Why Should You Use Niacinamide In Winter?

February 11, 2025

By Srishty Singh

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.

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.

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

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.

October 10, 2024

By Srishty Singh

Every skin type demands a unique approach for its upkeep and maintenance. Take, for example, the combination skin type. It carries characteristics of oily and dry skin, requiring formulations that cut excess sebum while ensuring intense hydration for the skin. Additionally, to tackle this tough combination of oil along the forehead, T-zone and chin while the rest of the skin feels dry – one must avoid certain skincare mistakes at all costs. Intrigued? Keep reading. Before we divulge this list of don’ts, let’s further understand combination skin. What Really Is Combination Skin? In simple terms, combination skin is both oily and dry – with the distribution varying from person to person. If you are confused whether your skin type is combination or not, here are some factors to consider. 1. Massive pores: Since combination skin carries excess shine along the T-zone, forehead, and chin – you may notice conspicuous and enlarged pores here 2. Inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne: The never-ending oil slick on your face attracts dirt, grim, and other pollutants all day. This unwanted buildup often clogs the pores, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, and even acne. 3. Uneven distribution of oil/dry patches: Another challenge faced by the combination skin type – you may observe an uneven distribution of grease and dryness during transitional weather. Case in point, during the colder months, the oily parts can feel normal while the dry patches may feel parched. What Are The Best Ingredients For Combination Skin? Before we get to all the combination skin mistakes, here’s a quick look at the best ingredients for this skin type. 1. Hyaluronic Acid: The potent humectant binds water molecules to the skin, banishing dry spots and patches from the skin. Moreover, ample hydration regulates sebum production ensuring a balanced microbiome along the T-zone, forehead, and neck. 2. Salicylic Acid: The oil-soluble ingredient cuts excess oil, unclogs pores and soothes inflammation – making it a great fit for the combination skin type. Salicylic Acid is meticulous yet gentle, it doesn’t make your skin feel stripped or uncomfortably dry. 3. Niacinamide: Skincare acid Niacinamide helps strike a balance between effective shine control and hydration. The topical application of Niacinamide acts like a sponge that soaks excess sebum and prevents clogged pores while ensuring a brightening effect for the skin. Niacinamide also prevents TEWL (or transepidermal water loss), upholds barrier health, and alleviates inflammation. 4. Lactic Acid: The gentle exfoliant expels excess oil and improves your skin’s water-holding capacity, making it a great choice for combination skin. What Are Some Mistakes That Combination Skin Should Avoid? To double down on efforts for great skin, here are all the combination skin mistakes to avoid - 1. Using harsh cleansers: Cleansing is the most important step in a skincare routine that removes dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores. Using a harsh cleanser, however, makes your skin stripped and makes way for flare-ups. 2. Picking comedogenic products: It's no secret that combination skin is prone to clogged pores, especially along the forehead, down the nose, and around the chin. To avoid these concerns, we recommend using formulas that are non-comedogenic at all costs. 3. Giving your moisturizer a miss: Moisturization is key for healthy skin and combination skin type is no exception. A potent moisturizing formula creates a protective barrier on the dermis, preventing TEWL. This in turn preserves skin hydration and regulates oil control. 4. Going overboard: The best way to maintain your skin is by adhering to a simple yet effective daily routine. Use result-oriented formulas that address pertinent concerns and steer clear of redundancy. 5. Not exfoliating regularly: The process of exfoliation dissolves dead cells, debris and other impurities to elevate overall skin health. Additionally, exfoliation removes excess sebum and dry patches, making it a non-negotiable for combination skin. Having said that, we recommend steering clear of over-exfoliation as it makes your skin feel stripped, marrs the barrier, and leads to inflammation. What Are The Best Products For Combination Skin? Attain your skincare goals with the best skincare products for combination skin. From an efficient pH-balancing cleanser to a formidable mask – here’s everything you should cart. 1. Best cleanser for combination skin: Add Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash to your skincare rotation now. The Salicylic Acid face wash cuts excess sebum, prevents clogged pores and flattens acne bumps – making it the perfect choice for combination skin. 2. Best serum for combination skin: Folks with combination skin can reach out for various serums depending on their concerns. For effective oil control, try Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum. To alleviate acne, blackheads or whiteheads, place your trust in Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum and so forth. 3. Best face mask for combination skin: If you want salon-like brightening overnight, try Foxtale’s Overnight Glow Mask. It contains Lactic Acid that helps exfoliate dead cells, minimize pores, and brighten your skin. Moreover, Lactic Acid and Provitamin B5 ensure a big dose of hydration, plump up the skin and make it appear soft and supple. 4. Best moisturizer for combination skin: A potent moisturizer forms a protective barrier on the dermis, preventing the active ingredients and water molecules from escaping. For combination skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer. It balances sebum production and ensures long-lasting hydration without clogging the pores on your face. Powered with Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Marine Extracts – this product is a Godsend for combination skin folks. 5. Best sunscreen for combination skin: Looking for a sunscreen that bodes well for combination skin. Try Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen STAT. The Niacinamide-infused formula blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores, ensuring a brightening effect for the skin. This broad-spectrum formula shields the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing episodes of tanning, burns, photoaging, and more. FAQs 1. What is a good routine for combination skin? - Start by cleansing with Foxtal’s Acne Control Face Wash - Apply treatment of choice - Follow up with Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer - Fortify sun protection for the skin with Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen