Skin Care Advice

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by Margaret Tomaszewicz

Clean Beauty: Your Complete Guide to Natural and Organic Skincare

If you're like many people these days, you're reading the labels of virtually everything you put in or on your body. However, you still want to look good, and your daily beauty regimen is part of that. Clean beauty is more than just a buzz phrase. It is a way of life. Saying that federal regulation regarding what goes into beauty products is outdated is an understatement. Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for safe products are more than 80 years old, and the only way that toxic beauty products can be recalled is if the manufacturer volunteers to do so. Thus, it's up to you to take toxic products out of your life, but you might not know where or how to start. Does everything have to be completely natural, or are there some manufactured chemicals that are okay? Here is what you need to know to select clean beauty products. What Does Clean Beauty Mean? Clean beauty products are safe for humans and the planet. A manufacturer like WODA Skin Care has considered human and environmental health when making its products by following European practices. The product should have a non-toxic element as a baseline and plant-based ingredients that produce results. Clean beauty is similar to clean eating, which involves minimally processed foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. Ethical and sustainable foods are also part of clean eating. Another problem with the FDA is that the agency doesn't regulate words such as organic, green, non-toxic, or cruelty-free so that these designations can vary among manufacturers. Essentially, here is what you need to know: Green - The product does not harm the environment but be careful with this one as some manufacturers simply claim that their products protect the planet's resources Organic - Products must have at least 95% organic ingredients to bear the USDA seal and also meet handling and manufacturing specifications Non-toxic - Ingredients in products have been shown not to produce any adverse health effects Sustainable - Ingredients are ethically sourced and proven safe for the environment and include sustainable or no-waste packaging Vegan - Does not contain animal byproducts or ingredients Cruelty-free - Not tested on animals In short, clean beauty products are mindfully created and produced without any proven toxic ingredients. They're also ethically sourced and made with body health and the environment in mind. WODA's Perfect 2-in-1 Cleanser follows these principles as our products are based on scientific research, using organic and natural ingredients to meet your skincare needs. Avoiding Ingredients To follow clean beauty practices, you should avoid certain ingredients. Although the European Union has banned more than 1,000 substances in many beauty formulations, most are still allowed in the United States. You'll want to make sure the product you choose does not have the following ingredients. Parabens This chemical mimics estrogen. Evidence links it to reproductive problems, thyroid disruption, and hormone-related cancers. It is included in products to slow the growth of mold and other microbes. Europe has banned five types of parabens, isopropyl-, isobutyl-, phenyl-, benzyl-, and pentylparabens, all of which are still legal in the United States. Phthalates and Fragrance Manufacturers want their products to smell good, so you'll continue buying them, but wherever you see or smell a fragrance, phthalates are usually there too. This chemical helps that good smell last longer, but it is also linked to reproductive harm and diabetes, and even cardiovascular problems in some studies. Hydroquinone Found in skin-lightening creams and serums, hydroquinone is a topical bleaching agent. Studies have linked it to some cancers, abnormal adrenal gland function, and some cancers. Talc While talc's implication in ovarian cancer because of its presence in baby powder is well known, the problem occurs with this natural mineral when it hasn't been purified as it could contain asbestos. Talc is an ingredient in face powders and eye shadows. Triclosan Many sanitizing hand and body soaps and mascara contain this antibacterial and antimicrobial chemical. However, no research has indicated that it provides an advantage over soap and water, while it has also been linked to liver fibrosis, hormone disruption, and skin cancer. Silica Many different products contain silica as it is absorbent and prevents products from caking. The problem occurs when crystalline silica, a known human carcinogen, sometimes contaminates formulations with amorphous silica, which is FDA-approved. Refined silica also poses environmental concerns as it is not biodegradable. Other Ingredients to Avoid Remain wary of products that contain the following ingredients. According to the Good Face Project, these and others are either known carcinogens or somehow harmful to humans: Chemical UV filters Octinoxate and Oxybenzone Diethanolamine (DEA) Sodium laureth sulfate (SLS) Formaldehyde Polyethylene like PEG-10 laurate Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) How to Transition to Clean Beauty Products Switching to clean beauty can be overwhelming because we use so many different products. A good place to start is with facial and hair products. Think shampoos, conditioners, mousse, hairspray, and the like. You don't want toxins seeping in through your scalp. From there, move onto facial products, including moisturizers, eye creams, brightening serums, and other skin care items. Follow with cosmetics. Once you have accomplished this, you can move onto finding clean beauty products for the whole body. Find one or two product lines like WODA Skin Care and stick with it. Our Anti-Aging Collection is a great way to start a clean beauty regimen for your face with products that are targeted toward your skin type. Beware of Greenwashing Greenwashing is the practice of making a company look environmentally responsible through vague claims. Previously mentioned terms such as organic, natural, sustainable, and the like can make a manufacturer look like they care about the environment. For example, palm oil is a natural ingredient, but the harvesting of palm trees leads to deforestation in the tropics, thus negatively affecting the environment. In some cases, synthetics may even be cleaner than a natural compound that is not 100% pure. One example is synthetically-derived forms of vitamin C. However, make sure that synthetics have a purpose and are not used as fillers, stabilizers, or preservatives. The bottom line is to read labels and pay attention to ingredients. Use online reviews and ingredient resources to determine if your chosen clean beauty products are effective and don't contain any unsafe or environmentally unfriendly ingredients. Making Clean Beauty a Sustainable Lifestyle Choice As someone who has spent over 25 years in the skincare industry, I've seen firsthand how transitioning to clean beauty can transform not just your skin, but your overall approach to self-care. That's why I developed products like our Age Defy: Vitamin C & Stem Cell Serum and Hydrate: Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Serum with clean, natural ingredients that deliver real results. One question I often get from clients is how to maintain a clean beauty routine long-term. The key is to start small and build gradually. Begin by replacing one product at a time, starting with those that stay on your skin the longest, like moisturizers and serums. When choosing products, look for those with transparent ingredient lists and clear explanations of their benefits. For those feeling overwhelmed by the transition, I recommend exploring our comprehensive skincare collections that feature carefully curated products working together harmoniously. Remember, clean beauty isn't about perfection – it's about making conscious choices that benefit both your skin and the environment. Start with products you use daily, read labels carefully, and trust your instincts. Finally, don't forget to track your progress. Take photos of your skin before starting your clean beauty journey and document any changes you notice. This will help you stay motivated and recognize the positive impact of your choices. Clean beauty is not just a trend – it's a sustainable approach to skincare that honors both your health and the environment. Many of my clients report not just improved skin health but also a greater sense of wellbeing knowing they're making choices that align with their values.

by Margaret Tomaszewicz

Essential Self-Care & Skincare During COVID-19: A Guide to Staying Well

You've probably heard about the widespread coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak by now. While it is an issue to take seriously, you don't need to panic. There are plenty of things you can do to take care of yourself during the coronavirus outbreak. Consider the following tips. 1. Wash your hands. Even though hand sanitizer is helpful to have, nothing trumps the act of washing your hands. Use antibacterial soap in order to thoroughly scrub once you've used the restroom. Do your best to spend at least thirty seconds with soap and water at the sink. Your fingers, fingernails, and your entire hand need to be cleansed by the time you're done. When you're using the restroom, bodily fluids get on your hands. You don't want to transfer those germs to someone else. Though it might sound like an elementary task to do, it can help you protect yourself and others. 2. Avoid touching your face, eyes, or nose. If you're someone who struggles with acne, this might seem like a tough one. When you're ready to pop that pimple or pull at that pesky ingrown hair, it's tempting to pick and prod at your face. While it's a bad habit already, you definitely don't want to do it during this outbreak. Though you've washed your hands, your hands come into contact with a lot of bacteria. Your phone, computer keyboard and the doorknob all collect bacteria. Especially when you're in public, you don't know how clean certain surfaces are. Whether you're wiping sweat off your face or blowing your nose, use a tissue or a handkerchief. Don't touch your face. 3. Eat well to keep your immune system healthy. Food is medicine. When you eat the right foods, you can heal your body, boost your immune system, and remain strong. Do your best to eat lots of nutritious foods. Foods with tons of vitamins and minerals will give your immune system a fighting chance to win. Get creative with how you prepare specific meals in order to enjoy the taste. Green, leafy vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals. You can throw some kale in a delicious smoothie to increase the nutritional benefits. If you love to eat meat, try to eat lean options that are grilled or baked instead of deep-fried. It's also great to plan your meals in advance. As you plan ahead, you'll be able to stick to a specific nutritional diet. 4. Skip the gym and go on a nature walk or practice yoga at home. If you're a gym rat, this tip probably hurts the most. The gym is such a safe space for so many people who need to release stress or lose weight. Unfortunately, the gym is rife with germs. Even though most gyms encourage and maintain a great cleaning plan, the members aren't always compliant. As people sweat on the machines, they touch their faces, eyes and other sweaty parts of their bodies. Then, they place their hands back on the equipment. Instead of exposing yourself to those germs during the outbreak, it's a better idea to find alternative ways to exercise. Go on a nature hike to challenge yourself outdoors. If you like yoga classes, put on a video so you can exercise at home. This won't be a permanent situation. However, in the meantime, it's better to be safe than sorry. Skip the gym. 5. Make homemade meals with fresh, organic ingredients. One of the main reasons why so many nutritionists strongly encourage people to make their food at home is because you'll have full control over what you're eating. When you're going through the drive-thru line at the local burger shop, you're unable to see how much oil, salt, and butter they're using. Plus, the ingredients probably aren't organically sourced. Instead of slathering mayonnaise on a fast-food burger, get in the kitchen and create your own condiments. Use tomatoes to make your tomato pesto with fresh garlic, herbs, and organic spices. Add that to your homemade burger for more flavor and nutritional impact. 6. Get a massage or a facial at smaller, one-on-one studios. While it would be nice to believe that all spas thoroughly cleanse every nook and cranny of their facility, it's easy to miss things at times. Sterilization is of the utmost importance during a time like this. Don't worry. You won't have to give up your beloved monthly massage or facial. However, it might be better to transition to a smaller studio for the time being. When you're working with someone in a smaller space with less foot traffic, you'll decrease your chances of exposure to someone else's germs. One of the reasons why schools are shutting down is because public officials want to decrease the chances of exposure in large crowds. When you're getting a facial or a massage, you're in a really vulnerable position. A one-on-one situation is much better than a public facility with lots of traffic. 7. Sneeze and cough into tissues or the crook of your elbow. If you have to sneeze or cough, don't try to hold it in because of the coronavirus outbreak. While you don't want to scare others, there's a way to cough and remain sanitary. The key is to cough into tissues. If you don't have any tissues, then cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow. Most people aren't going to come into contact with your elbow. However, when you sneeze into your tissue, be sure to discard that tissue as well as wash your hands. If you don't have a sink nearby, always carry a hand sanitizer to kill the bacteria. 8. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you're in an area where people are sick, it's important to remove yourself from that environment. You don't want to take any chances at this time. If someone is sick, encourage them to wear a mask in order to keep their germs covered. The coronavirus can be transmitted easily, and it's extremely contagious. If people are coming into work with a cold, find out if it's possible to work from home on a temporary basis. Your health is paramount. If your friends and family members are sick, it's okay to help them. However, do so from a distance. Avoid being in the same area because of how contagious the virus really is. 9. Stay home when you're sick. If you're the one who is sick, please be considerate of others. Stay home until you're feeling better. Focus primarily on getting lots of rest, consuming a lot of fluids and flushing your system out. Go to the doctor in order to get any medications or treatments to help you. However, please do not go into public spaces when you know you're not well. 10. Regularly and thoroughly clean surfaces. There is currently a shortage of antibacterial wipes and other cleaning products, as many people are restocking their supply. However, it's wise to be vigilant about cleaning all surfaces. When you're spending a lot of time at your work desk, you'd be surprised how much bacteria will build up. During this outbreak, be intentional about cleaning your surfaces down two or three times a day. If there is more foot traffic in a specific area, wipe down the surfaces even more often. 11. Get plenty of sleep. Sleep is restorative as it allows your body to recover from the previous day. When your body gets enough rest, you'll get a fighting chance to beat various sicknesses and boost your immune system. Once you know how much rest you need each night in order to feel great, stick to it. You'll only cheat your body when you try to get less sleep at night. 12. Manage your stress. Approximately 75% to 90% of all medical visits are related to stress. This means that stress can have an incredibly major impact on a person's health. Ever since the media began talking about the coronavirus outbreak, there has been a strong sense of hysteria in the air. Be intentional about finding ways to manage your stress level. When you're stressed out, you'll compromise your health. Instead, focus on deep breathing, positive thinking, and meditative practices. Everything will be okay when you control your thoughts and quiet the mind. 13. Drink plenty of fluids. Even though it's not as exciting as a glass of wine, a glass of water is one of the best drinks you can consume to take care of yourself. Your body requires water in order to function properly and flush the system of its toxins. If you focus on drinking more water, you won't need as much caffeine to feel present and alert. Plus, you'll help your digestive system when you drink lots of water. When you have less waste in your system, your body will become less sluggish and tired. 14. Avoid touching commonly used surfaces in public spaces. When you go to the grocery store, put on a pair of disposable gloves. Hundreds of people have touched those grocery store cards, doors, and more. Plenty of those people touch their faces, noses, and eyes during the process. As a result, you're coming into contact with tons of bacteria. If you can avoid touching commonly used surfaces, that's best. If you can't avoid certain items or surfaces like the gas pump, wear a pair of disposable gloves. 15. Practice self-love by pampering yourself at home. Self-care and self-love are really important during times of peace as well as times of chaos. When you're able to check in with yourself, it's a good therapeutic practice to maintain. After a long day at work, come home to a delicious meal, your favorite television show, and one of our WODA face masks. The masks are all-natural solutions for issues like blemishes, build-up, and dullness. With ingredients like charcoal, lactic acid, and Vitamin C, your skin will feel soft, supple, and cleansed by the time you're ready to wash the mask off. While this is a hectic time for the world, don't allow the coronavirus to send you into a tailspin. With these tips, you'll be able to protect yourself from any potential harm. Share this list with your friends and family as well. When everyone takes the necessary precautions, the coronavirus won't remain for long. Caring for Your Skin During Uncertain Times As an esthetician treating clients for over 25 years, I know how stress impacts skin health. During challenging times like these, maintaining a consistent skincare routine becomes essential. I recommend incorporating our Hydrate: Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Serum into your daily regimen. This natural serum helps combat the dehydrating effects of stress and extended time indoors. If you're experiencing stress-related breakouts or irritation from wearing masks, our Clear Skin Collection offers gentle yet effective solutions. Our Magic Bamboo & Charcoal Mask helps detoxify while calming the skin, and the Rejuvenate Antioxidant Facial Oil provides nourishing support while you sleep. Remember, your skincare routine can be a form of mindful self-care. Use these moments to check in with yourself, practice deep breathing, and maintain emotional balance. Focus on gentle, nurturing care for both your skin and overall well-being during this time.

by Margaret Tomaszewicz

Natural Ways to Achieve and Maintain a Healthy, Radiant Complexion

We know how important it is to have a clear and healthy complexion. However, healthy skin is far more important than just putting your best face forward at work, when out with friends or on a date. Your skin is one of the largest organs in the body. It can protect your internal organs from different outside threats like UV rays, microorganisms, pollution, dust, dander, etc. If you can maintain a healthy complexion, then you are helping your body stay protected. Healthy skin also allows your body to stay more hydrated throughout the day, which is very beneficial for your body. To achieve this healthy complexion, you should make healthy lifestyle choices. Let's look more closely at the importance of making lifestyle choices that will support your skin and complexion. Reducing Stress Almost everyone could benefit from reducing the amount of stress that they experience each day. Not only is stress harmful to your mind and body, but it can do a number on your skin. If you're experiencing high levels of stress daily, this can lead to circles and bags under your eyes, acne breakouts, a flare-up of eczema, dry skin, rashes, hives and much more. When you reduce the amount of stress that you're dealing with, this allows your skin to heal and glow. You must find ways to de-stress or minimize your stress. Some common ways include: Exercising regularly Practicing yoga regularly Spending time with friends and family Getting enough sleep at night Taking time to yourself even when you're extremely busy Getting Enough Sleep at Night Most people simply aren't getting enough sleep at night. Your average adult should be sleeping for about 8 to 9 hours each night at least. Your skin utilizes this time at night to heal and repair itself. If you're skimping on the sleep, your skin won't have the time it needs to become rejuvenated. Shoot for a bedtime of about 10 P.M. Your body gets its most restful sleep before the hour of midnight. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, see if you can't find ways to improve your sleep habits. Take some time to wind down before bed, put away the technology at bedtime, take a warm bath or drink a cup of tea. It's also a good idea to watch what you eat after a certain time. Eating sugary foods or foods that are high in carbohydrates can prevent your body from being able to fall asleep properly. Watching What We Eat The diets that we eat each day affect the quality of our skin. If you're making a habit of eating greasy and processed foods, you'll almost surely experience oily skin, breakouts and a dull complexion. People who make sure that they are eating a diet that focuses on plenty of fruits, veggies, lean protein, and whole grains will have the nutrients needed to have healthy skin. For people who are dealing with an unhealthy complexion, some foods tend to be very common triggers for people. This includes: Gluten Dairy Refined sugars Processed foods If you're having trouble with your skin and you think it's because of your diet, start a food journal to help you narrow down what the problem may be. Write down everything that you're eating. Write down any issues that you're having with your skin during that time. You might be able to figure out what you should avoid to prevent skin issues from taking place. Working Out Exercise is so important for our bodies to stay healthy. Working out regularly can help improve the tone of your skin. It can also minimize how oily or dry your skin is. You can even detoxify your skin by getting your sweat on. This is a great way to focus on cleansing your pores. Your skin will look younger when you are active. It's just very important that you get a good skincare routine going if you're going to be working out regularly. When you sweat, you can end up letting bacteria reside on your face and in your pores. This leads to breakouts if you don't wash away that sweat right away. Use a high-quality cleanser from our WODA skincare line right after you're done working out. Follow that up with a toner and moisturizer to keep your skin looking as healthy as possible. Try to work out without any makeup on your face since that could clog your pores as you sweat. Use Sunscreen with Zinc You must protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you're going to be heading out for a fun day in the sun, make sure that you bring your sunscreen along with you. Even if you aren't going to be outside for an extended period, you should apply a product with sunscreen in it to prevent damage from UV rays. Make sure that the product you choose has zinc in it. Zinc is a beneficial ingredient to use on your skin. You can utilize a WODA sunscreen product like our tinted facial moisturizer with SPF 40 in it. This is a product that will keep your skin healthy, hydrated and protected each day. You don't want to ever allow your skin to burn in the sun. This can lead to damaged skin that can be problematic for a lifetime. Take the necessary steps to keep your skin healthy and safe. Use Products That Are Rich in Anti-Oxidants to Fight Pollution You probably don't realize it, but your skin is coming in contact with pollution every day. This pollution comes from vehicles, nearby businesses, construction and so much more. All of these harmful chemicals can do a number on your skin. As part of your skincare routine, you should use products that have a lot of anti-oxidants in them. These anti-oxidants will help repair your skin and protect it from future damage. Our WODA vitamin C serum is made with gentle, calming, and all-natural ingredients that will help recreate that protective barrier on your skin. Just like how vitamin C will boost your immune system, vitamin C has the potential to boost how healthy your skin is. It will also help your skin remain healthy even after it comes into contact with pollution and other particulates that are harmful throughout the day. At any given moment during the day, you can be exposed to as many as 9,000 different pollutants. When your skin isn't healthy, this can allow all kinds of things to absorb into your skin and body. The more compromised and unhealthy you allow your skin to get, the more sensitive it may become. You can end up having more and more flare-ups if you aren't careful. It's incredibly important that you take the necessary steps to protect your skin. Making sure that protective barrier stays intact will help you feel good about yourself, help you look younger and look more radiant. If you are looking for some high-quality products that will help you maintain a beautiful complexion for years to come, visit our WODA website for more information. We have everything from cleansers to toners and SPF moisturizers. Ideally, you create a whole lineup of products for your skin type. It's important to remember that not all skincare products are one size fits all. Find the right products that will work with the type of skin that you have, and you can change your routine as you age or as your skin type changes. The Role of Hydration in Skin Health As an esthetician with over 25 years of experience, I cannot stress enough the importance of proper hydration for maintaining healthy skin. While using quality skincare products is essential, what you put into your body matters just as much as what you put on it. I recommend starting your day with a large glass of water and maintaining consistent hydration throughout the day. For optimal results, I suggest combining proper hydration with our Hydrate: Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This powerful serum helps your skin retain moisture while providing essential nutrients for a healthy glow. Creating a Consistent Skincare Routine The key to maintaining healthy skin is consistency. I always tell my clients that it's better to follow a simple routine regularly than to have an elaborate routine you can't maintain. Start with our Perfect 2-in-1 Cleanser to remove impurities without stripping your skin, followed by toning and moisturizing. For those looking to establish a complete skincare routine, I recommend exploring our Anti-Aging Collection. These products work together synergistically to support your skin's natural healing and renewal processes. Remember that healthy skin is a reflection of overall wellness. By combining these lifestyle choices with appropriate skincare products, you're not just investing in your appearance – you're investing in your health. Consider trying our Youth Elixir: Peptides & Stem Cell Serum to complement your healthy lifestyle choices and maximize your skin's natural potential. What matters most is finding a balance that works for you and staying committed to your skin health journey. With patience and consistency, you'll see the remarkable results that come from taking care of yourself both inside and out.

by Margaret Tomaszewicz

The Complete Guide to Understanding and Treating Hyperpigmentation Naturally

There are a number of reasons why hyperpigmentation occurs in the skin. There are diseases and ailments that can cause hyperpigmentation. Some of these health conditions include Cushing's disease, Graves' disease, and Nelson's syndrome. However, it's more common for people to experience hyperpigmentation due to many of the following factors. 1. Sun Exposure Sun exposure is the top reason why hyperpigmentation happens. Think about a person who goes tanning regularly. When they sit in the sun to tan, their intention is to get darker. That's the whole point. However, when you're in the sun, the sun doesn't know if you're tanning or not. You're going to get darker when you spend time in the sun rays. When your skin is exposed to the sun, it will impact any preexisting issues such as acne, previous scars and more. This is the main reason why SPF is so important. The sun activates the melanocytes in order to produce more melanin. 2. Acne and Incessant Picking Many people are tempted to pick and prod at their pimples. If it's not cared for correctly, the pimple-popping can really backfire by leaving a mark. If you don't have a proactive strategy for getting rid of your dark spots, this can lead to a breakdown in your self-esteem and confidence. Acne scars are never fun to look at in the mirror. In most cases, people pick at their acne because they want to see the acne bumps or pus go away. However, there's a way to handle it. 3. Melasma While there are men who experience the woes associated with melasma, it's typically common among women who are pregnant. While the bodies adjust to the increase and decrease of various hormones, many women end up with skin issues. Whether they deal with bad breakouts, rashes or hives, there are times when the aftermath leaves a trail. When pregnant women experience discoloration and itchy patches of hyperpigmentation, it's typically due to the pregnancy. With the right treatments, the melasma can go away. It's usually just a temporary discomfort. How Do You Prevent Hyperpigmentation? 1. Avoid Sun Exposure If you already know that you'll be spending a significant amount of time in the sun, it's best to protect your skin with SPF. It's best to wear SPF 30 at the very least. You'll want to wear more if you're going to be outside for a long time. However, it's best to wear SPF 30 on a daily basis. Even if the day looks cloudy and overcast, the sun is still doing its work. You have to protect your skin at all costs. Too often, people underestimate the damage the sun can really do to the skin. Skin cancer is a very real issue that can be deadly. 2. Leave Your Pimples Alone When it pertains to acne and picking the scars, you can definitely do some damage. The key is in knowing how to eliminate the acne. Whenever you see that a pimple is formed, consider the depth. If you can't see pus, a whitehead or a blackhead forming, leave the pimple alone. If you try to pop a pimple before it's ready, you'll end up creating more damage that leads to long-lasting hyperpigmentation. A pimple is typically ready for extraction when the pore is open enough to push any pus through. It's important to treat it methodically to avoid scarring. When you see that a pimple is seemingly ready for extraction, head to your shower. Once you've taken a shower, the steam will open your pores a bit more. This is why it's best to moisturize shortly after a shower. You want to lock in the moisture. Now, when your pores are open, use a warm washcloth or q-tips to pull the skin taut. You're going to pull the skin that's surrounding the pimple. While you'll want to pull it taut, it's essential that you do so gently. When you're not gentle, this can aggravate the skin and cause more damage. As you pull the skin taut, the pus will start to push through. Then, it's okay to gently push the skin surrounding the pimple in order to get more of the pus out. Once all of the pus is cleaned out of the infected area, use a benzoyl peroxide treatment as a topical treatment. There are plenty of effective, over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide treatments that will medicate the area and close up the pore. As you properly medicate the area, you're less likely to see scars because you handled the pimple with care and medicine. 3. Dealing with Melasma If you're dealing with melasma while you're pregnant, there isn't much you can do to change that. It's really about riding through the wave of pregnancy hormones. However, you can prevent the situation from worsening by limiting your access to the sun. A little Vitamin D is good for the body so it's still good to go outside. However, when you do, keep track of the time you're outside. Plus, wear a high SPF each time you're out there. When you're already dealing with the effects of melasma, it's all about making sure things don't get worse. Besides, once the pregnancy is over, you can start taking some medication to help the melasma dissipate if it doesn't do so on its own. How Do You Treat Hyperpigmentation? Truthfully, hyperpigmentation can be challenging to get rid of. It's also a different experience for those who have more melanin than others. While it might seem like a steep, uphill climb, consider the following ways you can actively work on treating your hyperpigmentation. 1. Wear SPF At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this tip can't be stressed enough. If you try to incorporate all of the other healing methods but skip SPF, the sun has the power to reverse all of your efforts. Always make sure you're wearing an SPF cream. It's even a wise idea to walk with an SPF spray that you can use to touch up every few hours. Many women purchase foundations and powders that have SPF in them. This is an excellent idea to consider as well. The more protection you have, the better off you'll be. 2. Exfoliate Regularly Gone are the days where people would scrub their skin with harsh scrubs in order to exfoliate. While this might be a nice method for your body, it's best to be extremely gentle with your facial exfoliation process because you want to avoid the possibilities of skin aggravation. Instead, you can exfoliate regularly by using a product that contains glycolic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids and/or beta-hydroxy acids. When you use acidic products on your skin, they will encourage skin cell turnover. Once you use the product long enough, the darker skin cells will eventually fall off. Bright, new skin cells will take their place. It's also an excellent idea to visit a dermatologist or an esthetician to receive professional-grade chemical peels if you'd like to experience a more intense yet quicker turnaround process. 3. Use the Right Products at Home It's always best to have a morning routine and a nighttime routine for your skin. In the morning, your moisturizer will consist of SPF. In the evening, you won't need SPF since you're going to bed. However, it's wise to incorporate the right serums at the right times. There are plenty of people who are under the school of thought that says it's not wise to use Vitamin C serums during the day. This is because the sunlight can counteract the power of Vitamin C which can irritate the skin. It's okay if you decide to use your Vitamin C serum at night. Just make sure it's a part of the process. Vitamin C serums are great for maintaining a bright, healthy glow. They can also help to speed up the process of eliminating hyperpigmentation. In addition to a Vitamin C serum, it's really good to find a serum and a cream that are specifically committed to eliminating the scars and discoloration. There are plenty of products that promise to do this. Unfortunately, very few products actually follow through on that promise. Thankfully, the WODA Skincare Luminous Brightening Creme and Radiant Brightening Serum can deliver results. Before you use these products, pick a test area on another part of your body to see how your skin reacts to it. Then, gradually incorporate the serum and the creme into your weekly routine. For optimal results in treating hyperpigmentation, I recommend our Dark Spot Skin Care Treatment Bundle, which combines our most effective brightening products. Our Age Defy: Vitamin C & Stem Cell Serum is particularly effective when used in conjunction with our brightening treatments, as it helps accelerate cell turnover and protect against further damage. Advanced Tips for Hyperpigmentation Management As someone who has helped countless clients overcome hyperpigmentation issues, I've learned that a multi-faceted approach yields the best results. One often overlooked aspect is internal health - your diet can significantly impact your skin's healing ability. Foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids can support your skin's natural repair processes. It's also crucial to understand that patience is key in treating hyperpigmentation. While some instant-gratification products promise quick results, true, lasting improvement typically takes 8-12 weeks of consistent treatment. During this time, it's essential to document your progress with photos taken in the same lighting conditions every few weeks. Remember that professional treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion can complement your at-home care routine. However, these should always be performed by qualified professionals who understand your skin type and concerns. Visit our serums collection to find professional-grade products that can enhance your treatment results. Stay committed to your skincare routine, protect your skin from the sun, and remember that every skin journey is unique. With the right combination of products and patience, you can achieve the even, radiant complexion you desire. To your skin's health! Margaret

by Margaret Tomaszewicz

The Essential Guide to Water: 10 Science-Backed Benefits for Your Health and Beauty

There are so many healthcare professionals who talk a lot about developing a consistent habit of drinking water. It might seem redundant and simple. However, it is one of the best habits you could ever develop for optimal health and beauty purposes. If you're not convinced, consider the following reasons why consistent water consumption is so essential and important. 1. Focus When it's time to wake up in the morning and be alert, too many people make the mistake of reaching for a cup of coffee to start the day. If you want to alert your brain to wake up and focus, the best beverage to consume is water. Because the brain is made of 73% water, it thrives when water is flowing. Whenever you have a headache or feel sluggish, it's not uncommon for people to recommend an increase in water intake. Headaches, fatigue and poor concentration are often associated with dehydration. Unfortunately, some people prefer a quick fix by taking a painkiller first. In reality, the painkiller is only putting a temporary bandage over a chronic issue. If you're currently struggling to focus at work or with different tasks throughout the day, change the tide by increasing your water consumption. If you consistently focus on drinking water throughout the day, you'll feel a lot better. If you must have your caffeine fix in the morning, drink two glasses of water to offset the way caffeine dehydrates your system. 2. Digestive Issues Water is directly linked to digestive issues like constipation. When you're not drinking enough water, you'll experience the discomfort involved with poor bowel movements and constipation. Plus, it's so important for your body to get rid of the waste in your digestive system. If your body doesn't get rid of the waste, it shows up in other places like your gut, your breath, and your skin. In addition to consuming more fiber, always make sure water is pushing everything through your digestive system to maintain a healthy and clean internal system. 3. Energy When you're sluggish and tired, you're unable to perform at your best levels. Instead of reaching for a protein bar or a bowl of oatmeal in the morning, start by drinking a glass of water. When you're consuming fewer calories through food, you'll give your body a better chance of burning more fat. When you burn more fat, you're carrying less fat on your body. This gives your body more energy to exert in other ways. When you have more energy, you'll be more productive, intentional and successful with the tasks in front of you. 4. Glowing Skin If you dream of leaving the house without pounds of makeup on your face, know that this is a dream that can become a reality with the consumption of more water. One of the reasons why so many people experience premature wrinkling is because the skin is dehydrated. Instead of drinking lots of coffee and alcohol, start consuming more water. If you struggle with acne and clogged pores, water can help with moving the toxins out of your body at a quicker pace. Even if you naturally have oily skin, dehydrated skin will trigger an increase in oil production. An increase in water consumption will decrease the chances of your skin's desire to overcompensate with more oil. While you're addressing your skin from an internal perspective, it's also good to address the skin's issues from a topical perspective. Using hydrating products like Hydrate: Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Serum will allow your skin to thrive. Hyaluronic acid is the star player. It hydrates and helps the skin hold moisture. This serum also contains power players like Vitamin C for cell turnover. 5. Weight Loss There are so many people who make the terrible assumption that they're hungry when in reality, they're thirsty. As a result, they consume calories that they don't need. The final result is that they're not satisfied, and they end up eating more. This leads to unnecessary weight gain. If you'd like to experience that svelte figure, the gym might not be the first visit you need to make. Before heading to the gym, head to your kitchen to consume a glass of water. When you drink water regularly, you'll feel satiated for a longer period of time. When you feel full, you'll tend to eat less. When you do eat, you don't need as much food to feel satisfied. If you want your waistline to go down, it is important to watch what you consume more than the amount of time you spend in the gym. However, it is even more important to make sure you're drinking lots of water. If you're feeling really hungry before or after a meal, get a cup of hot water. Add a lemon slice to that hot water. It will help you feel satisfied faster or curb a temporary craving. 6. Hangover Impact Though alcohol really isn't great for your body, it's understood that an occasional glass of wine or a cocktail will happen. As you get older, it becomes harder for your body to process alcohol without experiencing a terrible hangover. Some people try to eat bread to absorb the alcohol. Others try to consume greasy foods like fried chicken. However, one of the best ways to avoid an intense hangover is by drinking lots of water with your alcoholic beverage of choice. If you're going to have two glasses of wine, try your best to drink two to four glasses of water on the same night. This isn't to say you won't still have a hangover the next day. However, this is a great trick to help your body recover from a night of alcohol in a way that's bearable. 7. Kidney Function Think of your kidneys as your own personal filtration system. When you consume tons of sugar-filled drinks, your kidneys have to work so much harder to push the waste out of your system. When you drink more water, it gives your kidneys a break and makes you less likely to develop painful health issues like kidney stones. When your kidneys do their job, you'll be able to look at your urine to see how much water you still need to consume. If your urine is dark yellow, you are extremely dehydrated and need to drink a lot more water. However, if your water is clear, this is a sign that you've been vigilant about drinking water. Do your best to maintain a consistent flow of water throughout the day. You don't want to overwhelm your kidneys with too much water at once. It's also wise to know how much water your body needs. In order for your kidneys to function at optimal levels, it's best to consume half of your body weight in ounces. If you're 200 pounds, drink 100 ounces of water each day. 8. Joint Lubrication When a door squeaks and creaks, it's important to use a good lubricant to avoid further damage. If you've ever tried to hop out of bed and felt like it took a long time to fully stretch your body, this isn't just an aging issue. There are plenty of older people who can hop out of bed without major issues because they're intentional about drinking water. When your joints seem stiff and inflexible, this is a critical sign of dehydration. Your joints are made of cartilage. Cartilage is known to be 80% water. This means that water is the perfect lubricant for your joints. In addition to consistent stretching, exercise, and movement, you'll want to lubricate your joints with water consumption. If you don't, you'll experience dry, brittle bones that are easily susceptible to injury and bone issues. 9. Brain Function Your brain is your epicenter for thinking and reasoning. Your endocrine system houses your hormones, receptors and more. When you're unable to properly exercise your ability to think clearly and make sound decisions, you're in trouble. You'd be surprised how much you can damage your brain's ability to function by avoiding water. Because of the conversation within the culture, more people are aware of the importance of mental health. When a person experiences brain fog, it's often associated with depression or anxiety. However, it is important to include water consumption within the conversation. In many cases, people can eliminate the issues associated with brain fog by drinking more water and getting more rest. When studies are suggesting that dehydration can damage the brain's structure and ability to function, it's worth talking about. 10. Blood Pressure So many people talk about how terrible it is to have high blood pressure, but they don't know why. High blood pressure is dangerous because it forces your heart and blood vessels to work harder than they should. When this happens, it can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening illnesses. Just by drinking more water consistently, you can naturally lower your blood pressure. When water flows throughout the body, it will thin the blood in a way that relieves pressure. An interesting study highlights the importance of watching the rate at which you consume water. Don't chug it randomly and rapidly because the body is only able to absorb water at a slower pace. If you want to experience the benefits at a cellular level, it's best to focus on slow, consistency throughout the entire day. Think of your body as a sponge that's trying to absorb as much water as possible. The quest to drink more water isn't necessarily the easiest one. If you're not used to drinking a lot of water, the act can feel cumbersome. In order to adjust, consider purchasing one of those really large jugs that you can drink throughout the day. Add some citrus fruits to your water to make it more flavorful. It's also okay to eat your water in the form of watermelon, cucumbers and other water-rich foods. As you get into the habit of drinking more water, you'll crave it more. Before long, it'll be a lifestyle that you'll desire to maintain forever. Making Hydration a Daily Priority As an esthetician with decades of experience, I've seen firsthand how proper hydration transforms skin health. While drinking water is crucial for internal hydration, combining it with the right topical products maximizes benefits for your skin. I recommend pairing your hydration routine with our Age Defy: Vitamin C & Stem Cell Serum, which works synergistically with your body's natural hydration processes. For those struggling with dehydrated skin, our Super Moist Marine Complex Toner helps lock in moisture while balancing your skin's pH levels. Particularly during times of stress or seasonal changes, your skin may need extra support. Our Age Proof: Daily Crème from the Anti-Aging Collection provides deep hydration while supporting your skin's natural moisture barrier. Remember, consistency is key with both water intake and skincare. Start your morning with a glass of water before anything else, and keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day. Set reminders if needed, and gradually increase your intake until proper hydration becomes second nature. Your skin and overall health will thank you for making this simple yet powerful change.

by Margaret Tomaszewicz

The Ultimate Natural Skin Care Guide for Men: Building an Effective Daily Routine

Women tend to develop a pretty consistent skin care routine that they'll use on a daily basis to keep their skin healthy, fresh and youthful. It's important for men to develop this kind of routine as well. While the steps a man takes to care for his skin each day might be very different from what a woman will focus on, the goals tend to be the same. Everyone wants to have healthy skin, prevent breakouts, treat problem areas and keep their skin looking young even as they age. In this article, we will talk about the benefits of a skin care routine for men, what some of the best products are and what you should consider when coming up with a routine for the first time. A lot of skin care products on the market contain very harsh chemicals that will end up doing more harm than good. While these products might help your skin at first, you could be damaging your skin irreversibly. There are some ingredients and components that you'll want to incorporate into your daily routine. Let's take a closer look. Skin Care Ingredients to Look For Salicylic Acid This is a fantastic ingredient that is used in the majority of acne products on the market. Salicylic acid has the potential to soak deep down into your pores and treat a blemish right at the root of the cause. Even at a low dose, salicylic acid can shrink down pimples and acne in a very short amount of time. It is relatively gentle, so you don't have to worry about it drying out your skin or making it appear very red and raw. Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid is something that the body makes naturally, but you can apply a product to your skin that contains it as a way to tighten and firm up the skin. It's a very common anti-aging ingredient. If you're a smoker or someone who doesn't live a very healthy lifestyle, your body probably isn't making enough of this acid. Retinol Retinol is made from Vitamin A, and it has the ability to produce more collagen in the skin. This leads to a more youthful appearance. You can quickly get rid of unwanted wrinkles and fine lines. Not to mention, you can prevent more from occurring. This is an ingredient found in many moisturizers and toners, but there are many cleansers on the market that utilize retinol in their makeup. Natural Ingredients to Look For in Skin Care Products Coconut Oil This is a very versatile ingredient that has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antioxidant properties. You can use coconut oil on its own, but it's also a very common ingredient in many skin care products. It can heal the skin, strengthen it and even fade scars. Tea Tree Oil Tea tree oil can be used on blemishes, dry patches of skin, eczema and other problematic areas. It works well to reduce redness and prevent infection. It also functions as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-fungal. You'll usually find tea tree oil in spot treatments or toners. It's a great ingredient that you'll often find in hair products as well. Aloe Vera Aloe has been used for centuries to heal burns and cuts. It is an excellent tool to use for hydrating and nourishing the skin. People have been known to keep an aloe plant in their home so they can break off a piece and use it when necessary. Tons of skin care products contain aloe vera since this is such a soothing compound to have on hand. Best Skin Care Products for Men It's important to have a good repertoire of products on hand in order to keep your skin looking its best. You may need to try a few different things to find what works best for you, but it is important that you don't give up. Look for products that tailor to your specific skin condition. There are products for dry skin, oily skin, normal skin, and combination skin. Totally Coconut Foaming Cleanser Foaming cleansers are nice because they work up to a nice lather and they rinse off really well. You can use this Totally Clean Coconut Foaming Cleanser during the process of shaving your face. It will help prevent clogged pores or breakouts that you typically experience. Clear Skin Toner You can use the Clear Skin Toner as an aftershave to soothe the skin and prevent bumps on the skin caused by shaving. Toners are great if you have oily skin. You'll notice that your skin stays hydrated without becoming too greasy. The goal of using a toner is really to balance the pH of your skin, hydrate it and keep your pores clean. Magic Bamboo and Charcoal Mask It's a good idea to have some products as part of your daily skin care routine that aren't used each day. Rather, they are occasional products that you would use once or twice per week. You can use this Magic Bamboo and Charcoal Mask to exfoliate dead skin from your face and prevent ingrown hairs that can occur from daily shaving. It doesn't take long to apply, and you can wash it off after just a few minutes of treatment. WODA Non-Tinted Mineral Protectant SPF 40 Sunscreen It's important that you use a sunscreen throughout the year. Even when the snow is flying, the sun can greatly affect the quality of your skin. Our WODA Non-Tinted Sunscreen can be used to prevent skin cancer safely by way of a zinc oxide product. Not only will it protect you from the sun, but it also helps hydrate and soothe your skin. Nourishing Peptide Eye Créme If you're constantly at work staring at a computer screen, you may have noticed that your eyes are looking a little tired. You may even have wrinkles popping up. Men can take the steps necessary to prevent aging as well. This Nourishing Peptide Eye Créme can prevent and treat fine lines around your eyes. It even contains a zinc oxide sunscreen which is great to use around the thin and sensitive skin around your eyes. Best Skin Care Routines for Men Your skin care routine doesn't have to be really time-consuming and involved. In fact, you can use a few quick products to cleanse, hydrate and protect on a daily basis. Your skin will look better than it ever has. A.M. Skin Care Routine When you wake up in the morning, you can use a cleanser to get rid of any dirt and oil that has accumulated overnight. If you used any products while you slept, you'll be able to remove those and start fresh for the day. You can follow up with a toner after you have shaved. A moisturizer and sunscreen are other great products to use daily in the morning hours as part of your routine. They will help protect your skin from free radicals, pollution and so much more. P.M. Skin Care Routine At the end of the day, this is when you should clean your face again, and you can use products to treat blemishes, dry patches, etc. You can use a toner to treat your skin or balance out the levels of hydration. Use a moisturizer and an eye cream before you head to bed. When you sleep, this is the time when your skin will do the most healing. Help it along with some great products that you feel comfortable having on your skin all night. Best Facials for Men Periodically, you should use various facial products to keep your skin exfoliated and hydrated. It's even more beneficial to head to a local spa to have a facial done for you. European Skin Care and Massage Studio has created a specialty men's facial treatment that will tailor to skin issues that the majority of men face. It focuses on deep pore cleansing, hydration, and a relaxing face and neck massage. Best Skin Care Advice for Men When you are developing a good skin care routine, you should focus on the types of products that you want to invest in. It's important for a lot of people to adhere to a budget when they're investing in skin care products, but the quality of the products you use really does count. You don't have to purchase dozens of different products. Invest your money in a really good cleanser, toner and moisturizer to get you started. Sunscreen is a great addition that will help prevent any signs of premature aging and skin damage. Don't feel like you can't have a skin care routine set for yourself just because you're a man. Women aren't the only ones that should be paying attention to the quality of their skin. Everyone wants to look young and have healthy skin. Address issues that you're having with your skin and develop a skin care routine that will work for you and your budget. Advanced Tips for Men's Skin Care Success As an esthetician with over 25 years of experience, I've noticed that men often overlook certain aspects of skin care that can make a significant difference. Beyond the basic routine, here are some professional insights that can elevate your skin care game: First, consider your shaving technique. Many men experience irritation and ingrown hairs because they shave against the grain or use dull razors. I recommend using our Perfect 2-in-1 Cleanser as a pre-shave treatment to soften the hair and protect your skin. Always shave in the direction of hair growth and replace your razor regularly. Environmental factors also play a crucial role in men's skin health. If you're active outdoors or work in construction, your skin faces additional challenges from sun exposure and environmental pollutants. Our Age Defy: Vitamin C & Stem Cell Serum provides powerful antioxidant protection against these elements while promoting cellular renewal. Diet and lifestyle choices significantly impact your skin's appearance. Many men don't realize that post-workout skincare is essential - sweating can lead to clogged pores and breakouts if not properly addressed. Browse our Anti-Aging Skin Care Collection for products that help maintain skin health during and after physical activity. Remember, consistency is key with any skincare routine. Start with the basics we've discussed, and gradually incorporate additional products as needed. Your skin will thank you for the investment in its health, and you'll notice the difference in both appearance and comfort.

Skin Care Advice

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