Liz Thompson – EcoSalon

Natural Perfume In the Spotlight As Traditional Fragrance Sales Plummet

Liz Thompson — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 07:00:54 +0000

iStock/BlackbourneA

Those celeb fragrances that were once so popular are seeing a major decline in sales as natural perfume moves in. Personal fragrance has evolved and you are going to want in on this beautifully-scented action.

According to NPD Group Inc., sales for celebrity fragrances in the U.K. market saw a decline from 2015 to 2016 of 22%. Those star-backed scents are beginning to stink here in the U.S. too as sales plummeted from 12% of the market in 2012 to a mere 4% in 2016. Not sweet.

Artisanal and niche fragrances, however, are the fastest growing segments of the fragrance market, and some big names are getting in on the sweet-smelling action. Take Jason Wu, for example. The designer is creating his first fragrance with ingredients he chose personally. Estee Lauder recently acquired Le Labo fragrance brand that has a following amongst those looking for an artisanal feel. And cosmetic giant L’Oreal is also dabbling in niche perfumery.

The market hype surrounding many of these new fragrances comes with the word “niche”. While natural beauty is still often referred to using this term, it doesn’t necessarily signify that the product is made completely with natural ingredients and no synthetic ingredients, including fragrance ingredients. “Niche” can simply imply a more hand-crafted, apothecary style vibe.

As with all natural beauty shopping, it’s important to know what is in a product in order to tell if it is truly natural. And this can get particularly tricky with fragrance. You may know which ingredients to avoid and how to read product labels, but if the ingredients aren’t listed that can be a problem.

It’s not uncommon for a brand, conventional or natural, to use the term “fragrance” on ingredient listings. Laws protect manufacturers’ trade secrets and they are not required to list out each individual fragrance ingredient they use. This is particularly important for perfume creators, but may soon change with the new Procter & Gamble initiative to disclose fragrance ingredients.

The first place to look on a brand website, if full ingredient listings are not available, is the ingredient commitment page. Does the brand share how they choose ingredients? Do they give a list of ingredients they never use? If not, it’s time to do more digging.

Some larger retailers, like Nordstrom and Amazon, will give full ingredient listings for many products. If you come up against that slick blanket term “fragrance” and there is no notation like “made from natural ingredients” or “naturally sourced” it’s safe to assume some synthetic fragrance ingredients are involved.

As Josh Rosebrook, Founder of Josh Rosebrook Skin and Hair Care, puts it, “Conventional synthetic perfumers are not going to offer completely pure formulations in their perfumes. They might add a few essential oils and market their whole product as natural, but they will probably always use synthetic aromas and fixatives for staying power and boosting fragrances.”

Not surprisingly, price is also a factor in choosing the healthiest ingredients for perfumes. “Pure, unadulterated essential oils and absolutes are also very expensive,” said Rosebrook, “and do not lend to the margins major conventional perfume brands need to rake in huge profits per unit.”

Any awareness of natural beauty is productive. The natural beauty market as a whole is seeing huge growth. But it’s super important to follow and support brands who are authentic and using high-quality, naturals, and who are willing to share the whole story with you on what they use in products.

Nadine Artemis, Cofounder of Living Libations, literally wrote the book on natural perfumery. In “Renegade Beauty”, Artemis’ forthcoming book on natural fragrance, she says that “pure plant perfumes” are not only safer than synthetic fragrance ingredients but “are immune enhancing and are the remedy to many synthetic-stimulated issues.”

Now, you may be wondering if completely natural fragrance lives up to traditional perfume status in terms of performance. It’s true that in the past natural fragrance had a few important components missing. First, because essential oils played a starring role in most fragrance combinations, they were earthy and less refined. Secondly, the scent seemed to disappear within minutes. Good for instant aromatherapy? Sure. To keep you smelling lovely all day? Not so much.

Like all natural cosmetics, natural perfumes have come a long way, too. Today’s natural scents rival conventional perfumes in scent quality and staying power. They are meticulously crafted blends designed to offer intricate scent combinations that last a longer time. As Rosebrook said, “The most aromatic and long-lasting ingredients for perfuming are of the highest quality, organic, or wild-harvested from trusted farms.”

4 Natural Perfumes to Try

1. Josh Rosebrook Ethereal

If you are new to naturals, this is the one to get you started. An all natural and organic combination, this perfume is spicy and warm, but soft enough to please even the most sensitive sniffers.

2. Living Libations Night Flight to Venus

Like frolicking through a fairy tale forest, these exquisitely blended perfumes are essential oil combos with a base of biodynamic grape alcohol to make the scent last. Night Flight to Venus, a mix of vanilla and jasmine, is the perfect scent for those who love a warm floral.

3. Vered Organic Botanical Blue Violet Perfume

It doesn’t have to be summer to indulge your senses in a fresh floral. This beauty melds jasmine and violet with citrus for a crisp aroma.

4. Strange Invisible L’Invisible

A delicately-scented citrus vanilla aroma with undertones of florals. This soft, fresh scent is both luxe and feminine.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

The post Natural Perfume In the Spotlight As Traditional Fragrance Sales Plummet appeared first on EcoSalon.

Skincare Cocktailing is the Best Way to Get Targeted Beauty Solutions

Liz Thompson — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 07:00:45 +0000

iStock/bakharev

Using multi-product beauty lines, no questions asked, is so ‘90s. Today we know how to select those products that work for our own specific skin types and the issues we are looking to treat. Skincare cocktailing takes product selection to a whole new level. As in, several treatments in one beautiful bottle.

Customized skincare isn’t exactly new. Adding tint or sunscreen to your favorite facial moisturizer is a form of custom skincare. But skincare cocktailing is different. These solutions are lighter consistency (think toners, serums, oils, and thinner skin treatments) that combine several steps into one product.

Yes, skincare cocktails mean fewer products and a simplified beauty routine. Cleanser, cocktail, maybe a moisturizer, and sun protection are all you need. But the best part? You can customize these beauties so they are targeted to your exact skin issues.

This all sounds like a skincare dream come true. So, of course, I had to try it for myself. You can create a DIY cocktail at home using products you’ve chosen, but be sure when using essential oils to dilute properly before adding.

I’d rather leave it to the experts and enlisted the help of the skincare cocktailing gurus at Source Vitál Apothecary. The natural skincare brand has designed its own formula for creating customized facial cocktails and offer the service online or in-store.

A Skincare Cocktailing Experience With Source Vitál Apothecary

Source Vitál first came up with the custom facial cocktail when it was noticed that customers were purchasing infusions and making cocktails on their own. The brand liked the idea of making these serums in front of the customer, and the personalized system was born.

I sat down via video call with sales associate and cocktailing extraordinaire Sophia Peón-Leyva and Paul Colgin, CEO of Source Vitál Apothecary, to watch my custom serum being hand-blended. The process starts with a base chosen by skin type. Theses bases are a combination of two Source Vitál products that help other ingredients to absorb into the skin. While my skin is often on the dry side, it also tends to be sensitive, so I opted for the Rose blend. Plus, I love the way rose oil makes my skin feel.

The second step is choosing active ingredients. There are seven serum options to choose from and this is where you get to totally customize your cocktail. I chose Restorative and Soothing solutions for this step to give a youthful look, and keep my complexion even-toned and calm.

Next, in step three, you select additional “shots” for your cocktail. These give the cocktail a powerful boost of effectiveness and, again, you can choose what you like. I opted for Abyssinian oil for moisture and suppleness, plus Chlorella Gold, a new ingredient that is extracted from algae and helps to stimulate anti-aging effects. Woo hoo!

These facial cocktails have a fluid, liquid consistency but are also hydrating. It feels more like a moisturizing serum mixed with facial essence than a facial oil. My cocktail makes my skin look calm and toned, but also gives it a pretty glow. And it’s super softening. I use it on clean skin and top with my daily moisturizer once it has a chance to soak in.

Purchasing a custom facial cocktail takes the guess work out of choosing a serum for your skin. It is also more economical. Rather than purchasing a serum, facial oil, and treatment, they are all right there in one bottle. And additional serums can be created for different times of year, travel, day, night, or when new skin concerns crop up. For example, use a serum with toning and brightening properties for day, and calming, restorative qualities at night. Or mix up a more emollient blend that treats redness or irritation for dry winter months.

How fun is that? Not only do these custom skincare treats give your skin exactly what it needs, but you can switch it up as often as you like. Each bottle is $44.95 plus an extra $2 per shot. Source Vitál cocktails last approximately one month when used once daily and come in one ounce bottles, perfect for travel. Nothing says custom skincare like having your name on the label.

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6 Sweet Reasons You’ll Want to Use Honey for Skin

Liz Thompson — Mon, 25 Sep 2017 07:00:30 +0000

iStock/shapecharge

A dab of honey is the perfect way to sweeten tea (hot or iced!), the only way to eat cornbread, and an effective scratchy throat soother. The sticky substance also offers a host of skincare benefits. Here’s how to sweeten your beauty routine with honey for skin.

September is National Honey Month. No better time to deliver the buzz on honey and learn more about honey bees.

Honey bee hives are diminishing and taking more than sweet honey with them. Bees pollinate our plants, and fewer pollinators mean fewer fruits and veggies. Chocolate and coffee would take a hit, too. Experts believe they could be decreasing due to pesticides. The Environmental Protection Agency lists ways we can help to protect honey bees.

Not only is the thought of fewer honey bees sad, but who wants to live in a world without honey? We know it tastes delicious, but let’s dive deeper into what honey can do for your skin.

6 Beauty Benefits of Honey for Skin

1. Soften: There is nothing like a honey mask to leave skin ultra soft. The moisturizing effects of this ingredient are due to honey’s humectant properties, which helps skin to retain moisture and prevents moisture loss.

2. Heal: Ayurveda uses honey as an antiseptic, to speed healing of cuts and burns. Try using honey as a chapped lip fix to repair raw skin on your pucker. It also helps to fade scars and dark spots.

3. Soothe: Natural anti-inflammatory properties make honey a super skin soother. Use to treat irritation or redness. Also makes a calming treatment for inflammatory skin conditions, like eczema.

4. Clear: Honey is a natural antibacterial. A study by the University of Wales showed that honey is effective in slowing the growth of MRSA. If it can tackle a skin infection that nasty, think what it can do for acne. Use as a honey facial mask to clear pores and spot treat for stubborn flare ups.

5. Exfoliator: The gluconic acid in honey makes it a natural exfoliant. Use to accelerate the sloughing of dead skin cells for smooth, healthy skin.

6. Radiance Enhancer: Need a glow booster? Honey to the rescue! The ingredient revs up circulation and gets skin glowing.

Different Types of Honey for Skin

Raw Honey: Many honey aficionados feel raw honey is the best type for use on skin because it isn’t stripped of natural nutrients and enzymes. Raw honey is unpasteurized and never heated above 115 degrees Fahrenheit, and contains the naturally occurring live antioxidants and bacteria that are beneficial to skin. Most raw honey is lightly filtered to remove impurities.

Organic Honey: As with food, organic honey is produced without pesticides and GMOs. The problem with organic honey is that its makers, the honey bees, can pick up pesticides from non-organic crops, so it is often difficult to determine if a honey is truly 100% organic.

Manuka Honey: Made only from the manuka tree in New Zealand, this honey contains live enzymes, is high in antibacterial properties, and is thought to hold powerful medicinal qualities.

Acacia Honey: A lightweight and transparent honey, it is made from the nectar of the acacia flower. Lower in antibacterial properties, Acacia honey isn’t as effective in treating acne but is soothing to dry or chapped skin.

Buckwheat Honey: Made from nectar collected from the buckwheat flower, this type of honey is loaded with antioxidants. A good choice for protecting the skin against signs of aging and environmental damage.

Neem Honey: A popular Ayurvedic remedy, neem honey helps to clear the skin, improves skin tone, and evens out pigmentation.

Sweet Products With Honey for Skin

Honey can be used on its own, as part of a DIY beauty treatment, or in a prepared product. It’s good for all skin types and works on most skin conditions.

If you decide to go the DIY route, try combining your choice of honey with a bit of organic milk to make a skin smoothing face and body exfoliator. Check out how to make honey face masks for every skin type by Hello Glow.

UMA Absolute Anti-Aging Face Mask: Refine pores, smooth skin, and soften lines and wrinkles with this honey-based face mask.

The Beauty Chef Beauty Fix Balm: A honey-infused skin fixer that heals, moisturizes, and soothes the skin.

La Bella Figura Purifying Manuka Honey Mask: Detox skin and clear up breakouts with this raw manuka honey mask.

May Lindstrom The Honey Mud: Cleanse, nourish, and revitalize the complexion with this gentle, yet intensive, honey cleanser.

Osmia Organics Honey Myrrh Lip Repair: A fast acting lip balm that softens, smooths, and moisturizes dry, rough lips.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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5 Reasons Facial Essences are the Latest for Beautiful Skin

Liz Thompson — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:02:37 +0000

iStock/jeffbergen

Whether you take a minimalist approach to skincare or love to multi-step, facial essences are products you’ll want to get your hands on. First, let’s zero in on what facial essences really are and what they do for skin.

The Korean beauty movement ushered in the multi-step skincare routine in a huge way. Multi-masking, skincare cocktailing, and layering are commonplace skincare practices these days. The current favorite of the Kb skincare world, facial essences, are making a particularly big splash.

What are Facial Essences?

Not a toner. Not a serum. Not a facial oil. What are these mysterious liquid beauty treatments?

At first glance, facial essences look similar to toner. Yes, they are watery, but they contain different ingredients and have different effects on skin. Facial essences are formulated with powerful actives and moisturizing ingredients. Unlike your average toner or micellar water, which are used to clean and clarify the skin, essences are highly concentrated floral water, botanical, and natural oil blends. Think of them as a facial serum in liquid form.

How to Use Facial Essences

Due to the watery nature of facial essences, you may be tempted to swipe the face with an essence-soaked cotton pad post-cleanse. They do go on after you clean your face and before adding your treatments and moisturizer, but since these formulas are meant to treat the skin, rather than cleanse, you want to make sure every drop soaks in.

There are two ways to get the most from your facial essence. Either add a pump or two of essence to the palm of your hand and pat into skin, or mist onto the face and pat it in. It’s the patting in part that is important. This way your complexion reaps the benefits of those healthy ingredients and no precious drops are wasted.

Another way to use facial essences is to combine them with another product, like a serum or facial oil. This is a great way to decrease the oiliness of a facial oil, and boost the nourishing and reparative properties of a serum.

5 Reasons to Use Facial Essences

1. Perk Up Skin: Glowing skin is never a bad thing. Dryness is one of the main glow-sappers and facial essence is moisture rescue in a bottle. Try Aurelia Probiotic Skincare Calming Botanical Essence to boost radiance and banish dullness due to jet lag, lack of sleep, and other skin stressors. Made with pure glacier water to balance the skin and rose quartz for balancing the spirit.

2. Soften and Moisturize: There are many causes for dehydrated skin. Adding in a floral essence with hyaluronic acid, like Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence, will help to keep skin moisturized. Stock before winter arrives.

3. Prep the Skin: Facial essences help other skin treatments, like serums and moisturizers, more easily soak into skin. They also act as a hydrating facial primer, so foundation looks smooth and even. In Fiore Vitale Toning Floral Essence is an aloe-based option, suitable for all skin types.

4. Plump & Smooth: A facial essence that firms the skin and softens lines? That’s In Fiore Régénerant. Made with rose water, natural humectants, and plant actives, it plumps the complexion while kicking dryness to the curb.

5. Balance Oil: Facial essences are a dry-skinned girl’s dream. That doesn’t mean they can’t be used by those with oily skin, too. Adding a pump or spritz of facial essence to your favorite serum or moisturizer, instead of layering underneath, works best on oilier skin types. Give Odacite Mint + Green Tea Treatment Mist a try, formulated to soothe skin and reduce breakouts.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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What the New Procter & Gamble Fragrance Ingredient Disclosure Really Means

Liz Thompson — Tue, 12 Sep 2017 17:44:40 +0000

image via Pantene/Instagram

Those of us in the nontoxic beauty camp rarely bother to look at mainstream beauty brands. We know what we will find, and what we won’t find, once we are in those toxic-heavy aisles. Then a brand like Procter & Gamble goes and sets a new standard on something as huge as ingredient disclosure — and now there’s new reason for a second glance.

The personal care and cleaning product giant, creators of lines like Olay and Pantene, may not be the first brand you run to when shopping for natural beauty products. That doesn’t mean they aren’t part of a larger effort to improve the shopping experience.

Procter & Gamble recently announced its move to disclose fragrance ingredients on all of its products and lines sold in the U.S. and Canada by 2019. P&G is the largest brand of its type to move to this level of detailed ingredient transparency.

Synthetic fragrances are some of the most hazardous ingredients used in beauty products, linked to allergic reaction, skin irritation, headache, hormonal disruption, and impaired fetal development. While all cosmetic products are required under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FP&L Act) to carry a full ingredient listing, fragrance ingredients are protected by a trade secret loophole.

The FP&L Act states that no trade secrets are required to be divulged, and this includes signature scent blends. Basically, a brand can use the terms “perfume” or “fragrance” on a product label to cover all of the fragrance ingredients used in order to protect its secret recipe. Understandable in a capitalist economy. Even some natural brands utilize this loophole but will usually note if those ingredients come from natural sources.

The double whammy of synthetic fragrance ingredients carrying significant health risks and the ability to hide under a trade secret clause is double troubling. This new move to transparency by P&G will prompt other brands to come clean on what they are using as fragrance ingredients and let consumers decide if they want to use the product or not.

“This is a major victory for consumers. It will inevitably push the market towards greater transparency because companies can no longer hide behind the long-used excuse that fragrance disclosure is impossible,” Nneka Leiba, Director of Healthy Living Science at Environmental Working Group (EWG) said in a statement.

And consumer demand is what pushed this move in the first place. “It is clear Procter & Gamble is listening to its customers and consumers overall, who have called for more transparency of ingredients in household products,” added Ken Cook, President of EWG.

Consumers want to know what is in the products they purchase. From the foods they eat, to the items they use to clean their homes, to the products they put on their skin and use on their children. The only true way to judge the safety of a product is by reading the ingredient listing — which makes full disclosure hugely important.

Fragrance ingredients are notoriously hard to identify but there are many ways to disguise less-than-healthy ingredients on a product label. Most ingredients go by many different names, sometimes brands will list ingredients in all caps or otherwise make them difficult to read, or make the ingredient listings themselves difficult to find. No clear and easily accessible ingredient listing is cause for concern.

Now for the big question … does the new transparency initiative mean P&G products will be nontoxic or made without synthetic fragrance? No. Not yet, anyway.

But doing away with the trade secret loophole that many brands use to protect their fragrance blends (and hide nasty ingredients) is an improvement.

If you are curious as to which ingredients make the cut, check this list of fragrance ingredients currently used by P&G, as well as the ones they do not use.

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5 Flower Beauty Ingredients You Need in Your Summer Skin Care

Liz Thompson — Sat, 27 May 2017 07:00:41 +0000

iStock/pekic

Farmers market. Window box. Vertical garden. However your flowers grow, there’s one more way to get in on seasonal blooms. Find out which flower ingredients for skin and hair are ripe for the picking this summer.

Flowers signal summer’s arrival. They are not only beautiful and aromatic, but hold powerful beauty benefits, too.

You know how eating seasonally is a healthy diet practice? Same goes for beauty. The flowers of the season are perfect for solving skin and hair issues. Flower ingredients come in the form of oils, extracts, and hydrosols.

Flowers have been used in Ayurveda for centuries for their medicinal and aromatherapeutic properties, as well as for beauty. They are also used in DIY beauty recipes, like this oatmeal geranium mask for dry and sensitive skin.

5 Flower Ingredients You Need for Summer Skin and Hair

1. Hibiscus: This is one of the most common flowers used in beauty. Rich in antioxidants, rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, astringent, keeps skin and hair hydrated, high in alphahydroxy acids to gently exfoliate the skin, tones, firms, balances oil production, high in vitamin C, decreases hair loss, gentle enough for those with sensitive hair and scalp. Try St. Tropica Organic Coconut Oil Hair Mask for gorgeously glossy hair or Brown & Coconut Hibiscus Cleansing Grains for smooth, radiant skin.

2. Geranium: The sweet-smelling oil is an effective solution for acne-prone skin. Anti-inflammatory and pore clearing qualities leave skin clear and calm. It is also used to plump and firm the skin, and is gentle enough for use on all skin types. Skin Owl Beauty Drops balance and decongest the complexion, while diminishing signs of aging.

3. Iris: This familiar bloom may not be seen as often in beauty products as the other flower ingredients noted here, but it definitely deserves a place on the list. Iris extract holds potent anti-aging benefits that make skin look firm, supple, and youthful. Weleda Hydrating Facial Lotion and Kypris Heliotropic: Pot of Shade both contain this floral extract.

4. Rose: No list of floral beauty ingredients would be complete without the lovely rose. This beauty lends more to cosmetics than its intoxicating aroma. Rose is hydrating, soothing, and rejuvenating. Perfect for those dealing with dry skin or redness, this ingredient also has anti-aging properties. Rose is also great for hair, strengthening and moisturizing your strands. Try Josh Rosebrook Balancing Shampoo for hair and Mun Anarose Hydrating Rose Toner for skin.

5. Peony: These luxurious blooms are a summertime favorite for both their beauty and fragrance. Peonies also contain skin beautifying properties. High in antioxidants, peony extract helps to diminish signs of aging, calm inflammation, and increase glow. La Bella Figura Jardin de Fleurs Skin Revitalizer with white peony extract hydrates, firms, and revitalizes the complexion. It is a veritable bouquet of skincare goodness that also includes jasmine, rose, hibiscus, and honeysuckle.

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13 Floral Essential Oils to Make You Feel So, So Good

Liz Thompson — Tue, 16 May 2017 08:00:31 +0000

iStock/Sjale

Stressed? Low energy? Can’t sleep? There’s an essential oil for that.

If you aren’t using aromatherapy as part of your healthy lifestyle, there’s no better time to start than right now. And what could be better for the season than floral essential oils?

Essential oils may have been thought of as hippy potions in the past, but we are seeing a definite boom in popularity for these natural ingredients. Before you run to the health food store to stock up or attend an aromatherapy party, there are a few things to know about these potent oils.

Essential oils (or EOs) are volatile compounds extracted from plants. Each oil carries the distinct characteristics of the plant from which it was obtained. EOs have powerful aromatherapeutic benefits, but they are super concentrated and highly potent, and care should be taken when using the oils. In order to avoid issues like irritation, burns, and hormonal disturbance, learn how to properly handle EOs.

Before we go further into the benefits of floral essential oils, you may be wondering … what is aromatherapy and does it really work?

In aromatherapy, essential oils are used to treat physical and psychological symptoms, and bring about a state of balance. Floral EOs offer the bouquet of delicate fragrance from your favorite blooms. But these beauties are certainly no shrinking violets. They come with a host of powerful feel good benefits.

Danièle Ryman, one of the world’s leading aromatherapists, even uses essential oils to alleviate hormonal disruption due to menopause. Ryman says essential oils “can influence a sluggish system and assist during hard times”, including florals like chamomile, geranium, and rose.

13 Floral Essential Oils for Aromatherapy

Always begin with high quality essential oils, like Source Vital or Aura Cacia. You can make your own reed diffuser, use in a home diffuser or car diffuser, or make a sachet. Each essential oil listed below can be used on its own or blended with other EOs to create your own blend.

1. Bergamot: A spicy, citrus floral, this blossoming essential oil improves feelings of depression and anxiety, gives a calming feel to the mind, and is said to boost the immune system and inspire a feeling of confidence. Blends well with cypress, orange, and vetiver.

2. Blue Tansy: This freshly scented essential oil has an almost apple-like fragrance and a rich blue hue. It is calming and soothing, eases tension, settles the nerves, and creates a relaxed feeling. Blends well with bergamot, geranium, and lemon.

3. Chamomile: You know this flower as the super calming tea, but it is also good for soothing the mind, toning down irritability, reducing discomfort, and easing an upset stomach. The sweetly scented oil blends well with lavender, lemon, and ylang ylang.

4. Geranium: With a scent similar to rose, this essential oil is soothing and uplifting. Good for relieving stress and anxiety, it diminishes feelings of hormonal imbalance. Blends well with basil, clary sage, and orange.

5. Helichrysum: Also known as Immortelle, this essential oil has a rich, sweet fragrance. It is used to banish fatigue, soothe stress, and balance emotions. Helichrysum is also a pain reliever and blends well with bergamot, chamomile, and lavender.

6. Jasmine: The warm, intoxicating, and exotic scent is reason enough to use jasmine essential oil, but it is also used as an aphrodisiac, antidepressant, and to instill an optimistic outlook, boost energy, and inspire confidence. Blends well with bergamot, rose, and citrus oils.

7. Lavender: A fresh floral, this well-loved essential oil is commonly used to promote a sense of balance and calm. Good for inducing sleep, relieving tension, easing depression, calming nerves, and diminishing the symptoms of headaches and migraines, lavender is an aromatherapy kit staple. Blends well with cedarwood, geranium, and nutmeg.

8. Lotus: The exotic lotus has a soft, earthy floral scent. This essential oil is soothing, calming, stimulates a poor appetite, alleviates anger, and brings about a sense of clarity and peace. Blends well with spicy scents, like cinnamon and sandalwood.

9. Neroli: A sweet floral, neroli provides a relaxing sensation, and is used to relieve depression and anxiety. May also help to calm an upset stomach associated with nervousness. Blends well with jasmine, lavender, and rosemary.

10. Rhododendron: With a fresh, clean aroma, this essential oil is perfect for those who prefer a lighter scent. It offers an uplifting sensation and blends well with lavender, orange, and geranium.

11. Rose: A potent stress reducer, this familiar scent brings about a feeling of harmony, eases depression, quells anger, and helps in dealing with feelings of grief, fear, and nervousness. May also be used to boost self-esteem. Blends well with geranium and jasmine.

12. Yarrow: Fruity and herbaceous, this essential oil soothes, relaxes, and eases anxiety and restlessness. It helps to improve sleep quality and blends well with cedarwood, clary sage, and black pepper.

13. Ylang Ylang: A sweet, fruity floral, this essential oil is uplifting, anxiety quelling, and used as an aphrodisiac. Blends well with bergamot, citrus oils, and sandalwood.

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How to Get in on Magical Seaweed Skin Benefits (Plus Superfood Skincare Picks)

Liz Thompson — Mon, 08 May 2017 08:00:45 +0000

iStock/vernonwiley

Getting your greens takes on new meaning when we start talking seaweed skin benefits. You know your skin feels great after a day at the beach. Salt water and humidity have a way of doing that. Now for reaping the skin loving benefits of a plant from under the sea.

Seaweed is making a real name for itself. Pretty much any healthy living guru will tell you it is a nutrient-rich addition to your diet. As with most healthy ingredients, skin loves the superfood, too.

Technically a type of algae, there are three main colors of seaweed — green, red, and brown. Seaweed powders and extracts are added to skincare products, like cleansers, toners, masks, serums, and moisturizers.

One brand that is completely behind seaweed skin benefits and uses them in product formulations is OSEA. Take a look at EcoSalon’s interview with OSEA founder, Jenefer Palmer, to find out why she made seaweed the star of her natural skincare line.

It seems seaweed is making a splash in other areas of personal care, as well. Market research shows the ingredient showed up (usually in the form of brown or red seaweed) in approximately two percent of new body care products launched from January 2011 to October 2015.

7 Seaweed Skin Benefits

1. Detoxifying: Seaweed has many jobs in the ocean and one is to remove pollutants, like heavy metals, from the water. It works similarly on skin, drawing out impurities and detoxing the skin. If you’ve been under stress, ill, or in need of a skin pick-me-up, this potent ingredient is the answer.

2. Anti-Aging: Seaweed is packed with micronutrients and antioxidants, helping to fight free radical damage which can lead to premature aging. Incorporate this healthy ingredient into your skin routine to support youthful skin.

3. Firm & Tighten: Often found in anti-aging serums and moisturizers, seaweed gives skin a firmer appearance and natural radiance. It also has a slight tightening effect, making pores look more refined.

4. Moisturizing: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, seaweed moisturizes, softens, and balances oil production. A highly effective treatment for skin that is dehydrated or rough, it is gentle enough for most skin types.

5. Soothing: Super calming to skin, seaweed is well suited for sensitive skin types and rosacea. Use to reduce redness and irritation.

6. Brightening: Seaweed has natural lightening abilities, diminishing the look of dark spots and evening out skin tone. A summertime must-have.

7. Purifying: Naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, seaweed is an effective solution for treating acne-prone skin. The natural soothing effect also helps to tone down the look of breakouts.

Seaweed Skincare Products for Every Skin Type

Amala Beauty Brightening Corrective Concentrate is a youth-enhancing serum includes algae to boost cell turnover, eliminate dullness, and lessen the look of dark spots.

Dr. Alkaitis Soothing Gel contains red seaweed to soothe, hydrate, and provide antibacterial benefits. Works well on sensitive and acne-prone skin types.

A super calming and revitalizing skin treatment, Source Vital Sea Tonic may be used as a purifying toner, refreshing facial mist, to set makeup, or in combination with a powder mask.

Ready for a superfood skin treat? Lilfox Chlorophyll + Tourmaline Brightening Mask is packed with sea clay, seaweed, green tea, and tourmaline crystals to improve circulation and fight free radicals.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

The post How to Get in on Magical Seaweed Skin Benefits (Plus Superfood Skincare Picks) appeared first on EcoSalon.

Is Your Face Too Clean? Bacteria is the Key to Healthy Skin (Really)

Liz Thompson — Sat, 06 May 2017 07:00:36 +0000

iStock/Andry5

We are currently experiencing a multi-step skincare craze. There are undeniable benefits to multi-stepping and skincare cocktailing. Korean beauty is testament to that. But it’s important to note that bacteria isn’t always a bad thing when it comes to healthy skin.

While facial cleansing was once considered a suds and forget about it skincare step, facial cleansers are seeing a definite surge in popularity. We’ve been taught that bacteria causes clogged pores and breakouts, and work to eradicate it from our complexion. So we double-cleanse, tone, mist, and scrub our faces into a state of uber-cleanliness. Are we overdoing it?

Those well-advertised skincare systems lead people looking to eradicate acne to believe cleaner is better. Sure, keeping skin free from dirt and debris is essential to healthy skin, but a twice daily cleanse, slough, and tone may be causing more damage (and acne flare-ups) than good.

The Human Microbiome Project, a U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) initiative that began in 2007, has discovered some interesting facts having to do with how our microbial makeup affects the skin. Research shows that while certain types of bacteria appear to cause acne, other types may actually keep skin healthy.

You know how taking a course of antibiotics can send your digestive system into a state of upheaval? This is because the medication, which is designed to remove the bacteria that is causing your illness, also removes the “good bacteria” that is there to keep your system balanced and operating smoothly. Now scientists believe an imbalanced skin microbiome can lead to skin issues, like dryness, irritation, redness, and acne.

How Clean Should Your Skin Be?

So, what is the perfect amount of skin bacteria? And how do you get it? As we’ve said, keeping the complexion clean is essential to healthy skin. Contrary to popular belief, over-cleansing by means of too many skincare products, abrasive scrubs and pads, and skincare antibiotic use may do more harm than good. Follow these tips to balanced skin cleansing.

Use nontoxic skincare: Harsh surfactants, artificial fragrance, and synthetic preservatives strip the skin of necessary oils and cause imbalance. Use nontoxic skincare that is free from harmful cosmetic ingredients to maintain healthy skin.

Cleanse when necessary: Here’s the deal. You really only need to cleanse your face when it is actually dirty or to remove makeup. Use a facial wash if you have especially oily skin, just worked out, or otherwise got dirty, or need to cleanse before bed. You may be fine with a simple splash of warm water in the morning. And exfoliating should be done no more than one to two times weekly to avoid irritation, inflammation, and breakouts.

Use a cleanser suited to your skin type: Always take the gentlest approach to skincare. If you need a foaming face wash, fine. Those with sensitive or dry skin may do better with a milk or cream cleanser. And the best way to remove makeup from skin is with an oil or balm cleanser.

Utilize probiotic skincare: Probiotics are helpful in balancing gut flora and are good for the skin, too. Use a plain yogurt facial mask to exfoliate, brighten, and calm the skin. Probiotic skincare products are also available. Check out Aurelia Skincare made with probiotic ingredients.

Bacteria Balancing Face Cleansers

For Normal/Combination

One Love Organics Easy Does It Cleanser is a gentle cleanser that removes makeup and leaves skin feeling fresh and clean without stripping.

For Oily/Acne Prone

Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser gently exfoliates while it cleanses and protects skin’s natural balance.

For Dry/Mature

Shiva Rose Pearl Milk Cleanser rehydrates skin with natural oils as it cleanses, leaving the complexion plumped and glowing.

For Sensitive Skin

MV Skincare Gentle Cream Cleanser leaves skin soft, smooth, and clean with no irritation, redness, or inflammation.

Probiotic

Kypris Cleanser Concentrate dissolves dirt, makeup, and debris and leaves skin clean, hydrated, and balanced.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

The post Is Your Face Too Clean? Bacteria is the Key to Healthy Skin (Really) appeared first on EcoSalon.

Do Collagen Supplements Really Make Skin Look Better?

Liz Thompson — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 08:00:52 +0000

iStock/peopleimages

Any time an ingredient is said to make skin look younger, it’s going to get attention. Such is the case with collagen supplements.

Spiking your fresh juice or smoothie with collagen powder or drinking a cup of bone broth are the latest list-toppers on keeping skin healthy and youthful. But do they really work?

The reported benefits of consuming collagen seem too good to pass up. Before you go spending a decent chunk of your hard-earned cash on a jar of the stuff, let’s take a look at how collagen works in the body and if collagen supplements provide those same benefits.

What is Collagen, Anyway?

Collagen is the primary structural protein in our bodies, found in skin, bones, and connective tissue. Its job is to hold the body together, providing strength and structure. Around the age of 40, the body begins to produce less collagen, and existing collagen breaks down due to things like sun damage and natural aging. This collagen loss and breakdown causes sagging and wrinkling of the skin.

Collagen can be injected into areas of the face to give a fuller, smoother look. If going under the needle in the name of wrinkle reduction sounds extreme, there are easier ways to get ahold of collagen.

To get collagen back into your body, it comes from animal sources. It’s essentially Jell-O (gelatin) without all the neon colors and flavors. It’s typically sourced from animal bones, hooves, and other meat industry byproducts. So, vegans, this is not for you. Fortunately, for vegans, certain natural ingredients in skincare support collagen, like rosehip oil and avocado oils. Also, making sure you eat enough vitamin C daily also helps support your body’s natural collagen production.

Drinkable Sources of Collagen

Drinking collagen is a big deal right now. Certain experts feel that collagen supplementation can give back some of what’s lost and make skin look younger. And science may back this up. A 2014 study on a hydrolyzed collagen peptide (Verisol) showed a 20% reduction in eye wrinkles and a 65% increase in collagen production.

Pretty impressive. But you are probably more interested in those readily available collagen supplement powders easily found in online wellness shops and your local health food store. These supplements are easy to use. Simply add to your daily smoothie, coffee, or tea.

I tried a collagen peptide powder from Whole Foods called Vital Proteins. First off, this stuff isn’t cheap. A large jar (and large seemed to be the only size available) is right around $40. As advertised, the powder has absolutely zero taste and no grit. I whipped up a latte with espresso, ghee, milk, and the collagen.

There is another popular way to drink collagen. Bone broth. Yep, just like it sounds. Broth made from bones. People use beef, chicken, and even fish bones to create this stuff. Fish and oysters are two foods that support collagen production. Keep that in mind for your next visit to the shore.

I bought a pre-made organic bone broth to diminish the ick factor a bit. Is it just me, or is there something super gross about boiling bones? In my experience, drinking the broth wasn’t much better than the thought of making it. If you go the bone broth route, my advice is to chug it down while it’s hot because it doesn’t get better as it cools. Or use it in your cooking and avoid the whole cup o’ broth scene entirely.

Do Collagen Supplements Actually Work?

Ok, now for the results. I will admit, I didn’t see the skin firming action I’d hoped for. Maybe I need to use the supplement longer to reduce wrinkles and give skin back some springiness, but for now I have noticed that my skin feels a bit less dry. Not a bad thing and maybe the first step to a collagen-boosted face.

If you feel like taking the collagen plunge, there is little risk in giving it a try. Although, people with sensitive digestive systems may experience discomfort. It’s always best to discuss with your primary care physician before adding any dietary supplements to your regimen.

3 Collagen Boosting Beauty Products

1. The Beauty Chef Collagen Inner Beauty Boost

A beauty-full ingredient rich supplement with probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamin-rich fruits. Add to any drink you prefer.

2. Moon Juice Beauty Dust

Not an actual collagen supplement, but the powerful ingredients in this powder help to support collagen production. I do see visible results on my skin with Beauty Dust, and they are almost instant. Love it!

3. Linne Botanicals Repair Face Oil

A powerful rosehip oil blend high in antioxidants to moisturize and protect the skin, and boost collagen production. Rosehip oil is also great for reducing the appearance of dark spots and evening out skin tone. This beauty includes sea buckthorn oil for a happy glow.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

The post Do Collagen Supplements Really Make Skin Look Better? appeared first on EcoSalon.