Skin Care
How to Naturally Shrink Your Pores
Pores: those pesky holes on the skin that can take away from a #flawless appearance. It seems there are hundreds of “pore minimizing” products on the market these days. But, did you know there are also some natural ways to shrink pores? Let’s explore. What are Pores? Pores create a lot of things, from sweat to pimples and blackheads. But, when we talk about reducing the size of pores, we’re talking about the sebaceous glands and not the sweat glands. The skin pores (aka sebaceous glands) are responsible for making sebum, which helps moisturize skin and keep it smooth and supple. There are several factors that go into pores appearing large. What Causes Pores to Enlarge? Many factors, from race to age and overall health play a role in the size of our pores. Race Studies show that Chinese and Japanese women have much lower pore density (about 5-8 times less pore density than other ethnic groups). Indian and Brazilian women have the most noticeable pores, according to studies. Caucasian women are slightly behind Indian women, and Asian women by far have the least noticeable pores. Age There’s a common misconception that pores get bigger as we age. Though pore density can vary with age, these differences are usually insignificant. Ethnicity and genetics play a much more prominent role in pore size than age does. But, skin damage can make pores more visible, and skin damage does increase with age. A 2017 study found that while women’s pores don’t grow in size or number as they age, the shape of the pores changes from round to oval. Hormone Imbalances Hormones control a wide range of bodily functions, including fertility, growth, and skin changes. As we get older and our estrogen decreases, we experience more skin damage and thinning because as the epidermal layer gets thinner, dead skin cells stick around longer. Hormone imbalances affect women of all ages and can contribute to early signs of aging, acne, and other skin issues that make pores easier to notice. Another hormone, IGF-1, is vital for a healthy body. But, like most things in life, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Too much IGF-1 has been linked to a higher risk of cancer, shorter lifespan, and other serious complications, including pores. A 2010 study found that too much IGF-1 can cause facial pores to appear more noticeable. How to Shrink Pores Naturally Now let’s talk about ways to diminish the appearance of facial pores naturally by following these steps: Clear out your pores Boost collagen, elastin, and cell turnover. Improve your skin from the inside out with a healthy diet and balancing hormones The following remedies can help you achieve the above-mentioned keys to unlocking smooth skin and keep pores at bay. Detox Your Pores with a Mask As our pores become clogged with gunk, they appear larger. Our skin plays a key role in eliminating toxins, so it’s vital to keep pores clear and open. Buy or make a homemade mask that contains bentonite clay, rhassoul clay, or charcoal to pull impurities from your skin. Egg White Face Mask Did you know that proteins found in egg whites can help tighten and plump the skin to reduce the appearance of pores? Here’s what you’ll need: Whisk one egg white until it’s smooth. Apply the foamy egg white to your face, and let it soak in for about 15 minutes. Gently wash the egg white off your face. Papaya Face Mask Papaya contains papain, a naturally occurring enzyme that is great for the skin. It helps exfoliate dead skin, repair skin and reduces wrinkles. To make your papaya face mask: Mash papaya and apply it to the face. You can combine it with yogurt and honey if you’d like or apply it plain. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse the mask off. Facial Steam A facial steam is another excellent tool in your fight against pores. It works by clearing the congestion on your skin, allowing it to breathe, and clear out dirt and impurities in the pores. The steam also gently opens pores. Herbs can further help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. Here’s what we recommend adding to your next pore cleansing facial steam: Rose Yarrow Witch hazel Green tea Black tea Apple Cider Vinegar ACV has many skin benefits, including toning the skin and reducing the appearance of pores. This works best when ACV is used as a toner. To do so: Dilute ACV with water Apply the mixture to a cotton ball and swab your face We hope this guide helps you achieve beautiful, healthy skin and shrink your pores. To browse our line of skincare products to help you achieve your healthier skin, click here.
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DIY Rose Bath Melts To Treat Yourself Like Royalty
Is there anything better than a relaxing hot bath at the end of a stressful day? Yes, there actually is! A relaxing hot bath with rose bath melts to help met your stress and worries away. Unlike bath bombs, bath melts are filled with rich oils to nourish and moisturize skin. What are Rose Bath Melts? Bath melts are rich in emollient oils that melt in the tub allowing your skin to absorb their moisturizing properties. You can think of bath melts as the grown-up bath bomb. The best part is, you can make your own! Here’s what you’ll need: Shea Butter Shea butter is great for the skin and helps boost collagen production while also fighting wrinkles and inflammation. Coconut Oil Coconut oil has tons of uses, from the kitchen to the bathroom. It also happens to be the perfect ingredient to add to your rose bath melts. As an antioxidant, coconut oil is actually the highest source of lauric acid after breastmilk. Coconut oil is also antimicrobial, helps the skin heal faster, and may also even help fight cellulite. Rose Geranium Essential Oil You can’t make your rose math belts without roses! Unfortunately, it would take about 10,000 pounds of roses to produce one pound of pure rose essential oil. That means the pure rose essential oil does not come cheap— running upwards of $1,000/ounce. The good news is, you can use rose geranium essential oil for a rosy scent at a fraction of the cost. If you can’t get your hands on rose geranium, you can substitute it with Egyptian or bourbon geranium. Rose geranium helps improve dull and dry skin while also helping with acne and cellulite. Kaolin Rose Clay This clay is a pretty rosy pink thanks to naturally occurring iron oxides— making it the perfect ingredient to put in your rose bath melts. Rose kaolin clay is a fine consistency— allowing it to blend smoothly into skincare products. Rose Infused Oil We already mentioned that rose essential oil is hard to come by and expensive, but there’s a much cheaper way to get your roses in your bath melts. You can infuse rose petals in the coconut oil you add to the bath melts to help harness the rose’s beneficial properties. Roses are full of antioxidants, calm and soothe skin, are mood-busting, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Rose-infused coconut oil makes a wonderful addition to your bath melts. Now, let’s move on to assembling your rose bath melts. Equipment: Pot Silicone mold Small bowl Ingredients: 2/3 cup of virgin coconut oil 1/4 cup of unrefined cocoa butter 2 TBSP of shea butter 3 TBSP of dried rose petals 1 TSP of rose kaolin clay 30-35 drops of rose geranium essential oil Instructions: In a small bowl, combine the coconut oil, shea, and cocoa butters. Put the bowl on top of a pot that is filled halfway with water in order to create a double boiler. Heat and stir occasionally until the butters melt completely. Immediately it from the heat and whisk in the essential oil and rose clay. Sprinkle a few rose petals on the bottom of each silicone mold. Pour the oil mixture into the molds and transfer them to your freezer. Wait 30 minutes Now the bath melts should be firm enough to remove from their molds. Instructions for use: Put a bath melt in a tub of hot water, soaking for at least 15 minutes. Instructions for storage: Keep melts away from heat and direct sunlight. When stored properly, your rose bath melts should last at least one year. We hope you enjoy the stress-relieving and moisture-boosting properties of your new rose bath melts!
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Ylang Ylang Oil and its Benefits for Skincare
Ylang Ylang is a yellow, star-shaped flower that is native to countries surrounding the Indian Ocean, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and parts of Australia. The ylang ylang flower is used to make many different kinds of essential oil, and is commonly used to add fragrance to perfumes. In addition to scent, ylang ylang oil is also commonly used for its aromatherapy properties that lead to stress relief. But, it is also a secret ingredient in the skincare world. Ylang Ylang Oil Skincare Benefits When you choose a powerful night cream that contains ylang ylang oil, like the Hygieia Night Cream, your skin will reap many benefits, including: Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that support balanced oil production in the skin. This makes ylang ylang an effective treatment for acne and blemishes. The anti-inflammatory properties also allow it to target any inflammatory conditions in the skin, reduce the size and appearance of pores, and kill bacteria. These properties also lead to reduced skin redness and any swelling caused by acne. Ylang ylang oil stimulates the growth of new cells, which helps it smooth and reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Ylang ylang oil nourishes dry skin thanks to its hydrating properties, and its antiseptic properties may help heal the cuts and cracks that dry skin leaves behind. Absorbing ylang ylang oil through the skin can also reduce stress When inhaling the ylang ylang oil, it helps induce a sense of calm. Other benefits of ylang ylang oil include: Reduces anxiety: The linalool found in ylang ylang is known to have anxiety-reducing properties that both lower anxiety and boost feelings of wellness and serenity. It even contains antidepressant components and helps with insomnia and tension. Reduces blood pressure: A 2013 study found that ylang ylang oil may considerably lower blood pressure and may even alleviate palpitations and lower stress hormone cortisol levels. When stress is lowered, blood pressure will drop. Combats fungal infection: The linalool, germacrene-D, and geranyl acetate found in ylang ylang oil are known to have antifungal properties that fight back against any attack of fungal infection on the skin. What Skin Types Respond Best to Ylang Ylang Oil? Ylang ylang oil can be used on most skin types, including combination, dry, dehydrated, and oily skin types. The oil is especially effective for aging skin and skin with enlarged pores. Its antibacterial properties also make it a powerful tool for fighting acne and pimples. Should Any Skin Types Avoid Ylang Ylang Oil? Every skin is different, so it’s hard to give a clear-cut answer for this one. But, some people find essential oils aggravate their sensitive skin. For that reason, people with extremely sensitive skin may want to start with a tiny amount of ylang ylang oil to see how their skin will react and build up from there. Some experts recommend pregnant women and people with low blood pressure avoid ylang ylang oil. How Can I Apply Ylang Ylang Oil to my Skin? Some creams contain ylang ylang oil— this is the best way to use ylang ylang oil for the skin because the amount is regulated and safe. It’s best to combine ylang ylang oil with moisturizer to make the most of its benefits. Ylang ylang oil is chock-full of benefits and should be a key ingredient in your skincare routine for healthy, happy, and nourished skin.
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The Many Benefits of Calendula Oil For Your Skin
The Calendula flower, (aka pot marigold), is a beautiful bright flower that gets its name from the Latin word kalendae, which means new moon or the first day of every month. The bright yellow and orange perennial is believed to only bloom on the first of the month. Calendula holds many medicinal properties. However, the Calendula flower can do amazing wonders on your skin!The root of majority of skin break outs and conditions such as rosacea, eczema, and acne stem from inflammation. Calendula holds anti-inflammatory and soothing properties in its dosages of flavonoid, saponins, and triterpenoids. These work together to stop the body’s release of histamines. Histamine is a chemical created internally and released by white blood cells into the blood cells when the immune system is defending the body against a potential threat. The release of histamine can cause redness, pain, allergies, and inflammation. Calendula not only fights and prevents inflammation, but is also safe to use with other anti-acne ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.Calendula also contains essential fatty acids, like linoleic acid, that nourish the skin. They give skin cells the ability to absorb nutrients and hold onto water longer. On the external surface, this will give the appearance of supple, nourished, smoother skin. Calendula is also very flexible in that there are studies that support it can be used as a sun protector. Calendula oil has SPF properties as a cream mixture. Further, Calendula is an excellent skin firmer. It firms the skin by utilizing its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to plump the exterior surface of the skin. The plumping gives the external surface of the skin a more tight and supple skin appearance and texture.While dark under eye circles are most commonly caused by fatigue, other causes include damage from excessive sun exposure, eczema, allergies, and pigmentation irregularities. To help reduce under eye circles and reduce puffiness, it is important to invest in a top quality eye cream. Hygeia’s organic eye cream contains the perfect additions: Calendula and Bilberry. Hygieia’s eye cream is organic, plant based, and contains organic cold-pressed oils that rejuvenate and boost the skin with antioxidants while serving as an excellent moisturizer. If you are seeking a rejuvenating eye cream that treats wrinkles, bags, dark circles, and lines, Hygieia’s eye cream is perfect for you! Finally, Calendula is a great protector of the skin from external agitators. The flavonoids, that are in potent dosages in Calendula, are powerful antioxidants that protect the skin against free radical damage. NYC dermatologist Dendy Engleman, MD defines free radical damages as “highly destructive molecules that can wreak havoc on your skin; They are unstable and in search of a missing electron. When free radicals steal an electron from other molecules, it leaves them unstable in return.” Flavonoids protect the skin from free radical damage by pairing with the free radicals, thereby neutralizing them before they bring about premature aging damage, including, but not limited to fine lines, dullness, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles. Calendula is also excellent in healing wound scars. For women, calendula has been proven to decrease the healing time for C-section scars. Calendula ointment is proven effective to reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation at the incision site. Calendula’s healing capabilities stem from increasing oxygen and blood flow to the skin. This thereby results in increased nutrition to the skin, which ultimately promotes optimum skin health and functionality. Calendula provides many skin benefits that should be taken advantage of. Whether you need to better moisturize the area under the eyes or address the dark under eye circles, be sure to order your Hygieia Organic Eye Cream today!
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5 Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of Cellulite
Cellulite seems to be one of those problems that plagues a number of individuals who aren’t entirely sure how to resolve the issue. Most would agree that the dimpled appearance of cellulite occurs due to problems/imbalance in the connective tissue and fat in a person’s body, but there are many theories about what may cause this imbalance. It seems that hormones, diet, lifestyle, and genetics all play a role but are not absolutes. While those who are overweight tend to have a higher chance of getting cellulite, many thin women complain of it as well. It’s not a problem that miraculously disappears overnight, however there are natural remedies that can help balance the connective tissue/fat in the body and address the many possible causes. Either way, these 5 home methods are beneficial and worth a try. 1. Dry brushing This is a remedy that feels great and helps stimulate blood and lymph flow in the body. Some specifics about dry brushing include: Dry skin brushing effectively opens up the pores on your skin. This is something you can — and should — be doing daily, even twice a day. Your skin should be dry, so the ideal time is in the shower before you turn on the water, but remember to not get the brush wet. You should only brush towards the heart, by making long sweeps, scrubbing and circular motions. Start at your feet, moving up the legs on both sides, then work from the arms toward your chest. On your stomach, direct the brush counterclockwise. And, don’t brush too hard, as the skin should be stimulated and invigorated but not irritated or red. The types of brush should include bristles that are natural, not synthetic, and preferably vegetable-derived. The bristles themselves should be somewhat stiff, though not too hard. Look for one that has an attachable handle for hard-to-reach spots, if necessary. In addition to sloughing away dry skin on areas like knees, elbows and ankles, body brushing promotes tighter skin, cell renewal and blood flow. This also helps the lymphatic system release toxins and aids in digestion and kidney function. You’ll also notice a glowy, smooth complexion. 2. Eating gelatin Gelatin is largely composed of the amino acids glycine and proline, which you generally don’t consume in adequate amounts as they are found in the bones, fibrous tissues, and organs of animals. These amino acids are needed not only for proper skin, hair and nail growth but for optimal immune function and weight regulation. The various health benefits to gelatin include: Supports skin, hair and nail growth Good for joints and can help joint recovery Can help tighten loose skin Can improve digestion since it naturally binds to water and helps food move more easily through the digestive tract Rumored to help improve cellulite Great source of dietary collagen Source of protein, but its specific amino acids can help build muscle. One theory is that the decline of gelatin containing foods in the traditional western diet has led to an increase in cellulite as most individuals don’t have the needed building blocks for healthy connective tissue. Either way, it’s yet another remedy that is beneficial for other reasons and will be valuable for cellulite reduction as well. 3. Myofascial massage Cellulite tends to form in the superficial fascia, which is a layer of connective tissue below the skin that contains fat cells. Superficial fascia is fibrous--and due to inactivity, injuries, and improper exercise--adhesions in the fascia can form contributing to the bunched-up or rippled look of the skin. Not only does the superficial fascia become more fibrous, thickened and coarse, and less flexible, but it can also adhere to underlying structures that it normally slides over. Myofascial massage smooths this layer of connective tissue and can also help with some types of muscle and joint problems that are related to imbalances in the fascia. Try using a deep tissue foam roller on a regular basis--which can greatly help--as well as a percussive handheld massager. 4. Coffee scrub Coffee scrubs can be beneficial in reducing cellulite as well. The massage and exfoliation helps skin by stimulating blood/lymph flow, whereas the caffeine in the coffee has a tightening effect. There’s several online coffee scrubs and wraps that work for reducing cellulite and loose skin. Besides, the coffee smells great and this scrub will exfoliate skin: You will need: 1/4 cup coffee grounds 3 TBSP sugar or brown sugar 2-3 TBSP of melted coconut oil Combine the ingredients to create a paste-like consistency and then store in a glass jar. Massage into skin for several minutes using firm pressure and wash as usual. Use 2-3 times a week. Results should be visible within a couple of weeks. 5. Weight training Weight training and working with kettlebells are especially good for the hips/thighs/buttocks/stomach areas. Increasing blood flow to these areas can help remove cellulite, and lifting weights or using kettlebells are one of the most effective ways to build muscle and burn fat--both of which help minimize the appearance of cellulite. You can perform your exercises at home, the weights themselves aren’t expensive, and don’t take up much room to store. Just make certain the motivation is there and you have plenty of space to workout. Final takeaway Many sources agree that hormones play a large part in cellulite formation and that working toward proper hormone balance can help reduce cellulite. Combine balancing your hormones with weight training, a proper diet, a coffee scrub, myofascial massage, eating gelatin, and dry brushing, and you’re well on your way to getting rid of dimpled skin. Everything you do at home with the right intention is worth a try, even if it doesn’t get rid of cellulite, at least you’ve expanded your knowledge on natural remedies that can also help others.
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The Benefits of Argan Oil For Skin
The beauty and health industry has ramped up research in the last several years to find new treatments and products which improve skin conditions and help people live healthier lives and keep their skin healthy and young. One of the treatments which has been discovered recently and sold all around the world is argan oil. This oil is made from kernels which grow on argan trees native to Morocco and can be applied topically to the skin as well as ingested. It provides a litany of benefits to the skin; here are just a few. Reduces Sun Damage Argan oil has been used for centuries as a way to protect skin from sun damage. Multiple studies have been done which support the concept of using the oil to help protect skin from sun damage. The oil is so useful for this purpose because there are many antioxidants provided by the oil, which prevent sun damage from taking place. In short, using argan oil can help protect your skin from sun damage like severe burning and hyperpigmentation. Moisturizes Skin The most common use for the oil is as a moisturizer, which explains why argan is found, in some form or another, in many types of lotions, soaps, and shampoos. To moisturize the skin, many people apply the oil topically, on a daily basis. The oil works as an effective moisturizer because of the heavy amount of vitamin E found within it. This is a fat-soluble vitamin and helps the skin retain water. Heals the Skin There are many components of healing found within argan oil, mostly because of the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients within the oil itself. The oil can be used to treat and reduce conditions such as psoriasis and rosacea. If you want to use argan oil to treat these and conditions like these, it’s best to apply the oil topically, directly to patches of skin which have been most severely affected. Helps Fight Acne Acne is usually caused by hormones, which are spurred on by excess sebum. Argan oil is known to possess a number of anti-sebum effects, making it an incredibly efficient and effective acne treatment for those suffering from severe or mild acne symptoms. The oil can also help promote a complexion which is smooth and soft to the touch. Again, the oil should be applied topically to any of the affected areas to see best results. Heals Skin Infections There are a number of reasons why the skin can become infected. Both bacteria and funguses can find their way onto the skin and cause an array of problems, such as swelling, inflammation, and redness. Argan oil can help treat such infections, however, because of its antibacterial and fungicidal properties. You should apply the oil topically twice daily for a few weeks, or until the infections have begun to subside. Hastens Wound Healing Yes, argan oil can even help your physical wounds heal faster and more efficiently. This is again due to the many antioxidants found within the oil. These work in tandem with the impressive amount of vitamin E found within the oil to help wounds and cuts close and heal faster and more smoothly. For the purposes of wound healing, you should ingest argan oil daily. Mitigates Atopic Dermatitis Pain Atopic Dermatitis is a common condition of the skin where patches of red and itchy skin will emerge and irritate those with the condition. Applying a topical treatment of argan oil to the infected areas will reduce the pain and irritation commonly associated with this condition. The vitamin E and inflammatory properties of the oil are responsible for this soothing response. Anti-Aging Argan oil wouldn’t be one of the most popular oils right now if it weren’t for its anti-aging effects on the skin. Recent studies have shown that taking argan oil both orally and cosmetically will actually increase and improve the elasticity of the skin, leading to younger and healthier looking skin over a period of weeks or months. It’s a great anti-aging treatment, especially when taken in a combination of orally and topically. Makes Skin Less Oily The oiliness of skin is heavily dependent on individuals; that is, some people simply have less oily skin, or more oily skin, than others. For those of us who have oily skin, argan oil can actually reduce the natural oil which accumulates on a daily basis. This is also because of the sebum-reducing properties of the oil, which decreases total sebum in the body, therefore reducing oil on the skin. Apply twice daily for best results. Reduces Stretch Marks Stretch marks are common to women and occur most commonly during pregnancy, as the stomach stretches out to make room for the new life. Anyone can experience stretch marks, however; they’re not exclusive to women or pregnancy. A study was done which tested a water-in-oil cream which contained a substantial percentage of argan oil. This study found that such an oil improved elasticity of the skin and reduced visible stretch marks, as well as helping to prevent any new stretch marks from forming. Applying argan oil directly to stretch marks twice daily will also help you reduce visibility. Checkout our Night Cream with Argan Oil, its 100% USDA Organic!
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Remove Blackheads With A DIY Facial Mask with Turmeric, Peppermint & Frankincense
Have you ever woken up in the morning only to realize your skin is beginning to appear dull and lifeless? Furthermore, underneath the layer you see in the mirror could be the onset of blackheads and a stressed-out face. If you’ve been a slave to over the counter products that aren’t working, now’s the time to create your own facial mask that has endless potential in removing dead skin, nourishing the pores to alleviate unwanted acne, and give your face that dazzling glow. A DIY style of facial products has become more than simply a trend; it’s the wave of the future for many who have been stuck in isolation and unable to visit the store, much less have the inkling to look your best. Working with natural and organic ingredients such as turmeric, peppermint, and frankincense provides your skin with a rejuvenating, clean feel. Plus, getting into the thick of innovating adds an extra zest to your life, especially knowing you’ll be applying the final solution to your skin as a facial mask. Why turmeric, peppermint, and frankincense? These three ingredients each have their own anti-inflammatory properties that give your skin a calming and refreshed appearance. Turmeric As a relative of ginger, this vivid yellow-orange spice is common in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cooking. However, turmeric has been touted as a super food that can fight cancer, ease depression, help ease joint pain, and fight acne. Putting a turmeric mask on your skin or eating turmeric will help fight stubborn pimples -- perhaps because of the spice's reported antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Peppermint Peppermint oil naturally cleanses the skin and has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It has a cooling effect which soothes irritation and inflammation due to acne. Frankincense The oil's aromatic properties are said to promote feelings of relaxation, peace, and overall wellness. It's also thought that frankincense can help support cellular function, so it's often used to soothe skin and reduce the appearance of blemishes. By combining all three of the above ingredients in your own DIY natural face mask, your skin will be on its way to a healthy and beautiful glow. Getting started As with any essential oil, it is imperative to properly dilute Turmeric before use. A little bit goes a long way, so only a few drops can get the job done. To get you started, have all these ingredients ready to formulate your very own facial mask. Get ready for your skin to glow! WHAT YOU NEED 2 oz Bentonite Clay 1 oz Avocado carrier oil 3 drops Turmeric essential oil 2 drops Peppermint essential oil 1 drop of Frankincense essential oil HOW TO USE Simply mix the ingredients together until completely blended. The face mask should have a thick, paste-like consistency. Apply after washing your face. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and wash off with warm water. That’s it. Try it a few times to get the hang of the solution and whether you’ve created the correct mix for your skin type. Oftentimes, if your skin leans toward the dry side, you can always add more of the avocado carrier oil. The same goes for if your skin is a tad more oily and sensitive and more prone to breakouts--you can add more of the bentonite clay. The key is to work with the formulation until you discover the perfect amounts of each essential oil and clay. It may seem a little lumpy at first, so continue to stir until the consistency is smooth enough to apply to your face. The wellness benefits of a DIY facial mask A facial mask can replenish and moisturize your skin, and most importantly, doing it yourself has the added bonus of whatever emotions and creativity you put into it. Face masks are effective treatments because the ingredients are able to sit on your skin for about 10 to 30 minutes. As the nutrients and vitamins penetrate your skin, deep clean your pores and remove the outermost layer of dead skin, these facial masks also cleanse, tighten, exfoliate, soften, and brighten the skin. Plus, whipping up a homemade mask is cheaper than visiting a spa. Your rinse-off mask involves removal with a warm or cool cloth once the mask dries. Your very own DIY facial mask with turmeric, peppermint, and frankincense will also ward off those pesky blackheads that tend to hide beneath the skin’s surface. Takeaway A regular skin care routine can improve your complexion, fight acne, and control oiliness. But don’t think you need a fancy spa to get great results. Using ingredients in your kitchen, you can make a homemade facial mask and give your face the nourishment and hydration it needs, while helping to remove blackheads.
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13 Best Ingredients for Your Natural Skin Care Ritual
Keeping your skin healthy is important. There are many products out there for the skin, it can be difficult to figure out which ones to use. However, paying attention to the ingredients in skin care products can help you avoid toxins, chemicals, and other harmful ingredients. Unless you’re intentional about searching for natural, toxin-free products, most of what you find at the store is going to be filled with various unhealthy, and often damaging, preservatives, fragrances, and stabilizers. Using skincare products that contain these ingredients can be harmful, as they can actually cause negative health effects by seeping into the pores of the skin. The dangerous, synthetic ingredients that common skincare products are filled with are able to make your skin look nice while getting into the pores and causing long-term damage. The good news is that you can learn what to look for and what to avoid so that you don’t have to be confused when you’re shopping down the skincare aisle. Here are the 13 best ingredients to include in a natural skin care routine: Tea Tree Oil Tea tree oil is also called Melaleuca. Hailing from over 230 plant species in Australia, tea tree oil is very effective for healing inflammation, various breakouts, and redness. Most acne treatments are filled with unhealthy chemicals, and can cause more issues than the ones it helps. On the other hand, tea tree oil is safe and effective, with few to no side effects as long as it is used properly with a carrier oil such as coconut oil. Tea tree has a number of healing properties. It is an anti-inflammatory oil, as well as antifungal, anti-bacterial, and antimicrobial. When the properties of the oil enter the pores, it provides healing effects on the skin. Coconut Oil Coconut oil is used for both topical and internal health. It is versatile and can be used in a number of ways with multiple health benefits. As a topical solution, coconut oil works as skin protection from the sun, defense against chronic skin issues, strengthens epidermal tissue, removes dead skin cells, and has all of the anti-properties that tea tree oil contains. It can also be used as a moisturizer and has proven effective in reducing scars. The versatility of coconut oil and its relative success in multiple areas makes it a top ingredient in skin care. Honey Raw honey is unprocessed and unpasteurized, making it the healthiest option for honey. It is chock full of vitamins and nutrients that aid in the skin in a number of ways. It has antimicrobial properties and has been said to be effective in moisturizing the skin, reducing acne, fighting rashes, and even reducing scars. Combined with other treatments, raw honey is useful in healing a number of skin conditions, such as psoriasis, dandruff, diaper rash, and more. Apple Cider Vinegar You may have heard it said that apple cider vinegar is good for everything. For the most part, this is totally accurate. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid and vitamins that are used to detox the body. As a topical solution, apple cider vinegar cleans the skin, prevents acne, and kills pathogens. Sea Salt Sea salt, whether Himalayan or Celtic, is filled with nutrients and minerals that can be used to smooth skin and prevent breakouts. Many of the minerals found in sea salt are also found within the body itself, providing balance and protection for the skin. Avocado Avocados are full of vitamins A, D, and E, which get into the pores, providing moisture and healing. Avocado increases the production of collagen, reduces age spots, and heals burnt skin. Both topical and internal use of avocado can help to reduce inflammation, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Argan Oil Moroccan Argan oil is full of antioxidants, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, as well as linoleic acid. These healing ingredients help with bug bites and acne. They also provide relief and healing to skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, which can be painful and devastating for sufferers. Argan oil is said to be a fountain of youth, leaving skin healthy and natural. Lemon Essential Oil Lemon essential oil has antibacterial properties that can reduce acne breakouts, heal scars, reduce oils and wrinkles, and moisturize. As an essential oil, lemon is filled with many different benefits, making it an important oil to keep on hand. When combined with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba, lemon essential oil can be rubbed on the skin for deep healing. Jojoba Oil Typically used as a carrier oil for other natural skincare ingredients such as lemon or tea tree oil, jojoba plays an important role in the healing of scars, acne, psoriasis, eczema, burns, wrinkles, and more. Jojoba oil comes from Mexico and the southern United States, and has been used as a natural skin treatment for centuries. Jojoba is a polyunsaturated wax, which makes it a healing, moisturizing, natural skincare product. Aloe Vera Aloe Vera is best known as a natural treatment for sunburns. While the effectiveness of Aloe Vera on a sunburn is true, there are also many other benefits of the gel and the latex from the plants’ cells. These parts of the Aloe Vera plant work well as a healing treatment for psoriasis, cold sores, frostbite, and of course, sunburns. It is thought that Aloe Vera contains more than 75 active ingredients that make the plant a top treatment for a number of skin conditions. The active ingredients are anti-inflammatories, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and more. With so many beneficial ingredients making up Aloe Vera, it is a top contender for the most essential natural skin care product. Castor Oil Many people think of consuming castor oil, however, it works wonderfully as a topical addition to your skin care routine. Known as a drying oil, castor oil is used to clean the skin when combined with coconut or almond oil. Shea Butter A traditional African skin care treatment, Shea butter is a high-quality skin moisturizer that is perfect for people with dry skin. Shea butter naturally heals peeling, flaking, redness, as well as the pain and discomfort that often accompanies those conditions. Almond Oil Another carrier oil, almond oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. When used with healing essential oils, almond oil is effective in healing dry skin, rashes, and acne. In Conclusion Taking care of your skin is important. Unfortunately, most people are unaware that the products they’re buying in the stores are filled with harmful chemicals that can actually be damaging for their skin. The good news is, there are many natural ingredients that you can use in your skin care routine. Purchase these ingredients separately or look for them as main ingredients in skin care products.
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Beeswax and Skincare Uses and Benefits You Might Not Have Expected
Did you know that people have been using beeswax in their skincare routines since ancient Egypt? In this post, we will go over some of the beeswax's biggest benefits to the skin and how you can start reaping those benefits today! What is Beeswax? Beeswax is wax that bees produce. The worker bees produce a honeycomb made of wax where they store the colony's honey. Beeswax and Dry Skin Because of its antibacterial properties, beeswax has a storied history of being used to treat skin issues. Historically, beeswax was used to treat burns and wounds. But, these days, beeswax is used to soothe symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. One study found that applying a honey mixture to the skin of people suffering from eczema or psoriasis contributed to a notable improvement in both conditions in just more than two weeks. Start reaping these benefits when you use a night cream like the Hygieia Night Cream to let your skin soak in all of the moisturizing properties all night long. Beeswax can also soothe and relieve the itching caused by eczema. The skin changes associated with eczema produce a strong and often uncontrollable urge to itch. But, the problem is that scratching the itch will make the injuries and irritation much worse. This is where beeswax comes to the rescue by providing the skin with a gentle yet effective protective cover that will significantly reduce and often eliminate itching altogether. Beeswax and Sensitive Skin A separate study found that natural products, like beeswax, were far better at managing sensitive skin than products that contained synthetic ingredients. The study also found that natural products minimized the chances of skin becoming irritated while still providing soothing benefits. Our under eyes are one of the most sensitive and delicate areas of our body. Whether you have sensitive skin or not, it's important to find a natural eye cream like Hygieia Eye Cream to nurture and restore the skin's moisture under the eyes. Beeswax Forms a Protective Barrier Our skin, and especially our faces, come into contact with a lot of chemicals, toxins, and free-radicals that contribute to aging on a daily basis. Beeswax's molecular composition allows it to form a protective barrier on the skin. This barrier can protect the skin from free radicals while also locking moisture in place. When combined with other anti-aging properties, like in the all-natural Hygieia Anti-Aging cream, beeswax is a powerful tool in the anti-aging process. Beeswax is a Great Way to Moisturize Lips Dry, chapped, and often painful lips can be a thing of the past when you turn to beeswax. Beeswax works to keep lips protected, hydrated, and calm. Beeswax is the main ingredient in many lip balms for these very reasons. Beeswax to Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks Beeswax is rich in Vitamin A— one of the most effective vitamins for skin rejuvenation. Stretch marks happen as a result of the body increasing in volume, and the skin can't keep up with the changes caused by lessened elasticity. But, vitamin A-rich beeswax can alleviate these issues and make stretch marks less visible. Beeswax is an all-natural powerhouse when it comes to keeping skin glowing, moisturized, healthy, and alleviating a number of skin issues and conditions. In short, when it comes to skincare, beeswax is the bees knees. Try some beeswax today and watch your skin thrive!
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