Health Blog
Health Blog
3 simple tips against smelly feet & armpits
When it starts to smell bad, that's when bacteria thrive. Nothing dangerous, but maybe not so pleasant. Here are three simple tips on what you can do about smelly feet and armpits. 1. Wash with something other than soap Soaps and shower gels are alkaline, and bacteria thrive best in alkaline environments. Therefore, do not wash your armpits or feet with soap if you have odor problems. Instead, wash with something acidic like apple cider vinegar or lemon. You can also wash with an antibacterial oil like coconut oil. Then wipe off the oil with a damp towel. Here you can read about 15 ways to use coconut oil as a multi-purpose product. 2. Use balancing sprays Sage water is pH-balancing on the skin. It is also antibacterial, so it’s perfect to spray on armpits and feet after washing. This restores the pH and keeps bacteria in check. We also have a good spray that counteracts odor from Gröna Gredelina. It freshens up everything from gym shoes and boxing gloves to yoga mats. 3. Use organic deodorant Organic deodorants are effective without blocking the sweat function. Eco deodorants reduce sweating and prevent bad odor. For feet, cream deodorant works very well. Natural deo has a foot deodorant in cream form. A very thin layer is enough and it is incredibly effective. Odylique’s deodorant spray works just as well in shoes as under the arms since the formula uses a combination of botanical ingredients with antibacterial properties to absorb moisture and herbal extracts to naturally stop bacteria.
Read moreFind the right organic face mask for your skin type
Too much sun, a nutrient-poor diet, and too little sleep can throw your skin out of balance. Face masks quickly restore radiance and firmness to the skin. It’s a “quick fix” we welcome with open arms. There are many varieties for all needs and purposes. Often, when a face mask doesn’t have a good effect, it’s because the wrong type was chosen for your skin. We clarify the different types so you can easily find the perfect face mask. Something common to our organic face masks is that: they provide intensive treatment with quickly visible or noticeable results. they contain active and/or nourishing ingredients that specifically target a skin problem. they never contain petroleum-based ingredients. These make the skin immediately soft and smooth but clog pores and can cause problems in the long run. Hydrating mask that gives radiance to dry skin The sun dries out the skin and weakens its barrier protection. A hydrating mask replenishes moisture and strengthens the barrier. The hydrating mask contains ingredients that boost the skin’s moisture level and make it soft and supple. Radiance returns, and with improved hydration, dryness lines also diminish. A hydrating mask can be used by all skin types. It is especially suitable for those with skin that: feels tight and dry. has lost its radiance. feels lifeless. has fine lines. 100% Pure Green tea water bomb mask consists of “hydrogel,” i.e., 95% organic aloe juice and 5% plant cellulose and plant extracts. The mask has a gel-like consistency and is firm enough to be easy to apply. Evolve Gold Face Mask is a mask that counteracts signs of aging while hydrating your skin and giving it radiance. Rose Quartz Facial Polish is a wonderful, pink exfoliating scrub and mask that leaves the skin nourished, soft, and crystal clear. Anti-age mask that revitalizes and firms tired skin An anti-age mask supplies the skin with moisture, oils, and active ingredients. It hydrates, revitalizes, and regenerates the skin. An anti-age mask is suitable for skin that: has lost its firmness. looks tired and dull. has fine lines. has a dull complexion. Evolve Miracle C Vitamin Mask is an exfoliating face mask. It contains maca, AHA acids (2.5%), and plant collagens that give new energy and glow to your face. Evolve Radiant Glow 2-in-1 Mask Scrub is an award-winning exfoliating face mask. A combination of raw cocoa powder, coconut granules, and clay that leaves the skin silky smooth with a beautiful glow. BYBI Acid Gold is an exfoliating and deep-cleansing face mask that gives the skin new radiance and clarity. Acid Gold contains a blend of natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), including lactic acid (derived from blueberry extract). Clay mask that deeply cleanses impure skin There are many different types of clays, and what they have in common is that they are rich in minerals and have an absorbing effect. There are clay masks for all skin types, but they are especially suitable if you have: oily skin. impure skin or acne. clogged skin. dull skin. Dr Sannas clay mask contains clay, spirulina, and red algae. It is suitable for anyone who wants a cleansing face mask. Eco by Sonya Face Compost Mask is a beautifully purple, antioxidant-rich treatment mask with clay and acai, perfect for all skin types. Loelle’s face masks are made only of clay and suit different skin types. Red for normal to dry skin. White for sensitive skin. Green for impure, combination, and clogged skin. A bonus is that they also work for hair washing. Evolve True Balance SOS Mask is a beautifully green clay face mask that contains, among other things, Noni extract, Moringa, and Salix alba, which is a natural form of salicylic acid. Sheet mask for an effective one-time treatment A sheet mask is a single-use mask made of a cloth soaked in a serum that is easily absorbed by the skin. The mask is shaped to fit the face with openings for eyes, nose, and mouth. It is recommended to leave it on for 10-20 minutes. 100% Pure offers sheet masks for several different skin types. They are 100% natural and truly an effective quick treatment that is also fun to use. Sante’s face masks last for two applications. They come in different varieties for different skin types. After use, you massage the remaining serum into the skin. Multimasking for a customized treatment Multimasking means applying different masks specially tailored to each area of the skin. This gives you a more precise treatment for each area’s needs. For example, you can use a balancing and deep-cleansing mask on the T-zone, hydration on the cheeks, and extra care under the eyes. Mask on and good luck!
Read moreNatural hair mask for dry hair & sensitive scalp
Do you have dry hair? Maybe an itchy or oily scalp? Does it get worse during autumn and winter? Then an oil treatment might help. DIY: Make your own oil treatment Start by choosing an oil. More well-known oils for hair include argan oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, almond oil, castor oil, sesame oil, rosehip oil, and avocado oil. Less known are the African baobab, marula oil, moringa oil, camellia oil, carrot oil, black cumin oil, and macadamia oil. But all are suitable as hair oils. Apply the oil directly to the scalp and hair or only to the scalp. Wait 30 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild, natural shampoo and conditioner. DIY: Warm oil treatment It’s also easy to make your own warm hair treatment, which is very nourishing and pleasant. Warm your chosen oil on low heat and apply it to the hair (not too hot), both on the scalp and all the way to the ends. Wait 30 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild, natural shampoo and conditioner. DIY: Mix your own hair oil with different herbs, scents & oils Add 3 tablespoons of oil to a saucepan. You can choose one type of base oil or make a blend, for example 1 tablespoon jojoba, 1 tablespoon coconut, and 1 tablespoon castor oil. Pour the oils into a saucepan, set to low heat, and add 1 tablespoon of your chosen herbs (see list below). Let it infuse for about 30 minutes on very low heat, stirring often. Add more oils or essential scents (see list below). Then strain the oil into a small glass container using, for example, a coffee filter or a fine mesh strainer. You can store the oil for up to three months in a tightly sealed glass bottle or jar. Add oils & scents 3-5 drops of essential oils such as rosemary, lavender, tea tree, or peppermint. Essential oils have different qualities and can, for example, help soothe an itchy scalp. 1 teaspoon rosehip oil – reduces hair loss and moisturizes. 1 teaspoon carrot oil – promotes hair growth. 1 teaspoon black cumin oil – reduces hair loss and moisturizes. 1 teaspoon aloe vera – moisturizes. 1 teaspoon neem oil – good for combating dandruff/itchiness. Add herbs (dried or extracts) To strengthen hair: chamomile, nettle, horsetail, or burdock. To cleanse hair (e.g., for scalp issues): rosemary, parsley, sage, or witch hazel. To stimulate hair growth: peppermint, parsley, sage, chamomile, ginger, or cinnamon. Suitable for most: calendula, chamomile, lavender, or dried rose petals.
Read more9 benefits of cold-pressed jojoba oil for skin & hair
Why is jojoba oil so popular? The list of reasons could go on forever, but here are some! What is jojoba oil? Jojoba oil is actually not an oil but a type of liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the jojoba bush. 9 benefits of using jojoba oil It makes the skin silky smooth without being too greasy, so it suits most skin types. Does not clog pores and is popular even for combination/oily skin. Some say jojoba oil balances sebum production, thereby reducing acne and other impurities. Mild and soothing on sensitive skin, such as dry and cracked skin. Perfect for removing stubborn makeup. Natural sun protection factor 4. Excellent moisturizer and softener for problematic skin, e.g., those with atopic eczema. Many find it relieves and even helps clear eczema. Many use it as a hair treatment to add moisture, softness, and shine. Some use the oil as is, while others create their own blends to suit specific hair types. Very good for dry and split ends. Good for dry scalp, seborrhea, and even dandruff. Have we missed any uses of jojoba oil? Please share your tips!
Read moreSwitch to organic shampoo? 4 tips for better results
Many people choose to gradually replace their bathroom cabinet contents with more sustainable options. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon that when switching to an organic natural shampoo, you suddenly get dirty, greasy, and dull hair. But don’t give up! There are a few important things you should consider when switching to a natural shampoo. 1) Avoid products with non-water-soluble chemicals A naturally pure shampoo does not contain strong detergents like SLS/SL. Therefore, organic and natural shampoos cannot wash away non-water-soluble chemicals from your other hair products. This means you need to carefully check all your hair products, from styling products to conditioners. When using a natural shampoo, your other hair products must not contain silicones (dimethicone) or mineral oils (paraffin), i.e., substances that are not water-soluble. Since your new organic and natural shampoo cannot wash away these substances, they will gradually clog your scalp. Your hair will then become lifeless, stiff, and covered with chemicals. 2) Clean thoroughly with your old shampoo Your old shampoo, which lathers a lot and contains strong detergents like SLS, can remove non-water-soluble substances from your other styling products. This way, you can “reset” your hair and scalp with your conventional shampoo and then use your organic shampoo at the next wash. However, remember to keep your hair free from non-water-soluble chemicals afterward. Throw away all non-natural products. 3) “Reset” your hair with a vinegar rinse If your old shampoo contains non-water-soluble chemicals or silicones, or if it has gotten to the point where your scalp itches or you are even losing hair, a conventional shampoo rarely helps to clean properly. You then need to rinse your hair and scalp with apple cider vinegar. It restores the pH balance, removes chemicals, and gives your hair shine. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse Dilute about 1-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Rinse your hair with the diluted vinegar after shampooing. Then use conditioner as usual. 4) Find the right shampoo for your hair type Just like conventional shampoos, there is a wide range of organic and natural shampoos. It may be that the shampoo you have chosen does not work for your specific hair type. Feel free to ask us, and we will help you find a shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair and needs. Or you can try different ones until you find the right one. Keep testing until you find 2-3 different ones you like so you can alternate shampoos. There are several signs that it’s time to change shampoo!
Read more5 natural uses for neem oil in the home
This Indian oil has a long tradition. Neem as a plant has been used for many different purposes for more than 4500 years. A neem tree (Azadirachta Indica) can grow up to 25 meters tall and can live up to 200 years. The neem tree, called "the village pharmacy" in its homeland India and "the tree with 40 cures" in Africa, contains more than 100 separate chemical compounds that help explain its enormous potential. Because of neem's extraordinary properties, its bark, leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruit pulp are used to treat a wide range of health issues. The cold-pressed oil is extracted from the tree's seed kernels. The oil is thick in consistency and has a distinctive strong scent that some may be sensitive to. If you are curious about studies on neem, you can find lots of interesting information here. We love multifunctional products, and neem oil is one of them. Here are five tips on how to use it. 1. Natural insect repellent against pests and aphids It’s frustrating when your chili plant or a favorite plant gets visited by tiny bugs. But with neem oil, you can naturally get rid of them. Insects and pests usually refuse to eat any plant coated with neem oil. It is a naturally safe and biodegradable product widely used as an insecticide in various parts of the world. Instead of killing pests, neem oil controls them through a variety of methods, including simply repelling them and disrupting metamorphosis. The neem tree is almost never attacked by insects, but bees flock to its flowers for nectar, and birds can eat its ripe fruits. DIY: Natural insect repellent The mixture can be used on both indoor and outdoor plants, but be careful if you have ladybugs, as it can harm them. Mix 1 tsp neem oil with ½ tsp soap in 1 liter of water. Pour into a spray bottle and spray on your plants. You can also spray on the soil and around the stem. 2. Combat dandruff Dandruff or itchy scalp is no fun. But neem oil’s properties soothe and help the scalp regain better balance and reduce itching. Mix a few drops of neem oil into your shampoo or conditioner. Massage in and leave for a few minutes, then rinse out. Repeat regularly until the problem disappears. There are also plenty of ready-made shampoos and conditioners containing neem oil, such as 100% Pure Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner. 3. Foot care – nail and foot fungus Fungus on feet and nails can be stubborn. Neem oil’s antifungal properties can be helpful. Make a foot bath. Add 5-10 drops of neem oil to warm water and stir, then sit and relax for a while. For deeper foot care, you can make an oil blend to rub on your feet afterward. Mix 70 ml safflower oil and 30 ml neem oil, add 10 drops of tea tree essential oil, and blend in a bottle. Apply to your feet and let the mixture absorb into the skin. Store the mixture in a dark, cool place. 4. Minor wounds and skin irritations For external treatment, neem seed oil, leaves, and bark are used in India. Neem seed oil has a very beneficial effect on several types of skin problems and is used, among other things, for treating red rashes, psoriasis, dry skin, and especially itching. For minor wounds, scrapes, and skin irritations, neem oil’s properties can be helpful. Mix neem oil with a more fluid vegetable oil such as safflower oil. Use about one-tenth neem oil in the mixture. Apply the mixture over the affected area. 5. Anti-mosquito Mosquitoes dislike the scent of neem oil. Mix coconut oil with about one-tenth neem oil. If you want to mask the scent of neem oil, you can add a few drops of essential oil (2 drops/10 ml mixture). Suggested options are lavender or lemon eucalyptus, whose scents insects and ticks dislike. Apply to exposed areas of the body. Keep in mind Neem oil has a very strong scent, so it’s good to mix it with essential oils. Neem oil is thick and can solidify at temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius. To make it more fluid, gently warm it in a water bath. Neem oil should not be used on small children, by pregnant women, or while breastfeeding. Neem oil tastes really, really bad, so avoid getting it in your mouth. How do you use neem oil? Feel free to share and inspire others with a comment!
Read moreMake your own natural body scrub at home
Do you want to take extra good care of yourself or make a homemade gift for someone you care about? Making your own body scrub is both fun and easy. It gives you the chance to experience a bit of luxury in your own bathroom and spend some much-needed me-time. Here we share four different recipes! DIY: Salt Scrub for Relaxation 2.5 dl Epsom salt (a natural source of magnesium). 0.5 dl olive oil, almond oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil. 1 tsp liquid castile soap. 10 drops of essential lavender oil (you can also use dried lavender flowers). Mix all ingredients in a bowl and add essential oils until the desired scent is achieved. Store in an airtight glass jar and use to scrub your feet or body when you shower or take a foot bath. DIY: Invigorating Salt Scrub 2.5 dl Himalayan salt. 1.5 dl almond oil, jojoba oil, or another oil you like. 1 tsp liquid castile soap. 20 drops of essential peppermint oil or ginger oil. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and add essential oils until the desired scent is achieved. Store in an airtight glass jar and use to scrub your feet or body when you shower or take a foot bath. DIY: Romantic Salt Scrub 2.5 dl Himalayan salt. 1.5 dl argan oil, apricot kernel oil, or camellia oil. Dried rosebuds or dried lavender flowers. 20 drops of essential geranium oil or patchouli oil. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and add essential oils until the desired scent is achieved. Store in an airtight glass jar and use to scrub your feet or body when you shower or take a foot bath. DIY: Sugar Scrub for Sensitive Skin 2.5 dl raw cane sugar. 1.5 dl almond oil, apricot kernel oil, or camellia oil. 1/2 dl honey. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Store in an airtight glass jar and use to scrub your feet or body when you shower or take a foot bath.
Read moreKhadi organic hair color naturally covers gray hair
Khadi’s Ayurvedic hair dyes are made in India in a traditional way with recipes from the past. They work according to Fair Trade and employ locals, and child labor is of course excluded. The hair dyes are BDIH certified (certified natural cosmetics), 100% herbal-based, vegan-friendly, and chemical-free. Besides herbal-based hair dyes, Khadi also develops high-quality products for hair and body whose unique properties are based on traditional formulas of handpicked herbs and highly concentrated plant extracts. Do you have trouble covering white/gray hair? The problem with herbal hair dyes is that they often do a poor job covering coarse white and gray strands. On my pure white and thick strands, dark brown shades don’t cover at all, and black is not even recommended for gray hair; it simply doesn’t work. I can dye the white hairs with pure red shades or mix 10-30% dark brown into a red shade. I have also tried applying a dark brown Logona or Radico on top, but it didn’t take. Khadi became the solution to the problem. Now we can all dye our grays. Let me take you through this fantastic journey! Consistency Khadi has clear instructions on the water temperature when mixing the dye powder. Note that different shades are mixed with different temperatures. Dark brown should be mixed with 50-degree warm water. They seem to know how it should be done. Khadi’s hair dyes are permanent and stain both floors and skin. They therefore recommend using a thick cream/oil around the hairline and ears, having newspapers on the floor, and wearing old clothes. But I could have skipped all the newspapers, as the dye neither crumbled nor splattered. Still, I guess I should protect the floor just in case I mess up when I least expect it. Khadi’s hair dye is very creamy and feels almost like a cream hair dye. Economy The dye I tested is Khadi Dark Brown and it is not nearly as economical as Radico’s hair dye. One package is enough for shoulder-length hair. If you have thick and a lot of hair, it’s safest to get an extra package, so buy two. How to get good results on white/gray hair with herbal hair dye Khadi recommends a 2-step dyeing process for gray to medium blonde/medium brown hair if you want the shades dark brown, black, or indigo as the final result. For an intense and covering result, you should first dye bright red with either Henna, Amla, or Jatropha, then dye with a darker color on top. 1. Dye the roots A little less than half a package of hair dye is needed for the roots. I had Sante Naturröd at home, so I dyed the roots with it and let it sit for 1.5 hours. 2. Dye the entire hair Since it got so late, I continued coloring the next evening with Khadi Dark Brown. I let it work for 2 hours and used only the included cap (no towel on top). One thing I noticed was that it was very soothing for the scalp. The other hair colors are also lovely and calming, but Khadi’s felt extra nice. Maybe it’s the neem herb that does it. Khadi’s creamy hair color is easy to rinse out, which is appreciated when coloring late in the evening. Khadi recommends not washing with shampoo immediately after coloring, but at the earliest after 24 hours. I rinsed only with water, no conditioner. I had mixed a little too little color, so it was sparse in some places, but look at the result! 3. Check out the result It worked! Next time I have to color with the red shades Khadi recommends in the 2-step coloring and black. As a bonus, I got strength and shine in my hair! 1. Hair before coloring (dry hair) My hair before coloring. White roots and some old reddish-brown color left. 2. Result after the first step After 1.5 hours with Sante natural red. In bathroom light it looks almost brown, but in reality and especially in daylight the hair is very red. 3. Result after the second step (wet hair) After 2 hours with Khadi Dark Brown, wet hair. 4. Final result (dry hair) After 2 hours with Khadi Dark Brown, dry hair. The fine “baby hairs” at the front turned really dark brown and the coarse white strands turned brown. The red is not visible. Rating of Khadi’s herbal hair color Pros: + fully covers white hair in a 2-step coloring with red as the base.+ is creamy and doesn’t crumble.+ extra soothing on the scalp.+ easiest to rinse out compared to the other herbal hair colors.+ gives extra fresh and shiny hair. Cons: – of all the herbal hair colors in the shop, Khadi feels the least concentrated. Tip: Some see it as a downside that Khadi doesn’t have many shades to choose from, but I don’t see it as a problem since you can easily mix a unique color with the base shades available. So mix away! Is there a big difference between Khadi’s and Radico’s herbal hair colors? Khadi’s hair colors consist of herbs, just like Radico’s hair colors. They are similar in ingredients but not identical. Here you can see an example of the difference in ingredients (INCI) between two dark brown shades: Khadi Dark Brown: Indigofera Tinctoria (Indigo) – Lawsonia Inermis (Henna) – Emblica Officinalis (Amla) – Eclipta Alba (Bhringraj) – Azadirachta Indica (Neem). Radico Dark Brown: Lawsonia Inermis (Henna), Emblica Officinalis (Amla), Eclipta Alba (Bhringraj), Indigofera Tinctoria (Indigo), Trigonella Foenum-graecum (Methi), Hibiscus Rosa Sinensis (Hibiscus), Coffea Arabica (Coffee), Rubia Cordifolia (Manjistha).
Read moreFushi's Camellia Oil - Benefits for Skin and Hair
Japanese Camellia Oil is called Camellia oil, Camellia Kissi oil, Japanese Camellia Kissi oil, or Camellia Japonica Seed oil in English. Japanese Camellia Oil is of the Camellia Japonica variety. In Japanese, the oil is called Tsubaki-abura (椿油). Tsubaki is mainly used cosmetically. The Glimja oil is of the Camellia Japonica species – Tsubaki from Japan. Tea seed oil, which many sell as camellia oil, is actually of the Camellia oleifera seed oil variety, a cooking oil used in Asia. Origin of the Oil Camellia oil comes from seeds of camellias, a type of evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and beautiful rose-like flowers in various colors. The beauty of camellia flowers is well known, as they come in different colors including white, pink, and red. The flower itself is a symbol of feminine beauty. Fushi’s Camellia Oil is a cold-pressed, non-standardized, unrefined, organic, and natural oil. Fushi’s oils are free from gluten, soy, GMOs, hexane, pesticides and herbicides, artificial colors, flavors, fragrances, additives, and preservatives. 9 Benefits of Camellia Oil Camellia oil has been used by women in parts of Asia for centuries to nourish both skin and hair. It is said to have been the Geisha’s secret for beautiful skin and shiny hair. Camellia oil is naturally rich in antioxidants, fatty acids (about 80-85% omega 9), and plant collagen. With its light texture, this versatile oil is a favorite for many. Here are nine benefits of camellia oil: It is a light universal oil. Absorbs easily into the skin without greasiness. Has no scent, making it suitable for those sensitive to fragrances. Has a silky, non-greasy, creamy, easily absorbed texture and is non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types, including problematic and sensitive skin. Reduces impurities and minimizes pores. Evens out and brightens skin tone, dark circles, and scars. Soothes eczema-prone skin. Suitable for stretch marks. Helps with Dark Circles, Large Pores & Uneven Skin Tone Because Camellia oil is a light and non-greasy oil, it is excellent for the eye area. Besides providing good moisture to the thin skin, the oil also brightens dark circles. Those with darker or lighter patches (pigmentation) on the face often appreciate this oil and find it evens out skin tone. Camellia oil also minimizes pores. Without clogged pores and uneven skin tone, the skin looks smoother and fresher. Combats Dry Skin Camellia oil provides enough moisture for dry skin in summer, but not always in autumn and winter. Then you can use the oil as a serum and complement it with richer oils or creams on top. You can use several products on the skin. The key is to start with the least oily and work your way up to the richest. If you are very dry, you can apply serum, camellia oil, intensive face cream, and finish with a richer oil. This way, moisture reaches both the deeper and upper skin layers. For those looking for an oil perfect as a serum, camellia oil is the obvious choice. Treatment for Eczema Camellia oil does not heal eczema, but with regular use, the skin stays hydrated even in the deeper layers, resulting in fewer eczema flare-ups. Of all vegetable oils, many with eczema find camellia oil to be the best. It cares properly for and soothes sensitive, inflamed, irritated, and itchy skin. Prevent Stretch Marks For stretch marks, the oil can be applied to the area twice a day. It is also perfect for expectant mothers as the oil keeps the skin supple throughout pregnancy. More Beautiful Hair Camellia oil is also wonderful for hair. The oil makes hair more manageable and soothes a dry scalp. You can apply the oil to hair ends on dry hair without it looking oily or do a hair mask for 20-30 minutes before washing your hair as usual. How do you use your camellia oil? Tell us.
Read moreNutrition for healthy skin - Inner balance for outer beauty
The skin is the body’s largest organ and one of our most important elimination organs along with the liver, kidneys, and colon. We get many questions about skin problems. To tackle skin issues, it is important first to identify the underlying cause. It is not enough to just relieve symptoms. Often the underlying problems show up as symptoms like acne, eczema, rosacea, redness, inflammation, dry skin, brittle nails, or premature aging. These symptoms often point to an imbalance that you can adjust. Beauty comes from within In nutritional medicine, the skin is often related to the liver as well as digestive health. When you have an imbalance in these internal organs, it can show through the skin. The key to healthy and radiant skin literally goes through the stomach. Most of us need to review our dietary choices and take the right nutritional supplements to keep our skin happy and radiant. We may also need to do regular detox cures to support the body’s cleansing systems and reduce the burden on the skin. Besides dietary choices, it is also important to:– Avoid harmful substances from conventional skincare products (by using natural and organic skincare).– Balance stress in your life.– Exercise and sweat regularly to help your skin feel its best. What can you eat for healthy skin? Food for radiant skin It is just as important what you choose to avoid as what you choose to put into your body. Foods that disturb your liver and intestines are ultimately also harmful to the skin. Therefore, avoid or minimize**:** Avoid: Sugar Wheat flour Cheap fats like peanut oil, soybean oil, margarine, etc. Very fatty, fried, or sautéed foods in large amounts Artificial flavorings and preservatives. Eat more of: Vegetables rich in beta-carotene, chlorophyll, and antioxidants support the skin by helping the body fight free radicals and protect against external effects from sun, weather, and wind. Especially good are broccoli, tomatoes, green leaves, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, sprouts, pumpkin, zucchini, celery, sweet potato, cauliflower, cabbage, beets. You can also choose green powder blends if you prefer to get as much green as possible in a simple and concentrated form. For example: E3live, Green Magic, Wheatgrass juice, and Spirulina. Fruits and berries rich in life-giving water, antioxidants, and vitamins help transport nutrients to the skin while clearing away waste products. Examples: avocado, papaya, goji berries, schisandra, apples, banana, lemon, lime, kiwi, pomegranate, pineapple, watermelon, pear. Healthy oils, the skin needs a certain amount of high-quality fatty acids to feel its best. These are good both to eat and to apply to the skin: Olive oil Algae omega-3 Hemp oil Hemp seeds Evening primrose oil Borage oil Coconut oil Black cumin oil Herbs and spices are like concentrated injections of antioxidants and phytonutrients that help the body protect the skin’s cells from external influences. Here are some tips: Ginger Chaga Moringa Neem Aloe vera Dandelion Nettle Field horsetail Turmeric Cinnamon Red clover Supplements that support skin health Some nutrients are especially important for skin health. In many cases, these overlap with what supports the liver, digestion, as well as hair and nails, since they all affect and interact with each other. The big stars for skin health are: Silica, Collagen, Zinc, Vitamin C, Biotin, Hyaluronic Acid, MSM (sulfur), Omega 3, and friendly gut bacteria. Vitamins E, D, and B-complex also have important functions for the skin. The best supplements specifically for the skin are combination supplements that combine nutrients and herbs in the right proportions to provide optimal support from within the body. Here are some favorites: Contains key ingredients for healthy skin such as silica from bamboo extract, vegetarian hyaluronic acid, soluble keratin, and several important vitamins and minerals. Sunwarrior Beauty Greens: with coconut water, biotin, and hyaluronic acid that help hydrate and strengthen the skin from within, while stimulating the body's collagen production, coconut water providing electrolytes, silica from bamboo, vitamin C, wheatgrass juice, kale, moringa, spirulina, and a vegetable blend as well as lactic acid bacteria for digestion. Terranova Beauty Complex contains a unique blend to support skin and hair health as well as nails. Contains MSM, horsetail, nettles, cocoa powder, pumpkin seeds, Gotu Kola, burdock, vitamin C, and zinc. Other supplements for the skin In addition to combination supplements for skin health, the following individual supplements can play an important role for skin health. Here are the most important: Lactic acid bacteria: health starts in the stomach and friendly gut bacteria support the entire body: Friendly lactic acid bacteria are one of the most important products you can choose. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6 in the body plays a crucial role for the skin and the whole body. B-complex supplements are effective for the skin and hair. Especially vitamin B3 plays an important role in circulation to the body's outermost parts. Zinc: required for collagen production, a connective tissue necessary for skin repair and regeneration. Zinc is a powerful mineral in preventing wrinkles, sun damage, inflammation (acne, rosacea), and pigmentation disorders (melasma). Eczema and acne can be caused by a deficiency of zinc and B vitamins in the body. Sulfur gives the skin radiance and glow. Where can you find sulfur? In lovely greens like arugula, kale, watercress, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, and in maca. Or you can take MSM supplements. Silica is another essential mineral that keeps the skin happy. Silica-rich foods include green beans, nettles, oats, millet, artichoke, asparagus, beets, romaine lettuce, baby spinach, and herbs like horsetail. You can also drink organic green tea or Spring Dragon tea, 1-2 cups a day. Green tea protects the skin from sun damage and studies have shown it reduces redness – but it is important to choose a high-quality organic green tea without sugar.
Read moreHIRO Cosmetics: Organic makeup for a natural look
Here comes a review of HIRO Cosmetics. What makes these makeup products unique is that they are incredibly light on the skin, multifunctional, super easy to achieve a beautiful result with, and they stay looking great all day. Mineral Foundation SPF 25-30 from HIRO Cosmetics I think the name mineral foundation doesn’t do this product justice and that this phenomenal product has received far too little attention. Unlike other mineral foundations, this one is extra finely milled, fluffy, and melts directly into the skin without emphasizing dryness or wrinkles. After two layers, you still look natural but the result is strikingly beautiful. Choose a fluffier kabuki brush for medium coverage and a denser foundation brush for high coverage. TIP: Because it is so finely milled, you can get an equally good liquid foundation by mixing it with serum, cream, or oil. When I was in Berlin and met one of the founders, I was explained that there is a huge difference in how the minerals are ground down. You can control particle size, but also particle shape like round, oval, or angular. Depending on the "settings" in the grinding process, the final result on the skin can vary. So exciting! They have also determined the exact SPF for each shade, and I think 25-30 is good year-round protection. Thumbs up for having done all the necessary tests to be able to print SPF on the jars. And thumbs up for the packaging being easy to use and secure so no powder spills out. HIRO Cosmetics is my absolute favorite loose foundation.You can buy HIRO Cosmetics Mineral Foundation here > No Doubt Natural Foundation from HIRO Cosmetics HIRO Cosmetics' natural liquid foundation is also easy to use as it melts into the skin immediately and gives a natural look. It doesn’t cake. I find it super comfortable on the skin and it gives a smooth, matte, beautiful finish. It provides medium coverage that is buildable, so if you need more, just apply more. This foundation is a 5-star product (out of 5 stars) and I think it suits both experienced makeup users and beginners. You can buy HIRO Cosmetics liquid foundation here > Space Balm concealer from HIRO Cosmetics Space Balm is also from another planet and has a high coverage level. HIRO Cosmetics may cover slightly less than some other brands, but it stays put all day, and even after several layers it feels light and not greasy on the skin, which means it doesn’t emphasize lines. A big plus is the mirror, a must for touch-ups or if you're always on the go. If I could only own one concealer, I would without a doubt choose HIRO Cosmetics' Space Balm. You can buy HIRO Cosmetics Space Balm here > Lipstick from HIRO Cosmetics I am a lipstickholic and absolutely love HIRO Cosmetics' lipsticks and lip paints. There are lipsticks that apply a fairly thick layer on the lips. Full coverage and beautiful, but they wear off quickly and end up everywhere. Then there are those that feel drier, last better but require more work when applying and are not for those with dry lips. HIRO’s lipsticks instead give a thin, pigmented layer on the lips that you don’t feel. The lips also stay soft for a long time. Sometimes I forget I’m wearing lipstick but am pleasantly surprised when I see it still looks nice at the end of the day. If I don’t touch up during the day, it fades evenly and nicely. There’s nothing worse than an outer ring left on the lips by evening. Their Lip Paint gives a lot of color and suits everyone who loves very colorful lips. Lip Paints are creamy in a liquid, thick form. They are very pigmented and have matte, opaque, wonderful colors. Buy HIRO lipsticks here > Mascara from HIRO Mascara is so individual. I always have trouble with flakes and smudges because I have hooded eyes. HIRO’s mascara Beautiful Brown & Deep Black gets 4 out of 5 points from me. By the end of the day, a little has settled under the eye. Easy to wipe off, but still. We know we have customers who are die-hard fans of the mascara; the brush has a classic perfect design and the formula lasts all day. Their latest mascara released in 2022 is called Bada Boom and is another hit from HIRO. A gentle mascara that suits sensitive eyes but still gives a sweep of fine volume without clumps… wonderful! This is by far the best natural mascara we’ve tested that gives volume and length at the same time. Buy HIRO mascaras here > Multistick from HIRO These multisticks became popular from day one! They are matte and the formula is cream-to-powder, which gives a light splash of color on the lips and eyelids. On the cheeks, HIRO’s multisticks are in a class of their own. There are cream blushes that are so pigmented they can easily look patchy and require practice to get an even and nice finish. If you succeed, cream blushes look more like skin, give a fresher and more believable result. Powder blushes look nice but can appear powdery and therefore more unnatural. HIRO’s multisticks are a middle ground, powdery but not quite. It’s easy and quick to create a subtle or more pigmented look. It looks like you’re good at makeup even if you don’t know what you’re doing. So easy to apply and no brushes needed, just fingers. The best part is that it stays extremely well on the skin. Blushes and bronzers tend to disappear on me during the day (I like small amounts, a subtle look), but not these. I easily eat off lipstick. But the multistick from HIRO stays all day. I've tried wearing multisticks and other lipsticks on top, and what remains in the evening is the multistick. Love, love, love HIRO's multisticks. Buy HIRO Multisticks here > All of you who love HIRO, go in and write product reviews so more people can hear how you experience them. All of you who haven't tried HIRO yet – do it!
Read moreSafe face paint for children for Halloween
Halloween is a fun tradition where children get to dress up, play tricks, and eat candy. But they should be able to do it without risking their health! We take a closer look at what scary Halloween makeup for children contains, suggest better alternatives, and give you makeup inspiration. Harmful substances in children’s makeup As early as 2015, the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation warned about toxins in makeup aimed at children after examining the Halloween makeup selection. They found frightening substances such as: are suspected hormone disruptors. are allergenic. are believed to contribute to diseases like diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Read the ingredient list It’s worth taking the time to read the small ingredient list on conventional face paint. When you read it, watch out for toxic substances such as: PFAS (perfluorinated substances). Watch out for names containing “fluoro,” polytef, polytefum, and PTFE. Read more about PFAS in makeup. Cyclic silicones (start with the word “cyclo” and end with “siloxane”). Parabens such as butyl-, isobutyl-, isopropyl-, and propylparaben. Phthalates are incredibly hard to identify because they come in many forms and are abbreviated as BBP, DEHP, MEP, MiBP, MEHP, etc. Always be critical when abbreviations are used. In cosmetics, phthalates can be found in nail polish and perfumes. It’s worth knowing that there are also toxic substances that don’t appear on the ingredient list but are hidden in other ingredients. For example: Synthetic color pigments often contain harmful heavy metals. Watch out for lake colors (e.g., labeled as Red 6 lake) and FD&C colors (e.g., labeled as FD&C Yellow 5). Phthalates are often part of synthetic perfumes. They fix the scents and make them last longer. A perfume can contain a large amount of phthalates without it needing to be listed on the ingredient label. They can hide behind vague terms like fragrance and perfume. It should be easy to choose right! Living a toxin-minimized and chemical-wise life should be simple, we at Glimja believe. We know it’s hard to decipher ingredient lists! That’s why we do the work for you and offer a handpicked selection that has both clean ingredients and high quality. Always buy pure, natural, and organic makeup products for children. They are much more sensitive than adults. The makeup products in our range contain no: PFAS substances (and are therefore not waterproof). Forms of silicones or petroleum-based chemicals. Instead, they consist of vegetable oils that nourish the skin. Parabens. Instead, they contain milder preservatives. Synthetic fragrances. Made from fragrant plant oils that are completely free from phthalates. Synthetic color pigments. Natural face paint from Namaki Namaki makes fun face painting products with ingredients that are safe for children's skin and health. Since the beginning, they have used carefully selected natural and organic ingredients when formulating their products. Namaki is COSMOS ORGANIC certified by Cosmécert according to the COSMOS standard. All Namaki products are certified organic and dermatologically tested. They are made with natural ingredients and formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. The packaging is recyclable and made with the environment in mind. Namakis fine products are perfect to use for Halloween, parties, or other festive occasions! The face pencils are practical and precise, allowing you to paint exactly the design you or the child wants. The natural and water-based face paint for face painting can also be applied to the skin. The face paint’s content is 99% natural and 20% organic. It includes 6 colors, a makeup brush, and 5 makeup instructions. 3 face paintings for Halloween 1. Halloween-themed face painting Painting kids as vampires and zombies is a classic that’s always in, but why not try something new, like an evil pumpkin, intergalactic creature, mermaid, favorite animal, robot, or avatar. Google in English and you’ll easily find pictures of the face painting you want to do: For example: "avatar halloween makeup children" or "zombie halloween makeup children." For kids who want something different, we have some fun suggestions that are easy to do even if you’re not an artist. If you want different shades, mix in white to get lighter colors and black to get darker colors. 2. Face painting with patterns Patterns on the face look both nice and cool. Base the face with a color of your choice and then create a pattern with another color. Here we have made a reptile imitation. Do as follows: Apply face cream or face oil to the face. Base with a mix of yellow and blue. Then use, for example, a net as a stencil (a tip is to use the net bag that avocados or onions come in). Paint over the stencil with another face paint or powder with a powder makeup like black eyeshadow. 3. Themed face painting Choose a theme that the kids like. Hello Kitty and Disney characters are examples of such. Here we went with the popular Pokémon theme. They are usually colorful and easy to paint. Here we have created Pikachu face painting. Do as follows: Start by applying a moisturizing face cream or oil to the face. Then draw the black lines. If you don't have black face paint, you can use a creamy and pigmented eyeliner like Purobio Long Lasting Pencil. Base with a yellow color. Fill up to the black lines. Paint the cheeks and upper mouth with red paint. Paint the lower part of the mouth with a mix of red and white.
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