What Is A Natural Sunscreen?

Warm weather is right around the corner! Here are the natural sun-protective products I recommend most.

Do you want the benefits of an everyday sunscreen, but you’re over chemical additives? You might be wondering, “What is a natural sunscreen, exactly?” What’s in it, and how does it work?

Or maybe you’ve scanned the ingredient lists of so many products that claimed to be natural, but weren’t, that you’re skeptical about whether a fully natural option even exists.

I’ve been there, and many of my clients have, too.

In this post, I’ve outlined the three natural sun-protective products I recommend most to my clients, along with the ingredients that make each one effective (don’t miss the special bundle pricing at the end!). And I’ll answer that all-important question, “What is a natural sunscreen?”

Sun Protection 101: UVA, UVB, and Full-Spectrum Coverage

A full-spectrum sunscreen protects against two kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA rays, which can bring premature wrinkles and age spots; and UVB rays, which can lead to sunburns.

I recommend products that protect against both UVA and UVB for a couple of reasons. While UVB rays impact the skin’s outer layer, the epidermis, UVA rays can penetrate through the epidermis, damaging the “living tissue” of the dermis. In addition, overexposure to either type of UV light can contribute to skin cancer. A full-spectrum option offers the widest range of benefits.

What Is a Natural Sunscreen?

Sunscreens work in one of two ways: chemically or physically. Chemical sunscreens protect the skin by absorbing and neutralizing the sun’s rays. Physical or “mineral” sunscreens employ minerals, like zinc oxide, that reflect UV light and create a barrier for the skin.

Chemical sunscreens may contain — you guessed it — chemicals that you don’t want on your skin, or in your bloodstream. At the top of this list is oxybenzone. Oxybenzone has been reported to cause allergic reactions, both on contact with skin or upon exposure to light. Additionally, it is a suspected endocrine disruptor. In the environment, oxybenzone has been linked to the bleaching of coral reefs. The FDA has proposed removing oxybenzone and several other compounds from its list of sunscreen ingredients generally recognized as safe and effective, but a final decision has not been made.

Chemical sunscreens can also irritate the skin, increasing inflammation and exacerbating skin disorders, like acne and rosacea.

Finally, other chemicals added to some sunscreens can increase the toll on the body. These include parabens and phthalates, which are both endocrine disruptors; and propylene glycol, which can enhance the absorption of other chemicals.

So, what is a natural sunscreen and how do they work?

Mineral sunscreens, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, reflect UV rays away from the skin instead of absorbing and altering the rays. Because they work this way, mineral sunscreens keep skin cooler while offering full-spectrum protection.

Mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide may have additional advantages, since zinc serves as a cofactor in the body’s production of collagen and is believed to benefit acne-prone complexions.

Last but not least, mineral sunscreens may be kinder to coral reefs than their chemical counterparts.

In addition to the physical mineral barrier, other natural compounds can play a supporting role in protecting the skin from sun damage.

Antioxidants for Sun Exposure

Sun exposure plays a role in oxidative stress to the skin by stimulating the body’s production of free radicals. Free radicals are natural byproducts of oxygen metabolism, but when the body produces them faster than they can be neutralized, free radicals build up, causing inflammation and DNA damage to the cells. This contributes to photoaging (the loss of collagen and elastin) and hyperpigmentation, not to mention skin cancer.

Antioxidants, which are found in vitamins C + E, raspberry seed oil, leafy greens, and lilikoi, among other things, give a missing electron to the free radical, helping the body neutralize and reverse the damage.

Paired with sunscreen, antioxidants give your skin the upper hand against sun damage. While sunscreen prevents skin damage as the first line of defense, antioxidants act as backup, helping the body neutralize free radicals and repair any damage that does occur.

Vitamin C

Research suggests that Vitamin C specifically can help combat oxidative stress and photodamage. It has been shown to stabilize messenger RNA in collagen production, helping the body make more collagen protein to repair damaged skin. Vitamin C also increases the production of connective tissue cells called fibroblasts, which the body typically makes less of with age. Further research suggests that vitamin C stimulates DNA repair. Studies have shown that vitamin C applied topically for at least 12 weeks can decrease wrinkling and tissue damage, and give skin a softer, more youthful appearance.

Combined with Vitamin E, Vitamin C is even more effective in preventing photodamage. Together, the two are more protective than either vitamin alone, and this is true whether taken orally or applied topically. That’s evidence of the kind of research behind Eminence Organics products, like Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum, that make this line a powerhouse for keeping skin healthy and youthful. (Get special pricing on the serum when you purchase as part of our Sun Defense Collection, below.)

Read more from our blog archives: How to Harness Vitamin C Benefits for the Skin.

Lilikoi
Lilikoi is a member of the passion fruit genus (Passiflora spp.) Oil extracted from the seeds contains naturally-occurring Vitamin C and antioxidants that can help reduce visible signs of aging. This is one of the unique ingredients in the Eminence Organics sunscreen products (keep reading for details).

Botanical Skincare Products for Sun Protection

These are the three natural sun-protective products I recommend most to my clients. They’re all from the Eminence Organics line, which employs cutting-edge botanical findings to create formulas that protect your skin from everyday stress.

Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40

This mineral sunscreen by Eminence Organics was formulated for daily use to protect and improve the appearance of skin exposed to UV light, blue light stress, and pollution. Its active sunblock is zinc oxide, with the added benefits of lilikoi seed oil and cocoa seed extract, making this our go-to for protection from blue light. Satsuma mandarin peel extract minimizes the effects of aging due to pollution, while larch tree moisturizes and protects dry skin from dehydration and environmental stress.

Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer is suitable for all skin types. To use, apply liberally 15 minutes before sun or blue light exposure and reapply at least every 2 hours. This is a fabulous natural product for anyone who works in front of a computer or attends lots of Zoom meetings!

Order Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40, here.

Lilikoi Mineral Sport Sunscreen SPF 30

Formulated for the face and body, this SPF 30 sport sunscreen from Eminence Organics is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. With sun protection from zinc oxide, Lilikoi Mineral Sport Sunscreen also contains lilikoi seed oil and raspberry seed oil — both rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants to slow the appearance of aging. Finally, aloe vera soothes, moisturizes, and softens the skin. What is a natural sunscreen? You’re looking at it!

Apply a liberal layer over the face and body 15 minutes before sun exposure and leave on. Reapply at least every 2 hours. Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating and immediately after towel drying.

Order Lilikoi Mineral Sport Sunscreen SPF 30, here.

Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum

In this unique formula by Eminence Organics, stabilized Vitamin C from lemon and grapefruit reduces redness and soothes inflammation. Meanwhile, Vitamin C salt (sodium ascorbyl phosphate) turns into Vitamin C on contact with the skin, minimizing degradation of antioxidants before use. Finally, botanically-derived ferulic acid stabilizes the antioxidant benefits of Vitamin C, an extra measure to keep the formula potent.

Vitamin E is sourced from avocado to nourish the skin, while kale, spinach, and broccoli sprouts bring high antioxidant content to help improve the appearance of skin elasticity and hydration. Citrus fruit oils of lemon and grapefruit tone and refresh the skin while helping to balance oil production. Finally, hydrolyzed botanical hyaluronic acid, from grass extract, hydrates deeply to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

To use, apply 4-5 drops directly on the skin and pat on. Follow with a moisturizer like the Eminence Organics Rosehip Whip Moisturizer, and then layer with the Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40.

Order Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum, here.

Save with a Bundle

Save by purchasing all three of these Eminence Organics products together in the Sun Defense Collection!

Begin your morning face-care routine with the Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum, then protect with Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40. On days when your body will be exposed to the sun, add the water-resistant Lilikoi Mineral Sport Sunscreen SPF 30.

Use the following link to purchase these three items for $173 (savings of $57)!

Purchase the Sun Defense Collection, here.

Lifestyle Tips

In addition to natural skincare products, you may also want to consider simple preventative measures to decrease your exposure to direct sunlight, such as wearing a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirt and avoiding long amounts of time in direct sunlight. However, keep in mind that researchers actually recommend 10-30 minutes of sunlight daily, depending on your skin’s sensitivity, for adequate Vitamin D production. Like most things, it’s all about moderation.

In Closing,

In today’s world, our skin is exposed to stress and damage both outdoors and in — whether from the sun, pollution, or artificial blue light. Complicating matters, conventional sunscreens may exacerbate skin disorders, disrupt hormonal balance, and negatively affect the natural world.

Fortunately, there are mineral and plant-based formulas that protect the skin and increase resilience to skin damage. These solutions slow aging and may reduce the risk of some skin cancers.

To learn more about your skin type, or develop a specialized routine specifically for your skin and lifestyle, schedule a virtual skincare consultation. For a video tutorial on best practices when using a natural sunscreen, watch this video.

Our Favorite Natural Products for Hyperpigmented Skin

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a number of factors, including sun exposure, hormones, diet …

Hyperpigmentation is a term that describes areas of skin that appear darker than the skin around it. The color can vary, and the patches typically occur on the forehead, cheeks, neck, above the upper lip, and on the backs of the hands. Fortunately, the dark patches of hyperpigmented skin do not hurt or itch, they’re purely a cosmetic discoloration.

Risk Factors for Hyperpigmentation

The biggest risk factor for developing hyperpigmented skin is sun exposure. If you’re on medications that make you extra sensitive to the sun, then you’ll want to be particularly thoughtful about limiting your time in the sun. Everyone should ideally take preventative measures against sun damage by applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and wearing sun-protective clothing, like wide-brimmed hats and loose, long-sleeved shirts.

In addition to sun exposure, a few other factors that increase the risk for hyperpigmentation are:

Environmental pollutants. People in highly industrialized societies are seeing an increase in the development of hyperpigmentation.
Diet. A diet high in sugar and inflammatory foods triggers free radicals, causing glycation that can damage melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. Hyperpigmented spots resulting from glycation are called “age spots.”
Hormonal fluctuation. Pregnancy and contraceptives have both been connected with an increased risk for developing hyperpigmentation. In fact, hyperpigmentation during pregnancy is so common that it even has a nickname, “the mask of pregnancy.” Fortunately, hyperpigmentation related to hormonal changes typically fades naturally a few months after the baby is born or after contraceptives are stopped.
Skin color. Black women and others with melanin-rich skin are at an increased risk of developing hyperpigmentation. This is because dark skin contains more melanin, which is more reactive to inflammation and injury.
Skin inflammation. Acne and ingrown hairs can cause temporary hyperpigmentation. This is called “post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation,” and it responds well to chemical exfoliants like the Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel that activate cellular turnover.

It’s not at all uncommon for women to ask me about products for hyperpigmented skin when they visit Jessica’s Apothecary for facials or waxing. As a former sun worshipper with Greek lineage, I, too, am at an increased risk for hyperpigmentation. I’ve done my fair share of research over the years—both for my clients and myself—and here are the ingredients and products I trust most.

Natural, Skin-Brightening Ingredients

Many of the products used to lighten hyperpigmented skin are harsh, and they are not always safe for darker skin or for long-term use. Fortunately, there are also natural, botanical-based products on the market, including the Bright Skin Collection from Eminence Organics, that can help lighten existing hyperpigmentation and are safe for all skin types.

Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that bleaches the skin and is used in many over-the-counter products for hyperpigmentation. There are safety concerns with hydroquinone, however, which is why I was excited to see that Eminence Organics includes a natural alternative in their Bright Skin Collection!

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

Licorice root is a skin-whitening ingredient that’s used throughout Eminence Organics’ Bright Skin Collection. Licorice extract contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove existing melanin in the skin. This means it helps prevent new dark spots from forming, while also fading existing ones. Like many plant-based extracts, licorice contains antioxidant-rich compounds that benefit the skin. It’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce swelling and redness.

The last natural, skin-brightening ingredient that’s used in both the Bright Skin exfoliating peel and boosting serum is lactic acid. Lactic acid helps 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.

These natural ingredients are used in select products throughout the Eminence Organics’ Bright Skin Collection, which I turn to often when working with clients who have hyperpigmented skin.

Below, I’ve outlined the 3-step protocol that I turn to when treating hyperpigmentation. (All of these products except for the Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel are safe for pregnancy.)

Step 1: Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel

As winner of “Best Brightening Peel” Green Beauty Awards, 2016, this sought-after natural product features all three of the ingredients highlighted above, along with mandelic acid, azelaic acid, and daisy blossoms, all of which help to brighten the appearance of pigmentation. I recommend this product for hyperpigmentation in general, and also for post-inflammatory pigmentation from acne lesions and ingrown hairs.

To use, dispense one to two pumps of the solution on one of the cotton rounds that’s provided with purchase. Apply in circular motions on clean skin, covering your face and neck. Use up to three times per week or as required. Purchase yours here, or keep reading for special savings if you purchase all three of these skin-brightening products together!

(If you’re pregnant and interested in a peel, I recommend scheduling my “Organic Facial for Expecting Mothers,” which includes even gentler skin-brightening ingredients that are free from glycolic acid and salicylic acid.)

Step 2: Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster-Serum

This extra-strength brightening serum can be used alone or with the peel to boost its effectiveness. It includes the three natural ingredients highlighted above, plus a trademarked concentration of “GigaWhite” that’s derived from well-researched plant extracts, including mallow, peppermint, primrose, lady’s mantle, and more. This serum is also a Tyrosinase inhibitor, which means it blocks the enzyme that destroys healthy melanin production.

To use, apply a thin layer over your entire face, or apply to the affected areas, 1-3 times per day. Purchase yours here, or keep reading for a special savings!

Step 3: Bright Skin Overnight Correcting Cream

This mattifying moisturizer is perfect for all skin types, including acne-prone skin, and is designed to address the look of hyperpigmentation while you sleep. In addition to licorice root extract, the Natural Hydroquinone Alternative, and GigaWhite, it also includes punarnava root extract, which helps even out skin tones and reduces the look of dark spots. Blended with bearberry extract and moisturizing shea butter, it’s no wonder this correcting cream was the winner of the “Brightening” category at the Best Product Awards, LNE & Spa, 2018.

To use, apply a thin layer over your entire face and neck area and leave it on. For extra hydration, I suggest layering with the Lotus Detoxifying Overnight Treatment on top.

Purchase your Bright Skin Overnight Correcting Cream here, or keep reading for special savings if you purchase all three of these skin-brightening products together!

Bonus Step 4: Bright Skin Masque

If you want to treat yourself to a special skin-brightening ritual, then try the Bright Skin Masque by Eminence Organics. It features bearberry extract, an antioxidant that helps lighten the appearance of dark spots, in addition to GigaWhite, licorice root extract, and the Natural Hydroquinone Alternative. This powerful masque is a wonderful boost to your regular skincare routine.

To use, emulsify a small amount in your hand with a few drops of water or Birch Water Purifying Essence. Apply evenly over your entire face, neck, and decollete. Allow masque to dry 10-20 minutes and then gently remove with a lukewarm face cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Purchase yours here.

Purchase the peel, serum, and overnight moisturizer together to save!

These skin-brightening products are most effective when used together. Start tackling your dark spots—and save money with bundle pricing—by purchasing all three of these products together!

Buy your skin-brightening, 3-piece set here for only $153 (valued at $203).

Professional Facials for Hyperpigmentation

Many of the facials that we give at Jessica’s Apothecary feature skin-brightening products to help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. In addition to the products above, we also offer medium-depth peels using Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and Mandelic acid.

See your esthetician for a facial and to discuss the steps necessary to prepare your skin for a peel.

Schedule your Organic Facial here!

Natural Products to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

The best way to prevent hyperpigmented skin is to reduce sun exposure and wear sunscreen (my favorite is the Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 by Eminence Organics).

Vitamin C is photoprotective, which means it helps our bodies cope with the damage caused by sunlight. You could consider applying a Vitamin C-based product before you spend time in the sun (my favorite is the Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum by Eminence Organics).

Eminence Organics’ Rosehip Triple C + E Firming Oil is another great choice when it comes to preventing hyperpigmentation. It protects the body’s melanin-producing cells from something called “glycation,” which is when proteins and sugars cross-link to form non-functioning structures. One of the causes of glycation is having too much sugar in the diet, resulting in premature aging and skin damage. Pair this natural product with a healthy diet that limits sugar.

If you’re regularly exposed to environmental pollutants, then you may want to consider Eminence Organics’ Microgreens Detox Collection. This powerful trio harnesses the action of microgreens to cleanse and protect the skin from environmental stressors. It features the Stone Crop Cleansing Oil and the Lotus Detoxifying Overnight Treatment.

In Closing,

Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that happens to people around the world. Fortunately, you can take preventative measures by limiting sun exposure and sugar intake and by applying preventative products, like those mentioned above.

When signs of hyperpigmentation do occur, there are plant-based products that will help you lighten the appearance of dark spots without exposing yourself to potentially harmful chemicals.

If you have any questions about hyperpigmentation or would like to schedule a virtual consultation to discuss your skin’s specific needs, then contact Jessica directly at contact@jessicasapothecary.com or 734-604-5971.

Purchase your Skin-Brightening Trio for a special price, here.

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492142/
https://www.eminenceorganics.com.au/blog/ingredients-for-hyperpigmentation/

How to Harness Vitamin C Benefits for the Skin

Vitamin C has a long-standing reputation as one of the strongest antioxidants in skincare.

Continue reading “How to Harness Vitamin C Benefits for the Skin”

Stone Crop

Eminence Organics has a NEW Summer launch. Can we ever have too many Stone Crop products? The 4 H’s remind us that Stone Crop can be beneficial to us all summer:

-Hydrating
Stone Crop adds hydration when the summer sun takes moisture from our skin

-Healing
Stone Crop has regenerative properties that heal damaged skin

-Hyperpigmentation
Stone Crop brightens and lightens pigmented skin

-Heat
Stone Crop removes heat from sun exposed skin

My review of the new Stone Crop line:

Everyone knows I love scrubs and oils. My new farmhouse has a well and septic system. So, while I say goodbye to water bills I also had to say goodbye to my handmade scrubs because we want to reduce how much oil we put into the septic. At first I was skeptical about the new Stone Crop Revitalizing Body Scrub because I love my abrasive salt scrubs and this one by Eminence is so gentle. My skin gets very cracked and dry looking when I go out into the sun. How was this water based exfoliant going to cut it? I was pleasantly surprised that when I applied it correctly (to dry/slightly damp skin) that the fine sugar and rock salt refined my skin surface quite nicely. Aiding in the smoothing and brightening effects are other fabulous ingredients like Green Tea, Turmeric and Lemon Peel.

After rinsing off a scrub it’s a MUST to apply a lotion or oil. Really, the skin’s barrier function stays much stronger if you apply a lotion or oil after EVERY shower or bath. I prefer oils because their large molecular structure makes them more occlusive to better protect the skin against moisture loss. The Stone Crop Body Oil tends to be a little light for me, even though it has nourishing Avocado and Rosehip oils, making it perfect for those that like a “non-greasy” oil. But mixed with the Stone Crop Contouring Body Cream, I get the perfect amount of hydration!

Pro Tip from our Lead Esthetician and resident Eminence Organics Training Specialist, Tiffany: Add a few drops of the Stone Crop Body Oil to your bath. The Arnica soothes sore muscles and when you emerge you feel “magical”.

For those of you who love a lightweight body lotion, the Stone Crop Contouring Body Lotion is lovely. The Caffeine and the Algae doesn’t hurt either, for those of us with some cellulite.

I give the new summer launch a thumbs up, but only time will tell if my cellulite agrees.

4 Helpful Tips to Transition to Summer Skin Care

May is the time we want to see our clients transitioning to SUMMER PRODUCTS! We have 4 helpful hints for your spring/summer home care regimen:

1. Add a sunscreen
Hopefully everyone is getting outside more often now so if you are not already using a sunscreen, now is the time to make that change. Our Eminence Organics sunscreens are a moisturizer and sunscreen all in one! Use alone or on top of a serum (we prefer the latter).

2. Lighten it up
As the humidity in the air increases (we are in Michigan here where winters are very dry and summers quite humid), your products do not need to be as rich and occlusive. Lighten the lipid content in your cleansers, serums, and moisturizers. Your Esthetician can help you make smart purchasing decisions.

3. Use your winter day cream as your night cream
One of our favorite tips to help you avoid buying a whole new summer regimen is to use your winter day cream (unless it has an SPF in it) as your night cream. Even on those warm summer nights your skin’s oil production decreases by 50% so don’t forget to wash the day away and use a night cream.

4. Be less aggressive
Most people get enough sun exposure to warrant avoiding chemical peels, high percentage glycolic acid formulations, and strong vitamin A products in the summer. Using such products makes your skin more vulnerable to the damaging rays of the sun. Unless you are extremely diligent about protecting your skin from the sun consider using a gentle glycolic, mandelic acid, lactic acid, or enzymes instead.

Spring-Summer Skin Regimen

This just in from our Esthetician, Tiffany Genter.

“As we move into spring, now is a great time to adjust your skin care regimen for warmer and sunnier weather!! While I will be heading into winter when I get to Australia it will still be very sunny and the temperatures will be in the 70’s. Here is a look at what I am taking down under with me and how I am prepping my skin for the change in season:”

Morning:

Eminence Bamboo Firming Fluid – it has a Natural Retinol Alternative minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while the coconut water tones and balances pH.

Eminence Rosehip Triple C + E Firming Oil – while I usually like a daytime moisturizer this oil absorbs really quickly. The rosehip oil improves moisture and the seabuckthorn oil brightens.

Jane Iredale Power-Me SPF Dry Sunscreen- since my daytime moisturizer/oil doesn’t contain a SPF, I will be using this dry sunscreen to protect me from the harsh rays. It is a broad spectrum, physical barrier SPF 30.

Eminence Bright Skin Moisturizer, SPF 32 – I will be taking this SPF with me for my sister. She loves this since it not only minimizes her hyper pigmentation but also protects her from the sun!

Night:

Eminence Lavender Age Corrective Night Concentrate – this not only softens fine line and wrinkles but adds hydration along with antioxidants to help with free radical damage.

Eminence Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream – since my skin is always dry this moisturizer is a staple for me year round. The argan oil, shea butter and evening primrose soften and hydrate my skin, especially if I accidentally get too much sun.

Eminence Clear Skin Targeted Acne Treatment – this amazing spot treatment will definitely be going with me. This contains tea tree, salicylic acid, and cucumber to reduce redness and inflammation and kill bacteria.

And of course I will be using the Eminence Tropical Vanilla Body Sunscreen SPF 32 so I don’t get burned while I am there.

Jessica’s Vacation Essentials

After a family vacation to Alabama and Florida, I have compiled a list of what I now covet as my VACATION ESSENTIALS!

1. Eminence Organics Tropical Vanilla Body SPF 32
This product is easily my number 1 pick! My whole family loved it. I was prepared with my California Baby Sunscreen that I have used for the past 5 years but I ended up using this one exclusively. It rubs in really well and Simon loves the vanilla scent. I used it on my kids face and body. My husband and I used it on our whole body (see face product next). I kept one in the beach bag and one in the car and applied it as hand and body lotion the entire trip.

2. Eminence Organics Bright Skin Moisturizer with SPF 30
Both my husband and I used this product on our faces every day. It is the perfect moisturizer for normal to combination skin even in the humid southern climate. The stone crop plant in the product lightens pigmentation naturally.

3. Apivita Exfoliating Face Cream with Olive and Lavender
When vacation includes camping, hiking, or beaching nothing makes the skin feel fresher than this product. The combination of olive seeds, salicylic acid, lavender and grape seed oil deep cleanse and cool the skin. It eliminates “summer bumps” that sometimes occur on my skin when I am traveling. I recommend using this every morning while on vacation.

4. Glymed Plus Mega-Purifying Cleanser
Skin always needs balance and this creamy cleanser is my staple. Use every night to break down dirt and oil that builds up on your skin, without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. The lavender is cooling for sun exposed skin.

5. Jessica’s Apothecary Coconut Lime Whip

After every shower applying Jessica’s own Coconut Lime Whip is vacation in itself. With organic, unrefined coconut oil and essential oils of lime, bergamot and grapefruit this whip smells like key lime pie! Coconut is the most cooling oil available, and rich in essential fatty acids. Your skin needs it!

6. Eminence Organics Aloe Mint Hydrating Cream Gel-Body
For the record I did not get burned on my vacation. I reapplied diligently and am proud of it! There was a member of my family that did not reapply. I won’t mention names. Playing in the ocean got the best of him. Applying this aloe gel cooled the skin and prevented peeling.6. There are 3 night time moisturizers that all make the list. I used all 3. Take your pick:

Eminence Organics Lavender Age Corrective Night Concentrate
This is the night moisturizer I ended up using most of the vacation. The Argan Oil was just the right amount of nourishment for the skin without being too oily. And again, Lavender is the best ingredient for after sun.

Eminence Organics Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturizer
I always have this product on hand in the event of breakouts or “summer bumps”. For acne or oily skin this is essential.

Glymed Plus Intense Peptide Skin Recovery Complex
Addressing fine lines and wrinkles is still a priority while I am on vacation! I used this as a serum under my sunscreen but you can also use it as a night time moisturizer. In addition to 5 Peptides that reduce wrinkle depth, this product contains sea whip to help reduce inflammation, licorice and bearberry to lighten pigmentation, ceramides to improve hydration, and vitamin E to fight free radicals. Last on the list but probably the most potent, comprehensive skin care product in our Apothecary.

I hope you find this information helpful. As always let us know if you have any questions.

Coconut Oil & Coconut Water for Summer Skin

This summer your skin will not forgive you if you don’t add at least 1 coconut product to your regimen. These warm, sunny spring days are just the beginning. Coconut is the queen of cooling, and its oil, water, and “milk” provide a plethora of benefits. Coconuts are high in free-radical fighting antioxidants so the damage caused by the sun (and harsh chemical sunscreens) can start to be mended with coconut.

Coconut Oil (the result of the crushed and pressed fruit) provides nourishing fatty acids to the skin that protect it from moisture loss. It contains 3 fatty acids- Capric, Caprylic, Lauric- that provide antimicrobial and disinfectant properties. It is also high in skin healing Vitamin E.

Coconut Oil can be found in: Eminence Coconut Milk Cleanser, Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, Coconut Cream Masque, Bamboo Firming Fluid.

Coconut Water (the juice on the inside of the coconut shell) is high in Vitamin C, toning to oily skin, hydrating to dry skin, and rich in plant hormones called Cytokinins, which strengthen connective tissue and keep the skin elastic. Coconut Water is also an aide in combating acne because it is anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and may promote scar healing.

Coconut Water can be found in: Eminence Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, Bamboo Firming Fluid, Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist, Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum, and Coconut Firming Body Lotion.

Coconut Milk (the liquid that comes out of the grated meat of the fruit) is high is fatty acids that can soothe the symptoms of many skin issues, includes eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Coconut Milk moisturizes the skin and cools it after sun exposure.

Coconut Milk can be found in: Eminence Coconut Milk Cleanser, Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist, Coconut Cream Masque, and Coconut Firming Body Lotion.

The skin experts at Jessica’s Skin & Body specialize in matching the right level of fats and water in a product to the needs of your skin. No matter how dry or oily your skin, there is a coconut product that is right for you.

Summer Skin

Summer is here and with that comes changes in your skin!

Here is an easy to follow guideline to treatments and products that can help to address some of your summer skin issues:

Increased Oil Production

TREATMENT-

Clarifying Acne Treatment using Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid to exfoliate and manage oily skin.

HOME CARE- Glymed Sulphur Mask, Glymed Serious Action Mask, Glymed Astringent no 2, Eminence Pink Grapefruit C Gel, Eminence Tomatoe Oil-Control Gel, Eminence Eucalyptus Cleansing Concentrate, Eminence Citrus Exfoliating Wash

Small Summer Bumps (pustules)- on lower half of face, due to heat, humidity, and sun

TREATMENT-

Clarifying Acne Treatment using Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Tea Tree oil.

1 Hour Organic Facial with the Clear Skin Mask, containing clay, yogurt, tea tree oil and cucumber.

HOME CARE- Glymed Anti-Aging Exfoliant Mask, Eminence Clear Skin Mask, Eminence Eucalyptus Cleansing Concentrate, Eminence Stone Crop Hydrating Mist

Sun Damaged, Devitalized Skin

TREATMENT-

Vitamin C & Sea Treatment using Vitamin C and seaweed.

1 Hour Organic Facial using the Stone Crop plant to lighten and hydrate.

Illuminating Antioxidant Treatment using enzymes, peptides, botanicals and antioxidants.

HOME CARE- Glymed Hydrating Enzyme Mask, Glymed Anti Aging Exfoliant Mask, Glymed Stem Cell Power Serum, Glymed Mega Purifying Cleanser, Glymed Gentle Facial Wash, Eminence Stone Crop Gel Wash, Eminence Stone Crop Hydrating Mist, Eminence Stone Crop Masque, Eminence Stone Crop Moisturizer, Pevonia Vitamin C Concentrate