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10 Best Beauty Tips Using Turmeric Powder

August 7, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

Turmeric is popularly known as the “Indian Saffron” because of its brilliant yellow color.The history of turmeric date back to 4000 years. Turmeric belongs to the ginger family. It is a native of southern Asia. The rhizomes when not used fresh are boiled for 30-45 minutes, dried in hot ovens and finally ground into dark orange-yellow powder.

Turmeric is an important constituent in Ayurvedic medicine.The main component of the turmeric is a volatile oil called turmerone. It also contains coloring agents called curcuminoids which are natural antioxidants.

Turmeric and Skin Health

Research studies show that turmeric/curcumin is highly beneficial for boosting your skin health. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antineoplastic (prevents the growth and spread of tumors) properties. Turmeric has beneficial effects on skin conditions such as

  • Acne
  • Facial photoaging
  • Alopecia
  • Psoriasis
  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Oral lichen planus
  • Pruritus
  • Radiodermatitis
  • Vitiligo

Research studies say that both oral and topical application of turmeric provides therapeutic benefits for your skin health.

Curcumin has skin regenerative properties and helps in wound healing. According to a review published in the January 2013 issue of the journal Biofactors. Curcumin protects skin by reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals. It regulates proteins involved in the healing process of wounds and influences enzymes involved in skin regeneration.

Beauty Benefits of The Golden Spice

Acne

Acne lesions may include whiteheads blackheads, nodules, small bumps, and cysts. You may suffer from acne due to the sensitivity of hormones, fatty acids within oil glands, combined with bacteria on your skin. You may experience acne on the face, chest, shoulders, and back;these are the sites of oil glands. Your acne may be aggravated due to fluctuating hormonal levels, picking or prodding of lesions and wearing hats, helmets, and headgear.

Turmeric on Acne. Turmeric has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It kills bacteria that causes breakouts. The curcumin present in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce inflammation, swelling, redness, and pain. Turmeric is antiseptic, and it removes the deposition of bacterial infection in skin pores.

Beauty Tip. Mix 4 tablespoons of turmeric powder with four tablespoons of raw honey and one tablespoon milk. Blend it to a smooth consistency and store in the fridge. Take a hot shower and dip a clean washcloth in hot water.

Gently press the washcloth onto the affected areas for 5 minutes. This action will bring the puss to the surface. Now apply the turmeric mixture. Massage for at least ten minutes. And leave it overnight. Wash it off in the morning. Use a gentle toner dipped in a cotton ball to remove the yellow stain on your face.

Aging

Your skin is at the mercy of sun, harsh weather,stress and bad habits. How your skin ages will depend on your lifestyle, heredity, diet and other personal habits. When you grow old, your skin may become rough, loose and transparent.There is a loss of fat below the skin in the cheeks, temples, skin, nose, and eyes. Exposure to the sun can also lead to premature wrinkles.

Turmeric on Aging. Turmeric is one of the highest antioxidant containing spices in the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity Scale. Studies show that turmeric inhibits an enzyme called elastase that reduces the production of elastin. Elastin is essential for your smooth and pliable skin.

The curcuminoids present in turmeric are healthy antioxidants. They have antioxidant activity comparable to that of vitamins And E.

Turmeric is known to treat conditions of oxidative stress.

  • It increases the level of antioxidant enzymes
  • Scavenges free radicals that cause oxidative stress
  • Inhibits the oxidation of fats present in cell membrane leading to cell death.
  • It is successful in stimulating antioxidant defenses in human dermal fibroblasts.

Beauty Tip. Mix one teaspoon each of turmeric, gram flour, jojoba oil, one tablespoon lemon juice and enough milk to form a paste. Rub onto wet skin and leave it for 10 minutes. Gently wipeoff the mask with fingertips and rinse with lukewarm water. You can apply this mask 1-2 times a week.

Dark Circles

Dark circles can be due to bad blood circulation. The skin around your eyes is thin anddelicate. So the accumulated pigments become more visible here than anywhere else. Stress, insufficient sleep, consumption of tobacco or alcohol and aging may be the causes of dark circles.

Turmeric on Dark Circles. If you suffer from “raccoon eyes’ then turmeric may be your best bet. Turmeric is a natural antioxidant,anti-inflammatory spice and significantly reduces dark circles. When taken internally, turmeric detoxifies your blood and liver and gives you a radiant skin. Turmeric reduces wrinkles and fine lines. It rejuvenates tired and sagging skin.

Beauty Tip. Gently mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with some pineapple juice and create a thick paste. Apply this mixture to your dark circles and leave it for 10 minutes. Use a soft, warm, damp cloth to remove the mask gently. Repeat this routine once daily.

Skin Lightening

The Dull skin may make you look tired and old.Less skin moisture, failure to exfoliate, insufficient sleep, stress, pollutants, UV exposure, unhealthy foods and smoking habit are the causes of dull skin.

Turmeric on Skin Lightening. Curcumin present in turmeric helps to resolve hyperpigmentation and reduces melanin production. Melanin triggers include

  • Sun exposure,
  • Pituitary stress
  • Skin damage
  • Tumors
  • Cushing syndrome and others.

These factors trigger the ACTH hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. ACTH hormone supports MCIR which is one of the proteins that stimulates melanin production. Curcumin helps to reduce the ACTH hormone and thus reduces hyperpigmentation and lightens skin.

Beauty Tip. Peel the skin of an orange, dry them under the sun until crisp and blend it to a fine powder. Mix two tablespoons of orange peel powder to 1 teaspoon of turmeric, one tablespoon of honey and water to make a fine paste.

Apply this paste onto your face and let it sit for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water. Repeat this procedure three times a week.

Teeth Whitening

If you feel that your smile is a tad duller when compared to the teeth of models and celebrities, then you need to do something about it.

Yellow discoloration may be due to dark-colored foods and beverages-they fall under the extrinsic stain category. Usage of numerous medications and too much fluoride are the intrinsic factors which lead to yellow teeth.

Turmeric on Yellow Teeth. Turmeric is an excellent natural remedy for sensitive teeth and other dental problems like toothache, tooth decay, and gingivitis because it has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It whitens your teeth by removing plaque.

Turmeric has astringent and abrasive properties that whiten your teeth. It consists of magnesium, selenium, calcium and vitamin C that improves your oral health. Curcumin helps to kill germs and other microbes causing gum and tooth problems.

Beauty Tip. Add two tablespoons of organic coconut oil, four tablespoons organic turmeric powder and two tsp baking soda.  Give the mixture a gentle stir, and leave it in a cool place, so it forms a semisolid consistency. Take a little amount of the turmeric toothpaste and brush for about 2 minutes. Store the remaining toothpaste in a glass container.

To completely remove the stains rinse your mouth well with water. Use this turmeric toothpaste twice a week. Continuous usage will brighten your teeth naturally and enhance your oral health.

Cracked Heels

When your sensitive skin on the bottom of your feet becomes dry, it splits open leaving sharp cracks called fissures on your heels. Cracked heels may be the result of cold weather, dehydration, not moisturizing your feet or having diabetes.

Turmeric on Cracked Heels. Curcumin has excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It soothes your cracked heels and boosts circulation in your legs which increase cell turnover. This action helps to heal the fissures. The Turmeric is antiseptic which protects the wounds from infections and helps your heels to heal faster.

Beauty Tip. Neem has antifungal properties which protect your feet from getting infected. Blend 100 grams of neem leaves in a blender. Alternatively, you can use three teaspoons of neem powder or neem oil.

Mix it with four teaspoons of turmeric and one tablespoon of rose water or milk. Apply the paste onto your cracked heels and leave it for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water and towel dry. Repeat the regimen daily to get rid of cracked heels.

Hair Loss

Your hair may fall due to physical stress, pregnancy, lack of protein, heredity, male pattern baldness, female hormones, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, lupus, overstyling, and aging.

Turmeric on Hair Loss. Eating turmeric as part of your diet or drinking it as a supplement will give a boost to your body’s overall health. It will reinforce your immune system to stimulate hair growth. Turmeric extracts inhibit a5-AR enzyme which is the primary cause of androgenic hair loss.

TGF Beta 1 is a growth factor that plays a role in the death of hair follicles and results in hair loss. Turmeric inhibits its activity, boosts follicle health and helps in hair growth.

Beauty Tip. Mix turmeric powder with milk and honey and apply on your scalp by gentle massage.

Dandruff

When your scalp becomes dry or greasy, it produces white flakes of skin that appear in the hair or shoulders. Although it is harmless, it can be embarrassing for those who have it.

The real cause of dandruff is a yeast-like fungus Malassezia globose that lives on your scalp feeding your skin oils. The fungus utilizes enzymes known as lipases to metabolize the oil. It creates a byproduct called oleic acid. The acid penetrates your skin and causes skin cell shedding.

Turmeric on Dandruff. Turmeric has strong antiseptic properties. Studies show that turmeric can help prevent and treat both skin and systemic fungal infections.

Beauty Tip. Add one teaspoon of organic turmeric powder to 2 tablespoons of organic coconut oil or olive oil. Mix well and massage this paste on your scalp. Leave for 15-20 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water using a mild shampoo. Repeat it once or twice a week until you get rid of dandruff.

Burns

Burns is one of the most common household injuries. They can lead to severe skin damage that causes the skin cells to die. There are three primary types of burns first, second and third-degree burns. Each level is based on the severity of damage to the skin.

Turmeric on Burns. In laboratory studies, curcuminoids are said to provide anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Studies show that turmeric is very efficient on radiation burns. Researchers say topical application of turmeric provides excellent results in the treatment of wounds.

The key to curcumin’s effectiveness on burns and scalds is that it is a natural inhibitor of an enzyme called phosphorylase kinase which delays wound healing. Curcumin inhibits phosphorylase kinase and speeds up the healing process.

Beauty Tip. Mix one teaspoon each of turmeric powder and aloe vera gel to make a fine paste. Apply onto the burnt areas of the skin. Let it sit for a few hours. Continue using this mix for several times a day to disinfect and heal the burns and scalds.

Stretch Marks

Your stretch marks are the result of the stretching of the skin. It may develop during pregnancy, being overweight or due to weight loss and various other factors.

Turmeric on Stretch Mark. University of Michigan researchers have found that curcumin present in turmeric penetrates cell membranes.Once inside the cell it functions as a disciplinarian. It establishes order within the cell and enables the cell to control the flow of information.

 It does not interact with the proteins in the cell but alters the physical properties of the membrane. By doing so, turmeric boosts the cells resistance to malignancy and infection.It helps maintain theproper balance of collagenand elastin to prevent these stretch marks.

Beauty Tip. Add coconut oil or olive oil to 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder.Alternatively, you can also use water. Apply the paste onto your stretch marks. Leave it for about 15-30 minutes then wash it off. You have to practice this regimen morning and evening daily to get rid of your stretch marks.

Conclusion

It is always best to use organic turmeric powder. You can easily find it in any Asian market or any online stores. You can take turmeric internally by mixing a pinch of it in your hot cup of milk. You can add turmeric to flavor your curries or soups.

When using turmeric, it causes yellow stains; you can easily remove it by applying a toner. You can prepare the toner by mixing raw milk in rose water. Turmeric may cause allergy to some people. It would be in your best interest to do a skin patch test before you use it.

If you have something to say more about the beauty benefits of turmeric just drop a line in our comments section below.

7 Skin Care Hacks To Get Rid Of Stubborn Pimples For Good

August 4, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

A pimple-speckled skin can be an insult to your beauty. If you suffer from stubborn pimples, take heart,here are seven skin care hacks and useful tips that help to cure your stubborn pimples. If you follow these hacks religiously, you’ll enjoy a glowing and beautiful skin.

Self-Help Pimple Treatments

Diet and Sleep. New York University researchers have reported that a diet high in dairy products and high glycemic foods can increase the risk of acne. Eliminating sugar, drinking lots of water and including Omega-3 foods in your diet will help prevent acne breakout.

Be sure to get your beauty rest because stress is one of the biggest causes of acne. Getting plenty of rest reduces acne-associated stress.

Avoid Popping the Pimple. Popping the pimples increases the risk of scarring. If you pop a pimple, you increase the danger of pushing the infection further down causing swelling, redness and more severe blockage.

Wash Your Face. Wash your face twice daily. Use a mild soap and warm water and gently wash your face. Avoid scrubbing your skin. Use over the counter lotions which contains benzoyl peroxide.

Avoid Touching Your Face. Refrain from touching your face with your hands. If you’re talking over the telephone, do not let the receiver touch the skin of your face because it may contain skin residue or sebum on it.

Practice Good Hand Hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and if possible try to keep your nails short.

Glasses. Your glasses may contain sebum and skin residue, so clean them regularly.

Wear Loose Fitting Clothes. Allow your skin to breathe. If you suffer from pimples on your back, shoulders or chest wear loose clothing. If possible avoid wearing headbands, caps, and scarves. In case you have to wear them wash them on a regular basis.

Hair and Makeup. Keep your hair clean and try to get your hair away from your face because sebum and skin cells collect in your hair. Remove all your makeup before you sleep. Use makeup that is non-comedogenic (won’t clog skin pores) or non-acnegenic (won’t cause pimples or acne). You can find these details on the label of the product.

It’s best to buy a facial cosmetic that says “oil-free.” An oil-free makeup won’t cause clogged pores and pimples.

Sun Exposure. If you are overexposed to sunlight, it might lead to the production of more sebum. Certain medications used by people with acne make the skin more prone to sunburn.

Shaving Your Face. While you shave your face make sure that the blade is sharp or use an electric shaver. Soften your skin with warm soapy water before applying the shaving cream

Over the Counter Treatments. Go in for over the counter products that contain the following active ingredients Resorcinol, Benzoyl Peroxide, Sulfur, Salicylic Acid, Retin-A and Azelaic acid. They may be available in the form of gels, pads, creams, soaps, and lotions. It is advisable to start with the lowest strengths.

When you first use these medications you make experience redness, skin irritation, and burning. But after continued use, these side effects will go away. If you have sensitive skin, you can uselotions or creams. Gels work well for people with oily skin.

Skin Care Hacks

Tea Tree Oil. Tea tree oil is one of the most recommended remedies for acne. The natural antimicrobial properties make it an excellent alternative to the harsh synthetic chemicals and kill acne-causing bacteria. Tea tree oil contains terpinene-4-ol that’s responsible for its microbial activity.

When you apply it to the skin, it destroys the skin-dwelling bacteria that causes acne. Tea tree oil deeply penetrates into the skin to unblock the sebaceous glands. It disinfects the pores, dries out whiteheads, zits, pimples, blackheads and prevents further breakouts.

Tea tree oil balances your skin by controlling oil production. You can use it as an antiseptic that removes damaged skin cells.

How to Use Tea Tree Oil:

  • Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to the affected area using a cotton ball. Keep it for 3-4 hours or overnight. Repeat regularly for best results.
  • Diluted tea tree oil. Add one part of tea tree oil to nine parts of water. Apply to the affected area using a cotton ball. Leave for 20-25 minutes. Rinse with cool water and pat dry. Use a moisturizer that doesn’t clog the pores. Repeat 2 times a day. You can also use this method as a face rinse. It is useful for treating cystic acne. If you have sensitive skin, you can dilute the tea tree oil with aloe vera gel.

Lemon Juice. Lemon juice contains citric acid; it acts as an antiseptic since bacteria has a difficult time adjusting to acidic environments. This lemon juice significantly reduces the number of bacteria that live on the top of your skin.

Lemon contains antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. The phytoncides and vitamin P present in lemon juice prevent the growth of bacteria. The L-ascorbic acid present in lemon juice contains astringent properties that constrict and shrink the skin pores and dries out the acne lesions.

The citric acid acts as a chemical exfoliate. It removes the dead cells and oil that clog the pores resulting in infection. Lemon is rich in vitamin C.Vitamin C fights against free radicals causing breakouts. Lemon juice balances the skin’s pH levels and reduces redness and inflammation caused by acne.

How to Use Lemon Juice:

  • Wash your face with soap and water. Apply some freshly squeezed lemon juice to your affected areas using a cotton ball. Leave it overnight. First thing in the morning,rinse your face with cold water. For best results follow this procedure daily before going to bed. If you have sensitive skin, just dilute lemon juice with water. Lemon juice dries out your skin so apply moisturizer after each application.
  • Lemon juice with yogurt. Mix two parts of fresh lemon juice with one part of yogurt. Wash your face and dab the mixture onto the affected area using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel. Repeat regularly to get the desired results. Yogurt absorbs excess oil present in the skin pores. It moistens the skin and has a soothing effect on inflammation.

Aloe Vera Gel. Aloe vera gel contains Auxin and Gibberellins. These hormones help in wound healing and have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation. The Gibberellin acts as growth hormone and boosts the production of new cells. It helps the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring.

Aloe contains glucomannan (a mannose-rich polysaccharide) which improves collagen synthesis. Aloe vera absorbs excess oil from your skin and thus prevents clogging of pores. It contains zinc, vitamin C and vitamin E and these antioxidants enhance the beauty of your skin.

As an astringent aloe contracts, the skin pores thus rendering them clean from any deposited sebum, dead skin cells or dirt.

The magnesium lactate present in aloe will alleviate the itching associated with acne conditions. The Anthraquinone present in aloe helps provide essential nutrients to the skin cells to boost its development. Your skin will look flawless and radiant if you apply aloe gel on a daily basis.

How to Use Aloe Vera:

  • Mix one egg whipped, one teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and two tablespoons of aloe vera pulp. Apply this as a face mask. Leave it for 15-20 minutes. Wash your face with water after it dries completely. Continue using this mixture regularly. Lemon and egg white can dry your skin so apply a gentle moisturizer after washing your face.
  • Aloe vera with walnuts. Blend 4-5 walnuts into a fine powder. Mix it with aloe gel and ½ teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the affected area. Leave it for 10-20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Repeat the process 2-3 times a week.

Turmeric. The curcumin present in turmeric is non-toxic and can be used to treat skin disorders such as acne, rashes, and warts. It has chemoprotective properties and can be used to prevent cancers of the skin.

Research studies have shown that curcumin possesses antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties. Studies say that curcumin reduces wound healing time when taken internally or applied topically.

In conditions such as acne, inflammation and oxidative stress prevent tissue remodeling.Curcumin improves collagen deposition, increase the number of collagen-producing cells and enhance the density of the vascular structure of the skin and thus promotes wound healing. The antiseptic properties of turmeric remove the deposition of bacterial infection in the skin pores.

How to Use Turmeric:

  • Turmeric with olive oil and black pepper. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper and a teaspoon of olive oil. Consume on a daily basis and drink water to ease ingestion into your body.
  • Turmeric with mint, nutmeg, and basil. Mix ½ teaspoon each of turmeric powder, nutmeg, mint juice and basil juice to make a paste. Apply the paste on the affected areas. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse with water. Repeat daily.

Neem. Neem is an excellent antioxidant; it has twice the antioxidant properties of broccoli and blueberries. It has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, so it strengthens your immune system and protects against acne-causing bacteria.

Neem contains quercetin a bioflavonoid that helps to fade the scars and keeps your skin soft and smooth. Salicylic acid, an anti-bacterial agent which is usually present in many commercial acne products is also present in neem. It reduces inflammation, redness, swelling, and tenderness caused by breakouts.

Neem has excellent moisturizing properties. It contains carotenoids, fatty acids, vitamin E and ascorbic acid which provides your skin a healthy glow. Neem balances oil production and prevents excess oil from clogging your pores. Best of all it is a non-abrasive exfoliate which draws toxins from the skin. It tightens the pores to prevent bacterial infections that cause acne.

How to Use Neem:

  • Neem water. You can use neem water as a skin toner. Regular use will help in clearing your acne scars, blackheads and pigmentation. Boil about 20 neem leaves or add two neem leaf capsules in two cups of water till the water turns green and the leaves are discolored. Strain and store in a bottle and keep in the fridge. Dip a cotton ball and wipe your face.Pour some neem water in a spray bottle. Spritz with neem after washing skin. Repeat twice daily. You can buy neem leaf capsules from Amazon.
  • Neem with cucumber. Blend cucumber until smooth and mix with one tsp Neem oil. Gently massage the paste and let it dry. Rinse with water and pat dry. Repeat three times weekly.

Peppermint. Peppermint oil acts a cleaner and decongestant for your skin. The peppermint oil cools the skin, reduces testosterone 5-ALPHA reductase production and inhibits bacterial growth. Peppermint oil contains methanol, and its cooling property reduces acne inflammation.

Peppermint reduces testosterone 5-ALPHA reductase production and so excess oil or sebum production decreases. Since less oil is trapped, this less inviting environment reduces the excess growth of Propionibacterium acnes.

How to Use Peppermint:

  • You can apply a few drops of peppermint oil directly to the affected skin two to four times daily. Always spot test the oil on the inside of your arm. You can use the recommended amount if your skin reacts positively. Never apply peppermint oil products near the eyes.
  • Add equal parts of vitamin E and jojoba oil to a few drops of peppermint oil. Apply your treatment directly onto a pimple until you see the desired results.

Baking Soda. Baking soda has excellent exfoliating properties. It dries out the skin by removing trapped dead skin cells and oil in the pores. Baking soda balances your skin’s pH levels and prevents clumping of bacteria.

It encourages the growth of collagen to fill in the indented acne scars. This process helps in shedding the skin and stimulates new skin growth. Baking soda aids to gently scrape the scar tissue layer by layer. It cleans the pores and prevents further acne breakouts. It peels off the outer layer of your skin and promotes the regeneration of younger layer of new skin cells.

How to Use Baking Soda:

  • Mix½ teaspoon of baking soda and olive oil into a paste. Gently apply it on the scars and massage it for 5-7 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water. Follow this process regularly to see stunning results.
  • Baking soda with orange juice. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with one teaspoon of orange juice. Apply onto your pimples.Gently rub in circular motions for 1-2 minutes. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Wash it off with clean water and use a moisturizer. Repeat the process regularly to get rid of your stubborn pimple.

Conclusion

A balanced diet enhances your skin health. Include flaxseed, fish, green tea, oysters, fruits, veggies and probiotics in your diet. Exercise regularly, have a good night’s sleep and practice meditation.

You can try all the acne-fighting hacks discussed above. Stick to the one that you’re comfortable with and get rid of that stubborn pimple for good.

7 Healthy Diet Changes For Better Skin – Infographic

August 3, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

The Ultimate List Of Oral Vitamins To Boost Skin Regeneration

August 2, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

Are you frustrated with cracked lips, dry and wrinkly skin or dull hair?A supplement could be your answer. The below-mentioned nutrients have the power to regenerate your skin and give you younger looking skin, shinier strands, and stronger nails. Just check with your doctor before you add any of these supplements to your diet.

How Does Your Skin Work?

Your skin’s regenerative capacity is critical because it acts as a protective barrier between your internal organs and the outside world. Throughout your life, your skin will constantly change for better or worse. In fact, your skin will regenerate every twenty-sevendays. Regular skin care is essential to maintain the health and vitality of this organ.

Stratum Corneum. This layer contains the outer dead skin cells that exist in the epidermis. Using facial scrubs and other skin products will remove or thin this layer.

Epidermis. It is the outer layer of your skin. It is the most delicate layer and protects you from the harsh environment. It contains keratinocytes, melanocytes, and Langerhans cells.

 The epidermis has four layers:

  • Stratum germinativum
  • Stratum spinosum
  • Stratum granulosum
  • And stratum lucidum

Dermis. The dermis is the layer responsible for wrinkles. It consists of blood vessels, hair follicles, and oil glands. Collagen and elastin which provide support and elasticity to your skin are present here.The dermis contains fibroblasts which synthesize collagen and elastin.

Subcutis. Subcutis is your skin’s fatty layer, reduction of tissue in this layer causes your skin to wrinkle and sag.

Collagen. Collagen is the fountain of youth because your skin is made up of 75 percent of this protein.

Elastin. Elastin is responsible for giving support and structure to your skin and organs. Reduced levels of elastin cause your skin to wrinkle and sag.

Keratin. Keratin is the strongest protein which is dominant in your hair and nails. It gives rigidity to your skin.

Oral Vitamins that Boost Skin Regeneration

Vitamin C. An antioxidant that plays a significant role in the manufacture of collagen- a protein which helps your skin renew itself.

Researchers at the University of Leicester and Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biology in Portugal have found that vitamin C may enhance wound healing, by stimulating the fibroblasts to divide.They even promote the migration of fibroblasts into the wounded area.

Vitamin C increases the capacity of your fibroblasts to repair potentially mutagenic DNA lesions. It protects against ultraviolet damage from the sun and reduces wrinkles caused by aging.

Vitamin E. Present in large amounts in the outer layer of your skin called the epidermis. This vitamin is essential for healthy skin and eyes and high immunity. It assists skin regeneration by improving skin texture, moisture, softness and protects your cell membranes from free radical damage.

Vitamin E helps to regulate retinol or vitamin A stores in your body. Studies have shown the established benefits of vitamin Eare in people are deficient in this vitamin. If you suffer from digestive problems, cystic fibrosis and if you are on a very low-fat diet then you may suffer from vitamin E deficiency.

Vitamin A. Helps in the generation of healthy skin cells. If you supplement this vitamin, it will promote wound healing and the formation of the scar tissue. Your body needs vitamin A for the maintenance and regeneration of epithelial cells.

Vitamin A strengthens theimmune system and helps the healing process by reducing inflammation. It is required to form glycoproteins a combination of sugar and proteins which help the cells to bind together to form soft tissues. Vitamin A fights acne, wrinkles and produces more collagen.

Vitamin K. Fights skin conditions such as stretch marks, spider veins, scars, dark spots and stubborn circles under your eyes. You need between 90- 120 ug per day. Vitamin K1, vitamin K2, and vitamin K3 are the three types of vitamins. Out of which, vitamin K2 called the menaquinone is the best.

The bacteria that line your gastrointestinal tract produces this vitamin, and it goes straight to your blood vessel walls, bones and tissues. You can increase your K2 content by including more fermented foods in your diet. The food highest in natural K2 is a form of fermented soybeans consumed in Asia.

Vitamins B Complex

  • Thiamine (vitamin B1)
  • Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
  • Niacin( vitamin B3)
  • Pantothenic acid(vitamin B5)
  • Pyridoxine(vitamin B6)
  • Biotin(vitamin B7)
  • Inositol(vitamin B8)
  • Folic acid(vitamin B9)
  • Cobalamin(vitamin B12)

These are all the various forms of vitamin B. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to acne, cracked lips, and sensitivity to light, wrinkles, dryness, rashes and an uneven skin tone. Vitamin B will improve the balance, texture, and moisture retention of your skin.

This vitamin heals damaged complexion when taken internally and also by topical application. Since all types of vitamin B are water soluble, your body will naturally excrete any unused vitamin B. For optimal skin health focus more on B6 pyridoxine which is essential for beautiful skin. Include more of probiotics in your diet and eat lightly cooked egg yolks.

Selenium. A crucial player when it comes to slowing down of aging. It neutralizes free radicals and other skin damaging compounds before they can lead to wrinkles. It works along with vitamin E to safeguard your cell membranes.

Selenium bolsters your body’s army of white blood cells and increases your immunity. It helps thwart the production of inflammatory cytokines molecules that buildup in your body and harm healthy skin.Selenium sulfide fights the yeast that causes dandruff. The RDA of selenium daily for men and women is 55mcg.

Copper. Plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin. It helps to develop collagen and elastin which maintains the strength of your skin. Copper promotes the production of your skin plumping hyaluronic acid. It helps heal and hydrate your skin and has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Copper along with iron plays asignificant role in supplying oxygenated blood to your skin. It helps regulate the function of lysyl oxidase an enzyme needed for thecreation of collagen in bones and connective tissues.

Zinc. A trace mineral and found in every single cell in your body. The mineral lessens the formation of free radicals and protects your skin’s lipids and fibroblasts. Zinc helps in healing and rejuvenating your skin.

Even your intact skin relies on zinc for new cell production and the function of cell membranes. Zinc boosts immune function and helps control the inflammatory response of acne flare-ups. Men need about 11mg per day, while women need about 8mg.

Alpha Lipoic Acid. An essential antioxidant that prevents aging and skin inflammation. It is essential for

  • Energy production in your cells
  • Regeneration of vitamins C and E
  • Reduction of cellular inflammation
  • Inhibiting the action of the transcription factor NF-kB
  • Stimulation of AP-1 which helps remodel collagen
  • Protects your skin from free radical inflammation

DMAE. Short form of dimethylaminoethanol which reduces the buildup of lipofuscin deposits inside the cell. Lipofuscin consists of aggregated chunks of molecular waste which contribute to the aging process. The DMAE nutrients help to tighten your skin and keeps it young.

Hyaluronic Acid. HA replenishes moisture to your skin and makes it look younger and supple. It revitalizes your skin’s outer layers making it look softer, smoother, hydrated and glowing. This acid attracts moisture from the surrounding air and improves your skin’s hydration levels. Researchers found that application of HA provides improvements in facial contours and volumes. It reduces sagging skin, increases lip volume and decreases wrinkle depth.

Essential Fatty Acids. The essential fatty acids like omega 3’s and omega 6’s are the building blocks of your healthy cell membranes. These healthy fats help produce your skin’s natural oil barrier. They enhance your skin’s hydration making it look plumper and younger looking. Your skin may be inflamed, dry and prone to whiteheads and blackheads if you are deficient in these healthy fats. Essential fatty acids diminish the inflammation associated with acne.

Coenzyme Q10. Also known as ubiquinone, is naturally produced by your body. It is said to be one of the most important biomarkers of aging because its decline correlates with the aging process. It acts as a strong antioxidant and neutralizes free radicals.

Italian researchers say that oral supplements and topical application of Coenzyme Q10 produce higher levels of this antioxidant within the skin. The study, published in “FOOD Style” magazine, says oral supplement of CoQ10 equivalent to 60 mg per day reduced wrinkle area by 33 percent, wrinkle volume by 38 percent and wrinkle depth by 7 percent.

Vitamin P. More commonly known as bioflavonoids. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that scavenge the harmful radicals. The free radicals damage your cells and alter your genetic DNA. This action, in turn, accelerates the aging process and leads to many diseases.

There are over 4000 flavonoids out of which around 100 are found to be beneficial to humans. Proanthocyanidin family are the most relevant to the anti-aging effects of skin. They protect collagen by blocking collagenase a collagen-destroying enzyme. They strengthen your blood vessels and helps oxygenate your cells.

Chlorella. Studies say that Chlorella, a blue-green alga which is rich in aminoacids and antioxidants enhance the beauty of your skin. Chlorella is rich in vitamin C, protein, omega three fatty acids, iron, calcium, and fiber. Consuming chlorella may help you get an adequate amount of these nutrients that makes your skin glow with good health.

According to Personal Care Magazine, clinical tests show that a 1 percent concentration of dermochlorella increased skin’s firmness and tone after using it for 84 days. The antioxidants in Chlorella protect skin cells from accelerated aging caused by free radicals and sun damage.

Chlorophyll. A pigment present in green plants. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A, C, E and K. Oral supplementation is effective in obtaining chlorophyll for your body as it does not survive digestion long enough for absorption.

Chlorophyll has a molecular structure similar to that of hemoglobin but has magnesium as its center atom. Magnesium is essential for oxygenating your skin cells and is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin C, a crucial skin vitamin. Chlorophyll help combat blemishes is a wound healer and a wrinkle repressor.

Gamma Linoleic Acid. Beautiful skin needs a very special essential fatty acid called the gamma linoleic acid. The first warning sign of GLA deficiency is cradle cap in infants which signifies that mom was deficient in GLA. Gamma linoleic acid boosts your skin’s hydration levels, reduces inflammation and gives you a glowing skin.

GLA makes your skin dewy, luminescent and radiant. When your menstrual cycles have stopped your body cannot produce GLA, so it is wise to supplement your diet with GLA to make your skin look younger.

Lycopene. Lycopene is a carotenoid phytonutrient that has amazing antioxidant properties. It is effective in reducing the damage caused to your skin by UV-A and UV-B exposure. Lycopene is converted to retinol by your body and reduces the effects of aging because it enhances the production of collagen and melatonin, which are essential for overall skin health.

Iron. Dark circles and pale skin are the results of iron deficiency. A healthy dose of iron-rich foods or iron supplements to your daily diet gives your skin a healthy glow. Iron steps up the process of wound healing and fights hair loss. It significantly improves your nail health.

Conclusion

There are many issues that you should be aware while choosing supplements. If you’re taking any prescription drugs, it is essential to check with your doctor before taking supplements. Many commercial brands of supplements contain fillers that may have harmful health effects. So it would be in your best interest to read the labels before you make your purchase.

Supplements are meant to be a part of an overall program of healthy eating, exercise and stress reduction that will help with your overall wellness in due time. So having unrealistic expectations or expecting overnight results will lead to disappointment. While taking supplements, a small dose would be beneficial for you, taking mega doses will be dangerous for your health.

A healthy vitamin rich diet with a balanced approach to taking vitamins and other supplements is a good thing.Proper nutrients along with a great skin care routine, sleep, exercise, and optimism will greatly enhance the health of your skin.

The Best Anti-Aging Night Creams – Infographic

August 1, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

The Ultimate Guide On How To Use Skin Care Products

July 31, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

There are so many skin care products out there. You can get foamy cleaners, liquid toners, oily moisturizing creams. Just what do you need to use and how should you use them?

If only being a girl came with some instructions, but instead, we must spend time finding out how other people use their skin care products. We need to ask for advice from professionals and beauty gurus to make sure we use each item correctly.

And then there are the different types of skin care products for different skin types! It’s a minefield, and sometimes it seems like it would be better to avoid them all. Of course, that isn’t the case! Not using anything can be just as bad for you as using the wrong types.

Well, using your skin care products doesn’t need to be difficult. Here’s your ultimate guide to the type of products you want to use, the order to apply them, and how much to apply.

Make Sure You Have the Right Products

Before you buy a product, you want to make sure it is right for your skin. If you have acne-prone, oily skin, look for products that contain salicylic acid. This actively kills the bacteria that causes acne but does dry out the skin. If you have naturally dry skin, you’ll want to make sure you have an extremely good moisturizer afterward.

Avoid soaps at all cost. For oily skin, foamy cleansers are good. Meanwhile, oils and balms are worth considering for dry skin.

Do you need an exfoliating product? You’ll hear mixed advice. There are some celebrities that believe in exfoliating daily, while others believe in not doing it at all. The most common advice from the beauty experts is to exfoliate weekly. This will give your skin the deep cleanse it needs to get rid of any missed bacteria and grime.

Your exfoliating products shouldn’t leave your skin feeling too tight or irritated. If they do, you need to switch products immediately.

Now that you have the right products, it’s time to figure out the order.

Apply from Thin to Thick

You want to layer your skin care products. Once you’ve cleansed your face, you want to apply everything from thin to thick. Your moisturizing cream will be the last thing before using your makeup. It’s always going to be the thickest.

Acne treatments need to be used first. They will dry out the skin but also need help penetrating the skin. You don’t want to use up the active ingredients in the layers of moisturizing cream, making them ineffective when they finally get into your skin!

You’ll also want to think about the time of day that you’re applying your skin care products. There are some perfect for the morning and others that will need the overnight recovery period to work efficiently and effectively.

Starting Your Morning Routine

Let’s work with the morning routine firstly. As soon as you get up, you want to cleanse your face gently. You won’t need to scrub hard. Unless you’ve slept in the dirt, your skin will be clean from the night before. You may get away with just some water and a light cleanser. Consider creating your natural cleanser with lemon juice and milk. This will get into your pores to kill any bacteria while boosting your collagen production with the proteins in the milk.

You can also use honey and coconut oil for cleansing the skin. The benefit of natural options is that you’ll get rid of the toxins in over the counter options. If you prefer a store-bought option, look for a gentle milk or foam cleanser.

If you are on an exfoliating day, you want to do it before using a cleanser. Sure, it’s rough, but this is when you will get most of the dead skin cells. The skin rejuvenates overnight, leaving a layer of dead skin cells the next morning. We’ll move onto the details of exfoliating at the bottom as it is just a weekly thing to do.

Step two is the toner. Your cleanser has removed some dirt, but the toner will make sure the excess oils are also wiped away. Stay away from lotions and toners that have alcohol. They will dry out the skin and make it more irritating.

If you want to make your toner, you can create one with cucumber juice. This is refreshing and soothing to start your morning.

The next stage is a serum if you want. This is completely optional and an excellent way to naturally brighten your skin tone. You can get rid of the fine lines and dull skin from environmental and sun damage.

Serums don’t need to be oil. Look out for oil-free options to use on your skin.

After this, use the moisturizing cream. If you can, use one that has sunscreen in it. You can even choose one with a toner to reduce the amount of makeup that you use. The moisturizing cream should be relatively light if you already have oily skin. If you have exceptionally dry skin, look for heavy, dense moisturizers. This will help to keep the moisture in your skin and keep it working through the layers throughout the day.

Finish with some eye cream. This will help to keep the wrinkles at bay. You want to use it even if you don’t have wrinkles yet. There’s no time like the present to combat the signs of aging.

Wrapping Up for the Night

After your day, you need to clean your face. This should be done a little before you go to bed. You want the recovery period overnight for your pores to soak the creams in fully and hydrate your skin, ready for the next day.

Start with a cleanser. This should be stronger than the one you used on a morning, as it will need to get rid of the makeup and grit that you’ve collected over the day. If you have oily skin, opt for a strong foamy cleanser. This will help to avoid any residue but will get rid of waterproof make. Those with dry skin will want to consider an oil or balm for the best makeup removing effects. Milkisn’t strong enough.

You’ll be able to feel your cleanser working. Once you’ve finished, your skin should feel soft and smooth. There shouldn’t be the feeling of particles left behind. If you do, you’ll want to get a different cleanser.

After your cleanser, make sure you use your toner. This can be the same one as the morning. It’s to get rid of stray oils. Don’t skip this before you sleep. You’ll have collected various impurities throughout the day that you need to get rid of.

The night is the best time to use your acne treatment. This is optional, of course. If you don’t suffer from breakouts, then you can skip it.

Focusing on acne treatments at night will mean your skin has the chance to soak in all the beneficial ingredients. Your cells regenerate at night, so the ingredients will actively work deeply on them. You only need a little acne treatment on a nightly basis.

Like in the morning, you can now also use a serum. If you have oily skin, you’ll only want to use the serum once a day. It’s best on the night rather than in the morning if you need to choose. This is when your skin goes through the rejuvenating process. If you are going to use a serum twice a day, you can use the same one.

Follow up with a night cream rather than the moisturizing cream. Night creams are thicker and take thetime to absorb into your skin throughout the night. They’re extremely hydrating, taking thetime to work while your cells regenerate. Your skin will feel smooth and soft the next morning.

And of course, you want to apply an eye cream. Use the same one that you did in the morning.

Finally, if you have dry skin, you’ll want a facial oil. You only need to pat this onto your skin and allow the skin to absorb it throughout the night. Oils will get deeper into the pores and work into the collagen and other tissues. You’ll get a deeper hydration.

If you don’t want to buy a facial oil, opt for coconut oil.This is one of the most beneficial natural ingredients because of all the antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Applying Makeup on a Morning

One of the best things for your face is to go makeup free. Of course, the chances of that happening are slim. We want to look our best, and some jobs expect it of us. So, you want to use the right makeup.

Always look for oil-free makeup, especially if you have oily skin. Noncomedogenic options are extremely good for those with acne-prone skin. This type of makeup (and any skin care products) will fight off the causes of acne in your skin. You will suffer far fewer breakouts because of your makeup since they won’t block your pores.

Always use a primer before your foundation. A primer is like a protective layer. It will prevent the foundation from getting into your pores. The foundation sits on top of your skin, where it should, and gives you a fresh look throughout the day. Primers can also offer a way to get rid of some of the shine from your skin care products, making it an option to wear alone.

When using a foundation, look for a thin one. You’re not supposed to be able to feel the makeup on your skin. You shouldn’t feel the weight of it on your cheeks or feel like you can scratch it off your face! This means the foundation is likely blocking your pores, creating the perfect space for acne-causing bacteria to build in.

Try to alternate the days that you wear makeup. Look for days where you can be fresh-faced and neutral. If you suffer from acne, you’ll find going natural will help to clear it all up.

What About Exfoliating?

We’ve mentioned exfoliating once a week, but that’s about it. When you get an exfoliating product, you want to avoid drying, micro-bead technology. These will open your pores and get rid of the dirt, but they will be extremely irritating. There are also questions about what the microbeads do to the environment.

You can make your exfoliating products. Opt for some baking soda or sea salt. Sea salt is one of the best options. It’s hydrating (yes, really) and cleansing. It will kill off the bacteria while leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. Baking soda is brightening to the skin. When you mix both with some lemon juice and yogurt, you get a full exfoliating mask or paste that is deeply nourishing.

Remain gentle when exfoliating. Your face doesn’t need you scrubbing harshly. The skin on your face is fragile and easily ripped. Just running the salt or baking soda over your skin will be enough to remove the dead skin cells, bacteria, and grime.

Make sure you fully remove the exfoliating elements from your face before continuing with any other skin care products. You won’t want a stray particle consistently spreading across your face.

It’s Time to Create Your Skin Care Routine

There are many shows that focus on women spending a lot of time in the bathroom on a morning and night. Our skin care routine is extremely important. You want to live up to the stereotype. Make sure you follow the above steps above on a morning and a night.

Using skin care products isn’t just about cleansing your skin. You want to remove the bacteria, improve the health and nourishment of your skin, and protect the oil production. It’s time to boost the collagen and reduce the sight of scars. You’ll be amazed at how much better your skin will look after a few weeks of following this routine.

The Ultimate Skin Cleanser Cheat Sheet You Should Have

July 29, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

While cleansing your skin is important, you need to make sure you use the right materials. It’s important to get the right products for your type of skin. The aim isn’t just to cleanse but to nourish and support.

Cleaning your skin is more than just getting rid of the dirt and grime. You want to offer as much support to your pores as possible. It’s important to kill the bacteria and help to balance out the natural oils produced.

If you have oily skin, you want something that will help to remove the excess oils. Those types of cleansers would be damaging to already dry skin, where you need excess oils added into your skin to help get rid of theirritating and flaky skin.

So, with that in mind, here’s a look at your ultimate skin cleanser cheat sheet. This will give you all the information you need to make the best cleansing decisions for your skin type.

When Foaming Cleansers Are Worth the Purchase

One of the most common types of cleansers available now is the foamy cleaners. You push a button, and the cleaner comes out almost like a shaving foam.

These types of cleaners are excellent for oily skin. They help to get deep into the pores to remove all the dirt and bacteria that builds up throughout the day. They are also extremely effective on makeup, regardless of how thick you’ve applied it. There’s little chance of the makeup getting stuck in the pores, meaning bacteria forms while you sleep.

While cleansing the skin, the foamy cleansers leave no residue behind. You’ll barely even notice that you’ve used it. Your skin feels fresh and soft, ready to rejuvenate throughout the night.

There is a major downside to foams, though. They are drying on the skin, which is why they’re excellent for oily skin. They will strip the skin of the oils, especially if they’re left to soak into the skin. If you have already dry skin, you will want to avoid the leathers. If the foams have alcohol in the first four ingredients, they have a higher concentration of the ingredient, further drying out the skin.

If you’re worried about dry skin, even if you have naturally greasy skin, you can consider moisturizing creams. Look for oil-free moisturizing creams. Don’t forget to look for foaming cleansers that have salicylic acid to help fight against acne-causing bacteria effectively.

It’s also important to look at the ingredients used to create the foamy texture. Unfortunately, some of the most popular brands use toxins that will damage the cell structure in your skin. There are various carcinogenic ingredients that will increase your risk of cancer. It’s best to find cleansers that use mostly natural ingredients.

Opt for Cleansing Milks for Dry Skin

If you do have dry skin, you’ll want to avoid too many products. They can become irritating, rather than soothe the dry skin condition. This means you want to find a cleanser that doesn’t just get rid of dirt and grime but also improves some oils in your skin.

This is where cleansing milk products are good. They are still as effective as foaming cleansers when it comes to removing dirt. The problem is they can’t always get into the pores to get rid of waterproof makeup. You’ll need to use a different product first to get rid of that and support your skin.

Milkdoesn’t create a lather on the face. Instead, they are extremely gentle on the skin. This is why they don’t quite get rid of all makeup since they’re designed not to affect the deeper layers too much.

Of course, there is a moisturizing benefit. Milk will help to boost the collagen production and improve the hydration within the skin.

If you have oily skin, you may find the hydration is too much. They leave a residue behind, which can cause some problems for excess oil production.

When you want something for dry skin that removes waterproof makeup effectively, you need to consider cleansing oils. These are gentle and can leave a residue behind, but they get deep into the pores. Oils are good for encouraging particles towards them, pulling them gently out of the pores—whatever the type of particles.

There is no lather in oils. You will need to apply them with a sponge or cotton pad, leaving them on for a while to give them a chance to work.

The oils will help to encourage more oil production within the skin. They moisturize the skin, adding hydration into the deeper layers of the skin. This makes it possible to soften and support dry skin. Irritation and flakiness become a thing of the past. There’s no need to use moisturizing creams afterward, unless you have extremely dry skin that requires it.

If you have oily skin, you’ll want to give oils a miss. They add too many extra oils into the skin, without encouraging your own body to stop producing natural oils. Your skin will look and feel greasy and slimy.

Massage the Skin with Cleansing Balms

Another type of skin cleanser you may come across is something called a cleansing balm. This is another excellent option for those with dry skin. It doesn’t just moisturize and clean the skin, but the balm will help to nourish and soothe dry skin conditions.

Cleansing balms will get right into the pores. All bacteria, dirt, and makeup are removed. The balms are high in emollient oils, moisturizing deep into the layers. It doesn’t matter if your skin doesn’t produce that much oil daily.

The oils are best when massaged into your skin. This helps to boost the amount of blood flow circulating into the skin, boosting the collagen production and improving elasticity. The extra blood flow will also help to settle some dry skin conditions, as the moisture locks into the pores and continues to support the hydration of the skin.

There isn’t a lather produced by balms, but they do leave a residue behind. The oils can be too much for those with naturally oily skin. The residue can also be visible, making your skin look greasy and sticky.

One of the good sides of the balms is that they are gentle. Like many of the rest, they can be good for those with sensitive skin, while cleansing deeply.

Micellar Waters for Those with Sensitive Skin

If your skin is sensitive, you want something that is soft and gentle. While three of the options above are gentle and hydrating for the skin, they can still include toxins and acids that make sensitive skin irritated and itchy.

You want to find something that is cleansing but extremely soft. This is where Micella Water comes into play. This is a cleanser that doesn’t need rinsing off. You just have to let the ingredients get to work on your skin throughout the day. Because it doesn’t need rinsing, it won’t leave a residue behind and doesn’t lather, either.

It’s hydrating on the skin but doesn’t leave too many oils behind. It’s good for those with either oily or dry skin that is sensitive or if you suffer from some skin conditions.

The downside is the fact that it can be too gentle. While it will get rid of dirt, many will struggle with removing makeup—even non-waterproof makeup. The cleanser doesn’t get deep enough or draw out the makeup particles as well as some of the other options above.

Cleansing Wipes for On the Go

What if you need something for traveling or when you’re in an emergency? Well, cleansing wipes are worth having in your bag. But you don’t want to rely on them for everyday use.

Cleansing wipes can be gentle for sensitive skin, but they’re sometimes too gentle. They can also be drying on the skin, drawing out the oils as well as all the dirt and grime. They’re not cleansing and aren’t the most efficient option for removing makeup.

This can depend on the type of wipes you get, though. Some are designed to remove waterproof makeup so that your normal cleaners can get into the pores and get rid of the smaller particles. Others are designed to tone or moisturize your skin, rather than effectively clean it.

Some of the cloths will leave a residue behind. Many are infused with lotions and oils. The benefit is you don’t need to rinse your face afterward. So, if you are traveling and need something a little refreshing or cleansing, then this could be an option.

Don’t use them if you have irritating or itchy skin or some skin conditions. The wipes require some friction and scrubbing to get rid of the dirt and particles. This can irritate your conditions further and make your skin itchier than before.

Watch Out for Soaps

Bars of soap was once the most popular option for cleaning the face. It’s unlikely that you’ll see many brands today only offering soaps because the ingredients used react in the wrong way on the skin.

Soaps are drying to the skin. They strip and disrupt the natural oil production. Even those with oily skin can find their face and body are left irritated and itchy. The skin loses some of its protective barriers due to the high pH levels, meaning that the skin becomes more sensitive and damaged.

They can be effective for cleansing the skin. It is possible to get deep into the pores, but that’s not worth it when your skin is left painful and raw.

If you do use soap, make sure you have a nutritious moisturizing cream or oil afterward. Consider coconut oil to help balance the natural oils again and offer some protection back to the skin.

Think Carefully About Exfoliating Products

There are plenty of exfoliating products on the market. These are a hit and miss regarding effectiveness and efficiency.

You don’t need to exfoliate your skin on a daily basis. In fact, you want to exfoliate only once or twice a week, whatever type of skin you have. In fact, if you have sensitive skin you can skip exfoliating weekly and leave it to something once or twice a month.

Exfoliating removes the dirt and grime from deep within the pores. It will get rid of the bacteria but also gets rid of the oils. You can be left with dry and irritated skin. This is especially the case if you use exfoliating products with microbeads and particles.

If you want to exfoliate, considering making your cleansers. Baking soda or sea salt can be good. They moisturize and nourish the skin while cleansing thoroughly and brightening the skin.

Watch Out for Anti-Acne and Anti-Aging Cleaners

If you want a product that fights against acne and aging, you want to look for moisturizing creams. It’s time to avoid the cleaners.

The downside of these is that they don’t stay on the face long enough. You rinse themoff because they have a chance to effectively work on the cells or get rid of all the bacteria in your skin. All you end up with is dry and irritated skin.

There are plenty of creams and toners you can use instead. Apply them before you go to bed to help give them the chance to soak into your skin. Avoid the cleansers because they just don’t work—and they certainly don’t cleanse!

Look After Your Skin with the Right Productions

Think about the type of products you buy for cleansing your skin. Don’t take too much notice about the marketing ploys on the front of the products. It’s the type of cleanser you want to consider—whether it’s foamy, oil, or a balm.

Each type of material will affect your skin in different ways. Some are perfect for drying out the excess oils, making them irritating for those with already dry skin. Others will add extra oils in, making them bad for those with greasy skin.

Use the guide above, and you will find the perfect skin cleanser for your needs.

13 Overnight Beauty Tips For Young Females

July 28, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

Being young usually means bad skin. You’re not alone. Every female suffers from the annoyingly pimply skin. This is all due to the hormones in your body. Imbalanced hormones lead to extra oil production (even though your skin doesn’t need it) and cell disruption.

While it’s all normal, it doesn’t mean you must put up with it. As a young female, there are steps that you can take to improve the look and feel of your skin. We know how busy your day is, so you want something overnight that will help to protect and rejuvenate your skin. These 13 overnight beauty tips are the ones that you want to follow from now on.

Look After Your Hair Overnight

Let’s start with your hair. Overnight, you can add moisture and nourishment to it. But you also want to make sure it remains away from your face. A lot of oils on your face will come from your hair touching it! If you put oils in your hair overnight, you’ll want to protect your body from oil transfer.

The oils will transfer to your pillow and then to your face, meaning you get transfer even if you tie your hair up. Opt for covering for your hair, such as a soft pillowcase to wrap around your hair. This allows you to use a leave-in conditioner on your damp hair before you go to bed and allow it to soak right in throughout the night.

Wrapping your hair will also protect your pillowcases. It means you don’t need to wash your sheets every single night!

When you wake up the next morning, rinse the oils off your hair.

If you’re not going to use an oil on your hair (especially if you have naturally oily hair), then consider wrapping your hair up in a loose braid with a scarf or pillowcase. This just helps to keep the natural oils away from your face overnight for clearer skin. You’ll also get beautiful natural waves the next morning!

Protect Your Hands with Cotton Gloves

Wear some cotton gloves on your hands overnight. The cotton will allow your skin to breathe and avoid irritation on the skin. You’ll want to use a hand cream on your hands first. The gloves prevent the transfer of the cream onto your body and sheets while helping to build a little heat to increase the absorption rate of the cream into your hands.

This beauty tip will leave your dry hands smooth and soft the next morning. You can even get rid of some cracking that is caused by the skin getting too dehydrated.

If your hands get too hot overnight, you may want to avoid the gloves. The problem with this is the cream can transfer, making your face greasy. Use the gloves through the winter only, when your hands are likely to suffer the worst dryness and irritation.

Nourish Your Feet

Like your hands, your feet need some nourishment through the night. You can follow the same tips above but on your feet instead, using cotton socks to help you sleep. Your feet will be soft and ready for action the next morning.

Before you apply the cream, use an exfoliating scrubber to remove the dead skin from your feet. Your dead skin is stopping the cream absorbing into the fresher layers underneath. When you get rid of the dead skin, you improve the speed at which your feet will become more nourished and soft.

If you suffer from overheating overnight, skip the socks. Cotton is good for making it easier for the skin to breathe, but you can still get a little too hot! The benefit of your feet is their location. The transfer of creams to your face will be much harder.

Adopt the Best Sleeping Position for Your Skin

Your body will be affected by the position you sleep. This isn’t just about your muscles, but about your skin health! You need to find the right sleeping position.

Sleeping on your front may be comfortable, but it’s doing nothing for your face and wrinkles. Gravity pulls your skin in your face down. You’re more likely to suffer from lines along your face and may even find more puffy sections appear under the eyes. This is especially problematic if you stick to the same position every single night.

Rolling onto your back will help you avoid facial lines. The side can be good, but you may have facial lines on one side. If you struggle with comfort when sleeping on your back, place a few extra pillows under your head. This will boost your head up and prevent fluid from flowing to the back of your mouth and nose.

Change your positions regularly. You can sleep on your front now and then, but don’t do it every single night.

Make Sure You Get Enough Sleep

This is the easiest beauty tip in theory. However, putting it in practice is genuinely hard. There are so many things stopping us from getting a good night’s sleep right. As a young female, you have exam stresses, work worries, and financial fears. Your mind is working overtime when you should be relaxing.

And then there are those all-nighters that you need to pull. You need to write your research papers or cram for an upcoming exam. Sleep is the last thing on your mind, especially good quality sleep.

It’s time to put sleep first. Work out a routine that works for you. Get your body ready for bed by going through the same routine night after night. And make sure you avoid your phone in bed! The LED screen is doing your eyes and brain no favors at all.

Getting enough quality sleep will help to get rid of the bags under your eyes. You’ll feel fresher, and your stress hormones will dip to allow more happy hormones to be released.

Store Your Eye Cream in the Fridge

You want the eye cream you apply to be cold. The best way to get that is by storing it in the fridge. Pull it out for use just before you go to bed and put it right back in. The cooling effect will help to reduce further the dark spots forming under your eyes and reduce the pressure from throughout the day more.

Storing your cream in the fridge will also improve its longevity. This is especially the case if you make your natural eye cream, such as those with avocados.

If you don’t have cream, now is the time to get some. There’s no time too early to look after the skin around your eyes. Avocado or almond oil is good for a direct application if you’re not interested in the over the counter products.

Think About Changing Your Pillowcases

We’ve already looked at the problem with leaving oily hair on your pillowcases overnight. Your pillowcases protect your pillows from the oil, bacteria, and skin transfer that happens throughout the night. Even dirt that may be left over from your pores will get onto the pillowcase during the night.

The oils and bacteria stick around through the day and then transfer back to your face. You get a build-up that clogs your pores and makes bad skin and acne even worse.

So, you want to get rid of the problem right away. That means changing your pillowcases regularly. You should change them at least once a week. You could flip to the other side, but you’re not completely removing the problem. When you wash regularly, you get rid of the bacteria and dirt that builds up.

The ideal rotation is having one pillowcase on your bed, one in the drawer’s ready for use, and one in the wash. You can have more if you want, but you don’t want any less!

Opt for the Right Type of Pillowcase

Now that you have your cleaning schedule worked out, it’s time to stock up on the right type of pillowcases. Silk or satin cases are highly advantageous to your skin. Sure, they cost a little extra money, but it’s worth it for the flawless and bright skin. You’ll also feel luxurious throughout the night.

Silk and satin are soft on your skin while helping your skin breathe throughout the night. They don’t crease throughout the night, so there are no crease marks imprinted on your skin the next morning. There’s no friction while you sleep, causing damage to the fragile skin on your face. Silk is also good for the hair, reducing split ends.

Use Coconut Oil More Often

If you haven’t started using coconut oil on your skin, you want to get it now. It’s not just moisturizing for the skin (although that is a major benefit) but it’s nourishing. Coconut oil is full of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

It will get into your pores, cleaning out the bacteria that grow in there. You’ll get rid of the whole reason for acne forming on the skin. You’ll support the collagen production while reducing the redness of any acne or blemishes that you do have.

This is also something worth using on your hair. It will leave your hair conditioned overnight. Just make sure you wrap your hair with a scarf to prevent transfer onto your pillowcase and skin.

You can add some lemon juice or honey to your coconut oil to create a soft moisturizing cream. The other two ingredients will kill more bacteria and support the health of your skin cells. You get rid of the dead skin cells on the top layers of your skin, making way for healthier and brighter options.

Whiten Your Teeth Overnight

While this isn’t quite skin care, it is an overnight beauty tip that you want to follow. Most whitening products need to be left on for a few hours, so it’s worth doing it overnight to get uninterrupted whitening time.

If you want to stay away from the chemicals, there are natural products that you can use to whiten your teeth. Baking soda and turmeric are two popular options. Both will work better when you consume no food straight after, so you’ll want to use them when you know you won’t need to eat for a long period—overnight!

Make sure you rinse them from your teeth after using the two products. They can cause some damage to the enamel on your teeth if not cleaned properly before you sleep.

Invest in a Humidifier

Your skin needs to avoid dry heat to get a luxurious glow. When you sleep, you will likely have the heating turned up and the windows shut, especially in the winter. To make your young skin glow, you want to invest in a humidifier.

This helps to add moisture back into the air. The moisture will get into the upper layers of your skin, preventing the growth of bacteria in the pores. You can reduce the amount of acne that you suffer from.

You’ll also get a better night’s sleep using a humidifier. Dry heat often leads us waking up uncomfortable in the middle of the night, so the quality of your sleep is affected. We already know poor quality sleep will lead to bad skin and dark patches under the eyes!

Give Yourself an Overnight Manicure and Pedicure

Your nail beds are often overlooked. They tend to get dry, which makes them painful to touch. This can affect the quality of your nails. You want to protect them as much as possible through moisturizing creams.

Instead of getting a chemical-filled product, get a little coconut oil and massage directly into your nail beds. Leave it on throughout the night. If you have used a little too much, just pop some cotton gloves on and allow the coconut oil to soak right in and nourish your nails.

The antifungal benefits of coconut oil will also help to treat deep-infested fungal nail infections. It can also be good for treating athlete’s foot and other similar fungal conditions.

Get Enough Water Throughout the Day

Moisturizing your whole body is essential, which means you need to get enough water throughout the day. Having a glass before you go to bed will allow the water to work while you sleep. You can have another bottle of water sitting on your bedside table to drink through the night if you wake up thirsty.

But you don’t just want to do that. You need to hydrate your upper layers of the skin by moisturizing. Coconut oil is one of the best options, but don’t forget about the skin on your lips. Some lip balm is essential.

Cleanse the Skin Before You Sleep

Use a cleanser before you go to sleep and let your skin benefit from a fresh feeling while you sleep. Your skin will have a lot affecting it throughout the day, even if you don’t use makeup. The sun’s rays will cause cellular problems and dark spots forming. Your sunscreen to prevent that will get into the pores. Moisturizing creams can cause pore blockages, while makeup will lead to bacteria growth.

And then there’s the dirt and grime that you pick up throughout the day. Or you have natural oils collecting throughout the day.

You want to use a gentle, oil-free cleanser on your face before you go to bed. Finish off with an oil-free moisturizing cream and allow it to soak in throughout the night. You’ll find you have softer, clearer skin the next morning.

Protect Your Young Skin for Better Results as You Age

Now is the right time to protect your skin. Environmental damage, sun damage, and makeup all lead to the skin cells and tissues aging prematurely. You end up with fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes earlier than you would like. It’s time to prevent them happening with some simple tips.

The 13 above are all those that you can apply just before you go to bed. While you sleep, your body has the chance to absorb all the nutrients and benefits. There’s nothing you mustdo, and you wake up with fresher, cleaner, and brighter skin.

Create a routine, and you’ll find that your body unwinds on a night. You’ll sleep better, aiding your whole health.

The Ultimate List of Best Drugstore Make Up For Acne-Prone Skin

July 26, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

If you have terrible acne or you suffer from breakouts for the slightest of reasons, you will want to avoid a lot of makeup. It’s heavy, and pore clogging, meaning bacteria builds and you end up with more breakouts. It can seem like you either must go “aunatural” or look out for natural remedies that you end up making yourself.

Well, it’s time to avoid the fuss. There are certain types of makeup that are good for acne-prone skin. It’s all about getting the right brands and looking out for the right wording on the products.

Here’s a look at all the best drug store makeup to opt for the next time you need something for acne-prone skin.

Look Out for “Noncomedogenic” Makeup

Whatever brand you choose, you want to make sure it is “noncomedogenic.” Makeup with this property will make a big deal about it because it’s so good for acne-prone skin. It’s also something for those who are more focused on removing the toxins out of their makeup.

It means that the makeup is good for oily, greasy skin. The makeup will be light and won’t clog the pores. There is little chance of bacteria collecting within the pores because of this, so less acne forming on your skin. You also won’t feel it, so there’s little chance of scratching or discomfort throughout the day.

You also want to look out for makeup that is oil-free. This is exactly as it sounds. The makeup doesn’t have added oils and is water based. It won’t react with your natural oil production.

If your skin is acne-prone, there are high chances that it is oily. This doesn’t mean dirty! It just means your skin produce more oils than necessary and those oils must go somewhere. They escape across your face, giving you an annoying shiny glow. The oils block the pores, so you end up with more bacteria and more acne!

Sulfate-free and paraben-free are other terms that are worth looking out for. These types of makeup aren’t just good for reducing acne but will also keep toxins out of your body!

Avoid anything that has lanolin oil, lauric acid, and coconut butter. These clog the pores and make your acne so much worse. Some toxins will also irritate your skin, making it dry and inflamed. You’ll just end up with puffy skin and more acne.

So, which brands and products are oil-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic? These are the brands that you want.

Get the Giorgio Armani Power Fabric Foundation

Let’s start with the foundation on your face. There are a few options available, including one from Giorgio Armani. This is one of the newest foundations on the market and has a matte texture, so you get rid of the shiny glow. After all, if you already have oily skin, you don’t need anything extra adding a glow to your face!

The foundation will keep your face shine-free throughout the day. It doesn’t get into the pores, and you’ll barely tell that you’re wearing it. It’s an excellent option for those who want a foundation that works from dusk until dawn without reapplication.

Use a Couple of Drops of Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation

This excellent option is good for a brief cover for a night out and all-day coverage. It’s a liquid foundation, which gives you a little extra control over the amount that you use. You really won’t need that much to spread across the face and unify the complexion.

It’s another matte foundation, meaning no shininess throughout the day. It’s a water-based option, and it will feel like that. You’ll just be able to brush it across your face and allow it to soak in without blocking the pore.

This water-based option can also help to add some hydration to the skin. Your body won’t feel the need to produce more oils throughout the day because it doesn’t feel dried out from your makeup.

Choose Matte Foundation from BareMinerals

Considering Foundation is on most of your face, it makes sense to have a few options for your acne-prone skin. Matte Foundation from BareMinerals is an excellent option when you want a powder that feels like you’re wearing cream. It easily sweeps across the skin, getting rid of that slick, greasy feeling of most cream-like foundations.

The foundation works with the pores to create beautiful skin. It smoothens the pores out and avoids any clogging. There are also 30 different shade options, so you know you will get something that works with your skin complexion.

There are some minerals added into the foundation. This helps to add extra health benefits to your skin.

Get Neutrogena for the Salicylic Acid

If you want to clear up your acne while wearing makeup, you want to get Skin Clearing Liquid Makeup from Neutrogena. You likely know the brand for its skin caring and cleaning products. It’s one of the highest recommended by celebrities around the world because it does work.

Well, the makeup is just the same. It has some of the same ingredients as the cleaning products to make sure your face is left fresh and acne free.

It’s all in the salicylic acid. If you see any skin care product with this acid in, you want to snap it up for your acne. The acid is a good one, as it gets right into the pores and kills off the specific bacteria that cause acne on the skin. Yes, this includes cystic acne!

The makeup itself is oil free and lightweight. You’ll barely feel it on your skin, as it smoothens out the pores and leaves you with an even complexion without blocking the pores.

Get Medium Coverage with Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation from Maybelline

One of the most popular makeup brands is good for acne-prone skin. Maybelline works on offering something for all. When it comes to an acne problem, you want to get the Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation.

The foundation offers a medium coverage that doesn’t get into your fine lines or pores. Rather than making imperfections stand out, it helps to cover them up. You’ll get rid of the shine later in the day thanks to this foundation, meaning oily skin becomes a problem of the past. The pores remain free, so there is little chance of bacteria growing within them.

Meanwhile, you get good, even coverage. It’s extremely easy to apply, and your skin will look smooth and flawless.

Go for the Second Favourite Makeup Company

If you’re not a fan of Maybelline, you may be a fan of the second favorite makeup company: L’Oréal. For acne-prone skin, you want to get the Pro-Matte Foundation, which is another medium-coverage option.

Like the Maybelline option, it won’t get right into the pores or the fine lines. You end up with a smooth look throughout the day.

It can also prevent the oils shining through later in the day. It’s time to get rid of the tissues since you won’t need to dab at your skin to tackle the excess oil production.

Reduce Redness with Forever Perfect Makeup

The next makeup to look out for is the Diorskin Forever Perfect Makeup. It’s another foundation that will cover your face in a thin and lightweight layer. Your enlarged pores will look smaller, and the redness disappears.

This will mean that you can get rid of those Instagram filters. It’s like Photoshop but in real life!

You will need to blend the makeup gently into your face. When you finish with your brushes, wash them or dispose of the one-use application pads.

Get a Matte Skin Tint Instead

If you hate foundation, you can opt to skip it if you want. That doesn’t mean you must avoid all uniform coloring across your face. You can get Nars Velvet Matte Skin Tint instead.

It technically is a foundation, but it doesn’t feel like it. It’s more like a tinted cream for your face, offering a lightweight option that you can’t feel. There’s nothing worse than feeling the makeup hanging off your skin, especially when it’s acne prone!

The formula is extremely hydrating. It supports the natural plumpness of your skin. It also remains matte throughout the day, while many other foundations (including the ones above) can end up watery and shiny later in the afternoon.

Because of the sheer texture, it will be better for those with minimal acne at the time. The benefit is the lack of pore clogging that can create more acne.

Get Foundation to Fight the Acne

We’ve already looked at a brand that offers salicylic acid to fight bacteria, but what about one that has the acid with some aloe vera, witch hazel, and tea tree oil? Yes, you can buy something like this from the drug store! It’s time to look out for E.L.F. Acne Fighting Foundation.

Aloe vera and tea tree oil are extremely good for nourishing the skin. They add vitamin E and moisture into the skin, helping to support the growth of healthy skin cells, reduce damage from the sun and free radicals, and promote collagen growth. You’ll get better-elasticised skin that’s firmer and plumper.

Let’s not forget about the benefits of witch hazel. This will get into the pores and kill off bacteria. It gets rid of the dirt and grime, protecting against any reason for acne build up. The witch hazel can also help to fight other skin issues, including psoriasis and inflammation.

Most other foundations will eventually dry out the skin. That doesn’t happen with E.L.F because of the aloe vera and tea tree oil.

You Still Need Good Brush Care

It’s not all about the products that you use. While the makeup options above are good for acne-prone skin, they won’t completely get rid of the problem. There is still the chance of bacteria growth. Rather than the bacteria growing on the skin, they grow on the makeup brushes and transfer onto the skin and into the pores.

So, you need good brush care to eliminate these extra issues.

Yes, you do want to use sponges, pads or brushes. Don’t apply your makeup with your fingers. Not only do your fingers make it harder to get an even coverage all over, but you end up touching your face. The oil, dirt, and bacteria on your hands (even if you’ve just washed them, they’re there) will pass into your pores.

If you are going to use disposable makeup pad applicators, you will need to get rid of them after each use. This will eliminate all chance of bacteria passing back into your pores.

When it comes to brushes, make sure they’re clean. Wash them two or three times a week, especially if you apply your makeup daily. If you only use your makeup once or twice a week, you will get away with cleaning the brushes less often.

Clean right into the base of the bristles. This is where your skin cells, bacteria, and oils will gather in between uses.

Make Sure You Wash the Makeup Off

Like any other type of makeup, you need to wash these acne-prone options off at the end of the day. Don’t sleep with your foundation still on, even if it is full of aloe vera and witch hazel! This will end up causing a blockage within your pores. Your skin doesn’t get to breathe, and you end up breaking out in more acne.

You’ll want to use a gentle toner or cleanser to remove the makeup. Make sure it has some witch hazel or salicylic acid to help get rid of all the bacteria that causes acne.

There’s no need to put up with the toxins in most drug store makes. This doesn’t mean you must make all your foundations and toners. There are good options for acne-prone skin. Choose the above foundations and skin tints, while following good brush and application care.

The Best Vitamin C Serums For Younger, Brighter Skin – Infographic

July 25, 2017 by Arianne Leave a Comment

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