skincare – That Madras Mom

February 24, 2023

What is Collagen and why is it so important?

Of late, we’ve been hearing this word a lot more. Anything to do with skin, immediately brings up suggestions mentioning ‘Collagen’. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that plays a critical role in the health of our skin, bones, and joints. It is also an essential component of many other parts of our body, including our hair, nails, and muscles. For women, in particular, collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining youthful and healthy-looking skin, as well as providing support for bones and joints. It not only helps to maintain good skin but is also good for vibes and joints.

What is collagen, and how does it work?

Collagen is the protein found in abundance in our bodies, which is about 30% of the total protein content. It is a structural protein that provides support, elasticity, and strength to our skin, bones, and connective tissues. Collagen is produced by cells called fibroblasts, which are found in the skin, bones, and other connective tissues throughout the body. So now you know why it’s important not only for skin.

When we age , there is a decrease in collagen production and we see signs of ageing in bones, joints and skin. A predominant reason why we need collagen supplements and collagen-rich foods. These have become much more popular recently, as they help replenish the natural collagen and improve the appearance of skin, bone and joints.

The importance of collagen in women’s diet

For women, in particular, collagen plays an important role in maintaining youthful and healthy-looking skin, as well as providing support for bones and joints. Women’s skin is thinner and much more delicate than men’s, making it more prone to damage from the sun, pollution, and other environmental factors. As we age, the natural production of collagen in the body decreases, causing formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. By consuming collagen-rich foods and supplements, women can help replenish their skin’s natural collagen stores, leading to a more youthful and healthy-looking complexion.

Collagen is also essential for maintaining healthy bones and joints, which are especially important for women as they age. Women are more prone to osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions than men, due to factors such as hormonal changes and decreased bone density. Consuming collagen-rich foods and supplements can help improve bone density and strength, reducing the risk of fractures and other bone-related conditions.

Collagen-rich foods and supplements

There are several ways to consume collagen, including through foods and supplements. Collagen-rich foods include bone broth, fish, poultry, and other animal products that contain collagen. Supplements are also available in the form of powders, capsules, and drinks.

Collagen supplements are typically derived from animal sources, such as cows, pigs, and fish. They are made by processing the bones, skin, and connective tissues of these animals into a collagen-rich powder or liquid. Collagen supplements are available in a variety of forms, including powders that can be added to smoothies or drinks, capsules that can be swallowed, and gummies that can be chewed. We now also have various formulations that bring out plant based collagen supplements which is a welcome move for the vegans.

It’s important to note that while collagen supplements can be said to be beneficial for overall health and wellness, they cannot be relied on as the only source of collagen in the diet. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods is essential for overall health and well-being, and should be the primary focus of any dietary plan.

Collagen is an important protein that plays a vital role in the health of our skin, bones, and joints. For women, in particular, collagen is essential for maintaining youthful and healthy-looking skin, as well as providing support for bones and joints. By consuming collagen-rich foods and supplements, women can help replenish their natural collagen stores and improve the health and appearance of their skin, bones, and joints

January 13, 2023

5 must try makeup trends from tik tok

The beauty industry and makeup trends never sleep. The learning process of implementing new hacks or viral trends is no longer tough. Social media keeps you updated on trends and do not forget the tutorials to let you join the bandwagon of trends.

Though we did keep ourselves confined at home for years, the beauty and skincare industry kept coming up with new trends that kept the ball rolling. Not only these bring out creativity but a lot of these gave a refreshing turn to the monotonous makeup that we have been putting on all these years. Most importantly, a few hacks helped minimize the cost of product purchase and saved a lot of time in terms of the hacks used.

So here goes the list of 5 must try makeup trends from tik tok.

Glazed donut everything

Glazed donut skin . Image source : femina

The term sounds yummy, but the benefit it yields is more worthwhile. Hailey Bieber had to say that she does not want to look like a glazed donut when she hits the bed. A lot of us would want the same, not have full makeup on when we have the beauty sleep. So it’s advisable to cleanse off the makeup and moisturize the skin before you go to bed. So when you wake up your skin is glistening and glowing.

Red nails Theory

Since @girlbosstown popularized last year that red nails were getting her a lot of attention, the trend has been coming back. It attracts the opposite sex because they have pretty much seen their moms wearing those during the 90s and taking care of them which is the reason why they seem attracted.
#rednailtheory tag is full of women posting how it really worked for them.

Cold girl makeup

This viral trend is set to continue for some time longer though it became popular last year. The trend included applying blush from cheek to cheek and the tip of the nose giving a complexion flush during the winters when we come back from outside.

Wednesday Addams Glam

The goth glam comprising the ponytail, and smudgy eye makeup that Jenna Ortega portrayed in Netflix blockbuster Wednesday inspired thousands of beauty lovers to replicate the same. Beauty lovers eagerly anticipate the next season in Fall to get the trend.

Skin cycling

The trend is to improve the efficacy of the active ingredients and minimize irritation through rest periods. Starting with exfoliating on one night followed by retinoid on the second and then resting on the third and fourth. Night two is most beneficial for the skin and helps treat acne to eczema. 3 and 4 are recovery nights that can just be followed up with cleansing and moisturizing. But if you have dry skin, you can just lock moisture with suited products.

So here are some tried and tested successful trends that can keep you busy trying them out for the next couple of days if you are a makeup or a skincare enthusiast like me. Let me know in the comments if you would be trying or already tried any of these trends.

December 11, 2022December 11, 2022

How to protect your lips ? Winter lipcare secrets

Not many people who love the cold weather, can’t deny the fact it is harsh on your skin. It is so harsh on the skin, especially the lips. The cold and chill air, dry and heated air combination make it tight and easy to get cracked.

The first thing you think about before you step out is to cover the body, the last thing you think of would be the mouth or sometimes we even forget to cover it up. Lip skin is tight and delicate, different from the rest of the body, and requires extra TLC. if you compare the magnitude, it dries out ten times faster than the rest of the body.

This is predominant because the lips are covered with 3-5 layers of cells rather than the rest of the body where the skin has 15-16 layers. So being thin in nature it is susceptible to damage like dryness, dullness, and cracks.

The vermillion or the place where you apply lipstick has a thin protective barrier and hence it is more prone to UV damage and pollution.

How to take care of your lips?

CHOOSE THE RIGHT LIP BALM

Choose an ointment-based lip balm

Look for those which have petrolatum and glycerine that help in locking the moisture and help in healing the cracks and dryness.

Avoid those with eucalyptus and menthol

Although these lip balms seem to give you a soothing experience when applied, they tend to dry out the lips. So in the long run they will again lead to dryness and the cycle continues.

Use one’s which have sunscreen

Being thin in nature the lip skin gets more exposed to UV radiation be it summer or winter. Hence using one that has sunscreen will help protect against harmful radiation.

Keep yourself hydrated

Not getting enough hydration leads to dehydration also is one of the reasons for dried lips. Make sure to get the right amount of water.

No licking

It is a natural human tendency to lick the lips when we feel it is dry, but on the contrary, it makes the situation worse. It dries the lip out even faster. Moreover, saliva tends to irritate the lips.

Say no to rub and bites

The dryness may tend to make you get rid of the flaky skin so you attempt to either rub it off or bite it away. It can aggravate the cracking and even lead to sores. So try to control the urge to bite or rub the flakes away.

Prevention of chapped lips

When it comes to preventing chapped lips, following a lip protection regime as part of the morning, night, and outdoor skincare routine is essential. Lock the moisture in your lips by applying a lip balm before getting to bed.

Here are my product recommendations tried and tested for lip care.

Laneige lip sleeping mask

Vilvah grapefruit lipbalm

Ennbeauty pucker lip mask with hyaluronic acid

May 12, 2022May 19, 2022

Benefits of using cucumber- summer skin friend

When it’s summer we know that temperatures soar up high, your skin needs that extra care and hydration to keep itself glowing. None other than cucumber can be your best friend to help you out.

When we say cucumber for skin, the vivid picture that comes to our mind is a woman who has a towel wrapped on her head at a spa, having cucumber slices over her eyes and all masked up. But is it only on screen and does cucumber really help your skin. The answer is definitely yes.

Swelling, puffing, dark circles or whatever concerns the area around your eyes your inexpensive go to treatment was and is cucumbers.

So let’s see how it helps skin.

Cleanses skin

Cucumber helps in eliminating toxins from deep down the pores. Its a natural cleanser. Due to high water content it can be used as a toner that offers instant freshness when used on skin. Cucumber juice is an excellent alternative to alcoholic toners which comprises of harsh chemicals which can harm your skin.

Reduce dark circles

With abundance of antioxidants and silica , cucumbers help in lightening the dark areas around the eyes making it a successful home remedy for treating dark circles.

Treats fine lines and wrinkles

Though cucumbers contain higher water content they are also good agents for moisturising skin. Applying cucumber slices on the eyes and surrounding areas help in increasing the moisture there by reducing wrinkles and fine lines.

Reduce puffiness

Ascorbic acid and caffeine help in controlling water retention levels. Cucumbers have these in abundance and hence a great ingredient to help you deal with puffiness of eyes. Controlling water retention levels in turn helps in reducing swelling and puffiness around the eyes and surrounding areas.

Cooling agent

The cooling property of cucumber is the main reason that cucumbers are part of many skincare products that concern soothing inflamed skin. The cooling property helps in soothing the inflammated area and helps in faster healing. Products that have cucumber or simply using cucumbers for after sun skin problems will help in faster healing.

Here are some DIY eye pads that can help heal dark circles and puffiness

You need cotton pads and cucumber juice as main ingredients.

Cucumber and sandal

Sandalwood has skin brightening properties and hence when mixed with cucumber juice it makes a great face pack to lighten pigmentation.

Add 2-3 tbsp of cucumber juice to 2 tbsp of sandalwood powder. Apply on face and wash of when it dries off.

Cucumber and potato juice

Potato juice is another best ingredient in treating pigmentation. Imagine how the combination of potato and cucumber will work then.

Use juice of one cucumber and one potato. Dip cotton pads and place over eye. Remove after ten minutes. Do this on a regular basis to see amazing results.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.’

March 10, 2022

5 skincare mistakes you’ve been doing

While we all want a happy glowing skin, we also end up making some mistakes. Nobody is an exception when it comes to not making mistakes.

People try all sorts of remedies or tips to keep themselves on the safe skin side but what I’m gonna tell is that these minute mistakes might be happening unknowingly.

Here are five mistakes that you might be doing unknowingly.

Not using the right products for your skin

People get tempted when there is a new launch. Sometimes it’s the brand, the ingredient or your favourite star or even fellow peer group influencers who might make you fall into this. Always make sure you choose products according to your skin.

Ice facials

Probably one of the easiest DIY hacks . Make ice cubes of ingredients that address skin issues or your concerns and voila you are sorted. But nobody told you that you will have to be careful even if it’s a simple ingredient like an ice cube.

Applying ice directly on to skin can cause frost bite. It can cause blood circulation to slow down amd also appear like spidery veins on areas near nose and cheek. Always wrap a towel over the ice cube and massage on the face.

Facial steam

It is said that steam helps open up pores. When you take up facials, steam is given to open pores post which blackheads, whiteheads are removed. But it should also be only warm and not too hot. Very hot water can give you broken capillaries and also lead to permanent damage. So make sure you use a warm towel that’s moist and not a hot one.

Supplements without consultation

Always consult an expert before taking any supplement. It’s becoming a trend to start consuming collagen, HA, flaxseed and fish oil supplement. While there are reports that the ingredients are beneficial most of the research is backed up by the company producing the product. So do not take any without proper consultation.

Using products beyond expiry

Always make it a point to keep checking the expiry dates of products you use. Some people continue to use beyond shelf life because some products are only for topical application. The expiry date is in place because certain ingredients lose their tendency to heal and purpose beyond certain period of time. It is always good to use products only within the usage time mentioned on the packaging.

So I hope you’ve made a checklist and ticked if your doing any of these. If at least there is one please try not to. Happy skincare.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva andNoor Anand Chawla in collaboration with RRE Studios and ShowCase Events.’–

December 10, 2021December 10, 2021

Must know benefits of azelaic acid

Azelaic acid is naturally derived from barley , wheat and rye. It is widely know for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it the best choice when it comes to treating acne and rosacea.

Azelaic acid clears out the bacteria from the pores present in skin that cause acne and also helps in preventing future outbreak.

Azelaic acid can be applied topically to skin in the for of cream, gel and foam. But all the forms have the same way of application in terms of the products that are used in skincare routine.

Azelaic acid is getting increasingly popular and is most often the ingredient that is looked down upon and under the radar.

When the ingredient is suggested through prescriptions from dermatologists it would be about 15-20% concentration. But the ones that are sold over the counters are usually lesser in concentration. But usually it is safer to incorporate upto a concentration os 20%.

Azelaic acid takes a lot of time to show results so patience is needed when using this ingredient. The variants that are given through prescriptions take about a month or two and those available over the counter take up to three to four months to visibly see an improvement. The difference in the vast time gap is the strength of concentration that is present in the product.

Azelaic acid acts as an anti-inflammmatory for the acne and as an anti-pigment because of is ability to block tyrosinase. Azelaic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor since it blocks melanin production.

Who can use?

Azelaic acid is great for people who have combination and oily skin. While those with sensitive skin might experience a mild redness when applying the product.

It is a safer ingredient that can be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women. But it is always advised to consult your doctor before incorporating a new ingredient into skincare routine especially if you are pregnant or a breastfeeding mother.

BENEFITS:

ACNE TREATMENT:

Azelaic acid has been best known for treating acne for a longer period of time. It is an antibacterial as it fights to kill the acne causing bacteria. It is not like the other acid counterparts which fight acne , its an OTC that is quite strong to treat the condition.

It works by reducing the free fatty acid content deep down the pores in your skin. This makes the environment less adaptable to the bacteria. It also disrupts the normal cell functioning of bacteria thereby fighting from within.

GOOD EXFOLIANT

It works to increase the turnover rate of dead skin cells so that the pores are clean. So when you have clean and clearer pores it prevents future formation of acne.

LIGHTENS SCARS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION

Melanin in reduced in hyperactive areas which are the dark spots on skin when azelaic acid is applied.Since it is a tyrosinase inhibitor, it reduces melanin production. Simply put, it doesn’t let tyrosinase do its work and henace melanin production is stalled. Melasma and acne scars are lightened to a greater extent when azelaic acid is used.

ANTI INFLAMMATORY

Azelaic acid reduces pain,redness and swelling due to rosacea and acne. It calms the breaksouts and further inhibits the formation of new acne. For skin that has rosacea it helps to alleviate the redness and soothes the inflammation. Azelaic acid beeing mild than the other counterparts used for treating acne, it exfoliates and clears out the pores in a gentle way

How to use?

Can be used in forms of gel or a cream.

The sequence in usage would be,

Cleanse
Exfoliate
Tone
Azelaic acid
Moisturizer
SUnscreen

Use it initially as a spot treatment. Always begin with a patch test. Can be done on forehead when skin is thickest. Gradually increase areas of application to pigmentation prone area or even entire face. Massage for two minutes to get the product absorbed by skin.

Follow up with moisturizer to keep skin hydrated. The azelaic acid must be dried up before appying moisturizer else it will not absorb into skin and do its job.

Azelaic acid makes skin susceptible to sunburn and UV radiation effects. Since azelaic acid works to inhibit melanin production the skin is delicate and can be damaged easily. So always make sure to use sunscreen when using azelaic acid.

PRODUCTS IN INDIA

The Derma Co. 10% Azelaic Acid Face Serum For Uneven Skin Tone & Dark Spots

The formulation has ginger root oil along with bergamot oil along with azelaic acid. It is suited for all skin types and comes in a convenient spray bottle in a cream consistency.

Price: 449
Quantity: 30ml

Click here to buy:

November 25, 2021November 25, 2021

Must know benefits of Arbutin

Arbutin is the newest name that rides the bandwagon of active skincare ingredients. Extracted from plants like pear,blueberry and cranberry , the ingredient is mainly used in skin brightening. Treating blemishes and uneven pigmentation are major benefits of using alpha arbutin.

Dermatologists trust this ingredient much more than other active ingredients to treat blemishes than other active ingredient counterparts.

Termed as one of the safest ingredients to provide skin brightening and helping in fading out scars left by acne and breakouts.

It is termed safe than the counterpart hydro uinone but has the same skin brightening benfits without the process of bleaching that could be harmful. Hydroquinone is banned in Europe and Australia which paved way for arbutin to replace it in the shelves.

Arbutin works to suppress the enzymes which produce melanin thereby reducing pigmentation. A slow down happens in process by which the UV rays cause pigmentation. As a result arbutin works to prevent as well as treat pigmentation.

Post blemish redness, dark spots and age spots denote pigmentation in various stages. Arbutin works to treating thse conditions by reducing the redness and making the skin tone even. People with sensitive skin can best chose arbutin over harsher counterparts like retinol and lactic acid.
BENEFITS:

Treatment of hyperpigmentation

A cosmeceutical that helps to fade out scars, age spots and melasma.Arbutin also works to prevent future freckles and hyperpigmentation even after sunburn.

Arbutin stops any extra production of melanin. Melanin production involves a chain of processes. Simply put arbutin stops the chain to treat pigmentation.

BRIGHTER SKIN

Arbutin aids in making skin tone even and to brighten the skin. This makes skin glow and appear healthy. It is a skincare beauty blender that is naturally blending the skin instead of using a foundation.

SAFER AND POWERFUL ALTERNATIVE TO HYDROQUINONE

Traditionally hydroquinone has been used in treating melasma and pigementation because of its ability to clear out scars. But the synthetic hydroquinone thats been used in products is aggressive in nature causing skin damage if not used in proper application methods. Results show that improper usage can lead to blue or grey patches on skin, When compared arbutin is much safer for topical application and it also being a natural derivative makes it a better choice. Arbutin has been proven to work even on the toughest pigmentation conditions and extreme cases of melasma.

What should you keep in mind?

One thing to keep in mind is that alpha arbutin is safe when used in 2% concentration and beta arbutin concentration can go upto 7% for safer limits.

Arbutin is great on all skin types and tones.But few suggestions to improvise the application benefits would be to include vitamin C alongside to boost the brightening benefits or to exfoliate using an AHA and then follow up with arbutin.

Do not use beyond three months and the improvements take at least 1-2 months to show up.
Patience and perseverence are two most important things to keep in mind when treating skin conditions. No product is magical to just make your skincare concerns disappear in a day. Make sure to give time for the product to work and to trust your body.

How to use?

Can be used in forms of gel,cream or a serum.

The sequence in usage would be,

Cleanse
Exfoliate
Tone
Arbutin
Moisturizer
Sunscreen

Follwo up with moisturizer to keep skin hydrated. The arbutin must be dried up before appying moisturizer else it will not absorb into skin and do its job.

Arbutin makes skin susceptible to sunburn and UV radiation effects. Since arbutin works to inhibit melanin production the skin is delicate and can be damaged easily. So always make sure to use sunscreen when using arbutin.

ARBUTIN PRODUCTS

Minimalist 2% Alpha Arbutin Face Serum for Pigmentation, Dark Spots & Tan Removal with HA

The formulation is made up of 2% alpha arbutin with a combination of hyaluronic acid. Proven to be nine times more effective than beta arbutin. Can be used daily. Promises even tone in 5 weeks.
Suited for both AM and PM routine . To be followed up with sunscreen.

Price: 549 quantity : 30ml
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The Derma Co. 2% Alpha Arbutin Face Serum For Dark Spots & Uneven Skin Tone

The formulation contains 2% alpha arbutin in combination with hyaluronic acid and tartaric acid to reduce pigmentation and stop melanin production. Hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant and also boosts collagen productions whereas tartaric acid on the other hand is naturally derived from grapes to work on lessening pigmentation and spots.

Suited for both AM and PM routine . To be followed up with sunscreen.

Price: 449 quantity : 30 ml
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Dot & Key Alpha Arbutin + Azelaic Biphasic Serum Radiance Concentrate

It is india’s first two phase serum that combines oil and water. Natural oils are infused with active ingredients to provide skin brightening benefits.
Formulation has alpha arbutin in combination with azelaic acid , peony flower rich in antioxidants, mulberry and rosehip oil.

Advised to be used in AM and PM routine.

Price: 491 quantity: 20ml

November 18, 2021November 18, 2021

Must know benefits of retinol or retinoid

Retinol or retinoid is a derivative of vitamin A. Known for its ability to boost cell turnover, it is one of the widely used ingredients incorporated into daily skincare routine.

Whether you want to maintain a fine glow or shoo away the fine lines and signs of ageing, this is one ingredient that you should be reaching to. Though it is not very tough to source it as its readily availble over the counters in departmental stores, drug stores or over ecommerce websites, it is the ingredient that s often misinterpreted or misused.

One most important factor to take care is to use it during the nights as sunlight decreases the efficacy of the product. And also that using it makes skin more sensitive to UV rays, it is advised to use sunscreen in the day and retinols at night.

HOW TO START?

Thirties are termed to be banner age for retinoids however the mid twenties would be much better to start off with. It has to be incorporated slowly into your routine, say about twice in a week and peas sized amount to start off. In earlier stages make sure to wash it off post two hours.

The side effects are mild with redness, itching, dryness and sensitivityduring the course of time the normal skin gets adjusted to the ingredient. However the sensitive skin reacts triggering acne and rosacea so people with highly sensitive skin can stay away from using this and have many alternatives to choose from to incorporate into their routine.

When you’re getting started you can wash face, wait for sometime for the natural facial oils to set in and then apply retinols. Or in other ways you can incorporate the sandwich technique wherein you can dab the moisturizer, apply retinol and then seal it with moisturizer again.

Start with a lower strength like 0.75% and then proceed to 1%. While the retinols that are available over the counter are for fighting the signs of ageing, The ones that are given in prescription are for treating acne.

When you are using retinold it is best prefered to use cream base under the eyes and for the face use a serum followed by moisturizer.

CONDITIONS BEST TREATED BY RETINOLS

acne
fine lines
wrinkles
age (sun) spots, freckles, and other signs of sun damage, sometimes called photoaging
uneven skin texture
melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation
large pores caused by acne, oily skin, or collagen loss

WHY IS IT BENEFICIAL?

Unlike other anti-ageing products , this ingredient does not just stop with removing dead skin cells, they also penetrate deep into the epidermis.

They help in neutralising the free radicals and help in boosting production collagen and elastin. This creates a plumping effect and helps in reducing fine lines, dark spots and wrinkles. Since it also helps in exfoliating the skin the texture is improved to a greater extent.

It is very helpful in clearing out acne, it unclogs pore by forming comedolytic agents to prevent forming blemishes and comedones. If acne is very severe the retinol is prescribed along with antibitoics. It doesn not show results instantaneously, it takes upto six weeks minimum to show visible results.

PRODUCTS IN INDIA

Olay Night Cream: Regenerist Retinol 24 Moisturiser

The cream promises 24 hour potency and hydration on skin. Suited for dry, normal and combination skin. Proven to penetrate 10 layers deep. The formulation works in combination with niacinamide.

The same formulation is available as a serum as well. But it is best to use either one of them and not together since they are of high potency.

The reason the formulation includes niacinamide is to reduce the redness upon using the product.

Price: 379 Quantity: 8gms
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Dot & Key Glow Night Reset Retinol + Ceramide Cream

The formulation includes provitamin B5 and vitamin E along with hyaluronic acid to improve hydration. The other ingredients include hibiscus because of presence of AHAs, seabuck thorn oil, evening primrose oil which help in acne prevention and keeping skin moisturized.

Price: 531 Quantity: 25ml
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The Derma Co. 0.3% Retinol Face Serum For Spotless Skin

The formulation works in combination with vitamin C to fight signs of ageing and alter the aged cells. Also contains glycerine to act as a humectant. Advised to do a patch test before application , especially people with sensitive skin.

Price: 719 quantity: 30ml
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Nykaa SKINRX 2% Advanced Retinol Anti-Aging Face Serum for Wrinkles & Fine Lines

The formulation consists of 2% retinol , along with 2% lactic acid that stimulates collagen renewal and 1% Australian caviar lime extract for it being a rich source of AHA and gentle exfoliant.

Suited for normal, dry , combination and oily skin but no mention about sensitive skin.

Price: 899 quantity: 30ml
Click here to buy:

November 18, 2021November 18, 2021

Must know benefits of Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid, I know its difficult to pronounce but even more difficult to get the right spelling. A skincare ingredient that has recently found its place in almost all serums, sheet mask and moisturizer. And the reason why is that it can be your mandatory addition to daily skincare routine. It is a naturally occurring molecule in your skin that gives you the dewy look.

It helps to bind the water to skin giving it all the more a glowing look. More than retaining moisture it also has various other benefits.

What is hyaluronic acid?

It is a naturally occurring sugar molecule on skin that helps in binding of collagen and water and making the skin look plump and dewy. It helps boost hydration in skin to make it look glowing. The acid molecule binds collagen to one end and water to the other thereby adding to the plump factor of the skin.

What is the need to include hyaluronic acid?

As humans we age so does our skin and in the process there is a decrease in collagen and hyaluronic acid, this makes the skin look dehydrated. Harsh weather conditions like winter, existing skincare problems may cause tiny breaks through which water could leak. So there is a need to include a humectant in skincare regimen to attract the water molecules. Some of which are hyaluronic acid, glycerine and oatmeal.

Hyaluronic acid gets easily absorbed to skin and thereby attracts a lot of water keeping the skin hydrated. This is the reason it finds itself as one of the major ingredients in skincare products.

Skin types

Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that suits all skin types. It does not cause acne, eczema or rosacea.

People with dry and mature skin and those with ageing symptoms might need more of hyaluronic acid. This is because as we age we lose the ability to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid and it is necessary to be supplemented.

On the other hand, since the name contains the term ‘acid’ people with sensitive skin might fear to incorporate products with this ingredient. That is not the case because it is a naturally occurring molecule in skin that is produced by our very own bodies and can be safely used on sensitive skin.

BENEFITS

A molecule of HA can bind about 100 molecules of water of its own size , come to think of the goodness that it has to offer the skin.

TEWL or trans epidermal water loss is a very commonly known term in the skincare industry that describes water loss on the skin. It is a term that denotes the amount of water evaporated from skin.

A product that prevents TEWL actually helps in keeping your skin hydrated. HA does this by slowing down the rate of evaporation of water from the skin.

HA also apart from being a humectant helps in faster healing of wounds.

The other benefits that HA offers are

Anti-ageing
Reducing redness
Moisturizing
Treat acne
Treat eczema
Increasing the elasticity of skin

It also helps in treatinf dry eye and reduced tear production conditions since it is known for its hydration properties.

It has been proven that the naturally produced hyaluronic acid in body helps in lubricating the bone joints.

PRODUCTS WITH HYALURONIC ACID DOING WELL IN INDIAN MARKETS

Loreal paris revitalift 1.5% hyaluronic acid serum

The serum is non-sticky and promises 21% increased plumpness, 42% skin radiance and intense hydration.

Can be used in both AM and PM routine.

Price: 474 Quantity: 15 ml

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Ponds Super Light Gel Oil Free Moisturiser With Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin E

This is probably the cheapest and one of the effective options to incorporating hyaluronic acid to skincare routine. I’ve personally used this, its non-sticky and does help in retaining moisture , doesn’t give an oily appearance. I loved the fragrance and the gel consistency. Although I felt the packaging can be much more improved.

Price : 149 Quantity: 73gm

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Nykaa SKINRX 2% Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum For Intense Hydration, Plump Skin with 1% Vitamin B5

The formulation has 2% hyaluronic acid, 1% vitamin B5 and 1% marine algae extract.

Can be incorporated in both AM and PM routine. Suits all skin types.

Price: 799 Quantity: 25ml

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Clinique Moisture Surge 100h Auto-replenishing Hydrator(15ml)

The product promises hydration that penetrates 10 layers deep and that lasts for 100 hours. He formulation has hyaluronic acid, activated aloe water and aloe bio ferment.

By far the costliest range I’ve seen in products containing hyaluronic acid.

Price: 950 quantity: 15ml

Click here to buy:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Mini(15gm)

The formulation incorporates a patented technology that includes prebiotics to boost hydration in combination with hyaluronic acid.

The incorporation of prebiotics helps in 50% boost in HA production.

Price: 370 quantity: 15gm

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October 28, 2021October 28, 2021

Must know Benefits of Kojic acid

You have a mountain of beauty brands to choose from. These are days where we not only want to choose the brand but also make a choice of ingredients that will work on your skin. The term active ingredient has been making rounds recently and you see a line up of products getting released be it whatever brand there is an active ingredient addressing a skin concern.

When you decide to incorporate products into skincare routine the most important step is to understand your skin and to choose products which are made of ingredients that would suit your skin. Just because there is an ‘XYZ ‘ brand advertising their vitamin C range promises clear skin in 10 days, it doesn’t mean the result is guaranteed, the range of products will work for you, they will not give you side effects. So take time in learning about the ingredients, the problems they can address or the benefits they have for your skin and then choose a brand.

Or if you have complicated skin conditions it is best suggested to consult a dermatologist and proceed with what they describe. Whatever you see on social media is not going to work for every person who purchases the product.

As a skincare blogger here and an influencer on Instagram, when I promote products I leave an honest review after 2-3 weeks of usage of products. However I also leave a disclaimer that what works for me might not work for everyone else as every skin is unique.

The second ingredient that I want to talk about is kojic acid. The first time I hear the term I was like , “Kojic what?”. Using acid on skin sounded to make me terrified.Though I have been someone who has been using lemon peels on skin for the vitamin C absorption, I do it with water sprinkled and patted on skin to not make the acid act directly on skin.

I decided to read through what kojic acid is and what benefits of kojic acid would my skin agree to and who can use it. I tried some and there you also have my reviews on them later on this post.

What is Kojic acid?

Mushrooms are the basic sources of kojic acid or simply put it is a natural by-product derived from various fungi and fermentation of foods like soy sauce and rice wine. Benefits of Kojic acid is it’s mainly used to lighten the skin pigment and helps treat discolouration and reduce dark spots.

How does it work?

Melanin is responsible for providing colour to eyes , hair and skin. An amino acid called tyrosine helps in melanin production. Kojic acid works to block tyrosine production which in turn stops melanin production leaving the skin light.

BENEFITS OF USING KOJIC ACID

ANTI -AGEING

Kojic acid lessens dark spots and helps lighten the skin which in turn gives anti-ageing benefits when used on skin.

TREATS MELASMA

Pregnancy can induce melasma which is pigmentation that causes your complexion to be uneven. Kojic acid works to neutralize the pigmentation there by giving you lighter skin.

SCAR DISAPPEARANCE

Usage of kojic acid can lessen the presence of scar by making it appear light. Though the thick tissue might be there, it’s presence can be greatly reduced by lessening it.

ANTI-FUNGAL BENEFIT

Being derived from various fungi, kojic acid provides anti-fungal protection from diseases like athlete’s foot and yeast infection.

SIDE EFFECTS:

When used over a long period of time kojic acid can make your skin susceptible to sun. Rashes, itches and irritation are commonly observed side effects. So always make sure to incorporate a sunscreen when using kojic acid in skincare routine.

PRODUCTS IN INDIA

The derma . co kojic acid cream for pigmentation

This cream works with a formulation that incorporates 2% of kojic acid in combination of vitamin C in reducing dark spots and improving pigmentation. I really liked the pump method to get the cream out which is light on application. I do it post cleansing in both AM and PM routine.

Price : 449 quantity: 30 gm

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Kozicare skin lightening serum

This is a serum that is formulated with kojic acid along with aloe vera, arbutin, glutathione,glycerine. Compared to a cream base this is lighter because of its serum consistency and requires application through a dropper.

The serum does not leave a oily residue post application.

Price : 399 quantity : 30 ml

Click here to buy

Make sure to do a patch test before trying out any new product on your skin.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with VoxBox and Journery Matters.