When it comes to natural skincare knowledge, not many will have more experience than Cecilia Wong, facialist and founder of Cecilia Wong Skincare, who described the defining moment of her career path as an esthetician when she was just fourteen.

“I battled acne, pigmentation and excessive oiliness growing up. My mother always told me that if I wanted to have better skin, I needed to eat a lot of fruit and vegetables, in addition to drinking the herbal tonics and soups that she made. One day, while I was preparing dessert,” which only consisted of fruits, since, as Wong mentioned, she was not allowed any sweets, “something clicked. I made a face mask out of blueberries and papaya and applied it on my skin. I did that for a week and saw a huge difference in my skin right away. Because of this experience, I knew that I wanted to help others with their problematic skin.”

Fast forward to present day, and you’ll find Wong managing her popular line of signature skincare products and a thriving skin care clinic in New York City, where she regularly helps clients transform their skin from the inside-out. By successfully uniting her expertise in Traditional Chinese Medicine with natural products and approaches for skincare, like the gua sha facial massage, Wong has essentially created a trifecta of skin nourishing goodness.   

“A few months after I started my business, I was hearing complaints from my clients that they weren’t seeing results from the products they were using, and they asked me if I could create something for them,” said Wong. “I was reminded of when I was younger and used fruits to create face masks, so I decided to create a line that would consist of herbs, fruits and plants with the core ingredient being black currant.”

In addition to her line of all-natural, vegan, made in the USA products, Wong also relies heavily on her background in Traditional Chinese Medicine when suggesting herbs to her clients. There are three, in particular, that Wong highly recommends. Sage, licorice root, and parsley are the trio she deems responsible for unlocking that oh-so-covetable glow. Here’s what she says each of these herbs do and how she recommends using them:

Sage: “The antioxidants in this herb help to fight off free radicals and ease away wrinkles and fine lines. It’s great for those with acne prone skin due to its ability to clear blemishes and kill bacteria. Sage is very cleansing! You can use it in smudging, cook it in soups and even make tea with it. This herb can be used on skin in creams or serums.”

Licorice Root: “This herb helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and brighten the skin. The powerful antioxidants in licorice root act as a barrier and protect skin from environmental stressors. Licorice root is mainly used in teas or as a supplement in capsule form. Can also be used topically in creams.”

Parsley: “This herb is a great source of Vitamin C and helps to promote oxygenation in skin. It repairs and promotes collagen production as well as helping to clear up blemishes due to its antibacterial properties. Parsley can be used in cooking, herbal tonics and teas. I also love using them in my baths—it’s both therapeutic and medicinal! Great topically in creams or serums.”

Of course, it’s important to proceed at your own risk. Wong cautioned, “You should always consult a doctor or an herbalist before incorporating any herbs into your diet. This is to avoid interactions with your existing medications, and so you are taking the proper amount. They can have side effects if taken incorrectly.”

Patience is also key when using these herbs. Wong said that there’s no actual set time to see results, but depending on the reasons for using the trio, it may take anywhere from two to three months to see improvement. As always, individual results may vary. Furthermore, she also highly emphasizes the age old notion that healthy skin starts from the inside, and that diet and nutrition play a key role in how good your skin looks, reminding us that “eating nutritious foods will give skin the nutrients and vitamins it needs to stay plump, youthful and healthy.”

When asked about some other skincare game-changers, Wong said, “I am a huge fan of gua sha facial massages, which is amazing for any age! It helps to depuff the whole face, breaks down tissue blockages and releases toxins. It’s great for toning and sculpting the skin as well as stimulating various acupressure points.” In fact, Wong offers a quartz gua sha tool so you can practice the art of facial massage at home–something she tells her clients to do between appointments as their “homework”.

Being proactive and incorporating regular maintenance is the cornerstone for improving and maintaining healthy skin. That’s why Wong recommends visiting a licensed esthetician at least once per month since professional facials “can help achieve a better, deeper cleanse than the one you do at home.” She also noted their ability to “rid the skin of buildup, toxins and dirt, while eliminating bacteria that could be lingering on the skin,” not to mention the effects they can have on premature aging, improved circulation, greater collagen production, and facilitating plumper, healthier, more radiant skin.

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We have all counted on 100% Pure over the years to continue creating fabulous skin care and makeup items. Now the brand has crafted brand new skin care lines targeted to specific skin concerns, like Organic Cucumber Juice for dry, dull skin. Find out how these products do more than hydrate.

As if the brightly hued cosmetics and fruity scented skin products weren’t keeping us happy enough, 100% Pure recently launched four new skin care lines. I was lucky enough to test the Organic Cucumber products, and since I have dry skin, couldn’t wait to give them a go.

As the name implies, the products are made with cucumber juice. This ingredient is great for calming and cooling the skin, and providing hydration while reducing inflammation. The line also includes antioxidants, skin plumping extracts, and healthy plant oils to quench thirsty skin.

Fall has been around for a couple of seconds and my skin is already showing signs of dryness. Those of you with dry skin know that redness and irritation seem to come along for the ride. Cucumber juice is gentle and soothing–great for skin that is not so happy. And, I was pleasantly surprised by the way these products reduced any redness, left my skin feeling calm and supported, and gave it a nice moisture boost.

What I didn’t count on is it working on acne. My teenage daughter battles breakouts but also has skin that is not overly oily and too delicate for harsh ingredients usually used to create acne control products. Treating this type of skin is a slippery slope between keeping blemishes at bay and ending up with dry, inflamed skin.

Well, this line seems suited to this particular skin type. My daughter uses the Cleansing Foam daily (it has a light foam and super fresh scent!) and the Renewal Serum tones down redness while offering the hydration her skin needs.

If your skin seems to crave balance, 100% Pure Organic Cucumber Juice collection is a great place to start.

A Peek at 100% Pure Organic Cucumber Juice Skin Care

Cucumber juice may be the main ingredient in this new line, but there are other potent ingredients that deserve credit too. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and plumped. CoQ10 is used to improve skin’s firmness and helps to protect against moisture loss. And alpha-lipoic acid offers antioxidant protection to curtail further dehydration and protect the complexion.

Organic Cucumber Juice Cleansing Foam: A lightly foaming, super gentle daily cleanser that doesn’t strip skin or cause irritation. Perfect for delicate skin types in need of hydration.

Organic Cucumber Juice Emulsion Tonique: This is the toner your dry skin needs. A milky, almost-liquid formula that sinks into skin. So cooling and soothing.

Organic Cucumber Juice Renewal Serum: A gel serum that slides onto skin and sinks right in. Skin looks and feels supple and happy.

Organic Cucumber Juice Replenishing Eye Cream: This eye cream offers skin smoothing hydration without being greasy. A daily essential.

Organic Cucumber Juice Hydrating Moisturizer: This facial moisturizer seems ultra light going on, but lends rich hydration to skin. No greasy after feel, just smooth, soft skin.

More New Lines by 100% Pure

Organic Cucumber Juice is just one of the new 100% Pure Organic Skincare Lines. The natural brand has been busy coming up with three other new skin care lines too:

Organic Matcha Anti-aging is designed to strengthen skin’s natural ability to defend and repair itself. Made with antioxidants from matcha green tea, these products fight free radicals and repair damage. The line also uses organic seaweed extract to give skin a luminous look, CoQ10 to firm, and alpha-lipoid acid for an added antioxidant boost. Product line-up includes Cleansing Foam, Antioxidants Smoothing Scrub, Emulsion Tonique, Shielding Serum, and Moisturizer. Ideal for those experiencing signs of aging, dryness, or sun damage.

Organic Rose Water Sensitive Skin calms and controls upset skin. Nutrient and antioxidant rich ingredients are used to provide a protective effect for delicate skin types. Rose water, calendula, and comfrey leave skin feeling balanced and hydrated. The line includes Cleansing Foam, Calming Serum, Emulsion Tonique, and Nourishing Moisturizer. Perfect for those with irritable or inflamed skin.

Organic High Potency Reversal restores a youthful appearance to skin. Rosehip extract does wonders for softening lines and wrinkles, and brightening dark spots. Coffee brightens dull complexions and tightens skin. These products also include organic resveratrol, an antioxidant rich ingredient with powerful anti-aging benefits. This line is comprised of Cleansing Foam, Emulsion Tonique, Restore Serum, Repair Moisturizer, Repair Night Cream, and Repair Eye Cream. Does wonders for smoothing wrinkles, and restoring plumpness and elasticity to skin.

100% Pure uses certified organic ingredients whenever possible. All products are cruelty-free, and free from artificial colors, artificial fragrances, synthetic chemical preservatives, and other toxic ingredients.

EcoSalon readers save 10% on all new 100% Pure Organic Skincare Lines! Use code organic10 at checkout, good through November 4th, 2016.

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This post contains affiliate links that help keep EcoSalon’s lights on! We love working with brands that share our values and we hope you will love them too.  

The post Hydrate and Heal Your Skin with 100% Pure’s New Skin Care Line appeared first on EcoSalon.

Men. The lower maintenance gender. Well, maybe. Seems guys like their (or our) skincare, too.

Yes, guys have thicker skin than women. They also grow hair on their faces and tend to produce more oil than women, in general. This means their skincare needs are different than ours, but the key here: they still have needs.

You’ve probably heard of, or even know, guys who dip into their girl’s moisturizer or eye cream. Hey, even if thicker skin and extra oil keeps wrinkles at bay longer, wanting to prevent a line or two is commendable. And you gotta love a fella who takes care of his skin.

The big question is: do guys need their own skincare? Stuff that is formulated just for them, that works on their skin and smells all manly? Sure, they can go that direction, and there are lots of organic lines suited for men’s skin.

But there are also plenty of products that work for both women and men. Choosing products that are unisex means less money spent and more counter space. If you are up for it, here are the best items for sharing.

5 Organic Unisex Skincare Products

1. Cleanser. Men like their regimen to be fast and easy. Swipe and done. That’s why a toner type cleanser is perfect. Suti Peppermint Water Organic Facial Toner makes a great cleanser for your guy’s face and you can use it as a toner for subduing blemishes.

2. Moisturizer. Don’t be fooled by their laidback nature. Men like anti-aging products too. Dr. Alkaitis Day Crème is the perfect choice. It stimulates the skin’s oxygen supply, which promotes luminosity and a youthful glow, is lightly moisturizing, and smells herbal (read: not too girly).

3. Eye cream. Yep, guys use the stuff too. A gel works well for men because it offers the line reducing benefits and light hydration they are going for, without being greasy. For us girls, it is ideal under makeup. Try aloe-based Dr. Alkaitis Eye Crème.

4. Body wash. No need to double up on this bath staple. Indie Lee Lemongrass Citrus Body Wash is a unisex option that is mutually pleasing. The upbeat scent gets you going and astringent properties help keep body acne in check. Skin is clean and fresh.

5. Body moisturizer. My husband once told me that the perfect body moisturizer would be one he could put on quickly, right after showering, while still wet. I knew immediately, men want a body oil. It has to be easy to use, so in a spray. It has to be light. And it has to be non-floral or fruity. Okay, Vitruvi MOVE Face & Body Mist it is. Peppermint, lime, and black pepper scent is fitting for both men and women, and it can be used on the face as well.

*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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It’s that time of year. Time to set aside the thick winter moisturizers, heavy balms, and other cold weather supplies. Find out how to put together your spring beauty kit with natural beauty brands.

Spring is welcome, big time. We can hardly wait to break out the shorts, sandals, and cute dresses. Then we take one look at our skin and hair, and wonder if winter could stick around longer.

No problem. We have just what it takes to cure your winter beauty blues and get things freshened up just in time for warmer weather. These all-natural beauty brands will help you assemble a spring beauty kit with everything you need to feel great in your own skin.

How to Put Together a Spring Beauty Kit With Natural Brands

Exfoliation is important year round, but not just for smoothing skin. Did you know that sloughing reveals a fresher looking complexion and makes it easier for healthy ingredients to absorb into skin? AMG Naturally Rosehip Seed Exfoliator removes dry, dead skin cells and offers a dose of hydration.

Need some spring in your step, or at least in your skin? Devera Naturals Multi-Vitamin Serum infuses skin with radiance and erases signs of fatigue. Yes, please!

Oil can seem to ramp up once weather becomes warmer. Switch to a lighter, mattifying moisturizer, like Chella Day Cream Mattifying Hydrator SPF 25.  Designed for oily skin, this lightweight hydrator offers sun protection too.

And then there are those of us whose skin requires plenty of moisturization year round. Why not block SPF damage at the same time? Chella Day Cream Replenishing Hydrator SPF 25 is super gentle and built for dry skin.

Get your complexion ready for those spring social events with a detoxifying facial mask. Spirulina, grapeseed oil, and aloe vera in Perfect Body Harmony Muddy Face – Earth & Sea (Hydrated Facial Clay) provide a gentle deep clean, while balancing oils and supporting skin.

So your not feeling the glow just yet. Fake it with a touch of highlighter, perfectly applied with Vert Beauty VERT Cheek Contour Brush. Practically better than the real thing.

Love coffee? Add some to your beauty routine with JAVA Skincare Face and Décolletage Serum. This freshly scented product moisturizes, and soften lines and wrinkles. Ready your bod for those strapless springtime dresses.

If there is one requirement for every spring beauty kit, it has to be sunscreen. And not that chemical-laden, synthetic-loaded stuff. Try Nurture My Body Organic Sunscreen – SPF 32 (Fragrance Free). We are talking safe mineral sunscreen, to provide the best UV protection, and all natural ingredients.

We look forward to spring for sooooo long. Not so much the frizzy hair that comes with those humid days. Combat the frizz and protect hair from the heat with Leven Rose 100% Pure Kukui Nut Oil. Also perfect for use on skin and lips.

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The post How to Assemble Your Spring Beauty Kit with Natural Brands appeared first on EcoSalon.

You are supposed to have dry skin in winter, right? If you are experiencing extra oily skin in the dry season, it may be due to your beauty regimen. Let’s see what we can do about that.

Those with oily skin are usually on the lookout to manage oil production and ward off breakouts. Products that help with this can be overly drying, as can different skin care techniques that target oily skin.

Isn’t drying supposed to be a good thing where oily skin is concerned? Not exactly. Skin that is too dry actually produces even more oil in an attempt to compensate for moisture loss. This is the most common reason people see excess oil.

6 Possible Reasons for Extra Oily Skin in Winter

1. Using drying products. As I said above, skin care products that are meant to be drying can cause skin to produce excess oil. The key is to balance oil production, not strip the skin of necessary oils. Steer clear of the harsh acne treatments and drying lotions for now, and see if skin comes back into balance.

2. Over cleansing. It is not uncommon for those dealing with oily skin to over cleanse. If you are seeing breakouts, redness, irritation, or flakiness, you are likely over cleansing. The remedy? Use a more gentle cleanser when skin isn’t actually dirty, say in the morning, or skip the cleanser and use a swipe of hydrating toner instead.

3. Over exfoliation. Another common blunder, over-exfoliating can cause skin to become too dry and oil production to ramp up. Strive for once to twice weekly exfoliation with a gentle product. Fruit acids are effective and non-abrasive.

4. Going with the flow. Just because a thick cream or oil cleanser works for your coworker or roommate, doesn’t mean it is right for you. If you truly have an oily skin type, it may be best to stick with a gentle foaming cleanser and lighter moisturizer even in winter months.

5. Too many tools. Those brushes and mitts that make skin look great in summer months can be too harsh for more delicate wintertime skin. Skip these for now and give your skin a break.

6. Hitting the tanning beds. Aside from the obvious health concerns, tanning dries the skin, causing it to become more oily in the long run. Looking for a bit of color through winter? Opt for a healthy sunless tanner instead.

Perfect Products for Oily Winter Skin

One Love Organics Easy Does It Cleanser

Kahina Giving Beauty Antioxidant Mask

Josh Rosebrook Nutrient Day Cream with SPF 30

True Natural Perfect Tan Face – Self Tanner & Moisturizer 2-in-1

*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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The post 6 Possible Reasons Why You’ve Got Extra Oily Skin appeared first on EcoSalon.

You know those cans of Evian spray you pass at department store beauty counters? Ever feel they are elitist? Or just downright unnecessary? Thought so. Should you be using mineral water spray on your winter skin? Here’s the deal.

Yes, those pristine looking cans evoke a diamond-laden European woman basking in the French Riviera sun. But the benefits of facial water sprays go far beyond cooling the skin whilst sunbathing.

Mineral water spray does everything from set makeup, to give you the best facial cleansing of your life. Another perk of this beauty pick-me-up – it’s one product that works on every single skin type. Hard to go wrong.

So what, exactly, is mineral water spray? As the name implies, these cans of water are sourced from natural thermal or mineral springs. Of course, the ones with no added junky ingredients are healthiest for skin. So, green gals, read your labels prior to purchase.

Before we get started on how to use facial water mists, let’s talk about how not to use them. You know how it is a thing to pack a can of Evian in your carry on for mid-flight spritzing? Great idea, if (and only if) you are also supplying skin with some true moisture in the form of healthy oils. No moisturizing ingredients and the water will suck the life right out of your skin once it dries, so always follow up with moisturizer.

There are other benefits to mineral water sprays, too. French women have been known to use these cans of spray water to remove cleanser from skin, instead of using tap water. Sounds pretty chichi, but tap water can contain heavy metals and chlorine, which can dry out skin. Consider your cleansing game officially chic.

Ever wonder how to set your makeup? Wonder what it even means to set your makeup? You know that powdery, almost geisha look skin can have after you’ve applied skincare, foundation, and powder. A light spray of facial water (think mist, not soak) takes the edge off of the powdery finish and helps makeup to stay put.

If you like a sheer layer of foundation, facial water mists come in handy here too. Mist your sponge or beauty blender prior to applying your makeup. Foundation goes on smooth and fluid.

Facial water mist is also good for ramping up the intensity of powder makeup. Use it to turn your favorite smoky shadow into intense eyeliner.

Not just for face, mineral water spray gives hair a boost too. If your coif falls flat midday, reactivate your styling product with a spritz of water and give strands a scrunch.

Ok, now that you know how to use mineral water spray, let’s take a look at which you should get your hands on.

Just Water

Avène Thermal Spring Water

La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water

Evian Mineral Water Spray

Water + Hydrating Ingredients

Kahina Giving Beauty Toning Mist

Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator

YULI Metamorphic Elixir

*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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The post Mineral Water Spray: How You Should (and Shouldn’t) Use It appeared first on EcoSalon.

You’ve heard by now that face oils benefit all skin types, right? If you are still having trouble jumping on the skin oils band wagon, it’s time to take a look at one of your favorite food groups. Yep, fruit oils are a beauty bounty.

Those of us with dry skin have been neck deep in facial oils for some time now. But if the idea of applying oil to your not-at-all-dry skin still seems like a complete mistake, you are going to love this news. Fruit oils offer something for every skin type.

Oil extracted from seasonal and exotic fruits holds amazing beauty benefits. They have the ability to balance oils, moisturize, fire up a healthy glow, prevent premature aging, and ease inflammation. See, something for everyone.

The key in using fruit oils effectively is choosing the right ones for your skin type. Let’s take a look at the best fruit oils for skin and which ones are about to become your new jam.

Fruit Oils for Acne/Oily Skin

Passionfruit oil is anti-inflammatory, fights redness and irritation, and prevents blemishes. Watermelon seed oil is amazingly non-greasy while hydrating skin, super gentle, detoxifying, and calms irritation and breakouts. Schisandra fruit oil rids skin of impurities, protects against UVB damage, and brings a glow to skin.

Osmia Organics Facial Calibration Serum contains schisandra fruit oil and helps to balance oil production. Mix with your daily moisturizer for acne fighting benefits. Even though my skin is not oily, this stuff gave it an other-worldly radiance. Perfect for daytime use.

Organic Bath Co. Enhance Face Oil is chock full of every fruit oil you’d ever want to use. This beautiful combo heals while preventing breakouts, is oh so smooth, and smells divine. Love!

Fruit Oils for Dry/Mature Skin

Cranberry seed oil hydrates and helps skin to hold in moisture, and is high in omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids. Blackberry seed oil is rich in vitamin C, brightens, boosts elasticity, and gives a glow to skin. Apricot kernel oil is rich in fatty acids, contains vitamins A, C, and E, antioxidants, and feels light on skin. Acai berry oil is a super anti-ager, protects against UV and free radical damage, and reduces inflammation.

Kypris Beauty Elixir I – 1,000 Roses contains cranberry seed oil and is said to deliver rose petal soft skin.

The main ingredient in Odacite Acai Rose Serum Concentrate is acai fruit oil. A great way to get some anti-aging power to skin.

Hana Organics Rouge Lip + Cheek Tint is a plum-hued, apricot oil infused pot of dreaminess. What looks like imperceptible color on fingertips, brings face alive. There is a time and place for intense, creamy color, but this sheer, fall-flush enhancer is the bomb for the season.

Fruit Oils for Sensitive Skin

Red Raspberry softens, calms inflammation, and contains some incidental UV protection. Pomegranate seed oil soothes, hydrates, and doesn’t leave skin greasy or shiny.

Use Metta Skincare Face Balm, with pomegranate and red raspberry oils, to hydrate, soften, and calm upset skin.

Weleda Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil delivers soothing softness to skin, while protecting against environmental damage.

The pick of the crop for your skin type. Get in on the goodness of fruit oils.

*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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The post Why Fruit Oils Are Your Skin’s New Jam appeared first on EcoSalon.

How do some women do it? Able to pull off the fresh faced, youthful look when going makeup free, rather than death warmed over. If you feel more scary than dewy when going out bare, try these tips on how to look better without makeup.

Whether you never wear makeup, occasionally go without, or wouldn’t be caught dead bare-faced, there are ways to improve your naked face game.

There are times when you simply have to leave the house before putting on your face. Running late, under the weather, fleeing a fire…some of us are hard pressed to go anywhere without at least a little eyeliner or mascara.

Then there are the women who pull it off with ease and actually look younger without makeup. What is their secret to going makeup free and how can the rest of us get in on it?

Looking great makeup-free boils down to a few simple tricks, some regular maintenance, and a dash of self-assurance.

6 Tips on How to Look Better Without Makeup

1. Skin Love: A well cared for complexion looks healthy and glowing. It is also low maintenance, which means you can skip the foundation. Exfoliate regularly to get rid of dry, dead skin cells, which cause lack luster skin and clogged pores. Always cleanse with the appropriate product for your skin type and remove makeup before bed. And maybe the most important step in radiant skin? Making sure it is getting adequate moisture with your choice of facial oils, lotions, or creams.

2. Protect and Prevent: Yes, this falls under the prevention category but is so important. Regular use of nontoxic sunscreen protects skin from lines, wrinkles, and brown spots, making it easier to go makeup free. (Check our sunscreen guide for top picks for face.)

3. Wow Brows: On fleek brows may be a trend, but they also help to frame the face. Plus, well groomed brows lend polish to your look.

4. Lash Out: Want to make eyes pop in an instant? Curl your lashes, stand back, and admire those peepers. Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler is a makeup artist favorite.

5. Mane Game: Good looking hair means you can get by with almost anything (or nothing) for the rest of your look. Don’t have time to coif? A sleek pony, cute headband, or pretty scarf can easily dress things up.

6. Own It: If you are going out makeup free, smile and radiate confidence. Nothing looks better than a woman who feels good about herself.

Still not comfy with a completely bare face? Go the “no makeup” makeup route for a fresh faced look that only looks bare.

*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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We’ve all been there. A blemish crops up at the least convenient moment. Learn how to cover up a pimple fast and love your skin.

To cover or not to cover? That’s the big question. Sometimes trying to hide a blemish only seems to draw attention to the problem. But a big, red spot isn’t an appealing option either.

Relax. A few tips and the right products, that mark will be a distant memory and you can get to your date, meeting, or rendezvous completely spotless. (And looking better than these models and movie stars with too-thick makeup.)

How to Cover Up a Pimple in 4 Quick Steps

1.  First step, assess the damage. You’ve been told repeatedly Not. To. Pick. True, this often does more harm than good. But there are times when a zit just has to go. Whether you are dealing with a swollen red mark or damage due to popping, toning down swelling and redness is the first step in the prep. Hold an ice cube on the spot for several seconds to calm the area down.

2.  Before you go covering with makeup, think treatment. Applying a thick coating of concealer not only looks bad, it doesn’t help the spot to heal. Use a BB Cream with skin clearing ingredients. Vapour Organics Beauty Stratus Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector brightens skin, makes the spot less noticeable, and helps makeup to stay put. It also contains elemi oil to get rid of the pimple fast. If you use a BB Cream that does not contain pimple healing ingredients, use a touch of acne treatment (Amala Purifying Blemish Treatment works great) before applying the cream.

3.  Next up, the concealer. Oily skin does best with a less moisturizing product. Benecos Natural Concealer contains talc to absorb excess oil while it camouflages. Flaky spots are another story. Before applying Step 2, very gently massage the area with a soft washcloth to remove dry skin buildup. Then opt for a more emollient concealer, like RMS Beauty Un Cover-Up. When applying this step, a little dab will do you. The BB Cream has created a nice base so you don’t need as much product.

4.  Finally, a dusting of powder helps to further hide the pimple, decreases any shine, and refines the look of skin. RMS Beauty Un Powder is absolutely translucent, very light, and disappears into skin while creating a perfect finish. It is also the softest powder you will ever use. Dust lightly onto skin and swipe over the area with a clean makeup brush to remove excess.

This zit concealing process should last. If you see any shine or redness return, another dab of powder should do the trick. Now, remember to wash your face before going to bed.

*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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The post How to Cover Up a Pimple in 4 Quick Steps (and Get On With Your Life!) appeared first on EcoSalon.

Green tea has long held reign in the superfood group. Are you getting your daily dose? Try upping the ante with natural products that include green tea for skin.

You’ve been told of green tea’s benefits for better health. Did you know there are ways to get in on the advantages aside from just drinking the stuff?

The hype over green tea is far from over. Look at how its latest incarnation, matcha, has taken over.

We know that green tea in the diet is a major boon to health. It is related to health benefits for everything from the heart and brain, to preventing Alzheimer’s disease. But this powerhouse is also good for skin.

Green tea is packed with natural antioxidants which help to ward off free radicals, working to prevent disease and sun damage. Its anti-inflammatory effects help to reduce puffiness and tone down irritation. These hallmarks make green tea beneficial to all skin types, including sensitive and mature.

Ready to bring it on? You may be wondering how to get your skin some green tea, pronto. Yes, you can brew and cool the tea, and spritz directly onto skin as a calming toner. Or you can stock up on some quality green tea-infused skincare and makeup products. Let’s take a look.

6 Products Containing Green Tea for Skin

1. Let green tea’s soothing action take down puffiness and dark circles in Dr. Alkaitis Organic Eye Crème. Super potent but mild on delicate eye area.

2. Get the green goodness in Tata Harper Lip Treatments. Each contains a healthy dose of the tea extract to protect against skin aging and environmental damage.

3. Brush on the benefits daily with W3LL People Purist Mineral Blush. Also contains skin calming aloe and chamomile.

4. Cleanse with green tea? Absolutely! YULI Halcyon Cleanser is pH balanced and clears the skin gently.

5. Treat skin post-cleanse to YULI Modern Alchemist, a powerful anti-aging oil combo. Works like prescription retinol creams without the harsh side effects.

6. Exfoliate, perfect, and protect skin at once with Qet Botanicals Matcha Green Tea Body Polish. Made with olive and coconut oils to keep skin soft and hydrated.

*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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Image of green tea via Shutterstock

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