5. Pores Can Open And Close – Myth Vs Fact? This is a very common skincare myth. Pores cannot physically open and close. They are openings on your skin that connect to hair follicles – playing an important role in natural moisturization, body temperature regulation, and flushing of toxins. How To Identify Skincare Misinformation? We mentioned a smattering of skincare myths that often lead us down the wrong path. However, there is no dearth of these misconceptions in the beauty industry. Here are some tips to identify these skincare myths. 1. No scientific backing: If a claim or an offering has no scientific backing, it can be misleading. 2. Lack of transparency: Brands and products that don’t explicitly mention their ingredients can add to misinformation in the space. 3. All-in-one solution: A skincare formulation can target only specific concerns based on its active ingredients. So, if a product claims to do it all, you know to steer clear of it. 4. Tall claims: Skincare is a science that requires persistent efforts over a period of time. Avoid products that claim to offer magical solutions. Effective Skincare Tips That Actually Work Here are some effective tips that guarantee good skin in the long run 1. Cleanse twice a day but steer clear of over washing: Use a gentle, pH-balancing face wash to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores – twice a day. However, steer cl.ear of over washing which dehydrates your skin, making it feel rough and dry. 2. Less is more: Simplify your skincare for best results. Use result-oriented formulas that target and address specific underlying concerns. Avoid slathering an assortment of products. 3. Wear moisturizer and sunscreen without fail: No matter your skin type, wear moisturizer and sunscreen daily. A potent moisturizer seals hydration and treatment into the skin, whereas a sunscreen averts harmful UV rays that cause burns, pigmentation, and ageing. Conclusion The barrage of skincare misinformation can lead you down the wrong path. To streamline your efforts for great skin, ensure to identify a myth vs a fact.

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December 13, 2024

Why Should You Use Niacinamide In Winter?

Your skin bears the brunt of cold, drying winds in winter, calling for an upgrade in your skincare routine. Just how you bust out cosy sweaters in the colder months – you need thicker, hydrating formulas that restore your skin’s moisture balance, fight dryness, and keep flareups at bay. To help you in this endeavour, we are rallying for skincare workhorse Niacinamide. Before we learn how Niacinamide benefits your skin during winters, here’s a refresher on the active ingredient. So, grab a steaming cup of coco and keep reading! What Is Niacinamide? For the unversed, Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 found in nuts, milk, and poultry. The active ingredient is water soluble with the excess being flushed out by the system. Which means, if you want Niacinamide to works wonders for your skin, you need to seek it in your daily skincare. How Does Niacinamide Benefit Your Skin In Winters The nippy weather takes a toll on your skin. Enter Niacinamide! It helps 1. Preserve skin hydration: The dry wind in winter strips your skin of its moisture content. Remedy this problem with Niacinamide. Its topical application prevents TEWL or transepidermal water loss, ensuring a big, sturdy lock on your skin’s hydration. 2. Strengthens the skin barrier: Cold weather weakens the lipid barrier, making your skin more prone to infection, bacteria, and other pollutants. This is where skincare all-rounder Niacinamide comes into play. The use of Niacinamide boosts ceramide production in the skin cell – an integral component of the lipid barrier. 3. Soothes inflammation and irritation: Cold winds and low humidity lead to inflammation on the skin. Use Niacinamide to reverse this damage. For the unversed, Niacinamide is packed with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, rashes, and other flare-ups. 4. Makes your skin appear bright: Another gripe that several people have with winter is how it makes their skin look dull and lacklustre. Incorporate Niacinamide in your daily skincare to enhance your skin’s latent radiance. The active ingredient seeps deep into the skin to curb melanin production across the skin cells, encouraging a more even skin tone. 5. Reduces dryness and flakiness: The colder months can be ‘rough’ on your skin. Use Niacinamide to lock in hydration, soothe inflammation, and improve overall skin texture. 6. Acne: For folks with oily skin, the drier months can also lead to acne breakouts. The lack of hydration cues the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, leading to more greasiness than ever. Tackle this problem with Niacinamide! The active ingredient blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores for smooth, even skin. How To Layer Niacinamide? Niacinamide works wonders for the skin, especially during the colder months. Layer Niacinamide with other active ingredients to double down on efforts for hydration, brightening, and more. 1. 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. How to layer Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid: If you grapple with breakouts in the winter season too, try the infallible combination of Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid. Skincare wonder Niacinamide blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores. Additionally, Salicylic Acid buffs away dirt, dead cells, and sebum while killing acne-causing bacteria. How to use: Start by applying a few drops of Salicylic Acid to your skin. After 15 to 20 minutes, follow up with a generous amount of Niacinamide. Things To Keep In Mind While Using Niacinamide Skincare active Niacinamide works well with all active ingredients. Moreover, it has little to no side effects on the skin. Having said that, if you are a first-time user, here are a few things you should keep in mind while using Niacinamide 1. Start with a low concentration of the active ingredient: If your skin is susceptible to inflammation or flare-ups, start with a low concentration of the active ingredient. 2. 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. Conclusion Reverse the damage of cold, dry winds on your skin with Niacinamide. The perfect addition to your winter skincare routine, Niacinamide restores your skin’s moisture balance, alleviates dryness, and fights inflammation or redness.

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Pigmentation

November 14, 2024

What Is Pigmentation: Types, Causes, Treatments, and Products

Pigmentation is a common condition that affects people of all skin types. It occurs when certain parts of the skin appear darker than the rest. This is due to the unregulated production of melanin in skin cells, the pigment responsible for your complexion. Not only does pigmentation cause uneven skin tone but it also takes a toll on your mental well-being. Therefore, we are bringing you an exhaustive guide on pigmentation treatment – a mix of home remedies, professional procedures, and topical serums . Keep reading and say hello to an even, radiant complexion. What Are The Different Types Of Pigmentation? Before we delve deeper into the treatments, it's important to understand the different types of pigmentation - 1. Sun or liver spots: This type of pigmentation appears in tan, black or brown spots on the skin –caused due to continued sun exposure. Liver (or sun) spots are more common in adults. 2. Melasma: If you have observed large patches of disclouration on the skin, you’re probably grappling with melasma. This type of pigmentation is common in people with deeper skintones, women on birth control, and those who are expecting. 3. Inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation surfaces after a nasty episode of breakouts or any other kind of trauma to the skin. Causes Of Pigmentation On Face? Pigmentation is generally an indication of an underlying skin concern. Additionally, here are some other triggers that can cause inexplicable dark spots or patches on the skin 1. Imbalanced hormones 2. Lifestyle choices like smoking and erratic sleep cycles 3. Skin diseases 4. Episodes of inflammation 5. Irritated skin 6. Melasma 7. Continued exposure to harmful UV rays 8. Reaction to drug use How To Prevent Pigmentation? Once pigmentation sets in, it is a little tricky to reverse the problem. However, you can use some tips and tricks to avoid the formation of new spots and blotches. Take a look - 1. Avoid direct sunlight: One of the biggest culprits of pigmentation is continued sun exposure. To prevent this problem, we recommend staying indoors (especially between 10 am to 2 pm) with a generous slather of sunscreen. 2. Use hats and scarves: To double down on efforts for sun protection, use scarves, caps, and wide-brimmed hats while stepping outdoors. 3. Use SPF religiously: Avoid pesky liver spots with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Pick a formula that is lightweight, non-greasy, and doesn’t leave a white cast. 4. Try Vitamin C: Add Vitamin C to your daily skincare STAT! The antioxidant shields your skin against harmful UV rays, free radicals, and other pollutants. Moreover, topical application of Vitamin C fades spots and patches by inhibiting melanin production. Professional Treatments To Remove Pigmentation While pigmentation is nothing to feel awkward about, we can understand the desire to cast it away. With the help of tried-and-true cosmetic procedures, you can attain smooth, even-tone skin in a jiffy. But before you jump on the bandwagon, we recommend consulting with your board-certified dermatologist. 1. Chemical peels: A chemical peel removes your skin’s outermost layer (a.k.a. epidermis) to reveal smooth, even skin. The process uses Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid at higher concentrations to lighten pigmentation caused by sun damage or melasma. 2. Laser Treatment: Also known as skin resurfacing, the process uses targeted beams of light to remove dark spots and patches. Laser treatments are further divided into 2 categories – ablative and non-ablative. The former involves the shedding of several skin layers to unveil an even skin tone. Whereas non-ablative laser treatment focuses on the dermis and boosts Collagen production to treat stubborn dark spots. 3. Intense Pulse Light Treatment: IPL or photo facial is a sub-category of non-ablative laser treatment. IPL focuses on the dermis and bolsters Collagen production in the skin cells. You would need a handful of sessions at your dermatologist's office to see favourable results. Additionally, IPL works wonders on acne scars and depressions. 4. Microneedling: The non-surgical treatment involves cautiously piercing the epidermis with ultrathin needles. These punctures trigger Collagen and Elastin to regrow tissues and undertake repair – inadvertently reducing spots and patches. What Are The Best Active Ingredients To Treat Hyperpigmentation If you wish to tackle pigmentation right at home, you can opt for an anti-pigmentation cream with the following skin brightening ingredients - 1. Vitamin C: The active ingredient is dubbed as the holy grail of lightening. Vitamin C in your daily skincare inhibits melanin production when applied topically. It helps administer an even complexion while enhancing your skin’s latent brightness. Use a Vitamin C moisturizer in your morning and nighttime routine. 2. Azelaic Acid: Found in my anti-acne products, Azelaic Acid inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase – which further produces melanin. Moreover, the active ingredient reduces acne-related inflammation and redness. 3. Niacinamide: If you have little to medium pigmentation, try skincare workhorse Niacinamide-infused moisturizer. The beloved ingredient controls the melanin distribution across skin cells, ensuring an even skin tone. 4. Retinol: The anti-ageing ingredient is also a great remedy for dark spots and patches. When applied in the form of a serum or moisturizer, Retinol buffs away dead cells and boosts Collagen production to fade dark spots and patches. Home Remedies And Natural Treatments To Treat Pigmentation There are several kitchen ingredients that abate pigmentation and dark spots. Use them in your weekly skincare routine and see the results for yourself. The best part about these natural remedies for pigmentation – is the reduced risk of side effects! 1. Aloe Vera: Rub pure aloe vera gel on affected areas and rinse it off in the morning. Aloin in the gel helps break melanin in skin cells, substantially depigmenting the area. 2. Tomato: Grind a fresh tomato to create a thin paste. Apply it to problem areas and let it sit for 20 minutes. Vitamin C and Lycopene in the tomato reduces dark spots while reversing the effects of photodamage. 3. Milk: Milk, buttermilk, and other dairy products are replete with Lactic Acid that tackles pigmentation while ensuring soft, supple skin. Apply it on your skin and wash it off after 15 minutes. 4. Potato: Rich in natural (and safe bleaching agents), potatoes give you an even and luminous complexion. Apply potato juice to concern areas to depigment. 5. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple Cider Vinegar carries Acetic Acid that lightens and brightens your skin. Mix ACV and water in the same ratio and apply it to the pigmentated areas. Leave it for 2 to 3 minutes and rinse off with cold water. What Are Some Lifestyle Changes To Prevent Pigmentation To help double down on efforts for great skin (sans the spots and patches), one must take a long hard look at their lifestyle choices. Everyday habits like your diet, sleeping habits, and more have a direct impact on your overall skin health. Here are some changes to consider that help keep pigmentation at bay 1. Wear sunscreen: Experts suggest that Indians need SPF 30 or higher for formidable sun protection. Ensure to add a potent sunscreen for pigmentation prevention into your AM routine. 2. Manage your stress: Studies show a clear correlation between excessive stress and episodes of pigmentation. The release of cortisol (or the stress hormone) triggers the production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which causes skin pigmentation. To prevent this problem and promote good health (skin and otherwise), we recommend meditating daily, practicing mindfulness, and dabbling in yoga. 3. Load up on antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins: You are what you eat. Load up your plate with antioxidants that curb pigmentation by neutralizing free radicals. Additionally, try spinach, carrots and other vitamins-infused foods that help reverse sun damage. Skincare Products That Fade Pigmentation Finally, stick to a simple yet effective skincare daily to wane dark spots and pigmentation with time. 1. Start by cleansing: Cleansing removes dirt, debris, and other impurities to rejuvenate your skin. It helps improve blood circulation to your face, balances the skin’s pH, and creates a smooth canvas to better absorb serums and other treatments. Pick formulas with Hyaluronic Acid, Salicylic Acid, and Marine Extracts to ace the radiant base. 2. Treat Next: Once your skin is dry, opt for an active-infused serum or treatment for optimal results. You may try a Vitamin C Serum to fade dark spots and pigmentation while boosting Collagen production. Folks with oily skin can try a Niacinamide Serum instead. 3. Moisturize: To seal this treatment into your skin, apply a generous slather of moisturizer. Additionally, a moisturizer prevents TEWL, soothes inflammation, and makes your skin appear extremely soft! 4. SPF For Max Protection: End your skincare routine with sunscreen. A potent formula shields your skin against harmful UV rays to prevent pigmentation. Apply 2 fingers’ worth before stepping outdoors and reapply every 2 hours. Conclusion Pigmentation is a common concern caused by – continued sun exposure, hormonal imbalance, trauma to the skin, response to a medicative drug, and many other reasons. These dark spots can make your complexion appear uneven and blotchy – impacting your self-esteem. Luckily, there are several cosmetic procedures, home remedies, and topical treatments that help reduce pigmentation while promoting overall skin health.

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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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