Skin Care
All About Azelaic Acid -- Benefits, Uses for Skin and Side Effects
You’ve likely heard of and used salicylic acid to treat acne and/or uneven skin tone. But, did you know salicylic acid has a natural twin known as azelaic acid? Keep reading to learn more about AA and its benefits, uses, and side effects. What Is Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid often found in grains like barley, rye, and wheat. You can also create azelaic acid in a lab using yeast. It can be applied to the skin to help improve tone, texture, acne, and rosacea. Research shows that azelaic acid has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, free-radical-scavenging, and exfoliating effects. This makes the acid extremely effective at reducing breakouts, signs of sun damage, swelling, redness, and much more. How Does Azelaic Acid Work? The acid works to decrease the presence of bacteria that leads to acne and inflammation. It also inhibits the release of cytokines on the top layers of the skin that lead to bumps, redness, and uneven skin tone. AA also works to lower the production of keratin, which helps to limit breakouts. Benefits of Azelaic Acid There are a number of benefits associated with the use of azelaic acid, including: Acne Reducing Powers Products that contain AA, like the Hygieia Dark Spot Diminisher, can help diminish the appearance of skin blemishes in many ways, including by killing the bacteria that clog pores and by decreasing inflammation. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid can even work on the toughest cystic acne. Improved Skin Tone and Reduced Redness Azelaic acid is a natural treatment for hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and uneven skin tone. AA is considered to be a natural keratolytic and comedolytic, which means that it helps regulate the normal growth of skin cells. As a natural rosacea reducer, AA decreases underlying causes of rosacea, including inflammation and visible blood vessels that cause redness. AA can also be used to lighten the skin, reduce the appearance of scars, and reverse other types of discoloration. Exfoliating Powers Similar to other topical acids, azelaic acid has exfoliating properties that help boost cell turnover and smooth the skin. Using azelaic acid can help decrease bumps and the appearance of oversized pores while also contributing to an even and smooth skin tone. Works to Reduce Signs of Aging and Fade Dark Spots Azelaic acid is also a powerful anti-aging tool because it works to fade visible skin imperfections. It makes skin appear more youthful and healthy by reducing inflammation, decreasing dark spots, and creating a more even skin tone. How to Use Azelaic Acid Azelaic acid is available over-the-counter and via prescription and often comes in cream or gel form. To use AA on your skin, follow these steps: Wash your skin with warm water and a gentle cleanser — avoid using astringents and strong soaps or exfoliants, which may increase irritation. Pat dry. Apply cream to the affected area. Let skin dry before applying other products, moisturizer, or makeup. If using twice daily, apply AA in the morning and night around the same times daily. Azelaic Acid Risks and Side Effects Similar to other strong skincare products, AA comes with some side effects, especially for people with sensitive skin. Potential side effects include: Dryness Peeling Skin burning Rash Redness and irritation To limit the side effects of AA, wear sunscreen on top of all products containing azelaic acid. Azelaic acid is a secret weapon in skincare and can produce amazing results. A few precautions should be taken before starting a skincare routine with azelaic acid in it, but other than that, you can kiss your acne, redness, and overall dull skin goodbye when you start using AA products.
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The Exfoliation Powers Of A Pumice Stone
If you’ve ever had a pedicure, you’ve likely experienced the exfoliating powers of the pumice stone. What if we told you that you can buy your own pumice stone to exfoliate, remove unwanted hairs, and keep your skin looking dewy and fresh—all from the comfort of your own home? Keep reading to learn how. What is a Pumice Stone? A pumice stone is a porous, abrasive stone that has been used for more than 2,000 years to remove dry, dead skin. Pumice stones are formed when lava and water mix together. As the lava cools down, it creates the pumice stone’s unique texture, making it the perfect exfoliator. Pumice Stone Benefits There are several benefits associated with pumice stones and skincare, including: Exfoliates the Skin Pumice stones have been proven to help remove hyperkeratotic tissue— excess or thickening skin on the outer layer. Pumice stones work to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin and calluses. They can also be used to treat skin corns and plantar warts. Removes Skin Stains Pumice stones can also cleanse the skin and remove stains without harsh chemicals. This is a great option for painters and people who get skin stains from hobbies and occupations. Removes Unwanted Hairs Pumice stones can also be used to remove unwanted and/or excess hairs. This isn’t recommended for sensitive areas, but it can be used to remove hair from the forearms, shins, and other areas with thicker skin. To use a pumice stone to remove unwanted hairs, use a stone with smaller holes, and make sure to soak it in warm water for about five minutes beforehand. How to Use a Pumice Stone For Skincare When using a pumice stone to exfoliate your skin, it’s important to stick to thick skin and calluses because the abrasive texture of the pumice stone can be too harsh on delicate areas like the face. Instead, focus on the soles of the feet, hands, elbows, knees, and other thick and rough patches on the skin. Here are the steps to take: Wet the area: Pumice stones work best on wet and/or soapy skin. Prep the area by soaking it in warm water for three to five minutes to make the dead skin cells easier to remove as well as increase the stone’s penetration. For areas that are especially rough, add gentle soap before you use the stone. You can also do this in the shower or bath. Gently exfoliate: Once your skin is prepped, it’s time to begin the exfoliation. Move the pumice stone in circular motions, and start with light pressure that you increase gradually until you see the excess skin is being removed. You will start to notice dead skin cells building up on the stone as they begin to be removed from the skin. Keep going until you achieve the desired smoothness. Dry the area: Once your exfoliation is finished, gently towel dry your skin. The area may be sensitive, so it’s important to not be too rough. Moisturize: This is an important step. Once your skin is dry, apply a thick layer of moisturizer to help seal the fresh skin and heal any micro abrasions that may have happened during the exfoliation. Clean your stone: To avoid bacteria and fungus from building up inside of the pumice stone, you must clean it after every use. Clean it with soap and water and a bristled brush. Allow it to dry completely and store it in a clean place until the next use. Taking care of your skin between using your pumice stone is very important for best results. Don’t forget to use lots of moisturizers and allow your stone to dry completely.
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Looking for the Perfect DIY Gift? How About Homemade Bath Bombs?
Is there anything better than a relaxing, soothing bath at the end of a long workday? Now, you can gift your loved ones with the gift of relaxation and skin moisture with homemade bath bombs— they make the perfect gift (to yourself or a loved one!) Keep reading to learn how to make homemade bath bombs! The best part is that bath bombs only take mere seconds to make— as long as you get your ingredients sorted and ready beforehand. Here's what you'll need: Baking Soda First and foremost, make sure you have alkalizing baking soda as it is necessary to work with the acidic citric acid and create that "fizz" we all love so much when dropping a baht bomb into water. Citric Acid This is the one ingredient you likely don't have already in your pantry, but it is available at your local grocery store. Citric acid is necessary for the fizzing reaction that allows you to feel like you are taking a champagne bath after dropping your bath bomb. Corn Starch/Arrowroot Corn starch provides the bath bomb with that silky, luxurious feeling we all look forward to when taking a bath. Arrowroot will also work but won't provide the same silkiness effect. Salt, Oil, and Liquid You will need some form of: Oil, like almond olive, olive oil, coconut oil, organ oil, etc. We recommend basic salt of Epsom salt. You can use just water or test out some with hazel to make your bath bombs even more soothing. Scents and Colors Now the fun part. You can use your favorite essential oils, dried herbs, or go for a scent-free option. Try combing lavender and rose oils for a relaxing bath bomb. You can also add some natural dyes to change the color of your bath bomb. Building Your DIY Bath Bomb You will need: 8 ounces of baking soda 4 ounces of citric acid 1/2 cup sea or Epsom salt 4 ounces of cornstarch 2 TBSP oil of choice 2 tsp with hazel or water 1 tsp vanilla or more water 30-45 drops of your favorite essential oils and/or powdered dried herbs Instructions Mix your oil of choice and essential oils with baking soda, stir well. Add your dry ingredients: salt, citric acid, corn starch, mix well. Add powdered herbs if you are using them. Add essential oils and slowly spritz with witch hazel. Mix well using your hands Repeat until the mixture holds together when squeezed and doesn't crumble. Add more/less with hazel until the consistency is achieved Quickly push the mixture into molds, greased muffin tins, or another greased container. Press in firmly and leave in place for 24-48 hours. Once dry, remove bath bombs and store in an airtight container or bag. Ta-da! You have successfully made an amazing and thoughtful DIY gift! Just don't forget to make some extras for your own self-care routine!
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5 Best Homemade Bath Recipes for that Much Needed Detox
Our bodies, quite like our minds, can get worn down by stress and overwork. Simply moving around a lot or having too many things to think about can affect our skin. Oh, and don’t get us started on the amount of chemicals we get exposed to in a day! Like us, our skin needs to take a break from time to time. A spa day is generally the perfect solution for stressed and dull skin, but unfortunately, not all of us have the time of day for such trips. Thankfully, some like-minded people had this genius idea of “taking the spa home” with them by infusing their baths with some easy-to-make natural detoxifying recipes! These baths’ benefits go far beyond soothing muscles— they are known for their ability to remove harmful toxins from our bodies! Homemade spa bath, here we come! Let’s dive into five of the best ones. The Clay Detox Bath For those whose lymphatic systems need an extra hand— and, in turn, get that much-needed super powerful detox. Sodium Bentonite clay is volcanic ash compressed over time. It is popular for being a magnet for toxins, attracting most heavy metal toxins and free radicals, so if you feel like your skin and your body needs a power detox, this is it! The Recipe ½ cup Bentonite Clay ½ cup Epsom Salt optional essential oils The Instructions Prepare a warm/hot bath in advance. Dissolve the Epsom salt into the bath and add in some essential oils if you so desire. Get a small jar of water and mix in the clay. Make sure not to use metal, as the clay will only stick to it! Once you dissolve all the clumps, you can do one of two things: Pour it into your bath. You can soak for around 20 minutes. For a more effective detox: while not in the bath, rub the clay mix all over your body (as with a skin mask) and then soak in the bath for as long as needed. Scrub the clay off after bathing. The Oxygen Detox Bath For those who have gone through a lot of crowded environments. We know Hydrogen Peroxide as a good companion for treating minor cuts and wounds, even canker sores, in small doses. But did you know that it can be your perfect spa partner, too? Its antibacterial and antiviral properties help wash away all the bacteria and toxins you could have collected during your daily social routines. The Recipe 2 cups Hydrogen Peroxide 1 tbsp dried ground ginger The Instructions Prepare a warm/hot bath in advance. Add in the Hydrogen Peroxide and ginger. Relax and get a good soak! Stay in the tub for at least 30 minutes or longer. The Mustard Detox Bath For those who are feeling feverish, have colds, and/or sore muscles. Surprised? Mustard is more than just a condiment! It used to be a traditional remedy in England used to treat the common cold, fevers, and sore muscles. Its properties help increase circulation, reducing those pesky toxins, leaving its users feeling better than when they got in! The Recipe ¼ cup Mustard Powder 1 cup Epsom Salt optional essential oils to stave off the mustard scent The Instructions Prepare a warm/hot bath in advance. Dissolve all ingredients in a jar mixed with a small amount of water (in case of excess for future use). Mix the desired amount to your bath and soak for around 15-30 minutes. The Salt Detox Bath For those who need the utmost hydration and relaxation. Epsom Salt has been used for over 400 years for injuries and skin rashes! Though it looks very similar to table salt, both are made of vastly different compounds. Epsom salt is made of magnesium and sulfate, as opposed to table salt’s sodium. When used in a bath, epsom salt can guarantee a relaxing and hydrating experience, even reducing anxiety and stress with a longer soak. Note that this is best done when you are home with someone, as you are likely to feel lightheaded afterwards. Perfect to be done before going to sleep. The Recipe ¼ cup Sea Salt ¼ cup Epsom Salt ¼ cup Baking Soda ⅓ cup Apple Cider Vinegar optional essential oils The Instructions Prepare a warm/hot bath in advance. Dissolve both salts and baking soda into a jar of boiling water. Set aside for a few minutes. Pour the vinegar into your tub. Finally, pour in your salt mixture into the tub. Soak for 30 minutes or more! Enjoy, you deserve it. The Vinegar Detox Bath For those who suffer from body odor, yeast infections, eczema, sunburn… and even dandruff! Apple Cider Vinegar is known for its unique flavor when used in cooking, but did you know it can be used as the top secret ingredient for your next spa bath? It is often used as a treatment for a variety of skin problems, such as eczema, because of its soothing antimicrobial properties. It also helps restore the natural pH level of your skin. The Recipe 1-2 cups of Apple Cider Vinegar (... that’s it!) The Instructions Prepare a warm/hot bath in advance. Soak for 20-30 minutes, rinse with a cool shower.
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Vitamin C Serums 101 - Everything You Need To Know
It seems as if vitamin C serums are everywhere these days. And, if you’re anything like us, you are feeling like you want to add a vitamin C serum into your skincare routine to experience all of the benefits. And for a good reason—vitamin C is touted as one of the top anti-aging ingredients available, and it’s revered as the key to maintaining a smooth, even, and bright complexion. In this post, we will go over everything you need to know about the serums, uses, and how to get your hands on a high-quality Vitamin C serum. What’s a Vitamin C Serum Anyway? A vitamin C serum is a skincare product that is packed with, you guessed it, vitamin C. The consistency is liquid or gel, and you can apply it directly to your skin. Benefits of Vitamin C Serums When you use a high-quality vitamin C serum, like our Hygieia Vitamin C serum, you will reap several benefits, including: Vitamin C is hydrating:Vitamin C has been shown to have a hydrating effect on the skin because it lowers transepidermal water loss, which allows your skin to retain moisture more effectively. Vitamin C is brightening: Vitamin C can help fade skin pigmentation and smooth the skin’s surface to reduce dull skin and give you a bright, youthful glow. Vitamin C reduces redness and evens skin tone: Vitamin C is also proven to treat a wide range of inflammatory skin conditions. It works to minimize redness and create a more even complexion. Vitamin C helps fade hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation, including sunspots, melanoma, and age spots, happens when melanin is overproduced in specific areas on the skin. It can also happen in spots where acne has healed. Vitamin C has been shown to impede melanin production,which can work to fade dark spots and create a more even-toned complexion. Vitamin C boosts collagen production: Vitamin C is well known for its collagen-boosting properties. Collagen is a protein that occurs naturally and depletes over time. Lower collagen levels lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C helps protect against sun damage: Free radicals cause sun damage by searching for other atoms they can steal electrons from, which leads to serious skin damage. Since vitamin C is high in antioxidants that protect healthy skin by giving the free radicals an electron, they become harmless, and your skin stays protected. Vitamin C boosts wound healing: From acne scars to sunburns, your Vitamin C serum can make your skin healthier overall, thanks to its healing properties. It has been proven to speed up overall wound healing. How to Use Vitamin C to Reap the Benefits The best part about a high-quality vitamin C serum is that you only need a few drops per day, so your investment will go a long way. We recommend applying your serum every morning. Store your serum in a cool, dark place away from heat. It’s best to keep your serum in your bathroom cupboard instead of out on the counter. Potential Risk of Vitamin C Serums Vitamin C is a typically well-tolerated ingredient. The only risk is if the serum you use contains an ingredient you are allergic to. The Hygieia Vitamin C Serum contains clean, natural ingredients that minimize the risk of an allergic reaction, including vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil. Experts also recommend being careful when applying the serum around your eyes. Vitamin C is a powerful, natural ingredient that has many benefits, from healing blemishes to reducing hyperpigmentation, all while providing you with an out-of-this-world glow. Consistency is key for maximum effect, so be sure to apply your vitamin C serum daily.
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How to Make a DIY Hypoallergenic Silk Lotion Bar With Tallow
Lotion bars are a really great tool to moisturize the skin. If you’re not familiar with lotion bars, they look like soap but are used on dry skin—similar to lotion. Lotion bars are safe for sensitive skin, and our recipe is even hypoallergenic. Let’s get started! What is Tallow? Our lotion bar recipe contains tallow, and you may be wondering why. Tallow is fat that is rendered from beef. Now, you really may be wondering why we are using it! Tallow has been proven to have significant skin benefits and has been used for centuries. Beef tallow is 50 percent saturated fat, 42 percent monounsaturated fat, and four percent polyunsaturated fat. Similarly, the structure of human cell membranes is made up of 50 percent saturated fats. Fatty acids are the building blocks of healthy skin cells, making them a key nutrient for skin repair and regeneration. Tallow also contains fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, for even more skin benefits. How to Make Tallow Lotion Bars Our hypoallergenic tallow lotion bar recipe takes less than 2o minutes to make. You will need: 1/3 cup beef tallow 1/3 cup shea butter or cocoa butter 2 TBSP beeswax 20+ drops of the essential oils of your choice (make sure you use skin-safe oils in proper ratios of dilution) To make the lotion bars: Combine all of the ingredients in the top part of a double boiler over a little bit of water. Turn your stove burner on and bring the water to a low simmer. Be sure to stir the ingredients constantly until they melt or become smooth. Remove pot from heat and mix in the essential oils. Transfer to molds to allow the bars to harden. Let lotion bars cool completely before you pop them out of their molds. Store your lotion bars in a cool, dry place for up to six months. To use: Hold the lotion bar in your hand and gently rub on dry skin. The heat from your skin will transfer some of the lotion bar onto your skin. Skin Benefits of Tallow We briefly mentioned why tallow is good for the skin, but let’s take a closer look now. Healthy Fats Create Healthy Skin Tallow contains the same fats or lipids that are found in healthy, supple human skin. Lipids are found abundantly in every cell membrane in the human body and are responsible for the free-flowing of liquids (moisture) inside and outside of our cells. Lipids are advantageous because they create a protective but permeable barrier that helps prevent infection while maintaining the skin’s moisture and flexibility. Tallow is also believed to prevent dryness at the cellular level without suffocating the barrier of the skin like petroleum-based lotion does. Promotes Youthful-Looking Skin As we mentioned, beef tallow is loaded with vitamins A, D, K and antioxidants. One of those antioxidants is vitamin E, which is known to promote skin rejuvenation by fighting the free radicals that cause wrinkles. Vitamin D has the ability to restore the skin’s vibrancy. Intense Moisturizer Tallow has been used for centuries upon centuries because it works. It is an intense moisturizer that helps the skin retain its natural moisture. It replenishes the skin’s building blocks that lower with age. Tallow is non-greasy, won’t clog the pores, is 100% natural, and long-lasting. It works to prevent dryness all day but only needs to be applied one time. If you are ready to start reaping the benefits of tallow and seeing your most beautiful, youthful skin yet, follow our recipe above. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out and share photos of your lotion bars with us!
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Understanding and Using Face Serums
If you’ve done everything to keep your skin healthy and beautiful but still need that extra step up in your skincare routine, you may want to consider a face serum. These serums are specifically made to protect and hydrate the skin of the face in between your cleansing and moisturizing routine. There are many different types of serums you can use to help your skin stay healthy and hydrated; here’s a guide to understanding and using the serum that you think is best for you. What Are Serums? A serum is a product with a thin and often smooth viscosity and texture which possess concentrated but powerful doses of active ingredients. Ingredients are more concentrated in serums because a larger dose of these ingredients can more easily penetrate skin and make a larger and more lasting impact on the skin. The larger concentration also means that less time must pass before results are seen by those using the serums of their choice. While moisturizers and face creams also works to keep skin healthy and food, adding a specifically designed face serum to the equation can improve results and protect skin from irritants and damage. Research suggests that those using a serum should layer it on top of their existing skincare routine. Serums often make the difference for those treating intense and specific skin issues like discoloration, dullness, fine lines, and acne. Benefits of a Great Face Serum When you find and use a serum which is designed to treat your key area, the benefits and impact are almost immediately visible. The serum will absorb into the skin quickly, making results more intense and quicker than an ordinary face cream. This is because serums often have incredibly thin viscosities. The serum will also soothe sensitive skin and protect against damage from common dirt and sun exposure. These protections can also extend to acne resistance and oil prevention. Serums will also stop fine lines and wrinkles from becoming visible as well as protect from free radicals and other damaging factors. Serums do this because they’re filled with active ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and green tea. Finally, serums are lighter on the skin and will often be more impactful more quickly. Types of Face Serums There are many different types and categories which face serums can fall into, such as anti-aging, hydrating, free-radical fighting, and acne reducing to name a few. All of these serums have different active ingredients and are used by different individuals looking for different, but often specific, results. The type of serum you should look for is entirely dependent on what you want out of the serum, although there are some types which are generally the most popular. Here are some popular serum types, what they do, and how they work. Anti-Aging Serums Serums designed to reduce aging are made with the thought of skin renewal and increased collagen production. The active ingredients of this serum are often retinol, bakuchiol, or both. The function and design of the serums is self-explanatory. Individuals looking to appear younger apply the serums to their skin every few days in order to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other fine lines. These serums are also designed to smooth and strengthen skin. Hydrating Serums Serums which are specifically meant to hydrate and moisturize the skin are common. These serums contain a high dose of hyaluronic acid, a molecule which helps bind water in the skin. This makes skin look fresh, plump, and younger without energy or much time in between. Younger people, like kids and teenagers, make plenty of hyaluronic acid, but adults have a tougher time producing the molecule in an efficient and productive manner, which is why adult skin dries out easier and more frequently than their younger counterparts. Hydrating serums also come with the benefit of reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within the skin. Free-Radical Fighting Antioxidants are incredibly important for fighting free radicals and providing a litany of other benefits to the skin and body. Serums designed to fight free radicals are chock full of antioxidants, like vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, as well as resveratrol. Free radicals damage skin in a number of ways, such as drying it out and making it look older and less healthy than it should. Diet and exercise are actually great ways of providing your body with plenty of antioxidants, but serums can help speed up the process and provide your body with an additional source of free-radical resistance. Best Serums to Purchase Serums can be bought from all over the internet, but it can be difficult to tell their quality and effectiveness. For guaranteed results and impact, consider shopping Hygieia. Hygieia has three serums all designed to target different skin issues and keep you feeling healthy and refreshed. Their hyaluronic acid serum will keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. It’s made with amino acids to help moisturize and hydrate at a deep level, quickly and easily. Their retinol formula is designed to combat fine lines and keep skin healthier and younger for longer, preventing, and correcting discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles. Finally, their vitamin C serum is specifically designed to increase collagen production, which does wonders to protect against sun damage and other irritants on the skin. Hygieia serums are made with quality in mind and have been tested thoroughly, so you know you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
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DIY Herbal Hair Rinse For Shiny, Stronger Hair
Take a walk down the hair care aisle and you’ll see dozens of products that promise long, thick, shiny, strong hair. They make it seem like getting Disney princess hair is just that simple, if you’re willing to pay the steep price. Many of these “miracle” products cost far more than you might think without actually doing anything. What a waste! However, with the right all-natural ingredients, you can achieve your hair goals and have Instagram-worthy hair. All it takes is herbs. The Herbs Combining herbs isn’t just for cooking. Mixing together the right herbs in this easy-to-make rinse can have a huge impact on your hair and scalp health. You’ll enjoy less inflammation on your skin, stronger strands, and an overall healthy, shiny head of hair that everyone will notice. It starts with these ingredients. Horsetail A lesser-known herb, Horsetail has some serious power. To start, it’s high in silica, not to be confused with the silicone that many over-the-counter products include. While that silicone mimics the effects of silica, it’s a poser. It’s actually just coating the hair without actually helping it long-term. Instead, the silica in horsetail will strengthen your strands from the inside out. And it’s not a temporary fix - this will be long-term improvement. Because horsetail is slightly astringent, it’s also a great ingredient for those with an oily scalp. To top it off, horsetail is packed with vitamins and minerals, including: Calcium Magnesium Bioflavonoids Chromium Potassium Copper Iron Lavender Known worldwide for its ability to calm and soothe your mind, lavender is also a powerful hair-care ingredient. It can calm inflammation in the scalp just like it calms your mind after a stressful day. Say goodbye to skin irritation, itchiness, and flakes - lavender is here to ease it away. Additionally, lavender has shown to be effective at increasing your circulation which can improve your hair growth. If you’re trying to grow out your luscious mane, including lavender in your hair-care routine is the way to go. Rosemary Delicious on chicken and great for your hair, rosemary is one herb you should free from the kitchen. Like lavender, it can improve your circulation and therefore, your hair growth. It combines that with the slightly astringent properties of horsetail, making it a valuable herb to include, especially for those with an oily scalp. Aside from helping regulate the oil on your scalp, the astringent nature of rosemary can even help strengthen your hair follicles, preventing hair loss. Nettle For a scalp-nourishing boost, include nettle in your hair rinse. The best part about nettle is that it can improve the health of your scalp overall. While it does that, it will also naturally strengthen your hair. And the best part: your hair will be more vibrant, giving your whole aesthetic a little oomph. The secret behind nettle is how many vitamins and minerals it contains. Nettle has enough vitamins to serious improve your overall hair health, including: Vitamin A carotenoids Vitamin B Vitamin C Vitamin D Vitamin K Calcium Magnesium Boron Chromium Silica Basil Another common kitchen ingredient, basil is far more than just a garnish. Basil feeds and nourishes your scalp, removing toxins and heavy metals to promote hair health and growth. By adding basil, you’re adding a sort of superfood to your hair rinse. Basil’s key nutrients are the reason for the health boost: Vitamin A Vitamin C Flavonoids Polyphenolic Acids Ready to mix up your magical, miracle DIY hair rinse? Check out the recipe below. DIY Hair Rinse Ingredients 1/4 cup Nettle Leaf 1/4 cup Horsetail 3 Tbsp Dried Basil 4 Tbsp Dried Lavender 3 Tbsp Dried Rosemary 3 to 3-1/2 cups Apple Cider Vinegar Instructions Add your herbs to a quart-sized glass jar with a lid. Place the lid on the jar and shake it to mix. You can also stir it with a spoon. Fill the jar with apple cider vinegar until it’s 1-inch from the top. Close the lid on the jar tightly and shake it vigorously. Keep the rinse in a cool, dark location for 2 to 4 weeks, shaking it once every day or so. After the first few days, you’ll notice the herbs have absorbed some of the vinegar. When the liquid level drops, refill the glass with apple cider vinegar to the 1-inch from the top. After the 2 to 4 weeks, pour the mixture through a strainer to catch the remaining herbs. You can use a cheesecloth or very clean fabric from an old tee shirt. You can also try a coffee filter or a sieve. Store the liquid you’ve drained in a clean glass jar. To Use: Clean your hair thoroughly, then mix equal parts of the prepared rinse and regular water together in an empty mason jar or container. Use 1/4-cup of each for short hair, 1/2-cup of each for shoulder-length hair, and more for longer hair. Tip your head back and pour the rinse slowly over your head and through your hair. As you pour, tip your head from side to side and work your fingers through your hair. This will help the rinse to reach all areas of your hair and scalp. Leave the rinse in or wash it out briefly with water. Tips: Use the rinse one time per week or even every day per your preference. You can use the rinse between shampoos or in place of shampooing. Don’t mix the rinse with water until you’re ready to use as it will reduce the shelf life.
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DIY Guide to Making Rose Water
There’s nothing that says luxury like taking a bath in rose water. But, did you know you can make it from home and feel like royalty whenever you please? Let’s find out how. What is Rose Water? Rose water is made by distilling rose petals with steam. Due to its lovely fragrance, rose water is often used as a natural alternative to perfumes. People have been using rose water for centuries in beauty products as well as food and drink products. Simmering Versus Distilling The fastest and most simple way to make rose water is by simmering dried or fresh rose petals in water. The result is rose-colored, fragrant water. Distilling rose water technically turns it into hydrosol. This method is also quite easy, though it takes a bit more time than simmering does. The distilled rose water (hydrosol) will be clear and have a much longer shelf-life than the simmered rosewater. Pick Your Petals Did you know that there are more than one hundred varieties of roses? And, you can use any kind to make rose water. If you’re picking your blooms, pick them early in the morning when the blossoms are the most fragrant. If you are purchasing your roses, make sure you buy them from an organic source that doesn’t use pesticides— you don’t want your rose water to be chock full of chemicals! Rose Water Uses As we mentioned, people have been using rose water for centuries— and for a wide range of uses, including: Perfume spray: This allows people to use a chemical-free spray that has the same beautiful effects as perfume without the harsh additives and chemicals. To make perfume spray: Mix one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract with essential oils of your choice in a glass spray bottle. Then, fill the bottle to the top with your rose water. Spray on hair or skin for a beautiful, refreshing scent. Skin care: Rose water helps balance the skin’s PH, in addition to reducing redness and irritation, tightening pores, and helping to cool and soothe hot skin. To make a rose water facial toner: Keep your rose water in a dark colored bottle. Add one or two drops of lavender or rose essential oil and apply to your face with a cotton ball after showering or washing your face. To use rose water for sunburn relief: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and rose water in a spray bottle. Spray over irritated, sunburned skin for fast relief. Mood improvement: Rose water also happens to have mood-boosting effects. You can either mist it on yourself and breathe in the mist or spray the area you’re in and enjoy the mood boost. Or, dump one to two cups of rose water in your bath water for a calming bath. In the kitchen: You can add rose water to herbal teas, yogurts, lemonades and drinks, and even makerose water cake— a traditional and delectable Middle Eastern dessert. How to Make Rose Water Now let’s go over, step-by-step, how to make rose water. To simmer rose water: Combine rose petals and water in a small saucepan. Cover the pan and allow the water to come to a boil. Lower the temperature as low as it can go that still lets the water simmer. Simmer until the rose petals’ color has faded— about 5-15 minutes. Leave the lid on the saucepan and cool completely. Pour the water and petals into a dark bottle through a cheesecloth. You can also use a funnel to pour your rose water into the bottle if you don’t have a cheesecloth. Store your creation in the fridge for several weeks or un-chilled for up to one week. To distill rosewater: Place a clean construction brick in the middle of a large stock pot. Set a metal or heat-safe glass bowl on top of the brick. Sprinkle rose petals around the brick— make sure none fall into the bowl. Pour water into the pot over the rose petals until the water reaches near the top of the brick. Flip the stockpot's lid and cover the stock pot with the lid to allow the steam to collect and drip into the bowl. Place ice on top of the lid to encourage condensation and dripping into the bowl. Bring rose water to a boil. Reduce to the lowest heat setting that still lets the rose water simmer. Simmer for at least half an hour. Replace the ice as it melts. Remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool completely. Lift the lid carefully, so no melted water falls into the pot. Carefully pour the rosewater that has been collected in the bowl into your bottle. This can last up to six months un-chilled, and if stored in the fridge, it will last even longer. We hope this post can guide you to creating delightful rose water of your own. Good luck and enjoy!
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