Skin Care
What Is Beta Glucan and How Does It Work in Skin Care Products?
Beta-what? Beta glucan is an increasingly popular ingredient in skin care products, touted for the many benefits it purportedly offers. But what is it, what does it do, and what's the point of including it in a skin care regimen? We'll answer all of those questions and more in this article. What Is Beta Glucan? Beta glucan is a form of fiber that’s most well known for its health-promoting properties in foods wheat, oats and barley. It's a soluble fiber, meaning that it forms a gel-like substance when added to water. Beta glucan can be found within the cell walls of certain plants, bacteria, yeasts, algae and fungi. It's also available in supplement form and is used for everything from blood sugar management to treating inflammation. Beta Glucan In The Context Of Skin Care In addition to its other applications, beta glucan is commonly used in the health and beauty industry as a key ingredient in skin care products. It's added to a range of creams, moisturizers and serums to help improve skin texture, fight signs of aging and promote wound healing. How Beta Glucan Works In Your Skin Care Products Beta glucan plays an important role in your skin care regimen - but what does it actually do? Read below to find out. Protects Skin Surface When applied topically, beta glucan forms a physical barrier on the surface of your skin. This barrier helps to lock in moisture, protect against environmental damage and keep irritants and bacteria out. Stimulates Collagen Production In addition to its barrier-forming properties, beta glucan is also known for its ability to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a protein that plays a major role in skin elasticity and firmness. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, leading to wrinkles, fine lines and a loss of skin tone. Applying products that contain beta glucan can help to boost collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother and more youthful-looking skin. Hydrates Skin Beta glucan is a natural humectant, meaning that it has the ability to attract and retain moisture. When applied to the skin, it helps to keep cells hydrated, resulting in a plumper, more youthful appearance. Fights Inflammation Beta glucan is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the skin, it can help to soothe irritation, redness and swelling. This makes it an ideal ingredient for those with conditions like eczema and rosacea. Accelerates Wound Healing In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, beta glucan has also been shown to promote wound healing. When applied to cuts, scrapes and other wounds, it helps to stimulate the production of new cells and blood vessels. This, in turn, helps the wound to heal more quickly and effectively. The Benefits Of Beta Glucan For Your Skin Now that you know how beta glucan works, let’s take a look at some of the specific benefits it can offer your skin. Smoothes Fine Lines And Wrinkles One of the most obvious signs of aging is the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These are caused by a breakdown in collagen, which leads to a loss of skin elasticity. Applying products that contain beta glucan can help to smooth fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and keeping skin cells hydrated. Fades Dark Spots Dark spots, also known as age spots, are a common sign of aging. They’re caused by a build-up of melanin in the skin and tend to appear on areas that have been exposed to the sun. Using products that contain beta glucan can help to fade dark spots by hydrating the skin and promoting the production of new cells. Reduces Puffiness And Under-Eye Circles Puffiness and under-eye circles are common concerns, especially as we get older. They’re often caused by dehydration, a build-up of toxins or an imbalance in hormones. Applying a beta glucan-rich cream or serum can help to reduce puffiness and under-eye circles by hydrating the skin and promoting lymphatic drainage. Heals Dry, Chapped Lips Dry, chapped lips are a common problem, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by a number of factors, including dehydration, windburn and sun damage. Using a lip balm or gloss that contains beta glucan can help to heal dry, chapped lips by hydrating and protecting them from further damage. Soothes Eczema And Psoriasis Eczema and psoriasis are two common skin conditions that can be extremely painful and frustrating. They’re both characterized by dry, irritated and inflamed skin. Applying products that contain beta glucan can help to soothe the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis by reducing inflammation and stimulating the production of new cells. Protects Against Sun Damage One of the best ways to prevent premature aging is to protect your skin from the sun. UV rays can cause a breakdown in collagen, leading to fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. Using products that contain beta glucan can help to create a barrier against the sun’s harmful rays, protecting your skin from damage. How To Use Beta Glucan For Your Skin Now that you know all about the benefits of beta glucan for your skin, let’s take a look at how to use it. There are a few different ways to incorporate beta glucan into your skincare routine. Use A Beta Glucan-Rich Moisturizer One of the easiest ways to use beta glucan is to apply it topically in the form of a cream or lotion. Look for products that contain a maximum concentration of 1% beta glucan, and apply them to clean, dry skin. Add A Beta Glucan Supplement To Your Diet You can also take beta glucan internally in the form of a supplement. This is a great option if you want to target specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles or sun damage. Taking 100 mg to 500 mg each day has been clinically studied as an effective means of supporting immune function. Use A Beta Glucan-Rich Facial Mask Another way to use beta glucan is to apply it in the form of a facial mask. This is a great option if you want to give your skin a boost of hydration and nutrients. The Bottom Line The benefits of beta glucan are innumerable, and there’s no doubt that this powerful compound can have a positive impact on your skin. If you’re looking for a way to improve your skin health, reduce wrinkles, or fade dark spots, consider incorporating beta glucan into your skincare routine. You’ll be glad you did!
Learn more
The Marvels of Amino Acids for Skin Rejuvenation
Amino acids are the building blocks of life; amino acid molecules form proteins essential for optimal skin health. Keratin, collagen, and elastin are the main proteins affecting the human skin. These proteins affect their texture and appearance. Amino acid creams, such as Hygieia, tackles the wrinkles and other signs of skin aging by targeting protein metabolism. The skin is constantly repairing most minor skin damage and even sun exposure. Wrinkles and sagging skin often result from poor diet, sun damage, stress, and overall poor health. With age, the body slows down, and the self-repair mechanism slows down. Amino acids added to the daily skincare routine can then work wonders. This article discusses in depth the impact of amino acids on skin quality and regeneration. Why Hygieia? Hygieia offers a varying concentration of amino acids for healthy skin. The beauty of this product is that it comes encapsulated in Liposomal. This is different from most of the amino acid creams available on the market, with better efficacy in drug absorption into the body. The amino acids are encapsulated in liposomes are more accessible for the body to absorb. This is because the active drug ingredients are encased in molecules made from the same material as skin cells. This then quickly penetrates the skin very efficiently. It easily works through the several layers of the skin, promoting healing from the inside and tackling the issue effectively. How does it work? According to scientific research, “The maintenance of skin structures by self-repair processes is essential to skin health. Thus, amino acids significantly impact the appearance of the skin. Amino acids are important nutrients required for (a) wound healing promotion and repair of the damaged skin; (b) acid-base balance and water retention in cellular layers, such as the stratum corneum; (c) protection against sunlight damage; (d) maintenance of an appropriate skin microbiome.” Let’s explore what this signified for the treatment of aging skin. Wound healing and repair When the body is under duress, there is an increased need for nutrients for healing. The two essential amino acids that play a significant role in such situations are arginine and glutamine. Collagen protein and other vitamins and minerals are also crucial for regeneration and cell repair. While a healthy body produces an adequate amount of arginine and glutamine, these processes can be compromised if the person is suffering from adverse health conditions or if the body is aging—Hygieia, which delivers the much-needed amino acids, can aid in healing and repair. Water retention and acid-base balance Sudden temperature drops (such as in between the air-conditioned rooms and the ambient temperature outside during the summers), prolonged exposure to the sunlight, and many other skin conditions decrease the amount of moisture the skin retains in the stratum corneum. This is the topmost thin membrane of the skin, which keeps the skin moist. NMF (Natural Moisturising Factor) is an essential component of healthy skin. The NMF is affected by amino acids, making them the most natural moisturizer. The NMF comprises glycine, alanine, and serine. When a product with a combination of these amino acids is applied, it penetrates the deepest skin layer and maintains the optimal moisture level for healthy skin. This is more so with liposomal, increasing the efficacy of the absorption. Sunlight and UV damage reversal Chronic exposure to sunlight significantly damages the skin. It is one of the main components of skin aging. Sun exposure and UV damage break down collagen at a rapid pace when compared to the normal process of aging. The process involves a high buildup of elastin in the second layer of the skin, the dermis; this leads to high enzyme production that breaks down collagen, leaving sun exposure scars. Over time, this process speeds up with prolonged exposure, resulting in wrinkled and sagging skin. Free radicals are another side effect of UV radiation. Free radicals may alter the body’s genetic components, often the leading cause of cancer; they also break down the collagen faster by producing high doses of enzymes, breaking down collagen. Using products such as Hygieia can help counter many of the negative effects of adverse skin damage due to prolonged sunlight exposure. Amino acids and skin microbiome The human skin has a host of bacteria and microorganisms that keep the skin healthy. One of the critical factors for tackling microbial disbalances is amino acids. Although, they also largely contribute to antimicrobial resistance, more commonly known as AMR. The antimicrobial peptide that uses amino acids to develop can also effectively fight resistance. Therefore, amino acids not only contribute to the damage but also reverses the damage caused for the imbalanced microbial state. It is, therefore, critical for a healthy balance. Why use Hygieia? Amino acids answer many of the more commonly tackled skin problems. It reverses most of the skin’s premature signs of aging. It maintains optimal balance by retaining the perfect moisture balance, reversing UV and sunlight damage, and maintaining the ideal pH balance for the skin. Lastly, this ensures a healthy skin microbiome, essential for a healthy glow. All-in-all, Hygieia provides the much-required relief and answers to many skin problems that crop up with age. With regular care and maintenance, the product can help skin look younger and fresher. Hygieia comes highly recommended by dermatologists and is advisable for use for customers above 30 years.
Learn more
The Importance of Clean Eating for Skin Health
Clean eating is an important concept, but the term itself has created some confusion over the years. The human body is complex and very specific about how it interacts with stimuli — so are the foods we eat. Combining the two takes an understanding of the role food plays in health and, yes, beauty. What is clean eating? Clean eating is a concept based on eating more simply and organically. Like the reemerging keto and paleo diets, the idea is to replace processed items with whole, nutrient-rich foods. These are the foods the body evolved to get the most benefits from, long before modern diets became the norm. Of course, modern diets aren’t just built around what food to eat. Food carries a lot of social value for us too. This is why diets often have a cultural element to them, and this one is no different. Clean eating is also a response to the toll processed foods take on our bodies. Our skin isn’t immune to that toll, either. We see this best in the gut–skin axis —- the relationship between the digestive system and skin health. So how does clean eating support skincare? Modern diets and skin health The saying goes that beauty isn’t skin deep, but neither is skin health. Even topicals — beauty products applied on the skin surface – add nutrients like Vitamin C to support healthy cell functions. Fruits like pomegranates, berries, and citrus are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which damage skin cells and create signs of premature aging. Some foods can have an equal impact the other way. Diets with high levels of fat, sugar, and alcohol lead to more free radical production. We know that high-sodium foods can trick the body into retaining more water and restricting blood vessels. These are just some of the main causes of inflammation in the skin, which is what gives the face a puffy appearance. Sugary drinks also impact our metabolisms and insulin production. This has a knock-on effect on oil production on the skin and the likelihood of acne. Stimuli like coffee also restrict our sleep, which is when the skin does most of its repair work, including: Rebalancing antioxidant and free radical levels Regenerating collagen supply Repairing damaged skin cells What clean eating isn’t Before we dive deeper into how clean eating can combat the consequences of modern diets, we need to dispel some myths. The word “clean” implies that all processed foods are bad for us. The truth is that processed doesn’t always mean “dirty” and “clean” doesn’t always mean healthy. For example, any food with additives in it is usually labeled as processed. Additives can be growth hormones in cows' milk that affect our hormonal balance. They can also be vitamin D added to that same milk to fortify bones and the immune system. On the other hand, while whole foods are generally the best foods, diets are about how we structure the intake. A diet without enough variation, eating at irregular times and portion sizes can be just as harmful to our health. So what’s the best way to approach clean eating for skin health? Clean eating supports natural health functions The Harvard School of Public Health defines a clean, balanced diet as: Colorful and varied fruits and vegetables Whole grains like wheat, oats, and brown rice Protein from lean meat sources, beans, and nuts Healthy plant-based oils like olive, sunflower, and canola Plenty of water, very little sugary drinks and dairy products The body knows how to take care of itself better than we do. The role of a diet is to supply the right fuel, at the right time, in the right quantity. Clean eating gives us a great foundation by advocating for food that’s as close to its natural state as possible. Done right, a clean eating diet supplements the natural functions responsible for our health – even on the skin. Skin health and the vital role it plays Good skin care isn’t just about aesthetics or appearance, It’s important to keep in mind that, at the end of the day, the skin is an organ – the largest one in the body. It has a purpose in maintaining overall health and protecting the entire body. When we treat it like the crucial organ it is, the role our diets play becomes clearer. Clean eating is key to skin health for two reasons here. First, it adds more macro and micronutrients to our diet – essential for cell functions. Second, it removes the foods that inhibit those same functions. Processed foods aren’t just taxing on our health because of what they contain. Sometimes, the real danger is in what they don’t have. They’re often calorie-dense, but lack the fiber, nutrients, and vitamins needed for good health. Restrict only what restricts your health That said, most diets need to be tailored to personal and practical needs. Where you live can significantly restrict access to whole foods. Allergies and intolerances do the same thing to which foods you can ingest. Budget, physical activity, and culture are often considerations too. You don’t need to replace everything in your pantry to reap the benefits of clean eating. Instead, focus on the whole foods that fit your lifestyle best. Clean eating principles are excellent guidelines, but you don’t need to follow them to the letter to make informed decisions. Clean eating the right way Many trendy diets come and go. They often try to introduce new food concepts that may not always last. The best diets are based on the fundamentals of healthy eating – the things we already know can help. Clean eating follows many of the concepts the beauty industry has been teaching for years regarding skin health. Nutrient-rich whole foods in. Problematic ingredients out. Youthful, glowing skin starts with what we eat and how we support healthy cellular functions. When it comes to health and skincare, clean eating teaches us how to meet our bodies halfway.
Learn more
What Are the Consequences of Not Getting Enough Sleep?
Getting enough sleep is the most important part of quality skincare. Think of how a bad night’s sleep affects us mentally. We start the morning feeling fatigued, sluggish, and drained — the consequences on skin health can be just as dramatic. There’s good news, though. A full night’s rest is as beneficial as any spa day, and it’s free! To understand the role sleep plays in beauty and skincare, we need to look at what happens when we don’t get enough of it. Beauty sleep — the key to healthy, glowing skin The body is incredible at taking care of itself, but only when our daily habits don’t get in the way. While sleep is associated with resting, it’s also when many key functions become active. Blood flow increases while we’re asleep, delivering nutrients to skin cells and balancing key functions. This also helps the epidermis repair UV damage caused by exposure to harsh sunlight. Even the processes that don’t happen in the skin play a role in its health. Sleep promotes a strong immune system and regulates stress hormones like cortisol. High cortisol levels often lead to more oil production in skin glands. Too much of it can clog pores and create a surface for bacteria and other irritants that lead to breakouts. What happens when we don’t get enough sleep? Quality sleep has an amazing ability to restore, repair, and rejuvenate the entire body. When we don’t get enough of it, we restrict the processes that leave us with supple, glowing skin. The more sleep we lose, the more the negative effects add up. A 2020 study looked at the impact of restricted sleep over six nights in 32 women. Dehydration symptoms started after just one night. This led to wrinkling as the skin lost moisture and became duller. After four nights of restricted sleep, surface texture showed signs of aggravation. Over the entire study, poor sleep affected elasticity the most. Bear in mind that researchers only restricted sleep to four hours. While adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a night, our lives are busier than ever. It’s not hard to find yourself trying to function with only half of that. Like any healthy routine, getting enough sleep starts with forming a habit. When we don’t, we leave our bodies vulnerable and limit the skin’s capacity to protect itself. But how exactly do some of these consequences come about? Visible signs of not getting enough sleep The skin is a complex organ. It’s as sensitive as it is resilient, and we’re still learning about it today. Poor quality sleep doesn’t always impact the skin in the same way. Lifestyle, diet, weather, and stress can also weaken the benefits of quality sleep, but there are common causes we can look out for. Let’s look at the visible signs of restricted sleep, and some of the best-known causes behind them. Puffiness – water retention While oversleeping can lead to puffiness in the face, not sleeping enough will do the same thing. Puffiness is the result of fluid buildup in the skin. There’s a myth that drinking water before bed causes this swelling, but it’s the opposite. When the body is dehydrated, blood vessels enlarge, which helps them retain water. High sodium foods, caffeine, and sleeping face down can aggravate the puffy look. Drinking water and getting enough sleep will help regulate how much water the skin retains while keeping it hydrated and plump. Dull complexion – poor circulation and stress We all have an idea of what radiant skin looks like. Whether that’s a vibrant glow to even coloration, it all starts with quality sleep. This is when the skin balances the factors behind a healthy complexion, from stress hormones to circulation. Stress slows down key functions responsible for cell repair. High-stress levels have the same impact on the skin as poor sleep does. Combined, the two increase inflammation while restricting blood flow, giving the skin a dull appearance. This is how dark circles form under the eyes too. Luckily, getting enough sleep is a great way to regulate stress hormones while supporting skin vitality. Wrinkles and fine lines — dehydration Wrinkles are usually associated with aging and sun damage from harsh UV rays, but dehydration can make them more prominent. Dehydrated skin loses some of its fullness, deepening fine lines on the surface. Keep in mind, though, that dehydrated skin and dry skin aren’t the same conditions. Dry skin is related to oil production and skin type. Dehydration is caused by a lack of water. Getting enough sleep is good for both conditions, but the treatments won’t be the same beyond that. Premature aging – lower collagen production Without enough sleep at night, collagen production slows down. Collagen deficiency can create issues throughout the body, from aching joints to thinning hair. On the skin, this tends to show up as signs of premature aging. Collagen is the protein that gives skin its structure and stretchiness. It makes up 30% of the body’s cells and 90% of dermal fibers in the skin. This is why sleep restriction has such a profound effect on elasticity over time. Collagen helps the skin handle complex movements without losing structure. It slows down the appearance of wrinkles and sagging. Skin will naturally lose collagen throughout the day, so healthy sleep is crucial for restoring it in the evening. Quality sleep is the foundation of good skincare Similar to the benefits of getting enough sleep, the consequences can add up over time. The body naturally does the things that promote healthy skin, but only if it has enough time. We can support these functions by making quality sleep a nightly habit. The right beauty products can supplement skincare as issues come up. Habits like drinking enough water and winding down in the evening will also make sleep easier to come by. Just a few adjustments can make a massive difference to your skin’s appearance and overall health, especially with age. As busy as our lives can get, nothing supports a good skincare routine like getting enough rest.
Learn more
Stay Young With A Strong Mind? 9 Ways to Improve Your Mind and Body to Stay Young
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be difficult to make time for the gym and maintain a healthy diet. But staying young, healthy, and fit doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these nine tips, you can optimize your everyday routine and feel great while doing so. Here are 9 ways to keep a strong mind and body: Make sleep a priority. A key way to staying young, healthy, and fit is to make sleep a priority. Studies have shown that the older you get, the more sleep you need. According to the National Sleep Foundation, most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for optimal health and wellness. However, older adults often need to sleep more than this, so if you’re having trouble sleeping, or if you feel like you’re not getting enough sleep, speak to your doctor. Eat healthy. As we age, our bodies naturally start to slow down. This means that it’s important to fuel your body with the right nutrients so that it can stay healthy and strong. One of the best ways to do this is by eating a balanced, healthy diet. This can be as simple as replacing the salty snacks in your cupboard with healthy alternatives like nuts or berries or choosing whole-wheat bread over white. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult, and making small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your health and wellness. Commit to regular exercise. Regular exercise has been proven to increase energy, improve sleep, and reduce stress and anxiety, which can all improve your overall health as you grow older. Regular exercise can improve your overall health, reduce your risk of chronic disease, and reduce your risk of falling as you age. If exercise is new to you or you haven’t been active for a while, it’s important to start small and work your way up. Stay hydrated. Hydrating your body is important at any stage in your life, but it’s especially essential as you age. As you grow older, you naturally lose muscle mass, and your skin may become drier and thinner. You can help slow down this process by staying hydrated with enough water every day. The rule of thumb is drinking eight cups (or 64 ounces) of water each day. If you’re doing regular exercise, you may need even more. Take care of your skin. Looking after your skin is important if you want to maintain a youthful appearance. There are a few simple steps you can take to help keep your skin looking its best. Make sure to clean your face every day with a gentle cleanser. This will remove dirt, oil and makeup that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. You should also exfoliate a few times a week to slough away dead skin cells and reveal brighter, more radiant skin. You should also moisturize your skin daily to keep it hydrated and looking plump and youthful. It’s especially important to use facial moisturizers. Choose a moisturizer that’s suitable for your skin type and apply it daily to tighten lines and wrinkles, remove dark spots, and return a healthy glow to your smile. Workout to keep your mind sharp. We may not be able to remember names or faces as easily, we may have more trouble concentrating, and we may find that we just don't think as quickly as we used to. While there's no way to completely stop the aging process, there are things we can do to keep our minds sharp and help prevent some of the mental decline that comes with age. Stimulate your mind. One of the best ways to keep your mind sharp is to keep it active. Do crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or other brainteasers to give your mind a workout. Read, learn new things, and take on new challenges. Get outside in the sunshine. Spending time outside in nature is one of the best ways to keep your body young, healthy, and fit. Exposing yourself to natural light can help to regulate your circadian rhythm, improve your mood, increase your vitamin D levels, and reduce your risk of certain types of cancer. Just be sure to protect your skin! You can also reap the benefits of being outside by committing to regular exercise outside. If you’re lucky enough to live near a park or forest, you can walk, jog, or even go for a hike whenever you have time. Use anti-aging products. There are plenty of great anti-aging products on the market, such as moisturizers, serums, and eye creams. Using these products can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. While you can’t turn back the clock, you can take preventative measures to slow down the aging process. One of the best ways to do this is by using anti-aging products. There are a variety of anti-aging skincare products available on the market today, including serums, moisturizers, and eye creams. Live a healthy lifestyle. It’s no secret that living a healthy lifestyle can help you look and feel younger. After all, healthy habits like eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep can help improve your overall health and well-being. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. But did you know that certain foods can also help improve your skin’s appearance? For instance, foods that are high in antioxidants, like berries and dark leafy greens, can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. And foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and avocados, can help keep your skin hydrated and looking plump. Conclusion As you get older, it can be easy to relax a little too much and let your health fall by the wayside. However, there are lots of ways you can stay young, healthy, and fit later in life. The best way to stay young is to take care of yourself and be proactive about staying fit and healthy. If you make a couple small changes to your routine, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated, you can really help yourself maintain your health and feel great. These tips are designed to help you stay energetic, vibrant, and strong well into your later years.
Learn more
Niacinamide for Improving Skin Tone and Texture
It takes a good skincare routine with the right ingredients to attain a healthy skin tone and texture. Niacinamide plays an essential role in keeping your skin healthy. That’s why it’s a popular ingredient in skincare and used by experts around the world. So what is niacinamide and how does it improve the tone and texture of our skin? What is niacinamide good for? You may know that there are two forms of vitamin B3. One being nicotinic acid and the other being niacinamide. We need vitamin B3 to help our bodies convert food into usable energy and help cells carry out important chemical reactions. While both niacinamide and nicotinic acid provide vitamin B3 activity, they have different chemical structures that affect your health. For example, niacinamide is preferred to treat a B3 deficiency when it leads to pellagra as niacinamide had fewer side effects. Niacinamide can treat a plethora of B3 deficiencies. As well as a range of general skin health issues, including acne and eczema. What are the niacinamide effects on your skin? The water-soluble nutrient works with the natural substances in your skin to improve tone and texture. For example, it can help build proteins in the skin to lock in moisture and prevent skin barrier damage in several ways. Strengthens the skin barrier The skin barrier protects our complexion from pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and more. However, once free radicals weaken the skin barrier, we can experience irritation that leads to sensitive skin and other concerns. Applying niacinamide can stimulate ceramide synthesis, which improves skin cell health, protects skin from damage, and promotes anti-aging. Overall, promoting the skin barrier’s function to better help your body fight off toxins. Reduces the appearance of pores Skin texture tends to appear rough and bumpy when oil and debris get clogged in pores. The pores then increase in size as the clog worsens. Using niacinamide routinely can help pores return to their natural size. It contains properties that can normalize the pore lining and unclog oil and dirt. It also helps regulate sebum production to limit the amount of oil your skin produces. Niacinamide restores the strength of the skin barrier and the sebaceous glands, which produce oil. By normalizing the glands, the product can prevent and tame acne. Higher concentrations of niacinamide can also visibly tighten pores when damaged by the sun. The sun can cause pores to stretch, leading to what some call “orange peel skin.” However, niacinamide can reinforce skin cells to improve the appearance of pores. Retains moisture Our skin’s ceramides start to deplete as we age, so our skin can become dry and flaky due to moisture loss and dehydration. However, niacinamide promotes the production of ceramides and elastin, which are vital components of the skin carrier and helps to retain moisture. Similarly, niacinamide has been shown to improve the hydrating effects of moisturizers. Applying the nutrient with hydrating ingredients, like glycerin or sodium hyaluronate, can help the skin absorb moisture to prevent dry, tight, and flaky skin. Improves discoloration and uneven skin tone It is thought that niacinamide helps restrain melanosomes, which produce melanin that generates pigmentation in our skin and hair. It blocks the transfer of pigment to the skin to prevent discoloration from forming. Niacinamide can also break up existing pigmentation to create a more even and brighter skin tone. One study found that applying a niacinamide moisturizer with 5% concentration twice daily for two weeks improved hyperpigmentation. Reverses DNA damage Our skin can incur DNA damage without us even noticing. This is because a number of free radicals, or daily stressors, can impact our DNA, including environmental pollution and exposure to UV radiation. When niacinamide is applied topically, it converts into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), which contains potent free-radical fighting antioxidant properties. This works to reduce oxidative cellular damage within the skin that is caused by free radicals and reverse the damage. Soothes inflammation Niacinamide has been proven to help heal acne by regulating oil production and unclogging pores. However, it can also help reduce the redness and swelling that occurs with acne. As niacinamide can strengthen the skin barrier, it prevents stinging and burning. Its anti-inflammatory properties also decrease the severity and scarring of acne. As a result, it reduces the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from developing. Where does niacinamide go in your routine? To feel the full effects of niacinamide, you should include it in your skincare routine in the order of: Cleanser Toner Exfoliant Serums, treatments, and moisturizers in order of thinnest to thickest (including niacinamide) SPF Niacinamide is compatible with other powerful ingredients and is often paired with hyaluronic acid, AHAs, BHA, and antioxidants. However, niacinamide products are meant to be left on your skin to achieve the best results. Using a niacinamide product like a serum, cream, or lotion is ideal, but the nutrient is available in a range of products. For example, a toner can rehydrate and replenish the skin after cleansing. Whereas an eye cream containing niacinamide can reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and dark circles. How long does niacinamide take to work? Based on clinical studies, it depends on the condition of your skin before you can visibly see the results of using niacinamide. In mild skincare conditions, you can visibly notice the niacinamide working within two weeks when used twice daily. However, it may take 4-8 weeks for people with more stubborn concerns. You may need a higher concentration if you have stubborn or mature skin with advanced signs of aging or sun damage. Consider using a 20% niacinamide serum twice daily to smooth skin and improve skin firmness. Our new Niacinamide cream is now available on Amazon exclusively! Click here
Learn more
Crucial Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Quality of Life
Early in the village of Yazuri Hara, just two hours away from Tokyo, Hiroshi Sakamoto starts his day. At a time when most people would want an extra hour under the covers, he’s up, ready for the next five hours of farmwork. He isn’t the only one. Many of his peers are starting their days too. Even at 86 years old, he’s not an outlier among his peers. Known as the Village of Long Life, 10% of Yuzuri Hara’s residents are 85 or older. That’s a higher average than anywhere in North America or Japan. For all of its people living vibrant lives well into old age, Yazuri Hara isn’t too different from other villages in many ways. Sakamoto still smokes more than a pack of cigarettes a day. Takahashi, a 93–year–old resident, works under the sun but doesn’t see much need for sunblock or cream. His skin is still soft and Sakamoto is still physically fit enough to farm his fields daily. For all of its quarks and ordinary features, there is something researchers believe might be unique about Yuzuri Hara 一 the diet. The secret ingredient Unlike most Japanese regions, rice isn’t much of a staple in the Village of Long Life. Yazuri Hara residents enjoy a diet of satsumaimo, konyaku, satoimo, and imoji 一 all varieties of white and sweet potatoes. It’s a diet rich in diverse carbohydrates, each one a source of vital nutrients. However, these staples all share a compound that may be the key to the village’s nickname: starch. Having studied the local lifestyle extensively, town doctor Dr. Toyosuke Komori writes that the low–iron, vegetable diet could stimulate the production of an important substance. One of the most well-studied substances in skincare, to be exact: hyaluronic acid (HA). What is hyaluronic acid? Also known as hyaluronan, hyaluronic acid is a clear, gooey compound produced by our bodies. As a naturally-made substance, it plays a key role in eye, skin, and tissue health. Its powerful properties and versatility make it one of the most important ingredients in many leading skin care products. But while we find it often in creams and other topicals, Yazuri Hara locals may just have the perfect diet to boost its natural production. When Dr. Komori describes its effects, he doesn’t talk about the conditions he normally treats. In the Village of Long Life, the most fascinating medical conditions are the ones he almost never comes across locally. “I’ve never seen anyone suffer from skin cancer here,” he says. He describes a patient in her 90s as having “spotless skin”. These findings were partly what kicked off pharmaceutical research into hyaluronic acid in Japan. Japanese companies provided 1000 people with test supplements, and the results spoke for themselves. Our relationship to hyaluronic acid Of the 1000 people given hyaluronic acid in pill form, half reported having better eyesight and smoother skin. Many noted they were less fatigued too, indicating that the benefits aren’t only skin-deep. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration approved another hyaluronic acid product. This one was an injection, tested specifically for treating osteoarthritis. Sports medicine specialist and orthopedist, Dr. Irving Raphael, highlights what it could mean for treating joint pain. The injection was designed to coat joint surfaces in hyaluronic acid. As an elastic and natural lubricant, the body already uses it to lower friction and absorb shock in the joints. Like many pains associated with aging, it's the slowing production of HA we tend to feel over time. Hyaluronic acid and quality of life While further tests offer plenty of insights to orthopedics and physicians, medical researchers in these fields are still exploring its full effects. When it comes to skin health, though, dermatologists have been studying this incredible compound for decades. When it comes to providing a higher quality of life, skincare is where hyaluronic acid truly shines. Supplements and beauty products have been developed to get maximum benefits when applied directly to the skin. Crucially, hyaluronic acid is a major component of the skin. Half of all the hyaluronan in our bodies is stored there. But what health and wellness benefits does it offer specifically? Supple, glowing skin Like collagen, hyaluronic acid is responsible for giving the tissue cells structure and elasticity. At a molecular level, this keeps tissue stretchy and strong enough to withstand the natural forces of moving. When we take a step back, the result is supple, plump skin with a healthy glow. While Tadanao Takahashi might provide an outlier example of these effects in action, sunscreen is still recommended. Hyaluronic acid production slows down with age, but UV radiation can accelerate the aging process prematurely. Anti-aging properties Hyaluronan also plays a major role in reducing visible signs of premature aging. It's amazing at retaining moisture in the skin, giving the surface that full, plump appearance. This can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Wound repair Despite being stored throughout the body, hyaluronic acid concentrates on damaged areas. Damage sites on the skin contain higher levels of the compound, which is key to effective wound healing. Hyaluronic acid reduces inflammation around the area, boosting circulation in the area for speedy repair. Its antibacterial properties help to ward off infection on the wound itself, and the overall effect reduces pain throughout the area. By promoting all of these cell functions when they’re needed most, hyaluronic acid is vital for better healing. Even with nothing to repair, the elasticity it offers our cells helps them withstand damage proactively. Supplement your skincare with the right hyaluronic acid cream Moisture retention isn’t just good for smoothing wrinkles, either. The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, loses water quicker in winter. The drier, colder climate “leech” moisture from the surface, drying out skin faster than normal. Without enough moisture, cell functions slow down. HA, like the one found in our Hygieia Hyaluronic Acid Face Cream, revitalizes your skin and restores its natural moisture barrier. Nourishing and packed with essential ingredients, it’s the perfect vegan product to add to your daily skincare routine.
Learn more
How to Detox Your Skin with Foods You Already Eat
Vitamins and minerals play a huge role in our lives. There’s a good reason why the benefits of healthy eating are so central to every part of the health industry. Of course, those benefits have so much potential that they extend to beauty too. Alongside hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C is probably the most loved ingredient in skincare products. When applied as a topical, it does a great job of nourishing the skin directly and supporting its natural functions. But what about the nutrients in the foods we eat? Specifically, what role does food play in detox and skin health? What is detoxing exactly? Detoxing has been around longer than most hotly debated topics in health, wellness, and beauty discussions. While it’s a well-studied medical and biological process, its place in skincare isn’t as established. Simply put, detox, or detoxification, is the process of removing toxins from the body. Despite its popularity in dietary circles, detox is a process our bodies evolved to do naturally. This is the first point we should make: we can only talk about detoxing if we’re specific about terms and functions. Much of the public discourse through the years has loosened some definitions. Dermatologists continue to push back against a lot of misinformation spread by trendy diets that weren’t always scientifically sound. These terms are really helpful when we’re looking at what we can do to remove toxins more effectively. Understanding the body’s detox process As a natural process, our bodies don’t need us to do much to begin detoxing. Like breathing and blinking, it's an automatic function that needs to happen whether we’re thinking about it or not. But skincare and health industries understand that we can either help or hinder these processes in the lifestyle choices we make. Detoxing, when done right, is about limiting the habits that make it harder for our bodies to do their jobs while providing the right fuel. While many diets start and end as fads, nutrition is one of the cornerstones of good health. This applies to skincare too. Detox in skincare Despite being the largest organ in the body, our skin isn’t the main mechanism for removing toxins. According to Dr. Fayne Frey, direct skin detox isn’t really a thing, medically speaking. That said, dermatologists agree on two facts that are essential to supporting skincare here. First, even though it doesn’t flush them the way our kidneys do, the skin is still exposed to many toxins. It’s the part of the body most vulnerable to environmental toxins like pollutants, dirt, and UV rays. That’s right, as far as the skin is concerned, sunlight is an environmental toxin. Photoaging caused by UV radiation is one of the main environmental stressors we deal with in skincare. Second, dermatologists agree that the best way to detox is to simply make sure our bodies are healthy enough to do it well. What it really means to detox your skin Let’s quickly look at photoaging again. The skin keeps environmental toxins from entering our bodies, but that’s also why it can’t “flush” them out. It’s more of a natural barrier than a filter. However, UV radiation stimulates a reaction in our skin cells that produce free radicals. These highly reactive molecules create oxidative stress that can damage other healthy cells. Luckily, our bodies developed a way to deal with these toxins specifically: antioxidants. These compounds neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and restoring balance in cell production. The antioxidants in certain foods are exactly why they’re so important to health and skincare. In many ways, they’re the best way to directly support the removal of toxins from the skin. Environmental toxins, the ones that mostly concern the skin, can also cause irritation and inflammation on the outermost layer 一 the epidermis. Antioxidant-rich foods with anti-inflammatory properties are the closest things to “superfoods” in skincare. So the question remains: which foods should you add to your diet to help combat toxins? Better yet, could you already be eating some? Foods that support detox functions Foods are a diverse source of fuel. The right balance can provide us with all the essential nutrients we need to promote healthy functions. When it comes to removing toxins from the body, you need to look for certain nutrients specifically. There are the best foods to find them in. Dark chocolate That’s right, chocolate isn’t just a guilty pleasure, certain ones can have health benefits too. Dark chocolate is more nutritious than normal chocolate bars because of the lower sugar content. The cocoa in chocolate can have up to 15 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces. That’s more than blueberries by weight. Berries That said, berries are nutrient-rich staples of any healthy diet. Blueberries and goji berries are packed with essential antioxidants. Strawberries are too, while also being a great source of that all-important vitamin C. Add raspberries to the mix and there’s enough variety in this group for every palette! Dark leafy greens (and red ones too!) Kale, cabbage, and spinach are some of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available anywhere. Kale and cabbage’s high vitamin A, K, and C content give them that much more as antioxidant sources. Spinach nourishes the body with two antioxidants that help protect the eyes from UV damage too: lutein and zeaxanthin. While we love all three as dark leafy greens, their red varieties are even richer in antioxidants. Pecans With up to 10.6 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces, pecans give our antioxidant levels the perfect boost. They’re also a great source of healthy fats and can help reduce cholesterol in the blood. That said, their high-fat content means its best to eat them in moderation for the best results. Beans While legumes are excellent parts of a healthy diet in general, beans stand out as a rich source of antioxidants. Pinto beans and edamame are particular favorites for detoxing. For an even easier substitute, soybean oil is a great way to boost antioxidants in general cooking. Skin detox means supporting your body’s natural functions Our bodies are pretty adept at looking after themselves, but they need a little help for optimal performance. You may have some of these foods in your diet already. You may be considering adding a few more. In either case, your body and your skin will thank you!
Learn more
The Effects of Salt Water on the Health of Your Skin
The idea of putting more salt in our bodies is frowned upon in many health sectors, but what about putting it on our bodies? Salt is one of the most important minerals in modern society. Indeed, ancient civilizations knew about its many properties and made great use of them too. According to Snehal Amin, MD, FAAD, Amin 一 ancient Egyptians used it to cleanse and disinfect the skin. But, as with all things skincare, much of the story lays beneath the surface. Is saltwater good for the skin? The general rule with any skincare ingredient is this: the stronger a compound is, the more specific we have to be about its application. Just look at Vitamin C. It’s one of the most popular ingredients in beauty products, and for good reason. It’s nutrient-rich, moisturizing, and supports healthy cell function. And yet, when used in topicals, our skin can only absorb it at a concentration of 20–30%. Any higher and the absorption rate drops. So what about salt? What the experts say about saltwater and skincare A 2018 study in the International Journal of Biometeorology investigated the relationship between saltwater and skin. Researchers found that sodium-rich water could act as a therapeutic agent when applied topically. According to the study: “When topically administered, this water-rich in sodium and chloride penetrates the skin where it is able to modify cellular osmotic pressure and stimulate nerve receptors in the skin via cell membrane ion channels known as “Piezo” proteins.” Dr. Adam Sheridan of the Australasian College of Dermatologists discussed a similar effect with seawater. However, he provides an important caveat about its role in skincare: “[Salt water] is hydrating up to a certain point, so if you go for a relatively short swim it’s good for you, but it will be dehydrating if you get in there too long,“ Medical researchers and dermatologists agree: saltwater can be beneficial, but only in moderation, and only at the right concentration. Sea salt vs table salt: what’s the difference for skincare? Dr. Sheridan’s seawater example brings up another important point. Not all salt is good salt, at least when it comes to your skin. Salt from ocean water is usually considered healthier than table salt. It’s less processed, contains trace minerals like potassium and calcium, and the salt granules tend to be larger. The last point is the only one we need to focus on here. When it comes to skincare, salt is a mechanical exfoliant. It works like a sugar or coffee scrub, removing dead cells through physical motion, not a chemical reaction. Crucially, it’s water-soluble. This means the granules meltdown before they become too abrasive, Potential benefits of saltwater on the health of your skin When done safely, saltwater can be a fun, homemade treatment to cleanse the skin. But what benefits should you look out for most? Exfoliation As mentioned, salt is a great mechanical exfoliant, but any saltwater solution should be made with care. As a general rule, don’t use more than a teaspoon of salt per 2 cups of boiled water for your solution. This will keep the concentration low enough to apply topically. Always give the mixture enough time to cool. The trace minerals in sea salt can provide extra nourishment for smooth skin. Still, the key when starting is moderation, especially for exfoliating an area as sensitive as the face. Detoxing For a full-body treatment, a saltwater bath is a great way to mimic the revitalizing effects of seawater, especially when there’s no beach nearby. Again, pay attention to salt concentration and how long your skin is exposed to any solution. If you add a one-third cup of salt 15-30 minutes in a warm bath is all you need for a relaxing, detoxifying soak. While Epsom salt is considered the go-to for detoxing, the minerals in sea salt and seawater generally) can be beneficial too. Salt baths detoxify the skin through reverse osmosis. Sulfates in the salt flush heavy metals and toxins. Don’t stay in the bath too long, and drink plenty of water before and after to keep your body hydrated throughout. Reduction in pore size That’s right, saltwater can reduce the appearance of pores. The solution tightens the skin while flushing oils and toxins that clog pores and make them more visible. The result: clear and smooth skin. This may be particularly valuable to people with acne-prone or oily skin. That said, this is not an acne treatment. Your two most important guides are your skin’s reaction and the advice of your dermatologist. Things to keep in mind about saltwater in skincare As exciting as the potential benefits are, there are some considerations you should be aware of. Salt, as a mineral, is harsh on the skin in high concentrations. Even in a salt bath, it’s only nourishing for the first 20-40 minutes or so. Beyond that, it starts to actively dry out the skin. If you’re unsure about how your skin might react, speak to a professional dermatologist before trying a salt treatment. Use salt sparingly in your solution, at least in the beginning. You can always work your way up, but don’t exceed the recommended amounts. Even if you feel the positive effects, remember that saltwater shouldn’t be part of a daily skincare routine. A weekly salt bath is more than enough. When it comes to exfoliating, either with saltwater or salt scrub, give your skin ample time to recover between sessions. If you experience any of the following signs, stop applying it and contact your dermatologist: Inflammation Irritation Dryness or redness Itchy skin Overly tight skin Hyperpigmentation And don’t forget the most important rule in skincare 一 moisturize! Could saltwater be right for your skincare and health? Our skin has a delicate relationship with saltwater and salt in general. Even the sodium we eat can impact our appearance, so treat it with the respect it deserves. When you follow best practices, though, you put yourself in a position to see amazing results!
Learn more