Sensitive skin can be a real challenge, but choosing the right skincare ingredients can make a big difference.
Many people with sensitive skin prefer to use natural ingredients, as they are often gentler and less likely to cause irritation or breakouts.
Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for soothing and nourishing sensitive skin.
These ingredients can help to hydrate and protect the skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthy and radiant. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, incorporating natural ingredients into your skincare routine can be a great way to achieve a clearer, more even complexion.
In this blog post, you'll learn:
We hope this information helps you make smart, healthy choices when it comes to caring for your sensitive skin.
As always, consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure about the best skincare routine for your skin type, or before making any drastic changes to your skincare routine.
With that said, let's dive in!
Before incorporating any new skincare ingredient into your routine, it's important to understand your skin type and the potential risks of using certain ingredients.
Not all ingredients will work for everyone, so it's crucial to know what your skin needs and what ingredients to avoid.
For example, those with dry skin may benefit from using ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter, while those with oily skin may want to avoid these ingredients as they may clog pores.
It's also important to be aware of any skin sensitivities or allergies you may have. Some natural ingredients, such as essential oils, can be highly concentrated and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
To minimize the risk of skin irritation, it's best to patch-test new ingredients on a small area of skin before using them all over your face.
In general, it's a good idea to seek out products that are labeled as hypoallergenic or dermatologist-tested.
These products are formulated with sensitive skin in mind and have been tested to minimize the risk of skin irritation.
Understanding your skin type and the potential risks of using certain ingredients can help you choose the right natural skincare ingredients for your needs and avoid any negative side effects.
So what exactly is sensitive skin? What makes it different from damaged skin; and what are the biological factors that classify it as "sensitive"?
Sensitive skin is a skin type that is easily irritated or reacts to various skincare products, fragrances, and environmental factors.
People with sensitive skin may experience redness, itching, burning, or stinging sensations when using certain products or exposing their skin to certain stimuli.
Some common characteristics of sensitive skin include:
Some common causes of sensitive skin include:
Believe it or not, anybody can just slap "natural" or "organic" on their skincare products with zero regulation.
This phenomenon, infamously known as "greenwashing," has made it much harder to parse out which products are actually good for sensitive skin, and which are just employing manipulative marketing language.
And the truth is, there are many things found in nature that are actually toxic to the skin. You certainly wouldn't want to rub the oils from a poison ivy plant on your face, right?
Furthermore, your skin can't tell the difference between vitamin C synthesized in a lab and vitamin C sourced from an orange.
That said, it's equally as important to understand which ingredients to avoid as it is to know which ones to incorporate into your skincare routine.
Here are some ingredients -- both natural and "synthetic" -- that you should avoid with sensitive skin:
Now that we've gone over what to avoid, let's spend the rest of this post looking at some incredible healing ingredients found in nature.
If you're like me and you live in a tropical climate (Florida), you've likely had some wicked sunburns in your life.
You know if you've ever spent too much time at the beach that aloe vera is the best (and only) thing that can truly provide relief to a sunburn.
But it's got so many more applications that we're still discovering.
Aloe vera contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that help reduce inflammation in the body and can be used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
Its active components include polysaccharides which are known to provide antioxidant protection against free radicals, helping to reduce redness, swelling, itchy skin, and inflamed skin.
It is also known to promote collagen production which helps support tissue regeneration and skin healing.
In addition, aloe vera also has antiseptic properties that can help ward off bacteria and protect against infection. For these reasons and more, aloe vera is an invaluable tool for reducing inflammation naturally.
Furthermore, aloe vera is one of the best natural moisturizers out there, as it hydrates and locks in moisture without making the skin overly oily.
It also helps reduce wrinkles and signs of aging as it encourages collagen production and supports tissue regeneration.
Here are some helpful tips for incorporating aloe vera into your skincare routine.
First, make sure you're using pure aloe vera gel and not a synthetic version with added fragrances or other irritating ingredients.
Even better, you can buy an aloe vera plant and extract the gel directly from the leaves.
Once you have your aloe vera gel, apply a generous amount to clean, dry skin and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.
You can use this routine twice daily or as needed when your skin is feeling particularly sensitive.
Shea butter is a natural ingredient that is commonly used in skincare products for its moisturizing and soothing properties.
It's derived from the nut of the African shea tree and is rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants.
One of the key benefits of shea butter for sensitive skin is its ability to deeply moisturize and soothe the skin.
Shea butter is a natural emollient, which means it helps to lock in moisture and prevent the skin from becoming dry and irritated.
This makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin who need a gentle, yet effective, moisturizer.
Shea butter is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin that is prone to redness and irritation.
The fatty acids in shea butter help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, while the antioxidants in shea butter help to protect the skin from damaging free radicals.
Overall, shea butter is a gentle, natural ingredient that is a great choice for those with sensitive skin who need a moisturizer that will hydrate and soothe their skin.
By using shea butter in your skincare routine, you can help to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant, even if it is sensitive.
Here are some helpful tips for incorporating shea butter into your skincare routine.
First, make sure you're using pure, natural shea butter and not a synthetic version with added fragrances or other irritating ingredients.
Once you have your shea butter, apply a small amount to clean, dry skin and massage it in until it is fully absorbed.
You can use this routine once or twice a day, depending on how dry your skin is feeling.
Shea butter can also be used as a targeted spot treatment to soothe irritated or inflamed areas of the skin.
Lastly, shea butter can also be added to homemade DIY masks for an extra boost of hydration and nourishment.
By using shea butter regularly, you can help to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy, hydrated, and radiant.
Tea tree oil is a powerful natural ingredient that is commonly used in skincare products for its antimicrobial properties.
This essential oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree plant and is known for its ability to help fight acne and reduce inflammation.
One of the key benefits of tea tree oil for acne-prone skin is its antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil has been shown to be effective against a variety of skin pathogens, including bacteria that can cause acne.
By applying tea tree oil to the skin, you can help to kill the bacteria that are contributing to breakouts, helping to clear up acne and prevent new blemishes from forming.
In addition to its antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil is also known for its ability to reduce inflammation.
This is important for those with acne-prone skin, as inflammation can make breakouts worse and contribute to the formation of scarring.
By reducing inflammation, tea tree oil can help to soothe irritated skin and promote healing.
To use tea tree oil in your skincare routine, it's important to be mindful of the concentration of tea tree oil in the product you are using.
Pure tea tree oil can be quite potent and may cause skin irritation if used in high concentrations.
For best results, look for skincare products that contain tea tree oil as an ingredient, and be sure to patch-test the product before using it all over your face.
Additionally, it's important to be mindful of the other ingredients in the product and to seek out products that are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances.
Lactic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products as a natural exfoliating agent.
This ingredient is derived from milk and is known for its ability to gently remove dead skin cells and improve skin tone and texture.
One of the key benefits of lactic acid for the skin is its exfoliating properties.
Lactic acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be gently removed from the surface of the skin.
This helps to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion.
In addition to its exfoliating properties, lactic acid is also known for its ability to improve skin tone and texture.
This ingredient can help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and age spots.
Additionally, lactic acid has hydrating properties, making it one of the best all-around ingredients for sensitive skin.
To use lactic acid in your skincare routine, it's important to be mindful of the concentration of lactic acid in the product you are using.
High concentrations of lactic acid can be harsh and may cause skin irritation. For best results, look for skincare products that contain lactic acid in a concentration of around 5% or less.
Additionally, it's important to use sunscreen when using products containing lactic acid, as this ingredient can increase sensitivity to the sun.
By incorporating lactic acid into your skincare routine, you can help gently remove dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Colloidal oatmeal is a finely ground form of oatmeal that is commonly used in skincare products to soothe and moisturize irritated skin.
This ingredient is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help to soothe and calm the skin, making it a great option for those with sensitive or inflamed skin.
One of the key benefits of colloidal oatmeal for the skin is its soothing properties.
Colloidal oatmeal has been shown to be effective in reducing itching, redness, and other symptoms associated with eczema, contact dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Additionally, colloidal oatmeal can help to protect the skin's natural barrier, keeping it hydrated and healthy.
In addition to its soothing properties, colloidal oatmeal is also known for its moisturizing properties.
This ingredient can help to hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. Additionally, colloidal oatmeal can help to soothe sunburn and other types of skin irritation, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.
A great way to use colloidal oatmeal is in a bath or as a face mask for a calming and soothing skin treatment.
Here are some more natural remedies, ingredients, and anti-inflammatory compounds to incorporate into your skin care routine.
Jojoba oil is a naturally-occurring plant wax that can be used as a natural alternative to synthetic essential oils.
This ingredient has been used in traditional skincare for centuries and is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and help it retain moisture.
It's also rich in vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants that can help to nourish the skin.
Jojoba oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
This ingredient can be used alone as a moisturizer, or as an additive in lotions, creams, and other skincare products.
Coconut oil is a powerful all-natural moisturizer and one of the best ingredients for sensitive skin.
This ingredient contains fatty acids that can help to nourish and protect the skin's natural barrier, keeping it soft and hydrated.
It also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritation and reduce redness.
Coconut oil can be used alone, or as an additive in lotions, creams, and other skincare products.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful moisturizing ingredient that can help to keep the skin hydrated, supple, and glowing.
This ingredient is naturally found in the body and helps to bind moisture to the skin, leaving it looking more youthful and refreshed.
It's often added to skincare products to help retain moisture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and keep the skin from feeling dry or tight.
However, it's important to note that this ingredient can increase sensitivity to the sun, so be sure to use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when using skincare products with hyaluronic acid.
These are just a few of the natural ingredients that can help to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
Gotu kola is a traditional herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
This ingredient contains compounds that can help to strengthen the skin's tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
It can also help to boost collagen production and improve circulation, helping to keep the skin looking healthy and youthful.
Gotu kola can be used as a topical treatment or taken orally as a supplement to help improve the health of your skin from within.
Natural ingredients can be a great option for those with sensitive skin.
Ingredients like shea butter, tea tree oil, lactic acid, and colloidal oatmeal can provide numerous benefits for the skin, from moisturizing and soothing to exfoliating and fighting acne.
However, it's important to remember that not all natural ingredients are appropriate for all skin types, so it's essential to understand your skin's needs and choose the right ingredients for you.
If you're interested in incorporating natural ingredients into your skincare routine, Aleavia is a great place to start.
Our plant-based skincare line uses all-natural ingredients to boost the probiotics on the surface of your skin, which is healing and good for your skin.
We believe in using only the highest-quality ingredients to give you the best results, so you can trust that our products are safe, effective, and gentle on your skin.
So, if you're looking for a way to nourish and protect your sensitive skin, consider trying Aleavia today.
With our all-natural ingredients and innovative probiotic technology, you can give your skin the care it deserves.
]]>In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using plant-based skincare products and how to incorporate them into your daily routine for healthier skin.
We'll discuss why natural ingredients are better for our skin (using science and data), as well as some tips on choosing the right product for you.
So whether you're curious or skeptical, read on to learn more about why you should consider switching to natural skincare.
Plant-based skincare is a type of skincare that is formulated using natural ingredients derived from plants like herbs, fruits, and flowers.
This "genre" of beauty products is becoming increasingly popular because it offers a natural alternative to chemically-based beauty products.
Not only that, but it often can provide the same benefits to the skin as synthetic skincare products without the adverse side effects and impact on animals and the environment.
Similarly, vegan skincare products, which are made without any animal by-products, are becoming increasingly popular as "cruelty-free" beauty becomes more and more mainstream.
Some of the most popular plant-based ingredients used in skincare products include aloe vera, lavender oil, olive oil, Shea butter, and jojoba oil.
Plant-based products are often full of natural antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that nourish the skin and help to retain its moisture balance. These ingredients can help reduce inflammation, soothe skin irritations, and even reduce signs of aging.
Whether you're looking for a gentle cleanser or an anti-aging serum, you can find plant-based skincare products to meet your needs.
Using plant-based skincare is an excellent way to ensure that the products you're using are safe for both your skin and the environment.
One of the benefits of plant-based skincare is that it is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that can help to improve the overall health of the skin.
Plant-based ingredients such as green tea extract, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots, acne breakouts, and dark circles.
Natural ingredients in plant-based skincare can also help to keep the skin hydrated and improve skin tone, leaving your skin looking and feeling its best.
But is this all just snake oil or a marketing ploy? Not according to the data.
There have been several studies that have shown the benefits of plant-based skincare.
One study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that plant-based ingredients, such as aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, can help to soothe and reduce inflammation in the skin.
Another study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that plant-based ingredients, such as rosehip oil and pomegranate seed oil, can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Additionally, a study published in the NIH found that a skincare regimen containing plant-based ingredients, such as green tea and licorice root, can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improve overall skin tone.
The natural beauty movement is gaining momentum with more and more people looking for plant-based skincare alternatives.
Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the potential harm that traditional skincare products can have on the environment, animals, and their own skin. This has led to a surge in popularity for cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and plant-based skincare products.
As the demand for natural beauty products grows, it's becoming easier to find high-quality, affordable options that are kind to both your skin and the planet.
The future of plant-based skincare looks very promising indeed, with more brands embracing clean formulations and committing to ethical practices.
When it comes to selecting natural skincare products, it's important to understand the different types of ingredients and how they work.
For instance, essential oils are made from plant extracts and can help to improve skin tone and texture, as well as reduce inflammation.
On the other hand, herbs like lavender or chamomile can be used to provide a calming and soothing effect on the skin.
In addition, natural oils like coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil can help to protect your skin's barrier function and keep it hydrated.
Here is a comprehensive list of ingredients often used in natural skincare products:
Green tea extract is a highly sought-after ingredient in plant-based skincare products due to its powerful antioxidant properties.
These antioxidants, known as catechins, help to protect the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors such as UV rays and pollution.
In addition to protecting the skin, green tea extract also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and puffiness, making it an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive skin.
Additionally, green tea extract has been shown to have a positive effect on the skin's ability to retain moisture, leading to a more hydrated and plump appearance.
Overall, green tea extract is a versatile and beneficial ingredient that can be found in many different types of plant-based skincare products.
If you have sensitive skin, it's important to choose natural skincare products that are specifically formulated for your skin type.
Thankfully, most of the ingredients found in nature are gentle and can help to soothe irritated skin. For example, chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and irritation, while aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that helps to keep skin hydrated without clogging pores.
If you have sensitive skin, it's also important to avoid harsh chemicals or fragrances, as they can irritate the skin. Stick to natural and organic products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin.
Finally, don’t forget to keep your skincare routine simple; stick to a few basic steps such as cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.
And always remember to choose products based on your individual skin type.
A natural skincare routine can help keep your skin looking and feeling healthy, hydrated, and refreshed.
Cruelty-free skincare is becoming increasingly important in the eye of the modern consumer.
This is especially true of millennial and Gen Z buyers, who are more likely to research the ingredients and production processes of their skincare products.
For many, this means choosing natural, cruelty-free products over those created with animal testing or containing harsh chemicals.
Cruelty-free skincare means that the products were not tested on animals, either directly or through their ingredients.
Companies that are cruelty-free will often use synthetic versions of animal-derived ingredients rather than testing on living creatures.
Many brands also choose to be vegan-friendly as well, meaning they don’t use any animal-derived ingredients in their products.
Cruelty-free skincare is not only kinder to animals but also to your skin. Natural ingredients are often gentler and less likely to cause irritation or other skin problems.
When looking for cruelty-free skincare products, it's important to read the labels carefully and check for any animal testing symbols.
The Leaping Bunny logo is the most widely recognized symbol that a product has been certified cruelty-free.
We're proud to say that all Aleavia skincare products are, and always will be, cruelty-free.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for healthy skin. It helps to protect against environmental damage, improve skin tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The good news is that many plant-based ingredients are naturally rich in vitamin C.
Berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens are all excellent sources of vitamin C. Alternatively, you can try adding a few drops of vitamin C serum to your regular skincare routine.
Vitamin C is particularly beneficial for skin that has been exposed to the sun. It helps repair damage caused by UV rays and can even reduce the appearance of dark spots.
For best results, incorporate vitamin C into your skincare routine daily. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase over time to get the most out of this powerful antioxidant.
Having an even skin tone is important for a healthy-looking complexion. But it can be difficult to achieve with traditional skincare products, which often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.
The good news is that there are plenty of natural plant-based ingredients you can use to improve your skin tone. Natural oils such as jojoba and almond oil can help to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
You can also try using a natural exfoliant, such as oatmeal or sugar, to gently scrub away dead skin cells and reveal brighter, more radiant skin underneath.
Some plant-based skincare products that may help improve skin tone include:
Once you’ve found a few plant-based skincare products that work for you, it’s time to build a routine.
Here's a step-by-step example of a hypothetical natural skincare routine using plant-based ingredients:
By following this simple routine and using only plant-based products, you can give your skin all the nourishment it needs to look amazing!
Exfoliation is an important part of any skincare routine, as it helps to remove dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and improve overall skin health.
Instead of using a harsh exfoliant or scrub, you can try using natural ingredients such as oatmeal, sugar, or sea salt. All of these ingredients are gentle yet effective, and can be used to scrub away dead skin cells without irritating the skin.
For best results, exfoliate 2-3 times a week using a gentle circular motion. Always follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected from environmental damage.
By adding natural exfoliating ingredients into your skincare routine, you can help to reveal brighter, smoother skin. In addition, regular exfoliation can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you’re looking for plant-based skincare products that are also vegan and cruelty-free, there are plenty of options available.
Many brands now offer vegan skincare lines made with natural, non-toxic ingredients. Look for products that are labeled “vegan” or “cruelty-free”, and check the ingredients list to make sure that none of the ingredients come from animal sources.
Some popular vegan skincare brands include:
Essential fatty acids are an important component of any natural skincare routine. These fatty acids help to maintain the skin’s moisture balance, reduce inflammation, and protect against environmental damage.
Common sources of essential fatty acids include avocado oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and other plant-based oils.
Many brands offer facial oils and serums which are formulated with these fatty acids, making them an easy way to add beneficial fats into your skincare routine.
In general, plant-based ingredients are gentler and more natural than synthetics. However, it is important to keep in mind that not all plant-based ingredients are beneficial for the skin.
Some plant-based ingredients, such as essential oils, can be irritating or sensitizing to some people’s skin.
It is also important to note that just because a product is labeled “plant-based” or “vegan” does not necessarily mean that it is good for your skin. Always read the ingredients list and research any unfamiliar ingredients to make sure they are right for your skin type.
Plant-based skincare products can be just as effective as synthetic products, but offer the added benefits of natural ingredients and fewer potential irritants.
In addition, many plant-based skincare products are vegan and cruelty-free, making them a good option for those seeking ethically made beauty products.
Ultimately, the best skincare routine for you is the one that works best for your skin and lifestyle. By exploring natural ingredients, vegan products, and plant-based oils, you can create a personalized routine that will help your skin look and feel its best.
When looking for plant-based and vegan skincare products, Aleavia is a great option.
With natural, non-toxic ingredients and no animal testing, our products provide gentle yet effective solutions that can help reveal brighter and smoother skin.
In addition to essential fatty acids that help maintain the skin’s moisture balance and reduce inflammation, our products also contain other natural ingredients like aloe vera and green tea for added benefits.
Explore the Aleavia range of vegan skincare today, and find the perfect products for your routine!
]]>Turmeric is an ancient Ayurvedic spice with many health benefits. One of these benefits is its ability to improve skin health.
Turmeric can help to reduce inflammation, acne, and wrinkles. It can also provide protection against sun damage.
If you're looking for a natural way to improve your skin health, consider adding turmeric to your beauty routine.
Read on to learn more about the amazing benefits of this spice for your skin!
Turmeric has been celebrated as a powerful remedy for a variety of ailments due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
In regards to skincare, turmeric can help alleviate redness and reduce swelling from acne or an injury, making it a great choice for those seeking natural solutions for their skin issues.
Furthermore, turmeric is relatively affordable and easy to find at most grocery stores, so you don't have to worry about searching far and wide for the perfect product.
With turmeric’s antioxidant properties and clear healing effects, it's no wonder it has been used by traditional healers throughout history.
If you're looking for an all-natural way to improve the health of your skin, turmeric is one ingredient you might want to consider!
Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries to promote natural remedies and overall health.
And, although it may not be the first thing we think of when it comes to skincare, research has shown that more and more people are utilizing its powers to reduce inflammation in the skin, minimize acne breakouts, and even help diminish dark spots.
Additionally, turmeric can help give skin an even tone by helping to suppress the amount of melanin that is produced by our body.
So if you're looking for a natural remedy for skin brightening, look no further than turmeric!
Turmeric can help to slow down the aging process and reduce visible signs of aging such as wrinkles
Its antioxidant content helps protect skin from free radical damage that can cause wrinkles, age spots, and other forms of skin damage.
Furthermore, turmeric also contains vitamin E which is known for its anti-aging properties.
If you're looking for a natural remedy to combat wrinkles and other signs of aging, turmeric is definitely worth a try.
Turmeric may also protect the skin from sun damage. Studies suggest that turmeric can help to reduce skin damage caused by UV radiation, making it an ideal ingredient for sunscreens and other skincare products.
Furthermore, turmeric is also known to have calming properties that can help soothe the skin after sun exposure.
So if you're looking for a natural way to protect your skin from the sun and soothe it afterward, turmeric is definitely worth looking into.
Turmeric is a powerful tool for fighting the effects of sun damage.
Not only does it have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but it has been found that ingesting turmeric can also help to protect the skin from UV damage.
Studies have shown that when applied topically or taken as a supplement, turmeric helps to lighten skin discolorations, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and act as a natural barrier against the damaging rays of the sun.
By adding this exotic spice to your daily health routine, you can rest easy knowing that your skin is being kept safe and healthy.
As you can see, there are many reasons to add turmeric to your skincare routine.
It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce redness and swelling, as well as being an antiseptic which means it can help heal cuts and wounds.
Now that you know the benefits of turmeric, it's time to learn how to use it in your skincare routine.
The simplest way is to mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a tablespoon of honey or yogurt and apply this mixture directly to the skin for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
You can also add a few drops of lemon juice or rose water to the mixture for an extra boost of brightness.
Another option is to make a turmeric face mask by mixing one teaspoon of turmeric powder with four teaspoons of milk, two tablespoons of honey, and one tablespoon of yogurt.
Apply this paste to your skin for 10 minutes before washing it off with warm water.
For additional benefits, you can add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or rosemary to the mixture.
With regular use, turmeric can help reduce inflammation and give your skin an even tone. So why not give it a try?
The frequency at which you use turmeric in your skincare routine will depend on your individual skin type and preferences.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, it's best to start out slow and use the mixture once a week.
For normal or combination skin types, using the turmeric mask twice a week should be enough to help improve your skin's condition.
For those with oily skin, it is safe to use the mask up to three times a week, although every other day is recommended.
Therefore, it is best to experiment and find what works for you - and always make sure that you follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated!
Turmeric is a powerful ingredient that can be used in many ways to benefit the skin. Give it a try and you just may be surprised at how effective it is!
When looking for turmeric to use in your skincare routine, you should always opt for the highest quality organic turmeric powder.
Organic turmeric is free from chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which means it will provide maximum benefit with minimal risk of irritation or harm to your skin.
In addition, look for a powder that is high in curcumin, which is the active ingredient responsible for turmeric's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Finally, when using turmeric topically or ingesting it as a supplement, make sure to consult with your doctor first to ensure that it won't interfere with any existing medications or health conditions.
While turmeric is a powerful ingredient with many beneficial properties, it is important to remember that it can be potentially irritating or even dangerous if not used correctly.
When applied topically, turmeric can cause stinging, redness, and irritation for those with sensitive skin types.
Additionally, because of its anticoagulant properties, those taking blood thinners should avoid using turmeric.
It is also important to be aware of the potential side effects of ingesting high doses of turmeric, including nausea, stomach pain, and liver damage.
Therefore, it is best to always consult with your doctor before adding turmeric supplements to your daily routine.
As with any skincare product, it is important to use turmeric in moderation and always perform a patch test before applying it directly to your skin.
This will help you determine the best way to incorporate this powerful ingredient into your routine without risking any adverse reactions.
Turmeric is an ancient ingredient with many powerful benefits for skin health.
From reducing inflammation to brightening the complexion, it can be used in a variety of ways to improve the condition of your skin.
When looking for turmeric to use in your skincare routine, always opt for organic and high-quality powder with a high concentration of curcumin.
However, it is important to keep in mind that turmeric can be potentially irritating and even dangerous if used incorrectly, so always perform a patch test before applying it directly to your skin.
Finally, consult with your doctor before adding supplements or ingesting large doses of turmeric to ensure that it won't interfere with any existing medications or health conditions.
With these tips in mind, you should be able to safely and effectively incorporate turmeric into your skincare routine for maximum benefit.
Happy glowing!
]]>Grapeseed oil is a natural, lightweight oil derived from the seeds of grapes. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it a great choice for use on the skin.
At Aleavia, we're committed to helping you maintain healthy, radiant skin through naturally-occurring ingredients in the earth and sea.
Although we don't include grapeseed oil (yet!) in our own line of skincare products, we want to bring more awareness to its incredible healing properties.
Grapeseed oil can help to nourish and moisturize skin, reduce inflammation, and protect against environmental stressors.
Furthermore, grapeseed oil has been shown to have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties that can help keep the skin healthy and looking its best.
In this post, we'll go over:
Let's dive in!
Grapeseed oil has been found in many traditional folk remedies and healing practices, particularly those related to skin health.
For over six millennia, grapeseed oil has been revered for its healing powers. The Greeks were the first to document the many advantages of consuming grapes and their extracts.
Ancient European peoples even used this powerful elixir to treat skin ailments and eye conditions.
These ancient civilizations surely seemed onto something with their use of grapeseed oil as an alternative remedy - one whose therapeutic benefits can still be seen today.
In the 20th Century, grapeseed oil began to attract the attention of scientists. In addition to its use in cooking, grapeseed oil is once again gaining popularity as a natural skin and hair remedy.
Grapeseed oil is rich in vitamin E, linoleic acid, and other powerful antioxidants.
This makes it ideal for nourishing and protecting the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors such as UV radiation and air pollution.
Grapeseed oil can also help to reduce inflammation, particularly in the case of acne and eczema. Grapeseed oil may even slow down the signs of aging by reducing wrinkles and fine lines.
It has a very light texture that makes it an ideal choice for those with oily or combination skin types - it won't clog pores or leave your skin feeling greasy.
The antioxidants and fatty acids in grapeseed oil are also great for nourishing and hydrating dry skin, as well as restoring the hair's natural shine and luster.
Grapeseed oil is also known for its skin-tightening properties.
Grapeseed oil contains a high concentration of polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that promote healthy cell turnover and help to reduce signs of aging.
By promoting collagen production and reducing inflammation, grapeseed oil can help to firm the skin and reduce wrinkles.
Grapeseed oil can also help to minimize the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.
Grapeseed oil is a natural emollient, which means it helps to hydrate and soothe the skin.
Grapeseed oil can help to protect your skin from moisture loss by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the skin.
As mentioned above, it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce irritation caused by dryness and other skin conditions.
Grapeseed oil can also help to improve the skin's elasticity, making it a great choice for those with mature or aging skin.
Grapeseed oil can be effective in combating acne and other skin blemishes due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
These properties help to reduce inflammation in the skin, which is often a major contributing factor to acne breakouts. Grapeseed oil also helps to unclog pores and prevent future breakouts.
The fatty acids in grapeseed oil also help to moisturize and nourish the skin, reducing redness and irritation caused by acne.
Grapeseed oil is generally considered safe for most skin types, but it can cause some adverse reactions in those with sensitive skin.
If you experience irritation or redness after applying grapeseed oil to your skin, discontinue use and seek the advice of a dermatologist.
It's also important to note that grapeseed oil can stain clothing, so be sure to wear something you don't mind getting a bit of oil on when applying it topically.
Due to its tightening properties, grapeseed oil may not be the best choice for those with dry skin.
That said, many studies have demonstrated any adverse effects of topically-applied grapeseed oil are extremely rare, so you should be safe to try it out.
If you're looking to give grapeseed oil a try, here are some of our top recommendations:
NOW Foods Grapeseed Oil is 100% pure and cold-pressed, making it ideal for skin care applications. It's also non-GMO and hexane free.
Pure, organic, cold-pressed grapeseed oil hand-picked from crops in the central valley of Chile.
This Grapeseed Oil from Aura Cacia is certified organic and expeller-pressed without the use of chemicals or solvents. It's a light oil that absorbs quickly into the skin.
A: Grapeseed oil is great for the skin due to its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
It can help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, restore luster to the hair, minimize dark circles around the eyes, and combat acne.
A: Grapeseed oil can be effective in combating acne due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
These properties help to reduce inflammation in the skin, unclog pores, and prevent future breakouts.
A: Grapeseed oil is an emollient, which means it helps to hydrate and soothe the skin.
While it can help to unclog pores and prevent future breakouts, it may not be suitable for those with dry skin due to its tightening properties.
A: Grapeseed oil is generally considered safe for most skin types, but it can cause irritation and redness in those with highly-sensitive skin.
As with any natural ingredient, always start with a spot test to ensure it works for your particular skin type.
If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and seek the advice of a dermatologist.
A: Grapeseed oil can stain clothing, so be sure to wear something you don't mind getting a bit oily when applying it topically.
If you're the nerdy type that wants to dive into the science of grapeseed oil, check out these studies on how this natural ingredient interacts with the skin:
Grapeseed oil is a great natural ingredient to add to your skincare routine.
It's filled with powerful antioxidants that can help reduce wrinkles, soothe inflammation, and keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.
For those with dry skin, however, it may not be the best choice due to its tightening properties.
Always perform a spot test and consult your dermatologist if you experience any adverse reactions when using this oil.
Grapeseed oil can also stain clothing, so be sure to wear something you don't mind getting a bit oily when applying it topically.
Overall, grapeseed oil is an effective and natural option for those looking to improve their skin health.
If you want to learn more about our mission to help folks heal their bodies from the inside out, check out our post on prebiotic skincare, or browse our line of all-natural skincare products today!
]]>Coconut oil is an ancient natural ingredient that has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous health benefits.
Coconut oil is extracted from the flesh of coconut fruits and has a variety of uses, including as a cooking oil, as a natural skin moisturizer, and as a hair treatment.
Coconut oil is thought to be beneficial for the skin due to its moisturizing properties. In addition, coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that can help to kill bacteria and fungi, which may be beneficial for treating acne.
Historically, coconut oil has been used for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, as well as to soothe burns and protect against sun damage. Coconut oil is also a common ingredient in natural beauty products.
Coconut oil is often praised for its potential skin benefits. Some of the purported benefits include:
If you’re using coconut oil as a moisturizer, you can apply it to your skin after cleansing and before applying your sunscreen or makeup.
If you’re using coconut oil as a treatment for acne or another skin condition, you can apply it to the affected area up to three times per day.
You can also use coconut oil as a natural makeup remover or as a hair treatment. For more on this topic, check out our post on how to create the perfect natural skin care routine.
Coconut oil is generally safe to use on the skin. However, some people may experience skin irritation, redness, or breakouts. If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
Coconut oil may also clog pores, which can lead to breakouts. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, coconut oil may not be the best choice for you.
It’s also important to note that coconut oil can increase your risk of sunburn. Be sure to apply sunscreen before going outdoors if you’ve used coconut oil on your skin.
Coconut oils come in a variety of forms, including virgin coconut oil, fractionated coconut oil, and coconut milk.
For skin care, virgin coconut oil is the best choice. Virgin coconut oil is unrefined and contains the most nutrients.
When shopping for coconut oil, look for an oil that is:
To reduce puffiness and wrinkles, apply coconut oil around the eyes before bedtime.
Mix coconut oil with honey, avocado, or another natural ingredient to create a nourishing face mask.
Coconut oil can help to remove makeup, including waterproof mascara. Simply massage coconut oil into your skin, then remove it with a warm washcloth.
Apply coconut oil to your skin after showering or bathing for long-lasting moisture.
For dry, cracked skin, coconut oil can help to soothe and heal. Apply coconut oil to the affected area up to three times per day.
Rub coconut oil onto your stomach, breasts, or hips during pregnancy to help prevent stretch marks.
For natural shaving cream, try coconut oil. The oil will help to soften hair and reduce irritation.
Mix coconut oil with baking soda and essential oils to create a natural deodorant.
Coconut oil can help to soothe a sunburn. Apply the oil to the affected area as needed.
For chapped lips, coconut oil can help to moisturize and heal. Apply the oil as needed, or make a DIY lip balm.
Yes, coconut oil can be used as a moisturizer. Apply coconut oil to your skin after cleansing and before applying your sunscreen or makeup.
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help to treat acne. Apply coconut oil to the affected area up to three times per day.
Yes, coconut oil can be used on the face. Apply coconut oil to the skin after cleansing and before applying your sunscreen or makeup.
Coconut oil has several benefits for the skin, including reducing inflammation, preventing moisture loss, and protecting against free radicals. Coconut oil is also a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
You can apply coconut oil to your skin as needed. For best results, apply coconut oil after cleansing and before applying your sunscreen or makeup.
Coconut oil can clog pores, which can lead to breakouts. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, coconut oil may not be the best choice for you.
Coconut oil can last on your skin for up to 12 hours. For best results, apply coconut oil after cleansing and before applying your sunscreen or makeup.
Yes, coconut oil does expire. The shelf life of coconut oil is about two years. After that, the oil can become rancid.
Yes, coconut oil can relieve skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and dry, cracked skin. Apply coconut oil to the affected area up to three times per day.
Coconut oil is a versatile and natural product that can be used to improve the health of your skin.
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and it can help to treat acne, psoriasis, eczema, and dry, cracked skin.
This is why we include coconut oil in all of our prebiotic skincare products, including our body washes, lotions, and mists.
Prebiotics are nourishing “superfood” for the skin which naturally feeds the skin's healthy microbes. Prebiotics diminish harmful bacteria and create a balanced skin pH.
This healthy enzymatic activity stimulated at the cellular level aids in skin restoration, accelerates recovery in problematic skin, and repairs skin from blemishes, scars, and wounds.
To learn more about the power of prebiotics, check out our post: Prebiotic Skincare: Everything You Need to Know, or shop our products now!
]]>Rosehip oil is a natural oil that is extracted from the seeds of a wild rose bush. Rosehip oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of skin conditions.
Rosehip oil is high in essential fatty acids and vitamin C, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking to improve the appearance of their skin.
Rosehip oil is often used to treat wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks. It can also be used to help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
In this post, we'll talk through:
Rosehip oil is a natural source of essential fatty acids, which help to keep the skin hydrated.
Rosehip oil is also a natural source of vitamin C, which is known to help boost collagen production and fight the signs of aging.
Hyperpigmentation is a condition where the skin produces too much melanin, resulting in dark patches or spots on the skin.
Rosehip oil can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the production of melanin.
Skin immunity is the body’s ability to fight off infections and other foreign bodies. Rosehip oil can help to boost the skin’s immunity by reducing inflammation and boosting collagen production.
Acne is caused by a build-up of sebum, which can block pores and lead to bacterial growth. Rosehip oil can help to unblock pores and reduce the growth of bacteria. Rosehip oil can help to soothe acne-prone skin by reducing inflammation and redness.
Rosehip oil is high in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage. Rosehip oil can also help to repair the damage that has already been done to the skin.
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Rosehip oil can help to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells and promoting new cell growth.
Rosehip oil is high in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin against damage from toxins and pollution.
Collagen is a protein that helps to keep the skin firm and elastic. Rosehip oil can help to encourage collagen growth, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to premature aging. Rosehip oil is high in antioxidants, which help to fight free radicals and protect the skin from damage.
Scars and stretch marks can appear on the skin as a result of injury, surgery, or pregnancy. Rosehip oil can help to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks by promoting the growth of new skin cells.
Many of us underestimate the impact the sun has on our skin, even when we're not spending a lot of time outdoors. Rosehip oil can help to protect the skin against damage from UV radiation.
Before using rosehip oil, it's important to do a patch test to make sure you're not allergic. To do a patch test:
If you experience any irritation, redness, or swelling, discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor. Rosehip oil is generally considered safe for most people, but it's always best to err on the side of caution.
Rosehip oil can be used in a variety of ways, depending on your skin type and the condition you're trying to treat.
If you have dry skin, you can use rosehip oil as a moisturizer. Simply massage a few drops of rosehip oil into your skin after cleansing.
If you have oily skin, you can use rosehip oil as a spot treatment for acne. Simply apply a few drops of rosehip oil to a cotton pad and dab it onto the affected areas.
If you have sensitive skin, you can use rosehip oil as a face mask. Simply mix a few drops of rosehip oil with some honey and apply it to your face. Leave for 20 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.
If you want to boost collagen production, you can use rosehip oil as a serum. Simply mix a few drops of rosehip oil with some vitamin E oil and apply it to your face.
Rosehip oil can be used on its own or in combination with other oils, depending on your skin type and the condition you're trying to treat.
Experiment to see what works best for you. You can also add a few drops of rosehip oil to your regular moisturizer or face cream.
Rosehip oil can be used at any time of day. If you're using it as a moisturizer, you can apply it in the morning or at night. If you're using it as a serum or face mask, you can apply it at night before bed.
If you're looking to implement it into your skincare routine, a good place for it would be after cleansing and toning, but before applying your regular face cream or moisturizer.
Rosehip oil can be used daily or as needed. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with using it once a week and then gradually increase to using it daily.
When stored properly, rosehip oil has a shelf life of about 18 months.
Rosehip oil, like many other skincare ingredients derived from nature, is generally considered safe for most people. However, some people may experience side effects, such as skin irritation, redness, or swelling.
Remember to always start with a patch test and only move forward with regular usage after you've confirmed the absence of any adverse effects.
Yes, you can use rosehip oil every day.
There is no definitive answer as to which rosehip oil is best. Different brands offer different formulations, so it's important to read the labels carefully and choose the one that's best suited for your skin type and the condition you're trying to treat.
Yes, you can use rosehip oil directly on your face. Just make sure to do a patch test first to ensure you're not allergic.
Yes, rosehip oil can be used as a spot treatment for acne. Simply apply a few drops of rosehip oil to a cotton pad and dab it onto the affected areas.
Yes, rosehip oil can help with wrinkles. Rosehip oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which can help to boost collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Rosehip oil is a natural product that can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions. It's important to start with a patch test and only move forward with regular usage after you've confirmed the absence of any adverse effects.
Rosehip oil can be used on its own or in combination with other oils, depending on your skin type and the condition you're trying to treat.
Experiment to see what works best for you. You can also add a few drops of rosehip oil to your regular moisturizer or face cream.
Rosehip oil can be used daily or as needed. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with using it once a week and then gradually increase to using it daily.
For more information on how to ditch harmful chemicals and start going all-natural with your skincare routine, check out our post all about prebiotic skincare.
]]>Modern skincare science continues to reveal what we already know: the best ingredients for your skin are the ones found in nature.
Naturally (no pun intended), we're ecstatic to see this realization come more into the mainstream. One of the most versatile, useful, and healing substances on planet Earth is salt.
There's a reason we put high-grade Dead Sea salt in every single Aleavia product: it also has many beneficial properties for skincare.
In this post, you learn:
Let's dive in!
A salt scrub is a type of exfoliating treatment in which coarse salt is used to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
As we mentioned in our post on how to create the perfect natural skin care routine, exfoliation is essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Exfoliation helps to unclog pores, prevent breakouts, and even out the appearance of your skin tone.
There are a few different ways to exfoliate your skin. You can use mechanical exfoliants, like scrubs or brushes, or chemical exfoliants, like acids or enzymes.
Salt scrubs are considered to be mechanical exfoliants because they physically remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin.
This is in contrast to chemical exfoliants, which work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed off more easily.
Salt scrubs are usually made with coarse salts, like sea salt or Epsom salt. The granules of the salt help to scrub away dead skin cells, revealing the healthy, glowing skin underneath.
There are a few different types of salt scrubs, which we'll discuss in more detail below.
There are two main types of salt scrubs: dry salt scrubs and wet salt scrubs.
Dry salt scrubs are made with dry ingredients, like salt and sugar. They typically don't contain any wet ingredients, like oil or water.
Wet salt scrubs are made with both dry and wet ingredients. The salt is combined with an oil or cream, which helps to moisturize the skin as you exfoliate.
The type of scrub you choose will depend on your personal preference and your skin type. If you have dry skin, you may prefer a wet salt scrub, as it will help to moisturize your skin as you exfoliate.
If you have oily skin, you may prefer a dry salt scrub, as it will help to remove excess oil from your skin.
Salt scrubs offer several benefits for your skin:
Now that we've gone over the benefits of salt scrubs, let's take a look at how to apply them.
Before you begin, it's important to make sure your skin is clean. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, and pat dry. Next, wet your hands and add a small amount of scrub to your palms.
Gently massage the scrub into your skin in a circular motion, avoiding the area around your eyes. Continue massaging for one to two minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Pat your skin dry with a towel and apply a moisturizer.
It's important not to scrub too hard, as this can irritate your skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to use a smaller amount of scrub or avoid using it altogether.
If you're interested in making your own salt scrub at home, there are a few different recipes you can try.
For a basic salt scrub, combine 1 cup of sea salt with 1/2 cup of olive oil or coconut oil. For a more exfoliating scrub, add 1/4 cup of sugar to the mix.
For a wet salt scrub, combine 1 cup of sea salt with 1/2 cup of almond oil or jojoba oil. You can also add 1/4 cup of honey for an extra-moisturizing scrub.
For a scented salt scrub, add a few drops of essential oil to the mix. Some good options include lavender oil, peppermint oil, or eucalyptus oil.
Once you've chosen your ingredients, simply combine them in a bowl and mix until everything is evenly combined. Store your scrub in a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid and use it within a few weeks.
There are many different "types" of salt, including Epsom salt, Himalayan salt, and sea salt. Here's how to choose which salt to use in your salt scrub, and the benefits of each.
Epsom salt: Epsom salt is a type of magnesium sulfate, which has many benefits for your skin. It helps to draw out toxins, soothe inflammation, and improve circulation.
Himalayan salt: Himalayan salt is a pinkish-colored salt that contains 84 different minerals. It's thought to help balance your skin's pH levels, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Sea salt: Sea salt is a type of salt that's harvested from the sea. It contains many minerals, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals are thought to help cleanse the skin, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Now that you know all about the different types of salt and their benefits, it's time to choose the right one for your skin type.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, we recommend using Epsom salt or Himalayan salt. These types of salt are less likely to irritate your skin.
If you have oily skin, we recommend using sea salt. Sea salt helps to remove excess oil from your skin and can even help to prevent breakouts.
For best results, we recommend using a salt scrub two to three times per week.
Yes, you can use a salt scrub on your face. Just be sure to use a gentle scrub and avoid the area around your eyes.
Salt scrubs can also help to improve circulation, remove toxins from the skin, and even relieve muscle aches and pains.
Yes, it's important to moisturize after using a salt scrub. This will help to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated.
Salt and sugar scrubs are both exfoliants that can help to improve the appearance of your skin. However, salt scrubs tend to be more abrasive than sugar scrubs.
This means that they're best for people with tough, calloused skin. Sugar scrubs, on the other hand, are more gentle and are better suited for people with sensitive skin.
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your salt scrub:
There is some evidence to suggest that salt can help to lighten dark spots on the skin. However, more research is needed in this area. In the meantime, try using a salt scrub on your dark spots and see if you notice any improvement.
Salt scrubs are an excellent natural exfoliant, especially sea salt. That's why we include unadulterated sea salt from the Dead Sea in all of our skincare products.
Salt scrubs can help to improve circulation, remove toxins from the skin, and even relieve muscle aches and pains.
So if you're ready to introduce more salt into your skin's diet, check out our line of all-natural, prebiotic skin care products today. Your skin will thank you!
]]>Beeswax is a natural product that has been used for centuries. It has many benefits for the skin and can be used in a variety of ways.
The history of using beeswax goes all the way back to ancient Greece. It was used as a sealant for jars and was also popular in cosmetics.
Beeswax is a natural product that has many benefits for the skin. It can be used in a variety of ways, including:
As a lip balm: beeswax is a natural moisturizer and can help protect your lips from the sun and wind.
As a facial moisturizer: beeswax is a natural emollient and helps to seal in moisture.
As a hair treatment: beeswax can help protect your hair from the sun and wind, and can also help to tame frizzy hair.
As a diaper cream: beeswax is a natural antibacterial and can help protect your baby's bottom from diaper rash.
In this blog post, we'll be going over the different ways to use beeswax for skin. We'll discuss the different types of beeswax, the benefits of beeswax, and provide a few recipes for you to try at home.
Let's jump in!
Beeswax is a natural wax that is secreted by bees to build their honeycombs. It has a variety of uses, including as a skincare product.
Beeswax contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for the skin. It helps to retain moisture, protect against the sun's harmful rays, and reduce inflammation.
Beeswax can be used on its own or in combination with other ingredients to create skin care products such as balms, salves, lotions, and moisturizers.
There are two types of beeswax created by honey bees: yellow and white.
Yellow beeswax is the most common type of beeswax and is made from bees that collect pollen from flowers. It contains more impurities than white beeswax but is less expensive.
White beeswax is made from bees that collect nectar from flowers. It is more expensive than yellow beeswax but is purer and easier to work with.
Beeswax can be purchased in a variety of forms, including pellets, flakes, and blocks. It is also available in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and brown.
Here are the 11 specific ways beeswax is good for your skin!
There's a reason many lip balms use beeswax as an essential ingredient.
Beeswax is an effective treatment for chapped lips. It helps to seal in moisture and protect the lips from the elements.
Beeswax can be used on its own or in combination with other ingredients, such as coconut oil or cocoa butter, to create a lip balm.
Beeswax has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to heal wounds. When applied to a wound, beeswax forms a protective barrier that helps to keep out dirt and bacteria.
Beeswax can also help to speed up the healing process by promoting the growth of new skin cells.
Babies are susceptible to diaper rash, which can be caused by wet or soiled diapers. Diaper rash is a form of dermatitis that is characterized by red, inflamed skin.
Beeswax can help to treat and prevent diaper rash. When applied to the skin, beeswax forms a barrier that helps to protect against moisture and irritants.
Beeswax can also help to soothe and heal the skin by reducing inflammation.
Eczema and psoriasis are conditions that cause the skin to become dry, itchy, and inflamed. Beeswax can help to soothe eczema and psoriasis flare-ups by forming a protective barrier on the skin.
Beeswax can also help to reduce inflammation and itching. When used in combination with other ingredients, such as coconut or almond oil, beeswax can help to moisturize the skin and reduce the severity of eczema and psoriasis flare-ups.
Beeswax contains natural sunscreen properties that can help to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. When applied to the skin, beeswax forms a barrier that helps to reflect UV rays.
Beeswax can also help to moisturize the skin and prevent premature aging.
Beeswax can be used to relieve itching caused by dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis. When applied to the skin, beeswax forms a barrier that helps to keep out irritants and allergens.
Beeswax forms a protective layer on the skin that acts as a barrier against environmental toxins, such as pollution and smog.
Beeswax can also help to lock in moisture and prevent the skin from becoming dry and irritated.
Stretch marks are a common side effect of pregnancy. They occur when the skin is stretched beyond its limit and the collagen and elastin fibers break.
Beeswax can help to reduce stretch marks by promoting the growth of new skin cells and restoring elasticity to the skin.
When used in combination with other ingredients, such as shea or cocoa butter, beeswax can help to moisturize the skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Beeswax has antimicrobial properties that can help to keep your skin clean. When applied to the skin, beeswax forms a barrier that helps to trap dirt and impurities.
Beeswax can also help to reduce the appearance of pores and prevent the buildup of oil and bacteria.
When applied to the skin, beeswax forms a barrier that helps to protect against irritants and allergens.
Beeswax can also help to soothe and heal the skin by reducing inflammation. When used in combination with other ingredients, such as Manuka honey or chamomile oil, beeswax can help to reduce the severity of skin allergies.
Beeswax can be used to shape and treat facial hair. When applied to the hair, beeswax helps to hold the hair in place and tame flyaways.
Beeswax can also help to condition the hair and skin. When used in combination with other ingredients, such as jojoba oil or argan oil, beeswax can help to nourish and protect the hair and skin.
Beeswax can be used in a variety of ways to benefit the skin. It can be applied directly to the skin or added to homemade skincare or beauty products.
When applying beeswax directly to the skin, it is important to do a patch test first to ensure that you are not allergic to it.
If you have sensitive skin, beeswax may cause irritation. Always consult with a doctor or skincare specialist before using beeswax on broken or inflamed skin.
There are many ways to incorporate beeswax into your skincare routine. Below are some recipes for beeswax skin care products that you can make at home:
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For some folks, beeswax can irritate the skin. Always do a patch test before using beeswax on your skin. If you have sensitive skin, beeswax may cause irritation. Consult with a doctor or skincare specialist before using beeswax on broken or inflamed skin.
Beeswax has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to treat acne. However, beeswax can also clog pores. If you have acne-prone skin, consult with a doctor or skincare specialist before using beeswax on your skin.
No, beeswax is not harmful to the skin. In fact, beeswax can be beneficial for the skin. Beeswax has antimicrobial properties that can help to treat various skin conditions.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Always consult with a doctor or skincare specialist before using beeswax on your skin. They can help you determine how often to use beeswax based on your individual needs.
Though everyone's skin type is different, beeswax can potentially clog pores. If you have acne-prone skin, consult with a doctor or skincare specialist before using beeswax on your skin. They can help you determine if beeswax is right for you.
No, beeswax does not have collagen. Collagen is a protein found in the skin, bones, and connective tissues. Beeswax does have propolis, which is a resin that bees use to repair their hives. Propolis has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit the skin.
Beeswax can be stored in a cool, dry place. If beeswax is exposed to heat, it may melt. To avoid this, store beeswax in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Beeswax can be beneficial for the skin. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to treat various skin conditions.
So the next time you see some honey bees flying around your house, thank them for their service (and don't swat them).
]]>If you're one of the 16 million Americans who suffer from rosacea, you know how embarrassing and frustrating this skin condition can be.
While there is no cure for rosacea, following a good skincare routine can help control its symptoms.
In this blog post, we'll discuss the best ways to care for your rosacea-prone skin. Keep reading to learn more!
Rosacea is a condition that causes redness and irritation of the skin. Visible blood vessels may also present themselves on the surface of the skin.
Rosacea most commonly affects the face, but it can also affect other areas of the body such as the chest, neck, and ears.
The condition is often characterized by four subtypes:
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: This type is characterized by redness and visible blood vessels.
Papulopustular rosacea: This type is characterized by redness, swelling, and acne-like bumps.
Phymatous rosacea: This type is characterized by the thickening of the skin and the development of bumps.
Ocular rosacea: This type is characterized by red, irritated eyes and the formation of bumps on the eyelids.
It typically appears on the face, but can also affect the neck, chest, and back. Rosacea is most common in women and people with fair skin, but it can occur in any person of any age or race.
It is estimated to affect over 16 million Americans, and while it can develop at any age, it is most commonly seen in adults aged 30-50.
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Rosacea tends to run in families, so it is believed that there may be a genetic predisposition for the condition. In addition, rosacea has been linked to certain lifestyle factors, such as sun exposure, stress, and alcohol consumption.
There is no cure for rosacea, but its symptoms can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. If you think you may have rosacea, it is important to see a doctor for an official diagnosis.
With proper treatment and the right skin care routine, rosacea can be controlled and its symptoms can be minimized.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause of rosacea is still unknown. However, there are a number of possible factors that may contribute to the development of the condition. These include:
Rosacea is often characterized by facial redness, inflammation, and swelling of the skin. It most commonly affects the face, but can also affect the neck, chest, and ears.
Although rosacea is not contagious, it can be difficult to manage and may lead to social anxiety and other emotional issues.
If you think you may have rosacea, it's important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
While there is no cure for rosacea, there are a number of treatments that can help to control the symptoms. These include:
In addition, lifestyle changes such as:
If you are concerned that you may have rosacea, it is important to see a doctor or dermatologist for an evaluation.
With proper treatment, it is possible to control the symptoms of this condition and live a normal, active life.
There are a number of different factors that can trigger a rosacea flare-up. These triggers vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:
Pro-tip: don't neglect your diet. Most of the rosacea sufferers I've known personally have had the worst flare-ups as a result of eating inflammation-causing foods.
If you're serious about eliminating rosacea flare-ups, consider cutting the following foods out of your diet:
It's also important to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit your intake of diuretics.
If you have rosacea, it is important to identify your triggers and avoid them as much as possible. This can help to prevent flare-ups and keep your skin healthy and irritation-free.
One of the most important things you can do to care for your rosacea-prone skin is to wear sunscreen every day. This will help to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, which can trigger a flare-up.
Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and be sure to reapply it every 2 hours when you are outdoors.
In addition, wear protective clothing such as a hat and sunglasses when you are in the sun.
Stress is a common trigger for rosacea flare-ups. If you have rosacea, it is important to find ways to manage stress and keep it under control.
There are a number of different stress management techniques that can be helpful. These include:
Finding an effective stress management technique that works for you can help to reduce the frequency and severity of your rosacea flare-ups.
If you have rosacea, it is important to use gentle, non-irritating skincare products (preferably those with natural ingredients).
Harsh cleansers, exfoliants, and other synthetic chemicals can trigger a flare-up. In addition, it is important to avoid using any skincare products that contain alcohol, fragrance, or other potential irritants.
Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a rosacea-friendly skin care routine:
Step 1: Cleanse your face twice a day with a non-irritating, gentle cleanser. You can also use a milk cleanser or cleansing oil to help remove makeup and other impurities from your skin.
Step 2: Apply a light, non-greasy moisturizer to your face and neck. Be sure to avoid any products that contain potential irritants such as alcohol, fragrance, or retinoids.
Step 3: Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your face and neck every day. Be sure to reapply it every 2 hours when you are outdoors.
Step 4: If you experience a rosacea flare-up, avoid using any skincare products that could potentially irritate your skin. Instead, focus on using products that will help to soothe and calm your skin.
Following these simple steps can help to minimize the severity and frequency of rosacea flare-ups.
In addition, it is important to see a dermatologist if your symptoms are severe or if over-the-counter treatments are not effective.
Related post: How to create the perfect natural skin care routine
The skin barrier is a layer of cells that acts as a shield against the external environment, protecting the body from bacteria, viruses, and other potential threats.
The skin barrier is made up of lipids (fats) and proteins, which help to keep moisture in and harmful substances out. The barrier also helps to protect the body from UV radiation and other forms of environmental stress.
Damage to this barrier can lead to dryness, sensitivity, inflammation and other skin problems. It is important to take steps to protect the barrier and keep it healthy.
This can be done by using gentle, non-irritating skincare products, avoiding harsh chemicals and other potential irritants, and staying hydrated.
If you have rosacea, it is important to keep track of your flare-ups and what triggers them. This can help you to identify patterns and avoid potential triggers in the future.
Some helpful things to record include:
You can keep a record of your flare-ups in a notebook or on your smartphone. There are also a number of apps that can help you to track your rosacea symptoms.
Aleavia uses only natural ingredients that are beneficial for the skin, including organic aloe vera, Manuka honey, and coconut oil.
Our products are free from potential irritants such as alcohol, fragrance, sulfates, and parabens. In addition, they are all non-toxic and safe for people with sensitive skin.
There are a number of online communities and support groups for people with rosacea. These can be a great resource for finding information and support.
Some helpful communities and support groups include:
You can also do a Facebook search for “rosacea support group” to find groups online.
Finding a community of fellow sufferers of rosacea is not only useful for gathering best practices but will also help you in moments of discouragement.
Remember, you're not alone!
If you have rosacea, it is important to use a gentle, non-irritating cleanser. You can also use a milk cleanser or cleansing oil to help remove makeup and other impurities from your skin. Be sure to avoid any products that contain potential irritants such as alcohol, fragrance, or retinoids.
There is no cure for rosacea, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. If you have rosacea, it is important to see a dermatologist for treatment.
You should avoid using any skincare products that could potentially irritate your skin. Instead, focus on using products that will help to soothe and calm your skin. Be sure to avoid any products that contain potential irritants such as alcohol, fragrance, or retinoids.
Yes, hyaluronic acid is safe for people with rosacea. In fact, it can be beneficial as it helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump.
I know it can seem scary to put anything with the word "acid" in it on your skin, but hyaluronic acid is actually a natural substance that is already present in your body.
The best way to clear your skin from rosacea is to:
If you are living with rosacea, it is important to know how to protect your skin and keep flare-ups under control.
The tips we have provided in this article should help you to get started on creating an effective rosacea skin care regimen that will help to soothe and calm your skin.
In addition, be sure to avoid any skincare products that could potentially irritate your skin and join communities of fellow rosacea sufferers for support.
Thanks for reading and good luck!
]]>The following is a comprehensive guide on the best face wash for oily skin.
When it comes to our skin, we’re often at the whims of our genetics. Whether we have dry skin, oily skin, or we’re just prone to breakouts, we have to work with the cards we’re dealt.
And while oily skin certainly can pose challenges — such as acne breakouts and an oily appearance — it’s possible to counteract these effects with the right face wash.
The best face wash for oily skin will depend on two factors:
To remove the guesswork of which face wash may work for you, we list all the ingredients to keep an eye out for when choosing one.
We’ve also analyzed hundreds of face washes for oily skin and present the best 17 with their pros and cons.
Cleansing should be the foundation of your skincare routine, especially for oily skin.
The skin naturally produces oil through the sebaceous glands. These glands are located within your skin and hair, and the oil they produce protects and moisturizes the skin and hair.
The problem arises when sebaceous glands produce more oil than normal, resulting in oily skin.
Excess oil supports bacterial growth. Oil can also mix with dead skin cells and clog your pores. All this can cause acne, large pores, and scars on the face. The oil on your skin can also make your face look greasy.
So, picking a face wash that manages the excess oil, prevents and fights acne, and keeps the skin hydrated is essential.
The last point is crucial as many face washes can strip the skin of oil and make it dry — which is the last thing we want.
Oftentimes, skin that’s predisposed to produce oil will overcompensate when it gets too dry, making the issue even worse.
Here are a few things to note:
Here are some ingredients that are beneficial for oily skin:
This is a mild acid that regulates oil production by your sebum glands. The acid shrinks the pores and gives your skin a matte finish.
Glycolic acid is suitable for all skin types. It is an exfoliant that helps remove dead cells and excess oil to give you fresher, younger-looking skin.
This acid is also an excellent ingredient for acne marks, scars, hyperpigmentation, and sun spots. Glycolic acid also unclogs the pores, preventing blackheads.
It also increases the production of collagen – a skin protein that promotes softness and elasticity.
It is a type of vitamin B3 that provides vitality to the skin and protects it from environmental stress. It’s a great option for managing large pores, acne, and acne scars.
Benzoyl peroxide removes excess oil and prevents acne. However, having the right amount of benzoyl peroxide is essential as too much of this ingredient can make your skin dry.
Experts recommend this ingredient for individuals with oily skin who suffer from pustules or cystic acne.
Neem is an excellent cleanser with detoxifying and antibacterial properties.
Caffeine is a natural exfoliant that removes excess oil and tightens and brightens the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
It moisturizes the skin without clogging the pores. Aloe vera also maintains the oil balance and fights acne marks.
The tea tree oil is well known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also combats skin problems caused by environmental stress.
Here’s a list of the best facial cleansers for oily skin:
The Aleavia Purifying Facial Cleanse gently and effectively sloughs off dead skin cells, toxins, and excess oil to bring your skin’s pH to its optimum level and relieve irritation.
Nutrient-rich Acadian Sea kelp gives skin vital nourishment, organic extra-virgin coconut oil infuses your skin with moisture, and soothing aloe vera purifies the skin.
The cleanser does more than just remove surface impurities—it balances, nourishes, purifies, and plumps your skin with moisture to bring out the fresh, luminous complexion that you’ve been dreaming of.
This is one of the best face washes for people with oily skin. The cleanser contains broad-leaf kelp extract, wheat protein, and tourmaline to make your skin smooth, soft, and grease-free.
It’s a great option for people with an oily T-zone and the rest of the face is really dry.
Users of the face wash love the texture of the face wash and the way it feels on the skin.
Again, a great face wash with natural, organic ingredients.
It contains a natural form of salicylic acid, provitamin B5, and vitamin E. These ingredients combat excess oil and unclog pores without stripping the skin of its natural oil.
The face wash is gentle and suitable even for sensitive skin. It cleanses your face without the tightness.
As discussed above, salicylic acid is an excellent ingredient for oily skin prone to acne. The acid clears your pores of dirt and dust, preventing acne. It also minimizes your pores.
No matter your problem, the blemish-busting face wash can help.
This is a lightweight, serum-like face wash that cleanses your face without causing any harm.
The gentle texture and hyaluronic acid in the face wash keep the skin bouncy and plump.
Users of the face wash are happy that it doesn’t strip the skin of its oil and makes the skin feel refreshed.
Pros
The sweet almond formula balances the oil in your skin and is ideal for acne-prone skin. It doesn’t strip the skin of essential oils.
It can melt your makeup, and you can use it as a second step of the double cleanse.
The cleanser keeps your skin moisturized and soft.
It is a gel-like formula that cleanses your face in one go. This means you don’t need to scrub your face for the matte look.
The soothing ingredients keep the skin healthy and acne free.
This is a great cleanser for removing makeup. Apply this balm to the face and wipe it off with a clean cloth for a hydrated face.
It cleanses your pores without stripping the face of oil.
The key in this face wash is niacinamide, which keeps your skin healthy and fades hyperpigmentation.
It is the best cleanser to pair with a niacinamide serum.
The ingredients in the face wash make it a great option for sensitive and oily skin.
The charcoal formula allows for removing excess oil from the skin.
It also contains vitamin C, which has brightening effects.
The ingredients make this face wash a great option for people with oily and combination skin, especially those prone to breakout.
The aloe vera extract and the foamy lather remove the excess oil while keeping your skin moisturized.
Sunflower seed oil soothes the skin and prevents inflammation.
The ingredients give a matte finish to the skin and keep it super refreshed.
The glycolic and lactic acids balance the skin. They help you get rid of dead skin cells and excess oil, making the face wash an excellent option for acne-prone skin.
The best part is that they fight excess oil without making the skin dry.
Moreover, neem-seed oil in the cleanser has antibacterial and detoxifying properties.
Red clay absorbs excess oil. The face wash makes your skin smooth and soft.
Moreover, it is free of fragrances, sulfates, and alcohol that may irritate oily skin.
The ingredients of the face wash make it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid trio cleanse your skin and keep it moisturized.
It’s a budget-friendly face wash that does its job without making your skin dry.
Salicylic acid in the face wash can dissolve dead skin cells and oils to clean your pores. It also fights acne.
Besides, ingredients like eucalyptus, tea tree, and balm mint can soothe inflammation.
The face wash can also help remove makeup.
The face wash can make your skin pores looks smaller.
Fruit fibers in the face wash remove dirt and bacteria from your pores.
Besides, the face wash has a mild-refreshing smell.
The face wash contains healthy, green ingredients such as kale, spinach, and green tea, which are powerful antioxidants.
The ingredients make it the best option for people with sensitive skin.
Moreover, vitamin C in the face wash brightens the skin and gives it a subtle glow.
Having oily skin is both a blessing and a curse. More oil often means more vibrant-looking hair and resistance to dandruff. However, it can also cause breakouts and a greasier appearance.
Oily skin can be managed. The key is to start a natural skincare routine, choose the right cleanser, and stick with it. Healthy habits, including avoiding greasy or overly oily foods, can make a big difference as well.
Good luck!
]]>Does vitamin C help acne? While it's impossible to say yes beyond a shadow of a doubt, half a dozen studies point to vitamin C helping with many skin conditions.
This post is a comprehensive guide on the benefits of vitamin C for acne.
If you’ve suffered from acne, you know how tricky it can be to treat. It’s often like playing a game of whack-a-mole with your skin.
As soon as you clear one blemish, two more pop up. Acne is a common condition, and there is no single cause for the problem.
From hormonal imbalance to nutritional deficiency, there are various triggers and causes of acne.
The good news: among the ocean of synthetic treatment options, there are lots of organic skincare solutions for getting rid of acne, including vitamin C.
In the 1930s, vitamin C was discovered to be a powerful remedy for scurvy, a disease that caused bleeding gums, spots on the skin, and joint pain.
Since then, we’ve come to know that vitamin C does a lot more than ward off scurvy.
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals, UV rays, and pollution.
It also plays a role in collagen production, which is essential for keeping your skin looking young and supple.
But what about helping skin ailments like acne?
According to a 2013 study by the Indian Dermatology Online Journal, Vitamin C is a potent topical remedy for certain skin conditions.
But what about the side effects? What kind of acne does vitamin C treat? Is it best to apply vitamin C topically or ingest it orally?
This article will answer all of these questions and more. Let’s jump in.
Disclaimer: The benefits of prebiotic skincare and Aleavia specifically have been positively vetted and approved by board-certified dermatologists, microbiologists, and medical doctors. However, we always recommend consulting your primary care physician or board-certified dermatologist before making major health changes.
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.
When this happens, bacteria can grow and cause inflammation.
There are many different causes of acne. Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty or pregnancy, can cause acne.
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or lithium, can also trigger breakouts. Diet and stress are other possible culprits.
Some common causes of acne include:
There are many different types of acne vulgaris. The most common are blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.
Blackheads form when your pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The mixture oxidizes and turns black. Whiteheads are very similar to blackheads but have not oxidized.
Papules are small, red, inflamed bumps. Pustules look like papules but have a white or yellow head.
Nodules are large, hard bumps that form deep under your skin. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form under your skin.
Vitamin C is a powerhouse nutrient with plenty of benefits for your overall health. But what does it do for your skin?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant. This means it helps to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and lead to various health problems.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C also has anti-inflammatory effects. This can be beneficial for people with conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Finally, vitamin C plays a role in collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps to keep your skin looking firm and elastic. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, which can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin.
There is some evidence to suggest that vitamin C may be beneficial for people with acne.
A 2013 study found that a topical form of vitamin C was effective in treating acne vulgaris, the most common type of acne. The study participants who used the vitamin C cream had significantly reduced inflammation and fewer pimples than those who did not use the cream.
It also seemed to expedite wound healing and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is a common side effect of acne, characterized by dark spots on the skin.
It’s important to note that more research is needed to determine whether or not vitamin C is truly effective for acne. However, the evidence that does exist is promising.
Vitamin C is generally safe and well-tolerated. Side effects are rare, but according to the 2013 study, "Minor adverse reactions include a yellowish discoloration of the skin, hypopigmented hair and staining of clothes, which occur due to oxidative changes of Vit. C. Once applied, Vit. C cannot be fully washed or wiped off the skin. Rarely, stinging, erythema and dryness are observed after use of topical Vit. C. These can easily be treated using a moisturiser. Care must be taken while applying Vit. C around the eyes."
In other words, use common sense. If vitamin C results in your skin becoming red, irritated, or uncomfortable, you may be having a reaction and should stop treatment immediately.
If you’re interested in using vitamin C for your acne, there are a few different ways to do it.
You can take it orally in the form of supplements or use topical products that contain vitamin C. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so experiment to see what works best for you.
If you decide to take supplements, be sure to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine the right dosage for your individual needs.
Topical products are available in a variety of forms, including creams, serums, and oils. You can find them at most drugstores and beauty retailers.
When using topical products, it’s important to start slowly and increase frequency gradually. This will give your skin time to adjust and will help you avoid any unwanted side effects.
Do a patch test on a small area of skin first to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction. If everything goes well, you can start using the product on your entire face.
It’s also important to use sunscreen when taking vitamin C orally or applying it topically. This is because vitamin C makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Wearing sunscreen will help protect your skin from sun damage and will help you get the most out of your vitamin C treatment.
Acne scars are one of the most stubborn and difficult-to-treat skin concerns. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation, picking at pimples, and genetics.
There is some evidence to suggest that vitamin C may help reduce the appearance of acne scars.
A 2016 study found that a topical form of vitamin C was effective in reducing the appearance of scars caused by surgery. The study participants who used the vitamin C cream had significantly reduced scarring compared to those who did not use the cream.
Another study, this one from 2014, found that a gel containing 5% vitamin C was effective in treating acne scars. The study participants who used the gel saw a significant improvement in the appearance of their scars after 12 weeks of treatment.
The evidence is promising, but more research is needed to determine whether or not vitamin C is truly effective for treating acne scars.
If you’re interested in using vitamin C for your acne scars, there are a few different ways to do it. You can take it orally in the form of supplements or use topical products that contain vitamin C.
You can also combine vitamin C with other acne scar treatments, such as retinoids, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor first to make sure this is the right approach for you.
Some other natural remedies for acne include:
If these measures fail to help, you can consult a dermatologist. They can suggest a treatment best suitable for your skin.
Finding the right products for your acne-prone skin can be a challenge. There are so many products on the market, and it can be hard to know which ones will actually work for you.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best products for acne-prone skin. These products have all been tested and proven to be effective at reducing acne.
Let’s have a look at some great products for acne-prone skin.
If you’re looking for a natural acne kit that actually works, look no further than the Aleavia Prebiotic Acne Repair Kit. This kit comes with everything you need to get started on your acne-clearing journey.
The kit includes our Aleavia Purifying Facial Cleanse and Aleavia Clear Facial Mist. These products work together to cleanse, tone, and hydrate your skin while also helping to reduce acne.
All our ingredients are 100% natural from the earth and sea, vegan, cruelty-free, and safe for all skin types.
This serum claims to reduce the signs of congestion and visible sebum activity. It also helps in improving the appearance of textural irregularities
The key ingredients include niacinamide and zinc PCA.
This oil-free vitamin C serum is designed specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin. The serum offers environmental protection, reduces oiliness, refines skin texture, and boosts skin clarity and fine lines.
It is formulated with 11 blemish-fighting ingredients. It helps restore and re-establish a healthy skin environment
Users of the serum report long-lasting results and a visible reduction in the appearance of blemishes
Ingredients in this serum offer soothing and humectant benefits. They bind and restore moisture, leaving your skin looking plump and supple.
They also prevent moisture loss and strengthen the skin barrier.
One of the most popular forms of vitamin C application is vitamin C serum. But does it actually help?
Let’s see what research says:
Experts believe vitamin C has anti-inflammatory action, which can help improve the appearance of lesions.
In a 12-week study, 61% of the participants using vitamin C reported improvement in acne as compared to those without it,
Another study reported a 48.8% reduction in acne with vitamin C and 63% in those using vitamin C with vitamin A.
If the skin doesn’t heal after an acne breakout, it can result in scar development.
Vitamin C supports the healing of scars by increasing the production of collagen – a skin protein responsible for skin healing and elasticity.
In a study, 15% of the participants on vitamin C and micro-needling reported faster healing than those without the treatment.
However, vitamin C may not be useful for certain scars.
Acne, sun rays, or injuries can result in hyperpigmented spots on your face.
Vitamin C serum interferes in the production of a chemical that aids in the production of skin pigment – melanin.
It can also brighten your skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Various studies have proven the beneficial effect of vitamin C serum in hyperpigmentation.
While many studies have shown the mentioned benefits of vitamin C, long-lasting studies are lacking in knowing its effect on acne.
There are different types of vitamin C, including:
It is the most well-known and well-researched form of vitamin C. It is the most effective form to penetrate the skin barrier.
It converts into ascorbic acid once it’s applied to the skin. While it is less active, it is beneficial for people with sensitive skin.
It is one of the most stable and most hydrating forms of vitamin C.
Ascorbic acid is the purest form of vitamin C, and this form is the sodium salt of ascorbic acid. It converts to ascorbic acid when applied to the skin, making it less potent. However, it is less irritating and beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
This is another mineral salt of ascorbic acid. It is effective at a neutral pH, making it non-irritating to the skin.
It is a fat-soluble derivative of vitamin C, ascorbyl palmitate. While it is non-irritating for sensitive skin, it is more stable when exposed to air and light than ascorbic acid.
Vitamin C has many beneficial effects on acne. Using a natural vitamin C serum is an excellent way to utilize the benefits and manage acne.
Vitamin C has many benefits for acne, including reducing inflammation, improving healing, and reducing hyperpigmentation. However, more long-term studies are needed to fully understand its effects.
You can get more vitamin C in your diet by eating foods such as strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and leafy greens. You can also use skin care products that contain vitamin C, such as serums, creams, and moisturizers.
We understand the importance of natural ingredients, especially if you are struggling with acne.
All Aleavia products are chemical-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients from the earth and sea. If nothing is working to help your acne, we recommend starting with our Aleavia Prebiotic Acne Repair Kit.
Good luck, and thanks for reading!
]]>This post is a comprehensive guide on dehydrated skin and how you can manage it.
You'll learn:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Environmental changes and aging may cause your skin to lose water. Losing some water is normal. But you lose excess water, and…hello dehydrated skin.
If you don’t replenish the moisture, it may even result in skin sensitivity and irritation.
The good news is dehydrated skin is a transient skin condition and can be managed by following specific skin care tips and making lifestyle changes.
Dehydrated skin is a condition where it lacks moisture. Your body is 65% water, and it needs water for various functions, such as lubricating joints and removing waste in the form of urine.
If you don’t replace water loss by drinking fluids, it may result in dehydration that affects various body organs, including the skin.
However, it’s essential to understand that dry and dehydrated skin are not the same. Dry skin is a skin type, and you are usually born with it. On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a transient condition and can be resolved with lifestyle changes and topical treatment.
About 15% of your body’s water is stored in the skin, which acts as a reservoir for other organs to use it.
The skin also allows the exchange of water with the external environment. This means water from the deeper layer of the skin can move to the surrounding air and vice versa. This loss of water from the skin is known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
The outer layer of the skin protects against water loss from the skin. If this barrier is impaired, your skin starts losing water, resulting in dehydration.
Factors that can alter the functioning of the skin’s outer layer include:
Not sure what dehydrated skin looks like? Here are some common symptoms that indicate your skin is losing water:
When the skin’s barrier is altered, it becomes more sensitive. The skin cannot protect itself from external stressors, such as pollution and bacteria. This results in redness and irritation of the skin.
Loss of moisture from the outer layer of the skin makes it tight and itchy. This is often associated with flaking of the skin.
Dehydration alters the normal turnover of the cells. Your skin cannot shed the outer layer, and dead cells build up on the surface. All this results in congestion, clogged pores, and a dull complexion.
Dehydrated skin may accelerate signs of aging. The wrinkles and fine lines appear as a network of triangular, tiny lines.
You may have some of the mentioned symptoms and wondering if you have dry or dehydrated skin.
There’s one test that can help you understand whether your skin is hydrated or not.
Pinch a small portion of the skin on the back of your hand. Usually, the skin should return to normal instantly. If your skin returns to the normal state more slowly, you may have dehydrated skin.
Let’s say you have the symptoms and the pinch test is positive. What can you do or how can you treat it?
Don’t worry! Dehydration is entirely treatable with lifestyle changes and topical application.
Let’s look at some simple yet effective ways to treat skin dehydration.
The first important step is to replenish your hydration. So, drink at least eight glasses of water a day unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
You may need to drink more water based on your activity levels, age, and body weight.
Don’t like plain water? Add a dash of lemon and have a cold lemonade. You can also increase the consumption of water-rich fruits and vegetables such as watermelon and celery.
The following lifestyle changes may help improve your skin’s hydration:
As we discussed before, the outer layer of the skin protects against transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Environmental and other factors may damage or alter this skin barrier, increasing the risk of dehydration. Some signs that your outer skin barrier is damaged:
Fortunately, you can improve the health of the skin’s barrier.
While moisturizing the skin looks like a no-brainer, selecting the right product is the key. Experts recommend a moisturizer that is thicker than a lotion and has a higher oil concentration.
You may find these moisturizers heavier or greasier, but they are extremely helpful for moisturizing dehydrated skin.
A cream can be a great option to moisturize unless you have hypersensitive skin.
It is best to look for skin care products with replenishing ingredients such as lipids, copper peptides, ceramides, and oatmeal. It also helps to avoid products with fragrance.
Ceramides and lipids replace defects in the barrier and provide the lost moisture. Oatmeal is soothing and hydrating. Hyaluronic acid maintains the moisture of the outer layer, and copper peptides allow moisture to penetrate deeper layers of the skin.
While a hot shower may be refreshing, heat takes away moisture from the skin. It’s best to shower with warm water and be out in less than ten minutes.
Leave your skin a little damp after the shower and apply a moisturizer on top. This allows you to seal the extra water into the skin.
Dehydration may cause itchiness. However, resist the temptation to scratch. It further damages the outer skin barrier.
If you feel the external environment is responsible for dehydration, a humidifier may help. It increases the air humidity so that the environment doesn’t suck moisture from the skin.
Dehydrated skin cannot regularly turn over the cells, accumulating dead cells on the topmost layer. Exfoliating will remove the build-up and allows the moisturizer to work more efficiently. However, exfoliate just once a week.
If your skin is sensitive, opt for an exfoliator with natural ingredients.
The serum offers an additional layer of moisture to the skin. You can opt for a serum with peptides or hyaluronic acid.
Slugging involves coating your skin with Vaseline before going to bed. It allows for sealing the moisture and provides a more nourished complexion.
External humidity and temperature can affect your skin’s health and moisture. Harsh winters can increase the risk of dehydration, making your skin cracked, itchy, and irritated.
Host showers and low humidity can also dehydrate your skin. Moisturize your skin and avoid long, hot showers.
Adding sunscreen can help during summer and spring.
Chemicals strip away your natural skin barrier, as well as the natural oils your skin produces. If your current products have chemicals, change them or stop using them.
It is also recommended to reduce the number of times you cleanse your skin as it damages the outer barrier.
Experts also advise staying away from acne products and retinol. Lastly, minimize the use of foundation and powder as they tend to absorb natural moisture and sebum from the skin.
The skin is sensitive to water loss and protects it using hydroregulation mechanisms.
Your skin can be dry, oily, or a combination of both. So, dry skin is a skin type.
On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a transient condition where the skin lacks water. Dry skin is often genetic, and you can’t avoid it.
Dehydration can be avoided by lifestyle factors and using topical applications.
Here are a few tips that may help:
Dehydrated skin can irritate you, but it can be managed once you know you have it. Follow the mentioned tips, and your skin will thank you.
The key is to moisturize the skin, drink enough water, and use chemical-free products.
We understand your problems. So, all Aleavia products are chemical-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients from the earth and sea.
]]>Does your skin feel tight or itchy? Or do you have rough skin and notice scaling or flaking? Or does your foundation look cakey?
If the answer to either question was a yes, you may have dry skin.
Dry skin is a skin type where it finds it difficult to retain the moisture needed to keep the skin smooth and supple.
The skin has a protective layer, which allows it to retain moisture. But the protective layer is damaged by aging or environmental pollution, resulting in dry skin. In many cases, dry skin is a genetic condition.
If you don’t use the right product, you may further reap your skin or moisture and damage it.
So, which is a good body wash for dry skin? Which body wash ingredients are effective, and which are harmful?
The post discusses selecting a body wash for dry skin, and the best 27 body washes recommended by experts.
The first thing to look for in a body wash is its ingredients.
Some ingredients beneficial for dry skin are:
A formula with natural oils such as vitamin E is an excellent option when looking for a product to hydrate your skin. Vitamin E supports the healing of your skin and protects it from damage.
It’s a natural compound in your skin that helps hold moisture, making it plump and hydrated. It’s also a great ingredient to fight signs of aging, including fine lines.
Glycerin is also naturally present in your skin and draws moisture from the atmosphere and supplies it to the outer layer of skin. It also strengthens the skin's protective barrier, allowing it to retain moisture.
On the other hand, here are a few ingredients that may damage the skin, and it’s best to avoid or limit their use:
These acids are chemical exfoliants that make your skin drier. However, they help remove the outer layer of skin with dead cells and impurities. So, you can use them once a week and avoid using them regularly.
Beloved as these ingredients may be, they can trigger irritation, itching, flaking, and redness.
If you select a body wash with retinoids or retinol to fight acne or signs of aging, follow it with a thick cream to counteract dryness.
Experts usually don’t prefer this ingredient unless you have acne.
These ingredients can strip your skin of moisture and oil.
It’s best to avoid body wash with fragrance, especially if you have eczema. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, any skin care product should be not only unscented but also fragrance-free if you have eczema.
We researched multiple body washes and selected the best 27 based on the following criteria:
Aleavia brand is well known for its all-natural formulations. This particular body wash includes honeysuckle essential oil, green tea extract, and organic raw honey.
The gentle, light lather draws toxins and dirt from your pores. At the same time, it releases nurturing prebiotics that is beneficial for your skin, giving a radiant complexion.
Organic coconut oil, aloe vera, Acadian sea kelp, and the Dead Sea salt infuses your skin with moisture.
Honeysuckle offers a subtle fragrance and is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and potassium. It also helps in reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Pros
Cons
Key ingredients include oat flour and glycerin.
As the body wash contains yogurt powder, it is creamy and offers moisture. Oat flour also soothes inflammation and moisturizes the skin.
The combination of yogurt and oat provides the probiotic effect and softens the skin.
However, it contains sulfates that are harmful to the skin, especially for those having sensitive skin. The vanilla fragrance may be irritating to people with eczema.
Pros
Cons
It is a dermatologist-tested body wash suitable for dry and sensitive skin. The body wash is also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
Key ingredients include glycerin, vitamin B5, and aloe vera. All these ingredients help in keeping your skin hydrated and smooth.
This gentle body wash is recommended for babies and adults with eczema. However, it has sulfates and is unsuitable for people with sensitive skin.
Pros
Cons
This body wash includes vitamin B3, petrolatum, and shea butter.
Petrolatum strengthens your skin’s barrier, shea butter offers a moisturizing effect, and vitamin B3 hydrates the skin.
The major downside of the body wash can be its fragrance if you have eczema or are allergic to it.
Pros
Cons
This is one of the best body washes as it includes all ingredients beneficial for dry skin, including ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.
And the best part…free of parabens, fragrances, and has the National Eczema Association seal of approval.
The major negative of the body wash is that it’s really thick, making it difficult to use.
Pros
Cons
The body wash includes vitamin B5 and glycerin. After Aleavia, we found this body wash free of all harmful ingredients. Glycerin and B5 retain moisture and soothe any irritation. The body wash has a good smell even though it’s fragrance-free.
However, many users don’t like the fact that the wash doesn’t lather.
Pros
Cons
Key ingredients of this body wash are glycerin, vitamin B3, and niacinamide, which are remarkable for moisturizing and skin barrier strengthening properties. It is approved by the National Eczema Association.
The ingredients also help with acne and hyperpigmentation.
This can be an excellent pick for individuals who have sensitive skin and love foaming face wash. It’s free of parabens and fragrance and is safe for babies.
Pros
Cons
This hydrating body wash includes aloe vera, glycerin, pomegranate extract, and coffee. These ingredients are vegan and safe to use in your nether regions. They neutralize the pH, making it an excellent option for use in intimate areas than other products with chemical ingredients.
According to the manufacturers, Kakadu plum extract, pomegranate extract, and coffee seed extract energize and soothe your skin.
Pros
Cons
With ingredients such as glycerin, licorice root extract, zinc pyrithione, and panthenol, this body wash helps flaking skin.
The best part…it can also be used as a shampoo and is effective against intense dandruff.
Don’t be surprised if you see that it is marketed for children and is as effective for adults. According to experts, the body wash is effective against redness, flaking, scaling, itching, and scalp irritation.
Pros
Cons
The ingredients glycerin, green tea extract, and vitamin E make this body wash a great pick for people with dry skin suffering from acne. It’s also a good option for people with allergies and eczema.
Users feel this is a luxurious body wash for people with acne. However, make sure to select the fragrance-free version as it is also available with eucalyptus scent.
Pros
Cons
Love a body wash that foams and gives soft and smooth skin? Try Dove.
The ingredients sodium lauroyl glutamate, lauric acid, and glycerin are self-foaming and hydrating. It cleanses your skin and offers moisture without leaving a greasy layer. The pump is easy to use, and it’s affordable as compared to other products.
However, the body wash contains fragrance, and you should avoid it if you are sensitive to it.
Pros
Cons
This body wash is an excellent option for anyone looking for a body wash with natural ingredients but packed with oils.
Organic oils in the body wash are olive oil, avocado oil, green tea, and more. It is free from sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and other chemicals.
The body wash has a light natural scent, and you can avoid it if you don’t want any smell.
Pros
Cons
The body wash is rich in natural oils and omega that help you get rid of dry and flaky skin. It offers a mild lather and is free from fragrance. The natural oils strengthen the skin barrier, making your skin healthy and radiant.
The downside of the body wash is its sulfate content, which may irritate sensitive skin.
Pros
Cons
Benzoyl peroxide is the hero ingredient and an excellent pick for people with dry skin suffering from acne. It will fight the current pimples and prevent them from occurring. The moisturizing ingredients glycerin and lactic acid prevent your skin from drying.
Pros
Cons
As the name suggests, the body wash is approved by the National Eczema Association. The ingredients aloe vera, jojoba seed oil, and chamomilla flower extract hydrate your skin. Moreover, oatmeal in the wash soothes irritated skin and maybe a blessing in disguise for people with eczema.
Pros
Cons
Again, an excellent option for people struggling with dry skin and acne. The primary ingredient is gluconolactone, a mild exfoliant suitable for sensitive skin. It also offers hydration and keeps your skin supple.
It also includes Colloidal Silver, which fights bacteria and other infections. However, this body wash may not be as gentle as the other body washes on the list.
Pros
Cons
The ingredients papaya and pomegranate are rich in lactic acid that cleanses and hydrates your skin. The mandelic acid, a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), also has skin-brightening properties.
Citrus provides a mild natural fragrance and leaves your skin feeling rejuvenated. The body wash is cruelty-free and is suitable for all skin types. Fruit enzymes in the wash accelerate the skin renewal process.
Pros
Cons
As you may have guessed, the body wash is suitable for ultra-sensitive skin. It is also approved by National Eczema Association.
Oat extract and glycerin soothe and moisturize the skin without causing any irritation. It provides foam and thoroughly cleanses your skin. And the best part…it is fragrance-free.
Pros
Cons
Users report that coconut and almond milk smells out of the world. So, it can be an excellent option for people with dry skin who are not sensitive or allergic to natural scents.
Glycerin and plant-derived oils, including sunflower seed, sweet almond, and soybean, hydrate your skin without leaving a greasy layer.
Your skin feels supple, soft, and refreshed with a subtle tropical scent.
Pros
Cons
The body wash includes glycolic and salicylic acid that helps you get rid of breakouts. Date seeds in the wash allow removing the skin's dead layers without damaging it.
Allantoin and Blue Lotus Extract help soothe skin and reduce the appearance of acne-related redness.
The body wash is cruelty-free and safe for all skin types.
Pros
Cons
This body cleanser contains natural oils such as sweet almonds, marula oil, and sacha inchi seed oils. It also includes a multi-amino-acid blend that offers hydration. The blend of ingredients makes it a great choice, even for sensitive skin.
The body wash offers a light lather and leaves your skin conditioned. It has a natural scent and is not a problem for individuals with sensitive skin.
Pros
Cons
The wash is a hydrating formula containing prickly pear extract, fatty acids, and lipids. The foamy wash wraps your skin and leaves it supple after washing it off.
The natural cleanser nourishes your skin and restores its natural glow. It also prevents breakouts and is suitable to use on the face. However, many users report breakout after using the body wash.
Pros
Cons
This plant-based body wash has the hero ingredient, organic murumuru butter, which is similar to coconut oil. It has a subtle scent and is silicone- and sulfate-free. As the name suggests, the body wash is skin and planet-friendly.
Pros
Cons
The body has a thick, lotion-like texture that is made up of shea butter, cocoa butter, and marshmallow root extract. It’s one of the best options for someone who has dry skin throughout the year.
The consistency of the wash makes your skin smooth and extra soft and fights any itching or redness.
Pros
Cons
Does your dry skin itch a lot? Do you have to control the urge to itch your skin? If yes, this body wash is for you.
The blend of jojoba and olive oils soothes and calms your skin. It also helps with itching that’s associated with eczema.
The nourishing formula also fights itch-causing bacteria. All this makes this body wash one of the best washes for itchy skin.
Pros
Cons
The body wash that’s loved by families! Ingredients such as vitamin E and glycerin hydrate the skin. The wash has a moisturizing and creamy foam that instantly turns your dry skin into soft and smooth.
Pros
Cons
So, here you have the list of 27 body washes suitable for dry skin. We hope this post helped you find an appropriate option for your skin.
When you’re ready to start nourishing your skin from the inside out, shop our premium line of organic, prebiotic skincare products here.
]]>Even with organic skincare products, starting a new skincare routine may result in dry patches, redness, or abnormally frequent breakouts.
Don’t panic! You may be a subject to a totally normal phenomenon called “skin purging.” It’s not necessarily a sign you should stop your new skincare routine.
However, sometimes it is an actual breakout, perhaps due to an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in your new regimen.
So how can you tell the difference between skin purging or normal breakouts, and how do you handle each scenario in a way that best nurtures your skin?
In this post, we’ll answer everything you could ever want to know about skin purging. By the end, you should have a solid understanding of:
Let’s dive in!
Skin purging refers to the skin’s reaction to a substance that boosts the cell’s turnover. In other words, your skin is both producing new cells and shedding dead skin cells at a faster rate.
This causes all the oil, bacteria, and grime under the surface layer of your skin to be brought to the surface.
However, the good news is purging is short-lived as compared to your typical acne breakouts.
Besides, it’s a sign that the products you’ve introduced are working!
[For more tips on treating oily skin, check out our post on how to start a skincare routine for oily skin here]
In most cases, purging looks like tiny red bumps that are painful to touch. You may even notice blackheads or whiteheads, which is why many people confuse it with a traditional acne breakout.
Skin purging can also cause your skin to be flaky. However, as mentioned before, indications of skin purging are temporary, and they heal much more quickly than typical acne.
You’ll likely see purging when you start a new product that includes chemical exfoliants or retinoids.
These products boost the rate at which your skin sheds dead cells and replace them with new ones. It can also be associated with procedures such as chemical peels.
You can think of it as the process where your skin brings up the gunk from the deeper skin layers to get rid of it.
When the skin pushes dirt, sebum, and bacteria out of your pores, you may notice bumps similar to a breakout.
As frustrating as the new crop of blemishes might be, it’s a sign that the product is working.
Skin purging occurs if the ingredients in your new skincare routine encourage your skin’s gunk to move towards the surface.
The process is beneficial as it hastens the removal of dead skin cells and dirt that clog the pores (this is sometimes called skin cell turnover).
While it is not possible to control the process, you can stick to a natural skincare routine to avoid further inflammation.
This means using a sulfate-free cleanser, a soothing, chemical-free moisturizer, sunscreen, and the exfoliant that’s causing your skin to purge.
You may feel like completely stopping the exfoliant, but resist this temptation.
If a doctor or a specialist has recommended a retinoid or exfoliant, it’s for a reason. Stick through the phase, and it will get better.
There’s no single answer to this question. In most adults, your skin may take about 28 days for skin cells to turnover. However, this rate slows down as you age. Skin purging can last between four to six weeks depending on your skin type and genetics.
If your skin doesn’t clear up after this period, it is recommended to consult a specialist.
No. It’s not always possible to prevent purging. It’s a process where your skin eliminates the dirt in the deeper layers before exposing the new skin underneath.
However, the good news is that you can minimize the symptoms by implementing the following tips:
You may not like the answer, but the best treatment for purging is to wait. Depending on your skin, it may take about two to three weeks for the purge to settle.
Meanwhile, you can treat the skin the same way you would during a breakout, including:
When you introduce a new product to your routine, you may notice breakouts.
While it may seem that the product is causing your skin to break out, exfoliation of the skin causes the acne symptoms already forming under the skin to pop up sooner.
So, acne was already present, a purge speeds up the process, and you see a pimple sooner.
Some common types are:
Once your skin has started to purge, there’s not much you can do except be patient. The tips mentioned above can help:
Here’s the fundamental difference between skin purging and a breakout:
Skin purging is a necessary complication when starting a new product, while the breakouts are unnecessary (and sometimes preventable).
Purging |
Break out |
Occurs where you usually break out |
Occurs in a new place where you don’t usually break out |
Settles faster than a pimple |
Takes about eight to ten days to appear and shrink |
Moreover, a reaction that is not from chemical exfoliants or retinoids is more likely a breakout. It is best to stop using the product in such cases as your skin is sensitive to it.
Purging is neither good nor bad. However, it’s a sign that the newly-introduced products are working.
In some cases, skin purging can occur if the skin barrier is compromised before starting to use a product. In such cases, it’s a good idea to repair the barrier function and gradually introduce the product.
As discussed before, there’s nothing much you can do once the purging has started.
The following can help:
If the indications do not resolve after a month or increase in intensity, it is best to visit a dermatologist.
Usually, the symptoms of purging may last for three to four weeks. This is because your skin takes about 28 days for the skin cells to turnover.
The end of skin purging is a good sign. It’s a sign that brighter, clearer, and smoother skin is on its way.
As discussed before, skin purges when a product speeds up the cellular turnover. It is commonly seen in products used for exfoliation and fight signs of aging.
Some common products include:
Retinol
It is a derivative of vitamin A, which speeds up the cellular turnover rate to smooth wrinkles and fine lines, fade hyperpigmentation, reform skin texture, and manage acne.
You can use a gentler form of retinol to prevent purging or keep the symptoms minimal.
Exfoliating Acids (AHAs and BHAs)
They are two types of chemical exfoliants. BHAs reach deep to the surface, while the action of AHAs is limited only to the surface. For the same reason, BHAs are present in products treating acne, and AHAs are present in brightening peels and facials.
Both the acids trigger the turnover causing your skin to purge.
Vitamin C
It is an antioxidant with mild exfoliating properties that hasten cellular turnover. While purging is least common with vitamin C, some may notice the symptoms before getting a skin glow.
It may take about three to four weeks for your skin to purge and subside. You may start noticing some indications by the second week. However, these symptoms are temporary and reduce within a month.
There are a few things to consider while figuring this out:
As discussed above, your skin purges to remove the dirt and bacteria present in the deeper layer of your skin. This usually occurs with the use of an exfoliant or retinoid.
Yes. With skin purging, your skin gets worse before it gets better. However, it doesn’t happen in all cases. Besides, the absence of purging doesn’t mean the product isn’t working. It all depends on your skin and the product you’re using.
By now, you may already know what purging is. It’s a process where the new skin products boost your cell’s turnover, causing pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, dry skin, or pustules.
On the other hand, irritation is an allergic reaction to a new product or sensitivity to an ingredient in the products. In this case, the rash appears almost immediately after using the product. The rash can be itchy, hot, or burning, which is not the case with purging.
If you have symptoms of irritation, it’s recommended to stop using the product immediately, which is not the case with purging. With the latter, you need to be patient while the symptoms subside.
Three to four weeks may look like a lot to take when your skin is purging. Trying the following tips may help:
If you want the benefits of retinoids and other exfoliants but don’t want your skin to purge, you can follow the “ease in” method.
For instance, apply the product twice a week in the first week. You can gradually increase the frequency in the coming weeks. This allows your skin to adapt to the ingredient.
While purging may sound terrifying, it’s not the case. Besides, the process is beneficial.
It means:
Just be patient. During this period, don’t pop your acne or pick your skin. Moisturize the affected area and use sun protection before going out in the sun.
No. In most cases, purging subsides by six weeks. If it’s taking longer than six weeks, visit your dermatologist and stop using the product.
As annoying as skin purging can be, it will be worth it once your skin adapts to the new skin care routine.
And once the indications of purging subside, youthful and clear skin is waiting beneath the surface,
We hope this article helped you understand skin purging and answered all your questions.
Consider checking out our products if you’re ready to ditch the chemicals and go all-natural in your skin care, and reduce the chance of skin purging.
All Aleavia products are chemical-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients from the earth and sea.
]]>This post is a comprehensive guide on how to use body scrub for smoother and more beautiful-looking skin.
Let’s dive in!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Want to prolong your tan, prevent ingrown hairs, or improve the effectiveness of your moisturizer for a more hydrated skin?
One answer to all these problems is a body scrub.
A body scrub is a type of exfoliant that removes dead cells built up on the outermost layer of your skin.
Let's dive deeper into how to use body scrubs (and how exactly they help).
But before go into the benefits of body scrubs, it’s essential to know that the best body scrub is the one with organic and natural ingredients. Scrubs with natural ingredients are not only more sustainable and effective but healthier and better for the environment.
With this in mind, let’s explore everything there is to know about body scrubs and how best to use them.
A body scrub is a physical exfoliant used to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and other particles from the skin.
When dirt, grime, and other toxins block your pores, your skin can look dull. These blockages also increase the risk of clogged pores, which lead to acne.
Body scrubs loosen and remove dead skin particles to reveal the beautiful skin hidden beneath them.
In fact, it's a crucial step in any natural skincare routine.
Scrubs include tiny particles mixed in a thick paste to cleanse the skin and remove dead skin cells.
Even though your skin can clear dead cells on its own (eventually), a body scrub helps you get smoother and softer skin faster.
Here’s a fun fact about body scrubs:
Ancient Egyptians created body scrubs with aromatic oils to counteract the desert heat and keep the skin supple.
So, when you use a body scrub, you’re tapping into a centuries-old skincare technique.
As we discussed before, an exfoliating body scrub mechanically sloughs the dead skin and impurities from the outermost layer of the skin.
It does this through abrasive ingredients (such as sugar or salt) that are designed to clear the skin of dead skin cells or toxins.
Here are a few benefits of regular scrubbing:
The tiny particles in the scrub remove dead skin cells, giving a clearer-looking skin. It also evens out your tone and makes your skin softer.
Are you fed up with ingrown hairs after shaving, waxing, or plucking your skin? A body scrub can help by drawing them out and preventing ingrown hairs.
Most scrubs have essential and scented oils that soften unwanted hair on your face, making it easier to remove.
As your exfoliating body scrub removes dead and dull skin cells, your skin can absorb moisturizers more readily. Better absorption of a moisturizer means more hydrated and healthy skin.
When dead cells clog pores, it results in blemishes and hyperpigmentation. Removing the dead cells improves your skin tone and reduces the appearance of dark spots.
Clearing the dead cells with a body scrub unclogs the pores. It can also help minimize the appearance of large pores.
Keratosis pilaris is a build-up of keratin, a hair protein, in the pores. This clogs the pores and opens the blocks the growth of hair follicles.
A body scrub aids in clearing the build-up keratin, giving you softer and more beautiful-looking skin.
Using a body scrub before the shave makes hair removal easier, preventing bumps. Using a body scrub after the shave clears the pores, allowing the hair to grow appropriately and preventing it from growing inwards.
As discussed before, body scrubs clears dry and dead skin from the outer layer of the skin, exposing the brightened, refreshed, and smooth skin beneath.
For this benefit, choose a body scrub known for its skin smoothening benefits, such as avocados (more on this in the fifth point!).
With bending, leaning, and planking, knees and elbows may be the most challenging part to smooth out. However, using body scrubs followed by a moisturizer work wonders.
The final benefit of scrub is that it helps you de-stress. Using a body scrub allows you to spend time with yourself. Besides, the massage-like movements offer a relaxing experience.
Ready to get scrubbing?
Here are five steps to start using your body scrub:
The key to the great results is to prep your skin.
An easy way to do this is to take a warm shower before scrubbing. Here, the goal is to dampen your skin and open the pores for optimal benefits (warm water is excellent for this). It will also soften your dead skin cells, making it easier to remove them.
If you are planning to shave, using a scrub beforehand reduces the chances of irritation. Damping your skin will also allow a cleaner shave as dirt surrounding the hair follicles is lifted.
Apply a generous amount of body scrub on the damp skin and massage in circular motions in a standing position. It’s a good idea to apply the scrub from the top of the body to the bottom, and always apply to the skin gently.
The benefit of this method is two-fold:
To boost the action of the scrub, you can use a brush, loofah, or pad. Using these tools increases the exfoliating action of the scrub.
However, remember to use gentler movements with these tools than you would with your hand, as aggressive scrubbing may irritate your skin.
Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse the scrub off in the hot bath or shower. Repeat the massaging movements (in a circular motion) to remove the excess particles. Moreover, it’s best to rinse in the same order you applied it.
The last step is to pat yourself dry. Follow this with your favorite moisturizer or body oil to boost hydration.
Now that you know how to use the scrub, let’s look at the types of exfoliating body scrubs available.
Sugar granules are rounder than salt and, therefore, gentler on the skin. Sugar is a natural source of glycolic acid.
This compound breaks down the dead layer of skin cells, smoothing the skin’s surface and helping with skin cell turnover. Sugar also hastens rehydration.
These reasons make sugar scrubs the best option for dehydrated skin.
Salt has grittier particles and is ideal for smoothing rough areas such as elbows and feet. Salt also boosts blood circulation and skin turnover, revitalizing your skin.
Not sure whether to use a salt or sugar scrub?
We have good news:
Many scrubs include both salt and sugar, giving you the best of both worlds.
Benefits of salt and sugar scrub
If you’ve got a bit of time and want to experiment with some other ingredients, going DIY is a great choice.
DIY scrubs — as we’ll explore in the next section — let you fine-tune your scrub ingredients precisely to your liking.
You can also include ingredients to which your skin responds well. Conversely, you can remove ingredients that irritate your skin or cause adverse effects.
Let’s jump into some recipes for DIY body scrubs.
Here are a few DIY recipes for making scrubs at home
Start with mixing coffee grounds with water. Add the warm coconut oil to this mixture. You can add more oil or coffee grounds to get the right consistency.
Just as above, mix brown sugar with coconut oil. Add honey to the mixture and mix thoroughly. You can add oil or sugar to get the right consistency.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly. You can add either ingredient to get the desired consistency.
There are many body scrubs available in the market. However, we recommend those with natural ingredients. These ingredients are effective, safe for your skin, and good for the environment.
As you do your research, keep an eye out for these ingredients in body scrubs (and all skincare products).
Himalayan salt has naturally occurring minerals that are beneficial for your skin. The best part about salt-based scrubs is that they dissolve just by scrubbing. So, you don’t have to worry about over-exfoliating.
A scrub with Himalayan salt combined with a natural oil such as olive oil can help hydrate skin. This can be an excellent option for dry skin. If you like scented scrubs, look for added essential oils such as calendula or lavender.
Coffee granules with coconut oil or shea butter gently exfoliate the skin and keep it hydrated. It also aids in cellulite removal.
Besides, coffee is an antioxidant that fights signs of aging and lowers the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage.
It is mild on the skin and keeps it rejuvenated.
However, those with oily skin should use these ingredients with caution, as they can stimulate the natural production of skin oils.
Walnut is one of the best ingredients for dull and dry skin. It is primarily a part of sugar scrub and aids in minimizing pores, removing stubborn blackheads, and adding moisture to the skin.
All in all, it makes your skin youthful and softer in no time. However, it may have an unpleasant smell.
Fine-grain dead sea salt usually comes mixed with organic essential oils. This salt does it all, from keeping your skin soft to exfoliating your feet and elbows.
It also reduces the appearance of stretch marks, dark spots, and acne scars.
A body scrub aids in relaxation and keeps your skin revitalized. You may feel like using it daily. However, exfoliation takes time.
Most dermatologists and skin care professionals do not recommend using a scrub more than two to three times per week.
This frequency will keep your skin balanced and prevent irritation. However, you know your skin the best. You can choose the frequency that suits you the best.
An essential point to remember here is to be consistent. Use the body scrub regularly for best results. Body scrubs are generally helpful for all skin types.
While this is a personal choice, we recommend using a scrub on wet skin. This prevents friction and supports better circular massage-like movements for exfoliation.
Apply the scrub right after using soap or a body wash for a relaxing experience.
Don’t keep the scrub on your skin for more than 30 seconds. Massage the scrub and remove it using hot or lukewarm water.
A body scrub aids in the removal of old, dead cells from the surface. This can lighten your skin and remove pigmented spots.
Yes, removing dirt and bacteria from your pores aids in managing breakouts and preventing them from recurring. However, they may not be helpful for cystic or hormonally-induced acne.
If you’re applying a self-tanner, a scrub aids in better absorption to achieve the results without the streaks.
However, if you have hyperpigmented spots due to sun exposure, a scrub can lighten them by removing the dead cells from the outermost skin layer.
Yes. As mentioned before, a body scrub can remove dark spots or lighten them. They work by removing the dead cells and dirt from the pores, exposing the new skin beneath.
The body scrub is a type of physical exfoliator. It aids in removing or lightening the dark spots.
As with a body scrub, it’s best to scrub your face twice or thrice a week. Again, consistency is the key.
Scrubs with glycolic acid work best for dark spots. They help loosen the glue between colored and dead skin cells, giving a brighter and lighter skin tone.
Dark armpits may be due to the accumulation of dead skin cells. Scrubs aid in skin cell turnover by removing the dead cells and lightening the skin.
Some ingredients that help acne scars are honey and coconut oil — however, most scrubs aid in improving scars because of their action on dead skin cells and dirt.
You should avoid a body scrub in the following situations:
A body scrub is excellent for dead and dull-looking skin. It removes the dead cells, exposing the new skin underneath.
No. A scrub cannot make your skin darker unless you use a harsh scrub on injured or sensitive areas. Most scrubs help in reducing the dark spots and improve your skin tone.
Well, there you have it!
You may be wondering if a scrub is good for you and how to use it. We hope this article helped you understand why a scrub is essential for your skin. Incorporate it into your skincare routine and see the difference in your skin.
Consider checking out our products if you’re ready to ditch the chemicals and go all-natural in your skincare.
All Aleavia products are chemical-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients from the earth and sea.
]]>This post is a comprehensive guide on creating the best natural skincare routine for black skin.
Use the table of contents below to navigate the guide, and don’t forget to shop our natural skincare products when you’re done reading and ready to get started.
Let’s dive in!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Everyone is different, and so is their skin. If everyone’s skin is different, it logically follows that you’ll need a skincare routine tailored to your specific skin type.
Specifically, black skin contains more melanin pigment than lighter skin and needs a different regimen.
Melanin-producing cells are more prone to injury and inflammation. Some common problems people with black skin face include acne, dark spots, and inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema.
The good news:
You can build a natural skincare routine that suits your skin type — all without toxins, synthetic chemicals, or unhealthy additives. This article talks about how black skin is unique and natural products you can include in your daily regimen.
Melanin is a pigment that gives your skin its unique color. While most skincare ingredients remain common, some physiological differences need consideration if you have a more richly-melanated skin.
Specialists use the Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype (FST) scale to classify melanin levels and the skin response to sunlight.
The scale starts at FST 1, which is a very light skin that never tans but always burns, and extends to FST 6, which has the deepest melanin level with more built-in sun protection.
As discussed above, melanin-producing skin is more prone to injury to inflammation. This may cause stubborn pigmentation, uneven tone, and more pronounced scarring.
Also, dry skin can tend to be more pronounced on darker skin tones, resulting in a gray or “ashy” appearance and
Ceramide is present in the upper skin layers to provide the skin hydrated and smooth. Usually, black skin has low levels of ceramides.
However, darker skin has better compactness of structural skin elements which offers resilience against environmental pollutants.
Let’s understand some common skin concerns.
The following skin factors can cause an uneven tone in black skin:
While these problems are also seen in white skin, they are more likely with melanin-rich skin.
In such cases, Arbutin, niacinamide, bakuchiol, and retinol can help as they have tone-evening and brightening properties. It is best to add more than one of these ingredients as they work in different ways.
Regardless of skin color, it is essential to wear sun protection rated 30 or greater — even on days when you’re not going to the beach or lounging by the pool!
People of particular ethnicities are more likely to have dark circles around their eyes. While this is an inherited trait, you may take certain precautions to reduce their appearance.
Sun protection and the ingredients mentioned above can help.
Research shows that darker skin tones behave differently during a breakout. Acne tends to leave stubborn marks which affects darker skin differently than light skin.
A gentle cleanser and leave-on ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can help.
Now that you know how black skin is different and its common concerns let’s look at building a routine that suits you the best.
One more crucial aspect of the skincare routine is the order of the regimen.
For instance, using a moisturizer before washing your face will reduce its effectiveness and may even clog your pores.
Usually, the order for a daily skincare routine is as follows:
A cleanser is a critical part of any skin regimen. It washes off the dirt and toxins your skin may be exposed to during the day. It also removes dirt and prevents clogging of your pores.
It is best to use a non-comedogenic cleanser for black skin, especially if you have acne-prone skin.
How to use:
Wash your face in the morning and night with warm water. Use a gentle, non-soap cleanser to wash your face.
Use your fingers to massage it in a circular motion. Continue this for 30 seconds and rinse with warm water.
Pat your face dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing the skin or using a dirty towel.
Common Ingredients in cleansers:
Alternative natural ingredients to look for:
If you’re looking for an all-natural, prebiotic face cleanser, check our Purifying Face Cleanse!
Toner usually balances the skin’s pH and removes any residue after cleansing.
However, the right toner also works as a temporary tightener that shrinks your pores and frees oil, dirt, and other impurities.
Besides, it cleans your skin to absorb creams and serums better.
How to use:
The most efficient way of using the toner is to apply it with clean hands.
You can take a few drops on your palm and apply it to your face. Alternatively, you can apply it using a cotton pad. Pat the cotton on your face, including the nose, chin, and forehead.
Common Ingredients:
Alternative natural ingredients to look for:
Hydrating your face with a facial serum gives you extra hydration and a more youthful appearance.
The right serum can help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots. All this makes the skin plump, smooth, and even.
How to use:
Take a small amount of serum and pat it on the skin with your fingertips. Avoid massaging it and allow your skin to absorb it naturally.
Common Ingredients:
Most available facial serums are retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. But it is best to avoid lighteners such as B3. Dark skin has more melanin, and strong lightening agents may cause the skin to look blotchy. Mild brightening serums work best for black skin.
Alternative natural ingredients to look for:
Keeping your skin moisturized is the key to that youthful and radiant look.
Moisturizers imitate and support your skin’s natural oil production. It’s that simple!
By trapping moisture, they also prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moisturizers also help in keeping your skin firm and plump.
They play a crucial role for black skin as it has low ceramide levels, which offer hydration to the skin. Besides, black skin loses moisture quicker than lighter skin tones.
How to use:
Apply a small amount of moisturizer to the face using your fingertips. Gently massage to help your skin absorb the cream.
Common Ingredients:
Alternative natural ingredients to look for:
Many believe that dark skin doesn’t require sunscreen as melanin offer skin protection. However, this is not correct. All types of skin need sunscreen.
For melanin-rich skin, you can wear sun protection rated 30 or greater. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that even dark skin can get burned on cloudy days, so it’s essential to wear SPF daily.
However, sunscreens are one of the most notorious skincare products with harmful chemicals, so be sure to do your research and choose a natural alternative.
How to use:
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and reapply at least every two hours.
Common Ingredients:
Alternative natural ingredients to look for:
Pro-tip: It’s best to leave a few minutes between each skincare step. It allows optimal absorption of each product.
Here are some common natural ingredients that benefit dark skin:
Some facial products that can help common black skin concerns include:
Vitamin C has multiple health benefits as it is an antioxidant. It aids in repairing skin damage caused by environmental pollutants and the sun. Studies have shown that vitamin C application can minimize the effect of UV rays on the skin.
Vitamin C also has skin-healing properties making it a favorite of all women, including those with dark skin.
Dark skin can easily crack. The healing properties of vitamin C protect the skin and keep it smooth and healthy. Vitamin C also triggers collagen production, preventing premature aging of the skin.
Yes, vitamin C has brightening properties that fade dark spots without affecting the pigmentation of the surrounding skin, providing an even tone
The best part…
When used regularly, vitamin C prevents the formation of dark spots.
The best thing to keep your skin healthy and improve your complexion is building a skin routine curated for you and following it daily.
In addition to the mentioned tips, keeping yourself hydrated and having a healthy diet helps. And of course, don’t forget sun protection!
The main causes of uneven tone are sun exposure, aging, hormones, and medications.
Tips that may come in handy include:
Dark skin is unique and needs special care. Using the right ingredient in your skincare can do wonders and help you get rid of uneven skin, dark spots, and other common concerns.
Natural products are better as the black skin is sensitive and more prone to dryness.
To help you, all Aleavia products are chemical-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients from the earth and sea.
You can easily use them without worrying about any of the side effects associated with synthetic skincare products.
We hope this post has been helpful in getting you started with your own skincare routine best suited for your skin!
]]>This post is the definitive guide to crafting the perfect natural skin care routine for oily skin.
When you’re done reading, check out our selection of natural skincare products that you can start using in your routine today.
If you find yourself struggling with excess oil on your face, that “greasy” feeling at the end of the day, or persistent acne breakouts, it may be time to rethink your skincare routine.
Healthy, vibrant skin starts with following a skincare regime that’s suited to your skin type.
First, let’s talk about what causes oily skin.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Oily skin is caused by overactive sebaceous glands on the skin. These glands secrete sebum, an important substance in keeping the skin radiant, fresh, and hydrated.
However, due to a genetic predisposition, an unsuitable skincare routine, or even your diet, these glands can overproduce oil. This excess of oil clogs pores and causes acne breakouts.
Following a natural skincare routine is essential if you have oily skin. It not only reduces your skin’s “greasy” appearance but also leaves your skin looking fresh and vibrant.
For a deeper dive on the specifics of natural skincare, check out our introductory post on how to start the perfect natural skincare routine.
Here’s a recap of the essential steps in a natural skincare routine, and products specifically designed for oily skin.
As we discussed in our post about starting a natural skincare routine, half of what makes a good routine is the order in which you do it.
Cleansing — purging your skin of all toxins, dirt, grime, and junk it’s exposed to throughout the day — should always be your first step.
Multan Mitti (otherwise known as Indian Healing Clay) and gram flour are two excellent natural cleansers for oily skin. Due to their texture and composition, they natural absorb cleanse and remove excess oil and grime from the face.
Follow this recipe to make your own natural cleanser:
While it may not be practical to make this cleanser every day, make it a priority to apply it least a few times a week (especially before a long day of activity where oil production is likely to be higher).
Honey is an excellent humectant and has qualities that lock moisture within the skin. In addition to controlling oil production, the yummy treat can also help prevent breakouts, allergies, and infections.
Use it as a cleanser by mixing one tablespoon of brown sugar into one tablespoon of honey. Cleanse the skin two to three times a week to see results.
A toner works as a temporary tightener that shrinks your pores and frees oil, dirt, and other impurities.
The combination of green tea and tea tree oil can do wonders to make your skin soft, supple, and oil-free. You can make this natural toner by mixing one tablespoon of tea tree oil into green tea powder or finely ground leaves. Clean your face gently with it every day to control excess oil on the skin.
Vitamin C helps reduce dark spots and control oil on your skin. Apply it in the morning or night before sleep to make your skin radiant and oil-free.
If you’re prone to oily skin, you may be tempted to avoid the next two steps (hydration and moisturization). After all, why add moisture to your already oily skin?
The problem is that overactive sebaceous glands will produce even more oil to counter-act dry skin. Therefore, hydrating and moisturizing the skin gives the glands a break and helps them not overproduce oils.
A great natural hydration formula is some aloe vera mixed with some rosewater (or just plain water). The plant’s natural healing properties work wonders to hydrate the skin.
P.S., we love aloe vera and use it in all our products, including our Purifying Facial Cleanser!
Aloe vera has the double benefit of being great for both hydration and moisturization. So if you applied it in the previous step, you’re good to go!
While the sun does provide crucial vitamin D to your skin and body, UV rays and sun damage are one of the biggest obstacles to youthful, healthy skin.
Check out this great Healthline article on the best natural sunscreens for every skin type.
Exfoliating is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a granular substance. Exfoliation aids in removing bacteria, unclogging pores, and maintaining the skin’s balance.
Exfoliation is helpful for oily skin because it removes all the junk trapped on the surface of your skin, such as dead skin cells, toxins, and dirt.
Exfoliating once a week is an excellent way to smooth your skin texture, improve absorption rate, and brighten your complexion. Use the following as your natural exfoliant:
If you’re interested in particular recipes, check out these 15 homemade scrubs for oily skin.
Related post: How to Use Body Scrub: Everything You Need to Know
Natural face masks are an essential part of the natural skincare routine for oily skin. They not only help open pores but also hydrate and tighten the skin. DIY clay masks are excellent ways to improve the texture of oily skin.
Toner helps balance the pH level of your skin especially when you use it after cleansing. It clears germs that are left on the skin. However, avoid using toners that contain alcohol or ingredients like peppermints or camphor as they may dry out the skin and stimulate sebaceous glands even more.
What you eat has a direct effect on the health of your skin. This is a scientific fact, and medical researchers have a name for it: “the gut-skin axis.”
To improve your skincare routine you need to avoid foods like hot sauce, refined flour, sugar, dairy, and even coffee.
Dermatologists recommend eating food that is rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients to nourish skin from the inside out.
Here is a list of face masks you can use to make your skin look fresh and reduce oil on the face naturally.
Having oily skin is both a blessing and a curse. Oil production helps strengthen hair follicles, giving your hair a rich, luscious sheen. It also helps mitigate wrinkles as you age, and even has more natural sun protection.
However, left unchecked, oily skin can produce that nasty greasy feeling and make it look like you just sweat through an intense workout, as well as cause clogged pores and acne breakouts.
The good news is you don’t need to turn to chemical-laden products for a solution. Everything you need is in nature.
If you want to learn more about prebiotic skincare, check out our post on the topic here. When you’re ready, shop our all-natural prebiotic skincare products and see the difference for yourself!
]]>This post is a comprehensive guide on how you can create the best natural skin care routine for your skin.
Use the table of contents below to navigate the guide, and don’t forget to shop our natural skin care products when you’re done reading and ready to get started.
Let’s dive in!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Today, we know more than ever before how synthetic chemicals in skin care and cosmetics negatively affect our health.
Even more prominent brands are moving towards natural, microbiome-friendly skin care products.
And rightly so. The FDA is constantly recalling beauty products due to harmful chemicals.
If you are still relying on chemical-laden products as a part of your skin care, it’s time to switch to a natural skin care routine.
It’s also a great option if you have sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Let’s start by going over the essential steps in every skin care routine.
One thing to know about skin care routines is that order is everything.
For instance, using a moisturizer before washing your face will reduce its effectiveness and may even clog your pores.
As we walk through each step, we’ll talk through how it helps your skin, how to do it properly, some commonly used ingredients, and their natural alternatives.
Usually, the order for a daily skincare routine is as follows:
A natural cleanser is the heart of any skin regimen. Your skin goes through a lot every day. It’s constantly exposed to toxins, oil, dirt, and other junk.
Washing your face keeps your skin clean and frees it from any impurities.
Plus, it removes makeup, which may clog your pores.
Wash your face twice a day to avoid clogged pores, acne, and dull-looking skin.
The first step is soaking your face in warm water. Then, apply a small amount of cleanser to your face. Use your fingers to massage it in a circular motion. Continue this for 30 seconds and rinse with warm water.
Pat your face dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing the skin or using a dirty towel.
If you’re looking for an all-natural, prebiotic face cleanser, check our Purifying Face Cleanser!
Most people tend to ignore this step. However, using a toner makes a world of difference, especially when it comes to keeping your skin refreshed and vitalized.
A toner works as a temporary tightener that shrinks your pores and frees oil, dirt, and other impurities.
Besides, it cleans your skin to absorb the rest of the products in your routine.
The most efficient way of using the toner is to apply it with clean hands.
You can take a few drops on your palm and apply it to your face. Alternatively, you can apply it using a cotton pad. Pat the cotton on your face, including the nose, chin, and forehead.
Hydrating your face with a facial serum gives you extra hydration and antioxidant protection for a more youthful appearance.
The right serum has the following benefits:
Take a small amount of serum and pat it on the skin with your fingertips. Avoid massaging it and allow your skin to absorb it naturally.
Most available facial serums are retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. Let’s understand a bit more about them:
Keeping your skin moisturized is the key to that youthful and radiant look.
Moisturizers have one very simple job: to imitate and support your skin’s natural oil production. It’s that simple!
By trapping moisture, they also prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moisturizers also help in keeping your skin firm and plump.
Apply a small amount of moisturizer to the face using your fingertips. Gently massage to help your skin absorb the cream.
You may think sunscreen is only for beach trips or poolside lounging, but here’s the thing: the sun never takes a day off.
While the sun does provide crucial vitamin D to your skin and body, UV rays and sun damage are one of the biggest obstacles to youthful, healthy skin.
However, sunscreens are one of the most notorious skincare products with harmful chemicals, so be sure to do your research and choose a natural alternative.
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply at least every two hours.
Pro-tip: It’s best to leave a few minutes between each skincare step. It allows optimal absorption of each product.
Adding the following steps into your skincare regimen can further enhance the health and radiance of your skin.
And the best part? You don’t have to do them daily.
Let’s have a look at them.
Exfoliating is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a granular substance. Exfoliation aids in removing bacteria, unclogging pores, and maintaining the skin’s balance.
The result: clearer skin, fewer breakouts, and a more radiant complexion.
The frequency of using an exfoliant depends on the type of product. If you’re using an intense scrub, once a month is sufficient.
Detox clay masks, sheet masks, and other forms of masks offer an alternative way of applying ingredients.
You can think of them as a fun way to treat your skin with various ingredients.
While they are not necessary, using them once or twice a month can go a long way. You can select one based on your skin concerns or type (more on that later in the post).
The short answer is no.
Your skin has different needs during the day and night. For instance, your skin needs protection against heat, dirt, and pollution during the day.
While, at night, you need to pamper your skin after what it has been through during the day.
Here’s an example daily and nightly routine. Feel free to copy it and tweak it to suit your needs.
Step 1: Cleanse
Step 2: Exfoliate (once per month or so)
Step 3: Moisturize + Protect
Step 1: Cleanse
Step 2: Exfoliate (once per month or so)
Step 3: Hydrate + Moisturize
Now let’s understand how you can build your own skincare routine that perfectly suits your skin type.
Now that you know skincare routine best practices and some natural ingredients to look for, let’s talk about how to choose the right products.
Everything boils down to your skin type.
Some questions that can help you figure out your skin type include:
You might have dry skin if you answered yes to the first question. You may also experience itchiness, tightness, or creases on your skin.
If you answered yes to the second question, you may have oily skin. If you run your finger across your face at the end of a long day and see excess oils, you probably fall into this category.
Check out our comprehensive guide on how to form a natural skincare routine for oily skin.
Maintaining and healing black skin requires a much different approach to other skin types. Check out our post on how to form a natural skincare routine for black skin.
Combination skin is a mix of the above scenarios.
Now that you know your skin type and the steps of a skincare routine, it’s time to find products that fit your skin type.
Use this table to decide which products to look for as you build your routine:
Skin Type/Product | Dry | Oily | Combination |
Cleanser | Cleansers with added moisture. Examples include cleansers with ceramides, oils, and hyaluronic acid | Oil-free and non-comedogenic cleansers. Examples include gel and foam cleansers | Lightweight cleanser with hydrating properties |
Toner |
Toners with oils and hyaluronic acid | Toners with salicylic acid (a BHA), alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and witch hazel | Gentle, re-balancing toner with hydrating properties |
Exfoliator | Gentle products with AHAs or fruit enzymes | Products with BHAs and/or AHAs | Gentle product with a balance of AHAs and BHAs |
Moisturizer | Oil-based moisturizer | Oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer | A gel cream for daytime and oil-based formula for nighttime |
Protection | Mineral sunscreen formulation | Mineral sunscreen formulation | Mineral sunscreen formulation |
Natural skincare refers to products with ingredients primarily derived from the earth and sea.
Common examples of natural products include essential oils, plant powders, witch hazel, and natural butter.
While most natural products are preservative-free or have plant-based preservatives, some products involve the use of non-plant-based preservatives.
As the FDA doesn’t regulate the labels of skincare products, all brands may have a unique definition of natural products.
So, it is best to examine the product label before buying them.
All in all, natural skincare is rooted in clean products devoid of irritating or harsh products.
You’re probably reading this because you’re sick of all the junk in traditional skin care products.
These synthetic chemicals and artificial ingredients do more than just hurt your skin, but are also quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, which can lead to other health issues.
Here are some other reasons natural skincare has become more mainstream:
Once again, here are all the natural alternative ingredients to look for broken down by each step in your skincare routine:
Cleansers
Toners
Serum
Moisturizers
Sunscreen
If you want to follow a natural skincare routine but don’t know how to go about it, the safest bet is to choose brands that provide products with natural ingredients.
For instance, all Aleavia products are chemical-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients from the earth and sea.
You can easily use them without having to worry about any of the side effects associated with synthetic skincare products.
We hope this post has been helpful in getting you started with your own skincare routine!
]]>
The post is the definitive guide on how to restore your skin microbiome.
If you struggle with persistent skin conditions, irritation, or skin dryness, the issue may lie in your skin microbiome. But what exactly is it, and how do you restore your skin microbiome if it's out of balance?
In this post, you’ll learn:
Let’s dive in!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Disclaimer: The benefits of prebiotic skincare and Aleavia specifically have been positively vetted and approved by board-certified dermatologists and medical doctors. However, we always recommend consulting your primary care physician or board-certified dermatologist before making major health changes.
While the skin is the largest organ on the body, it’s also probably the most underrated.
Think of all the critical roles your skin plays in your health.
Your skin microbiome is full of “good” bacteria and fungi that play an essential role in keeping your skin healthy.
When the balance of these microbes is disturbed, it can cause various conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, or more serious skin conditions. To combat these problems, you need to understand and address what’s going on within your skin microbiome.
The skin microbiome is the collection of microrganisms - such as bacteria, fungi, and sometimes viruses - that live on your skin.
You've probably heard people talk about the gut microbiome, leaky gut issues, and how holistic healing begins with gut health.
What all of these terms point to is the health of the microbiome - the symbiotic community of bacteria in your gut that keep your digestion (and many other crucial bodily functions) running smoothly.
The same principle applies to the skin microbiome.
Think of your skin as a rainforest where the organisms survive in a mutually beneficial relationship.
It is important to note that the skin on different body parts is home to different microbiomes. For instance, the microbiome on the skin on your face is very different from the microbiome on the skin of your hands, armpits, back, feet, etc.
Bacteria has gotten a bad rap in medicine. Without good bacteria, our skin (and bodies as a whole) would be in bad shape.
The good bacteria help make your skin look fresh, plump, healthy, and bright. Apart from bacteria, your skin also hosts some fungi and viruses (yes, there are good viruses!) that team up with the bacteria and form barriers to protect your skin from other agents and pathogens.
Healing your skin from the inside out requires a deep understanding of the following:
When understanding your skin microbiome, your skin type (dry, oily, combination) and your skin's pH levels are two of the most important factors to study.
A healthy skin microbiome is important because it:
Let's explore each of these in a bit more detail.
Apart from preventing harmful pathogens from seeping in via the skin, your skin microbiome also helps control your skin immunity and support your skin barrier.
Interestingly, these microorganisms exist deep into the dermis and play a key role in communicating with our immune system.
A healthy skin microbiome is crucial for nutrient absorption, making your skin look fresh and bright.
For instance, the topical treatments you use for your skin will be absorbed by your skin only if your skin microbiome is potent and strong enough.
In addition to this, a healthy skin barrier helps keep the moisture in and hydrates the skin, which helps protect the body against infections, cleanses the body, and keeps diseases at bay.
Since the skin microbiome communicates directly with the immune system, it plays a significant role in helping heal wounds faster and brings down inflammation.
Just like a well-balanced gut microbiome can alleviate several health issues, so can a balanced skin microbiome.
In fact, medical professionals are only beginning to understand the incredible connection between gut health and skin health, called the "gut-skin axis."
More and more studies like this one are being conducted and published as we discover just how deep the relationship between gut and skin health goes.
The following habits and practices play an integral role in creating an imbalance in your skin microbiome and disturbing the pH levels on your skin:
An unhealthy and unbalanced skin microbiome can cause skin diseases like dermatitis, eczema, acne, rosacea, and psoriasis, among many others.
You can make simple changes in your life that can restore your skin microbiome and help make your skin clearer, brighter, firmer, and more supple. Some of these include:
The microbiome is closely tied to common skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and rosacea. Let's get into the specifics of how these are related.
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition wherein excess sebum secretion, closed comedones, and inflammation target healthy skin.
The condition develops primarily due to unregulated microbial activity on the skin, which is one of the results of an unhealthy skin microbiome.
Propionibacterium acnes is a part of the skin microbiome and contributes to healthy skin. It is caused by Propionibacterium acnes and Malassezia spp., which are found in sebaceous skin areas.
However, the bacterium produces propionic acid, which helps break down the fat released from the sebaceous glands. The free fatty acids then form closed comedones, which develop into acne.
Excess sebum production or unhealthy skin microbiome can cause Propionibacterium acnes to become pathogenic. A study has found that pathogenic bacteria can change the sebum composition, giving rise to acne.
Eczema is marked by dry, itchy, and scaly skin patches resulting from inflammation. Also known as atopic dermatitis, this is a condition where the skin loses moisture, becoming quickly dry and irritated.
There are several agents that irritate the skin microbiome, which causes eczema, including allergens, perfumes, chemicals, harsh soaps, infections, etc.
Studies have also found that patients with eczema lack diversity in their skin microbiome. The absence of necessary microorganisms on the skin can disturb the skin barrier, cause inflammation, and leak moisture.
The coronavirus pandemic in early 2020 heightened the world's sensitivity to maintaining "ultra-hygienic" conditions.
Since then, everyone around us has resorted to washing hands over a dozen times and frequently using sand sanitizer throughout the day.
Unfortunately, that's not ideal for the skin microbiome.
Most hand sanitizers use alcohol as their base, which destroys the balance between the organisms in your skin microbiome. In addition to this, the soaps generally available in the market are highly alkaline, with pH levels ranging to 10.
So, while washing hands frequently with soap might be necessary due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it disturbs the acidic pH of the skin, making it more prone to infection. It may also strip your skin of natural oils.
The lack of healthy bacteria on the skin to fight pathogens makes the body vulnerable to several contaminants that can cause inflammation and infections.
However, it must be noted that frequent washing and sanitizing does not strip the skin microbiome that resides deep into the skin's epidermis.
The skin microbiome, also known as the "skin flora," consists of good, skin-friendly bacteria. While there are thousands of such bacteria on different areas of the body, some include:
A healthy skin microbiome has a pH level of 5, which is slightly acidic to curb the growth of pathogens on the skin.
In case you don't remember from highschool chemistry, the term "pH" in pH level refers to the "potential of hydrogen" and is measured on a scale of 0 to 14.
Levels ranging from 0 to 6 are considered acidic, levels from 8 to 14 are considered fundamental, and a pH of 7 is considered neutral.
However, it is essential to remember that the skin's pH keeps on changing according to a person's:
Therefore, it is always recommended to use skincare products that are gentle and do not compromise the skin's average pH level.
If you're looking for all-natural, plant-based skincare products designed to heal the microbiome - well, that's kind of our bread n' butter.
Our body washes, lotions, and mists are all designed to help you heal your skin from the inside out - and it all starts with a healthy microbiome.
If you want to learn more about how prebiotic skincare can help you restore your skin microbiome, check out our post on the topic here.
If you're ready to explore our line of all-natural, plant-based skincare products, you can shop now.
]]>This post is the ultimate guide to all aspects of prebiotic skincare.
We’ll cover topics such as:
If you’re ready, let’s dive in!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Disclaimer: The benefits of prebiotic skincare and Aleavia specifically have been positively vetted and approved by board-certified dermatologists, microbiologists, and medical doctors. However, we always recommend consulting your primary care physician or board-certified dermatologist before making major health changes.
It’s no secret that the world is going organic. From allergen-free foods to grass-fed beef to cleaner energy. Health and skincare products are certainly not exempt from this trend.
Over the past five to ten years, the public has questioned mainline skincare products and the unpronounceable list of chemicals we apply to our largest organ.
Likewise, we’re beginning to see just how much the chemicals in our food and skincare products affect our day-to-day health and energy levels.
If you struggle with skin conditions that mainline products don’t seem to be alleviating, or you just want to overhaul the health of your skin altogether, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
Should you buy prebiotics? Probiotics? What about organic? What does that even mean?
Let’s start with some definitions.
Prebiotic skincare is a type of organic skincare that utilizes prebiotics to feed and nourish healthy bacteria on the surface of the skin. Prebiotics restore the skin microbiome, which can often help heal common skin conditions and revitalize the skin from the inside out.
Prebiotics are a source of food for the good bacteria in your skin (known as probiotics) which are responsible for maintaining the microbiome's health and vitality.
Prebiotics, when added to your skincare routine, restore or maintain the skin's strong barrier, which protects it from external invaders, maintains pH levels, and can even alleviate skin conditions.
At some point, you may have had a doctor tell you to “take your probiotics.” That’s good advice, but probiotics aren’t just for your gut.
See, everyone has a unique microbiome — a living “society” of healthy bacteria that resides both in your gut and on your skin.
Therefore, the same idea behind ingesting probiotic supplements to spur on healthy bacteria growth is the motivation for applying probiotics to the skin.
Prebiotics and probiotics team up in the fight for a strong and healthy skin. But they are not the same thing; let us examine each of their roles separately.
Hence the “pre” prefix, these plant fibers (which can be consumed orally or applied to the skin) are the catalyst for good bacteria growth, leading to a healthy and well-balanced microbiome on both the skin and in the gut.
Probiotics certainly have their place, but the superiority of prebiotics for skin and gut health lie in the fact that everyone’s microbiome is different.
This means the species of bacteria that your skin needs to thrive may be very different from the species my body needs.
If you were to stop at the local health store and peruse the probiotics section, you’d likely be overwhelmed at all the species of bacteria included in each supplement or skincare product.
Another way of thinking about probiotics is as a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
But how can you possibly know which supplement or product or bacterial species will yield the best result for your unique genetic makeup?
That’s where prebiotics come in. Prebiotics don’t dictate the exact species of bacteria that grow in your gut and on your skin, but simply create the most ideal conditions for these bacteria to grow and flourish.
Okay, so what? We’ve spent all this time talking about the difference between prebiotics and probiotics, but what does it mean for someone like you, who actually wants to have clear skin, more energy, and a chemical-free life?
Here are some of the specific benefits of incorporating prebiotics into your skincare routine.
Prebiotics facilitate a healthy balance of good bacteria in the skin's microbiome, thereby strengthening it. A strong microbiome acts as a shield against external influences such as harmful bacteria that can cause inflammation and breakouts.
Studies have shown us the ugly truth about how toxic chemicals in cosmetics affect our health. Instead of toxic chemicals, the ingredients in most prebiotic skin care products are entirely derived from plants.
Including prebiotics in your skincare routine can help with skin conditions that are otherwise difficult to treat. In fact, it was the sole motivation for our founder to start Aleavia. Whereas everything else had failed for years, prebiotics skincare cured her daughter's eczema in less than a month. Amazing, right?
And this isn’t just a one-off anecdote. The healing power of good bacteria is backed by research, including this paper published in 2018.
This report gathered decades worth of clinical studies on what happens when you introduce healthy bacteria into adults with acne.
The result was a tremendous decrease in visible lesions, with a recorded 80% of patients experiencing clear skin.
Across the board, almost miraculous levels of healing were reported in individuals with dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
Due to the fact that prebiotic products are plant-based and safe for children, the paper also reports several incidents of infant and child skin conditions improving as a result of healthy bacteria on the skin.
We’ve seen similar results with our customers, who’ve shared some truly incredible before and after photos of Aleavia products healing their persistent skin conditions.
An imbalanced microbiome leads to a variety of skin conditions due to "bad" bacteria in the microbiome “taking over.” Eczema, acne, rosacea, and other skin conditions are caused by a surplus of "bad" bacteria. Prebiotics help to restore this balance by feeding the “good” bacteria in the microbiome resulting in robust, healthy skin.
Hyaluronic acid, present in prebiotics, significantly decreases the depth of wrinkles and improves skin firmness and elasticity.
A prebiotic cleanser will stimulate the re-population of "good" bacteria in your skin's microbiome.
For example, all of our cleansers are engineered to do the following:
As you make prebiotics part of your consistent routine, you’ll start to see the effects of a restored skin microbiome — namely, smoother, more radiant skin and even relief from common skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea
There’s growing evidence that the health of your skin is highly dependent on the health of your gut. This direct connection of gut to skin is known as the gut-skin axis.
Here are some insights on gut and skin health:
This demonstrates why it's critical to maintain the health of your gut in relation to the health of your skin.
Eating prebiotics-rich foods such as onions, leeks, avocado and asparagus and probiotics-rich foods such as yogurt, kombucha and kefir stimulate the “good” bacteria that support the vitality of your skin and gut.
As I mentioned above, the skin, like the gut, has a microbiome. This microbiome is a thriving ecosystem of microorganisms that protect the skin and body against external invaders while maintaining a healthy equilibrium.
Problems with your skin arise when this equilibrium is disturbed and thrown off balance. It’s the job of pre and probiotics to ensure this doesn’t happen or correct it if it does.
Your skin contains trillions of strains of bacteria, viruses, fungi and microbes that collectively form the skin microbiome.
This ecosystem of microorganisms maintain harmony mainly due to their symbiotic relationship with the surrounding environment.
It's the disruption of this harmony of microorganisms on the skin that causes a variety of skin conditions. For example, one of the causes of acne is hair follicles becoming clogged by lipids and dead skin cells.
This happens when the microbiome is unbalanced with lipophilic bacteria.
Such skin conditions can be resolved by restoring the microbiome with the help of probiotic foods and prebiotics on the skin and in the gut.
Yes. Acne has many causes (such as hormones, stress, and excess oil on the skin), but a major one is an imbalance in the skin microbiome, as we saw in the previous section.
Prebiotics act as food for the "good" bacteria in the skin, assisting in their repopulation and thus restoring microbiome balance and curing or significantly reducing acne.
It’s crucial to be aware of the ingredients in your prebiotic skincare and their functions. For best results, use 100% organic skincare with ingredients such as:
Acadian sea kelp is teeming with vital antioxidants that protect the skin from UV light, free debris, pollution and other toxic environmental substances.
It’s also loaded with fatty-acids that not only permeate your skin with moisture but also retain the moisture through continued use, making your skin smooth as silk.
Sea salt is chock full of minerals that are beneficial to the body and skin. It’s popular in skin care products due to its detoxifying, hydrating and exfoliating properties which unclog your pores and allow your skin to breathe.
Aloe vera has benefited man for ages! It’s known to have over 200 biological compounds that range from sugars, enzymes, vitamins to amino acids and salicylic acids. These compounds offer a plethora of benefits such as moisturizing, hydrating and soothing the skin making it radiant regardless of age.
Because coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, it’s ideal for irritated and grazed skin. It also increases the skin's collagen production due to the presence of lauric acid that helps the skin maintain elasticity and firmness (which helps with anti-aging).
Plant glycerin is vegan friendly, acts as a moisturizer, prevents infections and accelerates wound healing.
The goal is to find products that contain a balance of prebiotic, exfoliating, detoxifying and moisturizing properties in their ingredients. This provides your skin with the holistic care it needs to be healthy and robust.
Now that you understand what makes a good prebiotic skin care product, let’s look at some brands you can start using right away.
At Aleavia, we have a range of prebiotic-infused, all-natural skincare products, including body washes, lotions, and mists.
All our organic skincare formulations nourish your skin at the cellular level, infusing your microbiome with prebiotics and helping you realize all the benefits we’ve mentioned above.
It also helps with:
All these result in healthy, vibrant skin and a balanced microbiome — without chemicals or toxins.
The Prebiotic Emulsion is a (pretty pricey) new product from the luxury brand Orveda that comes with a reusable silicone mask.
The three-in-one product can be used as a moisturizer, a hydrating serum or as a facial treatment mask used once-a-week. It claims to moisturize the skin by restoring lipids and hydration.
This antioxidant-rich and prebiotic-loaded moisturizer restores and strengthens the microbiome. It’s packed with viola flower, chia and coconut which form a protective layer on the skin and lock in moisture keeping it hydrated and radiant. It also contains fermented kumaru which absorbs UV light and reflects back visible light.
Prebiotics have no known side effects because they’re made up of ingredients naturally found on the earth and in the sea.
Probiotics, although uncommon, are reported to cause some side effects. The fact is we’re all different, with unique overall health, skin and gut microbiomes.
Due to these differences we may have different reactions to probiotics introduced to our system. The good news is the symptoms are usually mild and subside with continued use.
Common side effects people experience from probiotics are:
The introduction of new probiotic bacteria into your body may cause a variation in gas production due to an increase in bacterial fermentation, which may result in bloating, gas, constipation, or general stomach discomfort.
It’s rare for one to experience this due to probiotics. In the case it happens, you can start with a low dose and gradually increase to the recommended dose.
At times the discomforts could be due to other factors e.g. medications and new foods. If the discomfort persists, it's best to see a doctor to figure out what's causing it.
Probiotics, as previously stated, are safe for the vast majority of people. However, in a few cases, the yeast can enter the bloodstream and cause infections.
For example, it is estimated that only about one in one million people who take probiotics containing Lactobacilli bacteria will develop an infection. As you can see, the numbers are extremely low and if the infections do occur they are usually treatable with antibiotics and antifungals.
That’s why it’s critical to check the ingredients of any prebiotic product before using it. Check that the ingredients are organic, safe, and that you are not allergic to any of them.
We’ve cited plenty of science that all claims the same thing: A healthy, clear skin is maintained by a balanced microbiome.
Prebiotics can help alleviate or significantly reduce various skin conditions such as:
All by restoring balance to the skin's microbiome.
Most skin care products that we are accustomed to are designed to treat specific conditions.
They are effective because they are designed to cure a specific condition, and all of the ingredients in the product are geared toward that specific purpose. For example, dry skin, acne, or inflammation.
On the other hand, prebiotics skincare products take a holistic care approach. By stimulating a balanced, stable, and healthy microbiome.
Prebiotics skincare products effectively target and treat skin conditions holistically.
This is why probiotic and prebiotic skincare products are rapidly growing in popularity. They have the potential to benefit anyone and everyone.
They can treat or significantly reduce common skin conditions, but that's not all.
Prebiotics give the skin a fighting chance against daily stressors like pollution, sunlight, harsh weather, and poor diet by strengthening the skin's barrier, resulting in radiant, clear, and smooth skin.
Prebiotics are effective on their own, but combining them with probiotics in your skincare routine yields far superior results.
This is why a prebiotic skincare cleanser such as Aleavia Enzymatic Body Cleanse is a must have.
For example, by using it in the morning and at night, it begins to clear away buildup from external stressors such as pollution, opening up your pores and allowing your skin to breathe.
Then it moisturizes your skin, leaving it soft and supple. The cleanser then nourishes the microbiota in your skin, making it balanced, strong, and healthy, thanks to the nutritious prebiotics in it.
Your face is the most delicate since it’s always exposed to external aggravation. Implementing a pre and probiotic face mask can work wonders in strengthening the skin’s barrier so it’s able to handle these stressors. Use the face mask after cleansing but before applying any serums or creams.
After applying the cleanser and gently patting your skin with a towel, it's time to apply a prebiotic mist. They are known to relieve rashes, redness, and irritation.
To avoid allergic reactions, always use fragrance-free, non-comedogenic pre and probiotic skincare products. When purchasing probiotic products, make sure the packaging is opaque to keep light out.
Prebiotics and probiotics should be avoided if you have recently had surgery, have a compromised immune system, have acute pancreatitis, or have been hospitalized for an extended period of time.
A good rule of thumb is to always consult with your doctor before making any drastic decisions.
The world is finally waking up to the truth that we’ve been preaching for years now: most skincare conditions must be treated from the inside out.
The acne, rosacea, or dryness that’s been plaguing your skin could very well be the result of a much deeper issue — an unbalanced microbiome, either in the skin or gut.
This imbalance indicates that the "bad" bacteria in the microbiome have outweighed the "good.”
A variety of factors may contribute to this, including daily intensive hygiene, which scrapes off the "good" bacteria in your skin, a poor diet, and certain medications and cosmetics.
Implementing prebiotics skincare into your daily routine stimulates the repopulation of "good" bacteria in your skin’s microbiome resulting in a healthy, strong, soft and supple skin.
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Is lavender safe for dogs? The short answer is "yes," but it's a bit more complicated than that.
Lavender is a beautiful, aromatic plant prized for its ability to calm the body and mind. You can find lavender in many products, including soaps, shampoos, candles, lotions, and more.
But did you know that lavender can also improve your dog's quality of life?
Used responsibly, it can help dogs relax, reduce pain, calm thunderstorm phobias, and more.
In this article, you'll learn about lavender for dogs: what it is, how to use it, and the best ways to give this safe, gentle herb to your pup.
Lavender essential oil comes from lavender flowers. To make the oil, the tiny purple blossoms are distilled, producing the fragrant liquid that has a floral aroma with woodsy, herbaceous undertones.
As long as it's used responsibly, lavender essential oil is an animal-friendly herb.
Only use pure, therapeutic-lavender oil. Avoid lavender products mixed with paraben, dyes, and other ingredients that can be harmful to dogs.
The lavender plant contains a compound called linalool, which can be toxic to animals like dogs and cats. However, the plant has such small concentrations of linalool that toxicity is not a common issue.
The problem happens when dogs ingest an enormous amount of lavender. Large quantities of linalool in a dog's system can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, sedation, seizures, and more serious conditions.
That's why you have to be extra careful when using lavender oil for dogs.
It's highly concentrated, which means it contains a high level of linalool. Ingesting even a small amount can make your dog sick.
Always observe safety precautions when using lavender oil on your dog. This includes diluting it thoroughly before use and only using the smallest amount necessary for treatment.
Used safely, lavender essential oil is beneficial to dogs in similar ways to humans.
For example, it has a calming effect, so it can help dogs relax. It also helps relieve pain and anxiety. Dogs who are anxious or in a lot of pain are often less likely to sleep or eat, which can cause even more problems.
Lavender oil also has mild antibiotic properties, along with antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and other healthful properties.
Let's dive deeper into the many benefits of lavender essential oil for dogs.
Lavender oil is an effective natural flea repellent if it's diluted with water and sprayed onto your dog's coat before they head outdoors. It smells great, so your dog will love getting a spritz of lavender mist as they walk through the door.
Lavender is a great insect repellent for dogs because it works quickly and keeps bugs at bay for several hours.
Make your own "doggie cologne" to keep fleas away with lavender oil, carrier oils, and other natural ingredients.
Lavender oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It can relieve itchy, irritated skin caused by dryness or allergies.
When a dog has joint pain, it's harder for them to move around. They can become lethargic and have trouble getting comfortable enough to sleep or relax.
Lavender oil can help improve blood flow, relieves pain, and reduce inflammation, which can help your dog move and play more easily.
If your dog ever gets burned or scalded, you can use diluted lavender oil to treat the pain. It has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe the skin and prevent infection.
When a dog is anxious, they often bark, whine, pace around, or engage in other destructive behaviors. These are signs of distress that can be hard to handle for both you and your pet.
Believe it or not, anxiety can actually lead to a skin condition called lick granuloma. This skin condition causes your dog to self-mutilate by licking his skin to the point of irritation and hair loss.
Lavender can help reduce a dog's stress, calm them down, and improve their mood. It's especially helpful for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety or get triggered by certain stimuli, such as thunder.
Dogs get carsick, sea sick, and airsick too. Lavender can help calm your dog's nerves while they travel to prevent vomiting or nausea.
Does your dog have trouble sleeping at night? Lavender can help. Its soothing, calming scent is perfect for creating a relaxing environment that encourages restful sleep.
Lavender oil has antimicrobial properties that fight off harmful bacteria in the body without affecting beneficial flora. It boosts the immune system and helps support overall health and wellness.
You don't have to mask bad smells with other odors when you can use lavender oil. It's natural and has a fresh, clean smell instead of an artificial perfume fragrance.
Its antiseptic properties can also help reduce the formation of harmful bacteria in your dog's coat or on their skin.
The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of lavender oil help reduce itchy, inflamed skin that's caused by allergies.
While lavender oil has many benefits for dogs, it can be dangerous if not used properly.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Always dilute lavender oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil before using it on your dog. The safe dilution ratio is typically 2-5%.
These parts are sensitive to essential oils, so if lavender oil ends up in them, it could lead to irritation or discomfort.
As any pet owner knows, dogs will try to eat anything and everything. Always remember to keep your essential oils out of your dog's reach.
If you plan to use lavender oil for the first time, start by using it in small amounts and observe how your dog reacts.
Watch out for these warning signs:
If you see any of these signs, stop using lavender oil immediately and call your vet.
A dog's sense of smell is much stronger than ours. What smells nice to humans can be overpowering to dogs.
Before you start using lavender oil on your pet, make sure he has an escape route so he can leave if he feels uncomfortable. Leave the door open or do it within sight of his crate.
During the first time you introduce lavender oil to your dog, offer him treats so he associates the smell with something pleasurable.
Let him smell it first, then watch his reaction.
Does he start panting, rubbing his face on the carpet, whining, or turning his face away from you?
Stop immediately and pick another time and place to try again.
As mentioned above, the ideal dilution percentage for dogs is 2%-5%. A good rule of thumb is to add 3-6 drops of lavender oil to 1 fluid ounce of water.
Lavender can help dogs sleep faster and better. The natural calming properties of lavender oil encourage relaxation and help ease your dog's stress, which makes it easier to fall asleep.
Now that you know how beneficial lavender oil is for dogs, here are different ways you can try to safely give it to them:
Diffusing lavender oil for dogs is a safe way to help calm them down before you leave the house, or when your pet needs some extra TLC at home. It's also a wonderful way to fill your home with its soothing scent.
If you have a diffuser, add a few drops of lavender essential oil into the water.
Don't have one? Boil a pot of water instead, add a few drops of lavender oil, and place in a closed room for DIY aromatherapy.
"Topical" means applied to the skin. Lavender oil can help reduce inflammation and itching when you apply it directly to your dog's affected areas like cuts, scrapes, or burns.
It can also be used as a soothing after-bath application for dogs with itchy or sensitive skin conditions.
Always dilute lavender oil first before topical application. Use 2-5% dilutions or roughly 1 drop of essential oil for every teaspoon of carrier oil.
If you use lavender on your dog's skin, start by testing a small area first. If there are no signs of irritation after 24 hours, go ahead and apply it to the rest of his body.
You can also add lavender oil to your dog's shampoo for a more relaxing bath.
For a complete guide on how to safely and naturally treat your dogs’ skin conditions, check out our post on the topic here.
You can give your dog lavender through its nose by diffusing or adding a few drops of lavender oil to his collar or bedding.
Inhaling the scent of essential oils is another way dogs enjoy the benefits of lavender, and it's a great way to make sure he doesn't develop an aversion to the smell.
Mist your dog's bedding and other areas he frequently hangs out for a fresh lavender scent. Again, make sure to dilute the oil first and test a small amount on the carpet, bedding, or furniture to be sure it doesn't stain.
You can also spray a very thin layer of diluted lavender oil on his coat to help calm him down.
Dogs can't lick their ears, so it's a great spot to apply a few drops of diluted lavender oil for fast and effective relief.
Be sure the area is clean before applying, and test it first on a small patch just in case your dog has an adverse reaction.
Does your dog have a favorite cuddle buddy? Add a tiny drop of lavender oil to the toy for an extra calming effect.
Apply a little lavender oil on the ceiling of his crate to help him relax and sleep better.
Remember, always dilute lavender oil before using it on your pet. Never apply undiluted oils to your dog's skin or around his eyes, ears, nose, mouth, rectum/genital areas, or other sensitive spots.
When in doubt about how much to use or how often you can apply lavender oil to your dog, always err on the side of caution.
Yes, but it depends on the ingredients in the shampoo. Some pet shampoos have harsh chemicals like sulfates.
Keep these in mind:
parabens, and made of all-natural ingredients that are proven safe for pets.
It should also be tearless, safe to swallow in small amounts, pH balanced, hypoallergenic, and free from synthetic fragrances and colors.
The PetBiotics Prebiotic Lavender Dog Shampoo is all of that and more.
In tandem with lavender oil, the PetBiotics dog shampoo stimulates the production of healthy bacteria in your dog's skin:
The result is soft, shiny fur and hydrated skin for your dog - which also smells incredible thanks to the natural lavender essential oil.
People who use this shampoo on their pets have seen a reduction in dander, flakiness, dryness, and other hair issues.
These two work in tandem to moisturize your dog's skin from within, reduce itching and dryness, and promote healthy hair growth.
Lavender oil can be a fantastic addition to your dog's routine. As long as you observe safety precautions, it's a great way to improve his mental and emotional wellness, improve his general health, and make him a calmer and happier pup.
Lavender is safe for topical use on dogs, but it's always a good idea to test a small amount on the carpet, bedding, or furniture to be sure it doesn't stain.
You can also spray a very thin layer of diluted lavender oil on his coat to help calm him down. Use caution when applying - remember that dogs have a much more sensitive sense of smell than we do!
No, never feed your dog lavender buds or essential oil. They both contain linalool, a compound that is toxic to dogs in large amounts.
Carrier oils are a great way to dilute lavender essential oil before you apply it topically or diffuse it. Use pet-safe and skin-healthy oils like coconut oil.
You can use a diffuser, spray, and/or apply it topically, or use a lavender shampoo. Always test a small amount first to see if your dog has any reaction before you apply lavender oil in larger quantities.
Be sure not to get any in his eyes, ears, nose, mouth, rectum/genital areas, or other sensitive areas.
Use a diffuser and direct the mist away from your dog's face so he doesn't inhale too much of the oil. Y
ou can also create a DIY diffuser by filling a dish or bowl with water and adding a few drops of lavender oil to it, then placing it on a table next to your dog.
Never feed your dog any amount of lavender oil, whether it's the essential oil, buds, or flowers. These pure forms of lavender can be dangerous to dogs.
Yes! Lavender can be a great way to calm down your dog, whether you use it topically, diffuse it in his environment, or apply it directly to his paws.
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The most common skin condition on dogs is an allergic skin disease, otherwise known as allergic dermatitis.
Allergic dermatitis is a genetically inherited predisposition to adverse effects upon exposure to an allergen. In other words, dogs are just as prone to allergic reactions as humans.
And just like humans, there's a wide range of skin conditions that can affect your dog beyond allergic dermatitis.
The more you know about these skin conditions, the better you'll be able to recognize signs and symptoms in order to catch a problem early.
In this post, we’ll get into:
Let’s dive in!
Is your dog pawing, scratching, or licking at their skin more than normal? Do you notice any redness, hair loss, or rashes?
Those are some of the earliest warning signs that a skin issue is brewing, but there are other red flags you should watch for.
If you notice any of these on your dog, they’re likely suffering an adverse skin condition:
Note that skin diseases often share symptoms. To get a definite diagnosis, you’ll need to consult your veterinarian. That said, let's look at some of the most common skin conditions on dogs.
Under your dog's fur coat is a layer of skin that's just as susceptible to conditions as the skin on your own body.
Here are some of the most common skin conditions that can affect your furry friend, plus an in-depth look at causes, types, and more.
Also known as Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy), it's an allergic reaction to external allergens (like environmental, food, and contact allergies).
These allergens can include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, animal dander (dead skin), and grass.
The only thing dogs love more than humans is eating. Sadly, they can be allergic to many types of food, including proteins (chicken, fish, etc.), eggs, grains, fats, and even byproducts.
When your dog's body incorrectly identifies a certain ingredient as harmful, the result is an allergic reaction. Note that food allergies differ from food intolerance.
Food intolerance is a digestive issue, while a food allergy is an immune system issue. Both are treatable, but food intolerances are much less serious than allergies because there's no risk for anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction that attacks the airways).
Dogs can be allergic to substances they come into direct contact with, like certain cleaning substances or bedding/blanket materials. No matter the cause, allergic dermatitis can turn any carefree dog into a ball of fur.
Symptoms of atopy can include:
In some cases, the itching can get so intense that it leads to self-mutilation, a disorder more commonly known as "lick granuloma."
Fungal infections are caused by an overgrowth of fungus on or under your dog's skin. Ringworm and yeast infections are two of the most common types.
Ringworm is caused by a mold-like parasitic fungus that's highly contagious (easily spread) to both animals and humans.
Usually, it starts as a red, ring-shaped patch of skin that's dry and scaly. If left untreated, the ringworm fungus can spread to your dog's claws and nails, causing thickening or brittleness of the nails.
Over time, it can also cause patches of hair loss and crusty lesions.
Important: Ringworm is HIGHLY contagious.
You can get ringworm from your pet, and your pet can get it from you.
Not only can it spread to other pets and humans, but if your dog's infected with ringworm fungus, your home is likely contaminated too.
If you suspect your pup might have ringworm, be sure to take immediate action. It's best to quarantine them from other pets and wash all bedding, grooming tools, collars, leashes, bedding materials (blankets, pillows), and toys.
Finally, observe your skin and your family as well. By the time you spot ringworm, you could have been infected for a few weeks.
Yeast infections are a type of fungal infection caused by a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia pachydermatis.
This may be surprising, but yeast naturally occurs on the skin of dogs. It's usually kept in check by other organisms (like good bacteria) and their immune system, your dog's primary defense against bad organisms.
However, if your dog's immune system is compromised (for example, by an immune deficiency, allergy flareup, or immunosuppressive drugs), yeast can overproduce, leading to a yeast infection.
This is especially true if your dog is outside often (e.g, a working dog) or has a damp environment (like folds in its skin) that encourages yeast growth.
A yeast infection has symptoms like other types of fungal infections: hair loss, redness, inflammation, and a musty odor. Your dog may also start developing crusty, thickened, scaly, or flaky skin. Chronic ear infections are another classic sign.
Unlike ringworm, a yeast infection is not contagious.
Tiny mites are the culprits behind this extremely common skin condition in dogs. These mites will burrow into your dog's skin, eat sebum and dead skin cells, and reproduce.
The two common types of mange are sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange.
Sarcoptic mange (aka canine scabies) is caused by a mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. It's highly contagious between dogs. Your pet can get it from direct contact with another infected dog. These mites can also survive for several days on inanimate objects like dog toys, beddings, and bowls, so disinfect these items if your dog is infected and has been in contact with them.
Sarcoptic mange is very itchy and can cause scabs, sores, inflammation, and bald patches. It's most evident in a dog's ears, face, and legs, but it can also spread on the rest of its body.
If your dog has a sudden onset of intense, unexplained itching, they may have sarcoptic mange.
This condition is caused by another type of mite, called Demodex Canis. While dogs can infect another one with these mites, a healthy pup's immune system usually keeps the number of mites to a minimum.
When demodectic mange occurs, it's because a dog may have an immune deficiency — because of genetic predisposition, an environmental factor (like malnutrition), or drugs like steroids. As a result, their skin cannot fight off the mites' growth or keep them under control.
Demodectic mange can cause patchy, red skin with hair loss and crusty lesions.
Has your dog started losing a significant amount of hair without an obvious cause? Is he going bald in one particular area, like over his back or flanks?
Your dog may be suffering from alopecia. Alopecia is hair loss (balding) that can result from nutrient deficiencies, metabolic diseases, genetic diseases, and a range of infectious diseases.
Alopecia is often called "diffuse." This means that your dog's hair loss is all over his body, and he appears to be going bald. It can also be called "focal," if only one area of your dog's body (like his back) is affected.
Finally, dogs may also have self-inflicted alopecia. This can happen due to too much scratching, self-mutilation because of anxiety or traumatic events, allergies, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other similar causes.
Yes, dogs can get dandruff, too.
Just like in humans, dandruff is often caused by dry skin. This can be due to the natural lack of oil in dogs' skin (like on their paws), which results from aging, environmental factors (like cold winters), and diet.
Dandruff can also be caused by seborrhea, a condition that results from the overproduction of sebum by your dog's oil glands.
This can be due to hormonal imbalances caused by a host of factors, including Cushing's disease, a lack of enzymes in your dog's liver or kidneys that would normally process sebum, and the use of certain drugs like glucocorticoids.
There's a wide range of reasons your dog may have dry and flaky skin.
Aside from the skin conditions above, it can be a direct effect of cold weather or low humidity inside your home.
The products you use on your dog (like shampoo) can also dry out his skin.
Finally, some dogs' skin loses moisture when they eat an extremely high-protein or high-calorie diet (which is sometimes done to fight kidney disease).
Your dog's skin is not a sterile environment, and it shouldn't be. The skin of a healthy dog is home to natural organisms like good yeast, bacteria, and fungi.
That healthy flora relies heavily on balanced pH levels, which refers to the amount of acid and alkaline in your pup's skin.
One way to understand the importance of having a balanced pH is by thinking about your dog's skin as a fortress under siege: the enzymes in the healthy bacteria are like archers on the wall, defending against invaders.
If that pH level gets out of whack, the good bacteria lose and your dog becomes vulnerable to many skin issues.
Rebalancing those pH levels restores the peace in your dog's skin microbiome. This shows itself through improved coat condition, better skin, and faster healing.
Some canine skin conditions can make your dog smell bad.
For instance, a dog with a yeast infection usually smells of musty mold or, interestingly, like corn chips. The smell is strongest in their ears, paw pads, and folds around their body.
Mange in dogs often has a similar smell. Not because of the mites, but because of the bad bacteria and yeast overgrowth that invades your dog's skin and fur. The foul odor is particularly concentrated in their ears.
Aside from yeast infection and mange, your dog may also stink because of dandruff, infected wounds caused by scratching and chewing on their skin, and infections caused by harmful bacteria.
Crusty spots are a common symptom of many skin conditions in dogs. Crusty skin starts off as small patches that are dry, scaly, and flaky.
As it progresses, crusty skin becomes thickened because of the debris or infection that the scales have trapped under them. If your dog picks at the crust and it breaks, it can create open wounds and get infected.
Some skin issues that can lead to crusty spots are ringworm, demodectic mange, and yeast infections.
Does your dog exhibit any of the symptoms above?
First, don't panic.
Most skin conditions are treatable and can provide immediate relief if you get your dog the help they need.
Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, as well as take a medical and dietary history to figure out what's going on. You'll need to show them all the symptoms you've noticed and answer some questions about your dog's lifestyle.
Vets can also conduct the following tests:
This laboratory test detects the presence of IgE antibodies in your dog's blood. These antibodies are a defense response to allergens.
This test checks for mites or fungus on your dog's skin. The sample is examined under a microscope to see if they contain mange mites or fungus.
To perform this test, the vet takes a very small sample of skin tissue that is then sent to a lab. The lab results help the vet determine what type of infection or condition your dog has so they can design a treatment plan.
This test examines hair follicles. It can help diagnose skin conditions that result in hair loss, like mange or seborrheic dermatitis. It can also yield useful information like genetic coat issues your dog may have.
The vet may take a swab of your dog's skin lesions to determine what type of bacteria are causing the infection.
This test works similarly to the bacterial culture by swabbing a skin lesion. The lab results help your veterinarian identify the type of fungus infecting your dog's skin.
As part of the diagnostic process, most vets will order routine tests like CBC, urinalysis, and serum chemistry panels to determine if the skin condition is related to some other medical issue.
Finally, your vet will take the results of the tests and correlate them with information from your dog's physical exam. This will help them determine what type of condition is causing the skin issue, and how to treat your dog.
Whether it's caused by allergies, bacteria, or fungus, the treatment protocols for dog skin conditions are similar:
Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may prescribe antibiotics, antifungal agents, or both. They'll also probably give you some medicated shampoo to use on your dog.
For more severe cases, your vet may recommend a medicated bath. These baths kill bacteria and fungus by delivering a high concentration of medication to your dog's skin.
Your vet may also recommend changes to your dog's food, environment, and activities. For example, they may prescribe hypoallergenic food for dogs with food allergies. You may also be given a list of foods to avoid feeding your dog.
Is your dog allergic to pollen? You may have to find another way for your dog to exercise because they should avoid activities where they'll be exposed to grass and trees.
If your dog's condition is related to allergies, your vet may prescribe antihistamines or allergy serum injections to help reduce or eliminate the inflammation.
If your dog's condition is caused by fleas, mites, or ticks, you'll need to treat the parasites causing the problem. Your vet can recommend the most effective method for extermination.
As part of the treatment plan, your vet might also recommend supplements and therapeutic treats to help improve your dog's coat health.
These can contain omega fatty acids, essential minerals, or other ingredients that help soothe itchy or irritated skin.
While medications do their job inside your dog's body, you also need to support that healing process on the outside.
Topical therapy for dogs includes shampoos, conditioners, and rinses you can use to restore your dog's skin to its natural healthy state.
Additionally, specially-formulated topical treatments like Petbiotics can speed up healing, relieve symptoms, and rejuvenate your dog's skin and coat.
Our Lavender Prebiotic Dog Shampoo works by boosting your dog's healthy skin flora to produce a natural alkaline enzyme. This enzyme is gently absorbed beneath your pet's dermal layers and immediately works to start rebalancing pH.
This safe and all-natural process helps your dog heal faster and get back his shiny, soft, and lustrous coat. It also works for dogs with normal skin!
A healthy dog is a happy dog, and part of that is the correct diet, a protective environment, and maintaining their skin microbiome and pH balance.
Combined with a vet-designed treatment and wellness plan, the steps you take today can improve your dog's health and help them live a long and happy life.
Depending on the symptoms your dog is exhibiting, their breed, and where you live, your vet might perform a skin scraping or biopsy to determine what kind of condition they're dealing with.
They'll also need some blood work done to help identify any secondary medical conditions that may be causing your dog's skin issues.
The most common skin conditions in dogs are allergic dermatitis, mange, ringworm, dandruff, and yeast infections.
Many canine skin conditions don't go away on their own. Often, they get progressively worse, especially if your dog's immune system is compromised.
This can lead to secondary infections that are much harder to treat. In severe cases, it can interfere with your dog's sleep and daily routine, leading to anxiety, other behavioral changes, and can even be fatal.
They can also contaminate other pets and possibly even humans in the home.
The best way to prevent skin problems is to take your pet in for regular checkups and make sure they're up-to-date on their vaccinations.
In addition, there are ways to reduce your dog's exposure to outdoor allergens by keeping them indoors or minimizing their contact with areas where there are a lot of weeds, grasses, or flowers.
Finally, giving your dog a high-quality diet and using nutritional supplements can help improve their skin and coat health.
Don't forget to supplement their skin care with the right shampoo, prebiotic sprays, and treats packed with skin-healing nutrients like omega-3.
Everyone's allergic to something, and your dog is no different! They may be allergic to common things like fleas, pollen, or grasses, but also feathers, mold, dust, and even certain foods.
Which things trigger your dog's allergies will depend on their breed and age, as well as their particular body chemistry.
The most effective way to identify your dog's allergies is to talk to your vet about the symptoms you're seeing, their breed and age, and lifestyle. Using a combination of tests to determine your dog's symptoms, your vet can help you develop an elimination diet, treat them for any secondary infections or conditions, and prescribe medications to help your dog feel better.
Definitely. In particular, anxiety and stress can cause alopecia or hair loss/balding. Emotional and psychological distress also weakens your dog's immune system, making them more vulnerable to developing skin conditions.
If your dog is suffering from anxiety or stress, consider using calming treats and supplements that help promote emotional wellness.
For example, lavender is a very effective treatment for anxiety and calming. Its scent is an excellent mood regulator, associated with feelings of relaxation and ease.
Regularly bathing your dog with a lavender-scented shampoo can help improve their overall condition and help soothe nervous behaviors.
Mites are microscopic parasites that are very difficult to see with the naked eye. If your dog has mites, you may notice them scratching, licking, biting, and chewing excessively.
If you're worried that your dog has mites, give your vet a call to set up an appointment. They will conduct tests like skin scraping or parasitic cultures to determine if your dog has mites and order the appropriate treatment.
Yes, but you need to be careful when selecting the right products to use on your dog.
Remember that their skin is sensitive, especially to certain chemicals and potent scents.
Look for all-natural, organic products that don't contain GMOs, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
]]>It’s no secret that the world is going organic. From allergen-free foods to grass-fed beef to cleaner energy. Health and skincare products are certainly not exempt from this trend.
Over the past five to ten years, the public has questioned mainline skincare products and the unpronounceable list of chemicals we apply to our largest organ every day.
Likewise, we’re beginning to see just how much the chemicals in our food and skincare products affect our day-to-day health and energy levels.
If you struggle with skin conditions that mainline products don’t seem to be alleviating, or you just want to overhaul the health of your skin altogether, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
Should you buy prebiotics? Probiotics? What about organic? What does that even mean?
In this post, you’ll learn the difference between prebiotics and probiotics, and why we believe prebiotic skincare is one of the best ways to not only kick pesky skin conditions but introduce clean, plant-based substances to your skin that your body loves.
Let’s dive in!
Firstly, let’s address the crucial distinction between prebiotics and probiotics. At some point, you may have had a doctor tell you to “take your probiotics.” That’s good advice, but probiotics aren’t just for your gut.
In a previous blog post, we explained the complexity of your body’s microbiome - the living “society” of healthy bacteria - that resides both in your gut and on your skin. Therefore, the same idea behind ingesting probiotic supplements to spur on healthy bacteria growth lies behind applying probiotics to the skin.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, we still need to talk about the differences between prebiotics and probiotics.
Probiotics are substances or foods that actually contain living bacteria. Some examples include yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha, and kimchi. Generally, if it’s fermented, there’s a high chance it contains healthy bacteria.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are specialized plant fibers that stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the body.
Hence the “pre” prefix, these plant fibers (which can be consumed orally or applied to the skin) are the catalyst for good bacteria growth, leading to a healthy and well-balanced microbiome on both the skin and in the gut.
Probiotics certainly have their place, but the superiority of prebiotics for skin and gut health lie in the fact that everyone’s microbiome is different.
This means the species of bacteria that your skin needs to thrive may be very different than the species my body needs. If you were to stop at the local health store and peruse the probiotics section, you’d likely be overwhelmed at all the species of bacteria included in each supplement or skincare product.
Another way of thinking about probiotics is as a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
But how can you possibly know which supplement or product or bacterial species will yield the best result for your unique genetic makeup?
That’s where prebiotics come in. Prebiotics don’t dictate the exact species of bacteria that grow in your gut and on your skin, but simply create the most ideal conditions for these bacteria to grow and flourish.
Okay, so what? We’ve spent all this time talking about the difference between prebiotics and probiotics, but what does it mean for someone like you, who actually wants to have clear skin, more energy, and a chemical-free life?
This research paper, published in 2018, collected multiple clinical studies dating all the way from 1961 to 2016 that introduced healthy bacteria into adults with acne. The result was a tremendous decrease in visible lesions, with a recorded 80% of patients experiencing clear skin.
Across the board, almost miraculous levels of healing were reported in individuals with dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
Due to the fact that prebiotic products are plant-based and safe for children, the paper also reports several incidents of infant and child skin conditions improving as a result of healthy bacteria on the skin.
This is why we’re so passionate about healing the whole person at Aleavia. Removing the visible effects of skin conditions is a great place to start, but ditching the chemicals and renewing the body’s natural chemistry from the inside out can provide life-changing results in all areas.
]]>We are excited to be able to showcase a recent appearance our CEO, Kelly Graham, made on The Dr. Jason Show, MEDS. Dr. Littleton, known by many as America’s Energy Doctor, invited Kelly to talk about how she as a high-functioning CEO exercises, eats, drinks, and sleeps with such a busy schedule! Below you will find the meat and potatoes of the MEDS episode.
Kelly Graham: “My journey to health and wellness started about eleven years ago. After my youngest daughter was born, I had a lot of health issues that doctors really couldn’t figure out what was wrong. And it ended up being a huge hormonal imbalance, which can happen. It can cause anxiety, depression, and headaches. And for me, it started a really hard road with migraine headaches. So I went to doctor after doctor, and neurologists, and tried lots of different medications...and a lot of brain medications that really dope you out, making you not want to get out of bed. And running a company, having two kids, I just couldn’t do it.”
Dr. Littleton: “You wanted a natural solution. You have a busy life. One of the things I always talk about to my patients, clients, and social media family is that if you have a busy life, you have to connect your health goals to your overall goals, to your career goals — to the goals that you have so that you stay motivated as far as your healthy living routines. And how has your career and your business made you want to be more healthy?”
Kelly: “Well, first of all, the business that I’m in, and being in organic skin care, you are around people who are really into health and wellness. And a lot of the people that I’ve really connected with really have a cool story. A lot of the people that have chosen this lifestyle have either had Hashimoto’s (disease), they’ve had major skin problems, gut problems — and they’ve all had a story where they’ve all had to go this route in order to change their lives and make a difference. And so it’s been motivating to me to be around these type of people; you learn things, you learn things you can take home that you can cook for your family or just add to your routine. That’s been a really fun part of having this company is that I travel around and meet amazing people that have great stories that through your MEDS prescription — through moving through eating through diet through sleep, that they’ve changed the way they feel.”
Dr. Littleton: “Wow. So let’s just start out with how you move. How do you exercise?”
Kelly: “Luckily for me, moving for me has been pretty easy. Since I’ve been in high school, I’ve always been really active. I play tennis, I played it all the way through college. So that part has been pretty easy for me to keep going. But we change as we get married and have kids and we work, so we have to make it work around our family. So for me, the discipline is if I don’t work out in the morning, it doesn’t get done.”
Dr. Littleton: “Oh I see. When you do that, how does it affect how you eat?”
Kelly: “The discipline of getting up and working out — you feel great when you are done. But also, when you go into the kitchen to make your breakfast, you’re totally aware. You want to feel good for the whole day, so I want to fuel my body with what makes me feel good. And that’s through trial and error, finding what works and what doesn’t. And for me, I’ve kind of perfected a system that works and it really has changed the way that I feel. The most important thing is energy. You know with our schedule — when my alarm goes off at six, and you hit the ground running. If you don’t fuel your body with the right foods and with what you are drinking...it sets the tone for the day.”
Kelly goes onto say: “Morning is super pivotal with what you eat. I can’t stress enough, I have a very disciplined routine. I do a plant-based protein shake every single morning. And it’s interesting, people say “There’s no way you can do that every single day.” On the contrary; the body craves it. My husband and I just came back from vacation. And the house that we rented didn’t have a blender. So I had all my stuff to make my protein shakes every day with no way to blend it, and by the end of the week my body was craving that good food that I was feeding it every day. So the body does adjust. I do that, and in the protein shake I put a tablespoon of MTC oil for good brain function, along with collagen powder, unflavored, so you do not taste it. And we know how great collagen powder is for the skin, for your joints. And then I do a scoop of adaptogens for cortisol levels, for stress, for a high-functioning life. And I feel like a champ!”
Dr. Littleton: “That’s amazing. I love your diet routine and your movement routine. So when we talk about the ‘D’ as far as drinking and hydration, you drink a lot of water. Tell me about that.”
Kelly: “I do. Again, small changes. Keep your eye on the ball and be disciplined. I haven’t always been this way but I drink about a gallon of water a day. And just some tidbits on how you can help yourself get to that goal: know how many ounces your water bottle it contains. And then take that and say, “Alright, I need to fill that up six times. That way, you know as you are going through the course of the day, instead of not having a plan, and you’re just drinking a water bottle here and there but you don’t really know — but when you get up, if you know that your goal is to drink five of this, or seven of this, and it equals a gallon. And you’re done! You’ve done it! It’s all about discipline and having that structure, and it’s easy to do!”
Dr. Littleton: “Oh I love it. Water is so important; 75 percent of Americans are dehydrated. When you travel, having a good hydration routine because when you are in an airplane the humidity is one to two percent, approximately, and you can really get dehydrated. That’s one of the reasons people feel so tired when it comes to jet lag, so having a good hydration routine makes a difference.”
“Now, the ‘S’ part stands for sleep. I want to know when you wake up and when you go to bed. Tell us about your sleep routine.”
Kelly: “Six O’Clock, our alarm goes off every morning. And kids will do that for you. They set the pace for us. They have to get ready for school and they are out the door by 7:15. So we are up at six, and we go all day. But sleeping is probably my biggest downfall because after we put the kids to bed and after we wash the dishes after dinner, I tend to want to get on social media or get on the computer; it’s quiet. It’s your thinking time, but all the sudden you look up and it’s 11:15! And my husband is great because he’s really good at going to bed early. And he tells me, “You can’t get your sleep back on the front end. You have to learn to control when to go to bed at night because you have to wake up at six no matter what.” It keeps you regimented.”
“By the mid part of the week, if I’m rolling like that, I know exactly why I feel the way I do. It’s because of sleep. So what I started is, by 10pm, it’s muted — no more. And again, it’s training yourself. It’s easy to get into that pattern where you get into bed and you look at things and you scroll. But like my husband says, it’s nonsense. It’s something that can wait until tomorrow. We just have to train ourselves.”
Dr. Littleton: “These four things that we’ve talked about — move, eat, drink, sleep — and having a routine, just make a world of difference to helping you become more efficient in life, get ahead in life, and feel healthy in your body.”
Let’s start with some good news: Prebiotic skin care is what Aleavia does best. In fact, providing folks looking for an organic, plant-based skin care brand is pretty much all we do!
But the term “prebiotic skin care” isn’t a commonly known one yet. If you happen to have found our blog and website by researching the term “prebiotic skincare,” or something to that effect, then we tip our collective hats to you! Soon, however, the term will become as much of a 21st century household name as probiotics and “gut health” have become over the past few years.
Why do we think so? The two ideas go hand-in-hand, really. Probiotics refer to adding good bacteria (to your gut, usually), whereas prebiotics, or prebiotic skin care, is about nourishing the beneficial bacteria that already exist — whether it be in your digestive tract or on your skin’s microbiome, the living ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms that affect your skin’s health.
Feeding the good microbes offers the byproduct of starving the harmful microorganisms that exist. When you apply to your skin organic ingredients like Acadian Sea Kelp, aloe vera, Dead Sea Salt, citric acid, soy lecithin, and extra virgin coconut oil, the benefits are many:
Again, this is a high-level description of what is happening on the cellular level when using Aleavia prebiotic skincare products. For a more thorough description of prebiotic skin care in particular, simply follow the resource linked above!
As we’ve stated before, we are an organic skin care brand that has a passion for providing people with the most healthy, radiant skin they’ve ever had. Another passion of ours is to provide our customers, and readers at large, with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about what they put on their face and body. A cousin of the skin care industry, cosmetics get our attention in today’s post because we want folks to know that many popular products contain harmful chemicals that include hormone disruptors, carcinogens, reproductive toxins, and beyond.
In today’s post, we’ll take a look at a few of these chemicals and detail what you need to know about them along with the cosmetic products they are commonly found in.
That’s right, coal-tar derived colors are commonly used in cosmetics for no other reason than to make a product look more appealing. You can identify them by a five-digit Color Index (C.I.) number, but they are also at times labeled as “FD&C” or “D&C” preceding a specific color’s name and number.
But should we really care? Yes, we absolutely should, as coal tar is an official human carcinogen. Coal tar colors, both synthetic and natural, are strongly linked with a potential to cause cancer. Moreover, these colors often include metal compounds that have been determined to be toxic to the brain. Many of these aluminum compounds and metals are banned as food additives but are found in cosmetic products like lipstick — certainly something that can be ingested. And while we understand that there are rebuttals about the amount of these substances that need to be ingested in order for adverse possibilities to come to fruition, we would rather err on the side of caution.
You might be like us and would have figured that because people figured out that lead was bad enough to be removed from pencils back in the day, that major cosmetic brands would be decent enough to not put it into lipsticks, foundations, or toothpaste. Well, we all thought wrong.
Almost a decade ago, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics discovered that lead could be found in more than 50 percent of the 33 different brands of lipstick that they tested! And, no, we don’t think these cosmetic brands are evil incarnate by any means, as evidenced by the fact that lead enters these products through manufacturing contamination rather than them being intentionally infused with lead. Regardless, the fact that you can easily ingest lead is alarming; it’s a neurotoxin that’s connected with diminished fertility, hormone imbalance in females, and even miscarriage. Again, we’ll err on the side of safety and go with companies that produce controlled, small batch products rather than trusting the name brands.
We’ve arrived at the chemical that most people are familiar with, parabens. We wouldn’t be surprised if a cursory understanding parabens lead you to research more, which in turn has led to this blog and learning more about organic, prebiotic skin care from a plant-based skin care company!
We digress.
We digress because there are serious issues that need to be addressed regarding parabens. Did you know that the European Commission on Endocrine Disruption has determined parabens to be a “Category 1” priority substance due to the body of evidence that shows they disrupt hormone function? The body easily confuses parabens with estrogen, and that’s not the half of it. They can also cause disrupt the nervous system, the immune system, and the reproductive system — three systems we’d like to be left to their own, natural devices, thank you very much!
A final note about parabens: Don’t be fooled by phenoxyethanol, a commonly used paraben replacement that actually delivers many of the same problematic effects as parabens. Japan has already banned the use of phenoxyethanol, while the U.S. FDA has stated that it can “depress the central nervous system and may cause vomiting and diarrhea” in infants. Suffice it to say, don’t use it in your skin care or cosmetic products!
The final two ingredients we’d recommend being mindful of, and probably just avoiding in general, are BHA and BHT, or butylated hydroxyanisole and butylated hydroxytoluene, respectively. Both are synthetic antioxidants that are found in skin moisturizers, lipsticks, and many other cosmetic products. Used as preservatives, they can cause allergic reactions, have been determined to be a possible human carcinogen, and there is substantial evidence that BHA and BHT can interfere with regular hormone function. Not to harp on the negatives here, but there’s more. Rodents that have been tested with long-term exposure to BHT have contracted liver, kidney, thyroid, lung, and blood problems. There’s more, but we hope you get the idea. However, in the name of fairness, a United Nations Environment Program assessment noted that BHT was safe for human use. We aren’t sure about you, but when the jury is still out, again, we prefer the route of organic caution.
These chemicals have no business being in or on our bodies. At the end of the day, many name brand companies are only concerned about what they can get away with insofar as it affects their bottom line. The good news, however, is that it leaves room for cosmetic and skin care companies that genuinely care what they put in their products. Here at Aleavia, we believe in the power of organic, plant-based purity. Our vegan skin care products work to rebalance your skin, helping it do what already wants to do.
Instead of using antibacterial products or something similar, prebiotic skin care nourishes your skin in an incredible way. Say goodbye to polar extremes of oiliness and dryness, and shop Aleavia Plant-Based Skincare today! ]]>It’s tough to know which companies you can trust, and which organizations are more concerned with the bottom line than actually providing the best for their customers. While this trend extends well beyond that of the world of cosmetics and skin care, we like to stick to what we know here at Aleavia Plant-Based Prebiotic Skincare, so we’ll be sticking with the cosmetic and skin care industry for the purposes of today’s post.
Today’s post concerns dyes. They are found in skin care and cosmetic products all over the place, and have been for some time. At this point, dyes are so common and most people find it difficult to care about everything they put in or on their body, that dyes get the short end of the stick when it comes to consumer-awareness. Later on in today’s post, we’ll highlight what folks need to know about dyes before explaining why Aleavia and our organic skin care brand carries exclusively dye-free skin care products.
But before we get caught up in the whirlwind negatives and fears, let’s talk about something positive — organic, prebiotic skin care!
We’ve said it in posts of the past, and we’ll continue to spread the groundbreaking news that has to do with prebiotic skin care. Simply enough, prebiotics are essentially “superfoods” which nourish the skin. More specifically, prebiotics refer to fibrous ingredients that feed the beneficial bacteria found on your skin. Not to be confused with probiotics, which refer to ingesting the necessary bacteria themselves, prebiotics feeds into what the good microbes on your skin are already doing well, whereby the negative, harmful microorganisms are starved out.
The effect? A more balanced skin pH. Cellular restoration. The repairing of wounds, scars, and blemishes. Increased collagen production. Making your skin appear younger and fresher. Hyaluronic acid production increases, which strengthens the ability of the skin to keep moisture locked in. Common skin problems like eczema, rosacea, acne, psoriasis, and more can often be solved with the power of prebiotics.
With just seven pure, organic ingredients used in our products, we have found that a return to natural simplicity is the answer to many of the modern skin issues folks are faced with today. Below you’ll find a description of each of the aforementioned ingredients found in our vegan skin care products:
The Aleavia Promise
Aleavia Skin Care uses a combination of 100 percent natural, organic and environmentally-safe ingredients. Aleavia is non-toxic, biodegradable, sulfate and sulfite-free, non-GMO, vegan and cruelty-free, and free from all artificial fragrances, dyes, and parabens.
“Changed my skin almost overnight!!! I have tried A LOT of skincare products in my life. I have sensitive and dry skin. Nothing has worked this well this fast. I have had this bottle for 2 weeks and have almost completely clear skin. All that is left are my acne scars which have significantly reduced! Loved it so much I bought the holiday travel trio on their website directly. Don’t hesitate to make this purchase. You won’t regret investing in a non-toxic wash that lives up to the claims.” - Amazon Verified Purchaser, Five Stars
As you can tell, there is a beauty to the simplicity with which we’ve formulated our prebiotic skin care products. We have found that the answer to a wide variety of skin care issues is to help our body’s skin find the harmony it so desperately needs. The skin is a living organ which needs nourishment, not destructive, sweeping antibacterial, chemical-laden skin care products which often do more harm than good.
Dyes are typically artificial colors with chemical additives that exist to change the shade of a particular product. Among these products might be soaps, shower gels, face creams, lotions...you get the idea. There might be numerous dyes, or colorants, found in a single cosmetic product, with each dye containing multiple chemicals. Some artificial dyes contain problematic materials, like coal tar, metal salts, and others. In fact, some of the most commonly used colorants found in skin care products are called FD&C colors — these are derived from coal tar, a byproduct of petroleum.
Coal tar dyes have been studied for their possible link to cancer. And while there does exist some connection, the FDA regulates the amount of arsenic or lead a product is permitted to contain (10 parts per million).
We remain unconvinced. Single studies (or even a few of them) don’t close the book on something for good. For example, there exists a 1984 study that concluded that coal tar dyes were not toxic after experimenting (quite sadly) with mice. Contrast that finding with more recent research which suggests that coal tar dyes are a potential carcinogenic. "Women using permanent hair dye at least once a month for a period more than one year more than double their risk of bladder cancer” (USC School of Medicine, Gago-Dominguez et al. 2001).” That is seriously not good, even if the truth of the matter is somewhere between the findings of these polarized studies!
It doesn’t stop there either. Cosmetic colorants are often made from chromium oxide and aluminum powder. Aluminum powder is a well-known irritant, and chromium oxide is known to cause eye irritation and has been described as a cancer hazard by Material Safety Data Sheet. Fun stuff, huh?
Here are a few more troubling bits of information:
While there need to be more studies performed to decidedly say, “applying these artificial dyes cosmetically leads to x condition,” that’s sort of the point — there is a glaring lack of studies on the matter. And as we noted above, our knowledge on the matter changes over time. What we were sure we knew for fact can quickly become an anticipated and even harmful way of doing things. We don’t mean to stir up any fear or worry in your mind, but we do want our readers to be informed. Understand that we were once in your shoes, looking for an effective yet safe skin care formula.
For example, for decades we’ve been told by the medical powers-that-be that antibiotics are the way to go, in skin care and otherwise. The evidence is becoming more and more clear — we must nurture the good bacteria that exists on our skin just like we need to in our digestive systems. You can do exactly that with Aleavia Prebiotic Skin Care. We are dye-free, fragrance-free, GMO-free, and 100 percent organic, but there is so much more to what we have to offer than that.
If you are ready to do more than just avoid all the bad that is out there, and start thinking about skin care in a revolutionary way, shop Aleavia. We’d love to be a part of the healthiest skin you’ve ever had!]]>In the world of organic acne treatment, vegan skincare, and cosmetics more generally, it can be difficult to know what sort of ingredients are being placed in skin care products that are advertised as being safe. It’s 2018, and even with all our technological improvements over the past century, it’s become no more clear which skin care brands we should trust, and whose we should completely disregard as untrustworthy.
There are plenty of ways which brands, brands not just in the cosmetic industry, can cut corners. By using certain preservatives, GMOs, fragrances, dyes, and even outdated industry knowledge, it’s often the case that consumers aren’t getting what’s best for them. In our previous two posts, we’ve taken a look at the relationship between GMOs and skin care products along with parabens and skin care. While parabens have largely been deemed safe for use (all Aleavia plant-based skin care products are paraben and GMO-free), the presence of GMOs in our food, cosmetic, and skin care products is nothing short of alarming. Check out our full post on this topic, GMOs And Skin Care - Why Aleavia Is A GMO-Free Skin Care Brand, when you get the chance! We do our best to explain our philosophy at Aleavia in addition to a more general picture of the dangers of GMOs in cosmetics.
Aleavia Plant-Based Skincare is:
Each plant-based ingredient we place in our all-natural skin care products is done so purposefully. Extra-virgin coconut oil infuses your skin with vital hydration, but not before organic Acadian Sea kelp gives the skin important nourishment to help restore appropriate pH levels. This helps relieve irritation, while soothing aloe vera purifies the skin, leaving you with a plumped, radiant glow!
Let’s get a bit more specific.
We believe that seven pure and organic ingredients are all it takes to help your skin rebalance itself, leave you hydrated, purified, plumped, and glowing. Mild to moderate to severe skin conditions like rosacea, acne, eczema, and psoriasis are all issues that can be solved according to a simple principle: prebiotic skin care.
We’ve said it in past blogs and we will continue to explain it, because the beauty of prebiotic skin care (and the wealth of benefits it provides us) is in its simplicity. In a basic sense, “prebiotics” refers to the act of feeding the beneficial bacteria found on the skin (whereas “probiotics, a term you might be more familiar with, refers to ingesting beneficial bacteria). While most folks are familiar with gut health and probiotics to a certain degree, there exists plenty of commonality between prebiotic skin care and what many health professionals are coming to believe is a vital part of our overall health. For both our digestive system and our skin’s microbiome (the living ecosystem of microorganisms found on your skin), we need to actively support the positive, good microbes so we can starve the harmful bacteria, yeast, and viruses.
While the vast majority of microbes that exist on your skin are harmless, the act of destroying the bad with the good (through the use of antibacterial cosmetics and skin care products) completely throws our skin’s balance out of whack. Aleavia’s prebiotic skin care formula helps the beneficial bacteria fight the good fight, as it were, so that balance can be restored to the universe that is your skin’s microbiome. Restoring a harmonious relationship with the microscopic life found on the microbiome, as opposed to essentially “nuking” everything on your skin through antibacterial products, is the key to achieving healthy skin. While there is certainly more that goes into it than what we’ve described above, the concept of feeding the good bacteria on our skin is far from rocket science — and we hope you can tell why exactly we are so passionate about our organic skin care brand that has harnessed the science of prebiotics!
“This gentle cleanser and facial mist combo definitely calmed my skin down. It helped clear up my breakouts and I have a lot less flare ups. I would definitely repurchase. I was having a hard time finding a face cleanser that wouldn't dry out my skin and this definitely does NOT. It gently cleans and doesn't strip the moisture from my skin.” - Jdominguezas, Verified Purchaser
As this loyal customer, along with many others, have testified, Aleavia prebiotic skin care is worth the investment. Now that we’ve had the chance to tell a little bit more about ourselves, we have a promised blog topic to get to!
As we mentioned above, all of our skin care products are free of fragrances, as opposed to many popular products on the market. Does it matter? Should we care? In a word, yes. But let’s look into the matter a bit more.
Excellent question, allow us to explain: Fragrances are scents that lawmakers define in one of two ways.
It’s not too complicated to understand why fragrances are included in cosmetic products — people like smelling aromas, and people like smelling good — it’s attractive. Businesses have found that if they can infuse a product with a positive scent, sales will improve, generally speaking. Truth be told, some products that have no added scent don’t smell so great, which will deter most people from any benefits that same product might offer.
The Dangers Thereof
Unfortunately, things are not always what they seem, and in this case, there is more to the situation than meets the...nose. Fragrances are active contributors to common skin problems like psoriasis and eczema, which are two problems that Aleavia and our organic treatment can go a long way toward clearing up.
Fragrances cause allergic reactions, which lead to skin irritation and worse. Among the “worse” might be any combination of nausea, hives, headaches, eczema, asthma, psoriasis, allergies...and the list goes on.
Simply put, your nose and skin don’t always agree with what is best for you.
At this point, you might be wondering if there are any sort of regulations regarding fragrances in cosmetic products. While brands have to disclose if there is “perfume” in a product, fragrances are conveniently labeled “trade secrets” which means that brands can keep specifics proprietary so that the competition can’t steal the secret sauce.
Aleavia Plant-Based Prebiotic Skincare products are comprised of just seven plant-based ingredients. Among these are extra-virgin coconut oil, Acadian Sea Kelp, plant-based glycerin, organic aloe, sea salt, and citric acid. We have found that using simple, pure, organic ingredients is the key to helping your skin and body rebalance itself, rehydrate itself, and generally lead to the healthiest skin you’ve ever achieved.
Each ingredient has been intentionally included in our organic skin care line. They work individually and in concert to work wonders for your skin. For example the Aleavia Purifying Facial Cleanse first sloughs off dead skin cells, excess oil, and toxins to bring the skin’s pH level back to an appropriate, balanced level. This relieves irritation and the extreme skin problems often experienced by using antibacterial skin care lines. Nutrient-rich Acadian Sea kelp offers the beneficial bacteria on your skin the nourishment it needs to help them thrive, which in turn starves harmful bacteria, virus, and other malicious microbes that need to be dealt with in a natural way. Extra-virgin coconut oil is the ingredient we’ve found that effectively hydrates the skin, while organic aloe vera purifies the skin, leaving you with a radiant, natural glow. With consistent use, acne, psoriasis, eczema, and other serious skin problems can be solved. Our organic facial cleanser does much more than simply affect the surface of your skin. It goes beyond removing impurities found on the surface to nourish, purify, balance, and plump the skin to bring out the best skin you’ve ever had. And this is just our prebiotic face wash! We have many others as well.
Linda F., had this to say in her five-star testimonial she was kind enough to send us:
“Best facial cleanser ever. I started using Aleavia products early this year. It took about three months for my facial redness to disappear. I've been wearing less makeup while going out, and, sometimes, not wearing foundation at all! So affordable and an eco-friendly product to boot! Thanks to my local nutrition store that carried the brochures and the products to introduce them to the public.”
The best uses for our Purifying Facial Cleanse include:
All our prebiotic skincare products are entirely organic, natural, non-toxic, environmentally-friendly, chemical and paraben-free, safe for everyone in the family (even the little ones), vegan, cruelty-free, free of all fragrances and dyes, and GMO-free.
That last element we mentioned, the GMO (genetically modified organism), is what we will be discussing for the remainder of today’s post. As you no doubt can already tell, we have a vested interest in what belongs in skin care products. Although there are just seven organic ingredients found in Aleavia’s organic skin care products, that isn’t always the case with other brands.
But does it matter? Today, we answer that question, with particular respect to GMOs in cosmetic and skin care products.
Many of our readers might already be familiar with the basics of genetically modified organisms, but for the sake of making sure everyone is on the same page, allow us to define our terms a bit.
GMOs are organisms that have had their genes altered in an artificial way in order to change their characteristics in a certain way. GMOs are not only found in skin care or cosmetic products, either, as they might be animals, plants, or (typically) microorganisms like bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi. We aren’t going to be discussing the full range of issues that are related to GMOs, as that would almost certainly qualify as “biting off more than we could chew.”
As we mentioned above, GMOs have had their genetics changed, which is no small thing. In fact, you could say that changing something’s base elements, like its genes, is changing the very essence of that thing itself. That’s more of a question for the philosophers, however.
Major skin care and cosmetic brands use GMOs to save money and be able to offer their product at a lower price than competitors — it’s really not too complicated to understand, as we see that sort of thing all the time these days. Here are a few food derivatives with a strong likelihood of containing GMOs that are used in food production. Hence, they might be found in cosmetic ingredients as well.
There are more than a few different ways GMOs can spell trouble if they are found in cosmetic products you typically use. Among them are:
The list goes on. But that’s enough for now, right?
Here’s our take: We aren’t here to tell you that every other skin care brand in existence is beyond bad and we are the only ones to use. We are saying, however, that consumers have to be diligent about what we put in and on our bodies. All the technology and new research in the world doesn’t mean much if there aren’t brands that have our best interest out there.
And yes, we say “us” when referring to consumers, because Aleavia’s beginnings involve a story that may not be unfamiliar to many of our own readers; Kelly, our owner and founder, was seeking a skin care solution for her daughter, who was dealing with eczema. The answer is in organic, plant-based, prebiotic skin care — feeding the good bacteria on your skin to rebalance and hydrate your skin in an amazing way. Try Aleavia and prebiotic skin care for yourself! We are more than simply GMO-free. ]]>A few of our more recent posts have involved discussing what exactly can be found in our prebiotic skin care products. Aleavia Plant-Based Prebiotic Skincare believes that organic simplicity is the key to unlocking beautiful, healthy skin. Our all-natural skin care products are comprised of 7 plant-based ingredients — with each being intentionally included to fulfill a particular purpose. From Acadian Sea Kelp and coconut oil to plant-derived glycerin, aloe, and sea salt, our organic skin care brand is dedicated to helping your body fulfill what it is already trying to do — rebalance and hydrate the skin on your face and body.
The science behind prebiotic skin care underpins our entire plant-based skin care brand. While most folks are familiar with probiotics these days (feeding your gut the “good bacteria” it needs, in so many words) prebiotics are more of a novel concept to most. Prebiotics, conceptually, isn’t that complicated! It is essentially feeding the good bacteria and beneficial microbes found on your skin’s microbiome, the teeming ecosystem on your skin that is comprised of billions of microorganisms. When people use antiseptic skin care products that destroy the good and bad microbes, the skin is no longer in balance.
When the skin on your body and face is no longer balanced, trouble arises in the form of common skin problems like rosacea, eczema, acne, psoriasis, and beyond. Aleavia Prebiotic Skincare products are nutrient-rich, giving starving skin vital nourishment. Prebiotic skin care moistures the skin through our organic extra-virgin coconut oil while the soothing aloe vera purifies the skin. The end result is a radiant, hydrated, natural glow that is often the best most people have ever achieved.
Some of the best uses for Aleavia Purifying Facial Cleanse, along with many other of our prebiotic skin care products, are listed below.
Victorianna Chavez, had the following to say in her five-star testimonial she wrote to us about our prebiotic face wash and prebiotic body wash: “So I've been using the face wash and mist/ lavender body wash for ten days now and I really do love it! I recommend that when you wash your face you really rub it in for like thirty seconds because I saw more of a change when I did that. My face is so soft after using it. The body wash is also great, I like how the lavender is stronger than most lavender washes. I'm giving it four stars because the price is a little high, it's a gel so it doesn't foam up and feel as clean when you're washing your body, and your eyes will burn if you get the smallest amount in so be careful! The face mist also burns my eyes so it's hard to miss your eyes with a spray so when you open it's like bam!”
As you can no doubt already tell, we are thrilled about the ability to share what we have found to be the most effective form of skin care on the market. There’s nothing fancy about it — just seven pure ingredients and a developed understanding as to what many modern cosmetic and skin care products do to our skin when we “zap” the good bacteria with the bad. The concept of restoring our gut’s beneficial microbes and those found are our skin is largely the same, if that helps you conceptualize what is happening. We need to help our body do what it already is doing well for itself, rather than stripping away its defenses, sending it careening it a polarized state of dryness or over-oiliness, if that’s a word!
As the title of today’s post already alluded to, we will be spending the remainder of this blog discussing the nature of parabens and how they relate to the skin care world, along with what you should know and do about it. Knowing what is actually in your skin care and cosmetic products is important, because most of us are applying these formulas to our skin regularly. Over time, the results are likely to compound, as evidenced by Mercola’s estimate that the body can absorb up to five pounds of cosmetic chemicals every year!. All of us need to be sure that what we are feeding our skin on a consistent basis is contributing to our wellbeing.
Simply put, parabens are preservatives of a synthetic nature that are utilized in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, foods, and personal care products like shampoos, moisturizers, and even deodorants. There are various types of parabens, as you might find ingredients like “propylparaben,” “methylparaben,” or butylparaben” found on several of the products housed in your bathroom cabinet. Parabens are included in these products so that they don’t turn over time, as some products are made to last for years. We aren’t sure why someone would want shampoo or deodorant to last numerous years, but that’s none of our business we suppose!
At Aleavia Skin Care, we don’t like to be negative. But we are proponents of the truth. In the same way that antibacterial products aren’t doing what we have been told they were, for decades and decades, parabens are a popular component that are said to have an unwelcome impact. Are they safe to use?
There has been extensive research with regard to parabens and how they impact the human hormonal, or endocrine, system. For a long time, there has been concern regarding estrogen disruption, in particular, in addition to problems linked with parabens that include premature puberty, decreased sperm production, and breast cancer. In the 90s, parabens were labeled xenoestrogens, meaning that they were considered agents that mimic estrogen in the body. This led to paraben levels being restricted in common products in numerous countries. This was the result of one British study, administered by Phillipa Darbre, Ph.D., which found parabens within breast cancer tissue. However, and we do mean however, the study has been poured over by other experts, who have critiqued the study for failing to examine non-cancerous tissue from healthy breasts in order to see if parabens were also present there. Essentially, this means that there is no reason to think that the parabens had anything to do with the cancer itself.
Though The American Cancer Society, the FDA, Health Canada, The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, and The Personal Care Products Council have all expressly stated that parabens have no associated health risk, we at Aleavia Prebiotic Skin Care have made sure we do not carry any skin care products with parabens. It very well may be that parabens are innocuous, but we also have long enough memories to remember many other times when seemingly the entire medical community was sure on a particular topic, only to realize years later they’ve been telling people falsehoods for decades. We aren’t fear mongering, we aren’t conspiracy theorists, for goodness sake, but we understand that time changes our understanding of health and medicine.
On the flip side, organic, natural, plant-based ingredients are never going to be potentially deemed unhealthy years later. That’s just not a thing, folks.
When you choose Aleavia and our organic skin care brand, you are opening yourself up to the possibility that our society might have been getting it wrong — for a long time. But beyond who was wrong and who is right, it’s about being healthy and whole, for the first time for many. We encourage you to read a few of our testimonials, learn more about the science of prebiotic skin care, and try it for yourself. Healthy, hydrated, glowing skin is possible. Shop Aleavia today!
]]>When we hear about customers of ours who have dealt with eczema, it’s a topic that hits close to home for us at Aleavia Prebiotic Plant-Based Skincare. Kelly Graham, our owner and founder, began Aleavia with one concept in mind - we need to nourish the largest organ, your skin, with the nutrients that it needs. Doing so is just as important as making sure what you feed the inside of your body is healthy and beneficial. The reasons for founding Aleavia go well beyond that, however, as Kelly’s own daughter had dealt with an ongoing bout of eczema for some time — with no success to be found, no matter what kind of treatment she had tried.
Driven by a maternal sense of desperation to solve her daughter’s problematic skin condition, Kathy left no stone unturned in the realm of all-natural remedies. Once she realized that the body’s natural ability to protect itself is removed when we use chemically-derived beauty products and antibacterial topicals, she realized that she had identified the problem — now she needed the solution. Once Kelly discovered the remarkable science behind prebiotic skin care, she found a formulator who had been making prebiotic formulas for a long while. Seeing the power of prebiotics first-hand is impressive, especially when it can solve the long-term eczema problem your kin has been dealing with. Once Kelly witnessed what plant-based prebiotic skincare could do, it was time that the world should find out about
Aleavia Origins
Working closely with her formulator, Kelly developed a plant-based, entirely organic skin care solution that feeds the beneficial bacteria already living on your body and face. Penetrating the skin and working on a cellular level, the benefits of our plant-based prebiotic skin care formula are many. From reducing the appearance of scars, blemishes, wounds, and aging to promoting collagen production, rebalancing your skin’s pH levels and solving long-term issues like eczema, acne, and rosacea — it’s amazing what can happen when you help your body do what it naturally wants to do. Instead of killing the good bacteria with the innocuous and harmful microbes found on your skin’s microbiome, as is the case when using antibacterial topical skin care treatments, Aleavia prebiotic skin care nourishes your body using seven plant-based ingredients.
Aleavia Enzymatic Body Cleanse gently yet effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and toxins from the surface of your skin, while the fiber-based prebiotic nourishment feeds the good bacteria already living on your skin. This starves the unhealthy while helping the good microbes to thrive. Using Acadian Sea kelp, organic olive oil, pure aloe vera, and other organic ingredients, our natural eczema treatment sloughs off dead skin cells while balancing the pH levels. This lets your skin breathe. With repeated use, you can say goodbye to dead, dry skin, and say hello to your newfound luxurious, silky skin.
We recommend using our all-natural enzymatic skin care product as a full-body cleanser to achieve silky soft skin. But you can also use it as a shampoo and facial cleanser, and you’ll find the results to be quite satisfactory! Other uses included to help stabilize pH, eliminate body odor, reduce the fresh burns and scars, and even to eliminate psoriasis and k from your body.
Our organic eczema cleanser is:
“This cleanser really has helped my skin tremendously. For the past two years I have been dealing with extremely dry skin that reacted to everything I tried with a red burning rash. This product has really been great to help all of it. Thank you so much for making this product line. I am user for life.” - Darcii D., Five Stars, Verified Purchaser