Health Blog
Health Blog
Guide: Choosing the Right Aleppo Soap for Hair & Scalp
Aleppo soap, also known as laurel soap, is a fine, natural soap made from olive oil as a base with added laurel berry oil in varying percentages. It is a handmade soap completely free from surfactants, sulfates, and fragrances. The soap does not dry out skin or hair and has a lovely, natural soapy scent, which varies slightly depending on the percentage of laurel berry oil. The laurel berry oil comes from the fruits of the laurel tree, which mainly grows in Syria and around the Mediterranean. Laurel oil is known for its healing properties, making this soap a natural choice for many. Aleppo soap has been made the same way since 0 BC. Olive oil is mixed with lye in a large vessel over several days. During this process, the olive oil saponifies into a thick liquid soap mass, and laurel berry oil is added. The soap mass is then poured into large molds and allowed to harden for about a day before being cut into pieces. The soaps are then stacked in large, beautiful towers for 6-12 months, during which the soap matures and develops its nourishing and antiseptic properties. 7 benefits of washing your hair with a solid Aleppo soap Environmentally friendly. Healthy without unnecessary additives like surfactants, sulfates, and fragrances. Budget-friendly. Long-lasting. Helps with problematic issues like itchy and flaky scalps, often also eczema. Suitable for the whole family, including children and pregnant women. Perfect for frequent travelers (no heavy bottles to carry). How to wash your hair with Aleppo soap Massage the soap into your scalp and let it work during the massage for a few minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water. You can wash a second time if needed; this usually makes the hair feel even softer. You might need conditioner afterward, but many say they don’t. It’s also fine to rinse with apple cider vinegar diluted in water for extra shine and softness. You can wash your hair every 2-3 days for 2-3 weeks as a treatment, or you might get attached to the shampoo soap and switch to it permanently. Review: Aleppo soap for itchy scalp, eczema, and dandruff ”My scalp really benefited from this amazing soap. After the first wash, the itching stopped. It did sting a little during washing, but after rinsing, it felt soothing. In a very short time, the eczema dried up and I was also free from dandruff. During this time, my hair was a bit unruly, but my scalp healed. After about three weeks, I went back to washing my hair as usual with an organic shampoo, and the eczema has not returned. I can’t express how wonderful it is to finally be free from all the itching after so many years.” 5 problems Aleppo soap is recommended for Anyone with itchy and flaky scalp. Those with oily or curly hair who want to try the “No Poo” no-shampoo method. Often very good for skin with eczema, psoriasis, and skin allergies. The soap can help with hair loss. The soap can help with acne. Which percentage of laurel berry oil should I choose? Aleppo soap is available with 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, and 40% laurel berry oil. The most common starting points are 12% or 20%, then moving upwards. This is because soaps with lower laurel berry oil content (8% to 20%) suit everyone with normal skin and scalp. Good for hand washing, hair washing, and body washing for both men and women. If you have very thin and sensitive skin, a low laurel berry oil content of 8 or 12% is recommended. A higher laurel berry oil content, 20-40%, is good if you have drier skin and scalp in winter. Soaps with higher laurel content, 20% to 32%, are perfect as shaving soaps for both men and women. A higher laurel berry oil content is also preferable for itchy scalps. The highest laurel berry oil content, 32% to 40%, is often very popular for problematic scalps with psoriasis or eczema, but we recommend starting with a soap with a lower percentage and then moving up. Do you use Aleppo soap and have good tips or questions for us? Write a comment and we will respond!
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9 smart ways to use neem for skin and hair
Due to neem’s many healing and protective qualities, the neem tree is called the “friend and protector” and the “miracle tree” throughout India. In India, neem is considered the “village pharmacy” and is said to be a “universal remedy” with strong antibacterial and antiviral properties. The magical leaves of the neem tree Because neem contains more than 100 bioactive ingredients, it has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine. Neem is an evergreen remarkably tolerant to both heat and drought. It can grow up to twenty meters in three years, is termite-resistant, and is often used in reforestation. The leaves’ bitter taste comes from a range of complex compounds. Ayurvedic texts describe neem tree leaves as having an almost magical effect on skin and hair. The neem tree’s leaves are known to help with eczema, acne, and small wounds. One traditional method involves mashing the leaves into a paste that is applied directly to wounds or skin rashes. Neem also helps heal gums, prevent cavities, and is a welcome ingredient in natural toothpaste. Traditionally, people would break off a twig from the tree and chew on it. Note: Neem oil is thick and can solidify at temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius. To make it more liquid, gently warm it in a water bath. Note: Neem oil should not be used on small children, by pregnant women, or while breastfeeding. 3 ways to use neem powder Having Neem powder at home can help with scalp itchiness, dandruff, acne, and eczema. 1. Hair Mask Add a little water to the powder in a bowl to make a “paste.” Massage the paste into the scalp and leave it on for 5-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water. Note that neem has a strong scent but it does not transfer to your hair. Then use a natural shampoo/shampoo soap/conditioner or just rinse with apple cider vinegar. Do what suits you best. NOTE! Make sure not to get it in your mouth or eyes; it’s not harmful since Neem can be eaten, but it tastes really bad. 2. Face Mask Neem is very effective against acne, impurities, and oily skin. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Neem powder and add a little water to make a smooth batter. Use it as is or mix with some rhassoul clay, honey, or plain yogurt to form a smooth paste. Neem doesn’t smell particularly nice, but the scent does not linger in either hair or on the skin. Avoid getting it in your mouth as it is extremely bitter and tastes very unpleasant. You can also do a body pack for skin problems like eczema and fungal infections. 3. Body Scrub Add Neem powder to your salt body scrub for skin issues such as eczema. 6 ways to use neem oil Neem oil is extracted from the crushed seeds. Just like the leaves, neem oil is used to treat skin and hair problems. The oil is especially helpful against dandruff, itching, and head lice. Neem seed oil has a very beneficial effect on several types of skin problems and is used, among other things, for treating psoriasis, eczema, dry skin, and itching. 4. Against dandruff Neem oil’s properties soothe and help the scalp achieve better balance. Mix a few drops of neem oil into your shampoo or conditioner. Massage in and leave for a few minutes before rinsing out. Repeat regularly until the problem disappears. There are also many ready-made shampoos and conditioners containing neem oil. For example, Pure Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Conditioner and Pure Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo. 5. Nail and foot fungus Fungal infections on feet and nails can be stubborn. Neem oil’s antifungal properties can be helpful. Make a foot bath. Drop 5-10 drops into warm water and stir, sit for a while and relax. For deeper foot care, you can make an oil blend to rub on the feet afterward. Mix 70 ml thistle oil and 30 ml neem oil, add 10 drops of tea tree oil and blend in a bottle. Apply to the feet daily and let the mixture absorb into the skin. Store the mixture in a dark, cool place. 6. Minor wounds and mild skin irritations Mix neem oil with a more fluid vegetable oil such as thistle oil, melon oil, or camellia oil. Add about one tenth neem oil to the mixture. Then apply the mixture over the area. If you want to mask the scent of neem oil and tolerate essential oils, you can add a couple of drops of any fragrance (2 drops/10 ml mixture). 7. Insect oil Neem oil is not only good for the skin, insects also dislike the scent. That’s why you can use neem to keep insects away. Mix coconut oil with about one tenth neem oil. Apply to exposed areas of the body. We humans usually don’t like the smell of neem either, so you can mix in essential oils to mask the scent. Add a couple of drops of essential oil (2 drops/10 ml mixture). Insects also dislike lemongrass or lavender, so you can advantageously use them for extra protection. 8. Head lice Take two parts organic vegetable oil and one part neem oil, and feel free to add a few drops of tea tree and lavender essential oil. Make sure to oil your hair all the way to the tips. Be extra thorough at the nape and behind the ears. Leave in for at least 8 hours or overnight. Rinse out with an organic shampoo, preferably one with oils from lavender, tea tree, or rosemary that kills lice. Then use conditioner to dissolve the greasy oil. Then comb your hair thoroughly with a lice comb to remove dead lice and eggs. Repeat the entire process after one week. Comb your hair daily for 14 days with a lice comb and wash all bedding. 9. Pesticide As a natural pesticide, neem oil can be used to prevent pests on plants both indoors and outdoors. Mix 1 tsp neem oil with ½ tsp soap in 1 liter of water. Pour into a spray bottle and spray on your plants. Besides the leaves and stem, you can also spray the soil and around the stem. You can also apply neem oil directly to the leaves. Be careful if you have ladybugs in your garden because neem can harm them too. Use neem as a dietary supplement According to Ayurveda, neem purifies the blood and body of toxins when taken orally. The taste of the leaves is very bitter and astringent, so we recommend neem in capsule form. In India, fresh neem leaves are still scattered around the bed when someone is sick and has a fever, and a bunch of leaves is hung on the front door. The air is filtered through neem leaves which helps disinfect the room and prevent the spread of illness. Here you can find neem in all its forms Neem powder Neem prose oil Neem aeet mask Neem shonditioner Neem hair cbox Neem conditioner Neem toothpaste Neem for internal use Have you found neem helpful? Share in a comment so we can all learn from you!
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9 common hair problems and natural solutions
We get many questions about hair problems and here we share our answers and tips. Many of the questions have the same solutions, and you can find these solutions under answers A, B, and C which you can read further down. 1) I have developed an itchy scalp since switching to organic shampoo. Usually an acid rinse helps. To remove any chemical buildup that an organic shampoo might not always handle. See answer A. Then change shampoo if the itching continues. See answer B. 2) I have had an itchy scalp and still do after switching to organic hair care products. First do an acid rinse. See answer A. Also try switching to a milder shampoo, preferably an unscented kind. See answer B. 3) I switched to organic shampoo and it doesn’t feel quite clean. My hair feels rough and stiff. This is a classic problem when you have chemical buildup in your hair. An acid rinse is recommended as well as switching to a more foaming shampoo. See answers A and B. 4) I switched to organic shampoo and my hair feels clean and nice, but it gets oily much faster. Is that normal? Hair getting oily quickly is a sign that the scalp is severely dry. The scalp overproduces sebum/oil in an attempt to balance the dryness. So it’s actually a good sign that sebum production is working as it should. When you suddenly switch to mild products, the scalp continues producing the same amount of oil it’s used to. It can take several weeks or even months before the scalp finds balance. Start with a foaming shampoo (see answer B) and wash more often. It’s wise to choose an affordable shampoo at first since you need to wash more often. See answer B. 5) I have damaged my hair by coloring/bleaching with chemical products. It’s impossible to detangle my hair after washing with organic shampoo. It gets better with conditioner, but it’s still a struggle. Choose a shampoo that lathers well (better cleansing power), see answer B. Do hair masks and feel free to use hair oil on the ends, see answer C. Sometimes you need to “fall back” to a conventional shampoo. Choose the cleanest chemical shampoo possible to go back to. Preferably without silicones/mineral oils. Short ingredient lists are usually better than long complicated ones. When it feels good again, try the eco products again. It’s important to slowly get your hair and scalp used to organic products. Then color your hair with natural hair dyes. 6) I have very flyaway hair. It’s thin, so I want something that can reduce frizz without weighing the hair down or making it flat. Feel free to check out the products in our anti-frizz section. 7) I wash with (rhassoul) clay and it worked well at first, but my scalp has started to become dry and itchy and my hair lifeless. Keep in mind that clay is mildly alkaline, so you need to do an acid rinse occasionally to maintain the right pH. See answer A. 8) I wash with rhassoul clay but my hair doesn't feel clean. It feels stiff and dull. Let your clay mixture swell overnight. Wash twice with the clay (just like you would shampoo twice). If none of this helps, try an acid rinse. See answer A. If vinegar rinse doesn’t help either, the clay is too mild for your hair and scalp right now. Then use an organic shampoo instead and try clay again after a while. 9) I wash with rhassoul clay and my hair becomes so dry and frizzy. Try adding a small splash of oil together with water when making your clay mixture. See answer C. Let it stand overnight if possible. The amount of oil depends on how much clay is mixed and how dry your hair is. Increase the amount of oil if your hair still feels dry after washing. Decrease the amount of oil if your hair feels too flat or greasy after washing. If oil doesn’t help (especially if you have thin/fine hair), try a finer clay instead (less drying). Answer A Try an acid rinse, i.e. an apple cider vinegar rinse. Mix 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 3 dl of water. Try increasing the amount of vinegar if the itching doesn’t calm down. If you have a sore scalp, try a lower vinegar concentration as a strong mixture can sting. The vinegar reduces itching, soothes the scalp and balances the pH, relieves dryness and dandruff, and dissolves lime and chemical residues. You can rinse as often as you want. When washing your hair, rinse with the vinegar after you have rinsed out the shampoo. Massage and let it work for a while. Then rinse out with water and finish with conditioner if needed. It’s perfectly fine to rinse even if you have colored hair. Answer B During the transition period from conventional shampoo to organic/natural shampoo, you may need to wash your hair more often at first. That’s why we usually recommend affordable shampoos for beginners. These are very good transition shampoos that lather a lot. Try out which one suits you best: Repair Shampoo from Eco Cosmetics – Lathers well. Volume Shampoo – Lathers well. Logona Nettle Shampoo – Lathers well, slightly milder than Eco Cosmetics. Sante Shine Birch Shampoo – Lathers moderately. Answer C Here is a list of our most popular hair oils: Argan oil – a well-known hair oil that helps dry, damaged, and brittle hair. Jojoba oil – fine hair oil for dry, damaged, and brittle hair. Camellia oil – makes hair shiny and soft without looking oily. Perfect for the ends. Really Good Hair Oil – wonderful hair oil with beneficial herbs and jasmine scent. Suitable for hair masks. Apricot kernel oil – an excellent fragrance-free hair oil suitable for everyone. Melon oil – a popular hair oil that doesn’t get too greasy and has a neutral scent. Perfect for the ends. Castor oil – a rich oil that repairs split ends and stimulates hair growth. Avocado oil – a good oil for dry scalp and dandruff. Suitable for hair masks. Coconut oil – a moisturizing oil that gives "the wet look" or is suitable for hair masks. Sesame oil – a nourishing hair oil that stimulates the hair follicles in the scalp and provides moisture.
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Oil Cleansing Method (OCM): Natural Facial Cleansing
OCM stands for Oil Cleansing Method, a popular oil-based facial cleansing treatment. OCM is a safe, non-invasive, and beneficial skincare ritual suitable for all skin types. In this article, you can read about which oils are suitable and how to do it. Benefits of OCM It is an economical way to wash your face. It is mild and non-drying. It is deeply cleansing and provides gentle exfoliation. It dissolves dirt and stubborn makeup. It minimizes skin pores. It reduces sebum secretion and restores lipid balance. It solves many skin problems and gives the skin a glow. Can you really wash your face with oil? Washing with oil originated in the dry countries of antiquity where the skin required special care. Oil cleansing was later introduced in Central and Southern Europe by nomadic Romani women who emigrated. It’s no more complicated than fat dissolving fat and thus dirt. It’s an effective method to cleanse and gently exfoliate the skin. You don’t use large amounts of oil; a little oil goes a long way. Unlike drying, conventional cleansing products that foam and can cause various skin problems over time, oil cleanses without irritating or drying out the skin. If you feel it doesn’t get clean without foam, it’s just a habit you quickly get past. An oil massage followed by a warm towel is very cleansing and soothing. Which oils are suitable for OCM? There are single-ingredient oils; so-called "all around" oils or ready-made cleansing oils, ranging from simple to advanced oil blends. Of course, you can also mix your own blend. Cleanse with a type of oil The best is to choose a richer type of oil such as: Almond oil – Suitable for dry, sensitive skin. Avocado oil – Suitable for dry, lifeless skin. Coconut oil – Suitable for normal, dry skin. Melon seed oil – Suitable for all skin types, especially oily and blemished skin. It can also work with less fatty oils such as: Evening primrose oil – Suitable for normal to oily skin as well as problem skin. Jojoba oil – Suitable for all skin types, especially oily and blemished skin. Castor oil – Is a super fatty and sticky oil and cannot be used alone, but can be diluted with other oils. Castor oil is good at drawing out impurities and many with oily and blemished skin like it. How to do it? Simple cleansing Massage in either an oil or an oil blend (see below). Always choose cold-pressed organic oils or an organic oil blend. Wash off the oil and dirt with a damp face towel or an organic washcloth or homemade soft cotton rags. As mentioned, you can easily remove the oil with a damp terry cloth face towel or with our lovely organic washcloths. The advantage is that you also exfoliate the skin at the same time, and you can wash and reuse them again and again. The downside is that you need quite a few and they need to be washed frequently. If you don’t wear makeup, you can wipe off the oil with cotton. If you want to avoid the washing work, you can alternate by removing the oil with loose rhassoul clay (or another clay). Sprinkle a little clay in your hand, add a few drops of water, and wash off the oil with the clay. Rhassoul clay doesn’t scrub, so to get that effect you can use a konjac sponge. This is not a “real” OCM wash but can be tried. Soak the sponge in water and squeeze out the excess water. Gently massage your face in circular motions either with a natural sponge or add a dollop of any natural cleansing product onto the sponge. Rinse the sponge after use and gently squeeze out the water with both hands. Let air dry. More complex cleansing Moisten your face with either lukewarm water or an herbal distillate. Drop the oil onto clean hands and warm it up. Distribute and gently massage the oil onto your face. Continue massaging the most problematic skin areas, such as dry skin. Take a clean washcloth or soft towel and dampen it in warm water. Make sure the water isn’t too hot, especially if your capillaries are weak. Apply the washcloth to your face, leave it for a moment, then gently start wiping away the oil. Repeat the procedure twice. Continue removing oil until you notice the towel is completely clean, meaning it no longer picks up impurities and makeup from your face. Remember to dampen the washcloth with water each time. Finally, dampen the washcloth with cooler water and place it on your face to help your pores close. If your skin feels extra thirsty, use a cream. You can also add a drop or two of a serum. Cleanse with Best Skin Ever We have lovely, pre-mixed oils from our beloved brand Living Libations, which created Best Skin Ever. With this oil, water, and a soft cloth, you’ll get far. 1. Wet a small part of a soft cloth with lukewarm water.2. Apply one to two squirts of any of the Best Skin Evers onto the damp part of the face cloth.3. Gently massage your face, neck, and throat with the damp cloth. Wash gently or pull more firmly for a deeper exfoliating effect. Rinsing the face is optional. If you rinse with colder water, it helps your pores close.4. If your skin feels extra thirsty, use a cream. You can also add a drop or two of a serum. Keep in mind The washcloth you use for OCM must always be thoroughly cleaned after each use. Make sure the water you use for OCM is neither too hot nor too cold. Do not rub the towel against your face too hard, as it can cause irritation.
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5 ways to avoid dry skin during winter
During the cold winter, many people experience really flaky and dry skin. Skin problems can be persistent and cause issues. To avoid this, it is important to understand why the skin reacts the way it does. Why the skin becomes dry during winter When the skin is exposed to cold, its production of the natural skin oils that protect it decreases. When we move between a cold climate outside and a heated environment inside, the skin can react by becoming dry and flaky. It is the lower humidity both outdoors and indoors that causes the skin to dry out. Most facial creams contain water, which can freeze on the skin when you are outside, potentially damaging and drying it out further. It can even cause pain when the wind blows strongly. The wind has a certain cooling effect. If it blows at 5 m/s at 0°C, it feels like -5°C. So even if it’s not below freezing, it’s best not to apply water to the skin. How to prevent and protect your skin from the cold Use water-free products during the day, such as a facial oil or a water-free cream, as external protection against cold and wind. Feel free to check out our protective weather creams that are water-free. All of them are excellent to wear under makeup. Just let your oil or weather cream absorb into the skin for a minute first. Switch from liquid foundation to a water-free foundation, such as a cream powder or mineral powder. Remember lip balm. Moisturize your skin thoroughly in the evening with a serum and preferably a facial cream. How to restore your skin if it has become dry from the cold weather Then you can add as much moisture as possible in the evening. Use serum – serum is a deeply penetrating moisture booster with active ingredients that are quickly absorbed by the skin. It has smaller molecules than a cream and can therefore penetrate deeper into the skin. Apply serum before your facial cream or facial oil. Use a richer facial cream in winter than in summer to lock in moisture and build up the skin’s protective barrier. Apply a slightly thicker layer of cream in the evening and let it absorb overnight, or choose a cream from the protective weather creams. If your skin tolerates exfoliation, do it regularly, 1-2 times a week. Exfoliating removes dry and dead skin cells so they don’t block the moisture you apply. This is especially important if you have dry and/or flaky skin that doesn’t improve even in spring. You can also apply a moisturizing face mask, preferably right after exfoliating. Then the skin is thoroughly cleansed, free from dead skin cells, and can absorb the moisture and care the mask provides. The same applies to the body. Exfoliate regularly and then massage in a body lotion or oil on slightly damp skin after each wash. We wish you a well-moisturized, wintry winter.
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Rasul clay for natural skin and hair care at home
It’s easy to make your own nourishing facial masks and hair treatments at home with just a few ingredients. We love rhassoul clay, which suits all skin types; even sensitive ones. Clay can be used as a gentle soap for both body and hair as well as a cleansing mask. It makes the skin smooth and soft and the hair shiny and healthy. Plus, it’s an affordable product. What is Rhassoul clay? Rhassoul clay is a special type of clay that has been used since ancient times for cleansing skin, hair, and scalp. Rhassoul (also called ghassoul, rhassoul, rassoul) is a type of clay formed during the Tertiary period and is mined from underground shafts in a valley near the Atlas Mountains, 150-200 km from the city of Fès. Here are the only known clay deposits in the world. Rhassoul clay belongs to smectite, a group of clay minerals characterized by swelling when in contact with water. After the clay is transported from the mines, it is first washed with water and spread out on large flat surfaces to dry in the sun. Once dried, it is broken into pieces or ground into powder. Mineralogical and chemical tests are regularly conducted to guarantee consistent quality that meets the Moroccan government’s standards. The clay contains no microorganisms. The clay is locally called Ghassoul, which comes from the Arabic “rassala” meaning to wash. Today, rhassoul clay plays an essential role in the ritual of the Turkish bath (Hamam). In Morocco and Tunisia, the clay is sold in its natural state and the recipes for how to prepare it are passed down from mother to daughter. Rhassoul clay – a multi-purpose product Clay is a multi-purpose product that can be used: as a facial mask. as a body scrub. instead of shower gel. instead of shampoo. as a hair treatment. Clay absorbs oil and dirt, reduces dandruff, and gives hair volume. Rhassoul clay is usually mixed with hydrosols (see more below). It gently cleanses and has a unique cleansing effect that absorbs oil from the skin without damaging the skin’s natural protective oil layer. At the same time, the clay has a naturally good pH value of pH 6. Facial mask with rhassoul clay The great thing about making your own mask is that you know exactly what’s in it and you avoid synthetic additives. It’s fun to experiment until you find a mask you like. We have chosen a super simple mask with two base ingredients. You can then let your imagination run wild and add more ingredients you like. It is preferably mixed with a hydrosol, which acts like a gentle facial toner. Clay and hydrosols go well together! 2 teaspoons of rhassoul clay. Pure water or an organic hydrosol suitable for your skin type. See examples below. Add hydrosol or water to the powder in a bowl and stir until it becomes a smooth paste. If you find the mask too thick, just add more liquid. If you want to boost your mask with superfoods, you can mix 1 tsp Rasullera clay and 1 tsp spirulina powder or chlorella powder. The mask should be wet enough so that a fairly thick layer can work on the skin for about 5 minutes before it dries. Then rinse your face with lukewarm water and apply your preferred face cream. Instead of Rasullera clay, you can also choose: Clay that suits normal to dry skin. Green clay that suits blemished, combination, and congested skin. What is a hydrolat? Hydrolats are a byproduct of distilling herbs and flowers when producing essential oils. Hydrolats are also called flower water or herbal water. They prepare the skin for a cream as they have a mildly astringent and cooling effect on the skin. Each hydrolat has its unique properties and effects on the skin. Which hydrolat suits which skin type? Rose water suits normal, dry, sensitive, and mature skin. Neroli / Orange blossom suits sensitive and mature skin. This plant suits irritated skin, problem skin, and oily skin. Tea Tree suits oilier problem skin prone to acne. Lavender water suits most skin types. Suitable for dry, sensitive, and red skin as well as skin with rosacea. Chamomile water suits dry, itchy, sensitive skin. Water-based sage infusion suits oily and blemished skin. Body wash with Rasullera clay Clay is easy to use as a body "soap." Mix clay with water to the desired consistency, about equal parts water and clay. Use as a washing clay instead of soap. Hair wash with Rasullera clay Mix clay with water until the consistency is like thick yogurt. Let the clay swell for at least 15 minutes. The trick for clean, shiny, and soft hair is to let the mixture sit for 15 minutes or longer until the clay particles “soften” and a gel-like consistency is achieved. Feel free to add a couple of drops of oil if you have a dry scalp or dry hair. Wet your hair and rub some clay between your hands, then gently massage into hair and scalp. Don’t rub hard as that can damage your hair. You’ll be surprised how clean, smooth, and soft your hair becomes. Rinse out and repeat if needed. The best part is that you don’t need to wash your hair very often as it stays clean for a long time. Conditioner may be needed at first but usually isn’t necessary after a while, though it also depends on how long your hair is. Many like to rinse with an acidic rinse afterwards. Any leftover clay can be saved in a clean jar with a lid and lasts about 7 days. Your hair, scalp, and the environment will thank you. Hair treatment with Rasullera clay Do the same as when using the shampoo above. Add a few drops of hair oil to dry hair. Let it work in hair and scalp for 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Please take a look at our clay wash category. Do you have tips on how to use clay at home? Feel free to share in a comment or ask a question and we will answer!
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Weleda's Skin Food - Natural skincare for dry skin
Weleda's award-winning, best-selling Skin Food series has several variants and is very good for normal to dry skin. SKIN FOOD ORIGINAL Skin Food is an award-winning universal cream with a unique blend of natural herbal extracts and plant oils. One of Weleda's oldest and best-selling products and a "must-have" item. The cream provides intensive care for dry skin. It helps the skin strengthen and rebuild its protective barrier while softening and nourishing the skin. It is an all-purpose cream that can be used all over the body. SKIN FOOD LIGHT Skin Food Light is a lighter version of Skin Food. A cream that is thinner in its formulation than the original. It absorbs immediately into the skin and prevents moisture loss. The cream then stays on the skin, protecting it without feeling sticky. Skin Food Light leaves a matte finish on the skin. This lotion has a lovely scent of fresh orange and citrus balanced with calming lavender. The scent does not linger long. Comparison: If you find Skin Food too sticky during the day on, for example, hands and face, Light is the right choice. Skin Food, on the other hand, is preferable for cracks and wounds on the skin that won’t heal. SKIN FOOD BODY BUTTER Skin Food Body Butter is a wonderfully creamy body butter that gives dry skin intensive moisture and care. This body butter is not like whipped shea butter. The texture is fine, more nourishing, and smooth. It neither feels sticky nor oily, just as we want a body butter to be. The skin immediately becomes soft, gains a beautiful glow with a mild and delicious scent of orange and lavender. The scent does not linger long and almost feels fragrance-free after a while. Sensitive noses may detect a faint scent of cocoa and orange. Skin Food Body Butter is free from beeswax and lanolin and is therefore vegan-friendly. Comparison: For those who like to mix a dollop of Skin Food into their body lotion, this body butter is a dream. It gives a beautiful glow to the whole body. Can be used on the face as a day or night cream if very dry. Since Skin Food contains lanolin and zinc, it is better suited for cracked skin. Body Butter is a luxurious experience for really dry skin. SKIN FOOD LIP BALM Skin Food Lip Balm is a creamy lip balm that cares for and adds shine to dry, cracked, and chapped lips. It nourishes the lips, protects them from drying out, and makes them soft and supple again. This is largely thanks to the lanolin. Skin Food Lip Balm is easy to apply and feels comfortable on the lips all day without a sticky feeling! The texture is silky smooth and the lips feel luxuriously soft immediately. This lip balm is free from castor oil. Comparison: Lip balm does not leave a white film like Skin Food does. Those who like Skin Food on their lips will love this lip version. Keep in mind that Lip Balm is zinc-free. Therefore, Skin Food is preferable for cold sores and similar conditions.
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Akamuti's anhydrous skincare: 3 products for winter
We gladly recommend Akamuti’s wonderful products during the winter months, especially their water-free face creams.Many face creams contain a lot of water, and when you are out in biting cold, it can freeze on the skin, which can damage and further dry it out. A water-free cream therefore provides extra protection when spending time outdoors but is also a concentrated and cost-effective skincare option. Akamuti Day Cream Akamuti’s day cream is suitable for dry and/or mature skin. A cream for those who feel their skin has lost its elasticity, looks lifeless, and has lost its glow. Mild apricot kernel oil combined with active evening primrose and raspberry seed oils work together to nourish, care for, and protect the skin. Apricot kernel oil is the base oil in the cream, helping the skin retain its moisture balance and making it soft and supple. Evening primrose oil prevents the skin’s aging process, making it a good anti-aging oil. Raspberry seed oil strengthens the skin, protects against free radicals, and is said to offer some protection against UVA and UVB rays. Essential oils of rose and geranium give the cream moisturizing and soothing properties and a gentle floral scent. Akamuti Night Cream Akamuti’s night cream is richer and more nourishing than the day cream and is suitable for very dry, mature, and sensitive skin. A cream for very thirsty skin that needs extra care. Nutrient-rich avocado and olive oils work together with hazelnut oil to provide the skin with maximum nourishment, care, and a healthy glow. Soothing chamomile and cell-stimulating frankincense give the skin extra care and give the cream a lovely scent. Organic Shea Butter Shea butter is a multifunctional product filled with “good stuff” for the skin. It is moisturizing, nourishing, softening, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Akamuti’s organic shea butter is produced by women’s cooperatives in Ghana. It is a wonderful creamy butter rich in vitamins A, E, and F, unrefined, unbleached, and made using traditional craftsmanship techniques that have been used for thousands of years. A product for extra dry areas of the body and cracked skin or as a lovely body butter that you slowly massage into damp skin. Tips When massaging in a water-free product, it is important that the skin is slightly damp so it can absorb the cream. If you apply it directly to dry skin, it will just sit on top, similar to when you try to water a dried-out plant. Therefore, lightly moisten the skin or your hands and then massage in the cream. What Akamuti stands for Akamuti means “little tree” or “a small piece of medicine” in the Bemba languages of Zambia. In Africa, trees and medicine go hand in hand as ingredients from trees are believed to have healing powers. All of Akamuti’s products are completely handmade and produced in small batches. They operate from a fair trade perspective when sourcing raw materials, as fair prices protect both people and the environment. They aim to promote sustainability from start to finish and are completely against all forms of animal testing. We are very grateful to be able to offer their wonderful products to you.
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Create your own home spa with simple DIY recipes
It's easy to create a cozy spa feeling at home. It doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. Take care of yourself and enjoy a wonderful moment at home. Light some candles, play some relaxing music or an audiobook, and pamper yourself. In less than an hour, you will have given your body and mind relaxation and care. Here we share our best tips for your home spa! SPA Bath Bathing has several beneficial effects. During a 20-minute bath, blood circulation is stimulated, muscles relax, and the pores in the skin open to absorb nourishing substances. Another positive effect of bathing is the release of the calming hormone oxytocin, which makes us feel good. Adding bath salt, essential oil, or herbs can enhance the effects and help the body and mind relax and unwind. Recipe: DIY Bath Salt You can easily make your own DIY bath salt at home by mixing just two ingredients. Ingredients: 1 dl coarse salt about 10 drops of essential oil Stir the ingredients in a bowl, then pour the entire mixture into the bathwater and let it dissolve. Choose an essential oil Lavender and orange are relaxing, clary sage and lemongrass are good for muscle fatigue, rosemary is stimulating, eucalyptus and peppermint are good at the onset of a cold. How to do it Lie in the bath, take deep breaths through your nose, and massage your body with the bathwater so it absorbs the salt and essential oil. Remember that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care; add only 8-10 drops to one bath. Don’t forget to enjoy! While you’re in the bath, you can take the opportunity to do a hair treatment and apply a face mask. Finish by moisturizing your entire body with a body oil or body lotion on slightly damp skin. SPA Shower Take a long shower and do a body scrub. A salt scrub removes old skin cells, increases blood circulation, and provides minerals and nutrients to your skin. Buy a ready-made body scrub or make your own. Body scrub works best on warm, slightly damp skin. Shower with warm water, then take a handful of scrub and massage it all over your body. Start with feet, legs, hands, and arms, then the rest of the body. Rinse off. Finish by moisturizing your entire body with a skin oil or body lotion on slightly damp skin. Recipe: DIY Body Scrub Enhance your home spa with your own DIY body scrub. Ingredients: 1 dl Himalayan salt ¾ dl vegetable oil (coconut, almond, jojoba) 20 drops of essential oil (optional) You can also mix your favorite body oil directly with the salt. Take the opportunity to do a hair treatment while scrubbing. SPA Foot Bath If you’re short on time, do a foot bath. It has the same beneficial effects as a bath. 10 minutes in a foot bath relaxes all the small muscles that are strained when you walk and stand. Blood circulation is stimulated, and the skin can absorb salt and essential oil, which have a beneficial effect. Recipe: DIY Foot Salt Ingredients: 1 dl Epsom salt or Himalayan salt 10 drops of essential oil Mix the ingredients in a bowl. Then dissolve 3-4 tablespoons in the foot bath. The rest can be stored in an airtight jar. File your feet and rinse under running water. Finish by moisturizing your feet with a foot cream or why not with shea butter, which is softening and perfect for dry feet. They come in several lovely combinations. If you have very dry feet, moisturize them and then put on a pair of socks and sleep with them on so you wake up with soft, smooth feet. Recipe: DIY Foot Oil Against Fungus If you have problems with athlete’s foot, you can make your own oil blend with antifungal properties. Ingredients: 40 ml vegetable oil such as almond oil or apricot kernel oil 10 ml neem oil 15 drops tea tree 5 drops lemon oil Apply regularly to your feet. The mixture should be used within a few months. We at Glimja wish you a wonderful spa moment!
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Natural toothpaste without chemicals - 10 substances to avoid
It's time to look inside the bathroom cabinet again and read the ingredients. This time it's about toothpaste. The trusty product we have used daily since childhood. What does it really contain, and is it good for us? Our view on toothpaste, as with all other products at Glimja, is that we believe in natural ingredients and avoiding chemicals as much as possible. We do this both for our own sake and for the planet's. Therefore, we have included a list here of common toothpaste ingredients with explanations of why we choose to avoid them. 10 ingredients you should avoid in your toothpaste 1. Fluoride We know fluoride is good against cavities, but we also know that fluoride in larger amounts carries certain health risks. That is why it is especially important to spit out all toothpaste and not swallow it. Do not let children have free access to toothpaste tubes containing fluoride. Always supervise children so they do not swallow the toothpaste after brushing. There are toothpastes without fluoride today. At Glimja, we have chosen to sell only toothpaste without fluoride. Regarding fluoride specifically, it is important to make a personal choice and experiment. The amounts of fluoride in regular toothpaste are not very large, and it is effective against cavities. If you easily get cavities, there may be other underlying causes, but until you have addressed them, you might need something as strong as fluoride to protect your teeth. Personally, I haven't used fluoride for almost 25 years and my teeth are very healthy according to my dentist. So it is definitely possible to live without it if you feel you want to. 2. Triclosan An antibacterial agent that can break down into dioxin (toxic). It is environmentally harmful, allergenic, suspected to be carcinogenic, bioaccumulative, irritating to skin and lungs, etc. 3. SLS SLS – Sodium lauryl sulfate is a soap agent that makes it foam. It is a general irritant; it irritates the skin. It can also be contaminated with toxic impurities like 1,4-dioxane during production. 4. Titanium dioxide White pigment in the toothpaste. It is a natural mineral that is actually harmless. However, it is rarely specified whether it is in nano size or not. Nanoparticles are relatively new and their health effects are not fully understood. The particles are so small that they remain and spread in the body. They are so small that they can even move up to our brain. If you don't want to read the INCI ingredients, choose a toothpaste that is not white. 5. Parabens A preservative suspected to be carcinogenic and toxic to our organs. There are about 20 different types of parabens. 6. Alumina / Aluminum oxide A thickener (to prevent clumping) suspected to be bioaccumulative and toxic to our organs. Commonly found in liquid “2-in-1” toothpastes. 7. PEG (polyethylene glycol) Solvent, a binder called PEG followed by a number (the number describes the molecule’s length, i.e. structure). Not all variants are equally harmful to health but some may contain traces of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (toxic) and are suspected to be toxic to our organs. I usually skip all PEGs in all body care for simplicity’s sake. 8. Propylene glycol Moisturizing and also used as a preservative. It is associated with irritation and allergic reactions. 9. Cocamidopropyl betaine A surfactant linked to irritation and allergic reactions that may be caused by the ingredient itself or impurities in it, e.g. 3-dimethylaminopropylamine. 10. Cetylpyridinium chloride A quaternary ammonium salt associated with irritation and allergic reactions. How to choose a natural fluoride-free toothpaste Natural toothpaste without synthetic additives and chemicals comes in several different forms and flavors. Basically, it’s a matter of taste which one you like and feel cleans your teeth best. There are several basic types of natural toothpaste. Calcium, bicarbonate & salt-based toothpastes This is probably the type of natural toothpaste that comes closest to conventional “regular” toothpastes in texture and taste. Natural calcium and salt along with herbs help to clean and disinfect the mouth effectively. In other words, it can be a good first choice for you who have just decided to quit or reduce fluoride. Logonas Logodent Daily Care is a bestseller with us, it has a good price and tastes of peppermint. Logodent Mineral is a cream-form toothpaste with salt, seaweed extract, myrrh, and a mild peppermint flavor. Desert Essence with tea tree, cinnamon, neem, clove and mint is a really strong, potent toothpaste loved by many. Desert Essence original toothpaste with tea tree and neem is our bestseller. Neem extract is nature’s own “cleansing miracle.” Another very popular toothpaste is PerioBrite, which is packed with herbs. Weleda’s salt toothpaste cleans well with sea salt, minerals, ratanhia root, myrrh, and chestnut bark. Their toothpaste with Ratanhia root is a classic that many appreciate. Clay-based toothpastes For the more dedicated, there are clay-based toothpastes with bentonite clay as the base. They don’t foam the same way and provide a more grounded experience. If you don’t want glycerin in your toothpaste, this is the right choice. Earthpaste Peppermint / Charcoal with clay and activated black charcoal is a hit for many. Earthpaste Spearmint, which contains clay, tea tree oil, mint oil, and menthol, is very popular because it is free from sweeteners. Powder toothpaste Powder toothpaste, or tooth powder as it is also called, is usually based on dried bentonite clay and/or baking soda with added herbs and/or essential oils. It’s a slightly different way to brush your teeth that gives a surprisingly clean and “well-polished” feeling. They are also very affordable because they last much longer. Additionally, it is much easier to use up the entire jar than it is to get all the toothpaste out of a tube. Earthpowder Peppermint contains only 5 ingredients: bentonite clay, xylitol, sea salt, peppermint, and menthol. Earthpowder Licorice / Charcoal has 6 ingredients: bentonite clay, xylitol, sea salt, activated charcoal, anise, and fennel oil. Toothpaste Tooth powders are specially designed to replace regular toothpaste. They contain few ingredients that are easy to understand, such as coconut oil, baking soda, various high-quality essential oils, saponified olive oil, and kaolin clay. Living Libations Neem contains only six ingredients: coconut oil, neem oil, cinnamon, saponified olive oil, baking soda, and kaolin clay. Living Libations Frankinsense with coconut oil, baking soda, various high-quality essential oils, saponified olive oil, and kaolin clay. Living Libations Triple + Mint contains, among other things, coconut oil, saponified olive oil, baking soda, calcium phosphate, and three different types of mint. Liquid oral care with essential oils Living Libations liquid oral care with essential oils is a natural and unique way to take care of your teeth. You apply a drop on a dry toothbrush and brush. Yogi Serum contains a mix of essential oils from neem, clove, mastic, cardamom, peppermint, and cayenne. It’s a real powerhouse. Only for yogis who like neem. Happy Gum Drops contains pure essential oils of tea tree, peppermint, cinnamon, rose, clove, oregano, and thyme in a base of sea buckthorn oil. Ozonated Happy Gumgel contains ozonated olive oil blended with sea buckthorn oil, oregano, cinnamon, rose, sweet thyme, clove, tea tree, and peppermint. All of these support oral health in different ways and provide fresh breath. Dental floss is important! Don’t forget to use dental floss and scrape your tongue! It can be just as important for thoroughly cleaning your entire mouth every day. Which toothpaste should you choose? Since all our toothpastes meet our high standard of natural ingredients, you can freely choose among them without worrying about the contents. If you want help finding a favorite that suits your specific needs, you can always ask our product experts—just email us. Environmental and wallet-friendly tips Finally, I want to give you a little tip that’s good for both your wallet and the environment. Even if you’ve squeezed out the last bit with all your might, there’s often a lot of toothpaste left inside the tube. Cut open the toothpaste tube! It will last for many more days. Don’t forget to use the top part of the tube as a cap, otherwise the toothpaste dries out quickly.
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Gentle skincare for sensitive baby skin
What is common sense for baby skin? We will clarify that here. Newborns have much thinner and more sensitive skin than older children and adults. Their immune system is still developing, so they require extra care. In theory, you want to protect them from everything harmful in our environment, but in practice, it’s not that easy. Here are some points that are relatively simple to implement or at least worth considering. Choose fragrance-free Fragrances can cause allergies and may also contribute to the development of eczema. If you as a parent are allergic or have sensitive skin, you should be extra careful. Switch to fragrance-free detergent. Babies probably smell nice enough anyway. Skip fabric softener completely. If you want to use ready-made wet wipes (instead of water + oil on a washcloth), it’s good to choose an organic variety without unnecessary additives like fragrances. Natracare has good organic wet wipes enriched with organic oils from apricot, linden, and chamomile. These are especially useful when traveling or where clean water is not available. Choose fragrance-free diapers. Choose unscented skincare products without synthetic fragrance. Hygiene & Skincare Products Babies and small children don’t need to bathe every day. They don’t sweat much and don’t get very dirty either. Of course, you should take care of intimate hygiene daily and rinse off any spit-up, but making daily baths a habit washes away natural skin oils and dries out the skin. Do not routinely use shampoo or shower gel. Oil and water work very well for a long time on little ones. Bubble baths or foam baths are quite unnecessary for babies. Only older children benefit from foam baths. Keep in mind that anything that foams a lot can dry out the skin. Water + oil is the ultimate for newborns. Mild skin irritations or light eczema can often be treated by persistently applying creams or oils. If you have a well-functioning oil, you can mix it with a baby lotion or cream for extra moisture. Feel free to try our "7 natural tips that soothe eczema on baby & child skin" before considering hydrocortisone, which can thin the skin. 5. A little tip against itching is potato starch. It may sound a bit strange, but it’s super effective. It keeps the skin dry and the best part is that potato starch immediately soothes itching, especially in the diaper area. Replace talcum powder and dare to try potato starch! It’s completely natural, inexpensive, and good. 6. The best oils we can recommend for baby skin are jojoba oil, almond oil, and sesame oil. Very few people react to these oils. Use them to moisturize the skin as well as for washing and bathing. Remember that the skin should be slightly damp when you apply the oil. Children’s Clothing It’s easy to believe that clothes for babies and children are always free from toxins. But that’s not the case. They can contain residues of pesticides used on cotton plantations and are dyed with dyes/bleaches and have added chemicals to fix the color. Some clothes are also “preserved” to keep pests away during storage and transport. A better alternative to conventional children’s clothes without organic certification is to buy secondhand or organic clothes (GOTS). If you are going to buy new (non-organic) clothes, keep this in mind: Avoid black clothes entirely for babies and children. Black dyes are especially allergenic and toxic. Choose solid-colored and naturally colored garments as much as possible, especially those that will be close to the skin. Wash clothes at least twice before use. Use a fragrance-free and natural detergent. Skip fabric softener. Avoid plastic-like fabrics that feel sticky. They may be made of PVC, which contains vinyl chloride, a carcinogen, and phthalates that can harm the child’s reproductive ability. Buy outerwear with PFAS-free membranes and impregnation.
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Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare: Benefits for All Skin Types
If you’re interested in skincare, you’ve probably heard of hyaluronic acid. But you might not be sure how to use it, if it’s right for you, or how to fit it into your skincare routine. In this article written by Zainab Danjuma at Evolve Organic Beauty (one of our favorite brands here at Glimja), Evolve’s founder Laura Rudoe answers all questions about hyaluronic acid and explains how to best benefit from this amazing molecule on your skin. What is hyaluronic acid? You might think hyaluronic acid is one of the skincare acids people talk about; like BHA, AHA, and glycolic acid, which exfoliate and increase cell turnover. But it is not. Although hyaluronic acid plumps your skin and makes it look beautifully “glowing,” it does so in a completely different way. It is actually not an “acid” at all. Hyaluronic acid is instead a sugar-based gel-type molecule that can hold an enormous amount of water – up to 1000 times its own weight, to be exact. It is a moisturizing agent (an ingredient that draws moisture from the air around to the skin). This makes it perfect for hydrating the skin. Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is actually a very gentle ingredient, suitable for everyone, even people with sensitive skin. Where is hyaluronic acid found? One of the things that makes hyaluronic acid so effective in skincare is that it is naturally produced by the body. It is found in skin, tendons, and blood vessels. About 50% of the hyaluronic acid naturally found in the body is in the skin, where it works to speed up tissue repair by increasing cell metabolism and forming a gel-like layer around the cells. However, as we age, the amount stored in our bodies decreases – by age 50, it’s possible that the body’s hyaluronic acid reserves have dropped by 50%. This is one of the reasons why our skin tends to become drier and duller as we get older, since new skin cells are not produced as quickly. Because of this, we look for external sources of hyaluronic acid to “replenish” our natural reserves. Moreover, you don’t have to wait until you see signs of aging to get started; hyaluronic acid is excellent for skin at any age. What are the main benefits of hyaluronic acid? It is scientifically proven that using hyaluronic acid topically, as a serum or cream, helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But hydration is not the only benefit this wonderful molecule provides. Hyaluronic acid can help protect the skin against UVB radiation, which in turn prevents sun spots, wrinkles, and skin damage. Evolve Organic Beauty uses two different types of hyaluronic acid in their products – low and very low molecular weight. While low molecular weight is more than enough for hydration, very low molecular weight penetrates even deeper into the skin layers and is even more effective for pro-aging. It not only forms a protective layer on the skin but also fights free radicals caused by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This means free radicals don’t get a chance to attack your skin, leaving it calmer, clearer, and with fewer imperfections. It is from this knowledge that Laura Rudoe created her favorite product; Daily Defence Moisture Mist. Evolve has designed it so it can be sprayed onto the skin, delivering a dose of protective ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, that makes the skin look refreshed and radiant. Keep it in the fridge for the perfect hydration boost on warm days. It is also good for protecting against the effects of external pollutants, which can cause signs of premature aging. Another big favorite is Evolve Organic Beauty's 360 Eye and Lip Contour, which is a nourishing eye and lip cream. It has an advanced formulation including low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that helps reduce wrinkles and dark circles. Hyaluronic acid is a moisturizer, not a moisturizing cream. Hyaluronic acid does not retain moisture in the skin. Imagine your skin as a sponge. If you fill it with water, it becomes plump and spongy. However, if you let it dry out, it will soon return to being dry. Hyaluronic acid basically works like the water in a sponge; it fills and draws moisture from the air. Hyaluronic acid thus helps to add moisture to the skin and helps the skin become more hydrated. On the other hand, it does not help the skin retain moisture. For that, you can complement with face creams, serums, and oils. If you stop using hyaluronic acid, you will therefore stop seeing the benefits. How does hyaluronic acid work in skincare? Many hyaluronic acid molecules are too large to penetrate the skin's surface. However, this is not a bad thing. The acid creates a protective film that improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Evolve Organic Beauty's Hyaluronic Serum 200 is, however, somewhat different; the lower molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid Evolve uses means it can penetrate deeper into the skin, which in turn allows the skin to be hydrated even more effectively. It also supports the skin's collagen production, which helps keep the skin elastic and firm, giving a more youthful appearance. Doctors and dermatologists often use hyaluronic acid as a biodegradable filler because of how harmoniously it works with the body's natural functions. They usually apply it to cheeks, lips, and under the eyes to reduce signs of aging, but you don’t need injections to enjoy its benefits. Which skin type benefits the most from hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid suits all skin types and everyone benefits from it. Can those with oily skin use hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid does not oversaturate oily skin because it regulates how much moisture the skin needs. It can actually reduce excess oil production by rebalancing the skin’s moisture needs. Hyaluronic acid also has natural soothing properties, so if you suffer from breakouts or redness, it will calm your skin while hydrating it. Evolve Organic Beauty's True Balance Gel Cream is designed for oily and breakout-prone skin and uses hyaluronic acid to provide a dose of non-greasy hydration, while the other ingredients work to balance oil production and keep the skin calm. Is hyaluronic acid safe for sensitive skin and skin with eczema? Yes, sensitive skin and people with conditions like eczema and rosacea can use hyaluronic acid without worrying about reactions. A recent study actually found that when combined with proteoglycan and collagen, it helps restore the skin’s surface and reduce itching and sensitivity. Is hyaluronic acid good for dry skin? Absolutely. In a 2014 study, participants used topical hyaluronic acid in various forms, including lotion, serum, and cream. The study results showed an increase in skin hydration of up to 96% after 8 weeks of use across the different types, regardless of the delivery method. It helps the skin retain moisture and can even reduce inflammation and tenderness by supporting the skin’s natural healing process (reducing skin cracks caused by dryness), as shown in a 2016 study. Is hyaluronic acid effective for aging skin? As you age, you lose elasticity and definition in the skin. The skin becomes less smooth, the texture coarser, and fine lines become more prominent. Firstly, regular use of a good hyaluronic acid serum helps protect the skin against free radicals and pollution, reducing early signs of aging. Studies have also shown that hyaluronic acid serums can help reduce skin unevenness and increase skin elasticity, effectively turning back the clock. This effect is significant, although not permanent. In another 2014 study, participants applied hyaluronic acid topically twice daily for eight weeks. It showed a 40% reduction in wrinkle depth and up to a 55% increase in skin firmness and elasticity compared to participants who did not apply the acid. How do I use hyaluronic acid in my daily routine? It depends on which skincare products you use. Moisturizer and serum are two of the most common forms of hyaluronic acid. Moisturizer Use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid at least twice a day, morning and evening, always after cleansing, exfoliating, or applying serum. Here you can find Evolve Organic Beauty's Daily Renew Facial Cream and Evolve Organic Beauty's Multi Peptide 360 Anti-Ageing Cream, both fantastic facial creams with hyaluronic acid plus much more. Serum A hyaluronic acid serum is best used after cleansing. Before drying your face, pat a few drops in with your palms. Apply a nourishing moisturizer immediately afterward to lock in all the hydration. Hyaluronic acid works well with most common skincare ingredients, even acid-based ones. Moisturizers and oil-based serums contain oils that help repair the skin's barrier layer, sealing in moisture and preventing it from evaporating. Most people (unless they have very oily skin) need more moisture and oil. The most effective method may be to first use a water-based serum to help it penetrate deeper into the skin, then apply an oil-based serum on top, followed by a facial cream to seal in moisture. How often can I use hyaluronic acid? Evolve recommends applying hyaluronic acid twice a day, morning and evening. When can I see results from using hyaluronic acid? You can see immediate results from your serum or cream, but they will fade. As with most types of skincare, the best results are usually seen within four to six weeks of consistent use. Does my diet affect the production of hyaluronic acid in the body? Since hyaluronic acid is produced by the body, it can be increased by eating certain foods. There is some evidence that starchy root vegetables can boost production, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and Jerusalem artichokes. If you're craving something a bit more refreshing, try a citrus fruit: they contain naringenin, which prevents the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the body. Fruits high in naringenin include oranges, bananas, grapefruits, and tomatoes. Finally, unsurprisingly, leafy green vegetables top the list. They contain magnesium, which aids the body's production of hyaluronic acid. The article is written by Zainab Danjuma with responses from Laura Rudoe, founder of the brand Evolve Organic Beauty´
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