Health Blog
Health Blog
The right order for your skincare products - step by step
Many people who buy skincare products find it difficult to know in which order to use the products. And skincare has become quite a science nowadays, so it’s not easy to know how to do it right. Maybe you’ve just bought an expensive face cream or serum that you don’t want to waste with the wrong timing? Here is the step-by-step order in which you should use your skincare products! 1. Facial Cleanser Cleanser such as milk/lotion/gel/oil is used first to wash away makeup, dirt, and external impurities from the skin. It removes excess sebum and sweat that can clog pores. Take an appropriate amount of product, massage into the face, neck, and décolleté with circular motions, then rinse off with lukewarm water. For example, oil-based cleansers may need to be wiped off with a towel or cotton before rinsing. 2. Peeling & Scrub 1-2 times a week, depending on skin type, it’s good to do a peeling. The peeling deeply cleanses, removes dead skin cells, and stimulates cell renewal. If using an enzyme peel, apply it to damp skin over the face, neck, and décolleté (avoid the eye area). Then leave it on the skin according to the instructions, generally 5-20 minutes. Enzyme peels can be used on all skin types but are especially recommended for sensitive skin and impure skin with pustules/acne. If using a grain-based peel (mechanical peeling), apply it to damp skin. Then gently massage with circular motions over the face, neck, and décolleté. Avoid the eye area. Afterwards, rinse the peel off with lukewarm water. Mechanical peeling can be used on most skin types, but not if the skin is sensitive or acne-prone with white pustules or cystic acne. The grains in the peel can then irritate the skin and spread acne bacteria. 3. Face Mask 1-2 times a week, depending on skin type, it’s good to apply a face mask. The face mask is applied after cleansing and any peeling. The face mask gives the skin extra nourishment, moisture, and care. It is an intensive treatment for the skin, a great way to deliver a large amount of beneficial ingredients in a short time. Generally, masks are left on for 10-20 minutes, but follow the instructions on the packaging. Some face masks can be left on overnight. Rinse off the mask with lukewarm water and follow up with toner. 4. Toner Toner prepares the skin for care by tightening the pores that opened when you cleansed your face and also acts as a carrier to deliver ingredients in serums and creams deeper into the skin. This removes residues such as chlorine, salts, and minerals found in tap water and balances the skin’s pH level. Spray the toner over the face or sweep a moistened cotton pad over the face and leave the skin damp. 5. Facial Serum Serum should be applied to the skin while it is still damp. Serum provides the skin with extra nourishment, works deeply, and gives an extra boost. Serums can penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver a very high concentration of active ingredients. This makes them excellent anti-aging products. 6. Facial Oil & Face Cream Facial oil and face cream provide care and hydration to the face. They protect the skin and also act as a barrier against air and environmental toxins. A face cream or oil can be used alone or together with serum. Apply the serum first and then the face cream and/or oil. This locks in all the nourishing ingredients and protects the skin. 7. Eye Cream Eye cream/oil/gel is moisturizing, firming, helps reduce puffiness around the eyes, and diminishes dark circles. Apply the product just below the eyebrow and a few centimeters under the eye on the upper cheekbone. It’s important not to apply the product too close to the eye as it can easily cause puffiness and irritation. Gently “pat” the cream into the skin with a finger. Remember that the skin around the eyes is thin and sensitive, so it’s important to use a product specifically designed for that area. The skin around the eyes cannot absorb a product that is too strong, so don’t overdo it, as it can have the opposite effect and irritate the eyes. Have questions or want to share wise tips with the rest of us? Write a comment and we’ll respond!
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Natural deodorant: 3 simple homemade recipes
Around the 1950s, we suddenly became afraid of smelling bad, and deodorant was born. Deodorant removes odor, and antiperspirant prevents sweat from leaving the body. It also blocks our own body scent—the one we subconsciously follow when choosing a partner. We sweat at least 0.5 liters every day, but sweat itself doesn’t smell bad. The odor arises when it mixes with bacteria and starts breaking down certain substances. Why not make your own deodorant? Here are three recipes for simple but effective deodorants you can easily make yourself. And if DIY isn’t for you? Don’t miss my review of 4 natural deodorants here on my blog Morotsliv. Creamy Shea Deodorant This is a recipe for a creamy deodorant with shea butter and jojoba oil. It’s excellent for sensitive skin! Ingredients 0.75 dl cold-pressed organic coconut oil 15 g beeswax 15 g shea butter 15 ml jojoba oil 0.5 dl arrowroot powder 1 tbsp baking soda 10–15 drops essential oil Instructions Melt the fats in a water bath and add the powders. When the mixture reaches about 50 degrees Celsius, add the essential oils. Pour half into a jar, tube, or container and let it cool. It will thicken a bit. Then fill with the rest. Let it solidify completely before you start using it. Shea butter and jojoba oil soften the skin, baking soda is mildly antibacterial and removes bad odor, while cornstarch absorbs moisture. If you have sensitive skin, you can reduce or omit the baking soda. Leave out the essential oils if your skin is extra sensitive and reduce the baking soda. Massage about a pinch into each armpit to avoid greasy stains on your clothes. It’s best to use a spatula instead of fingers to scoop from the jar. This recipe makes about 60 milliliters and lasts at least six months. Witch Hazel Spray Deodorant Witch hazel has soothing, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. It’s also mildly astringent, making this ideal for those who sweat easily and a lot. 0.7 dl witch hazel hydrosol / hamamelis water 20 drops sage 5 drops tea tree oil or another fragrance oil A pinch of salt 0.3 dl distilled water or alcohol Fill a 100 ml spray bottle with witch hazel water, essential oils, and salt. You can also choose other scents, but then switch to ones that are also antibacterial, such as peppermint, oregano, and bergamot. Fill the rest with water, or alcohol for an even more effective deodorant. Keep in mind that alcohol can be drying. For sensitive skin, water is a better choice. Rose Deodorant with Aloe Vera This is probably my personal favorite. Lovely scent of rose and nourishing aloe vera. 70 ml rose water 30 ml aloe vera juice or spray 1 pinch baking soda Optional 10 drops essential oil Mix everything in a 100 ml bottle. Shake before use. This one is incredibly easy to mix up. It’s quick too. Of these three recipes, I would recommend the cream deodorant for dry and sensitive skin, the witch hazel deodorant for heavy sweaters, and the rose deodorant for those who want a luxurious feel. All are mild and suitable for most people, so choose the one that appeals to you the most. Good luck!
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How to get rid of yellow tones in blonde hair
Why does hair turn yellow and what can you do about it? When do you need a purple shampoo and what does it actually do? In this article, we answer all questions about purple shampoo and how you can remove yellow tones without damaging your hair. Table of Contents Why does your hair turn yellow? Lightened Hair Bleached Hair Sun and Bathing Warm and mineral-rich water What can you do to prevent yellow hair? Cool blonde color or toner Protect your hair from sun, heat, and bath water Shower smart Care for your hair before it becomes dry and damaged How do you get rid of yellow tones in hair? Silver shampoo and conditioner* Which Organic Purple Shampoo Is Best?* How Does an Organic Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Work?* What Should I Consider When Using an Organic Purple Shampoo? Go to a skilled hairdresser Care for Your Hair with the Right Products* Intensively Treat the Hair* Moisturize the Hair* Hair Oils Why does your hair turn yellow? To avoid unwanted yellow tones, we first need to clarify why the hair turns yellow. Remember that yellow tones can also affect those with untreated natural blonde hair. Lightened Hair The most common cause of yellow hair is when the hair is bleached. When you bleach hair, the melanin (dark brown to black pigment) oxidizes, which lightens the hair. Since all hair has more or less underlying warm tones, these become more prominent after bleaching. In blonde hair, yellow tones are emphasized (in brown or black hair, orange and red tones are emphasized) when the bleaching has not succeeded in removing all the hair's pigments. Bleached Hair At the hairdresser, a cool blonde shade can be applied after bleaching to counteract or remove any yellow tones. The hair then gets a natural blonde appearance. After a few weeks, the salon blonde shade can slowly fade and yellow tones take over. This is completely natural. Let us explain. Blue is what gives hair cool tones. The blue pigments are very small and are the first to disappear with hair washing and wear. What remains are the warm tones, which in bleached and lightened hair are yellow. Sun and Bathing Unfortunately, sun and swimming can quickly bring out yellow tones in blonde hair. Strong UV rays, salty seawater, and chlorinated pool water damage and dry out your hair more than you think. When the hair is dry, your hair color has a harder time taking hold and staying. Also, the sun bleaches the hair color. The end result is damaged and yellow hair. Warm and mineral-rich water Do you shower with soft or hard water? Is it water from your own well or shared municipal water? Hard water and well water usually contain the most minerals. Minerals can make blonde hair turn yellow. Showering with warm water also damages the hair more and highlights yellow tones in bleached hair. What can you do to prevent yellow hair? Don’t worry, there are a few tricks that can help you avoid yellow tones. Cool blonde color or toner Don’t even think about bleaching your hair further to remove yellow tones. Your hair will definitely be damaged and could, in the worst case, fall out in chunks. Go to a skilled hairdresser who can choose a cool blonde hair color to neutralize the yellow tones. If your hair is already damaged, you can instead choose a toner that is less damaging to the hair. Protect your hair from sun, heat, and bath water Tie up, braid your hair, or protect it with a hat when the sun is strongest. Also, let your hot hairdryer and other styling tools rest on the shelf. A good trick is to wet your hair thoroughly with clean water before swimming in the sea or pool. The hair becomes saturated with clean water and is then less likely to absorb the bath water. Then wash your hair immediately after swimming with mild shampoo and nourishing conditioner. Shower smart If you use hard water or well water at home, you can tie your hair up and shower first before washing it. This way, you reduce the exposure time of your hair to the water. Also, the first (warm) water from the pipes usually contains the most minerals. Preferably wash your hair with cold water. Maybe you can wash your hair at the gym or work instead if the shower water is better there. Installing a shower filter can be an option if the water causes many problems. Care for your hair before it becomes dry and damaged Be proactive and care for your hair regularly. It’s wise to use products like hair masks, moisture sprays, nourishing styling products, and gentle shampoos. Always be quick to trim split ends. How do you get rid of yellow tones in hair? What can you do if you still get yellow hair? Here we share tips on various products that can counteract or remove yellow tones. Silver shampoo and conditioner Using silver shampoo is the perfect choice if you want to tackle yellow hair on your own at home. We at Glimja of course recommend a natural and organic silver shampoo. Which organic silver shampoo is best? Let's get straight to the point. We recommend Bruns no. 24 Blonde Beauty, which gently and effectively reduces yellow tones in the hair and gives it a neutral or cool shade. How does an organic silver shampoo and conditioner work? Bruns Shampoo no. 24, also called organic silver shampoo, is designed to neutralize warm and yellow tones in: blonded or naturally blonde hair bleached hair silvery or gray hair white and light hair The result is instead a cooler shade. Some organic silver shampoos use clays to counteract yellow tones. Bruns Products instead use the plant dye Campeche Logwood (also called bloodwood) in their products, which visibly gives beautiful and cool hues. Even brunettes can get a cooler shade with this shampoo. On black hair, there is no color difference, but you get stronger, more manageable, and fuller hair. Always finish with their Conditioner no. 24, which adds shine, balances oily scalp, and provides moisture without irritating the scalp or weighing down the hair. Note that the plant dye Campeche Logwood is found in both the shampoo and conditioner. However, it is the shampoo that has the greatest effect in gradually reducing yellow tones. What do I need to consider when using an organic silver shampoo? Unlike conventional silver shampoos, Bruns Shampoo (and Conditioner) no. 24: can be used every day if you wish, without damaging hair quality. Remember that water itself dries out the hair. Avoid washing it unnecessarily often. processing time can be extended for better effect, without risking over-treatment or overdosing where the hair gets purple, blue, or green hues (which must be bleached out). can be used even if you already have damaged and dry hair. The products do not discolor the hair or make it dull. On the contrary, the hair gains more shine, strength, and a "more hair feel." Go to a skilled hairdresser If you need help, you can instead go to a skilled hairdresser who can remove the yellow tones for you. Try to find an eco-hairdresser who uses gentle methods and hair products. If your hair is already in poor condition, it is especially important to ask the hairdresser for the gentlest treatments and products possible. If they want to color your worn hair, ask instead for a hair toner. If the hair is already toned from before, it’s just a matter of maintaining the color and it’s time to tone the hair again. Care for Your Hair with the Right Products As we mentioned earlier, your (blonde) hair color (especially the blue pigments) adheres worse to fragile and dry hair. Therefore, it is extra important to keep hair hydrated, soft, and healthy to counteract yellow tones. Intensively Treat Your Hair Have you avoided nourishing hair masks out of fear of greasy and flat hair? Then we have good news! Try Bruns’ fantastic hair mask. This hair mask is a nutrition and moisture bomb for hair and perfect for damaged hair. The product makes hair airy with a beautiful fall. Use the hair mask regularly to give your hair protection and softness. Moisture Boost Your Hair Between hair masks and washes, hair can feel dry, brittle, or frizzy. Then it can be a good idea to give your hair extra moisture. Spray directly on dry or damp hair for an extra moisture boost. Note that these sprays are leave-in products and should not be rinsed out. Bruns Conditioner Spray is perfect for hair that easily tangles or needs shine and softness. Designed for daily use. Conditioner Spray 18 Sparkling Tangerine, 200 ml Are you one of those who love moisture sprays and want to use them constantly without breaking the bank? Then check out Zoya Goes Pretty’s organic rose water, which comes in a full 200 ml! A spray bottle that also works for the face (especially on hot days or when spending a lot of time in front of screens). Organic Rose Water, 200 ml Hair Oils Protect your hair with organic hair oils to withstand daily stressors and wear on your hair. This is especially important if you have medium to long hair. Applying a few drops of hair oil after a moisture spray also helps the moisture stay longer in the hair. Camellia Kissi oil is so amazing on the skin that many forget it works wonders on hair too. It is completely fragrance-free (no seed oil scent), light, and non-greasy. Khadi Ayurvedic Hair Oil Color Care is specially designed for colored hair. The oil protects hair from sun and wear and helps your hair color stay beautiful longer. You might also be interested in these articles: The Ultimate Guide: Dry Hair Repair Extremely Worn and Broken Hair After Bleaching: 10 Simple Steps! The Conditioner Method: Counteract Dry and Damaged Hair
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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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