bookmark_borderWhy You Should Choose a Natural Sunscreen

It’s a no-brainer that sunscreen is an extremely important part of everyone’s daily skincare routine, but what specific types of sunscreen should you be using? Natural sunscreens have become more widely produced and available at affordable prices, making this the clear choice. Below are a few reasons why you should choose a natural sunscreen.

They don’t contain harmful toxins. Some sunscreens contain ingredients such as retinyl palmitate and retinyl acetate (derivatives of Vitamin A that could speed up the development of skin tumors and lesions) or ozybenzone (could disrupt hormones by penetrating the skin and entering the bloodstream).  Instead, look for mineral-based ingredients that won’t penetrate the skin, like zinc or titanium oxide.

Natural sunscreens often are unscented. Fragrances in sunscreens are often petroleum-based and can lead to organ toxicity and allergies. People with sensitive skin or skin that burns/breaks out easily should avoid anything with fragrances as well.

You’re helping the environment. Sunscreens that don’t contain these harmful toxins won’t get released into the environment. Any mineral that is harmful to humans to put on their skin also is generally harmful to wildlife and their ecosystems. You could also take into consideration that sunscreens with natural ingredients are produced in a more eco-friendly way as well, but this isn’t proven yet.

bookmark_borderHow to Prevent Chapped Skin

As the seasons start to change and winter rolls in, our skin becomes drier and requires a lot more care. One of the culprits to bad skin during winter is the cool winds. Cold and strong wings cause chapped skin all over the body- including your face, lips and hands. In addition to treating already chapped skin, you can work to prevent it from happening with a few simple steps.

How to Soothe Already Chapped Skin

Moisturize. Apply a thick, unscented moisturizer all over the chapped areas, paying special attention to any area that is badly chapped or has cuts on it. Moisturizer that is applied directly to the skin will keep water from evaporating and give your skin a dewy appearance. Use a gentle moisturizer on delicate areas such as your face, and a thicker one on your hands.

Use mild soaps and products. Avoid anything with large or harsh exfoliating beads or ingredients- they will only further irritate the chapped skin. Look for natural products made for sensitive skin.

Use a humidifier. This will help keep the air in your home moist. Leave it on while you sleep- it will do wonders for chapped lips, especially.

How to Prevent Chapped Skin

Use sunscreen daily. Many people forget to use sunscreen in the winter since it’s hard to feel the warmth of the sun that summer gives so easily. But you can still damage your skin and get burnt, chapped skin from a day spent outdoors in the winter. If you often forget to apply sunscreen, choose a daily moisturizer with SPF mixed in already and apply it all over your face each morning.

Wear protective clothing. Always shield your face from the harsh cold and winds with proper outerwear, such as hats, earmuffs and hoods on coats. To prevent chapped hands, wear thick gloves or mittens. And don’t forget about your neck! A scarf will work wonders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

bookmark_borderWhy Are Enzymes So Important?

Enzymes are described as a substance produced by a living organism that acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction. They are chemicals that work to speed up the rate of chemical reactions in biological processes.

Enzymes are chemicals that speed up the rate of chemical reactions without being consumed in the reaction themselves. They’re incredibly useful in biological processes because they can make a reaction that normally requires that dangerously-high temperatures occur at normal body temperatures. In the food industry, enzymes are used to help ripen fruits, tenderize meats and produce things like wine and cheese.

How Are Enzymes Used in Skincare?

Enzymes are used mainly in two processes: anti-inflammation and exfoliation. In exfoliation, enzymes are generally gentler than other scrubs or microdermabrasion procedures. The layers of skin you want to exfoliate (the upper layers) are made of dean skin cells, and the enzymes work to break down that skin protien, which results in smoother and younger-looking skin. Enzymes exfoliate and replenish without feeling like you’re exfoliating- a win-win. Since enzymes are gentle, they work well for all skin types, even sensitive skin.

Enzymes also work to protect skin against oxidative damage (sun, pollution, etc.) You’ll find them in sunscreens, moisturizers, peels and various treatments. Enzymes are said to work to brighten skin as well.