Don’t Know How To Take Care Of Your Skin In Winter? This Is What You Should Do

Winter is the season of joy, celebrations, and happiness, and we love how cozy and comfortable warm blankets and sweaters make us. But, all of this comes with a lot of problems. Dry and flaky skin, chapped lips, irritation, redness all over the body, and so on are just to name a few. This happens due to the drop in temperature and humidity, and this makes it all the more important to take care of your skin.

If you are one of those who use indoor heaters, then it’s about time you break that habit. This ‘winter comfort’ is doing you more harm than good as it sucks out your skin’s moisture and leaves it dry.

The skincare products that you have been using in the summer season don’t work at all during winters, so it is important to stock up on winter essentials and follow a proper routine to save yourself from the incoming winter havoc.

Here is how you can keep your skin moisturized from head to toe:

Drink lots of water

When the winds are cold outside, we often forget to keep ourselves hydrated. The low humidity strips off the moisture from our skin, and this results in dry and dehydrated skin. No matter how much moisturizer you slather, only water knows how to fix your dehydrated skin. So, always keep a reusable water bottle with you. Instead of drinking lots of water at once, keep sipping it throughout the day to retain the moisture. You can indulge in hot, warm teas to ensure hydration.

The feeling of hot adrak chai in winters just feels different!!

Avoid hot showers

Noooo, why would you say that???

Believe me, it hurts putting this but we can’t avoid the truth, can we? 

We all have been victims of enjoying a hot, long bath or a shower when it’s cold and chilly outside. No matter how relaxing it is, it slowly takes away the natural moisture and leaves your skin drier than before. Have a shower with lukewarm water and always moisturize immediately to lock in the moisture.

Lather your moisturizer

Moisturize after a shower, moisturize before sleeping, moisturize during the day, to sum up..just MOISTURIZE!! 

Moisturizing is one of the most important things to do in winter to take care of your skin. It keeps your skin hydrated and ensures that there’s no ripping off of natural oils. 

Look out for ingredients like Shea Butter, Hyaluronic Acid, Coconut Oil, Cucumbers, Olive Oil, Cocoa Butter, Ceramides, and Jojoba Oil in moisturizing creams.

Switch your products

It’s time to switch!!!

You cannot use the same products that you’ve been using in the summer months for winter. Switch your lighter moisturization to a rich cream-based moisturization and Coconut Oil to Almond Oil for nice and healthy hair.

Winter care essentials

It’s important to stock up essential skincare products for winter like a gentle cleanser, moisturizing body lotion, body butter, almond oil or castor oil for healthy hair, nourishing face cream, lip balm, and hand and foot cream to protect your skin from getting dry.

Do a simple skincare routine

It’s not necessary to follow a 12-step elaborated skincare routine in winter. A simple yet effective skincare routine will do equal wonders to your skin because efficacy is what matters the most.

Just make sure you have a cleanser, exfoliator, toner, serum, face mask, under-eye cream, moisturizer, lip balm, and SPF from good and reputed brands and that you incorporate them into your skincare routine. Apply a lot of moisturizers before you go to sleep.

Don’t forget to exfoliate

Be it summer or winter, exfoliation is a part of all skincare routines. No matter what your skin type – dry, dehydrated, oily, combination, and normal, everyone needs to exfoliate. It removes all the dead skin cells away and allows your skincare products like serums and moisturizer to seep right through into it.

Protect your Under Eye Area and Lips

The area under your eyes and on the lips is the thinnest and it becomes necessary to keep them nourished throughout the year. 

Your lips become chapped during the dry winter season, and the application of lip balm keeps them nourished and hydrated. Don’t forget to apply under eye cream every night before sleeping to minimize dark circles, fatigue, signs of stress, and aging.

Sunscreen?? Yes, Sunscreen!

The second you read this point, a thought would have occurred in your mind, “Sunscreen in summers is a necessity, but why do I need to apply it during winters?”

The main role of sunscreen is to protect the skin from harmful UV rays from the sun. It doesn’t mean that it isn’t harmful in winters. So, always use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more to shield your skin against radiation, free radicals, and premature aging.

Listen to your skin!!!

Winter might be termed as your skin’s enemy, but that doesn’t mean you’ll let it win against your skin! Follow the above-mentioned tips and incorporate a healthy diet full of green leafy vegetables and fruits rich in Vitamin C, A, E, and Omega 3 to keep your skin glowy and hydrated from within. 

Just like our health, our skin needs to be taken care of too

While we all celebrated the festive season with full enthusiasm, we ignored the silent cries of the environment. On top of that, the burning of crackers despite the ban, emission from vehicles, crop burning, and extreme changes in the weather further aggravated its condition which led to extreme pollution. Apart from health issues, pollution is equally responsible for causing harm to your skin. It makes your skin look damaged, old and dull. So, whether you stay indoors or outdoors, you just can’t escape the wrath of pollution. 

Huh? My skin isn’t safe inside my house too? 

Your skin is still prone to pollution inside your house as the air may include dirt, dust, and gases from cooking. This slowly causes damage to your skin and health. Long-term exposure to outdoor pollution makes the tiny particles infiltrate the epidermis making your skin look dry. This depletes collagen production and impairs the skin barrier. 

Let us understand in-depth how environmental pollution affects the premature aging of the skin.

Environmental Pollution and Premature Skin Aging

Harmful UV rays of the sun and long-term exposure to pollution damage the skin’s surface, lead to premature aging , and sometimes increase the risk of skin cancer. Both visible and invisible pollutants like cigarette smoke, smog, dust, dirt, fumes, car exhaust, etc, lead to the early formation of wrinkles and dark spots. These pollutants don’t sit on the layer of your skin, rather they go deep into the skin’s surface. This causes dehydration, depletion of collagen, loss of elasticity, and inflammation. 

The most important thing to worry about is that they increase the levels of free radicals. Wondering what that means? Free radicals are atoms that attack the skin cells. They disturb collagen production, thin the skin, damage the DNA, and increase the skin’s elasticity. These free radicals create oxidative stress to the skin and inflame it. As a result, our immune response gets activated. It further accelerates the signs of aging and the visible signs that can be seen near our eyes and lips.

Some ways to protect your skin from the adverse effects of pollution

Now we know that there’s no way of escaping the wrath of pollution. So, it is important to take care of your skin by following some simple steps mentioned below:

Double Cleansing  

With harmful pollutants in the air and hours of build-up of makeup and sunscreen, our skin tends to get dry over the day. You need to get rid of the impurities by cleansing your face daily. Start with an oil-based cleanser as it removes all the makeup residue, followed by a water-based cleanser that effectively removes all the dirt, sebum, and pollutants from the air.

Exfoliation

No matter how many times we tell the importance of exfoliation, it will never be enough. Exfoliation removes all the dead skin cells, dirt, and impurities from deep within the skin’s surface. Exfoliating once or twice a week protects the skin barrier from harmful pollutants present in the air. 

Load up on Antioxidant-rich Serums

Applying a serum rich in antioxidants enables your skin to fight free radicals and protect from environmental triggers. Use an antioxidant-rich serum during the day that will protect your skin from pollutants in the daytime, and a night serum to boost the repair of skin cells. Look for serums that contain Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and anti-pollution ingredients that improve skin’s natural defense, protect the barrier, and brighten complexion over time.

Mask it Up!

Face masks having ingredients like Activated Charcoal, Kaolin Clay, and Aloe Vera have a tremendous effect on the skin damaged by the toxic pollutants. Face masks remove all the dirt clogged between the pores and protect the skin from pollution.

Eye Care

As we know, the damage by pollution causes your skin to age prematurely so, the first visible sign starts appearing under our eyes. Excessive exposure to the sun and heavy pollution lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. To deal with this, you need to incorporate an under-eye cream or serum at night. This will make all those signs of stress and aging disappear so your eyes look lively and plumper in the morning.

Moisturize

Harmful pollutants and poor air quality make your skin dry and damaged, that is why it becomes important to moisturize your skin every day.  Ingredients like Cocoa Butter and Olive Oil provide deep nourishment and prevent the skin from getting cracked and damaged. Applying a moisturizer calms the effects of environmental stress and locks in moisture into the skin.

Shield with Sunscreen

Applying sunscreen is probably one of the best ways to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Regular application of sunscreen reduces your chances of getting skin cancer and protects your skin from premature aging.

You can’t achieve protection from the pollution just by following a skincare routine….

Apart from following an effective skincare routine, you need to make some important healthy lifestyle changes. This needs to be done to limit your skin’s exposure to both indoor and outdoor pollution.

How can you do it? Let’s see-

Keep yourself hydrated

It is important to keep yourself hydrated every day to flush out all the toxins from your body. You can also prepare detox water at home to give your body the required antioxidants.

Have an antioxidant-rich diet

Antioxidants are the most effective in fighting off free radicals and they keep the body healthy from within. Incorporating food items rich in Vitamin C, Zinc, Vitamin E, and Beta-Carotene in your diet will make your skin and body ready to fight against pollution.

Prevent Indoor Pollution

One of the easiest ways to prevent pollution is to ventilate your house. Practice opening the windows and doors from time to time to let the fresh air enter in. Install chimneys in the kitchen and exhaust fans in the bathroom to remove contaminants in the air. You can also install air purifiers at your home or at your work place as they filter air and make the air clean.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking already has millions of cons, and adding another disadvantage gives it all the more reasons to avoid it. Smoking cigarettes leads to premature aging of the skin and develops fine lines around your mouth. So, it’s better to avoid it at all costs!

Taking the right measures

No matter where you live, there is no escaping pollution. Luckily, following a proper anti-pollution skincare routine with a healthy lifestyle will help prepare your skin against toxic pollutants in the air and premature aging.

Here’s to better skin and well-being!

Want to have glowing skin throughout the day? Stop whatever you’re doing and let me tell you how!

“I already follow a night skincare routine, why do I need to take care of my skin in the morning when I’m already in a rush for work?”

This thought may have occurred to you every time you saw a post titled “Morning Skin Care Routine,” but it is time to take action. Following a proper night skincare routine is important, but so is taking care of your skin in the morning. Your skin, like a superhero, must be prepared to fight dirt, pollution, makeup, bacteria, and UV rays throughout the day. It doesn’t sound exciting to leave it unprepared like that, does it?

Aside from protecting your skin, a morning skincare routine can help you keep your youthful skin in the long run.

“I don’t have time to follow a ten-step regimen, and I don’t have the necessary products.”

Let’s be honest, ain’t nobody got time for that! However, if you follow the steps outlined below, you will be welcoming healthy and glowing skin in no time:

Step 1: Keep Calm and Drink Water

You might have assumed that the first step in the morning skincare routine would be to apply a product right away, but you are wrong! The first and most important step is to drink water immediately after getting out of bed.

Many of us have the desire to drink a cup of coffee or tea as soon as we open our eyes, but it’s time to break that habit and drink a glass of water to hydrate our skin and get our day started right.

Step 2: Cleansing

The next step is to cleanse your skin with a face wash which is mild on the skin with lukewarm water. Washing your face with hot or cold water will cause your skin to dry out. Cleansing your face helps you get rid of all the bacteria and dirt accumulated overnight. Pat your wet skin with a cloth and don’t rub it with a towel to avoid irritation and redness. You don’t want to get this step wrong.

If you have dry skin, then do not, I repeat, do not skip this step.

Step 3: It’s Time to Tone It

“I don’t like toners, they’re alcohol-based and irritate my skin”

Toners no longer contain high concentrations of alcohol, which can irritate and sting the skin. Toners are now known for their hydrating and soothing properties, which tighten and control excess oil. It is critical to keep the skin’s natural moisture after cleansing. In order to fulfill that, use an alcohol-free toner which will leave your skin refreshed and glowing. After applying it, dab it across your face and allow it to absorb naturally.

Step 4: Apply a Serum

Serums contain highly concentrated amounts of active ingredients, allowing them to target specific skin issues. They are thicker than toners but lighter than moisturizers and are available in both oil and water-based formulations. This step is entirely dependent on how you want your skin to look or let me rephrase it, use a serum that fits your #skingoals. 

Step 5: Take care of the eyes

“How are eyes included in the morning skincare routine? Aren’t they supposed to be taken care of at night?”

The skin under our eyes is the thinnest and needs utmost care at all times. You just cannot use any product for this area. Including an eye cream in your morning skincare routine will help you get rid of puffy eyes, wrinkles, and dry skin. It will make you look more awake and allow you to apply makeup more easily.

Step 6: Moisturize

Every Girl: “I am a completely different person when I’m moisturized”

There is no such thing as “extreme hydration of the skin” and no matter what your skin type is- oily, dry, sensitive, normal, you must always moisturize. Moisturizer helps to entrap the natural ingredients and ensures the effectiveness of the products used in the above-mentioned steps.

Use a moisturizing cream that locks in moisture for up to 24 hours and keeps your skin ultra-hydrated and illuminated at all times. For perfectly balanced skin, gently massage your face.

Step 7: Sunscreen

Don’t let the sun ruin your morning skincare routine if you have followed the steps mentioned above religiously. Exposure to the sun causes premature aging of the skin which we do not want. To protect your skin from harmful UV A and B rays, apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it throughout the day for better results.

Step 8: Don’t neglect the Lips

Our lips tend to become dry after a good night’s sleep and no, licking your lips will not fix that! So, in order to moisturize them, apply a good lip balm which has SPF. This will hydrate your lips and make you ready for the day. Reapply at regular intervals.

 The Final Verdict:

The morning skincare routine provided by us is super quick and easy. Be aware and let your friends know about it too. Follow the steps and flaunt that gorgeous skin of yours. If you have any queries, feel free to drop by.

Here are some recommended products you can include in your morning skincare routine:

• Matra Vitamin C Face Wash which deep cleanses, brightens skin and gives your face a radiant glow.

• Matra Vitamin C Face Toner is an alcohol free toner which tones the skin and tightens pores.

• Matra offers a wide variety of serums for your skin goals.
• Matra Vitamin C Moisturizing Cream which makes your skin soft, supple and youthful.

All about Probiotics In Skincare – What Are They And How Do They Work?

Are you a strong believer that yogurt a day keeps the gut issues at bay?

You’ll be astounded to learn that the same microbe-friendly concept is transforming the skincare industry. Hundreds of billions of microorganisms live in our bodies, outnumbering even human cells. And a large number of these diverse bacteria ecosystems (roughly 1,000 species) remain on our skin.

Many studies indicate that some of these microbes promote skin health extensively. They help to strengthen our skin’s natural defense sensitized against bacteria while still balancing the pH levels. Isn’t it intriguing?

So, I’ve had enough of waiting! Are you one of them? It’s past time to add helpful bacteria to our skincare and cosmetics arsenal. From masks and mists to serums and cleansers, there’s a lot to choose from. It will also ensure that inflammation is reduced, the skin’s barrier is strengthened, and acne is reduced. Doesn’t it sound intriguing? Incorporating probiotics into your ever-expanding skin regimen is well worth it. With the jam-packed stressful and hectic lifestyles that we lead, opting for more than 1 method to get that flawless sheen is the only option we are left with. So if you crave that magical skin, prepare your skin to become friends with some good bacteria. Before that, here’s all you need to know…

First things first, what are probiotics?

Probiotics = good bacteria?

Probiotics are microorganisms that are similar to the naturally occurring bacteria present in our gut.  They aid in a variety of health functions, including digestion, serotonin production, and infection resistance. The more healthy bacteria we have in our bodies, the less likely the poor bacteria can take over and cause serious problems. The dictionary definition of probiotics is ‘micro-organisms that can benefit their host’, but I just like to call them ‘good bacteria!’

What is Probiotic skincare?

Probiotics work similarly for our skin as they do for the digestive system. Like I mentioned before, they aid in balancing the pH level, deal with bacteria that are a reason for the inflammation, and permit healthy bacteria to grow on the skin. It gives that natural, long-lasting glow, and appeal. In addition to that, probiotic beauty products also help in combating flare-ups, acne, breakouts, unknown spots on the face, as well as dullness. 

And what’s the deal with prebiotics and postbiotics?

To explain in simple words, Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that support the vitality of the good bacteria in our body. They can be found in things like-

• Whole grains
• Bananas
• Greens
• Onions
• Garlic
• Soybeans

Since we don’t digest them, they go straight to our intestines, where they’re devoured by beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics are used in many topical probiotic products. They encourage the growth of beneficial bugs that live on our skin. Probiotics contain good bacteria, while prebiotics contains the nutrients that the good bacteria need to survive and reproduce. These postbiotics — enzymes, organic acids, polysaccharides, peptides — are super powerful molecules that further reinforce our skin’s healthy barrier.

The probiotic benefits for each skin type

We all are aware that there are millions of options and choices available in the market today when it comes to skincare products. Whether vegan or Ayurvedic products, we have a plethora of options that only leave us confused and unsure of which product will be best for our skin type. It must be clear to you by now that while the debate around rose quartz and vegan products continues, one thing that’s going to take over the beauty industry this year is all about probiotic skincare.  

Stabilizing the microbiome helps:

• Protect the skin’s surface from environmental aggressors.
• Improve your skin’s ability to become and stay hydrated.
• Reduce the factors that cause reddened, sensitized skin.
• Improve the appearance of symptoms of dryness, such as a close, unpleasant feeling.
• Restore the skin’s pH balance to a stable level.

There are a variety of probiotic-infused beauty products on the market today, ranging from face mists and cleansers to serums and moisturizers. Women are, without a doubt, intelligent creatures. But here we are, to add a little more to your information bank. Only so you can figure out how probiotics can help you with your particular skin issues.

Probiotic skincare for sensitive skin

Probiotics have the unusual ability to regenerate and strengthen the skin’s barrier. Sensitive skin can take a long time to heal after being damaged. Making probiotics an unavoidable part of your skincare routine, on the other hand, will hasten the method.

If you want stronger, more healthy skin, a probiotic-powered skincare routine might be worth investing in.

Probiotic skincare for polluted skin

Pollution and other free radicals can hasten the aging process and deplete the skin’s natural radiance. Probiotics can help the skin’s natural defenses against these aggressors when applied topically. They allow you to quickly transition from polluted to beautiful skin!

By restoring balance and stimulating the skin’s natural defense mechanism, probiotics ensure that the skin is ready to battle the elements on a regular basis. To put it another way, a dose of topical probiotics will help to relax the immune response that pollutants and stress cause, preventing damage to collagen, elastin, and healthy cells. Consider them a barrier against environmental aggressors and anything else we slather on our skin on a regular basis.

Probiotic skincare for acne

Acne is dreadful! Tbh, I petrify them. So I keep a check on almost everything to avoid them, but they still don’t leave me alone. If you are like me then incorporating probiotics skincare for acne can be our thing for sure. Research and studies have found that products containing lactobacillus (a type of bacteria usually found in yogurt) are effective in treating acne. I feel it is something that will entirely change the way we tackle the common skin problem in the future.

I think that acne won’t be treated with antibiotics in a coming couple of years but with probiotics! Feeding the good guys and starving the bad trouble makers (in this case, the acne bacteria) makes so much sense to me..haha.

By calming and balancing the skin’s inflammatory response, probiotics can also help to soothe acne-prone skin from within. The key to dealing with acne skin is to treat it smoothly with love and with kind formulations that don’t strip away all the skin’s natural oils.

For anti-aging benefits

Probiotics-powered skincare products are very effective in minimizing the appearance of age spots, fine lines, and other signs of aging by repairing stressed skin and stimulating skin renewal leaving your skin youthful, radiant, and glowy-Dowey.

Pro tip: For the best results, look for ingredients like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Vitreoscilla, and prebiotic sugars like xylitol when purchasing probiotic-rich skincare. Also, keep in mind that probiotic skincare is extremely delicate.

KEEP IN MIND:

• Probiotic products have a very low shelf life.
• Avoid probiotic products in loose packaging.
• Don’t buy something that has been exposed to the sun.
• Expert guidance is often beneficial. So make an appointment with your dermatologist to learn more about your skin’s needs and the types of probiotics that will work best for you.

The takeaway

Protecting your skin’s microbiome is vital. And believe me when I say that finding a skincare routine that works for you is like finding gold! So give this new probiotic skincare a try this year; who knows, it might just change your life. After all, the year 2021 is all about trying new things and adjusting to the new standard… Allow your skin to be teaming with good-friendly bacteria that support its immune and barrier functions.

It’s time to pack your skincare arsenal with these trendy skincare ingredients of 2021

Only if you have been living under a rock you would not know about all the buzz around the new trending skincare ingredients of 2021. Our scientists are working hard to solve the puzzles. And it seems like new skincare ingredients are discovered every week. I’m not suggesting you abandon retinol or turmeric. Also, I agree that everyone should use SPF faithfully but there are also loads of new skincare products and ingredients that you must not hesitate to try.

What we want is clear, radiant, and hydrated skin at the end of the day. And the pursuit of beautiful skin can be daunting. Finding the right skincare ingredient for our skin can be like finding a needle in a haystack, with so many new skincare ingredients on the market. Worry not!

Here we are sharing the top 5 skin care ingredients that are trending for 2021 so you can keep them on your radar.

1. Glycolic Acid

Glycolic is Iconic when it comes to solving Major skin problems 

What Is Glycolic Acid? What Does It Do To Your Face and Skin?

Have you ever heard, ‘Great products sell themselves?’ And what makes the product so great are its ingredients. In the skincare industry, several ingredients are celebrated as miracle workers, but Glycolic acid still manages to steal the show.

The smallest alpha hydroxy acid is a powder made up of colourless and odourless crystals. It is derived from sugarcane and is well-known for its ability to penetrate the skin effectively.

This super ingredient, believe me, can be your go-to solution. It can treat a wide range of skin problems, from acne to pigmentation and ageing.

The reason is that it softly unbinds dead skin cells present on the skin, which brings healthy skin to the surface. As a result, we have glowing, refreshed, and cleaner skin, as well as a slew of other advantages.

Benefits Of Glycolic Acid :

• Exfoliation
• Anti-aging
• Humectant
• Acne fighting properties
• Preps up the skin for other products

When applied to the skin, this magic ingredient works to break the bonds between the outer layer of skin cells. This includes dead skin cells and the next skin cell layer. It creates a peeling effect that can make the skin appear smoother and even.

Which skin type does glycolic acid work best for?

Glycolic Acid is highly effective in most cases- Normal, oily, or combination skin types. One must be careful to select skincare products having glycolic acid in the strength of 10% regularly.

Pro tip: Glycolic acid peels contain 20-30% of the active and should be used once every 6 months.

2. Squalane

Hydrated skin is healthy skin, that’s why Squalane is in!

What is Squalane?

When we speak of the skincare game, it’s simple to get overwhelmed with choosing the correct products for our skincare routine. But the choice should be made wisely. Squalane is well-known for its hydrating properties. It’s no wonder that skincare experts are flocking to squalane oil. If you ask me, I believe this ingredient will be around for a long time.

Let’s cut to the chase—What is squalane? 

Squalane is a derivative of squalene (which is naturally formed by the lipids of skin cells and is found in human sebum) and is much lighter. And because of that, it is one of the best options for acne-prone skin. It has a longer shelf life as compared to squalene. And the reason is that it does not go through oxidation. As a result, it’s a popular ingredient in skincare products like moisturizers.

Benefits of Squalane :

1. Skin hydration

2. Emollient

3. Antioxidant

It can soothe many inflammatory skin problems. These include:

• Inflammatory Acne
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis
• Rosacea

Who should use it?

Both squalene and squalane are excellent skin moisturizers. You’re probably ready to test the waters and give squalane a try now that you’ve learned about the benefits of this super ingredient.. The good news is that since squalene is unlikely to irritate the skin, it can be used even for those with sensitive skin. It is considered to have emollient, moisturising, and antioxidant properties, as I previously mentioned. It can be a perfect addition to your skincare routine, whether you’re struggling to keep your skin hydrated or want to step up your anti-aging routine.

3. Niacinamide

That Nice, notable, nourishing ingredient!

What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also called vitamin B3, is one of the water-soluble B vitamins. Niacin or nicotinic acid has been a mainstay in some of your most loved products for decades. Its compatibility with other ingredients in your skincare routine is one of its distinguishing features. Retinol, Vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs, other antioxidants, and also peptides are some examples.

Benefits of Niacinamide:

• Improves Immunity

• Minimizes redness and blotchiness

• Minimizes pore appearance

• Regulates oil

• Protects against sun damage

• Treats hyperpigmentation

• Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles

• Protects against oxidative stress

• Treats acne

Will Niacinamide Work For My Skin Type?

Hell yeah! This ingredient, in my opinion, is well-deserving of a spot on the list of top skincare ingredients for 2021. Niacinamide has a tendency to make you feel like something is too good to be true. Putting it straight, it is beneficial for all skin types. Particularly if you have eczema or have older skin. It is recommended that people use it twice a day, in the morning and evening. However, formulations (such as serums and moisturisers) that can be left on the skin for optimal absorption can be used to achieve the best results.

4. Grapeseed oil

The Glorious Grapeseed oil has all the potential to become your next go-to ingredient in case of any skin problem

What is Grapeseed Oil?

One generation after another has touted natural oils for multiple moisturizing, shielding, and antibacterial qualities. But with the growth and development of our modern cosmetics industry, it looks like there’s a new beauty oil being sworn in as the next big thing every couple of days. With so much daunting upon us, It’s becoming a humongous task to decide which one to welcome into the fold as our skin’s latest partner-in-crime. And it is here that our grapeseed oil distinguishes itself from the competition.

Grapeseed Oil is a byproduct of winemaking. Once the grapes are squeezed, the seeds are leftover. There are divergent methods of extracting the oil from the seeds. Cold-pressed is finest for cosmetic purposes.  Now that you know something about this magic ingredient let’s dive into how can it work wonders for your skin…

Grapeseed Oil Benefits for your skin :

• Manages acne
• Protects against free radicals
• Moisturizes and balances the skin
• Reduces inflammation
• Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles

Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of grapeseed oil are well-known. These qualities, along with vitamin E and high levels of omega chain fatty acids, have made it a highly effective topical skin treatment.

Grapeseed Oil – Will it suit your skin you ask?

Grapeseed oil is light, unlike other oils that may only function for certain skin types or clog pores. The most critical criterion is that it is non-comedogenic. As a result, it is ideal for a wide range of skin types. People with sensitive and acne-prone skin, you too!

Grapeseed oil has components that can help to improve numerous skin concerns. Those with several skin issues must switch to grapeseed oil. It’s time to put down all your other oils and give Grape Seed a chance to shine!

5. Bakuchiol

Look your best with Bakuchiol 

What is bakuchiol?

The seeds of the Indian Babchi plant are used to make this dazzling ingredient (scientifically known as Psoralea Corylifolia plant.) It’s marketed as a safer, more natural alternative to retinol. Retinol is often regarded as a multitasking skin saviour, but Bakuchiol is vying for the top spot.

It allows your delicate skin to regenerate, increase cell turnover, and stimulate collagen development. Unlike retinol, which can cause severe dryness, itching, and peeling of the skin.

Bakuchiol is a good choice because it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.  People with sensitive skin types who have not been best friends with retinol lately can enjoy the benefits of bakuchiol. Unlike retinol, it’s also safe to use while pregnant and breastfeeding. The best aspect is that it is vegan-friendly, making it ideal for those who choose to live a plant-based lifestyle.

Benefits of using Bakuchiol for your skin :

• Improve skin brightness
• Sort uneven skin tone
• Up plumpness
• Minimize enlarged pores
• Boost firmness
• Smooth out texture
• Lessen fine lines.

In a nutshell, it offers all the same plus points as retinol – but with less risk of irritation. So you can choose what’s better…

Can Bakuchiol be used for all skin types?

Yes, indeed! Bakuchiol’s allure is that it is tolerated by all. You’re much more likely to get along with it than you are with retinol, whether you’re dry, allergic, or dehydrated. Bakuchiol allows you to look your best because it safely delivers the strength of retinoids to you without the harmful side effects.

The Final Words

Many of us are still spending the majority of our time within our houses. It has all become so monotonous and tedious to cope up with. The days and months seem to blend together, causing day-to-day and sleep patterns to get all out of whack… Even when you dare to step out your skin is under the attack radar of big monsters like pollutants. You need a strong solution to save your skin’s glow and glory. Pampering your skin with the best ingredients that ought to work miracles can be it. Like they say, ‘there’s always a first time.’ With so much information packed about the best skincare ingredients of 2021, make sure you make your experience of their ‘first-time use’ special !!

The Umpteen Benefits of this natural plant for glowing face and clear skin

You must be well apprised of aloe vera’s dominance in the beauty and skincare industry because it is not an ordinary plant that grows in our backyard with its roots in folklore. It has the power to nourish! Aloe vera, also known as Aloe barbadensis miller, is one of the most commonly used herbal treatments for topical skin conditions. Not only that, but it’s also the heart of a multibillion-dollar industry. The advantages of this “miracle vine” are all around us. From nutritious juices to makeup and hair care, there’s something for everyone. Isn’t it funny how we’ve tried and tested every single beauty ingredient to get the elusive’mystic glow,’ but aloe vera has yet to become a staple in our skincare routine?

Let’s take a look at some compelling reasons to do so. Aloe vera has slowly but steadily made its way into almost every aspect of our lives. It possesses a wide range of fitness, appearance, medicinal, and skincare benefits. The generation before knew this well. That is why it has been regarded as “the universal panacea” by Greek scientists and “the plant of immortality” by the Egyptians. It’s also a well-known medicinal plant. Not only does this gooey superhero provide relief from monstrous sunburns, but it also aids in the treatment of frostbite, psoriasis, cold sores, and other skin disorders. Aloe vera gel is also your saviour if you want to get rid of blemishes and wounds. Uh, multitasking.

What is aloe vera gel, exactly?

All about aloe vera gel and its uses …

Aloe vera gel is the translucent gel-like material found within the plant’s leaves. Vitamins, salicylic acids, enzymes, lignin, saponins, minerals, carbohydrates, and amino acids are among the 75 potentially active constituents.

Despite the fact that this super ingredient was just recently, it has long been documented in the beauty bible for its numerous benefits. The best part is that, unlike most skincare ingredients, it works with almost all skin types, including dry, oily, and sensitive skin. The most powerful type of aloe vera gel is found within the plant’s leaves. However, I am aware that not all people have an aloe plant hanging around their house. In such instances, over-the-counter (OTC) goods suffice. If you want the best performance, look for a gel that has aloe vera as its main ingredient! To be honest, aloe vera extracts don’t work as well as gel for skin ailments. This is due to the fact that the gel contains moisturising elements that protect and heal the skin.

Now is the time to stop scratching your head and consider whether, with all the excitement surrounding the plant, Aloe Vera should become a permanent fixture in your skincare routine. Ok, I’d say yes.

You might have had a glance at this thorny green plant a million times without being aware of the million ways in which you can use the precious Aloe Vera plant and its gel for your face and skin. But don’t worry; we will be covering that for you in this article:)

Benefits of Using Aloe Vera on Your Face and skin

1. It Soothes Sunburns

Would you believe me if I say that we also refer to aloe vera as a “burn plant?” Only because it has superpowers to very effectively soothe the sunburns. You are not dreaming, this mighty plant contains certain compounds known as polysaccharides. They promote skin repair and the establishment of new skin cells. Aloe vera contains carboxypeptidase, a pain-relieving drug. Also, the source of the chilling, calming feeling. Aloin (the compound responsible for the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties) prevents sunburned skin from peeling.

One can also apply aloe vera on the face to get rid of visible signs of sun damage like mild sunburns, freckles, or dark spots. 

2. Magic happens when it moisturizes

If you don’t know the difference between noob and pro, you will in a second. Aloe Vera gel differs from store-bought moisturisers in that it does not leave a greasy residue on the skin or face. It softens the skin and clears the pores instead.

Men can use it as an aftershave treatment since Aloe Vera gel helps keep the skin hydrated and heals burns by razor and smaller nicks & cuts. It also helps treat dry skin. Enable aloe vera to extract all the dullness from your skin if you love yourself. You’ll be wearing it for the rest of your life, after all. Always note that the purest Aloe is the strongest.

3. It Fights Acne and Fades Blemishes

Use aloe vera every day to keep blemishes and acne at bay. Yes, far far away! This plant is highly prized in the cosmetics industry due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It inhibits the growth of the bacteria that causes acne. As mentioned above the salicylic acid in Aloe Vera helps in unclogging the pores, which is a very nice thing when you deal with pimples and blackheads. Aloe vera also helps in removing the pesky scars and fading the blemishes. Ladies, it’s time to say goodbye to your blemishes and hello to aloe!!!

4. Aloe Vera is a super ingredient for sensitive skin. The list of its benefits is never-ending? Literally. I mean it.

• It Helps In Relieving Skin Irritation
•  It Treats Mouth Sores
•  It Cleanses The Skin
•  It Slightly Exfoliates the Skin
•  Aloe Vera has antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and enzymes, which can treat dry skin, burns, acne, and several other skin issues.

With all these wonderful benefits, Aloe Vera is very good for the face.

Looks like your hair needs some attention too, so let’s dive into what aloe Vera can do for your hair…

Aloe Vera for Hair & Scalp

Aloe vera gel uses and benefits for shiny, silky, and smooth hair.

1 – Long tress and no more stress

Aloe Vera gel, like skin reproduction, aids in the activation of new hair growth by increasing blood supply to the scalp. It also gives you the minerals and vitamins you need. It contains proteolytic enzymes that aid in the repair of dead scalp tissue. As a result, aloe vera is an excellent scalp treatment. Your life may not be flawless right now, but your hair will undoubtedly be when you use Aloe Vera!

2 – It’s tough enough to treat your dandruff!

Dry skin, fungal infections, and overly oily skin are all helped by the gooey superhero. Both of these factors contribute to dandruff. It is one of the most natural remedies for dandruff.

3 – Acts as a conditioner to hair and scalp

My friend has been using aloe vera for the past three weeks. And when I met her the first thing that came out of my mouth as – if your hair were any shiner, I’d need sunglasses. That makes it obvious that aloe vera gel is amazing when it comes to conditioning your hair. Just as how Aloe Vera moisturises the skin and softens the hair in the same way as it moisturises the skin. Applying Aloe gel to the hair and scalp on a regular basis helps to keep the hair healthy.

How to choose the best aloe vera gel

Now that we know how good aloe vera gel is for skin and hair we should also try to understand how to choose the best one. The reason being: not all of us have this gorgeous gooey super ingredient grown to use naturally and directly. So keep these tips and info from dermatologists in mind before you commit to a bottle of aloe.

• The higher the percentage, the better.

Pure products are perfect, they say! If the percentage of aloe vera is low, that means it contains several other additives, such as thickeners, preservatives, colors, and fragrance. These additional ingredients may make the aloe vera less effective. Although some preservation is necessary. What you may do is try to find one that has the least number of ingredients, and the highest percentage of aloe vera. This will help. 

• Watch out for tricky wording

To be true, marketing gimmicks of the 21st century are far beyond consumer’s understanding. When the label says “100 percent gel,” that means that it’s a pure gel, not pure aloe vera. Smart consumers should look for words like “99 percent pure aloe vera” on the bottle, or make sure that aloe vera is listed first on the ingredients list—the more ingredients listed before aloe, the less aloe is in the product.

• Check the expiration date.

To be sold in a variety of stores, products must also contain a preservative to prolong shelf life and protect against microbes. Shorter-shelf-life aloe vera gels, on the other hand, may mean a cleaner product. Bear in mind that aloe vera gels containing alcohol, scent, or colur should be avoided.

 If you’re able to reap the benefits of adding aloe vera into your skincare routine but don’t want to go through the hassle of shopping for it, here’s the best product to help you save time…

Matra Aloe Vera Glow Gel Sun & Pollution Relief with Green Tea and Peppermint Extracts

Matra’s Aloe Vera Glow Gel with Green Tea and Peppermint Extracts gives you an everlasting glow and absolute protection from sun and pollution damage. This Aloe Vera Glow Gel is antioxidant-rich that is infused with the additional benefits of Green tea. This gel is suitable for all skin types. It is a natural aloe vera glow gel without parabens, SLS, and petroleum.

Your baby is lovely, but post-delivery is also the right time to pamper your skin

Mothers are a walking miracle! Indeed. And since you just entered the most beautiful phase of your life it’s important to know that being a new mom will require you to be on your toes always! This might leave you sleep-deprived and helpless sometimes. And it can be difficult to even have a few seconds all by yourself. In the long run, all of it takes a toll on your body and also on the charming skin you once had.

But hey! To keep your baby hale and hearty you need to be healthy first. Hair and skin go through various major changes during and after pregnancy. Some women experience acne, pigmentation, stretch marks, dark circles, puff eyes, hair loss, etc. There’s no doubt that going through this phase is a true roller-coaster of hormones and the built-up stress of becoming a new parent could leave your skin looking dull, pigmented, and upset. 

While some lucky women have what we call the ‘glow of pregnancy’ others have the worst acne breakouts of their lives. If you haven’t yet figured out a beauty regime, we have little beauty tips and simple but pampering rituals to make you feel charming and refreshed again. 

Changes You notice In Your Skin and Hair…

What They Mean and what is happening

Hair Loss: Long tresses, body-hugging dresses? No more really??? Well, hair loss is a major problem today. And very common post-pregnancy. It will haunt you from around the 3rd to 4th-month post-delivery.

• During pregnancy, the hair is in the growing stage and the falling stage is slowed down.

• Thanks to the rise in hormone levels during pregnancy, you would have had beautiful lustrous hair.
• After delivery, the hormone levels come back to normal and the normal hair cycle is resumed.
• Therefore, women go through a phase of shedding a lot of hair, which may look very scary, but is entirely normal. Don’t worry, you are not going bald!
• This hair loss is temporary and you will observe your hair texture coming back to normal 6 to 12 months after delivery.

Ways to take care of hair loss post-delivery

Following these 4 easy tips will ensure you keep that hair loss in control.

1. Eat Healthily – Load your life with happiness and your plate with food rich in antioxidants! By that, I mean strawberries, apples, rajma, prunes, etc. The antioxidants help strengthen the roots and make your hair a lot shinier.
2. Vitamin Supplements –Your post-pregnancy body will need some supplements to help you get back its strength. Make sure you take your vitamins like Vitamin C and B regularly to maintain fuller hair.
3. Chemical Treatments – Play with your baby for some time, not hair. Try to avoid coloring, straightening, and perming your hair, as this may lead to hair loss.
4. Keep Your Scalp And Hair Clean:

• Wash your scalp with a light anti-hair loss shampoo.
• Condition your hair to avoid any breakage.
• If you are running late, apply for a leave-in conditioner. This will surely help.
• Also, avoid pulling and tying hair tightly.

Ways to take care of your skin post-delivery

Pregnancy is a gorgeous journey, but it affects every mother differently. While some women glow like never before, some face issues like extreme dryness and lost sheen. But one thing’s certain, all the new mothers need to take care of their skin and hair properly or else the negligence can cost them their beauty. 

1. Acne: During pregnancy, because of high progesterone levels, your skin can become excessively oily. Later resulting in acne breakouts. Sleepless nights and worst breakouts? Wow! Because of changes in hormone levels, you may break out in acne after pregnancy, even if your skin was clear throughout 9 months.

• Remember to cleanse your face with a mild cleanser twice a day.
• Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer once in the morning and night, right before sleeping.
• You can use a mild scrub with small soft granules once a week.
• Apply products with natural ingredients like aloe vera, eucalyptus, etc.

2. Pigmentation: As a new mother, you are probably familiar with dirty diapers, gooey food, and maternity clothes that smell like sweat and baby creams. It’s all part of motherhood, and there’s completely nothing bad or shameful about that. At this point, your number one priority is to keep the baby happy.

Still, this should not be an excuse to avoid taking care of your hair and skin. Pigmentation or melasma is the dark patch or spots on your skin. If you face the same the reason may be high levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy.

• The spots on your face will also lighten and will most likely vanish after a year post-birth.
• To ensure you don’t aggravate the pigmentation or get new spots, ensure you use sunscreen daily.
• If you stay indoors during the day, use sunscreen with SPF 15.
• If you tend to step out for more than 10-15 minutes, use SPF 30 or SPF 50 and cover your skin as much as possible.
• As a daily moisturizer, consider the one that is specifically made for pigmented skin.

3. Dark Circles And Puffy Eyes:

As you sleep, your body rejuvenates itself. But dark circles and puffy eyes are very common post-pregnancy. These are caused due to changes in hormone levels and the lack of sleep. Your eyes reflect the tiredness your body experiences in the form of puffed-up eyes and dark circles.

During your sleep, your skin enters “self-repair mode” and it’s attempting to look its best for the next day. While it might not be possible to sleep when you feel like because your baby needs you, you should get as much sleep as you can. So sleep when the baby sleeps. Moreover, make sure you enjoy as many “me time” moments as possible.

4. Stretch Marks: 

Beautiful skin never happens overnight, certainly without any effort whatsoever! You will have to work for it. And when it comes to skin, stretch marks tend to be one of the most stubborn ones to get rid of. As the name goes, it is caused due to the stretching of the skin. Due to the sudden contraction of the skin after birth, the skin develops small tears, causing it to get cringed in specific areas. These are usually found in the breast, buttocks, stomach, thighs, and behind the knee areas.

To tackle these you can try to:

1. Regularly massage your chest, thighs and with olive oil, vitamin E, or castor oil.
2. Aloe Vera Gel is known to help reduce stretch marks. It also instantly soothes and heals the skin making it look more glowy.
3. You can try applying egg whites on your stretch marks. This provides the skin with a high dose of protein which is very necessary for repair.
4. Run lemon juice over your stretch marks. The acidic content heals and reduces stretch marks.
5. Potato juice is another good option. Take the juice of a medium potato and let your skin soak it to visibly reduce your stretch marks over time.

So all the recently blessed moms out there, While motherhood experience can be very rewarding and great, it is nevertheless a whole different experience for your body. Skin and hair care after pregnancy is as important as changing diapers. Be kind to your body and pamper it as much as you pamper your newborn baby – they both deserve your love and attention!