Skin Care
The Importance of Clean Eating for Skin Health
Clean eating is an important concept, but the term itself has created some confusion over the years. The human body is complex and very specific about how it interacts with stimuli — so are the foods we eat. Combining the two takes an understanding of the role food plays in health and, yes, beauty. What is clean eating? Clean eating is a concept based on eating more simply and organically. Like the reemerging keto and paleo diets, the idea is to replace processed items with whole, nutrient-rich foods. These are the foods the body evolved to get the most benefits from, long before modern diets became the norm. Of course, modern diets aren’t just built around what food to eat. Food carries a lot of social value for us too. This is why diets often have a cultural element to them, and this one is no different. Clean eating is also a response to the toll processed foods take on our bodies. Our skin isn’t immune to that toll, either. We see this best in the gut–skin axis —- the relationship between the digestive system and skin health. So how does clean eating support skincare? Modern diets and skin health The saying goes that beauty isn’t skin deep, but neither is skin health. Even topicals — beauty products applied on the skin surface – add nutrients like Vitamin C to support healthy cell functions. Fruits like pomegranates, berries, and citrus are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which damage skin cells and create signs of premature aging. Some foods can have an equal impact the other way. Diets with high levels of fat, sugar, and alcohol lead to more free radical production. We know that high-sodium foods can trick the body into retaining more water and restricting blood vessels. These are just some of the main causes of inflammation in the skin, which is what gives the face a puffy appearance. Sugary drinks also impact our metabolisms and insulin production. This has a knock-on effect on oil production on the skin and the likelihood of acne. Stimuli like coffee also restrict our sleep, which is when the skin does most of its repair work, including: Rebalancing antioxidant and free radical levels Regenerating collagen supply Repairing damaged skin cells What clean eating isn’t Before we dive deeper into how clean eating can combat the consequences of modern diets, we need to dispel some myths. The word “clean” implies that all processed foods are bad for us. The truth is that processed doesn’t always mean “dirty” and “clean” doesn’t always mean healthy. For example, any food with additives in it is usually labeled as processed. Additives can be growth hormones in cows' milk that affect our hormonal balance. They can also be vitamin D added to that same milk to fortify bones and the immune system. On the other hand, while whole foods are generally the best foods, diets are about how we structure the intake. A diet without enough variation, eating at irregular times and portion sizes can be just as harmful to our health. So what’s the best way to approach clean eating for skin health? Clean eating supports natural health functions The Harvard School of Public Health defines a clean, balanced diet as: Colorful and varied fruits and vegetables Whole grains like wheat, oats, and brown rice Protein from lean meat sources, beans, and nuts Healthy plant-based oils like olive, sunflower, and canola Plenty of water, very little sugary drinks and dairy products The body knows how to take care of itself better than we do. The role of a diet is to supply the right fuel, at the right time, in the right quantity. Clean eating gives us a great foundation by advocating for food that’s as close to its natural state as possible. Done right, a clean eating diet supplements the natural functions responsible for our health – even on the skin. Skin health and the vital role it plays Good skin care isn’t just about aesthetics or appearance, It’s important to keep in mind that, at the end of the day, the skin is an organ – the largest one in the body. It has a purpose in maintaining overall health and protecting the entire body. When we treat it like the crucial organ it is, the role our diets play becomes clearer. Clean eating is key to skin health for two reasons here. First, it adds more macro and micronutrients to our diet – essential for cell functions. Second, it removes the foods that inhibit those same functions. Processed foods aren’t just taxing on our health because of what they contain. Sometimes, the real danger is in what they don’t have. They’re often calorie-dense, but lack the fiber, nutrients, and vitamins needed for good health. Restrict only what restricts your health That said, most diets need to be tailored to personal and practical needs. Where you live can significantly restrict access to whole foods. Allergies and intolerances do the same thing to which foods you can ingest. Budget, physical activity, and culture are often considerations too. You don’t need to replace everything in your pantry to reap the benefits of clean eating. Instead, focus on the whole foods that fit your lifestyle best. Clean eating principles are excellent guidelines, but you don’t need to follow them to the letter to make informed decisions. Clean eating the right way Many trendy diets come and go. They often try to introduce new food concepts that may not always last. The best diets are based on the fundamentals of healthy eating – the things we already know can help. Clean eating follows many of the concepts the beauty industry has been teaching for years regarding skin health. Nutrient-rich whole foods in. Problematic ingredients out. Youthful, glowing skin starts with what we eat and how we support healthy cellular functions. When it comes to health and skincare, clean eating teaches us how to meet our bodies halfway.
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What Are the Consequences of Not Getting Enough Sleep?
Getting enough sleep is the most important part of quality skincare. Think of how a bad night’s sleep affects us mentally. We start the morning feeling fatigued, sluggish, and drained — the consequences on skin health can be just as dramatic. There’s good news, though. A full night’s rest is as beneficial as any spa day, and it’s free! To understand the role sleep plays in beauty and skincare, we need to look at what happens when we don’t get enough of it. Beauty sleep — the key to healthy, glowing skin The body is incredible at taking care of itself, but only when our daily habits don’t get in the way. While sleep is associated with resting, it’s also when many key functions become active. Blood flow increases while we’re asleep, delivering nutrients to skin cells and balancing key functions. This also helps the epidermis repair UV damage caused by exposure to harsh sunlight. Even the processes that don’t happen in the skin play a role in its health. Sleep promotes a strong immune system and regulates stress hormones like cortisol. High cortisol levels often lead to more oil production in skin glands. Too much of it can clog pores and create a surface for bacteria and other irritants that lead to breakouts. What happens when we don’t get enough sleep? Quality sleep has an amazing ability to restore, repair, and rejuvenate the entire body. When we don’t get enough of it, we restrict the processes that leave us with supple, glowing skin. The more sleep we lose, the more the negative effects add up. A 2020 study looked at the impact of restricted sleep over six nights in 32 women. Dehydration symptoms started after just one night. This led to wrinkling as the skin lost moisture and became duller. After four nights of restricted sleep, surface texture showed signs of aggravation. Over the entire study, poor sleep affected elasticity the most. Bear in mind that researchers only restricted sleep to four hours. While adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a night, our lives are busier than ever. It’s not hard to find yourself trying to function with only half of that. Like any healthy routine, getting enough sleep starts with forming a habit. When we don’t, we leave our bodies vulnerable and limit the skin’s capacity to protect itself. But how exactly do some of these consequences come about? Visible signs of not getting enough sleep The skin is a complex organ. It’s as sensitive as it is resilient, and we’re still learning about it today. Poor quality sleep doesn’t always impact the skin in the same way. Lifestyle, diet, weather, and stress can also weaken the benefits of quality sleep, but there are common causes we can look out for. Let’s look at the visible signs of restricted sleep, and some of the best-known causes behind them. Puffiness – water retention While oversleeping can lead to puffiness in the face, not sleeping enough will do the same thing. Puffiness is the result of fluid buildup in the skin. There’s a myth that drinking water before bed causes this swelling, but it’s the opposite. When the body is dehydrated, blood vessels enlarge, which helps them retain water. High sodium foods, caffeine, and sleeping face down can aggravate the puffy look. Drinking water and getting enough sleep will help regulate how much water the skin retains while keeping it hydrated and plump. Dull complexion – poor circulation and stress We all have an idea of what radiant skin looks like. Whether that’s a vibrant glow to even coloration, it all starts with quality sleep. This is when the skin balances the factors behind a healthy complexion, from stress hormones to circulation. Stress slows down key functions responsible for cell repair. High-stress levels have the same impact on the skin as poor sleep does. Combined, the two increase inflammation while restricting blood flow, giving the skin a dull appearance. This is how dark circles form under the eyes too. Luckily, getting enough sleep is a great way to regulate stress hormones while supporting skin vitality. Wrinkles and fine lines — dehydration Wrinkles are usually associated with aging and sun damage from harsh UV rays, but dehydration can make them more prominent. Dehydrated skin loses some of its fullness, deepening fine lines on the surface. Keep in mind, though, that dehydrated skin and dry skin aren’t the same conditions. Dry skin is related to oil production and skin type. Dehydration is caused by a lack of water. Getting enough sleep is good for both conditions, but the treatments won’t be the same beyond that. Premature aging – lower collagen production Without enough sleep at night, collagen production slows down. Collagen deficiency can create issues throughout the body, from aching joints to thinning hair. On the skin, this tends to show up as signs of premature aging. Collagen is the protein that gives skin its structure and stretchiness. It makes up 30% of the body’s cells and 90% of dermal fibers in the skin. This is why sleep restriction has such a profound effect on elasticity over time. Collagen helps the skin handle complex movements without losing structure. It slows down the appearance of wrinkles and sagging. Skin will naturally lose collagen throughout the day, so healthy sleep is crucial for restoring it in the evening. Quality sleep is the foundation of good skincare Similar to the benefits of getting enough sleep, the consequences can add up over time. The body naturally does the things that promote healthy skin, but only if it has enough time. We can support these functions by making quality sleep a nightly habit. The right beauty products can supplement skincare as issues come up. Habits like drinking enough water and winding down in the evening will also make sleep easier to come by. Just a few adjustments can make a massive difference to your skin’s appearance and overall health, especially with age. As busy as our lives can get, nothing supports a good skincare routine like getting enough rest.
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Stay Young With A Strong Mind? 9 Ways to Improve Your Mind and Body to Stay Young
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be difficult to make time for the gym and maintain a healthy diet. But staying young, healthy, and fit doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these nine tips, you can optimize your everyday routine and feel great while doing so. Here are 9 ways to keep a strong mind and body: Make sleep a priority. A key way to staying young, healthy, and fit is to make sleep a priority. Studies have shown that the older you get, the more sleep you need. According to the National Sleep Foundation, most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for optimal health and wellness. However, older adults often need to sleep more than this, so if you’re having trouble sleeping, or if you feel like you’re not getting enough sleep, speak to your doctor. Eat healthy. As we age, our bodies naturally start to slow down. This means that it’s important to fuel your body with the right nutrients so that it can stay healthy and strong. One of the best ways to do this is by eating a balanced, healthy diet. This can be as simple as replacing the salty snacks in your cupboard with healthy alternatives like nuts or berries or choosing whole-wheat bread over white. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult, and making small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your health and wellness. Commit to regular exercise. Regular exercise has been proven to increase energy, improve sleep, and reduce stress and anxiety, which can all improve your overall health as you grow older. Regular exercise can improve your overall health, reduce your risk of chronic disease, and reduce your risk of falling as you age. If exercise is new to you or you haven’t been active for a while, it’s important to start small and work your way up. Stay hydrated. Hydrating your body is important at any stage in your life, but it’s especially essential as you age. As you grow older, you naturally lose muscle mass, and your skin may become drier and thinner. You can help slow down this process by staying hydrated with enough water every day. The rule of thumb is drinking eight cups (or 64 ounces) of water each day. If you’re doing regular exercise, you may need even more. Take care of your skin. Looking after your skin is important if you want to maintain a youthful appearance. There are a few simple steps you can take to help keep your skin looking its best. Make sure to clean your face every day with a gentle cleanser. This will remove dirt, oil and makeup that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. You should also exfoliate a few times a week to slough away dead skin cells and reveal brighter, more radiant skin. You should also moisturize your skin daily to keep it hydrated and looking plump and youthful. It’s especially important to use facial moisturizers. Choose a moisturizer that’s suitable for your skin type and apply it daily to tighten lines and wrinkles, remove dark spots, and return a healthy glow to your smile. Workout to keep your mind sharp. We may not be able to remember names or faces as easily, we may have more trouble concentrating, and we may find that we just don't think as quickly as we used to. While there's no way to completely stop the aging process, there are things we can do to keep our minds sharp and help prevent some of the mental decline that comes with age. Stimulate your mind. One of the best ways to keep your mind sharp is to keep it active. Do crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or other brainteasers to give your mind a workout. Read, learn new things, and take on new challenges. Get outside in the sunshine. Spending time outside in nature is one of the best ways to keep your body young, healthy, and fit. Exposing yourself to natural light can help to regulate your circadian rhythm, improve your mood, increase your vitamin D levels, and reduce your risk of certain types of cancer. Just be sure to protect your skin! You can also reap the benefits of being outside by committing to regular exercise outside. If you’re lucky enough to live near a park or forest, you can walk, jog, or even go for a hike whenever you have time. Use anti-aging products. There are plenty of great anti-aging products on the market, such as moisturizers, serums, and eye creams. Using these products can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. While you can’t turn back the clock, you can take preventative measures to slow down the aging process. One of the best ways to do this is by using anti-aging products. There are a variety of anti-aging skincare products available on the market today, including serums, moisturizers, and eye creams. Live a healthy lifestyle. It’s no secret that living a healthy lifestyle can help you look and feel younger. After all, healthy habits like eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep can help improve your overall health and well-being. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. But did you know that certain foods can also help improve your skin’s appearance? For instance, foods that are high in antioxidants, like berries and dark leafy greens, can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. And foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and avocados, can help keep your skin hydrated and looking plump. Conclusion As you get older, it can be easy to relax a little too much and let your health fall by the wayside. However, there are lots of ways you can stay young, healthy, and fit later in life. The best way to stay young is to take care of yourself and be proactive about staying fit and healthy. If you make a couple small changes to your routine, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated, you can really help yourself maintain your health and feel great. These tips are designed to help you stay energetic, vibrant, and strong well into your later years.
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Niacinamide for Improving Skin Tone and Texture
It takes a good skincare routine with the right ingredients to attain a healthy skin tone and texture. Niacinamide plays an essential role in keeping your skin healthy. That’s why it’s a popular ingredient in skincare and used by experts around the world. So what is niacinamide and how does it improve the tone and texture of our skin? What is niacinamide good for? You may know that there are two forms of vitamin B3. One being nicotinic acid and the other being niacinamide. We need vitamin B3 to help our bodies convert food into usable energy and help cells carry out important chemical reactions. While both niacinamide and nicotinic acid provide vitamin B3 activity, they have different chemical structures that affect your health. For example, niacinamide is preferred to treat a B3 deficiency when it leads to pellagra as niacinamide had fewer side effects. Niacinamide can treat a plethora of B3 deficiencies. As well as a range of general skin health issues, including acne and eczema. What are the niacinamide effects on your skin? The water-soluble nutrient works with the natural substances in your skin to improve tone and texture. For example, it can help build proteins in the skin to lock in moisture and prevent skin barrier damage in several ways. Strengthens the skin barrier The skin barrier protects our complexion from pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and more. However, once free radicals weaken the skin barrier, we can experience irritation that leads to sensitive skin and other concerns. Applying niacinamide can stimulate ceramide synthesis, which improves skin cell health, protects skin from damage, and promotes anti-aging. Overall, promoting the skin barrier’s function to better help your body fight off toxins. Reduces the appearance of pores Skin texture tends to appear rough and bumpy when oil and debris get clogged in pores. The pores then increase in size as the clog worsens. Using niacinamide routinely can help pores return to their natural size. It contains properties that can normalize the pore lining and unclog oil and dirt. It also helps regulate sebum production to limit the amount of oil your skin produces. Niacinamide restores the strength of the skin barrier and the sebaceous glands, which produce oil. By normalizing the glands, the product can prevent and tame acne. Higher concentrations of niacinamide can also visibly tighten pores when damaged by the sun. The sun can cause pores to stretch, leading to what some call “orange peel skin.” However, niacinamide can reinforce skin cells to improve the appearance of pores. Retains moisture Our skin’s ceramides start to deplete as we age, so our skin can become dry and flaky due to moisture loss and dehydration. However, niacinamide promotes the production of ceramides and elastin, which are vital components of the skin carrier and helps to retain moisture. Similarly, niacinamide has been shown to improve the hydrating effects of moisturizers. Applying the nutrient with hydrating ingredients, like glycerin or sodium hyaluronate, can help the skin absorb moisture to prevent dry, tight, and flaky skin. Improves discoloration and uneven skin tone It is thought that niacinamide helps restrain melanosomes, which produce melanin that generates pigmentation in our skin and hair. It blocks the transfer of pigment to the skin to prevent discoloration from forming. Niacinamide can also break up existing pigmentation to create a more even and brighter skin tone. One study found that applying a niacinamide moisturizer with 5% concentration twice daily for two weeks improved hyperpigmentation. Reverses DNA damage Our skin can incur DNA damage without us even noticing. This is because a number of free radicals, or daily stressors, can impact our DNA, including environmental pollution and exposure to UV radiation. When niacinamide is applied topically, it converts into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), which contains potent free-radical fighting antioxidant properties. This works to reduce oxidative cellular damage within the skin that is caused by free radicals and reverse the damage. Soothes inflammation Niacinamide has been proven to help heal acne by regulating oil production and unclogging pores. However, it can also help reduce the redness and swelling that occurs with acne. As niacinamide can strengthen the skin barrier, it prevents stinging and burning. Its anti-inflammatory properties also decrease the severity and scarring of acne. As a result, it reduces the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from developing. Where does niacinamide go in your routine? To feel the full effects of niacinamide, you should include it in your skincare routine in the order of: Cleanser Toner Exfoliant Serums, treatments, and moisturizers in order of thinnest to thickest (including niacinamide) SPF Niacinamide is compatible with other powerful ingredients and is often paired with hyaluronic acid, AHAs, BHA, and antioxidants. However, niacinamide products are meant to be left on your skin to achieve the best results. Using a niacinamide product like a serum, cream, or lotion is ideal, but the nutrient is available in a range of products. For example, a toner can rehydrate and replenish the skin after cleansing. Whereas an eye cream containing niacinamide can reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and dark circles. How long does niacinamide take to work? Based on clinical studies, it depends on the condition of your skin before you can visibly see the results of using niacinamide. In mild skincare conditions, you can visibly notice the niacinamide working within two weeks when used twice daily. However, it may take 4-8 weeks for people with more stubborn concerns. You may need a higher concentration if you have stubborn or mature skin with advanced signs of aging or sun damage. Consider using a 20% niacinamide serum twice daily to smooth skin and improve skin firmness. Our new Niacinamide cream is now available on Amazon exclusively! Click here
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Crucial Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Quality of Life
Early in the village of Yazuri Hara, just two hours away from Tokyo, Hiroshi Sakamoto starts his day. At a time when most people would want an extra hour under the covers, he’s up, ready for the next five hours of farmwork. He isn’t the only one. Many of his peers are starting their days too. Even at 86 years old, he’s not an outlier among his peers. Known as the Village of Long Life, 10% of Yuzuri Hara’s residents are 85 or older. That’s a higher average than anywhere in North America or Japan. For all of its people living vibrant lives well into old age, Yazuri Hara isn’t too different from other villages in many ways. Sakamoto still smokes more than a pack of cigarettes a day. Takahashi, a 93–year–old resident, works under the sun but doesn’t see much need for sunblock or cream. His skin is still soft and Sakamoto is still physically fit enough to farm his fields daily. For all of its quarks and ordinary features, there is something researchers believe might be unique about Yuzuri Hara 一 the diet. The secret ingredient Unlike most Japanese regions, rice isn’t much of a staple in the Village of Long Life. Yazuri Hara residents enjoy a diet of satsumaimo, konyaku, satoimo, and imoji 一 all varieties of white and sweet potatoes. It’s a diet rich in diverse carbohydrates, each one a source of vital nutrients. However, these staples all share a compound that may be the key to the village’s nickname: starch. Having studied the local lifestyle extensively, town doctor Dr. Toyosuke Komori writes that the low–iron, vegetable diet could stimulate the production of an important substance. One of the most well-studied substances in skincare, to be exact: hyaluronic acid (HA). What is hyaluronic acid? Also known as hyaluronan, hyaluronic acid is a clear, gooey compound produced by our bodies. As a naturally-made substance, it plays a key role in eye, skin, and tissue health. Its powerful properties and versatility make it one of the most important ingredients in many leading skin care products. But while we find it often in creams and other topicals, Yazuri Hara locals may just have the perfect diet to boost its natural production. When Dr. Komori describes its effects, he doesn’t talk about the conditions he normally treats. In the Village of Long Life, the most fascinating medical conditions are the ones he almost never comes across locally. “I’ve never seen anyone suffer from skin cancer here,” he says. He describes a patient in her 90s as having “spotless skin”. These findings were partly what kicked off pharmaceutical research into hyaluronic acid in Japan. Japanese companies provided 1000 people with test supplements, and the results spoke for themselves. Our relationship to hyaluronic acid Of the 1000 people given hyaluronic acid in pill form, half reported having better eyesight and smoother skin. Many noted they were less fatigued too, indicating that the benefits aren’t only skin-deep. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration approved another hyaluronic acid product. This one was an injection, tested specifically for treating osteoarthritis. Sports medicine specialist and orthopedist, Dr. Irving Raphael, highlights what it could mean for treating joint pain. The injection was designed to coat joint surfaces in hyaluronic acid. As an elastic and natural lubricant, the body already uses it to lower friction and absorb shock in the joints. Like many pains associated with aging, it's the slowing production of HA we tend to feel over time. Hyaluronic acid and quality of life While further tests offer plenty of insights to orthopedics and physicians, medical researchers in these fields are still exploring its full effects. When it comes to skin health, though, dermatologists have been studying this incredible compound for decades. When it comes to providing a higher quality of life, skincare is where hyaluronic acid truly shines. Supplements and beauty products have been developed to get maximum benefits when applied directly to the skin. Crucially, hyaluronic acid is a major component of the skin. Half of all the hyaluronan in our bodies is stored there. But what health and wellness benefits does it offer specifically? Supple, glowing skin Like collagen, hyaluronic acid is responsible for giving the tissue cells structure and elasticity. At a molecular level, this keeps tissue stretchy and strong enough to withstand the natural forces of moving. When we take a step back, the result is supple, plump skin with a healthy glow. While Tadanao Takahashi might provide an outlier example of these effects in action, sunscreen is still recommended. Hyaluronic acid production slows down with age, but UV radiation can accelerate the aging process prematurely. Anti-aging properties Hyaluronan also plays a major role in reducing visible signs of premature aging. It's amazing at retaining moisture in the skin, giving the surface that full, plump appearance. This can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Wound repair Despite being stored throughout the body, hyaluronic acid concentrates on damaged areas. Damage sites on the skin contain higher levels of the compound, which is key to effective wound healing. Hyaluronic acid reduces inflammation around the area, boosting circulation in the area for speedy repair. Its antibacterial properties help to ward off infection on the wound itself, and the overall effect reduces pain throughout the area. By promoting all of these cell functions when they’re needed most, hyaluronic acid is vital for better healing. Even with nothing to repair, the elasticity it offers our cells helps them withstand damage proactively. Supplement your skincare with the right hyaluronic acid cream Moisture retention isn’t just good for smoothing wrinkles, either. The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, loses water quicker in winter. The drier, colder climate “leech” moisture from the surface, drying out skin faster than normal. Without enough moisture, cell functions slow down. HA, like the one found in our Hygieia Hyaluronic Acid Face Cream, revitalizes your skin and restores its natural moisture barrier. Nourishing and packed with essential ingredients, it’s the perfect vegan product to add to your daily skincare routine.
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How to Detox Your Skin with Foods You Already Eat
Vitamins and minerals play a huge role in our lives. There’s a good reason why the benefits of healthy eating are so central to every part of the health industry. Of course, those benefits have so much potential that they extend to beauty too. Alongside hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C is probably the most loved ingredient in skincare products. When applied as a topical, it does a great job of nourishing the skin directly and supporting its natural functions. But what about the nutrients in the foods we eat? Specifically, what role does food play in detox and skin health? What is detoxing exactly? Detoxing has been around longer than most hotly debated topics in health, wellness, and beauty discussions. While it’s a well-studied medical and biological process, its place in skincare isn’t as established. Simply put, detox, or detoxification, is the process of removing toxins from the body. Despite its popularity in dietary circles, detox is a process our bodies evolved to do naturally. This is the first point we should make: we can only talk about detoxing if we’re specific about terms and functions. Much of the public discourse through the years has loosened some definitions. Dermatologists continue to push back against a lot of misinformation spread by trendy diets that weren’t always scientifically sound. These terms are really helpful when we’re looking at what we can do to remove toxins more effectively. Understanding the body’s detox process As a natural process, our bodies don’t need us to do much to begin detoxing. Like breathing and blinking, it's an automatic function that needs to happen whether we’re thinking about it or not. But skincare and health industries understand that we can either help or hinder these processes in the lifestyle choices we make. Detoxing, when done right, is about limiting the habits that make it harder for our bodies to do their jobs while providing the right fuel. While many diets start and end as fads, nutrition is one of the cornerstones of good health. This applies to skincare too. Detox in skincare Despite being the largest organ in the body, our skin isn’t the main mechanism for removing toxins. According to Dr. Fayne Frey, direct skin detox isn’t really a thing, medically speaking. That said, dermatologists agree on two facts that are essential to supporting skincare here. First, even though it doesn’t flush them the way our kidneys do, the skin is still exposed to many toxins. It’s the part of the body most vulnerable to environmental toxins like pollutants, dirt, and UV rays. That’s right, as far as the skin is concerned, sunlight is an environmental toxin. Photoaging caused by UV radiation is one of the main environmental stressors we deal with in skincare. Second, dermatologists agree that the best way to detox is to simply make sure our bodies are healthy enough to do it well. What it really means to detox your skin Let’s quickly look at photoaging again. The skin keeps environmental toxins from entering our bodies, but that’s also why it can’t “flush” them out. It’s more of a natural barrier than a filter. However, UV radiation stimulates a reaction in our skin cells that produce free radicals. These highly reactive molecules create oxidative stress that can damage other healthy cells. Luckily, our bodies developed a way to deal with these toxins specifically: antioxidants. These compounds neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and restoring balance in cell production. The antioxidants in certain foods are exactly why they’re so important to health and skincare. In many ways, they’re the best way to directly support the removal of toxins from the skin. Environmental toxins, the ones that mostly concern the skin, can also cause irritation and inflammation on the outermost layer 一 the epidermis. Antioxidant-rich foods with anti-inflammatory properties are the closest things to “superfoods” in skincare. So the question remains: which foods should you add to your diet to help combat toxins? Better yet, could you already be eating some? Foods that support detox functions Foods are a diverse source of fuel. The right balance can provide us with all the essential nutrients we need to promote healthy functions. When it comes to removing toxins from the body, you need to look for certain nutrients specifically. There are the best foods to find them in. Dark chocolate That’s right, chocolate isn’t just a guilty pleasure, certain ones can have health benefits too. Dark chocolate is more nutritious than normal chocolate bars because of the lower sugar content. The cocoa in chocolate can have up to 15 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces. That’s more than blueberries by weight. Berries That said, berries are nutrient-rich staples of any healthy diet. Blueberries and goji berries are packed with essential antioxidants. Strawberries are too, while also being a great source of that all-important vitamin C. Add raspberries to the mix and there’s enough variety in this group for every palette! Dark leafy greens (and red ones too!) Kale, cabbage, and spinach are some of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available anywhere. Kale and cabbage’s high vitamin A, K, and C content give them that much more as antioxidant sources. Spinach nourishes the body with two antioxidants that help protect the eyes from UV damage too: lutein and zeaxanthin. While we love all three as dark leafy greens, their red varieties are even richer in antioxidants. Pecans With up to 10.6 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces, pecans give our antioxidant levels the perfect boost. They’re also a great source of healthy fats and can help reduce cholesterol in the blood. That said, their high-fat content means its best to eat them in moderation for the best results. Beans While legumes are excellent parts of a healthy diet in general, beans stand out as a rich source of antioxidants. Pinto beans and edamame are particular favorites for detoxing. For an even easier substitute, soybean oil is a great way to boost antioxidants in general cooking. Skin detox means supporting your body’s natural functions Our bodies are pretty adept at looking after themselves, but they need a little help for optimal performance. You may have some of these foods in your diet already. You may be considering adding a few more. In either case, your body and your skin will thank you!
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The Effects of Salt Water on the Health of Your Skin
The idea of putting more salt in our bodies is frowned upon in many health sectors, but what about putting it on our bodies? Salt is one of the most important minerals in modern society. Indeed, ancient civilizations knew about its many properties and made great use of them too. According to Snehal Amin, MD, FAAD, Amin 一 ancient Egyptians used it to cleanse and disinfect the skin. But, as with all things skincare, much of the story lays beneath the surface. Is saltwater good for the skin? The general rule with any skincare ingredient is this: the stronger a compound is, the more specific we have to be about its application. Just look at Vitamin C. It’s one of the most popular ingredients in beauty products, and for good reason. It’s nutrient-rich, moisturizing, and supports healthy cell function. And yet, when used in topicals, our skin can only absorb it at a concentration of 20–30%. Any higher and the absorption rate drops. So what about salt? What the experts say about saltwater and skincare A 2018 study in the International Journal of Biometeorology investigated the relationship between saltwater and skin. Researchers found that sodium-rich water could act as a therapeutic agent when applied topically. According to the study: “When topically administered, this water-rich in sodium and chloride penetrates the skin where it is able to modify cellular osmotic pressure and stimulate nerve receptors in the skin via cell membrane ion channels known as “Piezo” proteins.” Dr. Adam Sheridan of the Australasian College of Dermatologists discussed a similar effect with seawater. However, he provides an important caveat about its role in skincare: “[Salt water] is hydrating up to a certain point, so if you go for a relatively short swim it’s good for you, but it will be dehydrating if you get in there too long,“ Medical researchers and dermatologists agree: saltwater can be beneficial, but only in moderation, and only at the right concentration. Sea salt vs table salt: what’s the difference for skincare? Dr. Sheridan’s seawater example brings up another important point. Not all salt is good salt, at least when it comes to your skin. Salt from ocean water is usually considered healthier than table salt. It’s less processed, contains trace minerals like potassium and calcium, and the salt granules tend to be larger. The last point is the only one we need to focus on here. When it comes to skincare, salt is a mechanical exfoliant. It works like a sugar or coffee scrub, removing dead cells through physical motion, not a chemical reaction. Crucially, it’s water-soluble. This means the granules meltdown before they become too abrasive, Potential benefits of saltwater on the health of your skin When done safely, saltwater can be a fun, homemade treatment to cleanse the skin. But what benefits should you look out for most? Exfoliation As mentioned, salt is a great mechanical exfoliant, but any saltwater solution should be made with care. As a general rule, don’t use more than a teaspoon of salt per 2 cups of boiled water for your solution. This will keep the concentration low enough to apply topically. Always give the mixture enough time to cool. The trace minerals in sea salt can provide extra nourishment for smooth skin. Still, the key when starting is moderation, especially for exfoliating an area as sensitive as the face. Detoxing For a full-body treatment, a saltwater bath is a great way to mimic the revitalizing effects of seawater, especially when there’s no beach nearby. Again, pay attention to salt concentration and how long your skin is exposed to any solution. If you add a one-third cup of salt 15-30 minutes in a warm bath is all you need for a relaxing, detoxifying soak. While Epsom salt is considered the go-to for detoxing, the minerals in sea salt and seawater generally) can be beneficial too. Salt baths detoxify the skin through reverse osmosis. Sulfates in the salt flush heavy metals and toxins. Don’t stay in the bath too long, and drink plenty of water before and after to keep your body hydrated throughout. Reduction in pore size That’s right, saltwater can reduce the appearance of pores. The solution tightens the skin while flushing oils and toxins that clog pores and make them more visible. The result: clear and smooth skin. This may be particularly valuable to people with acne-prone or oily skin. That said, this is not an acne treatment. Your two most important guides are your skin’s reaction and the advice of your dermatologist. Things to keep in mind about saltwater in skincare As exciting as the potential benefits are, there are some considerations you should be aware of. Salt, as a mineral, is harsh on the skin in high concentrations. Even in a salt bath, it’s only nourishing for the first 20-40 minutes or so. Beyond that, it starts to actively dry out the skin. If you’re unsure about how your skin might react, speak to a professional dermatologist before trying a salt treatment. Use salt sparingly in your solution, at least in the beginning. You can always work your way up, but don’t exceed the recommended amounts. Even if you feel the positive effects, remember that saltwater shouldn’t be part of a daily skincare routine. A weekly salt bath is more than enough. When it comes to exfoliating, either with saltwater or salt scrub, give your skin ample time to recover between sessions. If you experience any of the following signs, stop applying it and contact your dermatologist: Inflammation Irritation Dryness or redness Itchy skin Overly tight skin Hyperpigmentation And don’t forget the most important rule in skincare 一 moisturize! Could saltwater be right for your skincare and health? Our skin has a delicate relationship with saltwater and salt in general. Even the sodium we eat can impact our appearance, so treat it with the respect it deserves. When you follow best practices, though, you put yourself in a position to see amazing results!
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How To Prevent Dry Skin This Summer
While we associate dry skin with cold winter weather, summer can be just as harsh on our sensitive bodies. Every season comes with unique environmental changes that we have to account for to stay healthy. These changes aren’t limited to the warming weather, either. Our bodies change alongside the seasons! In winter, the low humidity pulls moisture from exposed areas like the face. In summer, researchers found that the skin produces more sebum 一 a waxy natural oil that moisturizes and protects the skin. As the weather warms, pores and sensitivity increase. Even the skin’s pH balance changes, dropping slightly as temperatures rise. In short, a new season can turn a skincare routine upside down. So how does summer lead to dryness, exactly? More importantly, what can we do to protect and nourish our delicate skin? What causes dry skin in summer? While environmental changes affect how our skin regulates itself, the impact isn’t always external. As a society, our habits change with the weather too. Some of the things we enjoy in winter can dry and irritate the skin in warmer mounts. These are the main factors to look out for this coming summer. Sun damage Sun damage is one of the leading causes of visible aging in skincare. That includes creating a dried-out appearance. Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays damages skin cells through UV radiation. But not all UV light is equal. UVA is the one that creates oxidative stress, creating signs of premature aging on the skin’s surface. UVB is responsible for sunburn, inflammation, and irritation. As the days get longer, we become more social. Summer creates more opportunities for UV exposure. We need to adjust how we move through the outdoors to protect our skin as a result. Excessive sweating Our pores open up more in hotter weather, which is why they often appear larger in summer. This is to boost sweat and sebum production, important compounds that help keep us cool by removing excess heat. While sebum is naturally-produced, excessive sweating can strip the skin surface of natural oils. Without waxy compounds like sebum, the skin can’t lock in moisture effectively, which makes dry skin more likely. Even the way we clean off sweat can affect the skin’s ability to stay hydrated… Harsh chemicals Scrubbing our faces with powerful cleansers can make it feel like we’re removing all the dirt and sweat that comes with a summer day. In truth, these harsh chemicals strip moisture away in the same way sweat does. Without its protective barrier, the skin becomes more sensitive to irritants and, yes, drying out. Washing with excessively hot water can be just as harsh, although this is generally a winter problem. In summer, the big danger is the swimming pool! Chlorinated water can remove sebum oil. This often leads to what experts call swimmer’s xerosis, a condition that causes dry and itchy skin. Dehydration Finally, our bodies simply use up more water in hot environments. From boosting sweat and oil production to lowering our core temperature, we need water to regulate body heat. The problem comes when we don’t adjust our intake for summer. Dehydration strains every regulatory system in our bodies. In summer, that means dry skin and overheating 一 an uncomfortable combination. How to prevent dry skin this summer With our skin vulnerable to so many factors in summer, the question remains: how do we protect ourselves? How do we care for our skin and give it the deep nourishment it deserves? Let’s take a look. Use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid When it comes to preventing dry skin in summer, the first rule is to moisturize! Specifically, get a moisturizer that has hyaluronic acid as a key ingredient. In fact, it couldn’t be easier! Our encapsulated hyaluronic acid face and neck cream rejuvenate skin with the exact compounds it needs in summer. It’s paraben and cruelty-free, so it’s gentle on your face and the environment. Made with high-quality components, it’s the perfect product if you want to alleviate dry skin while reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Protect your skin from UV overexposure When it comes to sun damage, prevention is better 一 and simpler 一 than cure. Wear sun-protective clothing to create a strong barrier that shades your skin. The natural lignins in unbleached cotton absorb UV light. Lightweight satins and silks reflect the radiation away from the skin. Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you need to swap out your summer outfits for more layers. A wide-brimmed hat isn’t just a summer staple 一 it’s a stylish way to protect your face, neck, and shoulders outdoors! Be gentle when cleansing or exfoliating The goal of every cleansing routine should be to leave skin feeling fresh, soft, and clean, but not irritated. Opt for an exfoliant like lactic acid, which can clean pores without flushing your skin’s natural protective barrier. If you’re trying a new cleanser or exfoliant, start slow and see how your skin reacts. Exfoliating once every 7 days or so will clear your skin and give it enough time to recover between sessions. As you get more comfortable, you can start doing this more frequently, adjusting as needed. Whatever product you opt for, pay attention to the temperature of your water too. Hot water can irritate the skin during and after a cleansing routine, leaving it sensitive instead of nourished. Only cleanse with lukewarm water for the best effects. And remember 一 rub the skin with the pads of your fingers using a circular motion! Stay hydrated Drinking enough water sounds simple enough, but it’s a habit everyone should form, especially in summer. By keeping your body hydrated, you provide it with the moisture it needs for healthy cell function and glowing skin. The recommended daily intake will vary per person. Depending on where you are, you may want an extra glass to account for a hotter, drier climate. The most important thing is to pay attention to your body and respond accordingly. Preventing dry skin couldn’t be easier this summer Keeping your skin moisturized starts with understanding its needs and adjusting to meet them. Our Hygieia face cream with hyaluronic acid is your best skincare companion this summer. It doesn’t just restore smooth, supple skin on the surface, it’s deeply nourishing for that day-long glow!
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How Does Vitamin C Work on Your Skin?
Vitamin C is one of the few ingredients that can rival hyaluronic acid’s popularity in the beauty industry. Arguably, it’s more popular in healthcare overall. We know about its nutritional value, immune-boosting properties, and how it benefits our bodies in general. Our skin, however, has a unique relationship to Vitamin C. What is Vitamin C? Before we discuss any compound or ingredient, it always helps to define it first Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and recently 一 skincare serums. While it doesn’t occur naturally in beauty products, we’ve learned to harness its properties for our skin. Those properties are the subject of countless health studies. But what makes this nutrient different, and how does it work on our skin exactly? What is it used for in skincare? Vitamin C offers a wide range of skincare benefits, from fighting irritation and inflammation to evening skin tone. As potent as it is by itself, it also promotes other vital processes like collagen production and cell regeneration. How we consume Vitamin C plays the biggest role in the effects we see. Intake: oral Ingesting Vitamin C, either as a supplement or by eating nutrient-rich foods, is great for overall health. While our digestion system breaks down a lot of it before reaches our skin, our bodies can’t function properly without enough nutrients. As an immune-booster, Vitamin C helps combat viral and bacterial infections, which can inflame the skin. Studies suggest it can even help lower blood pressure in its acidic form. While it’s not the main cause of premature aging, high blood pressure restricts the flow of oxygen to the skin, with can trigger the signs. Skin dries faster when it doesn’t absorb enough oxygen, making wrinkles more prominent. Even a cupful of berries or orange slices supports healthy skin, along with hair, nails, and bones. Of course, there’s a more direct method. Intake: topical Topicals apply Vitamin C directly to the skin, usually in the form of a tincture or serum. Vitamin C Serums help focus the effects on problem areas. As a concentrate, a serum clings better to the surface, helping the skin absorb more nutrients before they can wash away. Since we’re focusing on Vitamin C’s relationship to skincare, most of the benefits listed below will come from topicals, not food. Skincare benefits of Vitamin C Hydration Most moisturizers don’t “add” water to the skin, they lock it in. Creams and lotions create a protective barrier that keeps moisture from evaporating on the surface. Vitamin C, on the other hand, sinks into the skin and hydrates from deeper layers. As a water-soluble acid, it has an easier time penetrating the surface layer of skin, the epidermis. Hyperpigmentation Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can wreak havoc on the skin. Sun exposure is one of the most common environmental stressors. If we don’t protect our skin, UV rays can lead to hyperpigmentation. Melanin, the hormone responsible for pigmentation, plays a vital role in protecting our skin from sun damage. While it's a natural shield against sun damage, UV overexposure can trigger an abnormal production of it in the skin. These concentrated “pockets” of melanin appear as uneven skin tones in the mirror. Vitamin C helps by reducing the presence of tyrosinase, a vital enzyme for melanin production. When applied over a short period, this faded dark spots without affecting normal levels of melanin. Brighten complexion Over longer periods, however, Vitamin C can slow down melanin production overall. While this can lead to a duller complexion in some people, it can brighten the skin in others. Note: less melanin means less protection from the sun. Using Vitamin C to brighten your complexion will make sunscreen a bigger part of your skincare routine. You’ll need to pay attention to exposure outdoors to avoid further damage. Collagen production Collagen, along with hyaluronic acid, is responsible for giving skin structure. Sun exposure and aging, in general, slow down collagen production over time, making the skin appear looser and deepening wrinkles. Vitamin C doesn’t just boost collagen synthesis, it’s impossible to produce collagen without it. Anti-inflammatory Prolonged exposure to sunlight creates free radicals in our skin. These are unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress, a process that can damage skin cells long after we’ve shaded ourselves from the sun. Nutrients like Vitamin C are the reason fruits are such powerful anti-inflammatories. Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, the molecules that “stabilize” free radicals and render them harmless. Topicals are more effective for eliminating free radicals in the skin, which are directly caused by sun damage. It’s one reason why so many sunscreens come with added Vitamin C. If your sunscreen has a cirtusy smell, check the ingredient’s label! Reducing dark circles As a powerful moisturizer, Vitamin C keeps the skin hydrated for longer. This creates the healthy, plump appearance we associate with youthful skin. The folds around our eyes are constantly creasing, so it's no surprise that wrinkles often form there first. Vitamin C serums can strengthen the eyelid dermis, keeping the skin elastic enough to avoid permanent lines. As the dermis thickens, it conceals the blood vessels around the eyes, reducing the appearance of dark circles. Generally, it can take up to 6 months to see the full effects, but the results are worth it! Risks Vitamin C is beneficial in healthy amounts, but too much of it at once can create unnecessary health problems. Our bodies can only process so much ascorbic acid in a day. We absorb between 70%-90% of Vitamin C in moderation (30-10 mg/day). At 1 g/day, the absorption rate drops below 50%. What we can’t absorb, we flush out, and for good reason. Too much Vitamin C in our system can lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, and, in extreme cases, kidney stones. That said, it’s safe to use in recommended amounts. If you want to make the most of Vitamin C for your skincare, remember to apply in moderation!
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