Health Blog
Health Blog
Dry skin - causes and natural solutions for healthy skin
Dry skin problems are common, and the condition of the skin can also vary with the seasons. Whether you have dry skin all year round or only right now, we have the solution to help you get your dry skin under control. 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 Turn down the heat Adapt your skincare routine* Cleanser for dry skin* Exfoliate away dead skin cells* Face mask for dry skin* Moisturize every day* Facial waters and toners for dry skin* Serum for dry skin* Face 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 (oil). But you must distinguish between dry and dehydrated skin, as they are two completely different things. When the skin lacks water, it becomes dehydrated. The epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) lacks moisture and is dehydrated. Read more about dehydrated skin and how to distinguish between dehydrated and dry skin. Common signs of dry skin include: dry, white flakes of skin. flaky skin. rough skin. irritated and red skin. a tendency toward skin problems such as eczema, itching, psoriasis, and dermatitis. a tight feeling, especially after showering, bathing, or swimming. both small, superficial cracks and larger, deeper cracks in the skin 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 helpful to know the causes of the problem. Age Sebum production is controlled by androgens (sex hormones). Generally speaking, children have low sebum production, which then increases during puberty and may begin to decrease as early as their 20s. Men's sebum production does not decrease significantly until around the age of 70-80. For women, sebum production decreases fairly quickly from around the age of 40 or when menopause begins. So it is absolutely right to apply extra moisturizer to children's and adults' skin, as needs change throughout life. Weather and heat Although the sun and warm weather can dry out the skin, it is still driest in winter: when the temperature and humidity drop significantly. when it is exposed to major temperature fluctuations. when indoor humidity becomes particularly low, for example when the stove, radiator, or oven is on. when the skin is exposed to heat combined with water, such as during hot showers or baths. Moisture from the outermost layer of the skin cannot remain there and evaporates. The skin becomes dry on the surface. Skin that is already dry may start to flake, become red, and itch. In that case, the skin needs both fat and moisture. Water and soap Water itself is drying, and combined with overly harsh soaps and cleansers, it quickly makes the skin 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 receive extra fats (through creams or oils), the outer, drier layer of skin will be moisturized with oils from deeper skin layers. You could say that the sebum is “taken and moved” to the skin’s surface, where it dries out from within. Incorrect skincare products It is not only soap and water that can dry out the skin. Coarse cloths, makeup remover cloths, and cleansing brushes (made of fiber bristles) are examples of things that create a lot of friction against the skin and wipe away too much of its protective oil. Detox masks and clay masks can be too absorbent and drying for winter skin. They are better suited to oily skin. Trying to remove dry skin flakes and flaky skin with a scrub or exfoliant is a good idea. However, it can easily become too much, weakening the skin barrier and making it thin, sensitive, and eventually dry. It is extremely important to adapt your skincare routine to the season. Fear of acne or oily skin from overly rich creams and oils means that the skin does not get the extra fat it needs in winter. In the end, this can result in both acne and dry skin. Fear of using plant-based oils leads many people to instead choose creams and oils based on petroleum-based oils. It may initially feel incredibly softening, while in the long run it acts like a lid that prevents the skin from absorbing both moisture and fat, drying it out from within. Learn more about the difference between plant-based and petroleum-based oils. Another misconception is that creams make the skin dependent. Refusing to moisturize dry skin when its need for fat and hydration is greatest only makes it even drier. In the worst case, the skin may crack. Petroleum oils prevent the skin from absorbing fat and moisture. This makes the skin even drier and therefore creates an even greater need for oiling. This can feel as though the skin becomes “dependent on” products. In reality, the skin becomes even drier from using the wrong kinds of products. Unbalanced diet Besides the effects of the weather, an unbalanced diet is the most common underlying cause of dry skin. In general, diuretic foods can make the skin dry: Alcohol and coffee. Salty food. Food without healthy fats. Junk food, sugar and carbohydrates can indirectly dry out the skin by negatively affecting collagen production in the skin. This can lead to more wrinkles, dull and dehydrated skin. How to get rid of dry skin Getting rid of dry skin is relatively easy. You need to add more oils to your skin and minimize things that dry it out. Now let’s go through step by step what helps against dry skin. Turn down the heat Proper warmth can feel wonderful sometimes. However, try to protect your skin by: turn down the heat slightly and snuggle up in warm socks and a sweater instead. avoid long, hot showers and baths. use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity. Adapt your skincare routine Natural, organic and toxin-free skincare products are preferable if you want to get rid of dry skin. Here’s how to best adapt your skincare routine when you want to treat dry skin. Cleansing for dry skin When it comes to daily cleansing: Switch to a cleanser that does not lather and does not leave your skin feeling tight afterward. 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 an oil such as almond oil. This reduces contact with water while deeply cleansing the skin. Be sure to wipe off all the cleansing oil with a damp cloth. We also offer ready-made oils for removing makeup and dirt. Keep in mind that deep-cleansing masks such as clay masks, detox masks and similar products can be too drying for already dry skin. Here’s what you can do if you have blemished and dry skin: Use clay masks and purifying masks only on the T-zone. Mix a couple of drops of facial oil into your face mask to make it more nourishing. Face masks containing clays tend to dry quickly, causing them to “draw out” moisture and oils from the skin. Always keep the mask moist with a toner or facial mist. You can also place a warm, damp cloth over your face while the mask is working. Try a cleansing mask that is not drying, such as a rose quartz face mask. Exfoliate away dead skin cells Exfoliate or scrub regularly, but not excessively, to make it easier for the skin to absorb nourishment from your skincare products. Follow your product's instructions and do not treat the skin more often than indicated. 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. Most organic face masks provide the skin with plenty of nourishment. Rehydrate every day Toner for dry skin A hydrating toner is a must for dehydrated skin. For dry skin, toner is not as important. There are still benefits to using toner on dry skin: if you have dry and dehydrated skin. if your skin dries out quickly between the steps in your skincare routine. When the skin is dry, it has difficulty absorbing products, and they mostly sit on the surface. In that case, a toner is perfect to use before applying serum, cream, and oil so that the products are absorbed more effectively. Tips for 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 Serum for dry skin Make sure to use a serum, as it penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin. Choose a more nourishing serum that provides both moisture and oils. Tips for serums that help with dry skin: - i+m Demanding Skin Serum Repair Avocado Hyaluron - i+m Naturkosmetik Freistil Hyaluronic Serum - i+m Naturkosmetik Lifting Boost Immortelle Hyaluron - Odylique Superfruit Concentrate Facial cream for dry skin Use a richer, nourishing facial cream that can moisturize dry skin and keep it soft for a long time. If your skin feels tight or looks dry after your facial cream has absorbed, you need a richer cream or should 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 a lighter facial lotion to those areas. This helps retain moisture in the skin and prevents it from evaporating. A facial cream that really quenches dry skin is Evolve Daily Renew Facial Cream. If you would like to use a night cream in the evening, we recommend these for dry skin: 100% Pure Multi-vitamin + Antioxidants Ultra Riché PM Treatment and Evolve Nigthly 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 is especially important that your skin is moisturized (and clean) when you apply facial oil. This allows the oil to sink into the skin instead of simply sitting on top. Tips for 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 within with the right diet is an effective way to get rid of dry skin. It is important that your diet is varied and balanced. Sometimes it can be helpful to keep a diary of what you eat. Then you can easily see if your diet is one-sided. It is also wise to note how much you eat of everything. Is your plate 10% vegetables or 90%? When your skin is dry, you need to consume more healthy fats. Try to: increase your intake of healthy fatty acids. An easy way is to drizzle extra virgin olive oil over your plate. eat more omega-3-rich foods such as avocado, seeds, nuts, fish, and shellfish. take omega-3 supplements. The Swedish Medical Products Agency recommends that we should consume 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’s when your hair can’t retain moisture or when your scalp doesn’t produce enough oil to moisturize your hair. Find out if you have dry hair Do a simple test to find out how dry your hair is. Take a freshly washed, wet strand of hair. Wrap it around your fingers (like dental floss) and start pulling. It should stretch to about one-third of its original length. Elastic = Good moisture balance: if it stretches and returns to its original length Stretchy = 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 Washing your hair with shampoo every day can really dry it out. Try to reduce the number of washes per week and always use conditioner after shampooing. 2. Give your hair a break from heat Put heat styling with curling irons and hair dryers on hold so your hair can recover. Heat prevents your hair from retaining moisture, leaving it rough, flyaway, and dull. Always use heat protectant when you have to heat-style your hair. Protect your hair from strong summer sun with a hat or scarf. If you have long hair, nourish it while also protecting it from the sun’s heat with hair oil. Hair oil is best applied to damp hair. Use a hair mask regularly to restore your hair’s moisture balance. Wash your hair with lukewarm or cold water. 3. Give your hair extra care in a dry environment or dry climate Restore moisture to your hair if you spend a lot of time at the computer, in dry indoor air, or in a dry climate. A humidifier in your home office moisturizes both your skin and hair. Spray moisturizing hair mist on your hair once or more throughout the day. Use leave-in conditioner spray if your hair is very dry. 4. Cut down on the number of products Using lots of styling products means you need to shampoo your hair every day, which can both damage and dry it out. Treating your hair with, for example, chemical-based hair dye also worsens its quality. Use natural hair products and stop using hair products that contain silicones and other petroleum-based substances to avoid buildup on your hair. Rinse your hair regularly to remove buildup that prevents moisture from being absorbed. Switch to natural styling products that are easier to wash out. Try organic hair dye that strengthens your hair. 5. Protect your hair from air pollution and swimming in the sea or pool Wear a swimming cap or thoroughly wet your hair with clean water so it’s saturated before swimming in the sea or pool. Rinse your hair from time to time to remove air pollutants and chemical residue. 6. Brush your hair every day Brushing your hair stimulates the scalp and distributes oils from the scalp through the lengths. Choose a good hairbrush that can detangle your hair gently without causing damage. Use products that leave your hair shiny and healthy Here are our best tips for natural and organic hair care products for dry hair. Shampoo that strengthens your hair and adds shine Dr Sannas Strengthening Shampoo is one that works incredibly well for all types of dry hair. This plant-based shampoo contains, among other things, horsetail, oats, and abyssinian oil, which work together to strengthen and moisturize your hair and bring dull hair back to life. Restore your shine with a hair rinse Chemicals, limescale, and air pollution are examples of things that can cling stubbornly to your hair and weigh it down. Bring back your hair’s softness and radiance by rinsing away buildup with a vinegar rinse. Rinse your hair regularly (preferably after shampooing) for a while to dissolve all layers of residue. Conditioner that detangles and moisturizes your hair Always use conditioner after shampooing if you have dry hair. Moisturizing conditioner restores your hair’s moisture balance and brings out its natural shine. It restores the pH of your hair and scalp while leaving your hair smoother. The conditioner is silicone-free and works well with the conditioner-only method. Boost moisture throughout the day For an extra moisture boost during the day, Anita Grant’s Aloe Rose Oil Free Hair Spritz is a great choice. It’s oil-free and provides plenty of moisture to your hair thanks to aloe vera and moisture-binding glycerin. Organic MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) also strengthens the hair structure. If you like to spray often without holding back, organic rose water is perfect. Loelle’s rose water is an excellent moisturizer for both skin and hair, and it smells lovely too! Conditioning spray is a perfect alternative to conditioner if you have fine hair that gets flat easily. It’s also recommended for thick, 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 help prevent flyaway hair and split ends. It repairs and deeply nourishes your hair. Both long and short hair regain their shine, become stronger, and fall naturally. Lock in your hair’s moisture with hair oil Hair that cannot retain moisture quickly becomes dry again. Using hair oil creates a barrier that locks moisture into 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, thick hair. Apply a couple of drops to dry or damp mid-lengths and ends to lock in moisture and add extra shine. Apply before showering to help prevent dryness. Mix a couple of drops into your conditioner for extra care. Khadi Hair Oil Rose Repair is a fantastic remedy for dry hair. It leaves your hair silky and fragrant for a long time. Khadi’s other hair oils are also highly beneficial. Protect and nourish your hair with the right kind of hair styling Use hair styling products that shape your hair while also protecting and nourishing it. They should be easy to wash out so they don’t weigh your hair down. All our organic and natural hair styling products are gentle on your hair. We wish you the best of luck with your hair. Don’t hesitate to ask us!
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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 ever wondered why all magnesium supplements have different names in the ingredient list and which type of magnesium you might need? In this article, we list different forms of magnesium and what they may contribute. 1. Magnesium glycinate Magnesium glycinate may 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 to the cells and supports the body during exhaustion and fatigue. 3. Magnesium citrate Magnesium citrate is magnesium bound to 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, nervous, and digestive systems. This type is well absorbed by the body and is gentle on the digestive system. 5. Magnesium malate The popular type magnesium malate is made from magnesium and malic acid. This type improves the body's energy levels and reduces muscle pain. This is a good type of magnesium 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, and is mentioned primarily in connection with heart health. 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 the mitochondria. 8. Liposomal Magnesium Liposomal Magnesium contains magnesium enclosed in liposomes. Liposomes are “fat bubbles” that transport the magnesium directly to the cells, and the form is therefore considered to have high bioavailability. Liposomal form can be beneficial if you know that you have low nutrient levels or an increased need for a particular 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 being beneficial for treating low magnesium levels in the blood. This form is found, among other things, in magnesium complexes such as SuperMag, and many of our customers find that it promotes relaxation quickly, as it is a powder and is easily absorbed by the body. This type of powder is usually chosen for intake in the evening for issues such as cramps, migraines and constipation. Ultimately, it does not provide the body with as much magnesium as some other forms, but it serves its purpose. 10. Magnesium succinate Magnesium succinate is a magnesium salt. It is a good form of magnesium for relaxation and restful sleep. 11. Magnesium oxide Magnesium oxide is a common form of magnesium used to relieve constipation and provide support for cramps and muscle tension. This form is often used for digestive problems such as heartburn and constipation. It is appreciated because it often has a lower price, but it may not have as high bioavailability as other forms. 12. Magnesium carbonate Magnesium carbonate has high bioavailability and is also suitable for people with digestive problems. Magnesium carbonate is often used to relieve heartburn and stomach discomfort, like magnesium oxide. 13. Magnesium chloride Magnesium chloride is magnesium in liquid transdermal form, meaning it is absorbed through the skin. This type supports a healthy nervous system and has high bioavailability. The form can pass through the skin and into the body, making it suitable for those who struggle with digestive issues or experience severe diarrhea from oral magnesium supplements. 14. 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 for external use only, for example in a foot bath or bath, or as a compress on the skin. It is often recommended by physiotherapists and sports injury specialists. 15. Magnesium L-threonate Studies have shown that magnesium L-threonate can increase magnesium levels in the brain more effectively than other forms of magnesium, providing a form of magnesium that can support memory, learning and neuroplasticity, as well as help the brain recover from mental strain and stress. What is elemental magnesium? Under the nutritional information on a magnesium supplement, it usually states something like: Magnesium glycinate 2500 mg, of which magnesium 300 mg, or elemental magnesium. 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 such as malate (malic acid) or citrate (citric acid). Elemental magnesium is therefore the amount of pure magnesium you consume once the substance the magnesium is bound to has been excluded.
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Natural solutions for more volume in hair
In this guide, you will learn about the cause behind flat hair, how volumizing products work, which products add volume, and how you can get volume in your hair without products. Follow along! Why do you have flat hair?What makes a product give volume?Organic volume-boosting hair productsSupplements that strengthen and lift hair from withinTips on how to get more volume without products Why do you have flat hair? It’s easier to understand what it takes to get more volume in your hair if you know the reason why your hair is flat. Here are the three most common reasons for flat hair. Thin hair For natural reasons, hair can easily become flat if you have fine hair or are starting to thin. Besides volumizing shampoo, shampoos that stimulate hair growth can create good conditions for more volume. Combine with the right styling products and a few smart tricks to give your hair a fantastic lift. Oily hair If you think your hair is fluffy and has great volume when freshly washed, but not otherwise… then it’s the sebum that both weighs the hair down and makes the strands stick together and to the scalp. Choose hair care products and adopt hair habits that balance sebum production in the scalp. Tackle the overproduction of sebum first and focus on organic sebum-balancing shampoos (they are usually made for oily hair). Try to wash your hair (with shampoo) less often. 1-2 times a week is good. Do not use shampoos and other products that dry out the scalp. Avoid classic, conventional volumizing shampoos for now (sebum-balancing volumizing shampoos are okay). Try doing a scalp detox, especially if you experience itching or buildup on your scalp. Be patient, it usually takes time before sebum production regulates down. Dull and stiff hair Dull and stiff hair can happen regardless of hair type or quality. It might not be as flat as oily hair, but it has a weight that flattens the hair and makes it completely lifeless. The cause behind this can be many things. Too many chemicals, too many hair products, various layers of buildup like lime and pollution, etc. What you need to do is a hair detox and wash away the buildup. Do as follows: Shampoo your hair at least twice, preferably more. Use a foaming or deep-cleansing shampoo, e.g. Eco Cosmetics Repair Shampoo or Bruns Detox Shampoo no. 04. Use your fingers to massage your shampoo thoroughly into your hair to get it really clean. Don’t rub your hair between your hands (that damages the poor hair), but massage gently. The hair can feel very rough after so many shampoo washes. No worries! Detangle with a good conditioner and enjoy shiny, lively hair. This process may need to be repeated several times until the hair is completely free of buildup. Vinegar rinses can also be very helpful for an effective hair and scalp detox. What makes a product give volume? This is not only interesting to know but can be crucial for your scalp and hair health in the long run. Of course, we want volume, but not at the expense of hair condition. It’s also good to understand how a product works to know if it suits your specific needs. Polymers Polymers are substances made up of very large molecules, i.e., macromolecules, which are very common in volume-boosting products. They usually form a film around the hair strands and swell. They can also strengthen the hair structure (in the form of protein). This gives the hair a thicker feel. The problem with synthetic polymers is that some penetrate the strands and damage the hair structure. Cationic polymers are also difficult to wash out (they form buildup in the hair) and are hard to break down in nature. Fortunately, there are natural polymers that are easy to wash out and break down in nature! For example, various forms of guar (from the guar bean) are widely used in organic hair care. They swell and create a fuller-hair feeling. Starch Starch and clay (also talc) are frequently used, often in the form of dry shampoo, to separate hair strands from the scalp. These absorb oil and moisture, giving a fresh feeling and more volume to the hair. Simple and effective! More hair – more volume Biotin (vitamin B7) increases keratin production, which in turn is said to produce more hair follicles. That’s why you may sometimes find biotin in your shampoo. Stimulating the scalp to awaken hair follicles is another way to encourage hair growth. Rosemary, peppermint, caffeine, nettles, and many more are common ingredients found in organic hair products designed to boost hair growth. Note that there are no scientific studies proving that biotin or plant extracts in hair products can increase hair quantity. Deep cleansing If you have oily, dull, or stiff hair with buildup, deep-cleansing products (shampoos, detox treatments) can work wonders. When excess oil and buildup are removed from the hair strands, the hair gets a natural lift. In organic hair care, it is common to find clays, various combinations of mild, mostly plant-based cleansers, and plant oils. They clean deeply without disturbing the scalp's sebum production or drying out the hair. Dry hair gives more volume Strangely, there are shampoos that build volume by drying out the hair. Dry and coarse hair has more volume than hydrated and shiny hair. We want to flag this as a bad way to create more volume in your hair. We recommend switching volume shampoo if your hair feels drier or if it causes dandruff or itching on your scalp. This applies to all shampoos, of course. It doesn’t have to be a bad shampoo per se, but it’s a sign that it doesn’t suit your scalp and hair. A good volume shampoo is designed to stimulate blood circulation long-term, support hair growth, provide moisture, strengthen the keratin structure, balance sebum production, and promote a healthy scalp and healthy hair follicles. Organic volume-boosting hair products You can get more volume in your hair with hair products that are kind to you and our nature. Here we share our favorites. Shampoo One of our most popular volume shampoos is Kelp & Mint Volumizing Shampoo. It gives hair volume, balances the scalp, and leaves a fresh feeling. Follow up with their volume-boosting conditioner for best results. Kelp & Mint Volumizing Shampoo, 236 ml If you’re looking for a volume-boosting shampoo in solid form, we recommend Grön Lycka’s Sunlit Shimmer Volume Shampoo. It’s a very concentrated shampoo that cleans deeply and gives lots of volume without drying out hair and scalp. Finish with their volume-boosting conditioner Queens of Volume. Grön Lycka – Sunlit Shimmer Volume Clay Shampoo for normal to oily hair / colored hair Find more volume-boosting shampoos here. Having trouble finding the right one? Learn how to choose the right type of shampoo for your needs. Dry shampoo Dry shampoo instantly adds volume. It quickly absorbs excess oil, separates hair strands, and gives airy hair in a flash. Perfect for extending the time between washes or just for extra volume. A truly good and luxurious dry shampoo is Rahua Dry Shampoo. Here, clay is combined with starch in a user-friendly jar. Squeeze the jar to release a soft shower of dry shampoo, completely without propellant. This dry shampoo works for all hair colors and smells fantastic of vanilla and star anise. Even Living Libations dry shampoos are delightful and very effective. They are concentrated, absorb excess oil, remove dry flakes, soothe the scalp, increase shine, and make the hair look great. Styling products Hairspray is an obvious choice to fix and maintain volume in the hair. To lift the hair and build volume throughout, you need a really good styling product and a bit of heat. Bruns Hair Soufflé is exactly the kind of styling product that gives your hair a real lift if used correctly. Apply the hair soufflé close to the scalp and activate the product with heat by blow-drying your hair. For maximum volume, blow-dry your hair upside down. But watch out for the mad scientist hairstyle if you have short hair. We’re not joking when we say this product can lift your hair! Feel free to read more about Bruns styling products. Here you can find more styling products that add volume to your hair. Supplements that strengthen and lift hair from within Our supplements don’t promise more hair volume. However, we want to offer tips on supplements that promote strong and healthy hair, which creates good conditions for more volume. Biotin Biotin is said to be hair’s best friend and is also called vitamin B7 or vitamin H. We recommend Thorne Biotin 8, which contains a full 8000 mcg of biotin per capsule. If you’re vegetarian, it’s good to know that their magnesium salts of fatty acids are not derived from animals. Skin, hair and nails If you don’t know what you need, we recommend Holistic Skin, Hair and Nails. This supplement contains a good mix of most of what’s needed for balanced, normal hair. For example, silica, hyaluronic acid, keratin, d-biotin (the most active form of biotin), copper (contributes to normal hair pigmentation), and more. Horsetail For those interested in more natural options, we’d like to recommend the herb horsetail. Horsetail is known for its high silica content and has therefore become a popular herb to take internally to give hair shine, strength, and to support hair growth. We recommend Terranova Beauty Complex, which contains horsetail and many other wonderful herbs for both hair and skin. Tips on how to get more volume without products There’s a lot you can do, often without any products, to create more volume in your hair. Here are some great tips for naturally beautiful hair. Wash your hair less often As strange as it sounds, this is one of the best tips. Work towards gradually washing your hair less often, and your sebum production will automatically decrease. Less oily hair means more volume. Care for your hair Dry and damaged hair may indeed have more volume, but it looks stiff and dull. Strong and healthy hair has a different kind of volume that shines and falls beautifully. So don’t forget to care for your hair between all the styling and volume-creating. Hair masks, hair tonics, and hair oils can make a big difference for your hair’s well-being. Blow-dry your hair the right way The hairdryer is a great tool for boosting volume. So don’t blow-dry your hair in your usual part; flip your hair and blow “the wrong way.” Blow-dry in every direction except your usual part. The best way is to dry your hair upside down, which is the opposite of the usual position. The more your hair is used to one position, the flatter it tends to lie. Brush your hair the right way Brushing your hair the right way follows the same principle as blow-drying it correctly. If you want more volume, don’t brush your hair in your usual part. Brush your hair backward, forward, right, left—every direction except your usual part. When hair is brushed the opposite way, the strands lift. Maybe try changing your part sometimes? Style correctly Do you think your styling product isn’t working or works poorly? You might be doing it wrong. Try: don’t apply styling products to wet hair. Otherwise, you dilute the product, reducing its effectiveness. Apply to dry or slightly damp hair. use fewer products. Too many products weigh hair down. don’t apply your styling product all over your hair. It can weigh hair down and make it flat. Volume products are usually designed to lift the hair roots. Try applying your styling product only to the roots. activate your volumizing styling product with a hairdryer. Styling products often work better with a little heat. Conditioner or not? Do you really need conditioner? If your hair doesn’t tangle or isn’t very dry, conditioner can weigh it down. Try skipping conditioner after shampoo and see how your hair behaves. If you have fine or thin hair, a mild organic shampoo usually works well. If you need conditioner, try applying it only to the ends. Heatless volume curls Put the curling iron aside and try creating curls without heat. Tie your hair in a bun overnight or make a french braid when your hair is slightly damp, or why not try heatless hair wrapping. If your hair is smooth and slippery, use hairspray before braiding. Wake up the next morning with lovely waves and lots of volume. Scalp massage Massaging the scalp every day can make a world of difference. Try massaging in the morning, a nice way to start the day, in the shower, or in front of the TV. Use clean fingers, a brush, or a comb. When the scalp is massaged, the hair roots get a lift, and blood circulation and hair growth are stimulated. We hope you found some great tips on how to add volume to your hair! Feel free to ask any questions in the comments, and we’ll help you.
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Dry scalp? Natural detox methods for healthier hair
Do you have a dry, itchy, or flaky scalp? Does your hair grow slowly? Does your hair get greasy quickly after washing? Then a scalp detox might be right for you. A detox frees the scalp’s pores and hair follicles from clogging grease, dirt, exhaust fumes, and residues from hair products. In this blog post, we go through the benefits of different natural detox treatments you can do at home yourself, which in the long run give a healthier scalp and healthy hair. I also describe step by step how these are done. The journey to beautiful hair starts with a clean, balanced, and healthy scalp. Join me! What methods are there and how do I choose the right one? There are many good ways to do a detox. Here we go through different methods for different needs and starting points. It’s fine to combine the different methods. But don’t do everything at once, as the scalp, like facial skin, can become irritated from sudden intensive treatment. | Oils | Clay | Vinegar rinse | Aloe Vera Gel - Dissolves grease and dirt | Absorbs grease and dirt | Restores pH (so bacteria don’t thrive) Adds moisture to the scalp | | Dissolves dry flakes | Scrubs away dead skin cells and dry flakes | Rinses away waste products | Breaks down dead skin cells with natural enzymes | | Nourishes and cares for hair & scalp | Reduces dandruff | Dissolves lime buildup and makes hair soft and shiny | Soothing for irritated scalp and itching | | Can relieve itching, reduce dandruff, etc. (depending on the oil) | Adds volume to hair | Soothing for itching, reduces dandruff Detox with oil Khadis hair oils consist of different combinations of oils and herbs that have multiple benefits compared to a single oil. They are also formulated to be easier to wash out compared to heavy oils like coconut oil. There are 5 variants of Khadis hair oils. Choose the one that best suits your scalp type. Fushi’s hair oil Really Good Hair Oil contains a very nourishing blend of organic cold-pressed oils and herbs like Brahmi and Neem. How to do an oil detox Distribute the oil on dry or damp scalp with your fingers. If you have a lot of hair, you may need to part it with a comb and apply section by section. Massage your fingers directly on the scalp in circular motions so you don’t pull on the hair. The massage helps the oil absorb into the scalp. Leave on for at least 1 hour or let it work overnight. Now the grease, dry flakes, and dead skin cells have dissolved or softened. Distribute and massage your shampoo into the oily but dry scalp (without water). Add a little water and work up a lather. Rinse with water. Shampoo more times if needed until hair and scalp feel clean. Treat your scalp with oil 1-4 times a month or every time before planned shampooing. Detox with clay Clay is very absorbent and a great deep-cleansing method to remove grease and waste products. Just like the skin on your face and body, your scalp also needs exfoliation. By scrubbing the scalp with clay, dead skin cells and flakes are reduced, while blood circulation is stimulated, which benefits hair growth. Rhassoul clay is popular for hair care. It is affordable and easy to use. Keep in mind that it can be coarse or finely ground. The coarse type is preferred for hair and scalp; it is not as absorbent as the finely ground (which is better suited for face and body). We recommend Crearome’s rhassoul clay. Since clay is alkaline, you should restore pH with an acid rinse (see below about vinegar rinse). A detox can be done 1-3 times per week depending on how oily and sensitive the scalp (and hair) is. Start with once a week or every other week if you have a sensitive scalp. How to mix your clay for hair: Use a metal-free bowl/jar and fork. Mix the clay with water until the consistency is like thick yogurt. Let the clay swell for at least 15 minutes. You can add a few drops of oil if you have a dry scalp or dry hair. Leftover clay can be saved in a clean jar with a lid and lasts about 7 days. How to do a detox with clay Distribute the clay on dry or damp scalp with your fingers or a brush. If you have a lot of hair, you may need to part it with a comb and apply section by section. Scrub by massaging gently with your fingers directly on the scalp with small movements, as you don’t want to damage the hair. Let the clay work for a total of 5-15 minutes. Count the time from the massage. For example, if you massage for 5 minutes, you can let the clay work for another 5-10 minutes. Use a shorter treatment time if you have a sensitive scalp. Rinse the clay thoroughly with water. Massage and rinse with diluted vinegar (see below) if you like. Finish with conditioner if needed. Detox with vinegar rinse Dandruff, itching, irritating or smelly scalp? Stiff, dull, and lifeless hair? Try apple cider vinegar, which has a “just right” low pH, just like our skin around pH 4-5. Strong foaming shampoos and clays are alkaline (high pH). When the scalp’s pH becomes alkaline for a long time, both fungi and bacteria can thrive, which can cause dandruff and an unpleasant scalp. Apple cider vinegar is also great at dissolving mineral buildup and makes hair incredibly soft and shiny! Try Nea of Sweden's or Ekendahl's fine vinegar rinses. They are enriched with moisturizing and stimulating ingredients. How to do a detox with a vinegar rinse Mix 1-2 teaspoons of vinegar with a cup of water or choose a mix that blends 1-2 tablespoons with 1 liter of water. Increase or decrease the amount of vinegar as needed. Rinse the scalp and hair with the diluted solution. Massage the scalp and hair. Repeat the vinegar rinse and massage in rounds until the solution is finished. Let it sit for a while. Rinse with water. The hair should now be soft and shiny. If the hair still feels dull and stiff, try a stronger solution next time. Vinegar rinse can be done as often as needed. When washing hair, the vinegar rinse should be done after shampooing and before any conditioner. Good luck with your detox! Feel free to ask questions in the comments or by email, and Glimja's product specialists will help you. Wondering which shampoo suits you? Then read this article.
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10 natural ways to show love on Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day has become a celebration of love and appreciation, and we think that’s wonderful – especially if we emphasize ALL hearts and thus include more than just a potential romantic partner. As Doris sang in her hit song “Did you give the world some love today, babe?” in the 70s: “Everybody in this world, has to do a whole lot more, than to love the one they spend a lifetime looking for.” We all have people in our lives we wish to remember to appreciate. Maybe you have a parent, a sibling, a child, a beloved friend, or partner you want to acknowledge? Here we have brainstormed what we would like to give (and receive!) as a surprise for someone who means a lot to us. 1. Call or text someone you miss and tell them something you appreciate about them 2. Show appreciation with a secret note in a jacket pocket or a post-it on the bathroom mirror 3. Write a poem and read it aloud 4. Take a walk together 5. Treat someone to coffee and talk about life 6. Go to a spa or create a home spa Go to their favorite spa or stock up on bath salts, face masks, essential oils, and other natural products from our body care range. 7. Massage with candles lit Play their favorite music and stock up on natural massage oil. Getting a full-body massage is very relaxing and appreciated. 8. Cook and treat someone to something extra delicious 9. Play a fun game together 10. Give flowers and chocolate Keeping traditions alive by giving flowers and chocolate never goes wrong.
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8 common mistakes when treating acne-prone skin
Acne or pimples form when the opening of a sebaceous gland gets clogged with sebum and dead skin cells along with bacteria. The sebaceous gland becomes inflamed and pimples appear. That’s why it’s especially important to: keep the skin clean from bacteria and dirt. wash away excess sebum so that more hair follicles don’t get clogged. exfoliate dead skin cells that clog the skin. keep the skin moisturized to reduce sebum production and dry skin cells. Avoid this if you have acne There are things that can worsen your acne. Make sure to avoid these traps, especially if you have stubborn recurring acne that you can’t get rid of. 1. Drying out the skin What you want to avoid at all costs is drying out the skin. Sebum plays an important role in a healthy skin barrier. When the skin is dry, it is stimulated to produce more sebum, which can contribute to more acne. In cleansers and facial toners, it is mainly soap agents and alcohol that dry out the skin. Therefore, choose cleansing products that: is mild and doesn’t foam much (or at all). is moisturizing. does not smell like alcohol, is alcohol-free, or contains a small amount of alcohol. After cleansing, the skin should feel clean, comfortable, and supple. If the skin feels irritated, dry, tight, or oily, you need to change your cleanser. 2. Incorrect skin pH The skin and the natural sebum it produces have a slightly acidic pH around 5. Soaps and anything that foams have a higher pH and are usually alkaline. Since bacteria thrive best in alkaline environments above pH 7, it’s important to consider the skin’s pH. Create an unfavorable environment for bacteria by lowering the skin’s pH. Choose a mild and moisturizing facial cleanser. Use facial toner, especially after showering or washing your face. Its main purpose is to balance the pH. Use a clean herbal water or hydrolate as a facial toner. They have a pH value around 4-6. 3. Squeezing or picking at acne Not even freshly washed hands are completely bacteria-free. Fingers and nails only worsen acne. Don’t touch or feel the acne. Squeezing, picking, or scratching is the worst thing you can do. Fingers introduce more bacteria to the skin and worsen inflammation. Then it can: the acne bursts. Sebum and bacteria spread on the skin, causing more pimples, spots, and impurities. bacteria and dirt are pushed deeper into pores and hair follicles. damaged skin forms scars. the cell walls get damaged. The pores get larger the more they are squeezed and picked at. 4. Dirty makeup brushes No skin gets better from dirty makeup brushes. Oil, dirt, and bacteria sooner or later cause acne, blemishes, and blackheads. Wash your brushes as often as you can. If you don’t have time in the morning, set them aside and wash them in the evening. 5. Exfoliating the wrong way Acne can tighten the skin and sometimes cause pain. A good way to reduce pressure, dead skin cells, dry skin, and soothe inflammation in the pores is to exfoliate. However, it’s easy to overdo exfoliation, which does more harm than good. Therefore, keep in mind that: avoid pressing too hard, especially if you use scrubs with coarse abrasive particles that can aggravate acne. exfoliate with enzymes or acids. avoid combining products that contain different acids, vitamins, and bioactive ingredients. This is to prevent severe skin irritation. exfoliate moderately. Follow the instructions without extending the treatment time or exfoliating more often than recommended. 6. Mineral oils and silicones Watch out for mineral oils and silicones in your creams and makeup. They form a film on the skin like a barrier that: blocks the absorption of moisture and other nutrients in your skincare products. The skin becomes dry and lifeless. can trap bacteria, dirt, and sebum and contribute to acne breakouts, (black)heads, and impure skin. causes dead skin cells to stay longer on the skin. is difficult to wash off. It requires strongly foaming cleansers and multi-step cleansing, which can irritate and cause unbalanced skin. Read the ingredient list and avoid silicone, mineral oil, petroleum jelly, paraffin, and anything ending with -cone, -conol, -silane, -siloxane. New names and variants of silicones constantly appear, which can be hard to keep track of. Our tip is to choose organically certified or natural products – an easy way to avoid silicones on skin and hair. All the products you find here at Glimja belong to these categories. 7. The fear of vegetable oils There is a general fear of oils. Remember that there is a wide range of pure vegetable oils, each with different properties. Heavy oils can work wonders on dry skin, while they can clog pores on oilier skin types. Avoid heavy oils such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, waxes, and palm oil. Instead, use light oils. Keep in mind that oil blends behave differently on the skin. For example, coconut oil (which has antibacterial properties) can have a positive effect on oily and acne-prone skin when combined with other oils. The advantage of using pure cold-pressed oils is that they are usually: without fragrance and additives. incredibly concentrated and therefore cheaper than creams. multi-products that can be used on body, face, and hair. If you have sensitive skin or tend to react to different products, oils are the best choice. They are free from additives and it’s easier to keep track of what you (don’t) tolerate compared to a cream that usually has a long ingredient list. 8. Feed inflammation Remember that the skin is the body’s largest organ. What you eat affects the skin’s overall health. Support the skin by drinking water, eating healthy fats, vegetables, and fruits. Keep in mind that these foods feed inflammation in the body: refined sugar. hardened fats. refined carbohydrates. Skip semi-processed and ready-made meals, fast food, processed food, and fried food. The list of inflammatory foods is long. Focus on eating varied, fresh food, preferably plant-based, and include all the colors of the rainbow on your plate with plenty of vegetables. Eating healthily is important for the skin’s well-being. Products for those with acne If you have acne or pimples, it is important to have the right kind of skincare products. This, combined with a good skincare routine, can calm, prevent acne, and drastically reduce breakouts. How many products you need in your routine is highly individual. Generally, this applies: If you have sensitive skin or don’t usually use skincare products, start with a minimalist routine consisting of cleansing, spot treatment (mask/peel/serum), and face cream or facial oil. Prioritize cleansing products if you have a tight budget. Then add more products for faster and more effective results. Cleansing Your cleanser should be able to remove dirt and excess sebum without washing away the natural sebum needed in the skin. It should also be moisturizing, soothing, antibacterial, and antiseptic. Odylique Lemon Tea Tree Facial Wash meets all the criteria for a really good cleanser for acne-prone skin. It is also: gentle – beneficial for sensitive skin types and teenage skin. moisturizing – good for both dry and oily skin. easy to rinse off with water – perfect for those with painful acne. Other good facial cleansers for acne-prone skin: Eco Cosmetics – a good budget choice, suitable for normal to oily skin. Evolve Daily Detox Facial Wash detoxifies and rebalances the skin, suitable for normal to oily skin. Toner Your facial toner should balance the skin's pH level. For acne-prone skin, it should also be moisturizing, soothing, antiseptic, sebum-balancing, mildly exfoliating, and provide good bacteria. Good toners for acne-prone skin: Akamuti Tea Tree Water – a good and mild hydrosol for acne-prone skin. Evolve Daily Defence Moisture Mist with Prebiotic – toner with prebiotics that feed the skin's good bacteria and strengthen the skin's microbiome. Gentle exfoliating toner with AHA fruit acids. Evolve Liquid Radiance Glycolic Toner – with a blend of AHA and BHA acids that help increase exfoliation. Tip! If you wear makeup or have troubled skin, it’s best to sweep your toner with a cleansing pad to catch the last traces of dirt. Use gentle strokes if you have sensitive skin. Exfoliation Your exfoliant should help remove dead skin cells. It can also be anti-inflammatory, cleanse pores, and have balancing effects. Good exfoliation for acne-prone skin: Evolve Miracle Mask is an exfoliating mask with AHA acids. Evolve SOS Balance Mask is specially designed for troubled acne-prone skin. It reduces clogged pores, exfoliates the skin, and brightens the complexion. Suitable for oily and combination skin as well as skin prone to acne. Good for large pores. Super Acai Exfoliator is a mask that removes toxins and brightens the skin. Mask Your face mask should provide deep cleansing. It can also have antibacterial and balancing effects and soothe the skin. Good face masks for acne-prone skin: Sheet Mask Anti-acne Dr Sannas Detox Face Mask Eco by Sonya Face Compost Purple Power You can read more about face masks. Serum Include a serum in your skincare routine for best results. Choose one that is anti-inflammatory, preferably hydrating, soothing, and balancing. Odylique Spot On Serum is a wonderful serum specially made for troubled acne-prone skin. The serum is also gentle on the skin and suitable for sensitive skin. Other good serums for acne-prone skin: Evolve Rainforest Rescue Blemish Serum – soothes inflamed skin. Spot treatment: SOS from Weleda – targets impurities spot by spot. It is designed to combat pimples and blemishes. Zippity Dew spot cleans and reduces blemishes and stubborn pimples that just won’t quit. i+m Naturkosmetik Anti-Pimple SOS Treatment – spot cleans and reduces blemishes. Face Cream A face cream with strong antibacterial effects can easily become too harsh and irritating on the skin. Instead, focus on a face cream that keeps the skin calm, balanced, and hydrated. Good face creams for acne-prone skin: Refining Facial Lotion from Weleda balances combination and oily skin. Balancing Cream Clay Aloe Vera – balances the skin, mattifies, and protects against blue light (from e.g. computer screens) Evolve True Balance Gel Cream balances sebum production, reduces pores, hydrates, and protects against pollution. Facial Oil Your facial oil should be light. It should help balance the skin, be rich in vitamins and fatty acids that benefit inflamed and acne-prone skin. Good oils for acne-prone skin: Fushi Camellia Oil, a fine oil with many benefits. Jojoba Oil Sunscreen SPF If you have acne, you need to use sunscreen to reduce scarring. Sunscreen is also a must if you use acid peels. Good sunscreens for acne-prone skin: Biosolis Sun Spray SPF50Odylique Sun Screen SPF 30.
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9 health benefits of exercise for body and mind
After a good workout, we feel great, whether it was a light, moderate, or intense session, we experience pleasant feelings and our mood improves. In a 2011 experiment in England, an app was used where participants recorded when they felt happiest or most down. They collected more than 3 million responses over a year, and exercise came in second place. 2. Improves mental health One of the biggest and most consistent benefits of regular exercise, besides improving mood, is that it reduces stress. Outdoor walks, swimming, dancing, yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and jogging all relieve stress, reduce anxiety, and improve quality of life. 3. Combats insomnia Exercise can help us sleep better. By strengthening the circadian rhythm, exercise can help you feel more alert during the day and sleep better at night. It also promotes better sleep quality. However, it may be important to exercise during the day and not too late in the evening, as evening workouts can have the opposite effect on sleep for some people. 4. Promotes heart health A meta-analysis of various studies and experiments conducted by researchers in 2013 showed no detectable differences between those who exercised and those who took medication to prevent heart disease and diabetes. The review included 305 studies with more than 339,000 participants. For patients who had already suffered a stroke, physical activity was actually more effective than medication. 5. Increases lifespan Diet and a sedentary lifestyle are major contributing factors to the steady physical decline often associated with aging. But physical fitness and strength reduce the risk of age-related diseases. For older adults, exercises like Qi Gong, Tai Chi, or yoga can be optimal routines if low impact is desired. Or why not get a trampoline that strengthens the cardiovascular system, activates the lymphatic system and all muscles, as well as every cell’s metabolism without straining the body. 6. Supports balance during menopause Hormonal changes, mood swings, or hot flashes can be challenging during menopause. Physical exercise has been shown to improve the physical and psychological changes associated with menopause. 7. Supports a healthy pregnancy Research has shown that pregnant women who engage in mild to moderate exercise have better heart and lung fitness, are less likely to experience urinary incontinence, have fewer symptoms of low mood, and have fewer cases of gestational diabetes. 8. Boosts self-confidence Exercise can help us feel better about ourselves. One benefit of exercise is that people generally develop a better self-image and become more satisfied with their natural appearance. Another benefit can be learning to set goals in training, follow them, and achieve them. This builds self-confidence and a strong sense of satisfaction. Try it and see how it feels. 9. Perform better at work A study showed that employees who exercised before work or during lunch breaks reported feeling less stressed and were happier and more productive. If you don’t have time to exercise during lunch, a quick walk in daylight can make a huge difference for both well-being and productivity.
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