Health Blog
Health Blog
Organic hair dye: How to cover gray hair naturally
Hair color without synthetic ingredients and unnecessary chemicals is becoming more and more popular. It is even possible to dye gray hair with organic herbal hair colors. Depending on your hair quality and color, some clever tricks may be needed to get a good result. In this post, we answer the most common questions about dyeing hair naturally. Contents: Why should I dye with organic hair color? Dye as often as you want Why is white or gray hair harder to dye with organic hair color? How do I dye gray hair with organic hair colors? Single coloring Two-step coloring with blonde herbal hair color* Step 1: Blonde herbal hair color* Step 2: Blonde to light brown herbal hair color Two-step coloring with red herbal hair color* Step 1: Red herbal hair color* Step 2: Brown to dark herbal hair color What should I consider when choosing hair color? How long does the color last? Things to consider when dyeing with organic hair dyes Preparations Dyeing After dyeing Common questions about herbal hair dyes Why should I dye with organic hair color? As age takes its toll, it’s not just gray hairs that appear. Hair follicles shrink, hair grows more slowly, and hair growth decreases (hair loss). Some also experience thinner hair strands and poorer hair quality. That’s why it’s especially important not to dye hair with chemicals that damage hair and irritate the scalp. Natural and organic hair colors: is made of herbs and is plant-based. contains no chemicals that damage or irritate hair and scalp. coats the hair strands like a protective layer. strengthens the hair and adds shine. is biodegradable and does not harm our environment. Dye as often as you want Because organic hair colors do not alter the hair's natural pigmentation, they do not damage the hair. You can dye your hair as often as you want. The hair just becomes stronger and shinier. Think of each dyeing as a hair treatment! You have to dare to take the step and try. Always do a test strand first (for example, at the nape). Why is white or gray hair harder to dye with organic hair color? The plant pigments in organic hair colors coat the hair strands by binding to the hair's natural pigment. Since gray hair has little pigment and white hair has none at all, plant pigments adhere poorly or not at all. How do I dye gray hair with organic hair colors? In general, plant pigments adhere poorly to pigment-poor hair, except for red henna which is an exception. The red pigment is small and can also adhere well to white hair. This gives us the advantage of being able to add pigment to pigment-poor hair. In this way, it is possible to apply another color on top of the red pigments if you want a color other than red. Single coloring There are a few lucky souls with gray (not white) hair who get a great result without coloring their hair in two steps. Usually, these are people with fine hair strands and not too smooth hair who succeed with just one coloring. This can be anyone from blondes to brunettes. Feel free to try if you think you belong to this minority. Darker hair with white is almost impossible to get a good result with just one coloring. Then two-step coloring is a must. Two-step coloring with blonde herbal hair color Two-step coloring with blonde herbal hair color is for you who: have light hair and want to color to a blonde or light brown shade Step 1: Blonde herbal hair color Since you want a light final result, 100% red henna is far too red and dark for you to use as an intermediate step. The intense red color will shine through your light hair color, which is not always desirable. You should therefore first add red plant pigments with a blonde shade. Yep! Blonde colors contain more or less red (double-check the ingredient list for Lawsonia Inermis). It does not give an intense color result but the gray hairs get a little extra pigment, just enough for the color in step 2 to take hold. Step 2: Blonde to light brown herbal hair color You can color with your second and final herbal hair color immediately after rinsing out the color in step 1 or the next day. The longer you leave the color on, the better the coverage of the color from step 1. Two-step coloring with red herbal hair color Two-step coloring with red hair color or 100% red henna is for you who: want to color to a brown or dark shade. Step 1: Red herbal hair color Choose a hair color with a lot or 100% henna (Lawsonia Inermis). This gives the hair (including white strands) an intense red shade. The more gray or white hair you have, the more red is needed in this step. The hair then gets a lot of extra pigment that sticks well, which is necessary for step 2. Brown and dark shades usually contain a lot of blue. Blue color pigments are large (compared to, for example, red pigments) and therefore need more pigmented hair to adhere well. The advantage of red henna is that it is permanent. Even though the color fades somewhat over time, the pigmentation is enough that next time you only need to color the roots, which saves both time and money. Step 2: Brown to dark herbal hair color The last step with your dark herbal hair dye is done the same way as step 1 but with a brown herbal hair dye. Dye immediately after the red color or the next day. What should I consider when choosing hair color? There are five important things to keep in mind when choosing a color: It is not possible to get a lighter hair color than your own since there are no bleaching agents in the organic hair dyes. However, it is possible to create the illusion of lighter hair. For example, dark brown hair can get lighter highlights from a brown-red color mix. It is possible to get the same or darker color than your own natural hair color. If you choose a hair color that is much darker than your own, a 2-step dyeing process is required whether you have gray hair or not. If you were to dye directly with a dark color, you will very likely get greenish-blue discolorations in your hair. This also applies to those with naturally cool hair colors without red in them, such as ash blonde. Red henna gives a permanent color result. Herbal hair dyes with red tend to last longer. Plant dyes without red henna wash out faster. The red henna is called Lawsonia Inermis in the ingredient list. The powder dyes are a fresh product that gives more intense results compared to the ready-mixed cream dyes in tubes. How long does the color last? Warm and red herbal hair dyes last longer, as red adheres more easily to the hair strands. Red henna gives a permanent result. Hair dyes with some red henna range from semi-permanent to non-permanent. It simply depends on how red the color is. When an herbal hair dye is not permanent, the color lasts as long as a toner. Then the color result lasts about 4 weeks before washing out completely. Things to consider when dyeing with organic hair dyes Organic hair dyes or herbal hair dyes differ from chemical-based hair dyes. For beginners, there are some things that can be good to know. Preparations Clean hair – The hair does not need to be freshly washed. The important thing is that it is free from styling products, dirt, oil, etc. Otherwise, the herbal hair dye may have difficulty adhering to the hair. Herbal hair dyes also adhere poorly to chemically treated hair. Ideally, wait 2 months before dyeing with herbal hair dye if you have recently dyed or chemically treated your hair. Dry/damp hair – It works just as well to dye dry hair as damp (freshly washed) hair. Metals – Herbal hair dye can react with metals. Therefore, do not mix your herbal hair dye in a bowl or with a fork made of metal. Also, do not use metal hair clips when dyeing your hair. Dry skin – If you have dry skin, it’s a good idea to moisturize your face with an oil or richer cream. If the skin still gets stained, it can easily be removed with oil or soap and water. Test first – Always do a strand test! Even though herbal hair dyes are free from allergenic chemicals, you can still react to natural plants. A strand test also works as a check where you can see the result and know how long processing time you need. Dyeing Green plant dye – Regardless of which shade you choose, the color paste will be green, as it consists of finely ground plants. Dye systematically – dye in sections, part by part. White/gray hair – requires extra herbal hair dye paste. The white or gray strands should be completely covered with the color mixture (no gray strands should show). Color brush – forget back brushes and other substitutes. Invest in an herbal hair dye brush, so you can easily dye section by section. It also makes it easy to apply an even and perfect amount of color mixture that covers the strands. The brush can make a big difference and save a lot of time. It will last for many years. Processing time – Longer processing time makes your color last longer and can also give a more intense/darker result (compared to shorter processing time). Leave the color on for 2 hours or longer for maximum color result. After dyeing Shampoo – do not shampoo for 24 hours so the color has a chance to set properly. This will make the color result intense and long-lasting. This is especially important if you are dyeing pigment-poor hair. Organic conditioner without soap agents is fine. Oxidation – the color result can oxidize and darken. Therefore, wait 24 hours before deciding to dye your hair darker. Leftover dye – the mixed paste cannot be saved, but you can save the powder itself. Clip the bag with a bread clip, store it cool and dark, and it will last for several months. Bleaching hair – bleaching hair after an herbal hair dye is a bad idea. Usually, the hair gets discolorations (especially if the hairdresser is not familiar with plant-based dyes). That’s why it’s important to always do a strand test to avoid surprises. Common questions about herbal hair dyes Here we have gathered common questions and answers about herbal hair dyes. Missing a question? Feel free to comment on this post and we will answer your question. Why am I not getting any color result? There can be many reasons such as: your hair was not clean from dirt, oils, styling products, various leave-in products, chemical residues. you let the hair dye process for too short a time. The color mix was too diluted and runny (too much water). The color mix was too dry (too little water), crumbly, and hard to apply. You applied too little hair color to your hair. You chose a color that is lighter than or too close to your own hair color. You have too much pigment-poor hair (gray, white hair, or cool hair color that has no red in it). You need to dye your hair in two steps or add some red to your color mix. What do I do if it turned out too dark? You can shampoo your hair if the color result is too dark or not at all what you expected. This way, you get a weaker or more muted color result. Wash out the color with shampoo once or several times immediately after dyeing. The longer you wait to shampoo, the harder it is to wash out the color. Why didn’t the color result look like the picture on the package? Because natural herbal hair color sits on top of your own hair, the result is individual and completely unique. If your natural hair has variations (which most do), there will be color variations in the dyed hair as well. Also, some hair types absorb red pigments more easily and blue pigments less easily. The same hair color can therefore give different results on different hair. Always do a strand test to avoid unwanted results. If the result wasn’t quite what you wanted, you can dye again with a different color or mix your powder color with another shade. Why does my hair get redder with each dyeing? Most herbal hair colors contain more or less red. Some of the red pigments probably remain and are enhanced with the next dyeing. Instead, dye with a less red color (if you have a blonde shade, choose a lighter blonde). Can I mix the herbal hair colors? The big advantage of herbal hair color in powder form is that you can mix them for a custom color. Mix the powder colors first before adding water. Why don’t I get any color result in the first step of a 2-step dyeing?? Try increasing or maximizing the processing time. If that doesn’t help, you simply need more red color pigments in your first dyeing in step 1. Try adding a tablespoon of red henna during the first dyeing with a blonde shade. If you dyed step 1 with a reddish-brown hair color, you should instead dye with 100% pure henna. Are you wondering about anything else regarding dyeing your hair with herbal hair color, or do you have great tips to share with the rest of us? Please feel free to leave a comment!
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Dry or surface-dry skin? Differences and treatment
Is dry skin the same as dehydrated skin? The answer is no. They are two completely different conditions and are treated differently. Learn all about the differences in this post. What is the difference between dry and dehydrated skin? Dry skin is a skin type where the skin lacks sebum (oil), while dehydrated skin is a (temporary) skin condition where the skin suffers from a lack of water and moisture. You can have both dry and dehydrated skin. If dehydration is not treated, you may eventually develop dry skin as a symptom. Read more about dry skin and dehydrated skin. Different signs of dry and dehydrated skin Dryness and dehydration show in different ways, although there are a few similarities: Dehydrated skin can cause fine lines, superficial wrinkles, dull and lifeless skin, uneven skin tone, itching, dark circles, tired sunken eyes, dry lipsDry skin can cause dry and white flakes, flaky skin, rough skin | x | irritated and red skin, tendency to skin problems like eczema, itching, psoriasis, dermatitis, tight feeling especially after showering, bathing or swimming, both small superficial and larger deeper skin cracks that can bleed, and dull skin. Find out if your skin is dehydrated If you don’t see clear signs of any of the different skin conditions, you can do a simple pinch test. Here’s how: Pinch the skin together for a few seconds Release If the skin quickly returns and smooths out immediately, your skin is probably not dehydrated. If the skin slowly or takes a while to return to its original, smooth form, then your skin is likely dehydrated. Which ingredients help with dry skin versus dehydrated skin? Dryness and dehydration are treated differently. If you have used products that didn’t help, it may be because you treated your skin with the wrong kind of products. Here is a list of ingredients you need depending on whether your skin is dry or dehydrated. For dehydrated skin, suitable ingredients are: Aloe vera, Glycerin, Honey, Hyaluronic acid, Lactic acid, Seaweed, algae, Water, hydrolates.For dry skin, suitable ingredients are: Hyaluronic acid, Lactic acid, Rich oils like nut oils, avocado oil, Shea butter, Mango butter, Lanolin, Waxes like beeswax. What foods help with dry versus dehydrated skin When skincare products alone are not enough, you need to eat and drink right to bring your skin into balance. Here is a list of foods and drinks you need more of depending on whether you have dehydrated or dry skin. For dehydrated skin, suitable foods are: Water, fresh fruits and vegetables, water-rich foods like watermelon, celery, and cucumber.For dry skin, suitable foods are: Omega-3 rich foods like avocado, seeds, nuts, fish and shellfish, as well as healthy fatty acids (e.g., olive oil). -> Read more about how to treat dry skin here and dehydrated skin here.
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13 NEW skincare trends you should watch in 2022
Since the start of the pandemic, the focus on skincare has been huge. People wore less makeup and spent more time on skincare. This trend will continue to be strong this year. Let’s look at the hottest skincare trends of 2022. 1. Bakuchiol Many more products with bakuchiol will be launched. Bakuchiol will become as obvious a star ingredient as vitamin C. Having a good natural alternative to retinol that doesn’t irritate the skin will further strengthen the anti-stress skincare trend. Even, smooth, firm skin without disturbing the skin’s barrier is so 2022. The question is whether the Indian plant Babchi will be grown and harvested in time to meet demand. By the way, it’s good to keep track of the percentage of bakuchiol a product contains to get value for your money. At least if bakuchiol is the main ingredient in a product. Expect to see new eye creams, serums, face creams, and oils starring bakuchiol. 2. Effective and bioactive ingredients Active ingredients like retinol, niacinamide, and vitamin C have trended in recent years and will continue to be popular this year. What we will see more of, however, are other bioactive ingredients. Bakuchiol, which we have already mentioned, but also antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols. Ingredients like algae extracts and exotic cold-pressed oils will also become really popular. They are more complex in their composition and usually contain various antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids that together quickly provide noticeable effects on the skin. Suki Skincare and 100% Pure are examples of brands that are heavily investing in bioactive ingredients. 3. Liposomes When we crave active ingredients, we must not forget that we also want fast-acting and deep-penetrating skincare products. This is where liposomes come into play. Liposomes are very small bubbles made of the same material as our cell membranes. These tiny bubbles encapsulate potent ingredients and deliver them quickly to the deeper layers of the skin where they are released. They are used in skincare to provide faster action with better effect. Liposomes take skincare to the next level and are definitely something we will see more of this year. Here are some examples of facial products with liposomes:Suki Moisture-rich Brightening Mask Suki Radical Results Youth Serum Suki Concentrated Clarifying Toner Suki Resurfacing Enzyme Peel Suki Balancing Day Lotion 4. Smart multi-products There are many advantages to multi-products: We avoid buying a bunch of different products, which saves both money and space in the bathroom cabinet. A safe bet to buy since the products are always used, which reduces waste. They get used up before they go bad. A positive thing for our wallet and the environment. Multi-products are our best gym and travel companions. Besides oils, balms, and salves, other multi-products will trend. Those beyond the ordinary like Bruns balsam nr 3 which can be used as body lotion, cleansing milk for the face, and shaving cream. 5. Tools Being able to get results without products, cosmetic or surgical procedures has long been popular. Various tools that take our skincare routine to a whole new level have long existed and they are here to stay. More brands will release their own tools such as cleansing brushes and suction cups. 6. Zero waste and plastic-free Zero waste is getting hotter every year and this year is no exception. More brands are launching plastic-reduced, plastic-free, and sometimes completely packaging-free alternatives. We will also see more refill systems. A sustainable trend in the right direction! 7. Upcycling Upcycling means taking waste or by-products and transforming them into a completely new product with higher value. The product is therefore recycled upward in value, instead of being downgraded at each recycling step. Upcycling is hotter than ever and the concept will get much more attention in the new year. 8. Concentrated products Sustainability thinking—quality over quantity—will take more space both among manufacturers and consumers. We want a shampoo that lasts 2-3 times longer like shampoo bars, a small, economical drop of toothpaste on the toothbrush. The advantages of concentrated products here are: pure ingredients, minimal or no unnecessary fillers buy less often, reduce shipping/transport better effect, concentrated, undiluted 9. Double masking Double masking is the new trend. During the pandemic, the use of face masks has drastically increased. Instead of going to the salon occasionally, we now aim for frequent mini-facial treatments at home. Double masking means using two or more masks one after the other – just like in a salon treatment. You combine different face masks targeting specific skin issues. For example, you start with an exfoliating mask, then a deep-cleansing one, and finish with a moisturizing mask. Double masking thus provides broader and better results compared to a single mask trying to do everything. NOTE! Combining face masks that do the same thing serves no purpose and can actually over-treat the skin. 10. Anti-blue light The pandemic has made us spend even more time in front of the computer screen. That’s why skincare products that protect against blue light continue to be something we crave. i+m face creams are examples of products that protect the skin against blue light. 11. Good bacteria During the year, we will see more beauty products and even makeup with good bacteria. It involves fermented ingredients, probiotics, and prebiotics in skincare. Good bacteria act as active protection against bad bacteria, soothe inflammations, and counteract skin aging. The good bacteria are an important part of skin health. Brands like 100% Pure and Dr Sannas offer some products with beneficial bacteria. 12. Balancing products Regardless of skin type and age, the golden balance is the ultimate goal. We have now shifted the focus from solving specific skin problems to the overall health of the skin. Skin in balance is fundamentally stronger, self-repairing, and healthier. Strengthening the skin's overall balance is the shortcut to solving all types of skin problems for healthier and more beautiful skin. There are different balances to achieve: balanced sebum production pH balance moisture balance bacteria/microflora balance A single product cannot provide total balance to the skin; all steps in the skincare routine should together support and supply what the skin needs to achieve balance. Sometimes the diet also needs to be adjusted to support the skin from within. 13. Strengthen the skin barrier The desire to strengthen the skin barrier is yet another holistic approach for more resilient skin against external and internal stress factors. As a counterpoint to trendy bioactive products, strengthening anti-stress products will take an increasingly larger role this year. Sometimes the use of cleansers and acids can be excessive, which weakens the skin barrier. Then you need to work on rebuilding the skin barrier. Skin with a damaged or weak skin barrier tends to: be dry and flaky itch, get eczema and similar conditions develop uneven skin tone become sensitive, easily red and inflamed more prone to various skin infections Strengthening the skin barrier is actually quite simple. However, it requires changing your routines more than just changing products: reduce the number of products in the skincare routine so the skin is not overtreated let the skin rest from acids, overly stimulating and active products stop burdening the skin with chemicals and substances it cannot utilize, absorb, or that do not benefit the skin focus on anti-stress: get enough sleep and drink enough, relax, and eat foods that strengthen the body and its defenses When it comes to products, choose mild and pure ones that can hydrate and soothe irritated skin. The products should provide the skin with plenty of moisture and be able to keep the skin hydrated for a long time. Use products with ingredients such as vegetable oils, aloe vera, squalane, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, sorbitol, niacinamide (active but mild), and antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative stress.
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Tamanu Oil: Natural Relief for Dry Skin and Eczema
You may have heard of tamanu oil? If not, it’s time to remember it. This beauty oil could be the next it-oil. Contents: What is tamanu oil? 8 benefits of tamanu oil Disadvantages of tamanu oil 8 ways to use tamanu oil ReviewMy sagging skinSmall blemishesMy eczemaFinal thoughts My dry skin My saggy skin Small blemishes My eczema Final note What is tamanu oil? Tamanu oil is a rich and potent nut oil usually pressed from the seeds of the Tamanu trees, but also from their nuts. The trees grow in Asia and Australia. The oil itself has a yellow-green color with a distinct nutty scent. What makes tamanu oil special is: its unique composition of fatty acids that it contains potent antioxidants that it has anti-inflammatory properties that it has a comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5 (where 0 does not clog pores at all) These properties make tamanu oil a very useful ingredient in skincare products, especially since it has been shown to be effective on the skin even in low concentrations and diluted form. 8 benefits of tamanu oil 1. Moisturizes and rebuilds the skin barrier What distinguishes tamanu oil is its rich content of fatty acids compared to other oils. The oil is especially rich in omega 9, 6, and 3. It softens, moisturizes, strengthens the skin barrier, and is therefore beneficial for dry skin. 2. Protects against free radicals Tamanu oil naturally contains potent antioxidants and polyphenols, which protect against oxidative stress caused by air pollution and sunlight. 3. Stimulates collagen formation The reason tamanu oil is a popular anti-aging ingredient is that it promotes the production of collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). A well-known GAG is hyaluronic acid. GAGs are essential for collagen and elastin formation. Together, these make the skin elastic, firm, and promote damaged skin. 4. Smooths wrinkles As a result of tamanu oil protecting against free radicals, UV damage, and stimulating collagen production, fine lines are smoothed out. Additionally, studies have shown that tamanu oil can absorb UV rays across a fairly broad spectrum. However, more studies are needed to confirm its UV protection. 5. Regenerating Since tamanu oil repairs the skin, it also has some effect on scarring and stretch marks. Existing scars and stretch marks can be reduced and uneven skin smoothed out. 6. Antibacterial properties Tamanu oil is also widely used on acne-prone skin. It has been shown to counteract the bacteria that cause acne (p. acnes and p. granulosum). The oil can therefore help with inflammatory acne. 7. Anti-inflammatory properties For centuries, tamanu oil has been used on various skin problem areas. The oil contains the anti-inflammatory compound calophyllolide, which may explain tamanu oil's positive effect on inflamed eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, red and irritated skin, fungal infections, and similar conditions. Note that tamanu oil cannot replace medication. Always consult a doctor if your skin problems do not improve. Disadvantages of tamanu oil Tamanu oil is a fantastic oil with many uses. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Tamanu oil: has a scent that can be difficult to appreciate, especially if you are not used to nutty and herbal scents. You either like the scent or not at all. is toxic to eat and should therefore only be used topically on the skin. Keep the oil out of reach of children. is a nut oil, so it is not suitable for nut allergy sufferers. is very active, which can irritate sensitive skin. Try diluting tamanu oil with a mild oil like almond oil. has a fairly low comedogenic effect on the skin. Despite this, those who easily get clogged skin may have negative results from the oil. To still benefit from tamanu oil’s advantages, you can dilute it with an oil that rates between 0-1 on the comedogenic scale. Examples of such oils are argan oil, hemp seed oil, and safflower oil. 8 ways to use tamanu oil There are many different ways to use tamanu oil. We list the most common ways you can benefit from the oil’s advantages. Remember that the oil is for external use only and you should always seek medical care for skin diseases and skin problems that do not heal. 1. Facial oil The most popular way is to use tamanu oil as a facial oil – in its pure form or diluted with another oil or cream. As a facial oil, tamanu oil suits: skin with early signs of aging mature skin dry skin inflamed skin acne-prone skin skin with a weak skin barrier 2. Skin booster Since tamanu oil is both potent and active, it can be used to boost your skincare products. Simply mix a few drops of tamanu oil with your facial oil, face cream, or DIY face mask. 3. Lightening oil Use tamanu oil to reduce acne scars and scarring. The oil may also have some effect on uneven skin texture. 4. After shave oil Apply to the skin after shaving to prevent inflamed hair follicles, especially with ingrown hairs. 5. Hair oil As a hair oil, tamanu oil provides moisture and shine to the hair and reduces tangling. 6. Scalp oil Try tamanu oil on dry scalp, dandruff, inflammation, infection, itching, and slow/poor hair growth. Apply tamanu oil to the scalp and massage for 10 minutes. Then wash the oil out with a skin-friendly shampoo. 7. Deodorant Tamanu oil can be applied in the armpit to reduce bacteria that cause unpleasant sweat odor. 8. Foot oil Try applying tamanu oil to your feet for athlete's foot. Review Photo taken by @ecobyanna I have tested Tamanu oil from Fushi for 4 weeks and I am completely sold! It is worth knowing that I have dry and eczema-prone 41-year-old skin. I used the Tamanu oil morning and evening at first, then later only in the evening routine. Regarding the scent, I am among those who love it – such a lovely scent combination of nut and herbs. My dry skin Although tamanu oil is considered a heavy oil, it was absorbed immediately by my dry skin. During the first week, the feeling afterward was a bit dry and tight despite two consecutive applications of the oil. The skin looked almost matte, which is strange for an oil that is supposed to be good at nourishing dry skin. By my second week, tamanu oil had difficulty absorbing. My dry skin was simply saturated, supple, and no longer dry. I then needed much less tamanu oil to moisturize my face. Here we have an excellent example of a vegetable oil that on its own can quickly treat very dry skin. My saggy skin Already after one application in the evening, I noticed in the morning that the skin was firmer. The skin became noticeably more elastic, which I found hard to believe. I therefore stopped using tamanu oil and let my skin rest for a week. When I reintroduced tamanu oil, I got the same result. The skin became less saggy after just one application and gradually looked smoother and firmer. It gave the face a mini lift, which probably only I noticed, but still! I was very impressed, and that doesn’t happen too often, I might add. Small blemishes In my youth, I had a lot of acne and foolishly sunbathed a lot without sun protection. My skin is anything but perfect. Nothing major that bothers me, but there are small blemishes that adorn my face. Tamanu oil had no immediate effect on these skin imperfections, but after 1-2 weeks I noticed that the skin looked clearer and the need for foundation was less. Oh, what a joy! My eczema Conveniently, I was out of balance when I tried tamanu oil. I had very troublesome, flare-up eczema and psoriasis on my body that wouldn’t go away. When I used tamanu oil, it didn’t remove the eczema but soothed it enough to give me peace of mind. Therefore, be patient when applying tamanu oil to problematic skin. It takes time to strengthen the skin barrier. Final note After my 4-week trial period, I tested other products and really missed the tamanu oil. Now it is part of my standard routine as I can't be without it for too long. With regular use of tamanu oil, I feel that the skin becomes saturated with it. Nowadays, just a couple of drops of tamanu oil in the evening along with another facial oil or face cream is enough. If you want to try tamanu oil, make sure you buy one that is pure, organic, cold-pressed, and free from additives. The Tamanu oil from Fushi is a high-quality one, freshly pressed from the season's harvest to preserve all the oil's beneficial properties.
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3 simple tips for detoxifying smelly armpits
Common deodorants, so-called antiperspirants, block the sweat function in the armpits. They also contain several unwanted substances, some very harmful. This can lead to unpleasant-smelling, irritated, and itchy armpits over time. Our best tip is to "detox" the armpits to prepare and switch to a natural and organic deodorant that does not block the sweat function. The best thing about organic deodorants is that they do not block the natural sweat function. They do not contain harmful substances. You avoid questionable chemicals and synthetic fragrances that go straight into the sensitive area under the arms. The ingredient list is visible and you understand what the words mean. When you switch, keep in mind: It takes time for the body to adjust Wrong pH and waste products create the perfect environment for bacteria, which cause unwanted odors. So don’t think, “This deodorant doesn’t work!” after a few days. Give it time; it takes about 3-4 weeks for the body to stabilize. It may smell worse During this transition period (detox period), you may well smell stronger as waste products are released. Sweat itself usually doesn’t smell; it’s when bacteria grow in the sweat that we get that particular odor. 3 detox tips for unpleasant-smelling and irritated armpits 1. Wash with an oil during the transition period We often emphasize how important it is to have the right pH on the skin and hair. This also applies under the armpits. Bacteria thrive in alkaline environments. Almost all soaps and shower gels have an alkaline pH value. Therefore, there are two major advantages to washing with vegetable oil when you stop using conventional deodorants: It does not disturb the pH. The oil dissolves dirt and absorbs odors without drying out or irritating the skin. The oil we think is best for the armpits is coconut oil. It has antibacterial properties and also naturally smells of coconut and is pleasant. Simply wash with the oil and wipe it off with a soft washcloth. Perfect during the transition period. 2. Regulate the acidity of the armpits If it still smells bad despite oil washing, you can lower the alkaline pH by spraying or dabbing with a hydrolate or diluted apple cider vinegar after washing. 3. Use essential oils Essential oils like tea tree, myrrh, or lavender are antiseptic but should be used diluted and with caution. Never undiluted. You can dilute a little of them in water and spray on after washing or use a hydrolate. Hydrolates are a byproduct of essential oil production and are mild. They are antiseptic, pH-balancing, moisturizing, and skin-caring. Switch to a natural and organic deodorant Liquid deodorants If you are using organic deodorant for the first time, it may be easier to use a liquid roll-on or spray deodorant. They keep you dry and pleasantly scented all day. Cream deodorants If you are used to organic deodorant, we recommend a cream deodorant in a jar. They are easy to use and 100% pure in their ingredients. They contain minimal ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, baking soda, sunflower wax, arrowroot, jojoba oil, etc. They come with essential oils or fragrance-free for those sensitive to scents. Take care of yourself and your body!
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Living Libations natural skincare with essential oils
Living Libations was created by beauty philosopher Nadine Artemis. Nadine’s journey in beauty began when she first combined essential oils to recreate Nina Ricci’s L'Air du Temps for a school science competition. These botanical experiences led her on a quest to create organic beauty balms, refreshing elixirs, effective oral care, and perfumed poetry with natural, plant-based ingredients. Nadine opened North America’s first aromatherapy store, Osmosis, in 1994. Living Libations philosophy The word Living means “alive,” and that is what they want to offer: living products. They want to convey that nature’s intelligent plants are meant to honor human health and beauty. Living Libations creations are innovations of exquisite quality that celebrate the vitality of plants. Living Libations product ethics All their essential oils are produced through slow distillation at the lowest possible temperature for excellent quality. They are distilled only from the named plant. They call their essential oils Hi-Fi oils because of the distillers’ faithful and precise adherence to the main plant. They are distilled from either wild or organically grown plants. 2. All their carrier oils are cold-pressed and completely unheated. 3. All products are gluten-free, and those we offer are vegan-friendly. 4. All products are as raw as possible. However, there are no raw essential oils because they are produced by steam distillation of plant material. Who are the products suitable for? Living Libations products suit all skin types and anyone who enjoys potent, active plant-based products in their purest form with lots of fragrance. Who are the products not suitable for? The products contain a lot of essential oils, which is their signature, so most products are not suitable for pregnant women or those sensitive to scents and flavors. Most products are also not suitable for children, but their Seabuckthorn Shampoo is fine for kids. It can also be diluted for use as body wash or bubble bath. There is also an oral care product specifically for children: Wild Child. Living Libations products Face creams for all skin types One of their bestsellers is Rose Glow, a wonderful face cream suitable for all skin types. It balances, harmonizes, and moisturizes. The cream has an elegant rose scent and is rich in nutrients from the plant kingdom such as roses, jojoba oil, aloe vera, shea butter, seabuckthorn oil, orange wax, rose wax, green tea, rosehip, horsetail, neroli, palmarosa, schisandra, geranium, and more. Another popular face cream is Sun Dew Vitamin D Cream with jojoba oil, aloe vera, shea butter, seabuckthorn oil, sandalwood, nettle, marshmallow, frankincense, lavender, turmeric, horsetail, ginger, sweet thyme, and more. It is a restorative, rich day cream that revitalizes, hydrates, and maintains the skin’s radiance. Liquid oral care Their oral care has received a lot of attention as it is a natural and different way to take care of your teeth. You take a dab of toothpaste or a drop of the liquid oral care on your toothbrush or dental floss. You might think a drop is little, but wow, it’s effective. Here is a quick explanation of some of their products. Yogi Serum contains a yogi’s dream with a mix of essential oils of neem, clove, mastic, cardamom, peppermint, cayenne. It’s a real bomb. Only for yogis who like neem. Happy Gum Drops, a bestseller, contains pure essential oils in the form of tea tree, peppermint, cinnamon, rose, clove, oregano, and thyme in a base of seabuckthorn oil. Ozonized olive oil mixed with seabuckthorn oil, oregano, cinnamon, rose, sweet thyme, clove, tea tree, and peppermint is contained in a gum gel for oral care. You apply a small dab on a dry toothbrush and brush. Ozonized olive oil moisturizes the mouth while helping to remove plaque. Toothpaste in small jars Contains only six ingredients: coconut oil, neem oil, cinnamon, saponified olive oil, baking soda, and kaolin clay. Incense with coconut oil, baking soda, various essential oils of the highest quality, saponified olive oil, and kaolin clay. Triple + Mint contains, among other things, coconut oil, saponified olive oil, baking soda, calcium phosphate, and three different types of mint. All three are rich in top-quality essential oils that counteract plaque and provide fresh breath. They offer effective cleaning, lots of freshness, and strong flavor. Yes, they are very potent. Pure and natural hair care Here we find the popular Seabuckthorn shampoo with coconut protein, bladderwrack, orange wax, yucca root (rich in saponins – hence the lather), jojoba oil, and seabuckthorn as a base. Then many herbs are added. Spirulina hair products True Blue are beautifully blue-green due to both the spirulina but especially Blue Tansy essential oil, which gives a heavenly scent. Spirulina is a protein-rich algae used to increase hair volume and remove dandruff. Popular Best Skin Ever Living Libations Best Skin Ever products are some of their flagships. They are an all-in-one oil-based cleanser for both face and body. Washing the face with pure plant oils is an ancient Ayurvedic method. Living Libations created Best Skin Evers to provide a simple, natural cleansing aid for radiant, healthy skin without harmful additives. Activating facial serums Dew Dab is a serum to reduce the visibility of scars, spots, and pigmentation on your skin. As the name suggests, you “dab” a little on. The serum is designed to reduce and remove pimples and blemishes. We say hello to Living Libations and invite you to try their life-giving products!
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Dietary supplements for hair, skin, and nails - Complete guide
The skin is one of our largest organs, and just like all other organs in our body, our skin also needs nutrition to function and feel good. The skin is one of the first things we see, and having skin problems can cause significant distress for some. But there are a few nutrients that are especially important when we want radiant and healthy skin. Skin, hair, and nails all have similar structures and largely need the same nutrients. Let's take a look at the most important micronutrients. If you want to dive deeper into the individual nutrients, you can read more at Morotsliv's micronutrient guide. Fat-soluble vitamins Vitamin A Necessary for healthy skin and mucous membranes and used therapeutically for eczema, psoriasis, dry skin, and alopecia (hair loss). You can both take it as a supplement and add it to your skincare routine. Retinol in skincare products affects fine lines, pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores, and has anti-aging effects. Vitamin E Prevents scarring, protects cell membranes, and increases oxygen supply to the skin. Vitamin E can be used topically on scars, wounds, and burns for faster and better healing. It is also used therapeutically for acne, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, dry skin, and eczema. Vitamin K Strengthens the skin barrier and supports collagen and elastin formation. Beneficial effects of vitamin K have been noted in connection with bruises, skin problems, and cell damage associated with aging. Water-soluble vitamins B-complex Contains large doses of B vitamins essential for many cellular functions. Vitamin B2 Involved in growth, repair, and healing of tissue and mucous membranes. B2 is used therapeutically for cold sores, cracks at the corners of the mouth, acne, and rosacea. Vitamin B3 Used therapeutically for skin problems, acne, and hair loss. It is effective against acne and hyperpigmentation and strengthens the skin barrier. A high niacin intake can cause temporary skin flushing, so-called “flushes.” Vitamin B5 Used therapeutically for contact eczema, wound healing, and burns. Hair loss can also be helped with B5. Vitamin B6 Used therapeutically for seborrheic dermatitis, acne, skin allergic reactions, and hives. B6 is also good for chapped lips. Folate Plays a very important role in cell renewal and maintaining healthy hair and skin. Folate prevents premature gray hair and protects against cold sores. Vitamin B12 Is important for cell division. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also be associated with early graying hair and brown discoloration of the skin around smaller joints. B12 is used for skin issues such as acne, seborrhea, vitiligo, warts, psoriasis, eczema, hives, shingles, bleeding gums, as well as pale lips, tongue, and gums. PABA Symptoms of PABA deficiency include graying hair, vitiligo, pigment loss, eczema, sunburn, dry skin, and wrinkles. PABA prevents burns caused by excessive sun exposure, reduces sunburn pain, and prevents the development of gray hair. Vitamin C Is essential for collagen formation, which is necessary to bind connective tissue cells. Vitamin C is needed for wound healing, scar tissue formation, and regenerates all connective tissue. Biotin Calms eczema and flaky skin and helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails. Deficiency symptoms include graying hair, hair loss, brittle nails, and candida fungus. Holistic Mega B Methylated Minerals Zinc The most common symptom of zinc deficiency is skin changes such as acne, eczema, boils, rosacea, skin cracks, psoriasis, impaired wound healing, hair loss, white spots on finger and toenails, and cracked nails. Mary Ruth's Liposomal Zinc is a dietary supplement containing zinc encapsulated in liposomes. This gives the product high bioavailability. MaryRuth's Liposomal Zinc Dietary Supplements Can protect the body from aging and supports elastin in the skin. Selenium can also help with skin inflammation in acne. Silica Builds keratin and collagen, and silica deficiency in the skin reduces elasticity. Silica strengthens nails, hair, and skin. Therapeutically, silica is used for lifeless and brittle hair, skin problems, and fragile nails. Sulfur Is necessary for healthy hair, skin, and nails and contributes to a healthy glow in the skin and hair. Sulfur is an important component in the formation of collagen, elastin, cartilage, and keratin needed especially for skin, hair, and nails to keep them strong and elastic. Sulfur, silica, cysteine, biotin, and B5 have synergistic effects for skin, hair, and nails. OptiMSM® which is distilled and of fine quality. Distilled OptiMSM in capsules Copper Is necessary for the proper function of key substances lysyl oxidase and elastin, which give connective tissue and collagen their elasticity. Visible blood vessels can indicate deficiency. Excess copper, however, can cause prematurely aged skin. Iron Is best known for its oxygen-binding ability. Deficiency can cause chronic skin infections, flat, brittle, spoon-shaped, and thin nails as well as pale and grayish skin and lips. Heme iron is easier to absorb and is found in liver, kidney, and eggs. Magnesium Is essential for many body functions and acts as a natural antihistamine. Visible red blood vessels can be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Fatty Acids Omega 3 stimulates skin cell renewal, counteracts inflammation which is a common problem with acne and psoriasis, fights dryness and moisturizes the skin, nourishes brittle and dry hair, and protects against UV radiation. Omega-3 is a 100% natural, plant-based, and concentrated source of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, designed to give you the benefits of natural Omega-3 directly from algae. This product suits everyone, as it is guaranteed free from environmental toxins. GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) belongs to the omega-6 fatty acid group that improves hair, skin, and nails. Deficiency can cause atopic skin reactions, eczema, and acne. Opti3 Complete Omega 3 Amino Acids Hair loss can be due to a deficiency of the amino acid methionine, and the main ingredient in hair and nails is keratin, which is a strong fibrous protein. Collagen and elastin provide skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles. Sunwarrior offers with its “Collagen Building Protein Peptides” a plant-based solution to boost the body’s inherent collagen production with organic plant-based protein and protein peptides. Plant-based amino acids and peptides are collagen precursors, which are nutrients your body efficiently converts into collagen. Helhetshälsa CollagenBoost Coenzyme Q10 An antioxidant with specific protective effects on the heart muscle, with anti-inflammatory properties, and it strengthens and protects the skin against, for example, UV radiation. Our own production decreases as we age. It can also be added to skincare. Holistic Q10 contains genuine natural Japanese fermented Q10/Ubiquinone. It also contains vitamin C. Holistic Q10 Combination Supplements Instead of taking many individual supplements, you can choose a combination supplement that has assembled various important nutrients to provide better effects on skin, hair, and nails. It’s also easier on the wallet. Holistic Hair Skin Nails A supplement with silica from bamboo extract, vegetarian hyaluronic acid from Haplex plus®, soluble keratin from sheep’s wool, vitamins, and minerals. Vitamin C in the supplement contributes to normal collagen formation, while zinc, selenium, and biotin help maintain normal hair. Selenium and zinc help maintain normal nails. Vitamin A, niacin, riboflavin, and iodine help maintain normal skin. Holistic Hair Skin Nails Helhetshälsa’s Hair, Skin & Nails A vegan-friendly supplement with MSM, hyaluronic acid, bamboo silica, vitamins, and minerals for more beautiful hair, skin, and nails. The hyaluronic acid Haplex®Plus increases elasticity and hydrates the skin. Silica improves skin elasticity and adds shine to hair and nails. Helhetshälsa Hair, Skin & Nails Alpha Plus Hair Nutrition Formulated for hair, skin, and nails. Contains carefully selected B vitamins combined with biotin, zinc, vitamin C, bamboo extract (silica), and the mineral-rich seaweed kelp. Alpha Plus Hair Nutrition Mary Ruth’s Hair, Skin & Nails Biotin Gummies Supports hair, skin, and nails with a blend of biotin, methylated folate, and B12, as well as zinc and Fo-Ti extract. All Mary Ruth’s products are vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and free from unnecessary additives. Mary Ruth’s Hair, Skin & Nails Biotin Gummies Herbs There are also mineral-rich supplements with herbs that help keep the skin healthy and beautiful. Hair, Skin & Nail Support from Gaia Herbs Contains extracts from horsetail, nettle, amla fruit, and burdock, among others. This mineral-rich herbal extract effectively supports hair and skin health. Gaia Herbs tests all ingredients for pesticides, microbes, and heavy metals. The patented Liquid Phyto-Caps® technology ensures optimal absorption in the body. You will find the full range of supplements suitable for skin, hair, and nails. Gaia Herbs Hair, Skin & Nail Support
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Natural skincare products from 100% Pure
There is something truly special about 100% Pure. Their products are reviewed in countless beauty blogs and YouTube videos worldwide. We are also completely sold on their products. We immediately fell for 100% Pure’s impressive ingredient lists. These are truly pure products, living up to their name. They stand out with unusual ingredients like acai, shiitake, sake, mulberry, apricot, apple, yuzu, licorice, cocoa, tomato, etc. Nothing strange in itself, all edible ingredients, but not something you usually see in beauty products. Most products are water-free. Instead, they use, for example, plant hydrosols or aloe vera juice. 100% Pure consists of many organic ingredients and is 99% vegan-friendly; some products contain honey. Because of their fine and well-thought-out content without harmful and cheap ingredients, the products are a bit more expensive. Here you can read Anna’s review of 100% Pure’s Multi-vitamin night serum. How does 100% Pure define natural products? 100% Pure says this about natural content: “An ingredient or formula consisting of plant, mineral, and/or sea vegetation that undergoes chemical changes due to biological processes such as fermentation, distillation, and cold processing.” 100% Pure delivers results 100% Pure offers not only natural products but also delivers great results. You can feel that their serums, creams, oils, primers, toners, and masks make a difference and affect the skin deeply. That’s why their products are so talked about and loved. Their hair products are also very popular. 100% Pure’s makeup, which is also very popular, is unique because it is colored with plant and fruit pigments. So instead of toxic FD & C colors, they achieve incredibly modern shades with beets, fruits, and berries. Screaming orange or truly red lipstick with 100% natural plant pigments—how cool is that? The challenge Their range is huge, and they constantly release new products. The only downside is that it’s hard to order goods. This is because their stock constantly runs out, and it takes time before they can produce more. When they write “Hurry up! only 500 left,” they mean it. We do our best to restock and try to get hold of the popular products but don’t always succeed. What do you wish for? Is there any 100% Pure product you have tried, love, and miss in our range? Please comment and tell us, and we will keep it in mind next time we order.
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Nourishing hair mask for dry hair with natural oils
It's super easy to make your own warm hair mask, and it's very nourishing for the hair as well as pleasant. 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 marula and moringa oils, the Japanese camellia oil, the orange carrot oil, and the amazing black cumin oil. All of these are perfect for giving your hair a nourishing treatment. Simply warm your chosen oils on low heat. If you want to pamper your beloved hair with even more luxury, you can add herbs, hydrosols, and/or essential oils. Which herbs can I use? To strengthen the hair, you can use chamomile, nettle, or horsetail. To cleanse the hair, for example with scalp issues, you can use rosemary, parsley, sage, or witch hazel. To stimulate hair growth, you can use peppermint, sage, chamomile, or ginger. Herbs suitable for most people, even sensitive scalps, include calendula, lavender, and dried rose petals. How do I do it? 1. Add 3 tablespoons of your chosen oil to a saucepan. You can choose one type of oil or make a blend of three or more different oils. Example 1: 1 tbsp jojoba, 1 tbsp coconut, and 1 tbsp castor oil. Example 2: 1 tbsp argan, 1 tbsp almond, and 1 tbsp avocado oil. Example 3: 1 tbsp camellia, 1 tbsp argan, 1 tbsp jojoba oil. Example 4: The oils above plus one of these: 1 tsp rosehip oil – said to reduce hair loss and moisturize. 1 tsp carrot oil – said to promote hair growth. Note: not for bleached hair! 1 tsp black cumin oil – said to reduce hair loss and moisturize. 1 tsp neem oil – good for combating dandruff/itchiness. 2. Pour the oils into a saucepan and heat on low, optionally adding 1 tbsp of your chosen herbs or a hydrosol*. Let this infuse for about 30 minutes on very low heat, stirring often. *Hydrosols or herbal waters are mild products that can be used for many purposes. They are a byproduct from the production of essential oils. 3. Then strain the oil into a small glass container using, for example, a coffee filter or a fine mesh strainer. 4. After that (optional), you can add essential oils such as 3-5 drops of rosemary, lavender, tea tree, or peppermint. Essential oils have different qualities and can, for example, help soothe an itchy scalp. They also have very potent, wonderful scents. 5. Apply the finished oil blend to your hair (should not be too hot), both on the scalp and all the way to the ends. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes—take the opportunity to rest, meditate, or just look out the window. 6. Then wash your hair with a mild, natural shampoo and conditioner. 7. You can store your oil for up to three months in a tightly sealed glass bottle or jar.
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Natural & Organic Castile Soap - One Soap for Everything
Here you have a multifunctional product that works as hand soap, shower gel, shaving soap, and shampoo but also handles dishes, laundry, and cleaning. Castile soap is one product for everything! If you are going on vacation with camping, tent, bike, caravan, or cabin, this is the perfect multi-product. What does Castile mean? The word Castile is a reference to La Castilla – a region in central Spain that is historically significant in the history of soap making. In America, Castile means a soap made with olive oil, usually a liquid soap of olive oil and coconut oil. What is Castile soap made of? Dr Bronner’s mild liquid Castile soaps are based on organic coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, and hemp oil. Vermont Soap’s mild liquid Castile soaps are based on organic saponified coconut oil, jojoba oil, and olive oil. To make a good soap, only a few natural ingredients are needed, no complex chemical mixtures. Problems in mass-produced soap making can be low-quality base ingredients, alcohol, synthetic colors and fragrances, and preservatives. The soap then lacks moisture fundamentally and tends to have alkali residues left, which will irritate the skin. Oil and alkali must be balanced to make the perfect soap, as we mentioned earlier. Problems arise when alkali and oil do not chemically combine; alkali salts remain in the product. Excess alkali creates a soap that is too strong and dries out the skin. So why doesn’t everyone make natural Castile soap? It’s about money. Mass production costs less, takes less time, and yields greater profit. Good, organic, and sustainable ingredients for a less drying soap cost more. Why choose Castile soap? Fantastic liquid soaps made completely without chemicals (no surfactants, perfumes, or preservatives) yet they still lather a lot. They are vegan-friendly. No hidden animal ingredients, which is common in conventional soap. Great for washing the whole body and hands as they are so mild. Suitable for all ages and all skin types. Excellent for shaving. Also suitable as shampoo for oily hair. You can use them full strength or dilute up to 50% with water. They are very economical. All fragrance comes from genuine essential oils (also available fragrance-free). They smell delightful. Also suitable for cleaning & dishwashing. Castile soap for cleaning & dishwashing Here are some general recommendations for diluting the soap for cleaning: For floors, walls, and car washing: Add about 0.5 – 1 dl liquid soap to a bucket of warm water. Clean as usual and let dry. Laundry: Use about 0.5-0.8 dl per load – a bit more for hard water. Liquid soap can be neutralized by detergent residues in the machine, so use enough – you may need to use a little extra the first time. Perfect for hand washing most silk fabrics, delicate fabrics, and wool. For stain removal: Wet the surface and apply soap. Work the soap into the material from several directions and let it sit for a while. Wet the stain with a cloth or towel and rinse. General cleaning: Fill a clean spray bottle with warm water, add 5% concentrate, spray and wipe. Suitable for all water-safe surfaces. Safe and non-toxic for people, plants, and pets. Bathroom cleaning: Use the soap on a sponge on tiles or porcelain, rinse. The soap can also be used to clean makeup brushes. Feel free to read Morotsliv’s blog here about 10 ways to use the soap! About the companies Vermont Soap is a family-owned company from Vermont, USA, whose vision is to make the soap industry healthier and more sustainable. Their perhaps most important contribution to the environment is that they only use natural base ingredients from sustainable sources in all their products. A consistent theme in their products is simplicity. Their products are certified according to the USDA organic food standard (USDA Organic) from Vermont Organic Farmers (VOF). Dr Bronner’s uses organic and natural ingredients and buys Fairtrade and ethically sustainably harvested raw materials from around the world for fair prices, wages, and conditions for local farmers. The packaging is made from 100% recycled material. What do you use your Castile soap for? Share and inspire others!
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11 tips for more beautiful skin with the right diet and supplements
We receive many questions about skin and skin problems. To tackle skin issues, it’s important to identify the cause. It’s not enough to just relieve symptoms on the surface of the skin. Common symptoms can include acne, eczema, rosacea, redness, inflammation, dry skin, or premature aging. These symptoms may indicate an imbalance in the body that needs adjustment. To achieve younger, firmer, clearer, and radiant skin, there are things you can add to your lifestyle. 4 things to consider for younger skin 1. How is your gut feeling? In nutritional medicine, skin health is often linked to gut health. 2. How do you manage stress? Stress affects overall health, including digestion and the skin. 3. What do you eat daily? Most of us need to review our dietary choices to keep our skin happy. That doesn’t mean you have to be super strict; it’s the daily, consistent choices that matter most. 4. Do you use natural skincare without harmful ingredients? For the healthiest skin possible, we need to minimize harmful additives. 7 foods, supplements, and superfoods that support healthy skin 1. Healthy gut bacteria …because health starts in the gut! We get many good gut bacteria from the right diet and fermented foods like sauerkraut, miso soup, tempeh, kefir, and some from yogurt. But that’s not always enough; if you have a severe imbalance or have taken antibiotics for a long time, it’s recommended to take a probiotic supplement (lactic acid bacteria), which can be one of the most important supplements you can choose. 2. Omega fatty acids Enjoy healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, algae oil, avocado oil, hemp oil, flaxseed oil, borage oil, sea buckthorn oil, black cumin oil, and other oils you like daily. Omega-3 fatty acids can counteract red, dry, or itchy skin. Omega-3 helps improve the skin’s barrier function and inflammation, which is a common problem with acne and psoriasis. Many swear that Omega 3 helps with eczema, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. 3. B vitamins We’ve all probably heard that B vitamins are good for both skin and hair. AFA blue-green algae and spirulina are rich in B vitamins, as are spinach, parsley, peas, broccoli, asparagus, avocado, legumes, yogurt, eggs, and shellfish. You can also take a B-complex supplement. Several B vitamins are used therapeutically for various skin issues, which you can read more about in Cecilia's (Morotsliv) blog here. 4. Zinc Zinc is required for the production of collagen, 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). Eat zinc-rich foods like pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame seeds, various nuts, chickpeas, kidney beans, cocoa powder, spinach, and spirulina. Or you can take zinc supplements. Remember: Eczema and acne can be caused by a deficiency of zinc and B vitamins in the body. 5. Sulfur Sulfur gives the skin radiance and glow. Many use sulfur to combat acne. Where do we find sulfur? In lovely greens like arugula, kale, watercress, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, and also in maca. Or you can take a sulfur supplement like MSM, often called the beauty mineral. MSM is not sulfur itself, but an organic compound that contains sulfur. It is the same sulfur naturally found in the body and in vegetables. MSM is said to support healthy bones and promote skin, hair, and nails. 6. Silica Silica is a crucial mineral that keeps the skin happy. Silica-rich foods include green beans, nettles, oats, millet, artichokes, asparagus, beets, romaine lettuce, baby spinach, herbs like horsetail, and mineral water. We can also take mineral supplements or mineral drops. Mineral drops contain both silica and sulfur. Other mineral-rich products are AFA algae, spirulina, and seaweed. 7. Antioxidants Everyone has probably heard that antioxidants mean "anti-aging" and that they counteract skin aging. Important antioxidants include carotenoids, Q10, resveratrol, astaxanthin, vitamins E and C. How do you get a lot of antioxidants? We can eat carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, cabbage, and dandelion leaves for vitamin A. Yellow bell pepper, kale, papaya, pineapple, berries, acai, camu camu, kiwi, goji berries, and broccoli for vitamin C. Hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, avocado, and vegetable oils for vitamin E. Yes, choose all the colorful ones! We can also get these nutrients through supplements to consume larger amounts. For example, astaxanthin is found in the amazing Biosuperfood. Drinks that support healthy skin Feel free to drink organic green tea, horsetail 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's important to choose a high-quality organic green tea without sugar. And don't forget, clean water is also very important for the skin's hydration and detox!
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7 natural treatments for lice with coconut oil & essential oils
A tedious thing for parents when school starts is lice outbreaks. Here we give 7 tips on what you can consider and do. The more thorough you are in treating a lice outbreak, the less likely it is to become a recurring problem. 1. Treatment and combing with oil Rub the entire hair thoroughly with an oil such as coconut oil, neem oil, and/or sesame oil. See recipe tips further down. Note, neem does not smell good but is very effective. The oils suffocate the lice. Comb through the hair and cover the head with a disposable shower cap or plastic wrap and leave it on for at least 2-4 hours or overnight. Discard the shower cap. You can then use hair clips to divide the hair into manageable sections to comb through the hair thoroughly with a lice comb. Rinse the comb often under very hot water while you work. When you have combed out all the hair, shampoo and rinse the hair twice in a row. This treatment is recommended to be done every day for a week. 2. More combing After the treatment, it is important to comb the hair every day for another week. Yes, you need to comb the hair every day for 14 days after a lice outbreak. Wet the entire hair and use a little conditioner if you want. Comb through the hair carefully with a fine-toothed nit comb from the scalp to the tips. NOTE! Wash the towels you use. 3. Lice-killing essential oils Specific essential oils can have a toxic effect on lice and lice eggs. Some of the top choices of essential oils against lice are tea tree, ylang ylang, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, lemongrass, and anise. You can combine these essential oils with, for example, coconut oil for a natural treatment and suffocation of lice. DIY Treatment Recipe: Ingredients: 2 tbsp coconut oil 1 tbsp neem oil 1 tsp essential oils – ylang ylang, tea tree, lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus, or a blend of them. 5 dl apple cider vinegar 3 dl water How do you do it? Apply the oil blend all over the scalp, massage it in thoroughly, and run it through the ends. Comb through the hair with a fine-toothed lice comb. Cover the head with a disposable shower cap or plastic wrap and leave on for at least 2-4 hours or overnight. Carefully remove the shower cap and discard. Comb through the hair with a lice comb before washing and rinse thoroughly, twice. While the hair is still wet, mix 5 dl apple cider vinegar and 3 dl water in a spray bottle. Saturate the hair and spray half the bottle on the scalp and hair. Pour the remaining mixture over the hair and massage in gently. Rinse thoroughly and comb the hair once more. You can now optionally follow up with a light application of coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner. Let it work in the hair until the next wash. Wash all towels immediately. 4. Disinfect brushes and combs Clean all combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water – at least 65 °C. Also wash all hats, scarves, pillowcases, and stuffed animals in very hot water and then put them in the dryer for at least 15 minutes. Wash all items that have contact with hair, such as hair clips, hair ties, headbands, etc. Put all non-washable items that may have come into contact with lice in an airtight plastic bag for a few days. 5. Get the vacuum cleaner & wash bedding You should give all carpets and furniture in your home a good and thorough vacuuming. It is also important to avoid lying on bedding, pillows, and even carpets that have been used by someone with lice in the last 48 hours. Wash all bedding! 6. Talk to the children Make sure your children understand to avoid head-to-head contact. This applies both on the playground and when playing at home. Also explain that they should avoid sharing hair accessories, hats, combs, or brushes. Tie long hair back during a lice outbreak at school or daycare. 7. Prevent lice in the future Repeat the process with the oil and essential oils every five to ten days for a couple of weeks. This helps ensure you really eliminate all lice and eggs. Feel free to use coconut oil as an overnight hair mask, then wash the hair in the morning. Feel free to use coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner. Since coconut oil both repels and kills lice, you can use it as a leave-in conditioner. Spray the hair with water mixed with essential oils like tea tree or lavender every morning. What home remedies do you have for children with lice? Share in a comment so we can all be lice-free!
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