Skincare is far from a one-size-fits-all formula. It often may seem daunting to many, with the prevalence of multi-step regimens and the sheer volume of products on the market. If you are nodding vigorously at the screen (right about now), we’ve got great news for you!
To help you see how easy and simple skincare can be, we at Nykaa are rallying for a result-oriented, 4-step CSMS regimen mapped into a spectrum of concerns, this summer. For the uninitiated, CSMS is an acronym for Cleanser-Serum-Moisturiser-Sunscreen, a no-frills routine that’s tailor-made for Indian skin. Steering clear of redundancy, this dermatologist-approved regimen aims to circumvent any underlying skin concerns and stands you in good stead. Whether you are a skincare novice, venturing into an obscure territory or looking to switch up your regimen due to the balmy weather — the simple and infallible CSMS regimen will grant you the skin of your dreams. Scroll further for our stellar product recommendations, divided across skin types!
For Dry Skin
The relentless sun can wreak havoc on the skin, making it exceedingly dry. This parchedness may often result in episodes of flakiness and irritation. To help deal with this concern, go for products featuring hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which bind moisture into the skin.
This efficacious drugstore cleanser leaves your skin feeling squeaky clean and moisturised. It adeptly expels the gunk and dust from your face without disturbing the skin’s natural pH. For ₹ 333 apiece, this soap-free, non-irritating formula is a steal deal for people with dry skin.
Brimming with hyaluronic acid (a humectant), this serum is a tall glass of water for people with dry skin. The lightweight, non-greasy concoction by L’Oreal Paris binds water molecules into the skin and guarantees a smooth, lit-from-within glow. A must-have for all seasons and reasons, grab yours on Nykaa for a jaw-dropping price of INR 529.
Giving your skin a big boost of hydration — the Clinique Moisture Surge goes 10 layers deep and lasts for a whopping 100 hours. The offering is infused with HA, which serves as a gigantic water tank to alleviate parched skin. The ultra-light, exquisitely-rich formula also carries aloe vera, which forms an invisible film, preventing loss of moisture content.
The harmonious blend of fruit extracts, Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid in this formula ensures deep hydration with formidable sun protection. An ideal addition to your summer vanity, this science-backed formula pushes moisture from the basal layers to the dermis.
Alternatively, you may also pick
This broad-spectrum sunscreen by The Derma Co hydrates the skin while shielding it from harmful UV radiation. You can bank on the goodness of vitamin E to reverse any sun-induced damage. The best part is how this dermatologically-tested offering doesn’t suffocate the skin and leaves no white cast, too!
For Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can flare up at the slightest inconvenience. We recommend opting for gentle cleansers that are devoid of irritants. Moisturisers, imbued with natural antioxidants that fight off free radicals and soothing agents, such as honey, and aloe vera, help to alleviate possible instances of inflammation or infection, must make your shopping list.
Formulated with advanced treatments and Swiss biotechnology, the Biotique Fruit face wash is soap-free, yet lathers exceptionally well. Due to the presence of pineapple, tomato and lemon (abundant sources of vitamin C), this potent formulation cleanses your skin with a long-lasting brightening effect. The star ingredient, however, is aloe vera which heals aggravated skin while ensuring ample hydration.
Free of parabens, sulphates and petroleum- the Olay Vitamin C serum is an elixir for enhancing your skin’s natural glow. The super serum also features Niacinamide which helps administer even skin tone by dwindling the appearance of dark spots. One of the bestsellers from the marque skincare brand, it guarantees you great value for money.
Double down on sun protection, this season, with the Nykaa SKINRX, SPF-imbued day moisturiser. This quick-absorbing formula is conscious, long-staying and doesn’t leave behind a dreadful white cast. The cream features amla which adroitly fends off toxins and reverses skin ageing. Also featured in the blend is Kakadu plum which boosts skin radiance!
The Dot And Key Vitamin C+ E sunscreen sits on the skin super comfy, deeming it a fitting choice for folks with sensitive skin concerns. The broad-spectrum SPF guards your skin against UVA, UVB, and blue light. Also, the sheer abundance of vitamin C in this concoction combats skin damage caused due to free-radicals. What we love the most, is how this potent sunscreen is non-comedogenic and doesn’t run with sweat. Neat, right?
For Combination Skin
Dealing with a combination skin type can be a bit of a doozy, we agree. When your T-zone expels surplus oil like it's nobody’s business, but you also grapple with random, dry patches on the face— turning to balanced skincare is the only way through. Opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers, oil-devoid moisturisers and lightweight sunscreens that won’t clog the pores on your face.
The organic formula by Lotus Professional is gentle on the skin. Featuring a skin-satiating cocktail of amla berry, lychee, and Punarnava root, the face wash ensures thorough cleansing whilst administering a healthy glow. The nifty li’l offering brings the best of both worlds to your vanity— bottling by the wisdom Ayurveda executed with the latest technology.
A cult classic from the science-backed brand, The Ordinary, this niacinamide serum works on multiple fronts — fighting skin congestion, curbing oil production and dwindling appearance of blemishes. This super serum, infused with zinc also promotes healthy skin by bolstering barrier function. Deemed fit for the combination skin type, you may weave this serum into your PM regimen.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Mini Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration
A Femina Beauty Awards Winner— the Neutrogena Hydro Boost, indeed does justice to its name. It supplements the skin with the requisite amount of hydration (attributed to the presence of HA) without the stress of clogged pores. The gel-based formula proves to be ideal for people with a combination skin type, as it's lightweight and comfy.
The perfect candidate for people with combination skin is the Dr Sheth's Oil And Acne Control Suncreen. The formula ensures deep hydration for the skin while curbing the excess production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Boasting a gel-like consistency, this SPF leaves a beautiful matte finish on the skin. It adeptly does away with the unwarranted shine on the face once applied topically. The healing prowess of Cantella comes in handy for alleviating aggravated or inflamed skin.
For Oily Or Acne-Prone Skin
Cracking the perfect regimen for oily or acne-prone skin revolves around light, non-comedogenic formulations, preferably imbued with agents such as tea tree, benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. We also recommend steering clear of irritants which may flag off bouts of zits, out of the blue. Please note: unlike the common misconception, a moisturiser is a must, even for people grappling with excessively oily skin. More on that, ahead!
To keep episodes of acne at bay, it's integral to ensure that the pores on your skin are devoid of excessive oil and gunk. And we are recommending the Plum Green Tea Pore Cleanser for this job. This gentle, conscious formula lathers exceptionally well and guarantees a thorough wash with just a coin-sized amount. The presence of green tea extracts prevents excess oil production and fights off impurities. Furthermore, this cleanser is infused with glycolic acid, a gentle yet effective exfoliator that does away with the dried-off, dead skin on your face.
Touted as the MVP to fight off all acne-related concerns— the salicylic-based face serum cuts through oil and dwindles episodes of acne breakouts. Purging your pores of dirt and grime, this potent formulation ought to be your go-to pick through various stages of active acne. The serum sloughs off the dead cells without disturbing the skin’s natural pH. Grab yours today from Nykaa!
Unlike the popular misconception, a good moisturiser is essential, even for people with exceptionally oily skin. The lack of a moisture film atop the skin leads to transepidermal water loss, causing skin hydration. This flags off the sebaceous glands, which overcompensate for moisture with copious amounts of oil. To help circumvent this problem, we recommend the Ponds Super Light Gel Moisturiser. Supercharged with HA, the gel-based formula ensures up to 24hr of moisturisation!
Sun protection with a gorgeous mattifying effect— sign us up, please. This non-sticky, non-comedogenic lotion sunscreen by Lakme blocks about 97% of UV radiations. Apply a generous amount on your face, neck and other parts which come in direct contact with the sunlight—almost 20 minutes prior to stepping foot outdoors.
