As temperatures drop and winter sets in, your skin often feels the effects first. Cold outdoor air, low humidity, and dry indoor heat can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, and irritated. Adjusting your skincare routine during the winter months is essential to maintain healthy, hydrated, and balanced skin. Here are Vivoderm’s winter skincare secrets to help protect and nourish your skin all season long.

1. Hydration Starts From Within

One of the simplest yet most overlooked winter skincare tips is staying hydrated. Even if you don’t feel as thirsty in colder weather, your body—and your skin—still needs water. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity, supports natural barrier function, and prevents dryness from the inside out. Pair proper hydration with nourishing skincare for best results.

2. Add Moisture Back Into the Air

Indoor heating systems can significantly reduce humidity levels, contributing to dry, uncomfortable skin. Using a humidifier in your home or bedroom can help restore moisture to the air, preventing excessive water loss from your skin. This small change can make a noticeable difference, especially if you wake up with dry or tight skin.

3. Choose a Gentle, Moisturizing Cleanser

During winter, harsh or foaming cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness and sensitivity. Opt for a mild, moisturizing cleanser that cleans effectively without disrupting your skin’s protective barrier. The Vivoderm Chamomile Cream Cleanser is an ideal winter choice, as it gently removes impurities and makeup while soothing and hydrating the skin. Gentle cleansing helps maintain balance and prepares your skin to better absorb hydrating products.

4. Moisturize on Damp Skin

Timing matters when it comes to moisturizing. Applying your moisturizer immediately after bathing or washing your face—while your skin is still slightly damp—helps lock in moisture. Follow cleansing with Vivoderm Facial Toner, formulated with antioxidant-rich green tea and grapeseed, to balance the skin and prep it for moisture. Sealing in hydration at this stage improves the effectiveness of your moisturizer and keeps skin soft and supple throughout the day.

5. Switch to a Rich, Nourishing Moisturizer

Winter weather calls for a richer moisturizer. Look for formulas with nourishing, skin-loving ingredients that help strengthen the skin barrier and provide long-lasting hydration. Vivoderm Intense Moisturizer is especially beneficial for very dry or dehydrated skin, featuring soothing botanicals like chamomile, aloe vera, comfrey, and antioxidant rosemary. For daily hydration, Vivoderm Intense Moisturizer and Anti Wrinkle Eye Cream helps replenish moisture while protecting the skin from cold air and harsh winds.

6. Exfoliate—But Don’t Overdo It

Exfoliation remains an important step in winter skincare, as it removes dead skin cells that can cause dullness and block product absorption. Gentle exfoliation allows moisturizers and serums to penetrate more effectively. The Vivoderm Anti-Aging Facial Mask is a great winter option, helping to gently exfoliate while nourishing and revitalizing the skin for a smoother, brighter appearance. However, be careful not to over-exfoliate, as winter skin is more prone to irritation. Once or twice a week is usually enough.

Final Thoughts

Winter skincare doesn’t have to be complicated—it just requires a few thoughtful adjustments. By staying hydrated, protecting your skin from dry air, choosing gentle products, and prioritizing moisture, you can keep your skin healthy, comfortable, and glowing all winter long. At Vivoderm Natural Skincare, our time-tested formulas—developed by holistic dermatologist Dr. H. Adhami—are designed to nourish and support your skin through every season, especially during the colder winter months.

End-of-Summer Skin Recovery: How to Repair and Refresh Your Skin Naturally

Summer is winding down, but your skin might still be showing signs of all that fun in the sun — dryness, redness, breakouts, or a dull, uneven tone. Even if you were diligent with sunscreen, your skin barrier may still need some extra love and recovery before fall sets in.

Now is the perfect time to press the reset button with a targeted end-of-summer skincare routine that restores hydration, calms irritation, and strengthens your skin barrier — naturally.

At Vivoderm Natural Skincare, we believe in repairing and protecting your skin with herbal, vitamin-rich, and soothing ingredients — never harsh chemicals or fillers. Here’s how to get your glow back, naturally.

1. Rehydrate Your Skin Deeply

Vivoderm Intense Moisturizer 2 for mature or dry skin

Why it matters:
Prolonged sun exposure, chlorine from pools, and even air conditioning can all strip your skin of essential moisture. Without proper hydration, your skin barrier weakens, leading to flakiness, fine lines, and a dull appearance.

Your solution:
Our Intense Moisturizer delivers deep, nourishing hydration with a lightweight, non-greasy formula. Packed with aloe vera, vitamin E, and botanical extracts, it soothes and replenishes dry, stressed skin while helping to restore your natural glow.

Tip: Apply to damp skin right after cleansing to lock in extra moisture.

2. Repair and Protect the Delicate Eye Area

Why it matters:
The skin around your eyes is thinner and more vulnerable to environmental stressors like sun, wind, and salt water. After a season outdoors, you may notice puffiness, fine lines, or dryness around this delicate area.

Your solution:
Our Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream is infused with natural oils, herbs, and vitamins that target signs of aging while deeply hydrating. This rich yet gentle formula smooths and revitalizes tired eyes — perfect for morning and nighttime use.

3. Soothe and Calm Redness

Why it matters:
Even with sunscreen, your skin may still be feeling the effects of sun and heat exposure — think lingering redness, sensitivity, or irritation. Calming your skin helps speed up recovery and prevents long-term damage.

Your solution:
Our Zinc Repairing Facial Cream combines zinc oxide for natural protection with chamomile and comfrey to soothe inflammation and irritation. It’s perfect for calming stressed skin and even works well for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.

4. Transition Your Routine for Fall

Why it matters:
As the weather cools and humidity drops, your skin’s needs change. Preparing your skin now helps prevent seasonal dryness and keeps your glow intact well into fall.

Simple adjustments:

• Swap lightweight lotions for richer creams to keep moisture in.

• Keep gentle cleansing to avoid stripping your barrier.

• Continue using daily SPF — yes, even in cooler months!

Your Post-Summer Skincare Reset

Your skin deserves the same love you gave your summer adventures. With a few small adjustments and the right products, you can restore balance, calm irritation, and keep your glow strong into the new season.

Explore Vivoderm’s End-of-Summer Essentials and bring your skin back to life — naturally.    Shop now, here on our website OR on Amazon!

Zinc Oxide: The Mineral Powerhouse in Skincare and Sun Protection
Exploring the UV benefits of this multitasking skin protectant

Zinc oxide is one of the most effective and multifunctional ingredients used in dermatology—and it’s also a star component in our Vivoderm Zinc Repairing Facial Cream. While this cream is not an FDA-registered sunscreen, it contains 30% Zinc Oxide, which offers significant natural UV protection and skincare benefits.

Let’s break down what makes zinc oxide such a powerful player in modern skincare and why it deserves a spot in your daily routine.

A Closer Look at Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide is one of only two mineral (physical) sunscreen actives approved for use in the U.S. (the other being titanium dioxide). As a mineral UV filter, zinc oxide is recognized for its ability to provide broad-spectrum protection—shielding skin from both UVB and the full range of UVA rays (UVA I & II). This makes it the most complete UV filter available worldwide.

While the maximum allowed concentration in U.S. and EU sunscreens is 25%, Vivoderm’s cream uses 30% zinc oxide for its skin-soothing and protective properties—not as a regulated sunscreen, but as a natural shield and repair aid for compromised or sensitive skin.

How It Works: Absorption, Not Just Reflection

Zinc oxide is often described as a physical blocker that “reflects” UV light like a mirror. While that’s partly true, research shows that it primarily works by absorbing UV radiation and converting it to heat—just like chemical sunscreens. A 2016 study published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine confirmed this mechanism, debunking the myth that mineral filters only reflect light ¹.

This ability to absorb UV while remaining gentle and non-irritating makes zinc oxide an ideal choice for sensitive skin and post-treatment care.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

Sunscreen filters are generally divided into two categories: mineral (physical) and chemical. The main distinction lies in how they interact with UV rays.

Mineral sunscreens, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on top of the skin and were traditionally thought to reflect UV rays. However, research has shown that they actually absorb most UV radiation and convert it to heat, much like their chemical counterparts. These filters are inorganic compounds and are less likely to irritate the skin, making them ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types.

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use organic compounds like avobenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene. These filters penetrate the upper layers of the skin and absorb UV rays, then disperse them as heat. While often more cosmetically elegant (they tend to go on clear and feel lighter), some chemical filters can cause irritation or allergic reactions in certain individuals.

For many, the choice between mineral and chemical sunscreen comes down to skin sensitivity, aesthetic preferences, and level of UV protection needed. Zinc oxide, as a mineral filter, stands out because it provides broad-spectrum coverage, is non-irritating, and is recognized as safe and effective by global health authorities.

Let me know if you’d like to emphasize this comparison more visually, like with a table or bulleted list!

Skin-Calming and Protective Perks

Man Applying Protective Sunscreen On Woman Tanned Shoulder At Beach.

Beyond sun defense, zinc oxide is a skin protectant officially recognized by the FDA. You’ll find it in:

• Diaper rash creams
• Calamine lotion
• Anti-itch and healing balms

It offers astringent properties that help calm redness, reduce oiliness, and support healing—especially helpful for acne-prone or irritated skin. These qualities are key benefits of our Zinc Repairing Facial Cream, which uses zinc oxide not just for its UV filtering ability but for its reparative action on dry, inflamed, or damaged skin.

The White Cast Tradeoff

The downside? Higher concentrations of zinc oxide can lead to the infamous white cast—a chalky residue that’s more noticeable on deeper skin tones. That’s why many cosmetic formulators opt for nano zinc oxide, which helps reduce this effect. However, concerns about nanoparticles have led to ongoing discussions about their safety (though current data does not show significant risk).

Is Zinc Oxide Safe?

Yes. In fact, zinc oxide is one of only two sunscreen ingredients classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA ². It’s unlikely to trigger allergic reactions, unlike some chemical filters, and its long-standing use in dermatological products makes it a trusted option for daily skin support.

Final Thoughts

While Vivoderm Zinc Repairing Facial Cream is not a sunscreen, its 30% zinc oxide content provides a layer of natural environmental defense and skin protection. Think of it as a daily recovery shield—especially beneficial for sensitive, acne-prone, or post-procedure skin.

For full sun protection, we recommend layering your skincare with a broad-spectrum SPF, or choosing a hybrid sunscreen that combines both mineral and chemical filters for optimal protection and wearability.

SOURCES

Ekstein, Samuel F., and Sara Hylwa. “Sunscreens: A Review of UV Filters and Their Allergic Potential.” Dermatitis, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1097/der.0000000000000963

Footnotes

What ARE Peptides?

Peptides are short chain amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. In skincare, peptides are used to promote skin health and improve skin appearance. Natural peptides in skincare are derived from various sources, including plants, marine organisms, and natural fermentation processes. These peptides are bioactive molecules that help improve skin elasticity, repair, and hydration.

When looking for skincare products with natural peptides, check the ingredient list for terms like “hydrolyzed protein,” “peptide extract,” or the specific plant, marine, or dairy source used. Vivoderm’s herbal-based formulations, like our Herbal Facial Masks – include such natural wheat, fish and milk peptides as well as enzymes, to promote skin health while maintaining an all-natural approach.

We also include natural fish oils as peptides in our Intense Moisturizer and Eye Cream!

Benefits of Peptides in Skincare: 

Stimulate Collagen Production:

Peptides can signal the skin to produce more collagen, which is a protein that provides structure and elasticity. This can help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and improve skin firmness.

Enhance Skin Elasticity:

Peptides can support the production of elastin, another protein that contributes to skin elasticity. This can help prevent sagging and improve skin tone.

Protect Skin from Damage:

Some peptides have antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from environmental stressors, such as UV radiation and pollution.

Promote Wound Healing:

Peptides can stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, which can help reduce inflammation and scarring.

Improve Skin Hydration:

Certain peptides can attract and retain moisture, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple.

Types of Peptides Used in Skincare:

Signal Peptides: These peptides send signals to the skin to produce specific proteins, such as collagen and elastin.

Carrier Peptides: These peptides carry nutrients and other beneficial ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin.

Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides: These peptides prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin.

Here are some common sources of natural peptides: 

Plant-Based Peptides 

– Soy Peptides: Derived from soy proteins, they help promote collagen production and improve skin elasticity.

– Rice Peptides: Extracted from rice proteins, they are known for soothing and hydrating the skin.

– Wheat Peptides: Found in hydrolyzed wheat protein, these peptides support skin barrier repair and hydration.

Marine-Derived Peptides 

– Algae and Seaweed Extracts: Rich in bioactive peptides, these ingredients help enhance skin hydration and firmness.

– Fish Collagen Peptides: Hydrolyzed from fish collagen, they support skin regeneration and elasticity.

Natural Fermentation 

– Probiotic Peptides: Generated from the fermentation of natural bacteria like *Lactobacillus*, these peptides can strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.

Bee Products 

– Royal Jelly Peptides: Found in royal jelly, these peptides offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping rejuvenate the skin.

Milk and Dairy 

– Casein and Whey Peptides: Derived from milk proteins, they support skin hydration and elasticity.

When choosing skincare products with peptides, consider the specific types of peptides used and their potential benefits needed for your particular skin type.

Do you hate to look at the mirror anymore because what you see doesn’t reflect the face your remember? You are not alone. Many men and women have reported significant changes in their facial features and skin elasticity after the age of 40. Struggling with tired and wrinkled eyes and sagging skin doesn’t have to be a permanant condition. Starting off

Vivoderm Natural Anti Wrinkle Eye Cream

with a daily skin care routine and adding a natural eye cream to blast those wrinkles can be a few simple steps away.  For some, finding an anti wrinkle eye cream that is effective can be like finding a needle in a haystack. This is the very reason why most women (and men) these days are opting for medical treatments such as botox and chemical peels to get rid of wrinkles fast.

However, the chemical treatments do have their side effects and the cost is beyond the reach of many. Moreover, with time many women and men have now understood the importance of using natural skin care products and taking care of their skin and body to prevent unnecessary invasive treatments. Although, the market is flooded with different under eye creams, they hardly live up to their claims. It has been proven in many outside studies, that these commercial products for aimed at treating wrinkles and dark circles are little to no good at all.

So, if you are in search of a rich, anti wrinkle cream that is truly effective and made from 100% natural ingredients then you should definitely try out Vivoderm’s anti wrinkle eye cream. The Vivoderm anti wrinkle eye cream is infused with natural wrinkle-busting moisturizers like sweet almond oil, coconut oil and omega 3’s along with Vitamins A and E. Beta Carotene, the primary ingredient, is also a natural skin healer and wrinkle reducer. Natural herbs, like lavender help boost your skin’s immune reponse along with healing Aloe Vera. It helps to hydrate, protect and repair the skin dramatically. Using it regularly you will be able to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles under your eyes.

The skin around your eyes is soft, thin and very susceptible to stress and harmful effects of the environment. Hence, it requires special care from you. So do yourself a favor, forgo all those dangerous laser treatments and chemical peels and  treat yourself to a natural eye cream solution today.

Nowadays we are bombarded with skin care products that claim to offer brilliant results of renewls and rejuveination. However, most of these products often come with a hefty price tag. But, sometimes a simple product with natural ingredients can also work wonders for you. Lavender is such a plant which if present in your facial creams and body lotions can be extremely beneficial. It belongs to the mint family and has been used for centuries around the world as a makor healing and antimicrobial herb.

Lavender is an excellent healing herb

Lavender has many well known uses among herbalists and one of them is rejuvenating cells. The oil from this plant also has many wonderful rehydrating properties that make your skin fresh and revitalized. Lavender is a great essential oil that comes with a sweet scent. Lavender oil present in any skin care products can prevent scarring. You can also use this element for soothing sunburns. Oncce in a ltion or cream base, it adds wonderfully to the moisturizing effects that help in skin nourishment. Lavender helps in treating psoriasis and eczema too. It also has healing effects that reduces your itching and pain that these skin conditions can bring on. So you see, Lavender really is a wonder herb!

Vivoderm, a skin care brand that offers only natural skin care products uses lavender in their anti-wrinkle eye creams and facial masks. These masks and facial creams are very beneficial for your skin because they are infused with vitamins, minerals and exotic herbs to aid in the benefical properties of lavender. The eye cream especially is ideal for the soft skin around the eyes. It helps to soften down imperfections and lines and prevents the appearance of future wrinkles. By using a natural eye cream regularly, you will deliver a moisture boost to the skin around the eyes and look years younger.

Zinc Oxide Creams or Moisturizers are some of the newer trends in the skincare market today. One of the most beneficial creams to keep in your home, the first thing that will come to your mind is the zinc oxide sunscreens that help in absorbing and blocking the dangerous ultra-violet rays of the sun. This non-toxic sunscreen is often used by lifeguards. But did you know it is also beneficial for preventing acne and rosacea?

Zinc is a natural antibacterial agent that prevents the buildup of bacteria and helps to fight acne. This helps in reduction of excess oil production and removes the toxins in your skin. Zinc oxide creams are also used by many mothers for the prevention of diaper rash. It has versatile usability like treating minor cuts and dandruff and other skin related issues.

Zinc generally has a natural SPF factor of 15.  The Vivoderm Zinc Repairing Facial Cream for instance, also contains many anti-oxidant properties that help in taking care of your skin, like Comfrey, Chamomile, Vitamin A and E. The zinc cream moisturizer maintains the moisture of the skin and reduces the signs of aging. The creams available in the market can be purchased under various brands. You can use zinc repairing creams at morning and evening. Individuals with normal to oily skin are recommended to use these natural creams.

Those with dry skin have to be very careful during the winter months. Winter can be harsh on dry and sensitive skin. Due to the sudden change of temperature and lack of humidity, the skin loses its moisture pretty quickly. Hence, the skin needs special care during this time of the year.

Choose products that provide you nourishment and hydration. Keep skin clean and free from pore-clogging sweat and dirt. Use lukewarm water when you are taking shower. This ensures that natural oils in the skin do not get stripped away. Use products during your bath that comes with a neutral pH index. Avoid using soaps that are colored or fragrant as they tend to contain more chemicals than emollients.

It is hard to find anyone who does not want the best, facial skin they can have. And because, your face is the first thing one notice’s in your overall appearance, many look for consitent ways to keep it fresh and glowing.

Today, there are many ways following which one can maintain a healthy appearance. Of these, the herbal facial treatments have garnered much fame. Thanks to the tiresome research of recent expert skin care analysts, these herbal facial treatments are a great way to rejuvenate yourself and help you look and feel younger.

Taking appropriate care of your skin is very important. As your face represents the outlook of your appearance you always need to keep it fresh and glowing. There are a variety of treatments which you can opt for to clean your face and provide it with a refreshing look. Herbal facial treatments have attained global popularity due to the effective results which they provide. All these treatments have been researched by the experts and found to bring a great feeling of relaxation. Your face gets a rejuvenated look and your appearance stays young as ever.

Vivoderm has recently started holiday promotions and now we are offering 20% off on all single Vivoderm Skincare items from Feb 1 – Feb 14th.  If you haven’t tried Vivoderm yet, or have been watching your wallet, now is a great time to try out an Intense Moisturizer or Anti-Aging Facial Mask you might have had your eye on.

If your special someone loves natural skincare, suprise them this year with a special gift instead of flowers and candy.

Check out the Vivoderm website storefront for details. 🙂  http://02adda8.netsolstores.com/index.aspx

General product information here: https://vivoderm.com/products

Aging is a normal process of life and the evidence of aging shows on our skin. As we age skin begins to thin, dry and dull due to slow cell turn over. New skin cells do not grow as quickly, resulting in thinning skin. As a result, dead skin cells shed less quickly making the appearance of the skin dull and dry. Collagen and elastin-the system of fibers that make skin firm and elastic-begin to break down, resulting in sagging and wrinkles. Pigmentation is more prominent as we age when melanocytes, (which produce skin pigment) begin to produce irregularly. Research has shown there are two different factors in aging; intrinsic or internal and extrinsic or external.

Natural Facial Skin Care

Intrinsic aging, the natural course of aging, has to do with genes and inheritance. Natural aging begins at birth; however, signs of aging begin to appear on the skin in our mid 20’s. Intrinsic aging includes slower cell turn over, and less collagen production. Elastin begins to break down which acts like a rubber band enabling our skin to stretch and snap back. Visible signs of intrinsic skin aging include fine lines, loss of suppleness, dry and thin skin.

Extrinsic aging are the external factors that age the skin. These include sun exposure, health and diet, gravity, sleeping positions, smoking, drinking and even facial expressions. External factors cause premature aging to the skin and can become visible rather quickly.

While intrinsic factors are mostly uncontrollable, fortunately, extrinsic aging is controllable. Skin aging is a normal process however, premature aging of the skin can be prevented. A healthy lifestyle, yearly physical exams and topical care of the skin can prevent premature aging. A healthy, active life style will create healthy, strong skin from the outside in, preventing premature aging. Physical exams may catch early signs of skin damage that then can be treated. Topical skin care allows the skin to absorb ingredients through topical products that aid in building the epidermis and dermal layers of skin, the skin that is and will become visible. Topical care includes skin care products such as cleansers, moisturizers, serums and sunscreens.

Cleansing and toning

To prevent premature aging is to treat your skin as one of a kind. There are many different skin types, meaning what one person is doing to take care of their skin is not necessarily what you need to be doing to treat your skin. However, the most important products to aid in preventing premature aging are cleansers, exfoliates, moisturizers with hydrators and sunscreens. Cleansers will cleanse the skin clearing excess oil, dirt and debris. Exfoliates will slough off dead skin, deep clean pores and result in smoother more even skin tone. Moisturizers with hydrators will keep the skin supple and moist, while sunscreen will help to protect the skin from sun damage. It is also important to consider skin care products that include essential oils and antioxidants to help fight off free radicals that can further damage skin cells. Always consult a dermatologist before starting any skin care routine.

By Tiffany Oney

Tiffany Oney is a licensed esthetician, professional makeup artist and natural skincare authority. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies California State University, Long Beach and interning with Vivoderm Natural Skincare in Los Angeles, California.

And for clearer, younger looking skin, your anti aging skin care range of products should contain more natural active ingredients than any other “drug-store” brand, so be sure to read those labels carefully. Those ingredients like Aloe Vera, Almond Oil, Cocoa Butter, and Shea Butter are effective moisturizers, because they penetrate deeply to “nourish” the skin. So, they never feel greasy and come from natural sources less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Also be aware to shop for natural products that report no negative or adverse effects. Skin care prodcuts that are hypo-allergenic, fragrance free and can be used on any skin-type are best.

• Is your skin easily damaged or irritated?
• Is your skin dry, delicate and prone to irritant or allergic reactions?
• Does your skin have a reduced tolerance to cold, heat, wind, temperature changes, or pollution?

If you answer yes to any or all of these questions, consider yourself a member of the “sensitive skin” club to which 56 per cent of Canadian women claim to belong. Of this group, more than 46 per cent also have dry skin.

What is sensitive skin?

Generally if you have easily irritated or reactive skin, then you have ‘sensitive skin’. Most of the time sensitive skin relates to the face. Sensitive skin can be caused by a genetic predisposition or environmental factors. It appears as a redness, a swelling, itchy and dry irritation to the face. One of the major jobs of the skin is to waterproof. This is done to the epidermis or surface layer of the skin, producing a fat-protein sandwich that is always being replaced and is vital to prevent too much water loss from the skin.

Symptoms of sensitive skin include:

• A tingling or tightening of the skin without visible signs
• “Overreaction” to skin care or cosmetic products
• Reactions to shaving, or other physical stress to the skin

Sensitive skin can also be a heads-up for other conditions, such as:

• Altered skin — due to shaving, waxing, medications or heat, cold, wind, and pollution. Also, laser or chemical peels or scar removal
• Allergic skin – the sudden appearance of redness or swelling and itchiness
• Atopic skin – dry skin that is itchy and produces eczema. Eczema is related to hayfever and asthma. (see Eczema Guide for more information)
• Rosacea skin – blood vessels of the face enlarge resulting in a flushed sensation or a redness of the skin

What to do about your skin?

• Perfume or scented creams can be irritating.
• Rinse well after using cleansing products, which should be mild and soap-free as they do not remove so much oil from the skin (www.MildCleanser.ca gives you more information about this kind of cleansers)
• Use a moisturizer and sunscreen that is formulated for sensitive skin
• Don’t over wash your face. Temperature of the water should be tepid; neither hot or cold
• Don’t use exfoliants
• Be aware of seasonal temperatures. The sudden dryness of winter can mean itchy, dry skin until the skin responds by increasing oil production to reduce the water loss
• For breakouts use a cleanser with salicylic acid to help exfoliate pores. There are also moisturizers that contain salicylic acid

Be sensitive to stress

The causes and effects of stress on the body are not fully known, but for some people stress interferes with the body’s systems that repair and regulate the skin. Stress kills your natural antioxidant defenses, which help to prevent accelerated aging of the skin. Hormones can also trigger a histamine release within the skin causing it to erupt in bumpy redness, or breakout in hives.

Desensitize yourself

When choosing makeup, especially foundation and blush, buy oil-free products. Makeup that is water-based won’t clog pores. Look for oil-absorbing foundations that help keep oil off the face.

As for the rest of your body, check ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals in soaps, shampoos, body cleansers and creams, bath oils, bubble baths, etc.

Put your best face forward

• Watch your alcohol intake, spicy foods and caffeine
• Try to avoid excessive temperature changes
• Use the right cleansers, moisturizers and cosmetics
• Manage stress as best you can

By Richard Thomas, MD, FRCPC

The secret to proper facial cleansing and radiant skin is to get rid of any dead cells and toxins not thrown off naturally by the skin; remove all makeup, dirt, grime and chemical pollutants; clear out clogged pores and eliminate infection-causing bacteria without stripping away the skin’s natural oils and hydration.

Most facial care products-cleansers, masks and scrubs, dry the skin and alter its PH balance, causing skin to become more alkaline. In fact, advertisers have led us to believe the best facial products are the ones that make the most suds or leave a ‘squeaky-clean’ sensation. In principal, this result sounds good, especially if you have oily skin, but in fact the body always seeks to normalize itself – that is to balance and heal – so when we remove the skin’s oil content, it responds by making more oil to compensate for the loss.

If we dry the skin too much, it will produce excessive amounts of oil that may exacerbate an existing acne condition. Of course, if you have dry skin already, you do not want to make it drier. If you have sensitive skin, you do not want to irritate it further with harsh chemicals and soaps.

Herbal clay masks have been found to do wonders for the skin – naturally. The herbs act as a gentle scrub to clear away the dirt, toxins, pollutants and dead skin cells, but they do not strip away the necessary moisture in the skin. At the same time, they are balancing, nutritive, healing and totally free of toxic ingredients.

For deeper exfoliation, experts recommend herbal masks at least once or twice a week.
The skin sheds cells at a rate of one million per hour, so it is important to do a mild exfoliation daily. A that rate, it takes the skin about one month to completely regenerate itself and the herbal mask, “peels” away the old cells, so new ones can grow. The dead cells are also the top protective layer of the skin, however, and if we remove too much too soon, we leave the new cell growth unprotected. If the cells are not growing in at the rate we remove them, skin problems will develop.

An herbal facial mask can perform wonders on dry, oily, flaky, or just plain tired skin without damaging the renewing skin cells. Before setting out to purchase a facial mask first, ask yourself what you want to fix or change about your complexion. Is your skin excessively oily? Does it feel dry and tight? Does your skin look dull and flaky in the mirror? Whatever your specific skin type, herbal clay masks (preferably organic) will bring out your best appearance.

If you are blessed with oily skin, be thankful. Your skin will age the best, with fewer wrinkles than those with dry skin. Those with oily skin should only be careful to prevent blackheads and clogged pores; this is easy if you use the right products and facial masks. Do not be seduced by products that claim to “pull” the clogs out of your pores. These will damage your skin over time, making your pores permanently enlarged. Better are dissolving facial masks that remove pore-clogging matter gently. Another great attributeof a clay facial mask is that it will leave very tiny residue behind, filling in fine lines and slightly enlarges pores. This is a perfect way to prepare for a big night out, giving you a perfectly smooth surface over which to apply makeup.

A facial mask should be applied weekly and left on the skin for at least 15 minutes or longer. Apply in a circular motion and use enough product to leave a thick layer on your face. Spend time relaxing while the mask does its job. Remove the mask with warm water and gentle scrubbing.

Treating your face to an herbal clay mask each week will keep you looking fresh and youthful and maintain optimal skin health.

Non-comedogenic cosmetics are products which have been tested on the oily skins of human volunteers or inside
rabbit ears. These products are less likely to cause blackheads (open comedones) or whiteheads (closed comedones) in patients. However, no single product is non-comedogenic for everyone.

For example, a person with very oily skin may still get skin breakouts from products that another person with mildly oily skin may find non-comedogenic. A better term may be non-acnegenic rather than non-comedogenic, but this is not so widely used. It is important to test a new product on your own skin rather than rely on the label, before using it freely.

Moisturizers:
There are moisturizers labeled oil-free which have a very thin consistency. These have been tested in old animal models and have been proven to be oil-free. Most people who are acne-prone or who have oily skin do not even need these products. There are moisturizers labeled non-comedogenic which are usually thicker than the oil-free products, these may
be suitable when the ambient humidity is dry. When the patient is exercising or if the air is hot and humid, these moisturizers may be comedogenic.

Cleansers:

There are some products, which are suitable for oily skin, most liquid cleansers are not as helpful for oily skin as bar soaps or synthetic detergents. Some deodorant soaps or cleansers may be helpful for oily skin. Care must be taken not to over dry the skin with a strong cleanser for fear that the skin will re-bound with extra oil. Often a good gentle face bar soap, or gentle cleansers such as will be more likely to allow for patient satisfaction.

When the patient actually has acne and not just oily skin, many acne cleansers are available and many companies have cleansers made specifically for acne. There are benzoyl peroxide cleansers in the form of 5 and 10 % bar soaps and liquid cleansers, which are very effective in controlling acne breakouts.

Foundations:
Foundations for acne prone skin are often formulated to be like a shake lotion the color contents settle on the bottom while the opaque or clear solution is on the top. The bottle is shaken before the foundation is applied, these are the least elegant oil free cosmetics. Most foundations remain mixed together but are not heavy or thick. It is not necessary to have poor coverage in foundations for oily or acne prone skin. Titanium dioxide is the ingredient which allows for better coverage, and that ingredient is not oily, varying amounts of starch and kaolin will thicken up the products without causing acne.

For those who actually have acne prone skin, the addition of 1-2% salicylic acid may be partially therapeutic. For patients who need a blotter for the excess oil in their skin, extra amounts of starch, kaolin, and polymers which absorb sebum may be added.

Sunscreens:
The active ingredients of sunscreens UVB blockers such as Cinnamates, Octocrylene, Salicylates, and UVA blockers such as Benzophenones, Parsol 1789 (avobenzone), micronized zinc or titanium dioxide, are not themselves comedogenic. These ingredients can be incorporated into foundations, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and oil-free bases. The least comedogenic sunscreens are usually formulated into gel formulations.

The truth is that moisturizers are a growing component of daily skin care and account for one of the most common over the counter products sold in the world.

This growth is partly due to the fact that what started as a simple moisturizer has become a sophisticated vehicle for delivery of complex nourishment and regulatory molecules to the skin.

The moisturizers are mostly used for one of the following reasons:

1. To repair the skin’s ability to provide effective barrier against outside pollutants, toxins, bacteria, viruses, fungi and to prevent the essential components of our skin and tissues from escaping our bodies.
2. To increase the water content of the skin in both dermis and epidermis.
3. To reduce skin vulnerability against trans-epidermal (through the skin) water loss.
4. To rebalance the skin’s composition of lipids (fats) both inside and outside the skin cells.
5. To deliver nutrients and regulatory substances to the viable portion of the dermis and epidermis.

The anatomy of most moisturizers encompasses at least one of the following components: emollients, occlusive agents, humectants as swell as additives designed to add extra benefits to the traditional functions of the moisturizers.

Emollients improve the visual aspect of the skin by sealing the tiny splits between the components of stratum Occlusive agents block trans-epidermal water loss. Because of the powerful occlusive properties, these agents have to be used carefully on the face as acne related to the use of cosmetics can result. Humectants are designed to attract water either from the environment or from the underlying dermis to the epidermis.

The era of newer, much more sophisticated moisturizers is upon us where scientifically formulated delivery systems can offer additive benefits of supplementing and modulating skin cells for their optimal function and differentiation. As such, these new moisturizers offer a cutting edge frontier where therapeutic benefits are combined with the moisturizing qualities of topical products. Vitamins, minerals, growth factors, peptides, enzymes and co-enzymes are some of the few categories of molecules currently in use in the latest fight to prevent skin deterioration and optimize its functioning.

About the author:
Mariusz J. A. Sapijaszko, MD FRCPC is the Director of the Western Canada Dermatology Institute located in Edmonton, Alberta. He is also the Clinical Assistant Professor at the Division of Dermatology, University of Alberta, in Edmonton. His areas of expertise include cosmetic and laser surgery.

Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid

Many consumers are frustrated by skin care products that don’t do what they claim to. Worse still is investing in an expensive yet ineffective cream or treatment only to discover the cheapest drug-store brand would work just as well. In a world of hyper-consumerism, false advertising and a plethora of products from which to choose, how do you choose the good from the bad?

There are some great products on the market that can genuinely improve your skin’s appearance and help your skin look smoother, more radiant, and youthful. But, there are literally thousands of products to choose from and unless you spend hours a day researching beauty products, it’s difficult to find the one of the few that actually produces real results and eliminates years of aging from your face and body.

As the law of supply and demand proves, the higher the demand for youth and beauty, the more manufacturers will rush to provide the solution. Many times this rush results in the creation of an inferior product with little to no research and development to back it.

Caveat Emptor – or “let the buyer beware” – is the rule to live by. Do your homework. Know where you are “voting” your hard-earned money. If it is important to you, make sure you are investing in a quality, skincare ingredient backed by proven results. If the environment and being ‘green’ is important to you, then be aware of the manufacturing practices of the company and product you support with your purchase.

Ingredients to Avoid

Due to certain preservative requirements, many skin care products are unfortunately loaded with ingredients that actually harm your skin over time. Following are a few prominent ingredients widely used in skincare products to day and are to be avoided if you prefer you skincare to be more natural or organic.

• Mineral Oil. This oil has been used in literally hundreds of products. Mineral oil may also go by the alternative names liquid paraffin, paraffin wax and petrolatum on the product label. Mineral oil is used pervasively in skin care products as a moisturizing agent due to its low cost.

Mineral oil, once applied, is meant to ‘trap’ moisture in the skin, but once applied, actually prevents the skin from “breathing.” As such, it clogs pores, interferes with your skin’s natural ability to eliminate toxins, and can lead to acne flare ups. Also, it is irritating to the skin and if used for any length of time, your skin can become dependent on it, causing chapping and dryness. Lastly, it can lead to premature aging of the skin.

• Dioxane: (a synthetic derivative of coconut). This substance is widely used in skincare products. It often contains high concentrations of 1,4-dioxane, which is readily absorbed through the skin. In the State of California, 1,4-dioxane has been reported as “known to cause cancer.”

• Fragrances: No one wants to smell bad, but if you want to be on the safe side, you are better off choosing an organic essential oil or diluted cologne, hydrosol or even a bodyspray. Your skin care products typically contain chemically engineered fragrances to mask the unpleasant “chemical odor” of the foundational product itself. Many of these masking fragrances are produced from ingredients that are known to be toxic or carcinogenic.

Your skin is the largest organ of the body. Anything you put on it can be easily absorbed through the pores. When you use skin care products, they are typically applied all over the face, neck, and body. This covers a lot of surface area and, therefore, a great deal of chemical absorption occurs. However, with perfumes and colognes, you can achieve what you want by a small dab here and there, which will result in less chemical absorption overall. If you really want a beauty product to smell great without the harsh side effects, try buying a fragrance-free product and add your own essential oil blend. You can customize a whole line of products with you won signature scent!

• Parabens: methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl paraben. Many skin care products (and moisturizing products) will use parabens as a preservative so their products have a long shelf life. The reason is purely economical. However, studies suggest that they may cause cancer and interfere with the body’s endocrine system, as well as causing allergic reactions and skin rashes.

• Alcohols: ethanol, ethyl alcohol, methanol, benzyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol and SD alcohol. Not all alcohols have the same properties, but these, which are commonly found in skin care products, are very drying and irritating for the skin. Alcohols such as these strip away the skin’s natural acid mantle, making you more vulnerable to bacteria, moulds and viruses.

Now that we’ve looked at some of the bad, let’s examine some of the good ingredients and some ingredients that sound good but in fact aren’t.

Many of you may be curious, what is Ayurveda and how’s it going to help my acne?

The word Ayurveda translates to “the science of life” (Ayru – life and Veda – science). Ayurveda has brought true health and wellness to millions of individuals throughout the ages with simple changes in daily living practices. Incorporating just a few of these proven methods into your lifestyle can bring about radical changes in your life.
It is currently considered a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) within the United States of America, but this ancient art of healing has been practiced continuously for over 5,000 years.
Where Ayurveda differs is in its approach. Unlike other treatment methods, Ayurveda is a comprehensive, holistic system that uses a variety of therapies in an attempt to bring about fundamental change in a person’s lifestyle.
Ayurveda states that each person is unique, exhibiting a distinct energy pattern that is a combination of physical, mental and emotional characteristics. These energies manifest themselves within three doshas, or regions within the body. The three doshas and their perceived locations are vata (colon), pitta (small intestine), and kapha (stomach).
There are more than 20 types of Ayurvedic treatments. These include herbs, nutritional changes, healing oils, massage therapy, meditation and breathing exercises, yoga and other forms of exercise, as well as inducing a person to sweat, move his or her bowels, or even vomit to cleanse the body of toxins.
According to Ayurveda, ojas is the source of the body’s immunity and the subtle substance that gives healthy skins it’s natural glow. When ojas is depleted, the immune response is weak and the skin becomes lifeless. Low ojas and low immunity result from the same cause: an overload of physical, chemical or psychological stress. Ayruveda describes this overloaded condition as an imbalance of the three doshas, and seven dhatus (or body tissues).
For example, acne rosacea is a blood disease and therefore originates in the second tissue. Whether the stressor is the wrong food or an undigested emotion, it takes a couple of weeks from the time the stress occurs for this type of type to break out. Cystic acne, on the other hand, is a disease of the fat tissue–or fourth dhatu-and takes as long as three to four weeks to appear on the skin. Cancer, a disease of the bone marrow and reproductive tissue –the sixth and seventh dhatus, may exist in the body as long as seven years before being discovered.
The basic premise here is one that western medicine is only now beginning to recognize–that every organ, tissue and cell in your body, are directly connected to each other. The skin and the mind form from the same embryonic tissues in the womb. Our skin can be seen as our second brain and the mirror of our thoughts and emotions. What you eat or drink can affect your mind as equally as how you think or feel can affect your body. This is experiential fact, for any of you who may have enjoyed too much alcohol at one time or felt your stomach turning the last time you were nervous or upset.
Ayurvedic practitioners believe that they must first identify which of a person’s doshas are out of balance before suggesting treatment methods. Symbiotically, whatever substance is absorbed into the skin will have an effect on the individuals’ body tissues and vice versa.
That said, there are some specific treatments that many recognize as effective treatments for skin conditions. For starters, regardless of the skin condition, Ayurvedic practitioners suggest staying hydrated. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that water helps to naturally stabilize dry or oily skin. Drinking enough water also helps prevent the loss of moisture through the skin, which helps to promote overall wellness.

Ayurveda also recommends adhering to a daily regimen for proper skin care, including the use of a natural soap and the use of natural skin moisturizers. This is true whether a person has naturally dry skin or suffers from a more serious condition such as psoriasis. The key is to make sure that the moisturizer is in fact, natural, containing only substances such as aloe vera—a natural antibiotic that many believe is particularly helpful in the treatment of many skin conditions. Unfortunately, many commercially available moisturizers contain preservatives and other chemicals, and do not fully absorb into the skin, instead remaining on the surface and sometimes clogging pores as a result.

In addition to proper hydration and skin care, Ayurvedic medicine has identified three natural supplements that appear to help treat a wide range of skin conditions—neem, haemafine syrup and khadir. All three of these are widely prescribed to treat acne, psoriasis, and eczema, although many believe they can be used to treat any skin condition. The tree stem, root, and bark of neem, a large evergreen tree, have antibacterial properties. It is used in supplement form to treat skin conditions. In addition, many Ayurvedic soaps contain neem extract. Haemafine syrup is a natural solution made up of more than a dozen herbs. It is used as a remedy for all types of skin diseases through its natural blood purification properties. Khadir, also known as the acacia catechu herb, is another natural blood purifier used to treat skin conditions.

Besides supplements, some Ayurvedic sources also suggest that a person with a skin condition receive an abhyanga, a traditional Ayurvedic massage that uses herbalized oils to draw toxins out through the skin.