Understanding Your Sunscreen Label: SPF, PA, and Broad Spectrum Explained

January 6, 2025

By Srishty Singh

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. This process binds moisture molecules to the skin to bolster barrier health, accelerate healing, soothe inflammation, defer ageing signs and more. 2. All moisturizers are the same: This is definitely a myth. All moisturizers are not created equal. If you have dry skin, opt for an emollient-rich formula. Alternatively, folks with oily skin can use a lightweight, gel-based moisturizer that doesn’t clog the pores. 3. You need moisturizer only during winters: Fact check, this is a common myth. Your skin needs moisturizer all year round. A potent moisturizing formula creates a barrier on the dermis preventing TEWL (or transepidermal water loss). 4. Sunscreen isn’t important for hydration: Continued exposure to UV rays zaps moisture from the skin, making it feel stripped. A generous slather of sunscreen prevents this problem. 5. Oily skin doesn’t need hydration: This is a very common myth. As discussed earlier, hydration is vital for all skin types. For folks with oily skin, ample hydration keeps the sebaceous glands in check – reducing the shine of the face. What Are Some Expert Tips For Long-Lasting Hydration Here are some expert tips that will keep your skin hydrated for long periods . 1. Layer hydrating products: To maximize hydration for the skin, layer a potent Hyaluronic Acid Serum with a skin-appropriate moisturizer. The humectant, HA will bind moisture molecules to the skin whereas the moisturizing formula will put a sturdy lock on hydration. 2. Use antioxidants like Vitamin C in your routine: Pollutants, harmful UV rays, and other aggressors have the tendency to dehydrate your skin. To circumvent this problem, use a Vitamin C serum in your AM routine. 3. Adjust your skincare routine seasonally: The biggest skincare mistake one can commit is using the same products during summer and winter. 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.

December 13, 2024

By Srishty Singh

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.

December 6, 2024

By Srishty Singh

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.

November 14, 2024

By Srishty Singh

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.

October 10, 2024

By Srishty Singh

With ill-suited products, skincare efforts may be like one step forward, two steps back. To help break this tiring cycle, we are bringing you the best-targeted solution for combination skin. Since this skin type carries both dry and oily skin characteristics – a little help from us to scour and vet couldn't possibly hurt. Scroll ahead for oil-control and hydrating skin care products for combination skin that address specific concerns like dullness, pigmentation, acne and more. But First, What Is Combination Skin? If you experience greasiness in the T-zone, forehead and chin while your cheeks stay dry, chances are you’ve combination skin. Still can't figure? Here are some additional signs for identification - 1. Enlarged pores: Due to the unregulated sebum production in and around the T-zone, the forehead, and the chin – you may observe enlarged pores. 2. Clogged pores: The never-ending oil slick on combination skin attracts dirt, grime, and impurities all day. This leads to an unwarranted creation of pore-clogging buildup on the T-zone, the forehead, and the chin. If further aggravated, these plugged pores may turn into pesky whiteheads or blackheads. 3. Frequent breakouts: Do you know what happens when bacteria start thriving in plugged pores? Conspicuous bumps with inflammation a.k.a. acne. If you notice frequent breakouts in and around the T-zone, the forehead, and the chin – you most likely have combination skin. 4. Uneven greasiness and dryness: The degree of greasiness or dryness combination skin experience is subject to change. When it is hot outside, the oily parts may become oilier while your cheeks appear normal and vice versa. 5. Blotchy makeup application: People with combination skin may have an unpleasant experience wearing makeup. It may slide off the oily areas while hugging your cheeks for dead life. What Causes Combination Skin? You may grapple with combination skin due to the following reasons - Your genetic makeup - Certain skincare products - Extreme weather conditions and environmental factor - Hormonal changes or influences What Are Some Non-Negotiables For Combination Skin? Before finding targeted solutions for combination skin, here are some non-negotiables you should bear in mind. Scroll ahead to learn and make an informed decision 1. Use gentle, hydrating and pH-balancing cleansers: To maintain combination skin, opt for a mild, hydrating formula that doesn’t meddle with your skin’s pH. Look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, Aquaporin Boosters, Betaine and more. 2. Avoid oil-based formulas: Using oil-based formulas, especially creams can clog the pores and lead to breakouts. Instead, pick gel-based moisturizers to promote a healthy skin microbiome. 3. Use blotting paper: To effectively cut shine from problem areas, use blotting paper. Avoid aggressively rubbing your face with a towel, as it may lead to strain on the skin. 4. Exfoliate regularly: Use ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid to exfoliate the dermis. For those unaware, exfoliation cuts excess sebum and buildup to prevent whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. 5. Never skimp on moisturizer: Never skimp on moisturization to prevent greasiness and clogged pores on combination skin. Instead, opt for lightweight formulas that cut excess sebum while ensuring a big hydration boost to the skin. What Are Some Targeted Solutions To Deal With Combination Skin? If you’re looking to target specific skin concerns like dullness, acne or hyperpigmentation, here are the best result-oriented solutions for your consideration - 1. For oil control while ensuring hydration – Niacinamide To cut greasiness while rejuvenating dry spots on your skin, try skincare workhorse Niacinamide. A form of Vitamin B3 – Niacinamide blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores while improving your skin’s water-holding capacity. Additionally, the active ingredient upholds barrier health, soothes inflammation, and ensures a brightening effect for the skin. Our Recommendation – Foxtale’s 5% Niacinamide Serum 2. For intense hydration – Hyaluronic Acid If your skin is drier than its oily, we recommend adding Hyaluronic Acid to your daily rituals. The potent humectant can bind approximately X 1000 water molecules in its weight to the skin. Use the skincare acid to replenish moisture levels, regulate sebum protection, and soothe flare-ups instantly. Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Hyaluronic Acid 3. For brightness – Vitamin C If you want to enhance your skin’s latent glow, might we recommend Vitamin C for your routine? The efficacious ingredient inhibits melanin synthesis in skin cells to fade dark spots and pigmentation. Results? Radiant, even toned skin. Additionally, Vit C possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it safe for everyday use. Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum 4. For uniform complexion – Tranexamic Acid Dark spots and hyperpigmentation can make your skin look patchy. Enter Tranexamic Acid! The understated ingredient regulates melanin production while visibly brightening the skin. Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Rapid Spots Reduction Drops 5. For youthful skin – Retinol Premature ageing is a prevalent concern, regardless of your skin type. To keep the worry of fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet at bay, place your trust in Retinol. This holy grail of anti-ageing helps boost Collagen production in your skin to make it look firm and taut. Retinol’s ability to unclog pores and ensure mild moisture retention makes it a great fit for combination skin. Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Retinol Serum 6. For acne-free skin – AHAs and BHAs Excess sebum, grime, and keratin can clog the pores, leading to acne. Topical use of AHAs, BHAs dislodge buildup to prevent whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. Popular AHAs and BHAs include Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, etc. Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum FAQs 1. How do I know if my skin is combination? If you experience extreme greasiness on the T-zone, forehead, and chin while your cheeks appear dry and flaky – chances are you have combination skin. 2. What are the best products for combination skin? Step 1: Cleansing with Salicylic Acid Face Wash Step 2: Moisturize with Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer Step 3: Sun Protect with our Mattifying Sunscreen 3. What is the best face wash for combination skin? Try Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash for combination skin. Salicylic Acid in the formula regulates sebum production, alleviates inflammation, and combats non-inflammatory and inflammatory acne.