UV Radiations: Advantages and Disadvantages you need to know!
You must’ve heard that, we need to protect ourselves from UV radiations. But if UV rays are so damaging to our skin then why are we always constantly exposed to UV rays? Shouldn’t we be living in a UV protection bubble?
Let’s dive in today at Sphere medium and learn about Ultra violet radiations.
Purging vs Breakouts; causes, symptoms and How to reduce purging!
Have you ever used a skincare product with the hopes of treating your acne only to be presented with skin much worse than you anticipated? And then you got confused thinking if it’s breaking you out or is it purging?
Separating facts from fiction; 5 failed social media skin hacks
Learning about skincare is all about trial and error and watching other people do it. The problem is, no one actually taught us how to use skincare properly. So, more often than not, most of us end up turning to social media to learn how to use certain skincare and certain skincare hacks to improve our skin’s condition.
5 Telltale Signs Your Skincare Product is Not working for you: Time to Switch?
Choosing the right skincare product isn’t easy. There are literally tens of thousands of different products with different brands and different marketing slogans out there, so how do you know whether a product is right for your skin or not?
Sunscreen Slip-Ups: 10 Surprising Mistakes to Avoid for Maximum Sun Protection
Sunscreen Slip-Ups: 10 Surprising Mistakes to Avoid for Maximum Sun Protection
Sunscreen is an important step in our skincare routine, yet lot of people make mistakes when dealing with its application.
Bringing to you at Spheremedium, top 10 sunscreen mistakes that you might be making, which unintentionally might be harming your skin.
How to Avoid the White Cast of Sunscreen: Tips and Tricks for a Seamless Glow
Mineral sunscreens are generally one of the best sunscreens to use because they can be used by people with sensitive skin all the way to acne-prone skin, from a three-month-old baby all the way to an 80-year-old man. But people are now trying to avoid it, because of one major problem; it leaves a ghostly white cast! White cast What is white cast and why is it so prevalent in mineral sunscreen? The white cast is caused by two core ingredients in mineral sunscreen or hybrid sunscreen: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.Now, among the both, zinc oxide actually gives you the whitest cast, which is the whitish discoloration of your skin. Importance of White Cast The white cast of physical sunscreen is important because it reflects away UV radiation, which is harmful for your skin. Hence, the white in the whitish color and the particular white cast, or zinc oxide, will actually maximize the protection for your skin. Those with darker skin tones find this white discoloration or the white cast caused by mineral sunscreen to be a little bit annoying. Because then, they have this dual skin tone whereby the skin on face is fair, but the skin on hands and on neck is dark. Tips for Dealing with the White Cast Here at Spheremedium I’ll share the five methods to reduce the white cast in physical or mineral sunscreens. 1. Tinted Sunscreen Use tinted sunscreen. These sunscreens are actually mineral sunscreens, but along with zinc oxide, iron oxides are added to them, to give dark hue in color. So tinted sunscreen, instead of giving them that white-cast appearance, gives off more brownish kind of appearance. So it’s more suitable for people with dark skin tones. However, this doesn’t affect the efficacy of mineral sunscreen because it gives you similar protection to zinc oxide and, at the same time, gives you maximum protection from high-energy visible light. It’s also suitable for acne-prone, sensitive skin Individuals. Some popular tinted sunscreens are; Neutrogena pure skin+tinted sunscreen, super goop glow screen, Naked Sundays collagen glow mineral sunscreen. 2. Use beauty blender or pat it Yes! You read it right. Normally, most of us apply sunscreen by rubbing it all over the face. Now, one of the ways to reduce the amount of white cast on your skin is instead of smudging it all over face, is to apply a little bit over your fingertips and then pat it on your skin.Beauty blender can be helpful here. This patting action of the beauty blender prevents the formation of white cast streaks and instead gives you a more even, whitish tone on your skin. So yes, you’re still left with a white cast or whitish discoloration, but it wouldn’t be as severe as just streaking it all over your face. 3. Layer sunscreen Usually sunscreen is applied in daytime when we are heading to work or school. We apply the sunscreen, rub it on face, and then head out the door. One way to reduce the white cast look is to slowly rub the sunscreen on face for a few minutes, because when it’s applied slowly and evenly, the white cast reduces in severity. I understand this method is time consuming, maybe not for days when you’re in hurry, but it works! As recommended quantity to apply sunscreen is roughly one-quarter of a teaspoon of sunscreen to entire face in portions. First, apply some sunblock, and after a minute, layer it again. Keep layering till you’ve done a quarter of a teaspoon. Although it’s a bit of a time-consuming process, but it’s definitely worth it. 4. Top it off with bronzer Now, even though it’s not generally recommended to blend your sunscreen with other products or to probably put something on top of your sunscreen, one of the ways to reduce the white cast is to put makeup on top of your sunscreen. Not the liquid ones as it will mess up with UV filters of sunblock; using bronzer is a good option on top of physical sunscreen. Now what the bronzer does is cover up the white cast by sunscreen and gives skin nice natural skin tone. 5. Allow the sunscreen to set It takes 5–10 minutes for sunscreen to set on face after its application. By leaving it on your skin; allow it time to blend by not doing anything. By doing so severity of white cast decreases by itself. Physical/mineral Sunscreens whose whitcast disappear sometimes after application are; Skin1004 Madagascar centella air fit sun cream , Round lab birch juice moisturizing mild up sun cream ,Goodal heartleaf calming mineral filter. So here are five ways to reduce the white cast of sunscreen. If you have no idea about sunscreens or sunblocks then please go through “Sunscreen Smarts: Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens – What’s the Difference?” at Sphere medium.Do share which sunscreen you are using and if it leaves a white cast or not? And how do you reduce the white cast, if it has any? FAQs what is the difference between physical and mineral sunscreen? They both are same kind of sunscreen. Is white-cast bad for skin? No, it’s due to zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are the basic ingredients in physical/mineral sunblocks. Why use mineral sunscreen if it gives off a white cast? Because it is the best sunscreen for people with sensitive ,acne prone skin, since it doesn’t get absorbed in skin and works by forming a screen on top of skin. What is the white cast of physical sunscreen? It’s due to the physical blockers zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect UV rays. How to Avoid the White-Cast? It’s best to use chemical sunscreen to avoid a white cast, as physical sunscreen always leaves a white cast. Or choose sunscreens labeled “non-whitening” or cosmetically elegant. How to reduce white cast of sunblock? Use a small amount of sunscreen and blend well. Apply sunscreen to damp skin to help it absorb better. Use a makeup brush
Why Korean Sunblocks Stand Out: Unlocking the Secrets of Advanced Sun Protection
There is no denying in a fact that sunscreens should be an important part of your skincare. They are there to protect you from ultraviolet rays of sun which can accelerate aging process and cause cancer. But Why Korean sunscreens? 1. Better uv filters, Higher SPF and PA Ratings I found that Korean sunscreen have a lot better UV filters that currently are not approved in the U.S, especially when it comes to UVA, filters there are a lot more stable and they work better. We know that UVA is a big contribution not only to skin cancer but to hyperpigmentation aswell and the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Now because science behind them is better and that they allow for better UVA protection and also when something is more cosmetically elegant and feels better people are going to want to use it more as part of their daily routine. So if you find yourself internationally with a pa4 plus SPF 50, know that you’re getting the best coverage in terms of UVA and sun protection. To learn more about SPF, PA, types and kinds of sunblocks go through “Sunscreen Smarts: Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens – What’s the Difference?” at Sphere Medium 2. Advanced Formulations Most of the Korean sunscreens have skin care properties in it which you don’t see in the west.So besides providing protection from harmful rays ,skin care ingredients which are hydrating, nourishing and anti inflammatory like, snail mucin,birch sap, green tea ,rice extract are added to promote healthy, youthful skin. Unlike sunblock formulas in west which are loaded with harmful chemicals, Korean sunblocks prioritizes skin health and wellness. Top Korean sunscreens Here’s list of some popular sunscreens I’m combining some of the best sellers on Amazon, on yes Style with the top ranking on Huawei which is an app that ranks Korean bestsellers. 1.Beauty of Joseon relief Sun rice and probiotics SPF50+PA4+ One cannot talk about K Beauty sunscreen without talking about the beauty of Joseon. This sunscreen took the Internet by storm and it’s currently the number one best seller on yes style, one of the best sellers on Amazon and all over YouTube and Tick Tock, all over Instagram for good reason. With all the hype and the buzz around this sunscreen I would not be at all surprised if this was a lot of people’s first K Beauty sunscreen and I wouldn’t be surprised if it changed a lot of people’s perspectives on sunscreen entirely. Surprisingly beauty of Joseon is very popular online and yet not as popular within Korea! Let me know if you’re in Korea and feel free to confirm this. This sunscreen has niacinamide and rice extracts, along with soothing ingredients. It’s a chemical Sunscreen Lightweight Hydrating Non greasy and has a glossy finish Fragrance free, essential oil free Works well under cosmetics Best for dry skin 2. Tocobo Bio Watery Sun Cream Spf50 pa++++ A chemical sunscreen that contains Advanced UVA filters as well as great UVB filters. In addition to niacinamide it also contains a blend of Asian medicinal herbs that have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, so suitable for blemish prone skin and those that are suffering from irritation. Texture: lightweight gel cream that absorbs super-fast Suitable for oily and combination skin No white cast Layers nicely under makeup Leaves a slight dewy finish but not Super glowy 3. Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel spf50 pa4+ This is an Amazon bestseller as well as number three on yes style underneath beauty of Joseon. Interestingly, this is actually a different formula having some old school filters with the advanced ones. It’s a chemical sunscreen having 8 types of hyaluronic acid for optimum hydration along with niacinamide, adenosine (anti-aging), centella Asiatic (skin healing and calming properties. Light in feel Gel texture Glowy/dewy finish, not greasy For oily, sensitive, combination skin 4. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+PA This is a multiaward winner suncream.It is very popular in Korea, more recently it has been gaining popularity worldwide so it is currently number three on Huawei .This is Koreans most sort out suncream, with 2 in 1 function, it can be used as moisturizer and as sunblock and is clinically proven to provide 10 hrs. Sun protection! It contains skin hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and brightening ingredients like vit c, also have birch sap which has anti-inflammatory properties. Chemical sunscreen Great for those with broken skin barrier It doesn’t look too dewy or glowy Little bit more expensive than most of the other options No piling under makeup or white cast Lightweight and Milky texture Easy to spread, silky feel, quick absorption, blends seamlessly Perfect winter sunscreen Best for dry skin /mature skin 5. Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu Cica water fit sun serum spf50 pa4+ It’s a chemical Sunscreen, containing centella which gives soothing and comfortable feel on skin along with niacinamide which controls subum production and have skin brightening properties .It also contains anti-aging ingredients like hyaluronic acid which draws and locks moisture and contain adenosine which smooths the skin and boosts skin elasticity. popular in west and Korea, currently ranking on no. 1 in sunscreen lightweight, airy texture, So comfortable it feels invisible on skin Absorbs with dewy finish (oilys be mindful) no white cast alcohol and fragrance free Best for normal to dry skin 6. Haruharu Wonder black rice moisture airyfit sunscreen spf50 pa4+ It’s a chemical Sunscreen containing ceramide and niacinamide with rice bran oil with rice extract. Lightweight, creamy, airy texture Thickest in above all sunscreens Semi matte, velvety finish No cast Fragrance free Suitable for all skin types Conclusion You must have heard the saying that, you need to kiss a couple of frogs before you find your prince and this quote sits well when trying to find your perfect match of sunscreen. Do let me know at Sphere Medium, your thoughts on Korean sunscreens and which one are you currently using. FAQs Are Korean sunscreens better?
The Skin-Climate Connection: How Global Warming Affects Your Skin and What You Can Do
As you know, climate change is a global issue affecting us all. But what is climate change? And why is the climate changing?
Our earth’s climate has been rapidly changing over the past 120 years. Climate change is actually normal; it takes thousands of years for our earth’s climate to change. Now, due to the increase in human activity, there are high levels of fossil fuel burning. A lot of industries are producing gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide as waste products, which is making the climate warmer.
Two leading ladies in The Beauty Industry from Pakistan: Nabila and Nadia Hussain.
Pakistan has seen the emergence of extraordinary talent in the ever changing fields of fashion and beauty that not only redefines beauty standards but also produces goods to meet various demands. The two strikingly prominent ladies who have taken the beauty industry by storm are Nadia Hussain and Nabila. The two make-up maestros have their own product lines throughout Pakistan, and Nabila has her brand available in Dubai too. Both brands are becoming increasingly popular day by day and are the most talked about since a few years now. Let’s discuss the two beautiful ladies, their products, and, of course, the pros and cons of their most liked products. Nabila This lady is the expert behind the Zero Make-up range and also the face behind Nabila’s salon chain. Nabila Maqsood, who is well known as Nabila, not only has decades of experience under her belt but is a well-known name in most households due to her exquisite hair salons and exceptional make-up techniques. Nabila’s luxurious looking cosmetics line promises to give the most natural and an absolute flawless appearance to anyone. Nabila has many products, from lipsticks to concealers and the Zero Foundation range, which I personally have used, but her most popular item to date is the Zero Make-up Palette. The Zero Make-up Palette – Is an all-in-one palette that is designed for when you have no time and are always on the go! This little square of magic contains a concealer, blush, lip color, and a lightweight powder. The Zero Make-up range’s pros include Convenience! Those who desire to decrease their makeup bag and streamline their regimen would find the Zero Make-up Palette ideal. It’s travel-friendly; as it slips into your handbag, so you’re always on top of your make-up game as touch-ups are made easy. Nabilas aim is to accentuate natural beauty rather than cover it up. Her formulations are absolutely lightweight, and all foundations blend effortlessly. The Zero make-up palette comes in different color ranges to suit our vast spectrum of complexions. Zero make-up is also available at Bloomingdales Dubai. What are the cons? Nabila’s make-up range is slightly on the higher side price wise, so the average shopper might find it to be slightly out of their range. Though she has produced her range with a minimalistic approach in mind (which for some is a good thing),The average consumer might feel restricted, especially if they’re looking to broaden their variety of make-up. Nadia Hussain The Multi-Talented Beauty Business Owner, with her Make-up line, an eminent model, actress, and businesswoman, Nadia Hussain, has created a name in the beauty business and runs many salons nationwide. Nadia’s make-up range is designed and produced with the average woman in mind. She has produced a larger range of make-up that is pocket-friendly, has high-quality formulas, and bright, flamboyant colors, as well as popular nudes. Her most popular items are the liquid lipsticks, which come in a matte finish, her NH PRO primer, which promises to extend your foundation wear and produce a flawless canvas for you to work on, and for that gorgeous glittery glow that one can’t do without—NH face glow highlighter! Which provides that shine from within. What are the pros of Nadia’s make-up range? Nadia’s make-up range is very affordable, which makes it easy for the average woman to get her hands on. Her make-up range is vast, which gives consumers a lot of variety. Dark and strong, vivid shades – for those who like a stronger, heavier look. Nadia’s make-up range is said to be highly pigmented. What are the cons of Nadia’s make-up range? Consumers notice that the texture and consistency of liquid lipsticks are never uniform; there are a lot of decrepancies, which can be off-putting for a regular buyer. Some of the highly pigmented make-up can sometimes leave stains after being removed. Although Nadia’s brand is quickly expanding, it’s still not available abroad, which leaves some of her avid followers with an upsetting void. Conflicts among Nabila and Nadia Hussain Although both Nabila and Nadia Hussain are well-known personalities in the cosmetics business, their working relationship hasn’t always been perfect. Some noteworthy disputes between the two follow here. In 2021 their dispute over product similarity. When Nadia started her own brand of make-up, which included a contour and highlighter combo like Nabila offers, one of the most discussed issues was that Nadia’s marketing approach and product design were quite similar to those of Nabila’s Zero Make-up line. This sparked a furious debate on social media as both sides maintained their originality and charged one another with copying. The conflict grew more intense when Nadia Hussain, in an interview, said she loved Nabila’s work but felt her brand’s goods lacked originality enough to have a market advantage. Nabila, who expressed her disappointment on social media, felt this remark did not fit her. The conversation spurred a discussion among their supporters about the strengths of every brand as they adopted sides. Public Declarations and Clarifications: Both Nabila and Nadia responded to the concerns by making public remarks elucidating their stances. Nabila underlined her years of expertise and the uniqueness of her brand philosophy, while Nadia underlined her attempts to satisfy a new market niche with special product characteristics and reasonable costs. With their individual approaches and ideas, Nabila and Nadia Hussain have both greatly added to the Pakistani beauty scene. There’s something for everyone, whether your taste is for the understated, natural look of Nabila’s Zero Make-up or the vivid, strong choices from Nadia Hussain’s range. Though fascinating, the debates also draw attention to the competitive nature of the beauty business and the fervent love these people have for their profession. For more tips on guide to undersanding your undertone, check out our articles onHow to Choose the Perfect Foundation: A Guide to Understanding Your Undertoneand You can also explore a full collection of skincare articles here FAQs How different is Nabila’s Zero make-up line from that of other brands available? Nabila’s Zero
