Skincare
The Essential 4-Step Skincare Routine for Your ...
Sensitive skin often calls for more care and that can be an intricate process for you – specifically when you...
The Essential 4-Step Skincare Routine for Your ...
Sensitive skin often calls for more care and that can be an intricate process for you – specifically when you don't know the right products to start with or have absolutely no clue about the sensitive-skin-friendly ingredients. Dealing with constant skin roughness, redness, patches, inflammation and itching can be a turn-off and may lead you just to sit back and give up. This detailed blog will help you build a skincare routine for sensitive skin with a positive approach. Additionally, we have added some tips to give yourself calm and smoothen skin. So scroll through the blog to start your sensitive skincare journey. Understanding Sensitive Skin & Its Causes What is a sensitive skin? It’s not a skin type but a condition caused by an array of factors including genetics, environmental aggressors, eating habits, or stress. This condition develops when the sensory nerves present on the upper layers of your skin react with sensations, components, and beyond. If your skin tends to react often with specific skincare ingredients, fragrances, or any edible substance, you may have a sensitive skin condition. You may have had this condition for a while without realising it, and you only found out when your skin reacted strongly after coming into contact with a trigger. Sensitive Skin Causes Multiple causes, both internal and external can give rise to your skin's sensitive conditions; External causes: We all are quite aware that damage caused by sun exposure can be severe. It can trigger your skin's sensitive behaviour. Apart from this, harsh detergents contain sodium lauryl sulphate which is enough to shed the natural oil off your skin. Other than that, pollution, weather fluctuations, and harmful makeup products can equally contribute a damage to the skin's barrier. Internal causes: When it comes to internal triggers, stress, alcohol, and meals can largely impact your sensitivity to the skin. In the case of women usually, hormones play an integral role too. Realising that you are bearing sensitive skin is the initial step to treating it. You must know the difference between sensitive skin and allergic skin reactions. People often confuse these two conditions. Asking your dermatologist will be of great help as they can diagnose and start your treatment. Ideal Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin Creating a perfect skincare routine tailored for your sensitive skin requires a little different-than-usual approach as you need to choose ingredients and products very carefully. They should be specifically made for your skin and approved by a dermatologist at the same time. Let's see what skincare routine we need to follow; Step 1: Start with a mild cleanser Getting your skin rid of dirt, oil, and sebum is at the top of every skincare expert’s list and should be. This step creates a clean canvas for the other products to absorb on the skin. But you need to be gentle with your skin knowing that it’s vulnerable. Opt for a mild cleanser that deeply cleanses your skin without depleting the natural oils of your skin. Make careful consideration and select a cleanser that's intensely hydrating. Our Cream Cleanser is emollient-enriched, infused with anti-inflammatories like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree, and antioxidants like vitamins A, B, C and E as its key ingredients. It soothes your skin and replenishes the ultimate hydration making your skin feel plump and bright. Suitable for rough, dry, and inflamed skin, this cleanser additionally works on the ageing signs on your skin. Step 2: Proceed with a concern-targeting serum Addressing your ongoing skin concerns can pose additional challenges when you possess sensitive skin conditions. However, choosing an appropriate serum with the right ingredients can make a difference significantly. Don't expect your serum to treat the condition. Rather it can alleviate symptoms like inflammation, and redness. You must take your dermatologist’s help to know which ingredients work for your skin. Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin can benefit the easily irritated skin. Radiance 3D serum has 10% niacinamide that may improve the resilience of your skin aiding in barrier repair, hyaluronic acid to induce moisture, and glycerin to make your skin plumper. This serum is for you irrespective of your skin type, if you are facing inflammation and dryness on your skin. It improves damaged skin, reduces post-acne hyperpigmentation, and mends barrier making your skin revitalised. Step 3: Hydrate with a moisturiser No matter what your skin type is, it calls for moisture. From repairing the impaired barrier to balancing the pH, moisturisers do good for redness, rough patches, and flare-ups while mitigating tightness on the skin. They can serve as a buffer between environmental influences like pollutants and your skin. You can choose a powerful emulsion like HydraCalm — a redness-reducing moisturiser to combat scaling, itching, and redness while healing your skin, adding moisture, and assisting barrier fortification simultaneously. With medical-grade ingredients like hyaluronic acid, biomimetic phytosterols, phospholipids and jojoba seed oil to control the sensitivity. Step 4: Follow with an eye cream You need hydration around your eye area it's much more prone to sensitivity. Flakiness around the eyes can be frustrating even more than the other parts of your face. It's best to choose an eye cream with soothing ingredients designed for irritated skin. Eye creams can quickly hydrate your skin alleviating the symptoms like itching and burning giving relief. Get your hands on DRSQ’s Eye Restore Snap-8 brightening eye serum which has arnica, an anti-inflammatory to reduce eye puffiness, squalene to heal the under-eye circles, and ultra-low weight hyaluronic acid to fight inflammation and redness. Getting the targeted skincare routine is fairly easy but not a piece of cake. You need to be conscious and identify first if your skin is facing sensitivity or if it’s merely an allergic reaction. By constantly sticking with this skincare routine, you can combat your skin’s sensitivity symptoms to a good extent. Best Practices for Sensitive Skin While following a skincare routine for sensitive skin, keep some tips in mind so that you don’t exacerbate your skin's condition; Know ingredients: Try to learn what you can use and what you must avoid as someone with sensitive skin. Harsh ingredients or high concentrations can do bad for your condition and can even trigger more irritation and redness. Hot water is not your friend: how showers feel good on the skin but they can encourage your very dry skin with sensitivity to behave worse. Instead, you can take a bath with lukewarm water in colder months. Don't rub, pat: You should completely give up your habit of rubbing your skin even with the softest fabric in the room. Pat it dry every time, regardless of your skin type and condition. Rubbing can make your skin rough and provoke a tingling and burning sensation. Make patch tests your habit: Adapt a habit of testing every product on your skin before actually start using it. You can do that on your elbow. Give up the product if inflames the skin in any way. Be gentle while applying products: Don't push or pull your skin harshly, get mild with your skin. Do small circulations motion rubs while applying anything. Key Takeaways Managing sensitive skin can be challenging if you don't know where to start with. Knowing if your skin is sensitive and not allergic is essential. People with sensitive skin conditions have their sensory nerves in the top layers of the skin react with triggers and substances. Sensitive skin is not a skin type, many people misunderstand this. From fragrances to spicy cuisines, stress to harsh detergents, several things can be the trigger for your skin if it's sensitive. Follow a skincare routine specifically planned for sensitive skin. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove the dirt and dirt. Follow with a serum, moisturiser and an eye cream. Keep some tips in mind including taking patch tests while trying on new products, and avoiding hot showers.
Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid: Can You Layer Th...
Use niacinamide if your ultimate goal is to minimise enlarged pores and glycolic acid if you are looking to improve...
Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid: Can You Layer Th...
Use niacinamide if your ultimate goal is to minimise enlarged pores and glycolic acid if you are looking to improve the texture of your skin, but what if you seek the concurrent benefits of both skincare ingredients? Combining the ingredients can help you reap the maximum benefits of both, or it can backfire on you as well. Some ingredients even work better together than alone and can offer comprehensive treatment, but does mixing go well with niacinamide and glycolic acid? So, if you're asking, "Can I use glycolic acid with niacinamide?" the response cannot be straightforward and requires a detailed evaluation. But there are some prerequisites before you know if you can use niacinamide with glycolic acid. Foremost is, knowing your skin. Assess your skin type to understand if these two ingredients can be effective for you. Moreover, seek a dermatologist's help to identify your concerns and learn about the ingredients to achieve optimal results. Niacinamide: Its Upsides An all-inclusive of hydrating, anti-ageing and replenishing properties, niacinamide or vitamin B3 is a skincare ingredient that can revitalise your skin from within by helping in keratin synthesis. This multipurpose ingredient has been in trend for a while long but this is not the sole reason for using it. Niacinamide helps in – Though it's not proven, niacinamide is suggested by many medical practitioners to reduce pore size. They can help in shrinking the size of enlarged pores by regulating the oil produced by sebaceous glands. If your skin suffers conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or inflammatory acne, niacinamide can soothe the condition. It mitigates redness and calms the skin. As indicated by research, niacinamide can strongly fight the signs of ageing with its antioxidant properties caused by environmental aggressors and stress. Niacinamide can really make a difference to your dark spots and enhance the tone and texture of your skin. It treats the stubborn spots by lightening them. Glycolic Acid: Its Upsides A type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid acts on the skin by dispelling the top layers of skin cells. Having the tiniest molecular structure, the glycolic acid can penetrate deep into the skin to provide the following major benefits; Ultraviolet light can cause some deep-rooted and serious damage to your skin and enhance the process of ageing as well, considered as photo ageing. Glycolic acid acts as an effective treatment in this condition and helps to heal the skin while reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Consistent use of this potent acid can help you fight all types of acne, including the comedonal acne that clogs your pores and a difficult to combat. Try a glycolic acid chemical peel. Glycolic acid being the capable exfoliant is one of the strongest reasons why many people love this skincare ingredient. It exfoliates the skin and improves the texture, removing dead cells. Your skin will feel softer and brighter. Pairing Niacinamide with Glycolic Acid There is a difference between glycolic acid and niacinamide's pH levels. Niacinamide has a pH of 3.0 to 4.0 while glycolic acid's pH level is somewhere around 6.0. This difference in their pH levels makes it inefficient to work together. So, it is not advisable to use them together. They won't reap any synergetic benefits. In fact, when you mix them together, niacinamide increases the pH levels of glycolic acid too making it less acidic. Together, they can irritate your skin and cause redness and inflammation. Having said that, you can definitely layer them at different times in your skincare routine. Let’s see how. How to Combine Niacinamide with Glycolic Acid You can make this integration of niacinamide with glycolic acid work efficiently for your concerns by combining them smartly; The best way would be to use them on different days, alternatively. To simplify this; if you have used niacinamide on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, use glycolic acid on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. If you still want to use both on the same day, use them at different times, that is niacinamide in the morning skincare routine and glycolic acid in the nighttime routine. This is the least you do to get benefits while saving your skin from harmful effects. In case of have no choice and you have to use them in the same routine, keep a gap of at least half an hour between niacinamide and glycolic acid application. Start with glycolic acid and let it absorb entirely before using niacinamide to make them work efficiently. Use a product having niacinamide and glycolic acid together. Get rid of the hassle of pairing them and taking many precautions. Instead, you can simply buy a product that has both these ingredients in a certain amount to suit your skin. This will save your skin from getting damaged. But how? You must be thinking of the hazards we listed above when these two ingredients get mixed. Didn't we mention that they both can irritate your skin? It's just that brands manufacture products combining niacinamide with glycolic acid in the appropriate quantities while keeping a balance in their pH levels. Must Read: Can You Use Salicylic Acid with Niacinamide? Renew & Glow: With Niacinamide and Glycolic Acid Together DRSQ endows a product with a potent amalgamation of niacinamide and glycolic acid blended with other effective ingredients. It is a daily exfoliating serum that deals with uneven skin tone, fine lines & wrinkles, and pigmentation. Renew & Glow softly exfoliates the skin and boosts cellular renewal further reducing the signs of ageing on your skin. It deeply hydrates and gives a soothing effect. The product is recommended for individuals with inflamed, dry, pigmented skin, specifically though it's compatible with all skin types in general. Key Takeaways Niacinamide is a skin revitalising ingredient offering multiple benefits, including pore and dark spot reduction, and may heal skin conditions like rosacea and eczema. Glycolic acid helps with fighting photo ageing and acne. It is an excellent chemical exfoliant that can enhance your skin glow. While you can use niacinamide with glycolic acid, mixing or layering them together is not recommended due to the difference in their pH levels. Either use them alternatively in a week or at different times of the day. Maintain a gap of at least 30 minutes after using one and another product including glycolic acid and niacinamide.
Should You Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Aci...
Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid have taken the skincare industry by storm. Where niacinamide is considered an all-rounder by many skincare...
Should You Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Aci...
Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid have taken the skincare industry by storm. Where niacinamide is considered an all-rounder by many skincare experts as they believe in the product for several skin concerns, from pigmentation to ageing; hyaluronic acid has the strength to deeply hydrate your skin. What if you are in dire need of both ingredients? Combining your skincare ingredients can make a pivotal difference in your skin, and doing it wrong may end up showing some normal to adverse side effects. Before mixing or layering any of your products, you must seek proper guidance and know about their pros and cons rather than diving in randomly. So, if you are a newbie to the skincare field who has just decided to start taking care of your skin, this basic guide to layering niacinamide with hyaluronic acid has your back. Niacinamide: The All-Rounder Skin Ingredient This is a form of vitamin B3 and offers several skin benefits by supporting the outer layer of your skin. It’s a water-soluble vitamin that is not naturally produced by our bodies, hence taken by the outer resources. Niacinamide is widely used by skincare enthusiasts to address a lot of skincare concerns. Providing a range of unparalleled benefits to our skin, niacinamide is proven to be one of the most reliable skincare ingredients. Helps inflammation: Niacinamide helps combat the inflammation specifically if it’s acne-borne to soothe your skin. Controls sebum: It mitigates the overproduction of oily substances on your skin, that is sebum, making it easy to manage your oily skin. While using niacinamide continuously, you will not only see reduced shine on your skin which was due to excessive oil but reduces the propensity of clogged pores too. Minimises pores: A lot of us contend with enlarged pores and niacinamide can improve the condition for you. Having a multifaceted approach, niacinamide prevents excess oil that further controls the clogging of your pores. Protects the barrier function: Ceramides and free fatty acids are the main essential components of the skin’s lipid barrier. Niacinamide boosts the production of these elements and protects the barrier function of the skin. Refines texture: Niacinamide is highly helpful in refining the tone and texture of your skin by working on the collagen and elastin production in your skin. You will witness the refined and smoother tone after using it consistently. Hyaluronic Acid: The Deep Hydrator Hyaluronic acid is a naturally found substance in your connective issues, especially in the eyes, joints, and skin. Why is hyaluronic acid so hyped? Its ability to retain moisture up to more than 1,000 times its weight has made it an ingredient of high regard. Being this powerful moisturising agent, hyaluronic acid contributes to skin elasticity, fighting ageing signs, and repairing damaged skin. Adding hyaluronic acid into your skin regimen confers a versatile range of positive effects; Deep hydration: No doubt! Hyaluronic acid intensely hydrates your skin like no other skincare ingredient by retaining moisture. It makes your skin supple and soft by preventing dryness. Fights ageing signs: Hyaluronic acid works on fine lines and wrinkles to reduce the visible signs of ageing and makes you look younger. Calms the skin: This ingredient soothes the skin by deeply hydrating the inner layers of your skin and adding calmness. If you have irritated or inflamed skin, its anti-inflammatory properties can aid the condition. Enhanced Suppleness: It acts against the loose skin making it supple and soft by maintaining elasticity. You will feel more plump and smooth skin by its regular use. Mixed with other skincare ingredients: Yes, hyaluronic acid is compatible with other skincare ingredients. So you can incorporate it easily into your skincare routine, be it for any purpose. Can You Use Niacinamide with Hyaluronic Acid? If you are pondering, “can i use niacinamide with hyaluronic acid,“ Yes, you can mix niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It's safe to use as both the ingredients are water-based and do not disrupt each other's effects. One great fact to talk about is both these ingredients share overlapping advantages and can be applied to any skin type so there are very less chances of irritation. However, if you face inflammation or irritation, contact the doctor without delay. Many experts address the idea of mixing niacinamide with hyaluronic acid as a smart approach to your skin. By using both of them, you're targeting overactive sebaceous activity, post-acne hyperpigmentation, dryness, and many more concerns. Benefits of Mixing Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid Do niacinamide and hyaluronic acid work together? If you practice the application of niacinamide with hyaluronic acid together, you can easily witness some of the visible differences in your skin associated with wrinkles and fine lines, tone and texture, dryness, and pigmentation. Let’s see some talked about synergistic benefits of using them together; Beginning with boosting the hydration in the skin, niacinamide adds to the activity of hyaluronic acid. Where hyaluronic acid traps moisture from the environment, niacinamide contributes to lipid synthesis that further prevents moisture loss. When your skin has enough moisture, it feels and looks good, has the ability to fight inflammation, and soothes the same. They both work conjointly to protect your skin's barrier and that can save your skin from being exposed to various upcoming troubles. They strengthen the topmost layer and neutralise free radicals to reduce the ill effects of pollution, sun damage, and other environmental aggressors. With age, your skin starts losing collagen ending up looking loose and saggy. Niacinamide when used in combination with hyaluronic acid, firms the skin's surface by increasing the expression of elastin as well as collagen, two primary components responsible for supple skin. How to Layer Them Together? While you know that using the combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can reap so many benefits for the skin, it’s equally crucial to layer them with a safe approach. Both are advantageous for all skin types, but you cannot choose to go random with them. Knowing whether to use hyaluronic acid vs niacinamide first can be advantageous to you. Follow the below-mentioned tips to make the best out of their combination; Always cleanse first: It's imperative to have a clean canvas for the products to get absorbed better. Make your face get rid of oil, debris, and dirt by washing with a mild cleanser. This will help both skincare ingredients to work more efficiently. Niacinamide before or after hyaluronic acid: You may be struggling with doubt about whether to apply niacinamide or hyaluronic acid first. We suggest hyaluronic acid followed by the niacinamide to lock in the moisture. This offers soothing effects and reduces the chance of any probable irritation. Ensure to check if hyaluronic acid treats your skin well before applying niacinamide serum. How long to wait between hyaluronic acid and niacinamide: Waiting for at least two to three minutes is recommended between applying each product. This practice enables your skin to absorb the former product better and reduces the risk of any irritation. Go for thinner consistency, if applying other than serums: Yes, in case, you are not using serums but lotions or creams, etc, apply the one with the lower concentration so that it gets absorbed widely into the skin. Then your skin becomes ready for the absorption of upcoming products. Don’t forget to moisturise: You cannot skip moisturiser just because you have used hyaluronic acid. A moisturiser helps lock in these serums' properties and allow them to rest on your skin’s surface for a little longer. Best to layer them at night: Many skin experts suggest that you should choose the “before bedtime” to layer niacinamide with hyaluronic acid. Your body along with the skin is in the repair mode and more receptive at night and the products absorb better. Do a patch test: Mixing niacinamide with hyaluronic acid usually doesn’t result in any severe side effects but every skin is different and unique. You must perform a patch test before applying any of these altogether. If it irritates you, consult your doctor immediately. Side Effects Generally, niacinamide is well-tolerated and suits almost all skin types but some of you may experience little to mild ill effects, including burning sensation, inflammation, pruritus, and erythema. On the other hand, hyaluronic acid is present in our bodies and doesn't usually have harsh reactions when applied topically. So, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide together don’t have any severe effects. However, if you face any irritation or burning sensation while applying these two ingredients sequentially, you must know the effective managing techniques; Rinse off the product immediately with cool water to remove any residue of the ingredients on your face. Try applying a cold compress to soothe the burning sensation in the affected area. Avoid heat and light as these can elevate the inflammation on your skin. Consult your dermatologist as soon as possible, if the issue persists after trying the steps mentioned above. Radiance 3D: Niacinamide Serum with Hyaluronic Acid Try Radiance 3D - DRSQ's niacinamide serum with hyaluronic acid. With 10% niacinamide, this serum primarily acts on the hyperpigmentation associated with acne scarring. Where niacinamide targets hyperpigmentation by normalising the melanin production in the skin, calms inflammatory skin conditions, including rosacea and seborrhoeic dermatitis, hyaluronic acid plumps the surface tissue and deeply hydrates the skin. Conclusion So, we have concluded that niacinamide can be layered with hyaluronic acid. Should you wish for beautiful and healthy skin, instead of deciding between niacinamide vs hyaluronic acid, you can try using both. Coming to hyaluronic acid or niacinamide first, you may start with hyaluronic acid for maximum benefits. It’s safe to use and usually, there are no side effects. But if your skin is susceptible and you feel irritation, you must take some measures to protect your skin. From hyperpigmentation to tough signs of ageing like wrinkles and loose skin, this combination can be your side while fighting them. Niacinamide supports the action of hyaluronic acid in the skin and works together to save your skin's barrier from being damaged.
How to Shrink Enlarged Pores
It is common to find “how to minimise enlarged pores” in most people’s search history. Let’s make this plain, one...
How to Shrink Enlarged Pores
It is common to find “how to minimise enlarged pores” in most people’s search history. Let’s make this plain, one can not eliminate pores wholly. It is not possible since pores are an imperative part of the body however they can be minimised substantially. In this blog, we will tell all about pores and how to diminish them. There are a handful of ways to unclog and tighten the pores. Let’s go ahead. What are pores Enlarged pores are small inlets all over the body having sebaceous glands beneath and hair follicles in them to carry oil, liquid, or particles. Their work is to carry sebum, a natural oil, from the sebaceous glands to the skin surface keeping it moisturised and hydrated. Over time due to multifarious reasons, pores enlarge around the nose, forehead, and cheeks. Several underlying factors cause them to expand. Pores should work healthily but there are ways to make them less noticeable. Types of pores For a deeper understanding, enlarged pores are of two kinds: Sweat pores: These pores are responsible for emitting sweat. They are present all over the body but are not visible to the naked eye. Here, we are not concerned with the sweat pores. Oil pores: Oil pores carry sebaceous glands beneath them. They are entrusted with the duty of producing natural oil or sebum for the skin. These when get clogged with dirt and dead skin cells, enlarge now and again. When enlarged they are visible to the naked eye easily. Causes of enlarged pores There are a number of triggers for enlarged pores. Have a look at them to determine what is your cause of enlarged pores. Age: As we age, our skin starts to loosen elasticity and collagen. As a result, pores widen. Collagen pushes and squeezes the pores to become smaller. They supply structural support to the skin. Genetics: Genetic makeup plays an impactful role in inheriting larger pores. Yes, you heard it right, genetics also define the size of the pores. Also, ethnicity and race are responsible as well. Gender: Physiologically, men have larger pores as compared to women. However, owing to menstruation, pregnancy, and puberty pores can enlarge on a woman’s face. Oily skin: It is a well-known demerit of oily skin. Oily skin can also be inherited. The sebaceous gland is responsible for producing sebum and in people who have oily skin, it produces excessive sebum resulting in clogging the pores when it combines with dirt, dead skin cells, and other impurities. The pores get stretched. Sun exposure: Overabundance of exposure to the sun causes the skin to be damaged. It makes the skin lose its elasticity and collagen making the pores visible. Thick skin: People who have thick skin may have enlarged pores. The hair follicles that carry the sebum are wide which is why the pores appear large in size. Bad skincare regime: Pores can be visible due to poor skincare routine. Not properly exfoliating and cleansing or having no skincare routine at all is one of the reasons. The dirt and other impurities along with makeup residue get stuck in the pores making it appear large. Environmental influence: High toxin levels and humidity in the air may also cause clogging of the pores leading to enlargement. Skincare routine to minimise the enlarged pores A well-defined skincare ritual is necessary to prevent the pores from widening. We are dropping a step-by-step routine for you. Cleansing: Cleansing is usually the first step in any skincare routine. The cleanser removes the dirt and oil gently. It is advised to wash the face with warm water first. Take a non-comedogenic and most preferably a gel-based cleanser and massage it onto the skin for a minute followed by gently rinsing it off. Avoid any cleanser that has abrasive and scrubbing agents as they tend to rub off the natural oils of the skin. It is important to use cleansers twice a day, morning and night.We recommend DRSQ’s Cleanse & Hydrate which is suitable for all skin types. It is known to clear the skin of any impurities and calm it simultaneously leaving it hydrated. The non-comedogenic esters work on the skin heavenly and help in barrier repair. Exfoliation: When dirt, dead skin cells, and other impurities get stuck in the pores they cause it to expand. Exfoliation is an excellent method to gently remove these impurities. It should be done at least twice a week and can be gradually increased. Take a sufficient amount of the product and gently apply it on the skin, rubbing in a circular motion for 30 sec followed by tenderly rinsing it. For greater efficiency, look for an exfoliant enriched in AHA or BHA.We recommend Repair serum, which is a skin-clearing exfoliating serum with 5% Salicylic acid. It is made to target enlarged pores and has AHAs as well. It exfoliates the skin and proves deep hydration. Toning: They are utilised to minimise the size of the skin cells and also work to reduce the enlarged pores. Toner helps in getting rid of excess dirt or oil that remains in the pores even after cleansing. To use a toner, damp a cotton pad with the product and gently rub it all over the face. Do not scrub the skin. You can also switch to toner pads for an easy application.Avoid, toners with alcohol as one of their main ingredients. Moisturising: Moisturising is the most noteworthy step in any skincare routine. People with enlarged pores and oily skin have this certain belief that additional moisture will worsen their condition. But is a myth, that a good moisturiser will help the natural oil of the body to reach into the deeper layers of the skin. Look out for a lightweight and non-comedogenic moisturiser to hydrate the skin. We recommend Hydrafusion luxurious moisturiser with a lightweight formula and hyaluronic acid. It provides deeper hydration and heals impaired barrier function additionally providing cell protection and nutrition. Masking: A remarkable supplementary product to add to your skincare routine. Masks are a great way to remove any impurities once in a while. It should not be used regularly, especially as a part of the skincare routine but applying a clay mask once a week can bring significant change by eliminating contaminants.Clay mask works by sucking the unnecessary stuff and oil. Sunscreen: It is another vital product. Get a sunscreen that minimises the enlarged pores. Not wearing any skin protection can make the pores more visible. Also, wear it indoors and outdoors. It is recommended to reapply it every 2 hours and get sunscreen with more than 30 SPF. Chemical Peel: Chemical peels are known to work under the skin and tighten the pores. It removes the damaged outer layer of the skin. It is advised to use a chemical peel under the supervision of the dermatologist and not personally. Changes in lifestyle that help in minimising the pores You must have heard from the elders about changing your lifestyle when you encounter any issue in your life. Well, they are partly right. Bring little changes in your lifestyle to minimise the pores to an extent. Here’s what you can do: Stay hydrated: Lack of hydration is the cause of many issues and staying hydrated solves most of them. As recommended by doctors, 2 litres of water should be consumed daily. It helps hydrate the skin from the inside and removes toxins too. Massage: Massaging the facial skin is a great way to boost the blood circulation. It stimulates lymphatic drainage and removes the toxins. Facial massage can be really helpful in minimising the pores. Steaming: It can assist in cleaning any debris from the pores. Steaming can soften the skin, heat the blood vessels, and open the pores. It is suitable for all skin types. Incorporate it into your life by steaming once a week for not more than 5-7 minutes. Excessive steaming can cause drying of the skin. People affected with Rosacea should also monitor their condition closely. Stress coping: You must have heard people commenting that exam or life stress is taking a toll on their skin. Stress is the pivotal cause behind many issues. Coping with stress would solve half of the problems. Persisting stress can affect the skin negatively. Take time out for a walk, meditation, yoga, etc. As long as you manage the stress, fewer breakouts will take place. Refrain from alcohol and smoking: Giving up alcohol and smoking can significantly minimise the size of the enlarged pores. These two habits are often linked to bad health and skin. They are the leading cause of various acne forms and enlarged pores. Clear makeup before sleeping: Sleeping with a face full of makeup can harm the pores. The makeup gets combined with dirt and bacteria overnight which can cause the pores to appear larger. It is recommended to always clear your face of any debris or makeup before heading to bed. Makeup remover is a great method to remove the makeup followed by a mild cleanser quickly. Wear sunscreen consistently: Sun exposure can increase the risk of drying the skin and causing the pores to appear larger. Wear sunscreen regularly to minimise this risk. Add non-comedogenic products: Non-comedogenic products do not clog the pores as clogging of the pores leads to expansion. Always choose products, whether skin care, hair care, or makeup, that are non-comedogenic. Exercise: Maintaining a healthy body is directly proportional to healthy skin. Regularly exercising can increase the blood flow and decrease the stress level. Eat a balanced diet: Eating a diet that is full of grains, vegetables, fruits, and meat is necessary for healthy and glowing skin. Ingredients to look for to minimise the pores We have carved out a skincare routine to minimise the pores. Now, let’s delve into skincare product ingredients that you should look out for while incorporating a skincare routine. Salicylic acid: A form of BHA, salicylic acid works outstandingly to remove excess sebum, dirt, dead skin cells, and other contaminants from the skin. When it is removed and the pores clear out, the size of the pores shrinks. Add salicylic acid to your skincare products. Use salicylic acid in cleansers, toners, and masks, or opt for salicylic acid as a serum. Niacinamide: Niacinamide or Vitamin B3 is an efficient skincare ingredient to add. It is known to tighten the loose pores resulting in smaller pores. Niacinamide can be used as a serum directly or in a moisturiser. AHA: Alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic and glycolic are the most preferred skincare ingredients. AHA increases the production of skin cell turnover and minimises the size of the pores. It is a must-add ingredient. Retinoid and Retinaldehyde: Both of these ingredients have proven themselves as agents responsible for clearing out the pores, enhancing skin texture, and skin cell turnover. It is recommended to use them in smaller quantities and increase them as per the instructions of the dermatologist. Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is the most popular skincare ingredient right now. It helps increase collagen generation and reduces the pore size as a result. Conclusion Enlarged pores are not friendly to look at and deal with. One needs to adopt a proper strategy to combat them. It is important to get to the root cause of the problem and then sculpt a target-based plan. Everyone's skin is distinctive and maintaining a healthy lifestyle along with taking appropriate steps has become a necessity to achieve the goal. We would like to emphasise in the wrap-up that there are several causes of enlarged pores some of them are, aging, genetics, not wearing sunscreen, gender, etc. coupled with bad lifestyle habits like, not removing makeup at night, not using non-comedogenic products, consuming alcohol and cigarettes, not exercising at all increase the risk of enlarged pores. Keep in mind to follow the skincare routine and keep an eye on the improvements of the skin simultaneously.
What Role Does Antioxidants Play in Our Skincare?
Whether you want to protect your skin or give it a perfect glow, try out a powerful skin ally often...
What Role Does Antioxidants Play in Our Skincare?
Whether you want to protect your skin or give it a perfect glow, try out a powerful skin ally often overlooked but always found promising in the skincare industry. Yes, you guessed it right! We are talking about antioxidants. You may have seen or heard a lot about antioxidants and wonder what exactly they are! Especially, in the skincare niche, antioxidants have made their way into a diverse array of products whether it is a serum or an eye cream. However, their effects are cumulative and you have to be consistent while using them. As we always recommend; patience is the key. In this blog, we are going to explore these less talked about potent protectors and the benefits they hold for your skin. What are antioxidants? To put it simply, antioxidants are compounds that safeguard your cells against specific damages. They do so by neutralising oxidative stress and free radicals. These free radicals when present in large quantities are harmful and often associated with several health conditions. There are some activities or aggressors that can increase the formation of free radicals in the body, including; Cigarette smoking High levels of blood sugar Prolonged exercises Infections from bacteria, fungus, and virus Toxins Air pollution, etc While our body has its own mechanism to fight these free radicals and keep us safe, sometimes we need to supplement them in the form of food or skincare products to get the maximum of their benefits. By adding antioxidants to skin care products, brands add an extra layer of defence against atmospheric stressors, trying to provide you with several skin aids comprising, anti-ageing benefits, brightening of the complexion, and overall well-being of the skin. How do antioxidants work? But how do they work? There's a simple chemistry behind this phenomenon. We have free radicals in our bodies that are in their unstable state. These free radicals are molecules with one or more than one electron. Due to this typical structure, these molecules become highly reactive and vulnerable to oxidation. You must have seen that sliced apple turned brown. Yes, the same case! Now, in order to gain stability, they get to react with other molecules. This provokes a chain reaction that further causes harm to the structure and genetic material (DNA) of otherwise healthy cells. These free radicals cause damage to the skin that triggers inflammation. This inflammation interferes with the usual self-repair procedure of the skin. Now, the skin has to focus on combating the inflammation triggered by these free radicals instead of focusing on its self-repair. What's the outcome? It disrupts the ability of the skin to heal itself and various skin issues arise, like irritation, redness, and a broken skin barrier. Antioxidant benefits for your skin Let's dig down to know why these skincare brands out there, are obsessed with including antioxidants in their formulations. Antioxidants can bring forth a multitude of benefits such as; Soothes inflammation: Free radicals cause inflammation inherently. Antioxidants have the ability to reduce inflammation and they might offer a calming effect too. According to the dermatologists, all antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties. Protects from UV Rays: Antioxidants may act as your umbrella against harmful ultraviolet rays. You may find them in sunscreens for this reason. Combats Ageing: Ageing is such a stubborn concern impacting every human being. Though it's a natural process, its arrival before time, that is premature ageing caused by external factors such as UV rays, pollution, smoking, etc, can be troublesome for you. Antioxidants may help you fight back and look younger and radiant.Antioxidants neutralise free radicals which would stimulate the production of collagen within the body. This collagen helps you to fight the early signs of ageing such as fine lines, sagging skin, and wrinkles. Brightens the skin tone: Yes, you read it right! Your skin's melanin production can be highly impacted due to sun exposure and free radical activity. This can result in hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and spots on the skin. Antioxidants may play a vital role in this regard. Best antioxidants for your skin Having said the above-stated points, you don’t need all the anti-oxidants that are present in the world. Just include those that are highly useful for your skin and target that one specific concern that you are facing currently. Here it’s crucial to know that antioxidant is not one specific ingredient. Yes! You will not find written “antioxidants” on any skincare product. Rather these are a group of a wide range of ingredients that work collectively in the same way, that is, to fight the damage caused by free radicals. Check below for the extensively researched and widely used antioxidants in skincare formulations; Niacinamide: A highly popular, strong antioxidant, and a beneficial skincare ingredient that offers a combination of protective and hydrating properties to your skin. It may help with dark spot reduction, skin tone and texture improvement, giving a youthful radiance.It is beneficial for all skin types and reduces inflammation from eczema and other inflammatory conditions of the skin. Vitamin C: Vitamin C needs no more pieces of evidence to prove its efficacy in skincare. It's vitally loaded with antioxidants that can destroy free radicals and promote the synthesis of collagen.Containing ascorbic acid, it aids wound healing and lowers skin pigmentation. The daily dose of vitamin C through your skincare products, preferably a serum can decrease the dryness and provide moisture to the deeper layers of your skin. Vitamin E: It’s a fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E restricts your skin from losing moisture and protects cells against damage. Moreover, its prolonged usage can soften the skin's surface and make it plump. It may be helpful in reducing the ill effects of sun damage. By using vitamin E to fulfil your dose of antioxidants, you are taking a smart step. It strengthens your skin's barrier and is super moisturising too. Phytoextracts: It is a broad range of botanical extracts used in skincare products, specifically due to their antioxidant properties. You must have seen names like, "rosemary, calendula, or green tea", written on the labels of a variety of products. But the list is too long to mention here alone.Along with being highly anti-inflammatory, they have moisturising factors that help to protect the skin from within. Retinol: Retinol has already proven itself in various skin concerns. It prevents clogged pores responsible for acne and blackhead formation and increases proliferation and collagen production. You will find your skin younger-looking, fresh and plump after a long and disciplined use.It's a potent ingredient known for its ability to promote cell turnover. Topical retinol includes Adapalene, Tretinoin, Bexarotene, etc.People facing skin ageing issues like fine lines and wrinkles may find solace with consistent use. Another derivative of vitamin A, called retinaldehyde is highly powerful offering almost the same benefits. It's preferred by some skin experts due to its more potency as compared to retinol. Polyphenols: Polyphenols are rich in antioxidants and help with UV rays damage and ill effects of smoking on our skin. Many skin experts suggest that polyphenols can slow down the process of ageing and reduce the wrinkle appearance caused by sunlight.They possess anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin and reduce swelling. Skincare products formulated for acne and other inflamed skin conditions may contain these polyphenols. Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 or ubiquinone can aid the damage done by environmental aggressors such as UV rays and pollution. They prevent premature ageing influenced by external factors and support cellular turnover leading to a vibrant and luminous complexion.It strengthens the skin's barrier, improves hydration levels of the skin, and makes the skin supple and smooth. How to choose an antioxidant-rich skincare product? Finding any type of antioxidant is not a hassle for anyone. The market is full of ingredients that are categorised as antioxidants. While you're done with understanding your underlying skin concern and its causes, or done with consulting your dermatologist, follow some below-mentioned tips to get your antioxidant journey started - What are you looking for? It’s from where you start. Just because you have read about the antioxidants and you are sure that they favour your skin - this is not a very strong reason to buy them. Know your goal. Yes, we are pointing toward your skin issue. Do you need them to fight your blemished, wrinkles caused by sun exposure or the luminous glow? Don't rely on the antioxidants alone Antioxidants are beneficial and there is not a single doubt about this fact, but you must look for the other active ingredients that your skin requires. Look for peptides, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, etc, to keep your skin glowing. Glycolic acid and lactic acid can really help your skin reveal some much-needed radiance. Go for more Try out the products that have more antioxidants. By more numbers, we mean different types. It’s nothing like you can just be satisfied with one or two and sit back to wait for the results. This strategy can work, undoubtedly but there’s nothing wrong in looking for more ingredients to reap benefits. Seek an expert's advice Consulting your dermatologist would be a smart idea while stepping into the use of antioxidants. They will help you with the right types, the right amount, and even when and how to use them. Almost every product out there in the skincare niche is inclusive of antioxidants, and that doesn’t necessarily mean you need all of them! Look for brand credibility Research well before trying out something new! Your skin is not some canvas to try out experiments and learn with results. Ask your dermatologist for any specific brand that they prefer. It’s best to check which brands are authentic and known for their incredible results before you step in to buy. Wrap-Up The best piece of advice you must follow while using any skincare ingredient, be it antioxidants or salicylic acid, is to just be patient. Nothing can make you look young or glowing overnight. You have to be consistent and disciplined. From soothing your inflammation to giving you that forever young glow, antioxidants neutralise free radicals and trigger collagen production in the body. Antioxidants are easily available in the market don't buy them randomly. Do your research, ask the skin expert, and check if they are going to benefit your skin concern.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Face Serum
Face serums are incredibly popular today and almost all skincare brands are selling them - and making you believe this...
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Face Serum
Face serums are incredibly popular today and almost all skincare brands are selling them - and making you believe this is all you need. If you are into skincare, serums must be nothing new for you. But are you using the right one? Face serums include active ingredients including vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol but not limited to them. It is a translucent liquid added to the skincare regime to resist diverse issues. In this blog, we will help you find the right face serum for your skin type and when to use it. What is a face serum? Face serum is purpose-centric and has a concentrated formula to combat the objective and enhance the skin complexion a few notches. It is made up of simple elements and penetrates the skin deep to work effectively. Its compact consistency helps other skincare products layer more smoothly and competently. Kinds of face serums Owing to the massive popularity of face serums, they are available in several types on the market. For specific skin concerns, hydrating, and exfoliating serums are available, you need to identify your issue and pick the right one. Exfoliating Face serum: Exfoliating serums use chemical exfoliants to penetrate the skin and dissolve the dead skin cells. Applying an exfoliating serum not only eliminates dead skin cells, and blackheads but also brightens and smoothens the skin. These kinds of serums use AHAs such as glycolic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid whereas BHA exfoliating face serum includes salicylic acid.If you have oily skin that is also acne-prone, we recommend you use an exfoliating face serum that gently dissolves the holds of the dead skin cells leaving you with clear, unclogged, and fresh skin.We recommend DRSQ Renew & Glow serum with a combination of AHA and BHA that clears blocked pores and accelerates cellular production. Hydrating Face Serum: As the name suggests, hydrating face serum is excellent for dry skin types. A hydrating serum retains moisture in the skin so, look for a serum rich in hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid, a humectant binds moisture in the skin keeping it plump and soft.A hydrating face serum is essential for dry skin type but comes in handy for other skin types as well. Anti-ageing Face Serum: When the turnover of the skin cells slows down and the skin sags or develops wrinkles, and fine lines, the skin is said to be aging. Anti-ageing face serum consists of retinol, an all-rounder form of vitamin A. Retinol has proven itself to increase the production of skin cells, and elasticity and soften fine lines and wrinkles. Using an anti-ageing face serum keeps the skin youthful and smooth .You can try DRSQ Advanced Vitamin A serum that deeply penetrates the skin and battles the visible signs of ageing. Brightening Face Serum: Due to stress, pollution, and harsh UV rays, one can lose the glow of the skin. Brightening face serum is made to treat discolouration, and post-acne hyperpigmentation, and enhance the glow. Vitamin C is a potent ingredient in this serum also, Niacinamide works amazingly on the skin. Vitamin C is known to block the development of melanin and increase skin cell turnover. On the other hand, Niacinamide treats the uneven skin tone and trims the dullness of the skin.We recommend DRSQ Radiance 3D serum with 10% Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid that prevents hyperpigmentation and maintains the youthfulness of the skin. For vitamin C face serum, we recommend DRSQ ULTRA C serum enriched in vitamin C, which protects from sun damage and lightens and brightens the skin. Acne-fighting Face Serum: Due to excessive pollution, dust, and dirt it is common to face the blocking of pores. An acne-fighting face serum undertakes to fight acne, acne scars, and grey patches. People with chronic cystic acne should likewise pick this face serum. The components used in this are Retinol, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, etc. to minimise the clogging of pores and shrink breakouts.DRSQ Anti-acne & Breakout serum with 0.5% Retinaldehyde and manuka and tea tree oil that has calming and anti-bacterial agents can help. It lessens plump scar tissues, acne, and breakouts, and presents clear skin. Oil-controlling Face Serum: Some individuals experience an excess of oil production through sebum. It becomes necessary to control oil and for that, an oil-control face serum is a must-have that not only controls the production of oil but evens the skin tone also decongests the pores, and gives a glow to the skin. The prominent elements in this type of face serum are aloe vera, zinc, salicylic acid, and niacinamide.We suggest trying DRSQ Repair serum with 5% Salicylic acid, which is suitable for oily skin. Along with the main ingredient, it has a combination of AHAs and anti-inflammatory botanical extracts. Benefits of Face serum Face serum is an excellent element of a skincare regime that is target-oriented if chosen correctly. Here, we will shed some light on some of the benefits of incorporating face serum into your skincare routine. Soothes and nurtures the skin: Face serums are lightweight and penetrate the skin deeply to provide nourishment and heal the skin. It works under the skin's surface resulting in soften and soothing texture. Additionally, it improves the uneven skin tone. Enhance skin elasticity: A product that gives you radiant and youthful skin is vital. Adding face serum to your routine will improve skin elasticity by increasing collagen production giving the skin a soft, firm, and plump look. Scale down signs of weariness: Today’s hectic life of collages and work coupled with a bad sleep schedule takes a toll on our skin and results in visible signs of fatigue that make the skin lose its glow. Introducing a repair serum in the skincare routine can form a significant change in your skin and give you a radiant look. Hydrate the skin: It is difficult to drink 8 or more glasses of water every single day to keep our skin hydrated but applying a hydrating face serum that retains water in the skin is indispensable. A face serum rich in hydration keeps the skin looking healthy and glowy. Reduces visible fine lines and wrinkles: Face serum is outstanding in shielding the skin from wrinkles and fine lines. It is rich in antioxidants, green tea, and vitamins C and E. These key ingredients secure the skin from harsh UV rays and with regular use of a face serum, apparent lines can be minimised. Weakens dark spots: Face serum targets the melanin present in the skin and with vitamin C being the active element, it diminishes the dark spots and face scars. Subsides inflammation: Some face serums are made to target rosacea and inflamed skin. To combat this, ingredients such as aloe vera, calendula, chamomile, and green tea are used. The calming effect of these gives soothing relief to the skin. How to apply Face serum Adding face serum to your skincare regime is a great way to enhance your beauty and treat mild issues. In this, we will tell you what is the correct order of applying a face serum. Cleanser: Before applying anything, the skin must be clear of any dust, dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities. Start the routine by cleansing the skin and paving the way for upcoming components. DRSQ Hydrating cleansing gel is a perfect cleanser for dry, sensitive, and normal skin. Enriched in Jojoba oil, Vitamin E, and organic aloe that cleanses the skin and leaves it hydrated. Toner: People often treat toner as an option but it comes in handy for dry and sensitive skin. It prepares the skin for the application of serum, balances the pH balance, evens the skin tone, boosts hydration, and further removes any dirt or impurities clinging to the skin. Face serum: Applying face serum has to be target-oriented based on your specific issues. Choose a serum that is best suited for your skin type. Moisturiser: Moisturiser is usually the last step in the skincare routine as it locks in moisturiser and boosts hydration. Once you are done with all the steps, apply a thick layer of moisturiser to hydrate the skin. DRSQ HYDRACALM Moisturiser with hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, chamomile flower extract, cucumber seed oil, and aloe is an excellent combination to calm and hydrate the skin. It is suitable for all skin types. When to use the Face serum To answer the most common question, when to use the face serum? It is best to use the face serum twice, morning and night. Before applying moisturiser, take a pea-sized amount or 3-4 drops of serum into your hands and rub it in an upward motion from your face to neck for smooth application. Factors to keep in mind while choosing a face serum Before hopping into any skincare routine, it is essential to choose a face serum correctly. Here we are listing down some factors to keep in mind whilst shopping. Skin issue: Make sure you are aware of what is wrong with your skin first. Since serums are made for a specific concern, identify what you are battling with for example, do you have hyperpigmentation, dehydration, acne, wrinkles, or fine lines? Based on the result, choose the correct face serum. Skin type: Irrespective of the amazing formula of the face serum, it is useless if it is not synced with your skin type. One can not use oil-control face serum having dry skin. It would not only be ineffective but also suck the essential oils from the face. For dry skin, look for skin-calming, anti-oxidant-rich face serum with thickness to combat the concern. For oily skin, choose a lightweight but effective face serum. Components: We have discussed above how different kinds of face serums use different active ingredients. After knowing about your skin type and skin concerns, make sure you are buying the face serum with the correct ingredients. Potency: It is not safe to use any product with a higher potency as a beginner. You never know what can go wrong. Always look for serums in lower concentrations and slowly increase them. Wrap up Choosing the right face serum can make a huge difference in your life. Face serums are lightweight and get easily absorbed, making them convenient to add to the skincare routine. You can achieve healthier skin as you now know what, when, and how to choose correctly.