Health Blog
Health Blog
5 Simple Spirulina Recipes for Nutritious Everyday Meals
Most people only use spirulina as a powder to mix into smoothies for an extra nutritional boost. Spirulina contains an astonishing amount of nutrients, including antioxidants like chlorophyll and beta-carotene, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. It is also very rich in protein and contains all essential amino acids. A full 65-71% of spirulina's weight consists of protein, making it more than twice as protein-rich as meat, measured by protein per gram. In other words, it is superfood in its true sense, and something we like to incorporate into food in more ways than just smoothies. Here are 5 of our favorite recipes that are excellent for adding spirulina to your daily diet in a more varied way. 1. Spirulina Dressing 1/2 large avocado or one small whole1 tsp spirulina1 small zucchini (de-salted and chopped)0.5 dl hemp seeds1 tbsp white miso2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice1 dl water (or more if you want it thinner) Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until desired consistency. 2. Spirulina Pesto 2 dl walnuts (soaked overnight)3 dl baby spinach1 dl fresh basil1 tsp spirulina or AFA algae2 tbsp olive oil1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice1 garlic clove1 dl water3 tbsp nutritional yeast1/2 tsp natural salt First blend the nuts in a high-speed blender.Then blend in the rest until desired consistency and season with salt. 3. Spirulina Kale 1 kale, washed and cut into suitable pieces0.5 dl nutritional yeast1 tbsp spirulina1 tbsp paprika powder Mix all powders together in a bowl with a spoon.Rub the kale with the powder.Place in a dehydrator or regular oven until crispy. 4. Spirulina Water 500 ml sparkling water1 fresh lemon6 drops stevia or another sweetener like xylitol1-2 tsp spirulina depending on mood Squeeze the lemon juice into a large glass pitcher.Add sweetener and spirulina.Pour in sparkling water and mix. 5. Spirulina Nicecream 2 frozen bananas (peeled)1-2 large handfuls baby spinach1 tsp spirulina Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend.Garnish with fruit.
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The conditioner method for dry and damaged hair
Have you tried all kinds of shampoos that are supposed to be good for dry and damaged hair but still haven't found the right one? For you, the very best shampoo might be no shampoo at all if your hair is very damaged and worn. Then the conditioner method might be something to try. With the conditioner method, you wash your hair clean using only conditioner. 5 benefits of the conditioner method With the conditioner method, you can wash your hair every day without damaging the hair quality. The conditioner method: Makes dry hair shiny. Makes colored hair last longer. Repairs damaged hair. Enhances curls. Makes the scalp produce less oil. In general, both hair and scalp become healthy with the conditioner method, and it is an easy way to save damaged hair. Step 1: Deep clean with a "final shampoo" before you start A so-called "final shampoo" is needed to wash away deposits of silicones, mineral oils, and other hard-to-dissolve chemicals from hair and scalp before you begin the conditioner method. If you already use natural and organic hair products, no final shampoo is needed. One of these shampoos works as a "final shampoo": – Shampoo no. 4 from Bruns – Shampoo Repair from Eco Cosmetics Your final shampoo should have pure, natural ingredients and be strong enough to clean. Usually, a shampoo with sulfates is recommended, but it works just as well if the shampoo contains milder soap agents like these. How to do it: Massage the shampoo into your entire hair. Rinse out. Repeat the washing step until the hair feels "squeaky clean." The hair may feel tangled and rough (no worries!). Detangle the hair with a natural conditioner (see conditioners below). Wash your hair this way 1-3 times or until the hair feels really clean, shinier, and more manageable. The reason your shampoo and conditioner should have pure ingredients is so they don’t add more of the substances you want to wash away. They give your hair a good and fresh new start so the transition to the conditioner method becomes easy. Tip! It’s good to occasionally reset your hair again with your final shampoo. This is because air pollution and minerals in our water can stick firmly to the hair strands and become difficult to wash away with conditioner alone. Step 2: Start washing your hair with conditioner Since fat dissolves fat, it works perfectly to clean hair using only conditioner. But this places higher demands on your conditioner. Further down you will find our 3 favorite conditioners for the conditioner method. Keep in mind that conditioner does not lather, which requires a bit more time and effort to distribute in the hair and to dissolve dirt. With the conditioner method, you may initially need to wash your hair a bit more often. In that case, continue washing with conditioner until your scalp gets used to it. Be patient and hang in there! How to do it: Wet your hair with water. Distribute your conditioner on the scalp and massage carefully for a while so that dead skin cells and oil dissolve. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly with water. Be sure to rinse out all the conditioner. Otherwise, the hair may feel flat and oily after washing. If needed, finish with a more nourishing conditioner like a hair mask on the ends and lengths that protects the hair, makes it easier to detangle, and repairs dry and damaged hair. Rinse with water. Conditioners for the conditioner method The conditioners you use for the conditioner method must be free from sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, hard-to-dissolve chemicals, and drying alcohols. They should not weigh the hair down and should be lighter in consistency while still being able to clean hair and scalp without leaving a greasy feeling. These organic conditioners are suitable for the conditioner method: – Eco Cosmetics Conditioner with Jojoba & Green Tea – Dr Sannas Volume Conditioner – Bruns Conditioner No. 04 Magic Citrus Remember that a healthy scalp is the straightest path to healthy hair! Read more about how you can take care of your scalp to detoxify hair and scalp as well as to prevent itchy scalp.
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The health benefits and uses of nettle
Our common stinging nettle – Urtica dioica – which grows and thrives all over the country, is a unique gift from nature. Nettle leaves are rich in chlorophyll and minerals such as iron, chromium, zinc, copper, magnesium, silica, cobalt, and calcium. Nettles are also rich in vitamins A, E, D, C, and K. Nettle has been used in natural medicine for centuries and dates back to ancient Greece. Among other things, it has been taken to: balance blood sugar. support the immune system. support the nervous system. nourish the hormonal system. support joint health. support digestion. support the kidneys. support the urinary tract. help with skin problems. Energy Nettle nourishes and energizes the entire system. It is an herb very suitable for exhaustion and long-term fatigue. Nettle provides steady energy to the whole body and supports all glands and organs. It is alkaline and helps the body with excess acidity. Nettle for women Nettles are a wonderful plant-based friend for all women through several life stages from adolescence to menopause. As a “uterine tonic” for menstrual issues like PMS, heavy bleeding, anemia, fatigue, and night sweats. Nettle is especially rich in iron and chlorophyll, making it an excellent agent to stimulate blood formation. Nettle for skin problems Nettle is also an excellent choice to try for skin problems, such as eczema. The herb supports skin healing and also provides radiance and nourishment to both skin and hair. Infusion, extract, or powder? An effective way to get a lot of nettle is through an infusion, a powder, or an extract. Nettle infusion An infusion extracts lots of minerals, especially magnesium from the nettle. How to prepare: 15 grams of dried herb per 1/2 liter of freshly boiled water. Let steep covered in a pot for at least 4 hours (heat off). Store in the refrigerator, can be consumed 2-4 cups per day, or used as a base in a smoothie. Remember to also drink water as nettle makes you thirsty. Nettle extract An extract is a highly concentrated bioavailable herb. It bypasses the digestive process and quickly enters the bloodstream. This makes it a very effective way for the body to absorb medicinal principles from herbs. Nettle powder A powder is simply the whole herb ground into powder. It’s nice to mix with a little water or sprinkle on porridge. Read here how you can make a nourishing face mask with nettle. When should you be cautious with nettle? Yes, during pregnancy, diabetes, if you take blood thinners, and with kidney problems. Always consult a specialist if you’re unsure. Fresh nettles In Sweden, we can harvest nettles from April to October. Flavor-wise, the tender shoots in spring are preferable – but as a source of nutrients, it’s fine to harvest as long as they’re growing – except when they’re flowering; then they should be avoided. Remember to wear gloves when picking them. Nettles can be eaten fresh, in soups, salads, or smoothies. Feel free to chop the leaves very finely. They can also be frozen, dried, or made into extracts to be consumed throughout the year. If you haven’t harvested your own nettles, you can always buy dried nettle or nettle powder. Here is a nettle pesto recipe you can save for spring: Ingredients:100 grams stinging nettles1/2 dl fresh mint leaves1 garlic clove – chopped1 dl pine nuts, toasted2 tablespoons lemon juice0.5 dl olive oil1/2 dl finely grated organic Parmesan– or if you’re vegan, 2 tbsp nutritional yeastsalt & black pepper How do you do it? Put the freshly picked nettles in a large bowl of cold water. Use gloves – place the nettles in the water and let them sit for 5 minutes. Pull the leaves off the stems and discard the stems. Put the nettle leaves in boiling water and cook for 1 minute. Drain and spread the nettles on a baking sheet. Let cool completely. Squeeze out as much water as possible and chop coarsely. Put nettles in a powerful blender or food processor with mint, garlic, pine nuts, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Process until the mixture forms a paste. Pour the olive oil into the machine while it’s running.Put in a bowl and mix in the cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. How do you like your nettle?
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Cold-pressed oils for skin and hair - which one suits you?
Argan oil – for dry, aging, oily, and normal skin, intensely moisturizing. Anti-age oil. Suitable for; skin, face, hair. A very popular hair oil. Jojoba oil – for dry, aging, oily, normal, or combination skin, balances sebum production. Universal oil. Suitable for; cleansing, skin, face, massage, bath oil, hair. Also for acne-prone skin. Apricot kernel oil – for all skin types, especially good for normal, dry, and aging skin, universal oil. Suitable for; skin, face, hair, massage, bath oil, baby massage. Also for baby care. Sweet almond oil – for all skin types, fantastic facial oil, mild, nourishing, and light. Universal oil. Suitable for; cleansing, remover, skin, face, hair, nails, massage, and eating. Also for baby care. Grapeseed oil – for dry, normal, oily, or combination skin, soothing for the skin and mildly astringent. Suitable for; cleansing, face. Also for acne-prone skin. Green avocado oil – for dry, aging, and sun-damaged skin, increases elasticity and moisturizes. Universal oil. Suitable for; cleansing, remover, skin, evening face oil, hair, bath oil, and eating. Camellia oil – all skin types, fantastic facial oil, absorbs quickly and counteracts fine lines. Universal oil with a neutral scent. Suitable for; skin, face, hair, nails. Does not make hair greasy while moisturizing. Baobab oil – true anti-age oil that improves skin elasticity. Perfect for preventing stretch marks. Suitable for; cleansing, skin, face, hair, and eating. Sesame oil – good for any skin type. Universal oil. Suitable for; cleansing, skin, face, hair, massage, and eating. Rosehip oil – dry, aging, and normal skin, highly regenerating, anti-aging properties. Suitable for; skin, face, as serum, hair. Also to prevent pigmentation spots and scars. Raspberry seed oil – all skin types, fantastic facial oil, reparative, regenerating, and soothing. Suitable for; skin, as serum, face, hair. Macadamia oil – for dry to very dry, damaged, aging skin, renews the skin, restores moisture, and improves skin quality. Suitable for; skin, face, hair, and eating. Marula oil – for mature skin, dry skin, protects the skin against aging, counteracts fine lines and wrinkles. Suitable for; skin, face, hair, nails, and eating. Borage oil – most skin types, but especially oily and acne-prone skin, very rich in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid). Suitable for; evening face oil and eating to obtain GLA fatty acid. Evening primrose oil – normal skin, mature skin, nourishes the skin, rich in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid). Good for eczema, skin problems, and scalp issues. Suitable for; diluted on skin, evening face oil, and eating. Tamanu oil – both dry and combination skin, anti-age and regenerating. Suitable for; skin, face, hair. Also for acne-prone skin. Can be used for spot treatment of scars. Pomegranate oil – normal, dry skin, also sensitive skin, naturally anti-inflammatory, anti-age oil, soothing and moisturizing. Suitable for; skin, evening face oil, as serum, and eating. Moringa oil – mature, dry skin and oilier skin with acne, very antioxidant-rich that protects while cleansing the skin. Suitable for; skin, face, eating. Also for acne-prone skin. Black cumin oil – all skin types, including sensitive skin, prevents skin aging, deeply nourishes. Good for itching and skin problems. Suitable for; skin, evening face oil, eating. Also for acne-prone skin. Should not be heated. Hemp oil – for all skin types, soothing, moisturizing, naturally anti-inflammatory, contains omega 3-6-9. Good for skin problems. Suitable for; skin, face, and eating. Should not be heated. Carrot oil – for all skin types, intensely protective, also sun-damaged skin, due to its high beta-carotene content. Suitable for; skin, face, as serum, hair. Calendula oil – problematic skin such as itchy skin, acne, eczema, diaper rash, stimulates the skin’s healing process and cell renewal. Suitable for; skin, face. Also for baby care. Castor oil – nourishes dry skin. Suitable for massage, relieves tired muscles, stimulates hair growth. Suitable for; cleansing, detox, to strengthen eyelashes, skin, hair. Coconut oil – nourishes dry and problematic skin. A universal oil. Very good cooking oil as it withstands heat. Good for itching and eczema. Suitable for; cleansing, skin, hair, after sun, and eating. Also for baby care. Olive oil – absolutely best as cold-pressed cooking oil. Suitable for; eating. Linseed oil – absolutely best as cold-pressed cooking oil. Suitable for; eating. Should not be heated. HERE YOU CAN FIND OILS from Fushifrom Loellefrom Crearomefrom Akamutifrom Odyliquefrom Ekendahls
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Dry skin: causes and effective treatments
Surface dry skin can affect anyone at any time of the year. Regardless of skin type – oily, dry, or combination – you can experience surface dryness. Read on to learn everything about surface dry skin. What is surface dry skin This is why you get surface dry skin How to get rid of dry surface skin Hydrate the skin from within* Drink water* Eat water-rich foods Treat dry surface skin from the outside* Have a moisturizing skincare routine* Daily cleansing* Exfoliation* Face mask for surface dry skin* Moisturizing facial toner* Moisturizing serum* Protect the skin from external influences* Prevent moisture from evaporating* Control humidity What is surface dry skin? When the skin lacks water, it becomes surface dry. The epidermis (the outermost part of the skin) is poor in moisture and dehydrated. But you need to distinguish between dry and surface dry skin, as they are two completely different things. Dry skin occurs when the skin lacks sebum. Read more about dry skin and how to recognize the difference between surface dry and dry skin. These are common signs of surface dry skin: premature signs of aging such as fine lines, sagging skin, and superficial wrinkles. dull and lifeless skin. uneven skin tone. itching. dark circles around the eyes, tired sunken eyes. dry lips. Other signs of severe dehydration can be: dry eyes and dry mouth. constant thirst. dark yellow urine with a strong smell. reduced urination and sweating. dizziness and fatigue. This is why you get surface dry skin Surface dry skin occurs when the body and skin lose more water than they receive. The moisture from the skin evaporates and the moisture balance needs to be restored. Common reasons why the skin becomes surface dry are: stomach flu, fever. heavy sweating. that you are drinking too little water. eating too dry food.. eating and drinking things that are diuretic. exposing the skin to strong sun, sunburn. heat, extra cold weather, large temperature fluctuations. drying, too heavy, and moisture-poor products. How to get rid of dry surface skin Treating dry surface skin is quite simple. You just need to restore the fluid balance in the body and skin. Hydrate the skin from within A first step to getting rid of dry surface skin is to hydrate the skin from within. Drink water It is crucial to drink enough water, especially after water loss from sun exposure, exercise, or sauna. Cut down on diuretic drinks like alcohol and coffee. Make sure to alternate alcoholic drinks with water and drink extra water after coffee. Eat water-rich foods Eat plenty of fresh foods like vegetables and fruits. Water-rich foods like watermelon, celery, and cucumber are excellent for hydrating the skin. Water-rich dishes like soups, stews, or cooked vegetables are preferable to fried, grilled, baked, or fried foods. Treat dry surface skin from the outside A common mistake is confusing dehydrated skin with dry skin and treating it with heavy creams and oils. What helps dry surface skin is hydrating, water-rich, and moisture-binding products. Maintain a moisturizing skincare routine Choose products containing ingredients like water, hydrolates, aloe vera, seaweed, algae, honey, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and AHA acids. Note that too much moisture-binding hyaluronic acid and glycerin, as well as exfoliating acids, can have the opposite effect – even drier skin. Ideally, use only one product containing these ingredients in your skincare routine. Daily cleansing Wash your face with a mild cleanser and lukewarm or cold water. Avoid overly long and hot showers and baths. Facial cleansers we recommend for dry surface skin: Odylique Creamy Coconut Cleanser 100% Pure Fermented Rice Water Cleanser Eco by Sonya Super Citrus Cleanser Exfoliation Take care of your skin barrier. It maintains moisture in the skin and protects against external stressors. Using (too much) retinol, acids, and potent active ingredients can weaken the skin barrier. Even harsh facial scrubs, various cleansing brushes, and cloths can negatively affect the skin barrier. Opt for mild AHA acids and grain exfoliants that gently scrub. Light exfoliating products that can be used daily: Evolve Liquid Radiance Glycolic Toner Exfoliation that can be used 1-2 times a week: Evolve Miracle Mask Face mask for surface-dry skin Give your skin a rich moisture boost with a moisturizing face mask. Moisture masks are perfect when you want to instantly quench your skin’s thirst. Moisturizing face masks suitable for surface-dry skin:100% Pure Green Tea Water Bomb MaskInlight Beauty Masks Moisturizing facial toner An important product for surface-dry skin is facial toner. A facial toner that contains most of what moisture-deficient skin needs is Eco by Sonya Superfruit Hydrator. If you also want a facial toner that can hydrate your face while at the computer or during the day, rose water is a good choice. Moisturizing serums When it comes to moisturizing serums, hyaluronic acid is always a key ingredient. Remember that serums containing hyaluronic acid should always be applied to damp skin so they have water to bind to. We recommend these serums for a serious moisture boost: i+m Hydro Perform Aqua Boost Aloe Vera Hyaluron, i+m Naturkosmetik Freistil Hyaluronic Serum, Evolve Hyaluronic Serum 200, and Evolve Blue Velvet Ceramide Serum. If you already have (a lot of) hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine, you can use the following serums that do not contain hyaluronic acid:Aloe Vera Gel Protect the skin from external influences Sun rays, air pollution, and similar factors directly or indirectly affect the skin’s moisture balance. Protect your skin with a moisturizing day cream that also shields against UV rays, blue light, free radicals, and oxidative stress. We recommend: i+m Hydro Perform Moisturizing Cream Aloe Vera Pomegranate Prevent moisture from evaporating Surface-dry skin is not lacking oil or sebum. However, oils and oil-rich creams are good to apply to the skin to prevent moisture from evaporating. If you feel the moisture you apply to your skin doesn’t stay or disappears quickly, a facial oil can be a good idea. Use it as is or mix a few drops with your face cream. We recommend light, moisturizing, and protective facial oils for surface-dry skin: Fushi Japanese Camellia Kissi Oil, Fushi Kalahari Melon Oil, and Loelle Raspberry Seed Oil. Control humidity During winter, humidity drops significantly, which can easily cause surface dryness. Make sure to add moisture to the air by: keep plants and flowers at home and in the bedroom that need frequent watering. hang laundry in the rooms you spend the most time in (bedroom, living room) instead of the laundry room. use humidifiers, especially while you sleep, to help your skin regain moisture. We wish you the best with your skin, and don’t hesitate to ask us if you have any questions!
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Dry skin - causes and natural solutions for healthy skin
Problems with dry skin are common and the skin's condition can also vary throughout the seasons. Whether you have dry skin all year round or just right now, we have the solution for how you can manage dry skin. Contents What is dry skin? This is why you get dry skin Age Weather and heat Water and soap Incorrect skincare products Unbalanced diet How to get rid of dry skin Turning down the heat Adjust your skincare routine* Cleansing for dry skin* Exfoliate dead skin cells* Face mask for dry skin* Moisturize every day* Facial water and toners for dry skin* Serum for dry skin* Facial cream for dry skin* Facial oil for dry skin Eat a balanced diet What is dry skin? You get dry skin when the skin lacks sebum. But you need to distinguish between dry and surface dry skin, as they are two completely different things. When the skin lacks water, it becomes surface dry. The epidermis (the outermost part of the skin) is poor in moisture and dehydrated. Read more about surface dry skin and how to distinguish between surface dry and dry skin. Common signs of dry skin are: dry and white skin flakes. flaky skin. rough skin. irritated and red skin. tendency to problematic skin such as eczema, itching, psoriasis, dermatitis. tight feeling especially after showering, bathing, or swimming. both small superficial and larger deeper skin cracks that can bleed. This is why you get dry skin Dry skin is a very common skin type that can affect anyone at some point. To avoid and understand dry skin, it is good to know the causes of the problem. Age Sebum production is controlled by androgens (sex hormones). Generally, children have low sebum production, which then increases during puberty and can start to decrease already from the age of 20. Sebum production in men does not decrease significantly until around 70-80 years of age. For women, sebum production decreases quite quickly from around 40 years old or when menopause begins. So it is absolutely right to apply extra moisturizer to the skin of children and adults, as the need changes throughout life. Weather and heat Although the sun and warm weather can dry out the skin, it is still driest in winter: when temperature and humidity drop sharply. when it is exposed to large temperature fluctuations. when indoor humidity becomes extra low, for example when the stove, radiator, or kitchen oven is on. when the skin is exposed to heat combined with water such as warm showers or baths. The moisture from the skin's outermost layer cannot stay and evaporates. The skin becomes surface dry. Skin that is already dry can start to flake, become red, and itch. Then the skin needs both oil and moisture. Water and soap Water itself is drying, and combined with overly strong soaps and cleansers, the skin quickly becomes dry on the surface, especially in winter. By continuing to wash away too much of the skin's natural sebum (the skin's natural oil), it eventually becomes dry deep down. If the skin does not get extra fats (via creams or oils), the outer drier skin layer will be lubricated with oils from deeper skin layers. You could say that the sebum is "taken and moved" to the skin's surface and dries in from within. Incorrect skincare products It is not only soaps and water that can dry out the skin. Coarse cloths, makeup wipes, and cleansing brushes (made of fiber strands) are examples of things that create a lot of friction against the skin and wipe away too much of the skin's protective fat. Detox masks and clay masks can be too absorbing and drying for winter skin. They are better suited for oily skin. Trying to remove dry flakes and flaky skin with scrubs or peeling is a good idea. However, it can easily become too much, weakening the skin barrier, making it thin, sensitive, and dry over time. It is crucial to adapt skincare according to the season. Fear of acne or oily skin from too rich creams and oils means the skin does not get the extra fat it needs in winter. This can ultimately lead to both acne and dry skin. The fear of using vegetable oils causes many to instead choose to moisturize with creams and oils based on petroleum oils. At first, it can feel incredibly softening, but in the long run, it acts like a barrier that prevents the skin from absorbing both moisture and fat, drying it out from within. Feel free to learn more about the difference between vegetable and petroleum-based oils. Another mistaken idea is that creams make the skin dependent. Refusing to moisturize the skin when it is dry and in greatest need of fat and hydration only makes the skin even drier. In the worst case, the skin can crack. Petroleum oils prevent the skin from absorbing fat and moisture. This makes the skin drier and therefore increases the need for moisturizing. This is experienced as the skin becoming "dependent on" products. In reality, it means the skin becomes even drier from the wrong types of products. Unbalanced diet Besides weather effects, an unbalanced diet is the most common underlying cause of dry skin. Generally, water-draining foods can make the skin dry: Alcohol and coffee. Salty food. Food without healthy fats. Junk food, sugar, and carbohydrates can dry out the skin indirectly by negatively affecting collagen production in the skin. This can lead to more wrinkles, dullness, and moisture-deficient skin. How to get rid of dry skin Fixing dry skin is relatively easy. You need to add more oils to the skin and minimize things that dry it out. Now we will go through step by step what helps against dry skin. Turning down the heat It’s nice to have proper warmth sometimes. However, try to save your skin by: turn down the radiator a bit and instead get cozy with warm socks and a sweater. avoid long, hot showers and baths. use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity. Adjust your skincare routine Skincare products that are natural, organic, and toxin-free are preferable if you want to get rid of dry skin. Here’s how to best adjust your skincare routine when you want to treat dry skin. Cleanser for dry skin When it comes to daily washing: Switch to a cleanser that doesn’t foam and doesn’t leave the skin feeling tight afterward. Tips for cleansers suitable for dry skin: i+m Clean Beauty Gentle Cream Cleanser, Odylique Silk Touch Cleanser, and Odylique Creamy Coconut Cleanser. Try OCM (oil cleansing method) where you wash your face with oil like almond oil. This reduces contact with water while deeply cleansing the skin. Be sure to wipe off all cleansing oil with a damp cloth. We also have ready-made oils to remove makeup and dirt. Keep in mind that deep-cleansing masks like clays, detox masks, and similar can be too drying on already dry skin. This is what you can do if you have blemished and dry skin: Use clay masks and purifying masks only in the T-zone. Mix a few drops of facial oil into your face mask to make it more nourishing. Face masks containing clays tend to dry quickly, which makes them “absorb” moisture and oils from the skin. Always keep it moist with a toner or facial water. It’s also fine to place a warm, damp cloth over your face while the mask works. Try a cleansing mask that is not drying, such as a face mask with rose quartz. Exfoliate dead skin cells Exfoliate or scrub regularly but not excessively to make it easier for the skin to absorb nutrients from your skincare products. Follow your product’s instructions and do not treat the skin more often than recommended. Good exfoliators for dry skin:Evolve Radiant Glow MaskEvolve Miracle Mask. Face mask for dry skin Face masks are great to use when you want quick results. These organic face masks provide the skin with plenty of nourishment: Evolve Radiant Glow Mask, Inlight Beauty Superfood Mask, and Inlight Beauty Chocolate Mask. Moisturize every day Facial toner for dry skin A moisturizing facial toner is a must for dehydrated skin. For dry skin, facial toner is not as important. There are still benefits to using facial toner on dry skin: if you have dry and dehydrated skin. if your skin dries out quickly between steps in your skincare routine. When the skin is dry, it has difficulty absorbing products and they mostly sit on the surface. Then a facial toner is perfect to use before applying serum, cream, and oil so the products absorb more effectively. Tips on facial toners suitable for dry skin: Evolve Daily Defence Moisture Mist with Prebiotic i+m Naturkosmetik Deep Water Hydrator Eco By Sonya Skin Compost Super Fruit Toner Inlight Floral Tonic Serum for dry skin Make sure to use serum as it penetrates the deeper skin layers. Choose a more nourishing serum that provides both moisture and fat. Tips on serums that help with dry skin: - i+m Age Protect Serum - i+m Naturkosmetik Freistil Hyaluronic Serum - i+m Naturkosmetik Lifting Boost Immortelle Hyaluron - Odylique Superfruit Concentrate Facial cream for dry skin Use a richer and nourishing facial cream that can moisturize dry skin and keep it soft for a long time. If it feels tight or looks dry after your facial cream has absorbed, you need a richer cream or to apply facial oil on top of your facial cream. If you have areas (usually the T-zone) that easily become shiny or are more prone to acne, you can apply a thin layer of facial cream or lighter facial lotion on those areas. This preserves moisture in the skin and prevents it from evaporating. Facial creams that really quench dry skin’s thirst are Inlight Beauty Deep Moisture Balm, Evolve Daily Renew Facial Cream, and Dr. Sanna’s Multi Cream. If you want to use a night cream in the evening, we recommend these for dry skin: 100% Pure Multi-vitamin + Antioxidants Ultra Riché PM Treatment, Inlight Beauty Nightbalm, and Evolve Nightly Renew Facial Cream. Facial oil for dry skin The great thing about facial oils for dry skin types is that they can be used: as a cleansing oil. instead of day and night creams. on top of day and night creams. to enrich other skincare products. It’s especially important that the skin is moist (and clean) when you apply facial oil. Then the oil sinks into the skin instead of just sitting on top. Tips on oils suitable for dry skin: Green Avocado Oil Inlight Beauty Face Oil Eco by Sonya Glory Oil Eat a balanced diet Nourishing your skin from the inside with the right diet is an effective way to get rid of dry skin. It’s important that the diet is varied and balanced. Sometimes it can be helpful to keep a diary of what you eat. That way you can easily see if your diet is one-sided. It’s also wise to note how much you eat of everything. Is it 10% vegetables on the plate or 90%? When the skin is dry, you need to get more healthy fats. Try: increase your intake of healthy fatty acids. An easy way is to drizzle extra virgin olive oil on your plate. eat more omega-3 rich foods like avocado, seeds, nuts, fish, and shellfish. take omega-3 supplements. The Medical Products Agency recommends that we should get 2.5-3 grams of omega-3 fat every day. eat less of things that cause dry skin.
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17 harmful substances to avoid in your skincare
The skin is a permeable barrier as it is our largest organ. That is why it is especially important to use products that strengthen – and do not harm – this delicate barrier. The skin is very absorbent, which you notice when you apply lotion. Ideally, we should not put anything on the skin that we cannot eat. The same applies to hair care and oral care products. It is simply better for you, nature, and animals to use natural products. In this article, we go through which chemicals we think you should watch out for in your bathroom cabinet. If you already have some of them in your products, it might be a good idea to do a purge and replace them with better alternatives. All hair and skincare products sold on Glimja.se are completely free from harmful preservatives, synthetic additives, animal residues, and other substances that are not good for us or the earth in the long run. Our products instead contain natural ingredients such as organic oils, fats and waxes, vitamins, plants and herbs, essential oils, etc. They have nurturing and healing properties that lay the foundation for long-term health and sustainability. 17 harmful substances in common body care For simplicity, we have created a list of the most harmful substances found in skin and hair care. So you can check if the products you use daily contain ingredients we should all avoid. It is worth knowing that some of these substances are also found in so-called "natural/organic body care." Therefore, there are many organic brands we have chosen not to sell. None of the items on the list below are sold in any of our products. 1. Anything that starts and ends with: TEA, DEA, and MEA DEA and MEA are hormone-disrupting chemicals known as Cocamide DEA or Lauramide DEA, and they produce carcinogenic nitrates and nitrosamines. They are used as solvents and cleaners. TEA can undergo nitrosation when it comes into contact with other chemicals, becoming a carcinogenic nitrosamine. TEA stands for triethanolamine and is used as a thickening agent. It is allergenic and irritating and can release small amounts of formaldehyde, which is carcinogenic. 2. Phenoxyglycerin and Phenoxyethanol Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic preservative, which together with ethylglycerin is used to produce Phenoxyglycerin. Both are synthetic chemicals. Phenoxyethanol is produced through a reaction between phenol and ethylene oxide, which is a toxic substance. Phenol is made from the petrochemical benzene, which is carcinogenic, but also from propene. Unfortunately, this has become a popular preservative in organic skincare as a substitute for parabens. 3. BHA & BHT BHA and BHT are known allergy-causing substances used to prevent products from going rancid. In animal tests with these substances, changes appeared in the immune system and blood profile, as well as in the thyroid and liver. Both substances accumulate in human tissue and reach the fetus. They can easily be replaced by the natural antioxidant Tocopherol (vitamin E). There is no reason to use them anymore, yet they still are. 4. Propylene glycol Propylene glycol is used as a bactericidal and fungicidal agent. It enhances the preservative effect when used together with parabens. The substance is suspected to disrupt the brain, liver, and kidneys. It also irritates the skin. Propylene glycol is an active substance also found in car engines as a coolant, in airplane cooling systems, rubber cleaning, polyurethane pillows, in paint, glue, enamel, varnishes, and many products as a solvent. 5. Surfactants: Sodium Laureth Sulfate / Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS/SLES) SLS is an ingredient that causes foaming in many products. SLS can react with other ingredients such as DEA, MEA, and TEA to form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. SLS alters the skin structure and allows other chemicals to penetrate deeper into your skin, thus letting more chemicals reach the bloodstream. It also removes the skin’s natural oils (used in industrial degreasing). There are nearly 16,000 studies in the PubMed scientific library all demonstrating the toxicity of this chemical. Other names for this chemical are sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sulfuric acid, sodium salt sulfuric acid, A12-00356, Akyposal SDS, Aquarex, sodium lauryl sulfate. 6. Synthetic preservatives The substances listed below are especially known to cause allergic reactions and skin irritation or release the carcinogenic substance formaldehyde: Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, diazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, quaternium 15. These are also dangerous preservatives: p-Phenylenediamine (toxic hair dye ingredient), Xylene, Toluene (solvent in, among other things, nail polish), Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile, Laurylpyridinium Chloride, Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Bromochlorophene, Chlorphenesin, Chlorothymol. More harmful chemicals to avoid: Benzophenone 1, Benzophenone 3, Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate in sunscreens (read more about this here) 7. Silicones: Cyclic siloxanes Cyclic siloxanes are silicones often found in makeup, skin, and hair care products. They are a group of silicones that act as emollients, making the skin or hair feel smooth. Common cyclic siloxanes are cyclotetrasiloxane (D4), cyclopentasiloxane (D5), and cyclohexasiloxane (D6). They are collectively called cyclomethicone. Watch out for any words containing "cone" or "siloxane". The European Chemicals Agency ECHA has now classified D4 and D5 as persistent; they can accumulate in human tissues and remain in nature. They are suspected to affect the liver and respiratory organs. D4 is now banned in cosmetic products. On January 31, 2020, D5 was also limited to 0.1% in cosmetic products; D6 remains allowed. 8. The surfactants: Trideceth, Laureth, Ceteareth, Glycereth, and Steareth Surfactants are listed on product labels, among other things, as ingredients ending in -eth. Anything starting with, for example, Trideceth- or Laureth- (with any number or word combination) is toxic both to aquatic organisms and the body. Cleansing agents are the foaming emulsifiers called surfactants found in regular and some organic shampoos, shower gels, and hand soaps. They are made to dissolve fat and dirt and keep it in a liquid form until washed away. All surfactants dissolve fat and can therefore also remove the skin’s natural fat substance, sebum, which leads to dry skin and dry scalp. The cleansing agents can also penetrate cell membranes and thereby irritate the skin. Some surfactants irritate more than others, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate remove the natural protective fat layer and make the skin dry and more vulnerable. Even Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, which are used in some organic hair care, are less good in our opinion, so we have chosen not to sell products containing them. In hair care at Glimja.se, instead "gentle" surfactants are used, like in 100% Pure’s shampoos. If you don’t want any surfactants at all in your hair, you should choose shampoo bars from Nea of Sweden, Grön Lycka, Malin i Ratan, Vermont soap, or Akamuti. 9. Parabens: Butyl-, Methyl-, Ethyl-, Propyl-, Benzyl- Propylparaben, Methylparaben, and all other parabens used as preservatives should be avoided. More than a dozen scientific studies have shown that parabens have an estrogen-like effect. The body can react to the false hormone or be prevented from reacting when a real hormone is produced. It has also been scientifically shown that parabens found in, for example, deodorants and creams are absorbed through the skin and accumulate in tissue. Overall, this does not say that parabens cause cancer. Nor does it say that parabens do not cause cancer. The scientific community believes that substances like consumer products should be studied more closely, and that takes time. Dr. Philippa D. Darby, a laboratory technician from England, used chromatography and mass spectrometry to see if 20 samples of breast cancer tissue contained parabens. Researchers say they found six different types of parabens in the tissue and all samples contained parabens. They say the average concentration of all types of parabens in the samples was roughly equal to the amount that caused breast cancer cells to grow in test tubes in previous studies. Darby says a wide range of substances can mimic estrogen, including certain pesticides, cosmetics, and cleaning agents, and it is possible that aluminum salts and other inorganic estrogen-related substances called “metalloestrogens” may further disrupt normal hormonal signaling in the breast. Darby also says that people's breasts today are exposed to a variety of environmental estrogenic insults. According to Darby, aluminum from deodorants is particularly concerning because it is applied to an area near the breast and remains on the skin. Deodorants are often used after shaving, which makes it easier for aluminum salts to enter the bloodstream. Studies have also shown that aluminum salts can penetrate human skin under the arms. However, Darby says much more research is needed before they can begin to determine the combined effects of all these chemicals. The Environmental and Health Information Center has classified Butylparaben, Propylparaben, and Isotylparaben as “high environmental hazard.” They can also be called: Parahydroxybenzoic acid, Benzylparahydroxybenzoic acid, Methylparahydroxybenzoic acid, Ethylparahydroxybenzoic acid, Propylparahydroxybenzoic acid, or Butylparahydroxybenzoic acid. 10. Aluminum Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate, Aluminum Chloride, Aluminum Chlorohydrex PG, and Aluminum Chlorohydrate are all harmful substances used in deodorants. They are synthetic aluminum salts that clog pores and can damage sweat glands and cause inflammatory reactions. Note that natural aluminum salts like alum or potassium alum are not harmful. The body's detoxification system expels toxins and waste through sweat glands, which means that aluminum chloride contributes to reduced detoxification and cleansing in the body's lymphatic system. The body absorbs substances especially easily in the armpit area, particularly after shaving, which can easily damage the skin. 11. Emulsifiers: Mineral oils, Polysorbate 20, and all numbers Emulsifiers are the oily or fatty parts of the emulsion. They prevent drying out and protect the skin by lubricating and softening it. Most common skincare products use synthetically produced emulsifiers such as mineral oils (paraffin wax and petroleum jelly). Mainly because they are cheap and stable. Mineral oil forms a layer over the skin and prevents it from breathing, blocks the excretion of waste products, and can thus irritate the skin. Other synthetic emulsifiers include silicones (methicone and dimethicone). Like mineral oils, silicones can affect the skin’s ability to expel waste products and thus irritate the skin. Silicones are also not biodegradable. Paraffin oils are extracted from by-products of crude oil distillation. They are easy to handle and cheap, so unfortunately they are used extensively. They often go by the names Mineral Oil, Paraffinum Liquidum, Vaseline, Paraffin, White mineral oil, Medical white oil, Oleum petrolen, Oleum vaselini, Paraffinum, Vaseline Oil, E 905, Paraffin Oil, Liquid paraffin. Polysorbate 20 and others with different numbers are harmful emulsifiers. Polysorbates are synthetic and produced on a large scale in industry, and residues of ethylene oxide may remain in the chemical. Polysorbates are also often used in organic soap; we have chosen not to sell it for safety reasons. 12. Anything containing the words: PPG and PEG (polyethylene glycol) PPG and PEG are so-called ethoxylated ingredients produced through heavy chemical processes requiring very strict safety measures. PEG is synthetically produced from propylene. These very dangerous substances are considered practical and cheap as, for example, emulsifiers, binders, and softeners. They can be found in makeup, skincare, shampoo, conditioner, baby wipes, and more. They can make the skin more permeable and allow harmful substances to enter. They are considered hormone-disrupting and carcinogenic. Carcinogenic because during breakdown they can release small amounts of formaldehyde. In ingredient lists, they are listed as PEG-8, Peg-100 Stearate, etc. 13. Phthalates Phthalates are softening chemicals widely used in plastics. Phthalates is a collective name for a large group of chemical substances based on phthalic acid. Phthalates are used in fragranced beauty products such as conventional perfume, creams, soap, and shampoo to make the scent last longer. Phthalates can be found in perfumes, vinyl/PVC floors, older toys, beach balls, gym balls, exercise mats, and more. Unfortunately, they are still often found in shaving creams, makeup, and skin creams despite many being banned by the EU. Therefore, it is always best to buy natural body care and replace plastic at home in the kitchen. They can be listed as dibutyl and diethylhexyl. 14. PFAS In cosmetics, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are most often found in waterproof makeup. PFAS is a large group of substances developed to resist dirt, grease, and water. The best-known PFAS substances are PFOS and PFOA. When they enter nature, they do not break down but remain and can accumulate in plants and animals. They persist for a long time in our bodies and in our environment. We ingest these substances when we drink water and through foods like fish, eggs, and fruit. Releases into nature occur during the manufacturing of products (such as kitchen utensils with Teflon). These substances are transferred via the placenta and breast milk to fetuses and breastfed infants. Studies show that PFAS substances can affect the immune system, birth weight, blood cholesterol levels, and liver enzymes. 200 PFAS substances are banned within the EU, but many other PFAS substances are still allowed. PFAS ingredients can be called; PTFE, Polytef, Polytefum, any words containing “perfluoro” or “polyfluoro,” C9-15 Fluoroalcohol phosphate, Ammonium C6-16 Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate, Polyperfluoroethoxymethoxy Difluoroethyl Peg Phosphat, Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl ether, Perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane. 15. Triclosan and fluoride Triclosan is used as an antibacterial agent in, among other things, toothpastes and dish soaps. It is very harmful to nature and questioned for human health – as it appears to have carcinogenic effects. Fortunately, this substance has significantly decreased in beauty products in recent years. We do not recommend fluoride in toothpaste, but that is a topic of its own. 16. Dioxin Dioxin has been identified as one of the 216 chemicals linked to breast cancer in animal studies on rats (Cancer’s 2007, article on carcinogens). The danger of dioxins was first pointed out as early as 1965 and later confirmed (1978), yet they are still used in today’s hair and skin products. Since the FDA recognized the dangers around 1985, it has been emphasized that manufacturers should avoid these toxins or reduce them to doses below 10 ppm. In 2005, a study by the USFDA (Federal Drug Administration, USA) showed that all seven tested tampon brands from well-known, conventional brands contained measurable levels of dioxin. So organic tampons should be an obvious choice. Humans mostly ingest dioxins and PCBs through food, including fatty fish. Feel free to read more about this at the National Food Agency. 17. Nanoparticles Nanoparticles are particles or substances that are nanosized (extremely small). They are therefore very reactive and can easily interact with our cells and be transported through the blood into our brains. In cosmetics, nanoparticles can be found in sunscreens. Nanoparticles can be present in many things like packaging, food, and textiles. These particles also have a negative environmental impact. At Glimja, we have zero tolerance for nanoparticles. This applies not only to cosmetics but also to other categories such as food, toys, household items, and more.
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Guide: Set intentions for the new year & achieve your goals
Now it's a new year again! In this article, we invite you to a simple but powerful exercise that helps you reflect on the past year and make the most of the new year. You can do it by yourself or perhaps together with someone you care about. The exercise is briefly about making a “most-important-to-me-in-life” list. Step 1: 5 important things Write down 5 things on a list that you appreciated about the past year 2023 that you want to carry with you into 2024. Maybe you have gotten to know yourself better, been more creative, met new people, found a new hobby, developed better habits, had a fun job, gained clarity on a matter, etc. Choose the very best things that you would like to see even more of in the future. Step 2: Reflection Now take your time and feel what these things really mean to you. What did these things give me – what insights? How did it feel? What would life look like if I put these things even more at the center in the coming year? What makes me happy? Step 3: Manifestation Now write down 5 practical things you need to do to make sure you focus on what you want or continue on the same path. Write them on the same list. Maybe you need to schedule time for yourself, save money, book a meeting with someone, call someone, go on a trip, take a course, talk about your feelings, say no to things, start meditating, start exercising, etc. Step 4: Visibility Put the list somewhere you can see it. For example, on the fridge. If you want, you can update it regularly during the new year and check off the practical things when you have done them. To celebrate yourself! Bonus: Make a vision board It’s a very nice addition to make a “vision board” with clear images that you feel reflect your longing and your visions. You cut, paste, and paint a picture of how you will feel and how your life will look in 2024 when you have these things in your life. A tip is to cut out pictures from magazines. It’s also possible to make a “vision board” on the computer if that is easier for you. Make the process your own. We at Glimja wish you a 2024 filled with everything you long for!
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Dry hair: Causes, tests, and natural care
It is when the hair cannot retain moisture or when the scalp does not produce enough oil to moisturize the hair. Find out if you have dry hair Do a simple test that reveals how dry your hair is. Take a freshly washed and wet hair strand. Twist it around your fingers (like dental floss) and start pulling. It should stretch about one third of its original length. Elastic = Good moisture balance: if it stretches and returns to its original length Stretchable = Dry hair: if it stretches and does not return to its original length Breaks = Damaged hair: if it breaks immediately or soon after the hair strand is stretched. Good habits for healthy hair 1. Wash your hair less often Daily shampooing can really dry out the hair. Try to reduce the number of washes per week and always use conditioner after shampooing. 2. Let your hair rest from heat Heat styling with curling irons and blow dryers simply has to wait so the hair can recover. Heat causes the hair to lose moisture retention, resulting in rough, frizzy, and dull hair. Always use heat protection when you need to heat-style your hair. Protect your hair with a hat or scarf from strong sun in the summer. If you have long hair, you can nourish and at the same time heat-protect your hair from the sun’s heat with hair oil. Hair oil is best applied to damp hair. Use hair masks regularly to restore the moisture balance in the hair. Wash your hair with lukewarm or cold water. 3. Care for your hair extra in dry environments or dry conditions climate Restore moisture in the hair if you spend a lot of time in front of the computer, are in dry indoor air, or a dry climate. A humidifier in the home office moisturizes both skin and hair. Spray moisturizing hair mist once or several times during the day. Use conditioner spray if you have very dry hair. 4. Cut down the number of products Using many styling products requires daily shampooing, which both damages and dries out the hair. Treating the hair with, for example, chemical-based hair dye also deteriorates hair quality. Use natural hair products and stop using hair products that contain silicones and other petroleum-based ingredients to avoid buildup on the hair. Do hair rinses regularly to remove buildup that prevents moisture absorption. Switch to natural styling products that are easier to wash out. Try organic hair dye that strengthens the hair. 5. Protect your hair from air pollution, saltwater, or pool baths Use a shower cap or wet your hair thoroughly with clean water so it is saturated before saltwater or pool baths. Do hair rinses now and then to remove air pollution and chemical residues. 6. Brush your hair every day Brushing the hair stimulates the scalp and distributes oils from the scalp along the lengths. Make sure to choose a good hairbrush that can gently detangle the hair without causing damage. Use products that make hair shiny and healthy Here are our best tips on organic and natural hair care products for dry hair. Shampoo that strengthens and adds shine to the hair Dr Sannas Strengthening Shampoo is exactly one that works incredibly well for all types of dry hair. This plant-based shampoo contains, among other things, horsetail, oats, and abyssinica oil that together strengthen, moisturize, and bring new life to dull hair. Restore shine with a hair rinse Chemicals, lime, and air pollution are examples of things that can cling tightly and weigh down the hair. Restore softness and shine by rinsing away buildup with a vinegar rinse. Do hair rinses regularly (preferably after shampooing) for a period to dissolve all layers of residue. Conditioner that detangles and moisturizes the hair Always use conditioner after shampooing if you have dry hair. Moisturizing conditioner restores the hair's moisture balance and naturally enhances shine. The hair and scalp pH are restored while the hair gains a smoother texture. The conditioner is silicone-free and works well for the conditioner method. Moisture boost during the day For extra moisture during the day, Anita Grants Aloe Rose Oil Free Hair Spritz is recommended. It is oil-free and provides plenty of moisture to the hair thanks to aloe vera and moisture-binding glycerin. Additionally, the hair structure is strengthened with organic MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). For those who like to spray often without hesitation, organic rose water is perfect. Loelle’s rose water is a very good moisturizer for both skin and hair and also smells very nice! Conditioner spray is a perfect alternative to conditioner if you have fine hair that easily becomes flat. It is also recommended for thick and very dry hair that needs an extra moisture boost during the day. Improve your hair’s health with a deep-acting hair mask Use Bruns hair mask regularly to prevent frizzy hair and split ends. The hair is repaired and nourished deeply. Both long and short hair regain shine, become stronger, and get a natural fall. Preserve moisture in your hair with hair oil Hair that can’t retain moisture quickly becomes dry again. By using hair oil, a barrier is created that locks in moisture in the hair and protects it. Hair oil also protects split ends and adds extra shine. Hair oil can be used in many different ways. As a hair mask for very dry and thick hair. Apply a few drops to dry or damp lengths and ends to retain moisture and add extra shine. Apply before showering to prevent dryness. Mix a few drops with your conditioner for extra care. Khadi Hair Oil Rose Repair is a fantastic rescue for dry hair. The hair becomes long-lastingly smooth and fragrant. Khadi’s other hair oils are also very rewarding. Protect and nourish your hair with the right kind of hair styling Use hair styling products that shape the hair while having protective and nourishing properties. They should be easy to wash out so they don’t weigh the hair down. All our organic and natural hair styling products are gentle on the hair. There are a few products that are especially good for dry hair: Bruns Hair Soufflé – best described as a hair gel and leave-in conditioner in one. Shapes and nourishes while adding volume and heat protection to the hair. Max Green Alchemy Sculpting Gel – an alcohol-free moisturizing hair gel that provides long-lasting hold. Bruns Salt Spray – moisturizing salt spray without alcohol. Gives hair structure and hold. We wish you the best with your hair, don’t hesitate to ask us! Looking for more volume in your hair? Then read this article.
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Complete care guide for curly hair - 6 simple tips
Curly hair differs from straight hair in many ways. For curls to be defined and bouncy, a different hair care routine and products are required. Here we share tips on habits and products for those with natural curls! Why is hair curly? It’s important to understand why hair is curly to care for it properly and not work against its nature. The shape of the hair follicle in the scalp determines the hair’s texture and form. The follicle is round in people with straight hair and oval in those with curly hair. The flatter the oval shape of the follicle, the curlier the hair. The angle of the hair follicle also matters. A straight hair follicle (vertical in the scalp) produces straight hair, while an angled hair follicle in the scalp produces curls. Curly hair has more sulfur bonds (disulfide bonds). Thanks to the hair’s shape, some parts of the hair come closer together, making these bonds form more easily. Good routines for curly hair It’s common for both wavy and curly hair to be fragile, dry, and frizzy. The reason is that the oil (sebum) produced by the scalp has difficulty spreading down to the hair ends due to the hair’s curly structure. Therefore, it’s especially important that your hair care routine is gentle while preserving moisture in the hair. 1. Wash your hair without sulfates Sulfates are a collective term for cleansing agents (soap substances) that foam extra well and clean thoroughly. On skin and hair, they can be a bit too cleansing and especially very drying. Sulfates make hair flyaway, big, frizzy, and extremely dry. Therefore, choose a shampoo that is completely sulfate-free. Feel free to read about reasons to choose a sulfate-free shampoo to learn more about sulfates in shampoos! 2. Wash your hair with cold water Preferably wash your hair with cold water or at least lukewarm water. It bears repeating that hot water dries out your hair more than you think. Try gradually lowering the temperature. Your hair will thank you. 3. Brush your hair when it’s wet Curly hair that is dry and brittle breaks easily when brushed. Therefore, brush your hair when it’s wet to reduce friction and frizz. Ideally, brush after applying conditioner. The hairbrush can then detangle hair more gently. 4. “Plop” your hair with a t-shirt Terry towels have their merits. They can be heavenly soft and still cause a lot of damage, especially if the hair is already dry and brittle. No matter how gentle you are. It’s the very structure of the terry cloth that causes the damage. Instead, try “plopping” your hair (plop in English). You need an old t-shirt (preferably large and long-sleeved). A microfiber cloth also works well. The trick is not to rub or twist the hair. The goal is to gather the hair into a pile on the crown for minimal damage and beautiful curls. Do as follows: Squeeze the water out of the hair. Optionally distribute moisturizing and nourishing products in the hair. Lay your t-shirt flat with the sleeves farthest from you. Turn your head down and place the hair tips in the middle of the t-shirt. Bend your head straight down so that the hair gathers into a pile in the middle of the t-shirt. Place the end of the t-shirt against your forehead and fold the sides to the nape. Hold the sides of the t-shirt at the nape. Grab the neckline (the other end of the t-shirt) and place it at the nape of your neck. Grab the sleeves and tie a knot at the front near your forehead. You may need to twist the sleeves before tying for a better fit. Let dry for 10-20 minutes or as long as needed. Plopping is suitable if you want to reduce hair volume, get more prominent or defined and bouncier curls. Here is an example of how you can “plop” your hair. 5. Blow-dry with a diffuser Heat is not good. When you do want to blow-dry your hair, you can use the diffuser attachment. The diffuser lifts and hugs your curls while drying. The hair doesn’t tangle and is therefore less damaged. Don’t forget to always use heat protection before you start blow-drying. 6. Sleep with a braid Try braiding your hair before going to bed. It prevents tangling during sleep and protects it from damage. Take the opportunity to nourish your hair with leave-in conditioner or hair oil before braiding. Hair care products for curly hair The best products for curly hair are those that provide maximum moisture and nourishment without making the hair greasy or heavy. Naturally, you should avoid overly rich products if you have fine hair and use sufficiently nourishing products if you have thicker hair. Sulfate-free shampoos for curly hair Most people with thick and curly hair love Brun's Shampoo no. 02. Rahua Classic Shampoo is also often a big favorite for those with curly hair. For those who travel a lot or want to reduce plastic use, we recommend Lovely Lavender Shampoo from Grön Lycka. Conditioner for fine curls If you use more conditioner than shampoo and the hair still constantly feels dry, you can try washing your hair with conditioner according to the conditioner method. Yes, it works and the hair gets clean. Read more about the conditioner method. If all conditioners feel insufficient, you can also try different leave-in conditioners. The moisture in the hair is sealed in and the curls stay soft and shiny. Hair rinse for less frizz and more shine Hair rinse has an acidic pH and is good to use instead of shampoo if the hair rarely gets dirty but just dry. It’s also great to rinse the hair now and then (e.g., after shampooing) to dissolve buildup, reduce frizz, and make the hair shiny and healthy. Hair oils suitable for curly hair Jojoba oil and coconut oil are the plant-based oils most popular for curly hair. Argan oil and camellia oil are also favored by those with finer hair. Camellia oil is excellent when you want an oil that doesn’t look greasy in the hair. Hair oil can be used in many different ways to lock in moisture and nourish the hair strands. Here’s how you can use hair oil for curly hair: As a pre-wash treatment before shampooing. A few drops in your conditioner for extra care. Distribute in damp hair after washing for extra shine and to define curls. Distribute a few drops in the hair to immediately reduce frizz. Distribute a few drops in braided or tied-up hair. Distribute in the hair for an intensive hair treatment. Protect from heat, style, and define the curls Do you have fine to medium-thick hair with natural waves that feels straight and frizzy? Then you can get more resilient hair and more elastic curls with the right products. Watch out for alcohol in styling products (gel, mousse, and spray) that can dry out your hair. For soft and manageable curls, we recommend plenty of moisture and nourishment. Squeeze out the curls with Bruns Hair Soufflé and use Bruns hair mask regularly. The hair mask can also be used as a styling cream to define and protect the curls. These products also provide some heat protection when using a hairdryer or straightener. For regular blow-drying, we recommend Logona's blow-dry spray or Bruns protection as heat protection. Bruns also has a salt cream that is an "all-around" styling product and heat protection suitable for all hair types and lengths. Also read about how you can take care of your blonde hair, especially if it is damaged and broken after bleaching!
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Magnesium Deficiency: Common Symptoms and Simple Solutions
Many of us have magnesium deficiency. It can show as: calf cramps, tingling, restless legs, tense and aching muscles, weakness, tremors, anxiety, brittle bones and teeth, eye twitches, dizziness, headaches, and sleep problems. You may also feel low on energy. Why does the body need magnesium? The body uses up magnesium every day from normal functions, such as muscle movement, heartbeat, and hormone production. Magnesium not only helps regulate calcium, potassium, and sodium, but is also important for cellular health. Magnesium has been shown to help calm the body, muscles, and improve mood. 8 bodily functions that magnesium affects Electrolyte balance Energy metabolism Nervous system Muscle function Protein synthesis Psychological functions Bone structure Teeth Magnesium can therefore help you to: relieve constipation ease muscle pain promote calmness prevent headaches balance dehydration promote good sleep boost energy levels improve bone health Magnesium is especially important for you who: train hard and sweat a lot who are or have been exhausted who have migraines who have sleep problems who are older who experience a lot of stress, as stress increases magnesium excretion who have heart problems who have high blood pressure who have migraines with PMS (a B-complex is also recommended) who have problems with alcohol consumption How to find magnesium in food Although we need smaller amounts of magnesium compared to other nutrients, we must regularly replenish it either from food or with magnesium supplements to prevent deficiency symptoms. Eat these 9 foods daily to get more magnesium: dark leafy greens like spinach or chard beans like mung beans and black beans potatoes pumpkin seeds avocado broccoli Brussels sprouts nuts like almonds and cashews cocoa But remember that significant amounts are lost when cooking food, so try to eat your vegetables fresh, raw, or lightly cooked. Unfortunately, most people do not get enough magnesium from food alone, so magnesium supplements may be necessary. For example, we can take magnesium supplements during periods when we feel the need to replenish our stores. How much magnesium should I take in supplements? The recommended daily intake is about 200-300 mg per day from supplements. The rest should come from food. An average person gets about 200 mg from food. Many people think magnesium supplements are best taken before bedtime or before dinner in the evening. If you take medications, you should leave at least 2-4 hours between taking your medicine and supplements. This applies to all supplements and herbs. Increased magnesium needs may occur when you take antiarrhythmics, cardiac glycosides, cholesterol-lowering drugs, neuroleptics, birth control pills, and estrogen. However, magnesium can have negative effects if you take anticoagulants, diabetes medications, urological drugs, and diuretics. Talk to your doctor! Wondering which type of magnesium you need? Read this blog article. Did you know this about magnesium? Magnesium is the second most common mineral in every cell. The body depends on magnesium for over 300 enzymatic reactions. Magnesium & Stress Magnesium balances the body's natural stress reaction to maintain calm and peace. Magnesium "plays an inhibitory key role in the regulation and neurotransmission of the normal stress response," so we need sufficient amounts to maintain this stress response properly. In the body, the HPA axis leads the work of assessing and managing stress. "A" stands for the adrenal glands, the almond-shaped glands located on top of the kidneys at the back of the body. They regulate stress by controlling the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. The adrenal glands also use cortisol to manage the sleep-wake cycle. They are assisted by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland ("H" and "P" in the HPA axis). Adequate levels of magnesium, among others, help maintain balance in the HPA axis to promote a stable mood and help us stay calm. Magnesium is often called the "relaxation mineral." Magnesium & Sleep Magnesium relieves tension and contributes to restful sleep. Magnesium also helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for bringing you into a state of calm and relaxation. Magnesium helps regulate certain neurotransmitters and melatonin, which is responsible for maintaining the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm). Magnesium & the Skeleton In the musculoskeletal system, magnesium contributes to bone development, protein synthesis, as well as muscle and nerve function. It also contributes to the active transport of calcium and potassium across cell membranes, which is crucial for maintaining a normal heart rhythm, muscle tissue contraction, and nerve impulse transmission. Since magnesium promotes healthy muscle function and recovery, it supports healthy muscles. Although calcium and vitamins D and K2 get the credit for maintaining strong and healthy bones, magnesium also does its fair share.
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Guide: Find the right form of magnesium for your needs
Have you wondered why all magnesium supplements have different names in the ingredient list? Which type of magnesium do you need? In this article, we list different forms of magnesium and what they can contribute. 1. Magnesium Glycinate Magnesium glycinate can also be called magnesium bisglycinate and is magnesium plus the amino acid glycine. It is a chelated form of magnesium considered one of the easiest forms of magnesium for the body to absorb. An ideal type for those trying to correct a deficiency. This type is very popular for promoting relaxation and good sleep. It also works well for sensitive stomachs. 2. Magnesium Chelate Magnesium chelate is a form of magnesium bound to several amino acids and is said to be one of the easiest forms of magnesium for the body to absorb. Magnesium chelate provides energy in the cells and supports during exhaustion and fatigue. 3. Magnesium Citrate Magnesium citrate is magnesium bound with citric acid. This form has laxative properties and is therefore often taken to prevent constipation. Magnesium citrate is often one of the components in magnesium blends. It is appreciated because it has a lower price. 4. Magnesium Lactate Magnesium lactate has high bioavailability and supports functions in the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and digestive system. This type is well absorbed by the body and is gentle on the digestive system. 5. Magnesium Malate Magnesium malate, which is popular, is made from magnesium and malic acid. This type improves energy levels in the body and reduces muscle pain. This is a good magnesium type for low energy. It is a good choice for increasing low magnesium levels in the blood and for people with muscle pain or fatigue. 6. Magnesium Taurate Magnesium taurate consists of magnesium and the amino acid L-taurine. It has high bioavailability and is gentle on the stomach, mainly mentioned in connection with counteracting heart arrhythmias, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular issues. It is also said to promote healthy blood sugar levels. 7. Magnesium Orotate Magnesium orotate is a combination of magnesium and orotic acid. It is considered one of the easiest forms of magnesium for the body to absorb. Improves athletic performance and recovery. This type of magnesium is said to reach all the way into the mitochondria. 8. [Liposomal Magnesium](http://Liposomal Magnesium) Liposomal Magnesium contains magnesium enclosed by liposomes. Liposomes are "fat bubbles" that transport the magnesium directly to the cells, and this form is therefore considered to have high bioavailability. Liposomal form can be beneficial if you know you have low nutrient levels or an extra need for a specific substance. It is also perfect for anyone who has difficulty swallowing capsules or taking pills. 9. Magnesium Gluconate Magnesium gluconate is magnesium chelated with gluconic acid. It is sometimes mentioned as good for treating low magnesium levels in the blood. The form is found, among others, in magnesium complexes such as SuperMag, and many of our customers feel it provides relaxation quickly, as it is a powder and easily absorbed by the body. Such a powder is usually chosen to be taken in the evening for e.g., cramps, migraines, and constipation. It does not itself provide as much magnesium to the body in the end as some other forms but has its purpose. 10. Enzymedica's ATA Mg® ATA Mg® is a patented form of magnesium. This form of magnesium offers absorption into the brain and into the cells. ATA Mg® combines magnesium with taurine. Taurine is an amino acid the body uses to deliver magnesium ions to the cells. 11. Magnesium succinate Magnesium succinate is a magnesium salt. It is a good form of magnesium for relaxation and good sleep. 12. Magnesium oxide Magnesium oxide is a common form of magnesium used to relieve constipation, supports cramps and muscle tension. This form is often used for digestive issues such as heartburn and constipation. It is appreciated because it often has a lower price but may not have as high bioavailability as other forms. 13. Magnesium carbonate Magnesium carbonate has high bioavailability and also works for those with digestive problems. Magnesium carbonate is often used for relief of heartburn and stomach discomfort, like magnesium oxide. 14. Magnesium chloride Magnesium chloride is magnesium in liquid transdermal form, i.e., it is absorbed through the skin. This type supports a healthy nervous system and has high bioavailability. This form can pass through the skin and into the body and is suitable for those who struggle with digestive issues or become very loose in the bowels from oral magnesium supplements. 15. Magnesium sulfate Magnesium sulfate is also called Epsom salt or bitter salt. It promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and helps the body eliminate toxins. This type is only for external use, e.g., in a foot bath or bath and as a compress on the skin. It is often recommended by physiotherapists and specialists in sports injuries. 16. Magnesium L-threonate Magnesium L-Threonate is not approved in the EU according to EU Commission Regulation No. 1170/2009. It is therefore not allowed to be sold within the EU. In the USA, this is a popular form. What is elemental magnesium? Under the nutritional content on a magnesium supplement, it often says for example: Magnesium glycinate 2500 mg – of which magnesium 300 mg or elemental magnesium. What does that mean? Magnesium is always bound to other substances to be absorbed by the body, usually to an amino acid such as glycine (magnesium glycinate or magnesium taurate) or other acids like malate (malic acid) or citrate (citric acid). Elemental magnesium is the amount of pure magnesium you get when the substance to which the magnesium is bound is subtracted. Would you like to read more about magnesium? There is a lot of interesting information to explore about this mineral.
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