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    • Get the Best Benefits of Exfoliation for Your Skin Type

    Discover the best exfoliation routine and natural products for your skin type: dry, sensitive, mature, oily, acne-prone, and more.

    You’ve heard that exfoliation leaves skin rejuvenated and radiant. But everyone’s skin is different, and everyone’s skin changes over time. Are you getting the maximum benefits of exfoliation for your skin type?

    Done right, exfoliation can help correct imbalances in the skin, whether it’s oily, dry, acne prone, hyperpigmented, sensitive, or mature. As an esthetician working with every skin type, I’ve seen that the rejuvenating benefits of exfoliation apply to virtually everyone. My clients see best results when their product choices and rituals align with their skin type and age.

    Below, I’ll touch on the general benefits of exfoliation and offer suggestions for organic products to complement your skin type. At the end, I’ll highlight a cleanser + peel pairing that’s beneficial for a range of skin types — and I’m offering special pricing when you purchase them together!

    Benefits of Exfoliation 

    First, a refresher on the benefits of exfoliation:

    • Removes dead, dry, and dull skin cells from the outer layers of the skin, resulting in a brighter complexion.
    • Helps moisturizers work more effectively and penetrate deeper.
    • Draws out impurities, unclogging pores.
    • Minimizes signs of aging.
    • Increases cellular metabolism.

    Exfoliation and Skin Type 

    Now for the lowdown on which type of exfoliants will work best for your skin type and why, along with loose recommendations for how often to use them. If you have an esthetician, ask their advice on what timeline would best suit you. (Or schedule a virtual skin consultation with me and we can discuss it.) As a general rule, however, in the early spring, plan to exfoliate every other day.

    Dry or Mature Skin

    Dry and mature skin have similar needs, and see similar benefits from exfoliation.

    Dry skin is a skin type indicated by small pores, a dull complexion, and less elasticity. This might sound counterintuitive, but exfoliation can be great for dry skin. It allows the fatty acids in your serum or moisturizer to penetrate the skin’s visible surface and nourish cells beneath, firming skin from its deepest layers. Because dry skin produces relatively little oil, exfoliation is best done with a hydrating acid. Look for lactic acid or glycolic acid in the ingredients. These natural acids are considered “chemical exfoliants” because they exfoliate without abrasion.

    Mature skin has similar needs to dry skin. While you’ll want to avoid physical exfoliants, you can still experience the benefits of exfoliation from a plant-derived chemical exfoliant. Glycolic acid (GA) is the go-to for most skin over 40 (that number could be higher or lower depending on genetics and lifestyle). This water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid triggers fibroblasts in the skin’s lower layer to produce collagen, the protein that keeps skin structured and elastic. GA is also hydrating and stimulates cellular metabolism.

    Try this: Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel

    This firming peel hydrates skin deeply while exfoliating with glycolic acid for collagen production and lactic acid for intense hydration. The formula is packed with natural antioxidants from acai berry, grapefruit, and goji. Regular use of this peel will visibly increase skin’s firmness, restore its elasticity and reveal a smoother, softer, younger looking complexion. Wipe on, leave on. Use up to three times per week. Note: Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun while using this product. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure.

    Note: Dry and mature skin types are not the same as dehydrated skin, which feels rough and chapped, sometimes flakey. If your skin is dehydrated, don’t exfoliate. Instead, nourish the skin with hydrating products until the skin barrier is healthy enough for exfoliation.

    Oily Skin

    Oily skin also benefits greatly from exfoliation, which can remove excess oil along with dead skin cells. Here, you’ll want to look for a gentle scrub known as a physical exfoliant, which helps break down oil.

    Try this: Charcoal Exfoliating Cleanser

    This exfoliating cleanser uses charcoal to draw dirt and oil from pores as the exfoliating lather washes away impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil, leaving you with a balanced complexion. Start every other day and work up to daily if your skin responds well.

    Acne-Prone Skin

    To see the benefits of exfoliation for acne-prone skin, I recommend salicylic acid. This naturally-occurring acid is found in willow bark and strawberries, and helps manage bacteria as it removes dead skin cells and prevents the formation of comedones. It’s safe for many different skin types because it can self-neutralize. It also reduces inflammation, helping minimize the appearance of blemishes.

    Try this: Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant

    Add this powder to your favorite cleanser for an exfoliating boost that reveals a brighter, radiant complexion. Strawberries contain natural salicylic acid to remove dead skin cells, and lactic acid adds a hydrating exfoliation. Rice powder gently buffs and absorbs excess oil. Finally, rhubarb infuses the skin with antioxidants. Start with every other day and work up to daily if your skin responds well.

    Sensitive Skin

    Sensitive skin needs the gentlest exfoliants, whether chemical or physical. I recommend a formula with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in a cream base, which buffers them. AHAs are naturally-occuring acids that gently dissolve dead skin. If you choose to use a physical scrub, use a light touch. It shouldn’t leave your skin feeling raw or irritated.

    Try This: Monoi Age Corrective Exfoliating Cleanser

    This is the most gentle exfoliating cleanser we have, and the only one that I recommend to clients with dermatitis. The AHAs come from lemon, passion fruit, grape, and pineapple extracts The olive seeds are finely ground and not overly abrasive. Monoi itself is a fragrant Tahitian oil that hydrates and firms the skin. Start with once per week and work up to using it daily if your skin seems happy.

    Hyperpigmented Skin

    Hyperpigmented skin is a patch of skin that’s darker, and not accompanied by irritation. When exfoliating, we want to combine the acids that exfoliate with acids that brighten and help reduce hyperpigmentation. For instance, combining lactic acid with mandelic acid.

    Try This: Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel

    This award-winning natural peel combines exfoliating lactic acid with brightening mandelic acid. daisy blossom, and extracts of African potato and tara tree lighten the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Wipe on, leave on. Start with once per week and work up to as many as three exfoliating treatments per week. Note: Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun while using this product, so use sunscreen and limit sun exposure.

    Dull Skin

    Wondering where your glow went? Dull skin can be one of the first signs of aging, as the rate of natural exfoliation decreases. Awaken the skin with a warming exfoliant that also increases circulation. Bonus points if it draws out impurities with clay or charcoal.

    Try This: Turmeric Energizing Treatment

    This golden powder revitalizes skin with turmeric, zeolite, and kaolin clay. Turmeric is an ancient beauty secret and potent antioxidant that brightens skin and reduces puffiness. Zeolite exfoliates and brings literal heat to this formula. Kaolin clay gently draws impurities from pores, deeply cleaning and softening skin without stripping moisture. The treatment activates as you add water, transforming into a warming mousse. Try it once per week and add an additional weekly treatment if needed.

    Perfect Pairing: The Gentle Exfoliation Collection

    Monoi Age Corrective Exfoliating Cleanser + Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel: I chose this pairing because it combines a manual scrub and a gentle chemical exfoliant. It’s gentle and hydrating for the transitions our skin faces, and beneficial for any skin type — even sensitive and mature. (Head back to the highlights under Sensitive Skin and Mature Skin to discover how these plant-based formulas work their magic.) Both products are from Eminence Organics, a skin care line that combines the best of cutting-edge science and nature’s wisdom for botanical products that get results. They’re cruelty-free and made with zero harsh chemicals.

    Purchase these two products together as the Gentle Exfoliation Collection for a special savings! 

    How to use this collection 

    • Start every morning by cleansing with the Monoi Age Corrective Exfoliating Cleanser. 
    • Apply on dry skin and emulsify with wet fingertips. 
    • Splash with tepid water to remove. 
    • Pat dry. 
    • Every other morning, wipe the skin with Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel, using the cotton round provided. 
    • Finish with serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

    Purchase the Gentle Exfoliation Collection for $103 (a special savings of $18).

    In Closing,

    You don’t have to give up exfoliation because of the season — whether that means winter or, more poetically, a season of your life. The benefits of exfoliation apply to every skin type, as long as your skin care practice aligns with your environment, age, and the needs of your skin. 

    If you’d like a personalized recommendation for how often to exfoliate and which products would be best for you, schedule a consultation with me today. We’ll take a closer look at your skin type and the elements your skin is up against daily. I’ll also recommend rejuvenating, plant-based products for your skin.

    Schedule a virtual consultation with Jessica for specialized skin care recommendations. 

    Dermatitis, Eczema, and What You Need to Know About the Skin Microbiome

    Learn how the skin’s microbiome relates to dermatitis and eczema, plus receive best-care tips.

    Itchy, red, inflamed skin isn’t exactly welcome anywhere on our bodies. But for most of us, the face is probably one of the last places we’d pick if given a choice. Alas, several clients have told me they’re experiencing dermatitis on their faces this winter. I love that I get to tell them there’s good news: research on the skin microbiome over the last 15 years has brought us new insights into the microscopic causes of dermatitis and eczema. And in response to this research, soothing plant-based face creams and oils can promote repair of this important barrier.

    The topic of the skin microbiome is a big one. In this post, I’ll keep my focus on dermatitis and eczema — especially on the face — and share practical tips for how to avoid damage and promote repair.

    The Skin Microbiome — What Is It?

    The word “microbiome” translates to a “large community of small life.” So the skin microbiome is the ecosystem of tiny organisms residing on our skin. Mostly bacteria, but also fungi and viruses.

    Like the beneficial microorganisms in our gut, microbes on the skin help protect against pathogens that could otherwise cause imbalance and bring disease. Beneficial microbes on the skin also appear to “educate” the immune system about threats and help break down natural substances on the skin’s surface. 

    What Happens When the Skin Microbiome is Disturbed?

    When the barrier created by the skin microbiome is disturbed, there’s a breech in the protective system. Your body becomes more vulnerable to disease — on the skin and elsewhere.

    Let’s look at the most common type of eczema, atopic dermatitis. Two studies from 2017 showed that an imbalance of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria contributed to skin inflammation in flare ups of atopic dermatitis. The findings also suggest that a barrier of diverse beneficial skin-dwelling microbiota can indeed protect against pathogens.

    Aside from pathogens, a disrupted skin barrier is more susceptible to dehydration because moisture escapes the body more readily. Dehydrated skin, in turn, is more susceptible to inflammation and disease, creating a downward spiral. 

    What Causes Disruption of the Skin Microbiome?

    As I’ve noted in previous posts, skin is our first line of defense against irritants, pathogens, and environmental stressors. Skin is a beautifully complex layering of lipids, fatty acids, wax esters, and cells that keep moisture in and pathogens out.

    uv disrupts skin microbiome

    What disrupts the balance:

    • UV exposure 
    • Pollution
    • Excessive exfoliation
    • Harsh cleansers
    • Psychological stress
    • Long-term use of steroid creams (while steroids can help relieve the discomfort and itching from irritated skin, they don’t solve the underlying problem, and long-term use of steroids is not recommended for a healthy skin barrier.)

    In cases involving a genetic predisposition, the condition may worsen in response to: 

    • Food allergies
    • Skin infections
    • Irritating clothes or chemicals
    • Change in climate

    Genetic predisposition? Yes, a gene mutation has been found to play a causal role in atopic dermatitis (the most common type of eczema). People with mutations in the gene coding for filaggrin, a binding protein in skin, are more likely to experience dry and irritated skin. Nearly 50% of severe cases of eczema appear to have at least one mutated filaggrin gene. 

    How To Support the Skin Microbiome and Barrier Repair

    Now for the good news. Plant oils can promote repair of the skin microbiome! Focusing on repair of the skin barrier allows the skin to use its own healthy bacteria, antimicrobial strains like Staphylococcus epidermis and S. hominis, to fight the atopic dermatitis.

    “Plant oils are now being increasingly recognized for their effects on both skin diseases and the restoration of cutaneous homeostasis,” wrote the researchers behind a 2018 data review. 

    After studying 19 oils — from common oils like coconut and olive to the rarer rosehip oil — they concluded that the constituents of plant oils (triglycerides, phospholipids, FFAs, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants) may act synergistically to:

    • promote skin barrier homeostasis
    • neutralize free radicals that cause oxidative stress
    • reduce inflammation
    • promote healthy microbial balance
    • support natural wound healing

    Highlight: Virgin Coconut Oil

    In a 2014 study of children with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, virgin coconut oil applied to the skin decreased the severity of the disease and improved barrier function. Coconut oil also protected the skin from minor UV radiation, and the group treated with coconut oil showed lower levels of inflammation after exposure to UVB radiation.

    Coconut oil is packed with monolaurin, which makes up nearly 50% of coconut’s fat content. This compound has been shown to help dissolve the lipid membrane of bacteria known to cause skin problems, including Propionibacterium acnes (linked to acne) and Staphylococcus aureus (linked to dermatitis and eczema). 

    Because harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin barrier, I often recommend Eminence Organics’ Coconut Milk Cleanser to clients with irritated skin. One of its key ingredients is virgin coconut oil. This gentle cleanser was created to comfort dry, irritated skin while correcting irritation at its source — the skin microbiome.

    Coconut Milk Cleanser
    Camellia Glow for skin microbiome

    Highlight: Camellia Oil

    Here, the emphasis is on hydration and fostering resilience. Rich in oleic fatty acid (omega-9), camellia oil is highly transdermal — able to penetrate the skin’s outer layers, hydrating deeply. It also delivers vitamins A, B, D, E, and omega-3 — antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals — to the lower layers of the skin. Deep absorption also means camellia oil won’t leave skin feeling greasy or block pores. 

    Because a disrupted skin barrier allows moisture to escape more readily, and dehydrated skin is more susceptible to inflammation and disease, I recommend Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil to clients experiencing dermatitis and eczema. It deeply moisturizes and nourishes with oil distilled from cold-pressed camellia seeds. 

    With deeply penetrating oils such as camellia oil, biologists behind a 2020 data review recommended sealing the skin after use with coconut or shea butter. (I recommend two of my favorite moisturizers for eczema and dermatitis below.)

    Perfect Pairing: The Nourishing Microbiome Collection

    Coconut Milk Cleanser + Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil: Using the two products in this collection, morning and night during the winter, will best serve to repair the skin barrier function. Both products are from Eminence Organics, a skin care line with plant-derived, science-backed ingredients that get results. All Eminence products are grown and harvested using regenerative, organic farming methods. They’re also cruelty-free and made without harsh chemicals.

    Purchase these two products together as the Nourishing Microbiome Collection for a special savings! 

    Skin Microbiome perfect pairing

    How to use the Nourishing Microbiome Collection

    • On dry skin, using clean hands, apply one pump of Coconut Milk Cleanser. Emulsify with wet finger tips and massage gently in circles for a minute or two. 
    • Remove cleanser with tepid water (not a washcloth), and gently towel dry. 
    • Next, apply a pea size of the Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil. 
    • Apply a moisturizer containing shea butter on top of the face oil. For morning or daytime use, I recommend the Calm Skin Chamomile Moisturizer, which contains shea butter as a key ingredient.  Or, for a nighttime skin ritual on top of the face oil, I love the Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm. This contains Eminence Organics’ proprietary Natural Repair Complex, which uses rosehip and rosemary extracts to repair and calm dry skin as you sleep. 
    • When experiencing active atopic dermatitis, avoid exfoliation, including scrubs, synthetic retinoids, and alpha hydroxy acids. 
    • Pro-tip: Clients can still receive facials but, as the esthetician, avoid exfoliation.

    Purchase the Nourishing Microbiome Collection here. 

    In Closing,

    Aside from itchy discomfort (which is bad enough), dermatitis and eczema on the face is likely a sign that our skin microbiome is out of balance. I’m grateful for recent research shedding light on the unseen causes of these skin irritations, and glad that I can offer clients plant-based, science-backed solutions that balance microbiota, replenish moisture, and support repair of the skin barrier at its source.

    If you think your skin microbiome may be out of balance, then schedule a consultation with me today. We’ll take a closer look at your specific case, and I’ll recommend the best products for you during this season of life.

    Schedule a virtual consultation, here. 

    Jessica Goneia meets with clients during a virtual skincare consultation

    The Science of a Relaxing Facial

    Learn the science behind a relaxing facial, including pressure points, aromatics, my go-to products, and more.

    It’s not uncommon as I’m wrapping up a facial for a blissed-out client, to hear the question, “Why are facials so relaxing?” It’s really no mystery. In fact, there’s a science to it. I’ve learned through experience and research that a relaxing facial requires understanding the body as an interconnected system, and putting that information to work with my hands — and the power of plants. Below, I’m sharing four ways I turn that knowledge into action, along with a few of my favorite botanical oils and creams that can help you take a facial to the next level of bliss whether you’re working with clients or treating yourself to a facial at home.

    1. Vagus nerve

    What it is: The vagus nerve connects the brainstem to the body, acting as a link between the brain and the heart, lungs, and other organs. It’s part of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the automatic processes we don’t have to think about, like breathing, digestion, and heart rate. Specifically, it’s part of the parasympathetic side of the autonomic nervous system, helping to decrease blood pressure and heart rate, bringing the body out of tension and into a calm, relaxed state.

    Why it’s important for a relaxing facial: “Vagus” means “wandering” in Latin,” because this long nerve meanders from the brain through the neck, into the chest and abdomen.

    My facials include a neck and shoulder massage that stimulates the vagus nerve, prompting the parasympathetic nervous system to lower blood pressure and deepen the breath, initiating a cycle of further relaxation. My favorite blend for this part of the facial is Stony Creek Aromatics Mind-Body Massage Oil, which I created especially for this purpose. The blend contains calm-promoting lavender, mood-lifting sweet orange, rose otto to regulate cortisol, sandalwood to slow the stress response, and patchouli to help clear a cloudy mind. It’s applied to the neck and shoulders, and it’s key to my recipe for a relaxing facial.

    Many thanks to Elaine Economou at MOVE Wellness, for pointing out how valuable the vagus nerve is to a relaxing facial.

    2. Pressure points

    What they are: Pressure points are specific areas on your body that connect with larger systems, or energy channels, throughout the body. These were developed by the longstanding system of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and are built on the same foundational knowledge as acupuncture: the idea that a blocked channel can create pain or discomfort. Stimulating these points on the body stimulates the larger internal system, directing the body’s innate healing forces to where they are needed.

    Why it’s important for a relaxing facial: Pressure points are found throughout the body, but those on the face — especially those along the center of the face — are believed by proponents of acupressure and acupuncture to:

    • restore focus
    • promote calm
    • reduce anxiety
    • improve sleep

    I like to enhance the relaxing effects of pressure points near the eyes — there’s one between the eyebrows and another at each of the temples — with Eminence Organics’ Lavender Eye Cream. This is an age-corrective cream formulated with leading-edge botanical science. Soothing and calming lavender is its star ingredient. It replenishes moisture as we work with pressure points, and relieves minor skin irritations. Both lavender and evening primrose bring aromatic benefits (more on that below), while Eminence’s unique anti-aging stem cell complex rejuvenates skin and leaves my clients’ skin radiant.

    3. Energy meridians

    What they are: The pressure points mentioned above lie along energy meridians, channels through which Qi (life energy) flows. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, these meridians link external points on the face, hands, and feet to internal organs — heart, lungs, bladder, intestines, kidneys, stomach, liver, and spleen — meaning a facial massage can stimulate and help balance the body’s internal systems. In Western medicine, energy meridians might be explained as the workings of the peripheral and central nervous systems, but these are really two completely different approaches to thinking about the body and its systems.

    Why it’s important for a relaxing facial: Like acupoints, we can use knowledge of the meridians along the face to promote balance in the body as a whole. I love to use Eminence Organics’ Lavender Concentrate when I’m working with facial meridians. Like the eye cream above, this age-corrective formula is based on the latest research in plant-based skin care. It moisturizes and soothes as we move stagnant lymph fluid and blood, removing toxins and increasing circulation. This has benefits for the skin itself, and is another way a relaxing facial supports relaxation and balance throughout the body.  

    4. Aromatics

    What they are: Aromatics are highly scented plant extracts, typically sourced from fragrant herbs. You might be familiar with the term “aromatics” from its use in the kitchen. These plants are used in aromatherapy too, typically in the form of essential oils. The same volatile oils that hold the plant’s scent often possess constituents that benefit our skin and can even impact mood. 

    Why it’s important for a relaxing facial: Different plant constituents have different effects, but my focus during a facial is typically on utilizing aromatics to relieve stress and reset the brain and body equilibrium. Lavandula angustifolia (common lavender) has a soothing and toning effect on the nerves largely due to its high linalool content. Research suggests the scent alone can alleviate tension and stress, and support healthy sleep. All of the products mentioned above — Stony Creek Aromatics Mind-Body Massage Oil, Lavender Eye Cream, Lavender Concentrate — employ the benefits of lavender as an aromatic in a relaxing facial. 

    Perfect Pairing

    Lavender Eye Cream + Lavender Concentrate: If you love lavender, you’ll love this collection, containing an eye cream and serum. Experience the relaxing power of lavender, with the added benefit of age-corrective skin care. Both products are from Eminence Organics, a skin care line that combines the best of nature and science for pure, plant-based products that get results. As part of your evening ritual, after cleansing, apply a lentil size amount of the Lavender Age Corrective Eye Cream to the entire eye area. Next, apply three pumps of the Lavender Age Corrective Night Concentrate to the entire face and neck. Finish with your favorite moisturizer.

    Purchase the Lavender Love Collection for $117 (a savings of $21).

    In Closing,

    A relaxing facial is as much of a science as an art, and with a little knowledge and practice you can put these four factors to work for yourself.  Whether your giving yourself an at-home facial or you’re an esthetician in a spa setting, high-quality herbal preparations will help you take this experience from “nice” to “bliss.” You might want to get ready for that question: “What makes a facial sooooo relaxing?”

    Gifting for others (or yourself)?

    Schedule a facial or purchase a gift certificate to treat a loved one to a facial — or send the link to a loved one as an idea for a gift you’d be sure to use. 😉

    Five Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin

    Learn why rosehip oil is incredible for the skin, including its ability to slow signs of aging, reduce inflammation, and more!

    When we think of a rose, most of us will envision a flower. But on some rose varieties, including the wild rose species of Rosa canina, the flower begets a small fruit. Called a “rosehip” it’s akin to a crabapple in shape, with a tart flavor. From the seeds of this fruit comes rosehip oil, a valuable, nutritive oil that can help protect skin from exposure to the elements. Below, I share five benefits of rosehip oil for skin, and how it’s used for protection and repair in three incredible products. 

    Rosehip oil is pressed from rosehips, the fruit of roses.(If you’re as impressed with rosehip oil as I am, then be sure to check out the Rosehip Repair Collection for a special price on two of my favorite Eminence Organics products with rosehip oil!)

    Five Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin 

    1. Promotes skin hydration and elasticity

    Rosehip oil has high concentrations of essential fatty acids, according to a 2017 review of scientific literature. Notably, linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) and alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid). These promote hydration and elasticity, improving skin’s moisture and tone. Although rosehip oil is appropriate for any season, it can really shine in winter, keeping skin hydrated in spite of dry air.

    1. Prevents damage from environmental stressors

    Rosehip oil also has high concentrations of fat-soluble antioxidants, which benefit skin by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are an unavoidable byproduct of normal cellular processes, but the body creates more during encounters with environmental stressors like ultraviolet light and pollution. Within the body, free radicals scavenge electrons from other molecules, damaging cells and DNA in the process. Coming to the rescue, antioxidants readily offer electrons to balance free radicals, preventing oxidative damage (hence the name, “antioxidant”). So when the tocopherols and carotenoids in rosehip oil meet the skin’s lipid layer, it’s a wellness party for your cells that can help prevent damage from exposure to environmental stressors. 

    1. Protects from inflammation

    Because free radicals cause damage that triggers the body’s inflammatory response (a natural part of the healing process, but is also the cause of many skin disorders), the neutralizing effect of antioxidants prevents the need for inflammation. So one of the benefits of rosehip oil, with its combination of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble antioxidants, is that it offers strong protection against both oxidative stress and inflammation.

    1. Supports wound healing

    A 2019 scientific study demonstrated that rosehip oil significantly promoted wound healing and effectively improved the appearance of scars. The study’s authors speculated that it might work by speeding a cellular response that supports the growth of new tissue and slows a different cellular process that can contribute to abnormal scarring.

    1. Slows visible signs of aging

    The benefits of rosehip oil cascade from skin’s health to its appearance. As mentioned previously, antioxidant tocopherols, carotenoids, and vitamin C in rosehip oil neutralize free radicals, preventing damage to cell structure and DNA. Because cell damage and inflammation both speed aging, antioxidant-rich rosehip oil prevents damage at the molecular level and creates the conditions for repair, slowing the effects of aging on skin.

    Special thanks to Jade Shutes, director of education for the School for Aromatic Studies, for pointing me in the direction of the 2017 review of scientific literature linked in numbers 1 and 3 above. Jade is a former president of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, and my go-to for information on fatty oils. Her class, Aromatic Studies Monograph Database includes invaluable research on fatty oils (aka carrier oils).

    Rosehip Oil in Action: Protection and Repair for Skin

    The three products below leverage the benefits of rosehip oil for skin. They were formulated to enhance repair and regeneration at the cellular level, and offer hydration and protection. (The Rosehip Repair Collection includes the first two. The third is a bonus recommendation for our 20 to 30-year-old clients.) All three products are from Eminence Organics, a skincare line with uncompromising standards for quality, ethical production, and results. 

    Rosehip Triple C & E Firming Oil

    Appropriate for use with all skin types, Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil hydrates deeply to plump the skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles. The ingredients in this science-backed firming blend combine to tone and protect skin, increasing resilience to the elements. 

    As the name suggests, rosehip oil is a star in this blend. It’s rich in vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene — antioxidants that neutralize damaging free radicals, promoting repair at the cellular level. 

    Rosemary leaf extract and vitamin C bring a double dose of goodness to the dermis, the layer beneath the visible epidermis that gives skin strength and flexibility. Eminence Organics’ rosemary leaf extract is a patented, organic formulation designed to: 

    • fight glycation (damage to cells caused by sugar molecules that can speed the aging process) and 
    • promote the production of collagen and elastin 

    And while most skin products with vitamin C can’t penetrate the skin’s lipid matrix — they’re water soluble — Eminence’s oil-soluble vitamin C is absorbed into the dermis, delivering antioxidant protection to the cells that produce collagen and elastin.

    This firming formula also employs jojoba oil to nourish sebum on the skin’s surface, and sea buckthorn oil brings an additional wealth of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.

    To use, apply 2-3 drops of oil to your face and neck with circular motions once nightly. Alternatively, use 6-7 drops and give yourself a gua sha facial massage. Leave on. Follow with the application of the Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm (below) for ultimate protection or the Rosehip Whip Moisturizer (also below) for a lighter application. 

    Purchase the Rosehip Triple C & E Firming Oil here.

    Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm

    Whether you’re up against drying wind, sun, or moisture-sapping winter air, this any-season balm is here for your skin. The benefits of rosehip oil shine in this blend, bringing essential fatty acids, and antioxidant vitamins C, E, and beta carotene to improve skin’s moisture, tone, and texture. 

    Wax esters — jojoba esters, green wattle flower wax, sunflower seed wax — are also stars in this blend. Along with oil, wax esters are part of what make up your skin’s sebum. Waxes and oils are both lipids, have hydrophobic properties, provide antibacterial protection, and protect the skin against TWEL, or Transepidermal Water Loss.

    Rosehip makes a second appearance in the balm as part of Eminence Organics’ signature Natural Repair Complex. Made from rosehip and rosemary, Natural Repair Complex speeds recovery of dry skin and protects from further drying. And the evolutionary wisdom of a cactus — prickly pear stem is rich in flavones, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals — brings soothing moisture while helping skin stay firm.

    For ultimate protection against bacteria and moisture loss, use with the Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil. Apply the oil first, then the balm on top. This is most effective as part of your evening skin care routine, as the body naturally seeks to repair damages from the day while you sleep.

    You can also use Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm as a spot treatment anywhere on your body, (nostrils during cold and flu season, elbows, cuticles). Or on top of moisturizer before heading out for a winter activity, like skiing, to protect skin from further dryness.

    Purchase the Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm here.

    Want the firming oil AND the repair balm? Purchase the Rosehip Repair Collection for $157 (a savings of $27). Note: The bundle does not include the moisturizer below.

    Rosehip Whip Moisturizer

    Rosehip and carrot combine forces in this whip to tone, soothe, and moisturize. Formulated for youthful, oily, or sensitive skin, Rosehip Whip Moisturizer uses rosehip extract to hydrate and improves tone and appearance. Of course, it’s also a rich source of antioxidant vitamin C.

    Lemon, also high in vitamin C, assists in preventing oxidative damage, working to tone skin and reduce visible signs of aging. The whip also contains Eminence Organics’ unique BioComplex: a booster of antioxidants, Coenzyme Q10, and Alpha Lipoic Acid to minimize wrinkles and improve the overall appearance of skin.

    To use, apply a layer of moisturizer over the entire face and neck. Leave on. Rosehip Whip Moisturizer is best for youthful, oily, and sensitive skin types.

    In closing,

    Exposure to environmental stressors — whether sun, pollution, or cold, dry air — is an unavoidable part of life. But skin that’s nourished with plant-based antioxidants and essential fatty acids can meet the elements with resilience, minimizing damage and supporting recovery. One of the top benefits of rosehip oil, then, is that it’s on our side in the quest to enjoy an active life and feel great in our skin.

     

    Steps in a Facial: Tips from a Botanical Skin Care Specialist

    Learn the 11 steps that Jessica follows during facials, plus product recommendations for at-home facial products!

    Most of us book an appointment for a facial thinking about the clear, radiant complexion we’ll have in the days and weeks that follow. But a facial can be a restorative and relaxing ritual in itself. Especially when it includes cleansers and masques with botanical ingredients, plus a calming facial massage and stress-relieving aromatherapy. 

    Below, I’m sharing the steps in a facial I follow for clients who come to my day spa. 

    This botanically-infused experience leaves them glowing for days. And with the right products, you can replicate much of the process at home. Read to the end for product recommendations for at-home facials, including special pricing on the collection I’ve curated for you!

    Step 1: Evaluate

    At our spa, we do a short intake consultation to best understand each client’s unique skin concerns and the reason for their visit. At home, you can think about the goals for your facial as you review the products you have on hand. Hydration and exfoliation consistently come up in conversations with my clients, so those were top of the list when I crafted the product recommendations at the end of this post.

    Step 2: Cleanse

    The initial cleanse prepares the skin for the coming steps in a facial by removing any surface-level impurities. Even at this stage, the facial can be as much about restoration as purification. I use products that gently cleanse with plant-derived ingredients while revitalizing skin with antioxidants. Just the right amount of pressure stimulates circulation without stressing the skin.

    Step 3: Exfoliate

    Exfoliation is a two-part process, revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. A scrub, like rice powder or olive seeds, polishes the skin while acids work to dissolve dead skin. A formulation using plant-derived acids, like glycolic and lactic, will take a deeper dive to assist the skin in its natural renewal process, without causing unnecessary irritation.

    Step 4: Extract

    Comedones are impurities within pores that give skin a rough texture. Typically, they’re caused by dead skin cells, excess oil, or bacteria. They can be open (blackheads), closed (whiteheads), or flesh colored. If needed, we’ll remove them at this stage. Even though this is one of the signature steps in a facial, not everyone’s skin requires extraction.

    Step 5: Facial Massage

    After the previous step, a facial massage feels divine. It also increases circulation, tones facial muscles, and calms the central nervous system. (Keep your eye out for a post in the coming months on the science behind a relaxing facial!)

    Step 6: Masque

    Corrective masques for your face and lips can draw out impurities, soften the appearance of large pores, deeply hydrate, tone and firm, or plump fine lines.. Products like the Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque (profiled below) use plant-based extracts to deliver moisture on a cellular level and improve skin barrier function, boosting tone and elasticity. Look for a masque that also nourishes and protects skin, revealing a firmer complexion and boosting resilience to the stresses our skin encounters on a daily basis. 

    While we wait for the masque to set, I give my clients a shoulder massage with stress-relieving aromatherapy.

    Step 7: Tone

    Here we want to tone the skin with a tonique, or tonic. Look for one that restores moisture and nourishes the skin. This is also a great place to include ingredients like antioxidants to fight oxidative damage, and plant extracts to revitalize the skin. Toning is one of the essential steps in a facial that will help the skin absorb and retain the benefits of the steps to come. 

    Step 8: Serum

    At this stage your skin is ready to drink in some serious goodness. Serums are easily-absorbed solutions that deliver moisture and nutrients at a cellular level. Different formulas address different concerns, and a serum could be rich in botanical lighteners,  collagen, or hyaluronic acid, to name a few possibilities. In general, they’re meant to moisturize, brighten, and firm the skin, leaving it truly healthy and glowing. 

    Step 9: Moisturizer

    Moisturizers are meant to be a moisture shield, occluding the skin at the precise level you need for your skin type. It can also serve to calm, firm, brighten, or increase the skin’s resiliency. Like serums, different formulas will aim for slightly different results, but all will work to hydrate and nourish the skin.

    Step 10: Scalp Massage

    One of the final steps in a facial, an invigorating scalp massage relieves tension in muscles near the hairline, behind the ears, and in the neck. In addition to feeling amazing, the massage increases blood flow to the scalp and may even stimulate hair growth. Mostly, it’s a perfect way to end the session.

    Step 11: Look Forward

    During our wrap-up consultation, I recommend the best home care routine for each client’s needs and lifestyle. You can recreate this at home with a mental review of how the facial went, and identifying what you’d like to focus on for maintenance until your next facial.

    Expert Hands

    A few features of the facials I do for clients either require training or must be done on an individual basis: 

    • Aroma Point Therapy, a method that combines the philosophies of aromatherapy and acupuncture
    • Energy meridian massage
    • Attention to individual skin concerns like dryness, a disrupted barrier, acne, excess oil, rosacea and telangiectasia, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and other skin disorders.

    For a restorative facial from a botanical skin care specialist, schedule a facial with me today.

    P.S. Want to do your own facial at home? Purchase this special collection bundle for savings (see products below).

    At-Home Facial Collection


    As I was putting together this specially priced collection for at-home facials, I looked for three products that would work together in an alchemical way to elevate exfoliation and hydration. This power trio covers the basic steps in a facial, and because all three work well for a variety of skin types, the collection can be woven into any skin care regimen. 

    You can buy each of the below products individually, or you can purchase them together for a combined price of $128 (a savings of $42).

    The products are made by Eminence Organic Skin Care, a high-quality botanical brand with wholehearted standards from formulation to sourcing. Their products combine science-backed, plant-based skin care with biodynamic (beyond organic) farming methods.

    Note: If you get a restorative facial at my studio we may or may not use these particular products, depending on the needs of your skin at the time. 

    Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant

    This exfoliator uses strawberry and rhubarb to reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion. Natural salicylic acid in strawberries gently exfoliates, removing impurities. It also has astringent properties that tighten pores. Rhubarb brings antioxidants to the formula, helping to prevent oxidative damage that leads to the appearance of wrinkles.

    Rice powder and chickpea flour absorb oil and smooth skin texture. Heilmoor clay draws out impurities and softens the skin. 

    Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant also contains BioComplex, a mix of antioxidants including coenzyme Q10 and alpha lipoic acid that prevent damage at the cellular level, minimizing wrinkles and improving the appearance of skin.

    To use, dispense a dime-sized amount into your palm and add a half teaspoon of water, or your facial cleanser. Rub your hands together to create a creamy paste and apply it to your face using circular motions, avoiding the delicate skin around the eyes. Gently massage the paste into your skin, then rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry.

    Purchase the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant here.

    Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque

    Deeply hydrate, purify, and tighten the appearance of your skin with this depuffing mask. Snow mushroom hydrates and improves skin barrier function, boosting elasticity. And reishi mushroom offers polysaccharides that help plump cells by binding to water. Birch water nourishes, purifies and hydrates the skin, leaving it toned and tightened. Paracress extract elevates the appearance of skin density, revealing a firmer complexion at any age. Caffeine also helps revitalize the skin’s appearance.

    To use, mix a small amount of the product with a few drops of water in your hand. Apply the mixture evenly over your face, including the eye area, neck, and décolleté if you wish. Allow to dry for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, use a face cloth if desired. Use 1-2 times per week, or as often as needed.

    Purchase the Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque here.

    Birch Water Purifying Essence

    Replenish skin and restores moisture levels. Nutrient-rich birch water purifies and hydrates the skin while botanically-sourced collagen increases structure and elasticity. Snow mushroom brings additional hydration and antioxidants to increase elasticity and improve skin barrier function. And polysaccharides in reishi mushrooms boost hydration while antioxidants reduce puffiness. The Birch Water Purifying Essence tones while preparing skin to absorb and retain the benefits of any serums or moisturizers you use next. 

    To use, dispense a small amount of the product in your hands or on a cotton

     pad and pat onto cleansed and toned skin. Leave on.

    Purchase the Birch Water Purifying Essence here.

    Purchase the At-Home Facial Collection for a special price of $128, here.

     

    30 or Older? Plant-Based Peptides for Skin Can Help You Age Radiantly

    Explore the benefits of plant-based peptides for the skin + product recommendations to age beautifully.

     

    Fine lines and wrinkles are inevitable as we age, but the first time we see them on our own face it can come as a shock. In a culture that celebrates youth, it may be an unwelcome surprise. But we can help shift that culture by giving our skin appropriate care as it matures — it’s one way to show the world we’re worthy of top-notch treatment no matter our age. In this post, I’ll explore three products with plant-based peptides for skin at 30+ and two more as a bonus for those on the cusp of 50. But first, I’ll explain how peptides can help your skin continue to glow naturally — revealing your radiance at any age.

    (If you love this post, make sure to check out our Plumping Peptide Collection, which combines three of the products for a special savings of $53!)

    Tapping Into The Benefits of Peptides For Skin

    Peptides are the amino acids that combine to make proteins in your skin. You’ve heard of collagen? Well, that’s made of polypeptide chains. (If you aren’t familiar with collagen, I’ll do a quick review below.) 

    Studies have demonstrated that peptides provide numerous benefits for the skin.  These benefits include:

    • The inhibition of aging-related enzymes, including elastase, collagenase, tyrosinase, and hyaluronidase
    • Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory actions
    • Protection against damage when applied topically or ingested

    By applying peptides to the skin, you ensure your body has the materials it needs to make collagen, keeping your skin plumper, firmer, and more radiant. And you get some added protection from the daily damage of inflammation and oxidative stress. 

    Collagen: Structural Support Stronger Than Steel

    Collagen creates structural support throughout your body. Gram for gram, the collagen in your skin, tendons, and bones — Type I collagen — is stronger than steel. Without it, blood vessels, tendons, and skin would be very fragile. 

    Your body makes its own collagen, but production decreases as we age. That’s one of the reasons our skin gets wrinkles. Collagen density begins to decline around age 30, at a rate of 1-1.5% each year. We do have some control over that loss by protecting against damage that degrades collagen. And certain products, such as those with peptides, can support collagen production.

    Why Marine Algae?

    With protein content of up to 47% of their dry weight, marine algae are gaining recognition as a sustainable source of bioactive peptides. 

    Algae are rich in proteins, amino acids, vitamins A, B, and C, and elements including copper, iron and zinc. All of those components aid hydration, firming, and luminance. Many species also contain compounds that protect skin and, in turn, keep it looking youthful. 

    Exposed to sunlight all day, marine algae have had to evolve innate protections against damage from UV light. Those compounds — a range of pigments, polysaccharides, phenol, lipids, and proteins — have been shown to protect our skin from oxidative damage as well. 

    A review of scientific studies found that algal extracts have the following actions:

    • antioxidant
    • anti-inflammatory
    • anti-pigmentation (evening dark patches of skin)
    • anti-aging
    • anticancer

    Algae’s antioxidants play an underlying role in all of the above. That’s because UV-induced oxidative stress contributes to inflammation, melanin-pigment production, aging, and DNA damage that can lead to cancer. By neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative damage — especially the accumulation of reactive oxidants, sometimes called reactive oxygen species or ROS — we prevent the eventual repercussions of it too.  

    Brown and red algae have, thus far, shown the greatest potential for human use. That said, most algae possess similarly beneficial compounds. 

    Age-Corrective Solutions For Skin

    The products I recommend below incorporate the benefits of collagen, algae, and peptides for skin. They are geared towards those 30+ who want to slow down the loss of collagen and hyaluronic acid. (Three are part of a collection with special pricing, and the last two are bonus mentions.)

    Is anyone else getting the idea that these

    products would be a great alternative to botox and fillers? There’s no shame in choosing those options but I have committed to an all natural route. I’m thrilled with the Marine Flower Peptide collection for that reason!

    Speaking of which, all of the products are from Eminence Organics’ Marine Flower Peptide Collection. This skin care line has uncompromising standards for quality, effectiveness, and ethical production. 

    Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream 

    This rich eye cream reduces visible signs of aging, hydrating the delicate skin around your eyes to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles.

    The formula contains botanical peptides derived from rice protein, and red algae extract with vitamins, minerals, and amino-acids. Botanical hyaluronic acid from beet root smooths and plumps skin, preventing water loss to help maintain long-lasting hydration and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

    The eye cream also contains Eminence Organic’s unique Smart Collagen+ Complex, blending:

    • Botanical collagen from yeast, which has a smaller molecular structure than animal-derived collagen, making it more recognizable to skin
    • Marine algae to increase firmness and bring long-lasting hydration
    • Bulbine leaf, which activates type 1 collagen, according to Eminence

    For best results, apply to the entire eye area twice daily, patting gently with fingertips until fully absorbed. Leave on.

    Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream here.

    Marine Flower Peptide Concentrate

    This cream gel acts as a plumper and filler, thanks to the brown algae. Suitable for all skin types, this lightweight formula helps skin look firm and targets visible signs of aging, giving a revitalizing boost that reveals smooth, more supple-looking skin. 

    It contains botanical peptides from rice protein to reduce the appearance of fine lines and leave the skin looking energized, and blue-green algae extract, a natural retinol alternative that reduces the appearance of wrinkles without harmful side effects. Finally brown algae extract (from Pelvetia canaliculata) lends skin a firm, supple appearance.

    To use, apply 2-3 pumps to cleansed skin once or twice daily. Temporary, mild tingly is normal. Leave on. Follow up with a moisturizer.

    Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Concentrate here.

    Marine Flower Peptide Lip Serum

    Like the concentrate, the lip serum plumps and fills with the help of brown algae (Padina Pavonica this time). Reach for this silky serum to reveal smoother, plumper-looking lips while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the lips and surrounding area. 

    In addition to the brown algae extract, this formula derives its peptides for skin from rice protein to reduce the appearance of fine lines and leave lips looking energized. Botanical collagen from yeast helps give skin structure, working in tandem with the botanical hyaluronic acid, which binds to water to smooth and plump the skin. Brown algae extract (from Padina pavonica) helps the skin look firm, elastic, and hydrated.

    To use, dispense a small amount of product and use the oval tip applicator to massage the serum into lips and surrounding area. Leave on, and reapply as often as needed. You can wear this on its own or under a lip balm or lipstick.

    Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Lip Serum here.

    Want all three of these incredible products? Purchase the Plumping Peptide Collection for $161  (Special savings of $53.)

    For Radiant Skin at 50 and Beyond

    While the collection above is for those 30 and older, the two products below were formulated for clients age 50 and older who may already be experiencing a loss of collagen in the form of deep lines and wrinkles.

    Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream 

    This rich, velvety overnight essential is formulated specifically for delicate, crepey skin. Lock in moisture and smooth, hydrate, and tone while you sleep. Botanical peptides from rice protein and from the superfood sacha inchi give skin a firmer, lifted appearance, minimizing wrinkles. Blue-green algae extract acts as a natural retinoid-alternative to further minimize the look of wrinkles.

    For best results, apply a layer over the entire face, neck and décolleté area and leave on. For extra hydration at night, apply a light layer of the Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm on top.

    Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream here.

    Marine Flower Peptide Serum 

    A client favorite, this potent gel serum delivers concentrated plant peptides and botanicals to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for visibly smoother, plumper and more youthful-looking skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, but was formulated for aging skin, with Smart Collagen+ Complex to rejuvenate the complexion while unique algae extracts increase firmness and provide long-lasting hydration.

    Smart Collagen+ Complex contains:

    • Botanical collagen from yeast, which has a smaller molecular structure than animal-derived collagen, making it more recognizable to skin
    • Marine algae to increase firmness and bring long-lasting hydration
    • Bulbine leaf, which activates type 1 collagen, according to Eminence

    The formula also features botanical peptides from rice protein, blue-green

     algae extract as a natural retinoid-alternative that reduces the look of wrinkles, and nutrient-rich red algae extract, packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino-acids to reduce visible signs of aging.

    To use, apply a thin layer over the entire face on clean, dry skin. Layer a lipid-rich serum, if desired, and moisturizer on top.

    Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Serum here. 

    In Closing,

     

    We can’t stop time. But we can age with radiance, allowing our nourished skin to glow even as we grow older. These carefully formulated skin care products — backed by science showing the benefits of peptides for skin — can help you look radiant at every age.

    Wondering which product to try first? 

    Book a virtual skin care consultation with botanical skin care specialist Jessica Goneia. Jessica is a knowledgeable guide who can offer recommendations specific to your skin type and the environmental stressors you face day to day. She’ll follow up with samples delivered to your mailbox! 

    Request a virtual skin care consultation.

    5 Best Natural Skin Care Products: From Summer to Fall

    These are Jessica’s five favorite natural skin care products for the transition from summer to fall — all from Eminence Organics.

     

    We’ve featured many amazing natural skin care products on this blog over the last year. With fall around the corner, I wanted to highlight five client favorites that will help skin recover from any damage that occurred over the summer and transition seamlessly into your autumn and winter skin care routine. I always like to help you shop smart so there’s no need to worry that you have products sitting unused.

    Bamboo Firming Fluid

    As the name suggests, the Bamboo Firming Fluid helps achieve tighter-looking skin. It’s great for normal to dry skin, and especially mature skin. The product’s namesake, bamboo, brings antioxidants, proteins, and vitamins to the mix — nourishing skin as the retinol alternative tightens.

    The plant-based Natural Retinol Alternative supports aging skin with benefits similar to retinol (a synthetic derivative of Vitamin A):

    • Increases skin healing
    • Promotes healthy cell function
    • Smooths uneven skin texture
    • Minimizes fine lines & wrinkles
    • Keeps skin firm and plump

    All this, without the unwanted effects reported with regular retinol use — redness, irritation, UV sensitivity, peeling, and itching.

    Eminence Organics’ Natural Retinol Alternative Complex uses a blend of chicory root and tara tree extract and was developed by scientists from Pfizer. Chicory root increases cellular turnover with oligosaccharides that stimulate skin cells’ healing response, helping your skin shed dead layers more efficiently and replace them with healthy new cells. This process activates collagen and elastin production to soften fine lines. Mixed with tara tree extract, this Natural Retinol Alternative increases collagen levels by 25% in just 6 days!

    Order Bamboo Firming Fluid, here.

    More Products Like This: A Natural Retinol Alternative for Beautifully Aging Skin

    Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster-Serumnatural skin care products

    This extra-strength brightening serum from Eminence Organics is great for hyperpigmented skin (skin that looks darker than the skin around it, typically on the forehead, cheeks, neck, above the upper lip, and on the backs of the hands). It contains all natural skin care products.

    Licorice extract contains liquiritin, a compound that helps disperse and remove melanin in the skin. It can help prevent new dark spots from forming, while fading existing ones. Licorice also contains antioxidant-rich compounds that benefit the skin. And it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce swelling and redness. 

    Eminence Organics’ Natural Hydroquinone Alternative is made from African potato and tara tree. It offers the same skin-lightening properties as over-the-counter hydroquinone without the safety concerns, and it’s safe for all skin colors.

    This serum also has lactic acid to gently exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells. It’s a common ingredient in products to treat hyperpigmentation and age spots, and it’s gentler than many other acids used in skin-care products. 

    The Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster-Serum also contains a trademarked concentration of “GigaWhite” that’s derived from well-researched plant extracts to brighten skin, including mallow, peppermint, primrose, lady’s mantle, and more. This serum is a Tyrosinase inhibitor, which means it blocks the enzyme that destroys healthy melanin production.

    Purchase the Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster-Serum.

    More Products Like This: Our Favorite Natural Products For Hyperpigmented Skin

    Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil

     

    There’s talk of regular mask wearing again, with new variants of COVID spreading and a new school year upon us. 

    While there are steps you can take to avoid breakouts, you could follow every recommendation and still get maskne. To prevent it, pay special attention to exfoliation and hydration.

    Cue Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil, one of my favorite natural skin care products for deep hydration. The main ingredient, camellia oil, is pressed from the seeds of Camellia oleifera, better known as the plant that gives us tea. The precious oil is prized around the world for being highly moisturizing, revitalizing, and rejuvenating.

    natural skin care productsThis luscious, solid face oil also includes crushed pink tourmaline, a gemstone that encourages positive thoughts. 

    Another prized ingredient in this moisturizing blend is marula oil, which contains up to 60% more antioxidants than Argan oil. It also has antimicrobial properties, making it a perfect option for anyone dealing with maskne. Marula oil is rich in fatty acids and combats visible signs of aging due to drying environmental stressors.

    The final ingredient in this luscious formula is hemp seed oil that’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants and can improve the appearance of aging.

    Add our Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil to your Skincare Routine!

    More Like This: How To Treat Maskne + 3 Tips For Preventing It

    Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel 

    This Eminence Organics exfoliating peel gets its name from acai berry juice, rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, and vitamins to improve skin tone. Best for normal to dry or mature skin types, this firming solution will hydrate as it exfoliates, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

    Supporting ingredients include: 

    • Grapefruit, packed with antioxidants and vitamin C to tone the skin.
    • Goji, a source of antioxidants and carotenoids. 
    • Lactic and glycolic acids, gentle and rejuvenating exfoliants that bring firmer looking skin.
    • Noni fruit reduces the look of inflammation and the appearance of wrinkles.
    • Sweet pea to improve skin elasticity and firmness.

    Regular use of this peel will visibly increase skin’s firmness, restore its elasticity and reveal a smoother, softer, younger looking complexion.

    Please note: Although this peel features natural skin care products, after using it skin will be more sensitive to the sun. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product.

    Order the Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel.

    Strawberry Rhubarb Masque

    Natural skin care products

    Astringent strawberries gently exfoliate with naturally occurring salicylic acid, while rhubarb nourishes with antioxidant-rich vitamins. 

    Hyaluronic acid from marshmallow plant extract binds moisture at the molecular level to smooth and plump the skin, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in tissue throughout the body, and is quite gentle on the skin. A quick review of its benefits:

    • Maintains hydration levels, giving skin a naturally radiant glow.
    • Protects against fine lines and wrinkles.
    • Supports the repair and regeneration of skin cells.
    • Helps maintain healthy stem cells.

    ​​Although our bodies produce their own hyaluronan, adding natural skin care products with hyaluronic acid to your routine can amplify its complexion-improving benefits. Our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid as we age, and the molecule is also degraded by exposure to UVB rays. A topical solution can help keep skin looking youthful, and may even help speed recovery from breakouts.

    Finally, shea butter seals in moisture with its triglycerides and fatty acids, softening and soothing the skin.

    Purchase the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque.

    More Like This: Benefits Of Hyaluronic Acid For Skin: 3 Plant-Based Solutions

    In Closing,

    Late summer is a great time to help skin recover from seasonal stressors, whether that was a bit too much sun or a mask-related breakout. These natural skin care products will also transition well into fall and winter skin care routines, so you can continue to use them as the seasons shift. 

    Shop all Eminence Organics products, here. 

    Eliminate the guesswork with personalized skin care recommendations.

    Discover the path to your best skin with a one-on-one consultation. Licensed Esthetician Jessica Goneia is a knowledgeable guide who can offer recommendations specific to your skin type and the environmental stressors you face day to day.

    Schedule your virtual skin care consultation today!

    Calendula for Skin Care: A Must-Have for Sensitive Skin

    Calendula is a time-tested herb for skin. Learn why and uncover my three favorite calendula-based skincare products.

    In today’s frenzied world, we’re up against triggers that irritate and inflame our skin every day. Pollution. Ultraviolet light. Even the food we eat can be a culprit. Over time, inflammation can dull our natural radiance. A normal part of aging? Sure. But by using calendula for skin care, we help stave off some of that damage.

    Calendula (calendula officinalis) is a particularly good fit for sensitive or inflamed skin, and can help prevent other issues like acne, fine lines, or hyperpigmentation. In this post, I’ll explore three benefits of calendula for skin: its antioxidant constituents, anti-inflammatory effects, and skin-soothing properties. I’ll also share three products with calendula that I often recommend to my clients, and the reasons they’re effective (as usual, there’s special bundle pricing at the end!). 

    A few interesting facts about Calendula officinalis 

    • This cheerful yellow flower is a member of the Asteraceae family (also home to daisies and sunflowers).
    • You may know calendula as pot marigold, a sunny flower that’s as useful as it is beautiful — attracting pollinators even as it keeps aphids away from other plants. 
    • Outside the garden, Calendula officinalis can soothe minor skin irritations and skin disorders, making it a perfect plant to try if you want to improve the overall appearance of your skin. 
    • The earliest known records of calendula show its traditional use as a medicinal herb. One of these, Andrea Cesalpino’s De plantis libri XVI (1583), says, “it is called Calendula in the vernacular, because it blooms monthly.” But I’m not sure this is to be taken literally, since I harvest the flowers every morning!

    Why Use Calendula For Skin Care?

    So why would you want to put products made with this flower on your face on a regular basis? Three reasons. 

    Antioxidant Constituents

    Calendula’s antioxidant constituents neutralize free radicals, protecting the skin from the oxidative damage that breaks down collagen and speeds aging. Oh, and because it contains antioxidants, calendula is also being studied for its potential ability to prevent cancer. (No big deal, right?)

    Finally, the same flavonoids that offer antioxidant support play a role in the soothing power of calendula for occasionally irritated skin (more on that later).

    Anti-Inflammatory

    I’ve experienced the anti-inflammatory powers of calendula first hand. Years ago, I slathered sunscreen on 

    my daughter after handling some irritating plant oils in

    the garden. She broke out in a rash — but after washing with a calendula cleanser and applying calendula oil, it was gone in 10 minutes.

    Studies reinforce my personal experience, suggesting that calendula extracts have anti-inflammatory properties. Because inflammation can contribute to breakouts and inflamed skin conditions, regular use of calendula can be a first line of defense against minor skin concerns. 

    Calendula preparations can also be used topically to minimize inflammation from acne and to soothe irritated tissue. There is also some evidence that calendula cream or ointment is effective in treating radiation dermatitis.

    Personally, I haven’t seen evidence that calendula is skin-firming in itself, but it does have a preventative benefit on fine lines and wrinkles. When we minimize inflammation in the skin, we keep our skin barrier healthy, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.  

    Skin Soothing

    Calendula has a long history of use in enhancing the body’s natural ability to recover from minor wounds. Although a systematic review found weak evidence of this traditional use, it concluded not that calendula was ineffective but that more research was needed. In one promising clinical trial, calendula significantly sped the body’s natural healing response after C-sections. This ability makes calendula ideal for acne-prone skin.

    Botanical Skin Care Featuring Calendula

    Below are three products that all take advantage of the benefits of calendula for skin. All are from Eminence Organics, a line of plant-based products that combines biodynamic farming practices with the latest research in skin care. 

    What’s biodynamic farming? It’s in the same constellation as organic and regenerative farming — but goes a little further. Seeds are planted and crops are harvested according to moon phases. Farmers regenerate soil using crop rotation, composting, and interplanting. They also save seeds. Generally, the farm is considered a living, self-sufficient system within an ever-changing cosmos. Demeter is the official certifying body for biodynamic products, and two of the three products in this collection are certified by the agency.

    Eminence Organics never uses parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, propyene glycol, or animal testing. And thanks to these high standards, they consistently produce award-winning results. Each of the products below has won at least one industry award — those are listed when you click through to the product descriptions.

    Sea Buckthorn Masque

    Vitamin-rich sea buckthorn meets carrot juice and

     calendula, protecting skin with antioxidants and soothing dry, sensitive skin. Restorative jojoba oil revitalizes the

    appearance of the skin, leaving it balanced and hydrated without clogging pores. This is a balancing and

    conditioning masque for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

    To use, mix a small amount of product in your hand with a few drops of water and apply evenly over the entire face. Include the neck and the décolleté if desired. Allow to dry for 10-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or a face cloth, and apply your favorite serum and moisturizer. (Keep reading for a moisturizer containing calendula!) Recommended use is 1-2 times per week.

    Purchase the Sea Buckthorn Masque here.

    Apricot Calendula Nourishing Cream

    Relieve dehydrated and sensitive skin with apricots, echinacea, and aloe. Apricot replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier. Calendula calms and protects with antioxidants. Yarrow soothes and rejuvenates. This powerful combination will support your skin’s natural healing capacity while flax seeds regenerate and revitalize to produce younger-looking skin.

    To use, apply a layer of moisturizer over the entire face and neck area. Leave on. For a lighter application, emulsify a small amount of moisturizer in your hand with a few drops of water, tonique, or serum. For extra hydration, apply a serum underneath, or the Rosehip + Lemongrass Repair Balm on top.

    Purchase the Apricot Calendula Nourishing Cream here.

    Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser

    Chamomile gives this gentle cleanser its name, but 

    calendula oil plays a strong supporting role in calming the skin and providing antioxidant protection. Arnica helps with delicate capillaries, grape leaf extract boosts the

    antioxidant content, and rosemary rejuvenates and soothes. This calming cream cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin that is prone to redness.

    To use, dispense half a pump onto finger tips of freshly washed hands. Apply directly to dry skin. Add a bit of water to finger tips if desired and massage cleanser onto your

    face in a circular motion, covering the face and neck for 1-3 minutes. Completely remove by splashing with water or using a damp face cloth. Finish with an application of toner. (Stone Crop Hydrating Mist is a revitalizing and

    healing toner for all skin types, particularly uneven skin.)

    Purchase Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser here.

    Ready to see the benefits of calendula for skin care?

    Purchase the Soothing Calendula Collection for $122 (Special Savings of $40)! 

    Calendula for skin is a wonderful herb

     

    Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Skin: 3 Plant-Based Solutions

    What is hyaluronic acid, and why do people use it? Given the complex and, well, acidic sounding name, it might come as a surprise to hear…

    What is hyaluronic acid, and why do people use it? Given the complex and, well, acidic sounding name, it might come as a surprise to hear that hyaluronic acid (HA) occurs naturally in tissue throughout the body, and is quite gentle on the skin. In fact, it plays an important role in tissue health from eyes to joints. 

    You might even say everyone uses HA, because our bodies make it. But many 

    people supplement their skin care routine to maximize the complexion-improving benefits of hyaluronic acid.

    Because hyaluronic acid is degraded by exposure to UVB rays — along with things we have less control over as we age, like our levels of estrogen and progesterone — topical supplements can increase your skin’s resilience to 

    everyday stressors, slow the signs of aging, and may even help skin recover from breakouts.

    Read on for more specific benefits of hyaluronic acid and to learn how it works. Or skip ahead to see the three plant-based hyaluronic acid products I recommend to my clients (and a sweet price on a special bundle!). 

    My daughter, Julia, during berry season at Stony Creek Farm.

    Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for the Skin

    1. Maintains hydration levels, giving skin a naturally radiant glow. 

    Also called hyaluronan, this molecular chain of sugars (a glycosaminoglycan if you’re feeling fancy) can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water! 

    It uses that water to lubricate and cushion the body’s various tissues. In skin, the extra moisture is recognizable as the glow of youth — though other notable benefits of hyaluronic acid, like cellular regeneration and healing, play important roles in said glow, too.

    In the skin’s outer layer, the epidermis, hyaluronic acid works its wonders from between cells as part of our extracellular matrix. This matrix fills the space from cell to cell, offering structural support and aiding in cellular functions. 

    More moisture between cells means firmer, more luminescent skin. And the amount of moisture the extracellular matrix can hold is directly linked to the quality of the hyaluronic acid between your cells. 

    2. Protects against fine lines and wrinkles. 

    Beneath the visible epidermis, hyaluronic acid lubricates and protects proteins in the dermis, including collagen. Like HA, collagen gets a lot of attention for its ability to plump skin and ease joints. The two are active in many of the same processes, from wound healing to tissue regeneration, and work together in both the dermis and epidermis to keep skin structured, hydrated, and healthy. 

    Collagen lends firmness, but HA can increase the stability and elasticity of collagen. Aging skin is associated with deteriorated collagen and loss of moisture from degraded HA, and research suggests that their functionality is intertwined — damages to one can impact the other.

    3. Repair and regeneration.

    Hyaluronic acid supports the repair and regeneration of skin cells and helps maintain healthy stem cells. From its position between cells, this molecule plays an important role in tissue repair and regeneration, helping to regulate inflammation and cell migration as part of the body’s innate tissue repair and regeneration processes. Additionally, hyaluronic acid supports stem cell functions — skin stem cells remain active in the renewal and repair of skin throughout your life.

    4. Regulates inflammation and promotes healing, including acne lesions.

    Expanding on the functions of repair and regeneration, hyaluronic acid is active in the body’s response to damaged tissue. It helps regulate both the onset and reduction of tissue inflammation, changing actions according to its molecular weight. (So cool!) At a low molecular weight, hyaluronic acid encourages inflammation as a first response to injury. And at a high molecular weight, it lowers inflammatory and immune responses. 

    Hyaluronic acid also aids in the coordinated movement of cells during 

    healing, and in the development of new blood vessels. These three processes — inflammation, cell migration, and angiogenesis — constitute the body’s main phases in healing wounds. 

    Because it is naturally occuring and supports the body’s own healing mechanisms, hyaluronic acid is suitable for even sensitive or acne-prone skin, and may help reduce inflammation in lesions, and promote efficient healing. 

    3 Ways to Supplement HA Topically

    The plant-based products below offer the benefits of hyaluronic acid sourced from marshmallow plants. All three are from Eminence Organic Skin Care, a line that pairs the latest in scientific findings with ethically sourced botanicals for deeply nourished skin and a natural glow you’ll want to share with the world.

    Firm Skin Acai Cleanser

    This Eminence Organics cleanser gets its name from acai berry juice, which is rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, and vitamins to improve skin tone. Hyaluronic acid from marshmallow plant extract binds moisture at the 

    molecular level to smooth and plump the skin, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. Finally, nutrient-rich sea buckthorn berry protects skin’s moisture barrier, helping to further diminish wrinkles.

    To use, mix a pea-size amount of the product with water in hands and pat on skin with your fingertips, covering the face and neck, for 1–3 minutes. Remove with a damp face cloth and apply toner. (Try the Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist for a collagen boost.)

    Purchase the Firm Skin Acai Cleanser.

    Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum 

    Formulated to rehydrate dry skin, vitamin-rich strawberries and rhubarb work in tandem with botanical hyaluronic acid in this serum from Eminence Organics. Astringent strawberry helps tighten pores. Strawberry also contains natural salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation and brightening. Rhubarb contains vitamin C and antioxidants to help stave off oxidative damage, while aloe vera soothes and refreshes. Hyaluronic acid from marshmallow plant extract replenishes hydration between cells for dewy-looking skin.

    To use, apply a thin layer over the entire face, or apply to areas in need of hydration 1-3 times per day. Because HA is a glycosaminoglycan, a chain of sugars, the Strawberry Rhubarb Serum can be sticky! I recommend it mixed into a moisturizer. For summer, try the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer or Calm Skin Chamomile Moisturizer.

    Purchase the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum. 

    Strawberry Rhubarb Masque

    Astringent strawberries gently exfoliate with naturally occurring salicylic acid, while rhubarb nourishes with antioxidant-rich vitamins. Marshmallow-derived hyaluronic acid plumps skin for a replenished, more youthful appearance. Shea butter, high in triglycerides and fatty acids, seals in moisture, softening and soothing the skin.

    To use, combine a small amount of mask with a few drops of water in your hand. Apply evenly over the entire face as well as the neck and décolleté if you wish. Allow mask to dry 5-10 minutes then gently remove in a circular motion with a lukewarm face cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clear water.

    Purchase the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque.

    Purchase the Berry Hydrating Collection for $108 (Special Savings of $36)! 

    In Closing,

    Although our bodies produce their own hyaluronan, adding natural hyaluronic acid to your skin care routine can amplify its complexion-improving benefits. HA production dwindles as we age, and the molecule is also degraded by exposure to UVB rays. A topical solution can help keep skin looking youthful, and may even help speed recovery from breakouts.

    If you have questions about hyaluronic acid or would like to find the most direct path to better skin, I also offer one-on-one consultations. During these, I give personalized recommendations for high-quality products tailored to your lifestyle and needs. I even mail samples so every purchase can be made with confidence!

    Click here to schedule a virtual consultation.

    Purchase the Berry Hydrating Collection for $108 (Special Savings of $36)! 

    Acne Prone? My Top 3 Product Picks with Tea Tree Benefits for Skin

    If you’re interested in natural products for acne-prone skin, then learning about tea tree is a great first step.

    Is it overly dramatic to call acne the worst? OK, maybe a little. Still, heading into your day knowing any first impressions will be made with blemished, irritated skin would make even the most confident among us want to hide beneath piles of concealer and foundation. And for adults with problem skin, the frustration can be double: pimples and wrinkles, seriously? Fortunately, there are high-quality botanical solutions that can help. If you’re interested in natural products for acne-prone skin, then learning about tea tree benefits for the skin is a great first step.

    I’ve seen formulas containing tea tree oil work first hand. In fact, I prefer it to benzoyl peroxide. Read on to find out why — and to see three plant-based products I recommend to clients with acne-prone skin.  (I’m offering a special price when you buy all three together!)  Note to teens and their parents: Although this post was written with adults in mind, this collection is also great to integrate into a teen acne-care routine.

    Introducing: Tea Tree

    Before we get too far along, what is a tea tree, and how do we get its oil? Melaleuca alternifolia is indeed a tree. Native to Australia, it has a long history of use as a topical antiseptic with a variety of antimicrobial activities. 

    The essential oil of tea tree is extracted by steam distilling the leaves, a process that separates the volatile oils from the water and plant matter that make up the bulk of the leaf. Like any essential oil, it takes a lot of plant matter — typically hundreds of pounds — to produce even a small amount of essential oil. This is one reason why it’s important to purchase from ethical, transparent sources and use essential oils sparingly.

    Tea Tree Benefits for Skin

    Acne is a common reason people turn to tea tree oil. Others include dandruff, athlete’s foot, and lice — all testaments to its antimicrobial reputation. Precisely because it can be abrasive, tea tree might not be the best choice if you have sensitive skin, or conditions like eczema or rosacea. However, as part of a formula there can be exceptions, such as the Facial Recovery Oil I’ll talk about later in this post.

    Tea Tree vs. Benzoyl Peroxide

    Despite its popularity, I’m not a fan of benzoyl peroxide (BP) in the treatment of acne, in part because I know there are effective botanical solutions with fewer side effects. Dryness, pruritus (itching), and sensitization are all common side effects of BP.  And if you have darker skin, UV exposure can cause your skin to hyperpigment when using BP. 

    In “Essential Oils for Healthy Skin,” a course I completed with renowned aromatherapy educator Robert Tisserand, I learned that tea tree oil is effective on Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), and Staphylococcus epidermidis. It’s also anti-inflammatory.

    Research has supported these claims. In a randomized, single-blind clinical trial comparing 5% tea-tree oil gel to 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion, both solutions significantly reduced the number of lesions for participants with mild to moderate acne. The tea tree oil took a bit longer to begin working, but performed at the same level as its more mainstream counterpart, benzoyl peroxide. 

    In a separate randomized clinical trial, this one double blind, tea tree oil went up against a placebo. Participants using the tea tree product reported 3.55 times the improvement in number of lesions, and 5.75 times the reduction in severity. Side effects with both groups were similar and tolerable. In short, tea tree was several times more effective than a placebo, without greater side effects. The researchers concluded that topical 5% tea tree oil is an effective treatment for common, mild-to-moderate acne.

    Some say more rigorous research is needed before we have a final answer on whether tea tree oil works. Until that research is done, I’ll rely on my experience seeing it work time and time again, especially as part of a well-crafted formula.

    How Does it Work?

    A lab analysis showed three constituents in tea tree oils — alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol, and  terpinen-4-ol — act against  acne-causing microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus, Staph. epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes. In contrast, cineole, used as a control in the analysis, was inactive against these organisms. This study supports the use of tea tree oil in the treatment of acne, and shows that the oil carries multiple active constituents.

    These are my top three product picks from Eminence Organics that take advantage of tea tree’s benefits for skin. 

    Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser

    Clear Skin Probiotic CleanserThis cream-gel cleanser from Eminence Organics soothes, tones, and purifies oily skin with tea tree oil and cucumber, and that’s just the beginning of why it’s won a few awards for best acne cleanser and face wash. Sweet almond milk and yogurt keep skin moist while helping reduce signs of problem skin and breakouts. With naturally occurring lactic acid, the yogurt is also gently exfoliating, helps lighten dark spots, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Astringent willow bark extract works to remove excess oil and tighten pores. Finally, BioComplex: a booster of antioxidants, coenzyme Q10, and alpha lipoic acid help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the appearance of skin (because it’s not just teenagers who get acne).

    To use, dilute a pea-size dollop of cleanser with water in your hands. Gently massage onto your face and neck, moving your fingertips in a circular motion for 1-3 minutes. Remove the cleanser with a damp face cloth and apply toner. (If you’re looking for a toner, Mangosteen Revitalizing Mist is great for microcirculation.)

    Purchase the Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser. 

    Clear Skin Probiotic Masque

    Clear Skin Probiotic Mask Eminence OrganicThis mask from Eminence Organics has been winning awards — especially for acne-prone skin care — since 2011. Yogurt brings the probiotic behind this mask’s name. As with the cleanser above, yogurt also offers a gently exfoliating lactic acid. Cucumber tones the skin for a radiant and clear complexion. This formula also contains replenishing shea butter, soothing calendula, and drawing kaolin clay, while taking advantage of tea tree benefits for skin. BioComplex reappears here for a boost of antioxidants, coenzyme Q10, and alpha lipoic acid, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving the overall appearance of skin.

    To use, blend a small amount of mask in your hand with a few drops of water. Apply evenly over the entire face — include your neck and décolleté if you wish. Allow the mask to dry for 10–20 minutes, then gently scrub it off in a circular motion with a lukewarm face cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and apply your moisturizer.

    Purchase the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque. 

    Facial Recovery Oil

    Facial Recovery Oil by Eminence OrganicsThis toning, hydrating formula calls on clary sage oil to calm irritated skin and balance oil production, and olive oil to hydrate and soothe. Antioxidant-packed sage leaf extract rejuvenates and tones, renewing sensitive and aging skin. Ylang ylang cleanses, calms, and balances. Tea tree here is not a key ingredient, but plays a supporting role in the formula. This means Facial Recovery Oil works for my clients with rosacea and disturbed skin barriers who sometimes get some acne lesions. The oil is made with plants grown at certified biodynamic farms, and is suitable for all skin types. Like the others, it’s offered by Eminence Organics, and I’d be remiss not to mention it’s won its own share of awards.

    More importantly, though, everyday people love this oil. As one reviewer wrote, “I have acne-prone, yet dry, skin that’s all over the place, depending on makeup, hormones, etc. This oil (nicknamed ‘My Precious’) corrects my acne!!” 

    To use, apply 2-3 drops to your face and neck with circular motions, working your way from the center to the sides of the face.

    Purchase the Facial Recovery Oil.

    Another way to use this is to practice self massage with a gua sha facial stone. 

    Quick primer on gua sha: This practice comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine, and involves “scraping” the skin. It is believed to boost blood circulation and ensure one’s qi is flowing, free of blockage. In the beauty world, the gua sha tool is used less vigorously to avoid marks — but regular gua sha facial massage is believed to promote lymphatic drainage and stimulate circulation, decreasing puffiness and brightening the complexion. 

    Unsure how to use Gua Sha?  Follow along in my 8-minute Gua Sha video tutorial. 

    Tea Tree Collection Bundle Eminence Organic

    This technique can be used several times per week, in the evening, using the Facial Recovery Oil for slip. If you’d like to check with a skin care specialist before trying gua sha massage on acne-prone skin, see the link below to schedule a consultation with me.

    Purchase a gua sha tool made from ethically sourced Jade, here. 

    In Closing,

    As much as it might seem like it, you’re not alone in your struggle with problem skin. And no matter your age, there are plant-based solutions formulated to help you. That includes tea tree benefits for skin — and so many other botanicals reaching out to support you, too.

    Purchase the Tea Tree Collection for just $131 (savings of $43) here. 

    And if you’d like personalized recommendations from a skin care specialist (the most direct path to your best skin) schedule a consultation with me.