Types Of Face Washes and Benefits

Best face washes on Foxtale

A face wash in your daily routine dislodges dirt, grime and sebum from the pores for a refreshed complexion. Additionally, picking the right formula can help combat underlying skin concerns ranging from excessive greasiness to dehydration. But how do you make this choice? Don’t worry, Foxtale is here to help!

In this blog, we take you through types of face wash and their benefits. From our innovative acne face wash to a hydrating formula that replenishes your skin’s moisture content – scroll ahead to make an informed choice. Before we get into specific skin concerns, let’s refresh our basics on face wash.

 What Is A Face Wash?

 Available in gel, cream and foam-based formats, a face wash is meant for deep cleaning the pores. A potent formula removes the most stubborn traces of impurities without hampering the skin’s natural pH. 

 What Are The Benefits Of A Face Wash?

A face wash has a flurry of benefits when used right.

1. It Ensures A Clean, Bright Surface: Using a face wash buffs away dead cells and debris on the dermis, ensuring a clean, bright surface. This also ensures healthy cellular regeneration overnight for rejuvenated skin.

2. Improves Blood Circulation: Using a face wash regularly improves the blood supply to the skin cells. This increases the collagen production in your skin, making it look taut and supple.

3. Keeps Pores Clean: Your skin bears the wrath of pollutants and other environmental aggressors on the reg. This leads to an unwanted build-up on the dermis which may clog the pores – further leading to whiteheads, blackheads or even acne. A meticulous face wash prevents clogged pores, keeping bumps and eruptions at bay.

4. Facilitates Better Absorption Of Serums/Treatments: Using a face wash cleanses the pores, ensuring better absorption of your serums/treatments.

5. Soothes Inflammation And Redness: Using formulations infused with Hyaluronic Acid,  Glycerine or more, offset inflammation or redness caused to the skin.

How To Use A Face Wash?

While there is no rulebook for using a face wash or cleanser, you can use these tips & tricks for the best results.

1. Amount: Use a coin-sized amount of your face wash and work it into a lather. Next, use a light hand and scrub your face gently for 30 seconds –  while being extremely cautious around the eyes/lips.

2. No Vigorous Rubbing: To reiterate, aggressive rubbing can be abrasive to the skin. It can strain your skin and should be avoided at all costs.

3. Double Cleanse: After 30 seconds, use cold water to rinse off. Cold water makes your skin look taut while minimizing the appearance of pores.

4. Never Overwash: Use your face wash only twice a day (during your morning and night time routine). Overwashing can expel natural oils from your skin, making it flaky and uncomfortably dry.

Best Face Washes And Benefits

Now that you have learnt the many benefits of face washes, it is time to add one to your skincare routine.

1. Hydrating Face Wash 

Concern It Targets: Dehydration, dullness, premature signs of skin ageing, inflammation 

Skin Types: Dry to normal, extremely dry & sensitive skin

Key Ingredients: Sodium Hyaluraonte and Red Algae Extracts 

Foxtale’s multitasking formula contains gentle surfactants that remove dirt, grime and traces of SPF from the skin. It carries hero humectants that deeply hydrate the skin, ensuring its soft and supple appearance. The best part? You can use the moisturizer face wash as a makeup remover for a refreshed, glowing complexion.

2. Acne Control Face Wash

Concern It Targets: Excessive greasiness, clogged pores, acne, buildup, dullness 

Skin Types: Oily and combination skin

Key Ingredients: Salicylic and Hyaluronic Acids, Niacinamide


Salicylic Acid at the heart of the formulation buffs away dead cells and excess sebum for a smooth, radiant surface. The meticulous yet gentle formula combats clogged pores, acne, and inflammation without disturbing your skin’s natural pH. Additionally, the presence of Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid in the face wash helps promote overall skin health.

3. Purify & Glow Cleanser + Mask

Concern It Targets: Dirt, dullness, oily T-zone

Skin Types: All

Key Ingredients: French Pink and Kaolin Clays, Sodium PCA 

 Who doesn't love a multitasker in their vanity? We sure do. Foxtale’s Purify & Glow Cleanser zaps the dirt and excess sebum from the pores, ensuring a balanced microbiome. You can use it as a daily cleanser or a rejuvenating 10-minute mask to unveil the latent radiance of your skin. We love how the formula serves as a tall glass of water for your skin, ensuring its soft, supple appearance.

Conclusion: A potent cleanser is integral to reap the maximum benefits of your skincare. This formulation removes dirt, grime and impurities from your pores, ensuring a healthy microbiome. Moreover, depending on its ingredient profile, this skincare staple also addresses concerns like acne, dryness, dullness and more.

 FAQs 

1. Can I use a face wash daily?

Ans) Absolutely. A face wash promptly removes dirt, grime, and impurities from the pores, ensuring a healthy microbiome. You should use this skincare staple twice everyday.

2. How to choose a face wash?

Ans) To pick the perfect face wash, you should have an infallible understanding of your skin type and its underlying concerns. If your skin type is dry or sensitive – use gentle, hydrating formulas. For combination and oily skin, use an exfoliant-based cleanser to slough off dead cells, debris, and excess sebum.

3. How to wash my face correctly?

Ans) Use a coin-sized amount of your favourite Foxtale face wash and scrub it gently on your face. After scrubbing for 30 seconds, use cold water to rinse off. 

4. What is my skin type?

Ans) Follow these steps to identify your skin type.-

If your skin appears oily with visible pores, your skin type is oily.

If your skin feels uncomfortable tight, looks dry or flaky – your skin type is most likely dry.

If your skin appears to be a mix of dry and oily skin types, it is combination.

If you experience breakouts, redness, hives, cracks and irritation at the slightest inconvenience, it is mostly sensitive.

5. How much face wash is enough?

Ans) Experts suggest that a coin-sized amount of your face wash is enough. Rub this formula between your palms for lather and gently scrub for 30 seconds.

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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Hydrating Face Wash

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Acne Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid

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January 6, 2025

The Dos And Don’ts Of Skin Hydration

Hydration is vital for your skin, no matter its type. Whether from within or with the aid of topical products – regular hydration boosts barrier health, accelerates skin healing, plays a role in cellular renewal at night and so much more. To help you make the most of this process, we are bringing you a list of dos and don’ts. Adhere to this guide and realise your skin goals without breaking a sweat! Before we get to this cheatsheet, let’s explores the benefits of hydration Why Is Hydration Important For Your Skin? Ample hydration benefits the skin in the following ways - 1. More elastic skin: Hydration improves your skin’s elasticity, making it appear taut and supple. 2. Softens fine lines and wrinkles: Adequate hydration also boosts Collagen production, softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Therefore, humectants-infused products should be a part of your anti-ageing regimen. 3. Bolsters the lipid barrier: Your skin’s outermost layer (a.k.a. the lipid barrier) helps avert harmful pathogens, pollutants, and other environmental aggressors. Regular and sustained hydration ensures this barrier’s maximum efficiency. 4. Soothes irritated and inflamed skin: Regular hydration helps soothe inflammation and irritation on the skin. But that’s not all. Hydration also helps accelerate healing – treating wounds, scars, and more. 5. Alleviates dryness and flakiness: Hydration revives dry, flaky patches on the skin, making it appear smooth and even. Moreover, the process enhances your skin’s latent radiance. 6. Ensures better absorption of your serums and treatments: Adequately hydrated skin facilitates better absorption of skincare products like serums and treatments. Active ingredients in the formulations percolate deeper into the skin to address relevant concerns like dullness, acne, fine lines and others. Dos Of Hydration To reap the maximum benefits of hydration, here are some tips you can use - 1. Drink plenty of water: Internal hydration plays an important role in your skin’s appearance. It flushes out toxins, restores the moisture balance and makes the skin look plump. 2. Use a hydrating moisturizer: Another way to double down on hydration efforts is by adding a potent moisturizer to your skincare rotation. Try a formula infused with humectants (like Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin) that bind water molecules to the skin. Moreover, opt for emollients and occlusives in the formula that prevent TEWL or transepidermal water loss for best results. 3. Incorporate Hyaluronic Acid in your routine: On top of a hydrating moisturizer, we recommend adding a Hyaluronic Acid-based serum to your routine. A Godsend for folks with dry and dehydrated skin – the serum’s water-like consistency allows it to percolate deep into the skin and restore the moisture levels. 4. Use a gentle cleanser: No matter how concise or elaborate your skincare routine is, cleansing ought to be its first step. Use a pH-balancing and gentle face wash that doesn’t make your skin feel stripped. Additionally, look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerine that replenish your skin’s moisture content. 5. Eat water-rich foods: Load up on foods packed with water, minerals, antioxidants that hydrate your skin. Such items include oranges, avocado, kiwis, apples, blueberries, celery, cucumber, coconut water and more. Don'ts Of Skin Hydration Avoid this skincare mistakes at all costs to maximise hydration - 1. Avoid over-washing your face: While cleansing your face twice daily is non-negotiable, over-washing can dislodge your skin’s natural oils and make it dehydrated. 2. Don’t skip sunscreen: Skimping on sunscreen also increases the risk of dehydration. You see, continued exposure to UV rays damages the barrier and displaces the skin’s natural oil – often making it dry and flaky. 3. Steer clear of alcohol-based products: Is your skin getting dehydrated despite multiple efforts? If yes, check your skincare products for alcohol. For the unversed, alcohol in your toners, moisturizers, or creams, expels moisture molecules from the skin, making it dry. 4. Don’t ignore your body: Skin is the body’s largest organ. Yet its care is often limited to the face. We recommend focusing on hydrating body care – body gels and lotions that bind moisture molecules into the skin for its soft, supple appearance. Common Myths About Skin Hydration Ahead, we list some common hydration myths that can derail efforts for good skin 1. Hydrating products only work for dry skin: Absolutely not – this is a myth. Hydration is crucial for the upkeep and maintenance of all skin types. 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Since the cold, dry weather has the tendency to dehydrate your skin (even more), opt for a heavier, emollient-rich moisturizer during winter. FAQs 1. How much water should I drink for hydrated skin? You should drink at least 8 glasses of water for plump and radiant skin. 2. What are the best ingredients for skin hydration? Ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, Niacinamide, Ceramides, Aqauporin Boosters, Betaine, and D-Panthenol are best for skin hydration. 3. Can overhydration damage the skin? Yes, over hydration can lead to maceration. This condition occurs when the skin barrier becomes soft due to excessive moisture.

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December 23, 2024

Niacinamide For Acne: The Science Behind Its Skin Clearing Benefits

A skincare all-rounder, Niacinamide works on multiple fronts like improving hydration, fading dark spots, and strengthening the lipid barrier. But what is really understated is the role of the active ingredient in acne care and prevention. If you’re someone who grapples with oiliness or acne, scroll ahead to learn the many benefits of Niacinamide. But before we get to this cheat sheet, here’s a look at the ingredient’s basics. What Is Niacinamide? Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, abundantly found in eggs, fish, poultry, veggies, and nuts. The water-soluble active plays an important role in maintaining overall skin health. The best part? Niacinamide has little to no side effects and works on most skin types. You can also layer Niacinamide with Salicylic Acid to double down on acne control, with Vitamin C, for brightening, with Hyaluronic Acid for multi-level skin hydration. How Does Niacinamide Work To Clear Acne? Niacinamide helps clear acne by working on multiple factors - 1. Alleviates inflammation: One of the best anti-inflammatory ingredients, Niacinamide soothes redness and irritation often accompanied by an acne breakout. 2. Reduces the severity of acne: While Niacinamide is not exactly antimicrobial, it ensures a skin microbiome which is less conducive to bacteria growth. 3. Skin barrier repair with Niacinamide: Topical application of Niacinamide strengthens the lipid barrier. A strong and sturdy barrier prevents pollutants, allergens, and other aggressors from irritating the skin, preventing acne breakout/spread. The Benefits Of Niacinamide For Acne-Prone Skin Keep acne at bay with these Niacinamide benefits for acne-prone and oily skin. 1. Sebum Control with Niacinamide: The main culprit behind pesky acne breakouts – overactive sebaceous glands. The overproduction of oil along with dead cells, debris, and other impurities clogs the pores, leading to bumps and inflammation. Luckily, Niacinamide in your daily skincare blots this excess sebum on your face for healthy skin. 2. Prevents clogged pores: Niacinamide also prevents clogged pores that reduce the risk of whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. 3. Minimizes the pores: We know that acne-prone skin is characterized by overzealous sebaceous glands. This overproduction of oil (a.k.a. sebum) makes the pores glaringly visible, a common complaint of the skin type. Enter Niacinamide. Use it regularly to blur the pores for a smooth, even surface. How To Incorporate Niacinamide In Your Skincare Routine Niacinamide is mostly a safe active ingredient for all skin types. It pairs exceptionally with other actives like Salicylic Acid and Retinol for acne control. You can use it in your morning or nighttime routine for best results. But before applying Niacinamide - 1. Thoroughly cleanse: Use a gentle, pH-balancing cleanser to remove the dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores. This step ensures better absorption of your Niacinamide serum. For acne-prone skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Acne Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid. 2. Now, apply Niacinamide: To curb oiliness, minimize pores, and tackle different signs of acne, use our 12% Niacinamide Serum. Formulated with double-encapsulated technology, the lightweight formula gives your bright and smooth skin in only 14 days. 3. Follow with moisturizer: Once the serum sinks into your skin, apply a layer of moisturizer. A generous slather of our Oil-Free Moisturizer seals the hydration and Niacinamide treatment into the skin for prolonged periods. It doesn’t feel greasy and clog pores even in the slightest. 4. SPF in the morning, without fail: If you’re using Niacinamide for acne in the morning, remember to apply sunscreen. Active ingredients can make your skin photosensitive and to avoid any flareups you need 2 fingers’ worth of matte sunscreen. Research And Evidence: Does Niacinamide Really Help Acne? According to a research paper published on the National Library of Medicine, 6 out of the 10 subjects observed a substantial reduction in acne with Niacinamide – oral and topical treatments. Additionally, no major side effects were noted. To learn more about the benefits of Niacinamide for acne, refer to this research paper on MDPI. Other Skin Benefits Of Niacinamide Apart from combating acne-related concerns, Niacinamide works on several skin concerns – as seen briefly in the introduction. In this section, we delve deeper into the benefits. 1. Fights dark spots and pigmentation: Topical application of Niacinamide reduces dark spots and pigmentation to administer an even skin tone. The ingredient achieves this by controlling the melanin distribution across skin cells. For best results, pair Niacinamide with Vitamin C in your morning/nighttime skincare routine. 2. Maintains skin hydration: Niacinamide forms a seal on the dermis, preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. Pair with a Hyaluronic Acid-based serum to maximize hydration for the skin. 3. Averts aggressors: The skincare workhorse is also replete with antioxidant properties. It shields your skin against pollutants and other environmental aggressors. Possible Side Effects Of Niacinamide And How To Avoid Them Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated amongst most individuals, a handful of folks may experience- 1. Allergic reactions: First time users may experience rashes, redness, and other types of flareups. Counter this problem by discontinuing the product and speaking to a board-certified dermatologist. 2. Dryness, bumps or uncomfortable tightness: Rarely, a handful of people may experience dryness or an uncomfortable dryness to their skin. This usually happens due to the skin’s unfamiliarity with the active ingredient. To curb these episodes, conduct a patch test beforehand. Start with a low concentration of Niacinamide 2 to 3 times a week. If your skin reacts well to it, amp up the frequency. Conclusion Niacinamide is a skincare all-rounder that addresses multiple concerns, but its role in acne control is underrated. Topical application of the active ingredient soothes inflammation, curbs acne-causing bacteria and maintains a healthy skin microbiome. Use it in your morning and nighttime rituals for best results. FAQs 1. Can Niacinamide replace other acne treatments? You can pair Niacinamide with other acne treatments like Salicylic Acid for best results. 2. How long does it take to see results from Niacinamide? While it may vary from person to person, you should see results of Niacinamide within 4 to 6 weeks. 3. Is Niacinamide safe for sensitive skin? Most definitely. Niacinamide soothes inflammation, boosts barrier health, and preserves hydration – making it a good fit for sensitive skin. 4. Can I use Niacinamide with other acne treatments? Yes! You can pair Niacinamide with acne treatments like Salicylic Acid and Retinol. Niacinamide helps counter any accidental inflammation that may occur from the latter ingredients’ use.

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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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December 6, 2024

Dark Spots On The Legs: Causes And How To Treat Them

Noticing dark spots on the legs? In most cases, these spots or patches are due to the overproduction of melanin in certain areas of the skin. For the unversed, melanin is the substance that gives your skin its unique tone. The more melanin you produce, the deeper your skin tone becomes. While these dark spots are generally not worrisome – they do make your skin tone look patchy and uneven. So, in this blog, we delve deeper into ways to get rid of pesky dark spots on the legs. Additionally, we explore different causes and types of dark spots and pigmentation you may be grappling with. What Causes Dark Spots On The Legs? To get rid of dark spots on your legs, you need to be well-versed in its different causes - 1. Sun damage: Dark spots may appear on your skin due to continued sun exposure. That’s right. Direct sunlight triggers your skin to produce more melanin, leading to an uneven skin tone. 2. PIH or Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: If you have underlying skin concerns like eczema, psoriasis or acne – you may notice dark spots in and around the affected areas. 3. Injuries: Trauma to the skin in the form of cuts, wounds and bruises also leads to discolouration on the legs. 4. Age Spots: Folks above 60 usually struggle with age or liver spots. These random dark spots and patches appear on your feet and legs – and other body parts often exposed to direct sunlight. 5. Genetics: You may have a genetic predisposition to dark spots and patches. How To Prevent Dark Spots On The Legs Age and genetic-related dark spots on the legs cannot be cured. Having said that, you can take measures to protect your skin against sun damage. 1.Wear sunscreen: Don’t limit sun protection to your face. If your legs are exposed, ensure to apply a shot glass of sunscreen on them. We recommend opting for a broad-spectrum formula for infallible sun protection. 2. Aloe Vera: If you’re prone to dark spots on the legs, might we recommend adding aloe vera to your skincare rotation? According to expert studies, aloe vera breaks melanin in skin cells, administering an even skin tone. 3. Avoid direct sunlight: If you can, we recommend avoiding direct sunlight between 10 am to 4 pm. This little step can save you from dark spots and pigmentation on the legs. How To Remove Dark Spots On The Legs If you want to get rid of dark spots on your legs, here are some treatments for your consideration Professional Treatments Folks with severe dark spots on their legs can opt for the following professional treatments. But before you go down this route, make sure to get a medical diagnosis. 1. Laser Therapy: Laser therapy uses beams of light to shed the skin’s outermost layer and boost collagen production – fading dark spots and pigmentation in the process. 2. Cryotherapy: The widely popular method uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove dark spots on the legs – or anywhere else on the skin. 3. Chemical peels: Peels are replete with Lactic Acid or Glycolic Acid that exfoliate the dermis and reveal a smoother, even tone surface. Best Ingredients For Dark Spots On The Legs Alternatively, you can fade the menacing dark spots on your legs, using active ingredients. For those unaware, active ingredients seep deep into the skin to address concerns like overactive melanin production. Here are our top picks- 1. Vitamin C: The brightening agent fades dark spots and patches by inhibiting melanin production. Use it in your body wash or lotion to see results with time. The best part? Vitamin C also shields your skin against pollutants and free radicals. 2, Niacinamide: This skincare all-rounder curbs melanin synthesis across skin cells, helping fade dark spots on the legs. 3. Glycolic Acid: The potent yet gentle exfoliant sloughs off your skin’s outermost layer to reveal a more even tone complexion. Best Products To Remove Dark Spots On Your Legs Here are some active-infused body care that help remove dark spots on the legs 1. Brightening Body Wash: Infused with glow boosters, Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid – the Brightening Body Wash ensures even-tone skin in 30 days. Use it in your bath and body rituals to eventually fade dark spots on the legs. 2. Brightening Body Lotion: Powered with Vitamin C and Niacinamide, Foxtale’s Brightening Body Lotion tackles dark spots while enhancing your skin’s latent glow. The best part? This SPF 30 formula also shields your skin against harmful UV rays. Conclusion Dark spots on the legs may appear due to factors like age, genetics, sun exposure, and skin trauma. While mostly harmless, do recommend your on-call doctor or a board-certified dermatologist if you have severe dark spots or discolouration of the skin. If unrelated to a medical issue, you can opt for professional treatments or active-infused body care products to get rid of these dark spots.

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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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