Author: admin

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

If vitamin C were a candidate for a job, it would have an impressive resume of accomplishments. The ingredient is often put on a pedestal, but it’s for good reason: Per WebMD, it’s “necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues.” So how does that apply to the skin? Essentially, it’s capable of fixing damage quite efficiently, whether you’re dealing with premature aging, sun spots or a lackluster skin tone (the list goes on.) 

You may have your vitamin C applications down pat when it comes to the skin on your face, but it’s just as essential to bring the same opportunity to the rest of the skin on your body. NativaSPA’s limited-edition Brightening Body Lotion is up for the task—according to the product description, the formula “maximizes the Vitamin C in Strawberry, which protects the skin with exceptional antioxidant action, and brings out the life of the skin.”

NativaSPA Strawberry Brightening Body Lotion

Yes, you read that correctly—strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, and bring a surge of antioxidants to the skin. By regular use of the body lotion, you should begin to see a range of positive differences, not limited to restored luminosity, increased collagen production (less sagging skin) and a more even tone. The dermatologist-tested formula doesn’t stop there, though. It also contains the brand’s signature pure quinoa oil, which has been shown to boost firmness and tightness across the skin within a month of use.

RELATED: This Mascara Is So Volumizing, Reviewers Warn: ‘Don’t Get Lash Extensions Before You Try This’—Snag It For $7

Beyond it’s skincare benefits, the lotion also offers a long-lasting scent to the skin that the brand describes as the juicy scent of strawberry with a touch of floral and woody notes. As one reviewer wrote, “[It] smells wonderful and goes on the skin smoothly.”

All the more better, NativaSPA is currently running special promotions for shoppers allowing you to save on additional products beyond the brightening body lotion: Score its Plum Body Oil for 20 percent off, it’s Shea Ultra-Moisturizing Body Butter for 20 percent off. Add all three to your cart so you’re stocked up for the summer.

Stretch marks are a very common skin concern. And while these scars do not cause any long-term health risks, not everyone is comfortable showing them off. If you are bothered by your stretch marks and looking for help to make them appear less noticeable — or you want to reduce your chances of developing more — we’ve got you covered. 

What Are Stretch Marks? | Who Is Susceptible? | Where Are They Most Likely To Appear? | How Do I Prevent Stretch Marks? | How Do I Treat Stretch Marks?

What Are Stretch Marks? 

Stretch marks are long, narrow lines or stripes that develop when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. This abrupt change can cause the collagen and elastin, which support the structure of our skin, to rupture. As the skin heals, stretch marks may appear. Many factors can determine their size, color and texture, including what stage they are at in their development and which part of the body they’re on. They often start out red and then fade over time to lighter silver or purple shades. Not everyone is prone to these narrow bands on their skin, but they are very common, more so among women. 

Who is Susceptible?  

Anyone can develop stretch marks, though they appear much more often in women. While rapid weight fluctuations tend to be the most common cause, genetics can play a role too. They often occur during life events that trigger body size changes, including pregnancy, puberty and other times when weight is gained or lost quickly. With that in mind, some people choose to treat skin when anticipating such changes, during pregnancy, for example. Keeping the area well hydrated with oils and creams, and adjusting certain lifestyle factors can help to lessen the chances that stretch marks will develop.

Where Are They Most Likely to Appear?

Stretch marks can develop on many different areas of the body. The spots that are most prone are those where weight is gained, like the stomach and breasts during pregnancy or biceps when bodybuilding. It is also common to develop stretch marks on the thighs, the back, the buttocks and the hips during a growth spurt or weight gain.

How Do I Prevent Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can appear seemingly out of nowhere, but there are some predictors that these pesky lines will develop. While getting ahead of them isn’t always possible, it’s worth noting that certain lifestyle modifications are believed to stop them from showing up, or at least slow them down. Some of them include:

Staying hydrated: Drinking enough water may help keep your skin hydrated and soft. Soft skin doesn’t tend to develop stretch marks as easily as dry skin does. 
Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet: According to Healthline, eating foods that boost skin health may help. The suggested nutrients include: Vitamins C, D and E, zinc and protein. Maintaining a healthy diet can also decrease the chance of rapid weight loss or gain. 
Exercising regularly: For weight maintenance and overall health, sticking to an exercise routine can be helpful in preventing stretch marks. Rapid weight gain (or loss) is a common cause of stretch marks, so staying within a healthy range is one of the ways you can reduce the chances of developing them. 
Moisturizing and massaging your skin: Keeping skin moisturized and hydrated is recommended. Massaging a cream or oil into the skin in areas where stretch marks may occur can strengthen the skin barrier and play a big part in avoiding stretch marks altogether. 

How Do I Treat Stretch Marks? 

Once they have developed, stretch marks will not go away. They are essentially “scars” caused by damage to the collagen and elastin fibers. But as with many other types of scars, the look of stretch marks can be significantly reduced with regular topical application of certain ingredients, including Vitamin E, arnica, Vitamin A, jojoba, sunflower oil and rosehip oil. If you’re looking to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, here are the Eminence Organics products we recommend: 

Facial Recovery Oil: This deeply nourishing and hydrating oil will leave the skin looking soft and smooth. New stretch marks will benefit from this oil because of the healing properties contained within. 

Apricot Body Oil: With jojoba and other essential oils that work to leave skin feeling irresistibly soft and supple, this ultra–hydrating and soothing massage oil is a great option, whether you’re looking to fade stretch marks or not.

Stone Crop Body Oil: This lightweight body oil absorbs quickly and leaves a matte satin finish. Rosehip oil, arnica and Vitamin A and E-rich avocado oil offer a well-rounded list of helpful ingredients. 

Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil: Packed with Vitamins C and E, plus jojoba oil and skin-smoothing rosemary leaf extract, your skin will feel smooth, hydrated and plumped.

Coconut Firming Body Lotion: This moisturizing and nourishing cream contains our Natural Retinol Complex, which can firm and smooth the appearance of skin. 

Monoi Age Corrective Night Body Cream: Two great ingredients,  jojoba oil and Vitamin E-rich argan oil, help this ultra-rich body cream reveal softer, smoother and more youthful-looking skin. There are also some spa treatments that have been shown to improve the appearance of stretch marks. These include laser therapy, microneedling and chemical peels.

Have you treated your stretch marks and what have you found that helps minimize the look? Comment below or check out social media to join the chat.

If you frequently wear makeup, you’re likely to have a collection of makeup brushes lying around that serve a variety of purposes. From foundation, to blush, to contour, to eyeshadow, to eyeliner, it seems like every step of our beauty routine requires a different style of brush (or maybe you’re a one-brush-fits-all kind of gal—I’m not judging!).

But here’s the thing—do you know how often you should be cleaning those brushes? It’s a well-known fact that the majority of people are not washing their makeup brushes nearly as often as they should. Bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil can build up fast, resulting in clogged pores, increased breakouts, and even potential health risks. Dirty makeup brushes can cause serious infections like fungal infections, E. Coli, or staph infections. This is why I recommend you clean your brushes once a week for clearer and healthier skin (and never share your brushes with anyone else!). Additionally, frequently washing your brushes helps maintain their quality and keeps them soft!

There are designated products that can be used to clean your makeup brushes, and these usually do a great job. But, if the idea of spending more money on an extra product is holding you back, I have good news! Your facial cleanser can double as a makeup brush cleaner. Keep reading to discover a simple five-step process for cleaning your makeup brushes using an everyday cleanser.

Which Type of Cleanser to Use for Makeup Brushes

To clean makeup brushes, I recommend using a sulfate-free gel cleanser.

Gel cleansers are very straightforward and are meant to cut through oil and rinse away debris, which is perfect for makeup brushes. It’s also a nice bonus knowing your cleanser uses only skin-friendly ingredients.

To clean makeup brushes, my go-to is the Moisture Protecting Cleanser. It’s an effective, no-frills cleanser that does a great job of cleaning the skin while keeping it hydrated. It doesn’t contain any sulfates, which can be harsh or drying, so it’s gentle on both skin and makeup brush bristles.

A Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1:

Begin by filling a shallow bowl with warm water. Next, add 1 tablespoon of a gentle, sulfate-free gel cleanser.

Be sure to avoid the ingredients Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate as these harsh detergents may dry out the natural hair bristles.

Step 2:

Swirl your brushes in the bowl for 60 seconds. You should see the water lather up and turn dark in color from the makeup on the brushes. For a good lather, you can also gently massage the tip in the palm of your hand.

Step 3:

Drain the water and fill your bowl back up with warm water only. Once again, swirl your brushes around for 60 seconds. Repeat if necessary until the water is clear.

Step 4:

Remove your brushes and squeeze out any excess water. Then, wipe your brushes back and forth on a clean, dry towel to absorb as much moisture as you can.

Step 5:

Finally, lay your brushes on a clean paper towel and let them dry. I personally like to lay them out in a sunny spot since sunlight destroys bacteria and helps to dry your brushes faster!

At the end of the day, cleaning your makeup brushes could potentially be one of the most important steps in your beauty routine. Not only will it prevent undesired breakouts and infections, but it will also prolong the lifespan of your brushes, saving you money in the long run. Trust me, I know as well as anybody that beauty routines can become quite lengthy, but adding this one step to your routine can help ensure a flawless, healthy-looking complexion every time.



What About Makeup Sponges?

A lot of people (including myself) like to use makeup sponges to apply foundation. So, can you use your face cleanser to clean your makeup sponges? As tempting as it may be, I would not recommend it.

Because makeup sponges are absorbent, they’re much harder to clean than brushes are. Using a face cleanser can remove makeup and oil from the outermost layer, but it’s not really going to be able to get deeper into the sponge where a lot of bacteria are harbored.

Instead, I suggest using something stronger, like Dawn or a designated beauty sponge cleaner. These are stronger and have a bigger lather than face cleansers do. Just be sure to rinse and dry your sponge really well after cleaning it to make sure none of these strong cleaning products are deposited onto your skin.

Let’s not stop at makeup brushes. Keep reading to guarantee you’re washing your face the right way!

by Caitlin H,

May 1, 2023

If you’re like many of our customers, there’s a solid chance you have tried some weight loss plans in the past—and didn’t see the long-term results you desired. Yo-yo dieting is when you spend most of your life trying the latest fad diet, rapidly losing weight and gradually gaining it back. It’s a common mistake people who struggle with weight make.

Here’s the thing: The people who find lasting success do so by making it a lifestyle. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try a diet. Instead, it means you need to find a diet that works for you and sets you up to make eating healthy a standard part of your everyday life.

With that in mind, we rounded up 10 signs your diet is a dud. If you notice any of these things happening, you’re unlikely to stick with it and make changes that will last for the long haul.
 

1) It’s a complete reversal of your usual food.

Choosing a diet that completely eliminates all the foods you love will be challenging to follow. For example, if you typically eat meat and try a vegan diet, that’s probably not going to work. Don’t completely deprive yourself of the foods you enjoy most, particularly the healthy ones.
 

2) You feel hungry (and miserable) between meals.

If you’re constantly starving shortly after you eat a meal, you’re likely not getting the proper nutrition your body needs to sustain the diet.
 

3) You are bored out of your mind.

Constantly eating the same things over and over again is boring. And when you’re bored, that donut in the office becomes a bit more appealing every time you look at it. Chances are, you’ll cave — and the diet will go out the window, too.
 

4) You’re suffering from headaches and fatigue.

Believe it or not, headaches and fatigue may mean your body isn’t getting enough nutrition or water. You need a certain number of calories daily to keep your mind clear and focused, and your body energized. These physical signs are a good indication you’re not getting enough nutrition.
 

5) You have anxiety or fear about attending social occasions.

Get-togethers with friends, family, or co-workers typically occur with food and drinks. If you’re declining invitations to social occasions or worrying about attending because you’re afraid of the temptation, that’s not a diet you’ll stick with.
 

6) You’re going long stretches without food.

Some diets call for you to fast for an extended time each day. While this may work for some people, most find it difficult to sustain. You may feel tired, cloudy, or irritable if you go too long without eating.
 

7) You’re obsessing over every single thing you eat.

If you’re finding yourself constantly thinking about and tracking your food day in and day out, there’s a chance it might start interfering with the rest of your life and become an unhealthy obsession. Quality diets fit nicely into your busy lifestyle — they don’t become the focus of it.
 

8) You’re battling insomnia.

Proper nutrition makes a direct impact on your ability to sleep. Whether it’s from your stomach growling or a lack of nutrients, tossing and turning all night could be a sign your diet is a dud.
 

9) You’re having mood swings.

Ever heard of being “hangry”? Not eating right or consistently feeling hungry may lead to mood swings and irritability. A balanced, satisfied mood and mindset are critical to maintaining a diet.
 

10) You’re constantly having cravings.

Eliminating every food you love will likely cause cravings for them—and things you didn’t even know you liked. That’s a bad road to be on because you’ll likely give in to the cravings eventually or find yourself constantly miserable from feeling deprived.

Diet-to-Go isn’t about yo-you dieting. For over 30 years, we’ve created and delivered delicious, balanced meals controlled for portion size and nutrition to thousands of happy customers. We believe in a common sense approach to losing weight that ensures you won’t get bored and will gain the knowledge to eat well for the rest of your life.
 

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Author: Caitlin H
Diet-to-Go Community Manager

Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.

 

Healthy Sloppy Joes – The Real Food Dietitians

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If you’ve been struggling to get your glow back ever since winter ended, do not dismay! There’s a skincare solution out there for everyone, whether you’re dealing with dryness, dullness, irritation or whatever may be affecting your complexion. If your areas of concern involve dullness, visible signs of aging and hyperpigmentation, you’ve come to the right place.

Beauty Pie’s YouthBomb 360° Radiance Concentrate is here to give you the most glowy complexion, while also tackling other skin woes. Its proprietary blend—dubbed the Biolog-Elastic Complex—of 15 active ingredients is the star here. A phyto extract moisturizes and soothes, while a marine active promotes skin elasticity. There’s also a synthetic hexapeptide that brightens and provides antioxidant benefits, as well as an oat-derived molecule that does an incredible job of firming your skin. Not to mention, the formula relies on active marine biotechnology to restore, firm and strengthen your complexion. 

When using this concentrate, not a day should go by when your skin doesn’t look ultra-radiant and dewy. That’s what happens when you pick a top-tier serum formula that’s made with consultant dermatologist, Dr. Andrew Markey. The YouthBomb 360° Radiance Concentrate firms, resurfaces, brightens, tightens, hydrates and illuminates skin, per the brand. And it does all of this faster than you’d expect. Two shoppers claim they saw visible results in one week. 

“I’ve been using this for just over a week now and I can honestly say I have noticed a difference in my skin,” one wrote, “I’m lucky that I don’t have too many skin issues, but it has been looking a little dull lately, but since using this even I can see how much more glowy and luminous it is.”

Another five-star reviewer raved, “I’ve been using this for a week now and have really noticed a difference already. My skin tone is smoother and my pores are less visible. It actually does what it says in the tin!! Excellent.”

All of these amazing results from one bottle of serum? You’d better believe it! Grab this vegan, clean, cruelty-free concentrate to get glowing. Michelle Obama, Jennifer Coolidge and Gabrielle Union have all used Beauty Pie before, and if it’s good enough for these A-listers, it’s certainly good enough for you, too. Drop a bottle of this anti-aging essential into your cart, and save $10 on first orders with code SPRING10 (new members only). 

RELATED: Michelle Obama’s Makeup Artist Loves This Smudge-Proof, Long-Lasting Eyeliner 

As for application, rub it all over your face and neck in the morning and at night. Be sure to follow it with a moisturizer and also sunscreen (if using it in the morning). 

Another happy shopper wrote, “I love this! My second bottle, so I’m addicted. Does all it says in the blurb. A winner!”

And just because there were so many positive reviews that it was hard to choose only a few, another reviewer said, “YouthBomb 360° Radiance Concentrate Serum is another Beauty Pie item that I can’t live without. It’s a bit more expensive than typical Beauty Pie items, but I feel like it’s worth the price because it replaces a couple of other serums I was using and makes for fewer steps in my routine. It leaves my skin feeling fresh, plumped up and hydrated without being sticky. It also doesn’t make my makeup pill.”

What more do you need to know about the YouthBomb 360° Radiance Concentrate? As the reviews say, it’s a total winner, and you should incorporate it into your skincare routine as fast as possible.

Looking for a treatment that will give your Clients soft, smooth and perfectly hydrated-looking lips? Our Lip Trio may be the answer. This natural lip treatment offers visible results and an indulgent spa experience that your Clients will love. We’ll take a closer look at this lip protocol and explore why it’s a must-have addition to your spa menu. 

Causes of Dry Vs Dehydrated Lips | What Is The Lip Trio Protocol? | How To Perform The 3-Step Lip Trio Protocol

Dry Vs Dehydrated Lips

As a spa professional and skin care expert, it’s important to understand the causes of dry and dehydrated lips to address your Clients’ discomfort. After all, the lips are part of skin care too! While sometimes these terms get confused, dry lips and dehydrated lips have different causes and need to be addressed in different ways.  

Causes of Dry Lips

Genetics and lack of natural oils: Dry lips are a skin type, where the skin on the lips lacks natural oils and can feel rough, scaly or cracked. The skin on the lips is thinner than the skin on other parts of the body and, as a result, it has fewer oil glands to produce natural oils.
Exposure to cold, dry air: When winter comes around, the cold air and dry climate can cause the moisture in the lips to evaporate quickly, leading to dryness and cracking. 
Use of harsh or drying lip products: Certain lip products contain ingredients that can irritate some individuals who are already prone to dry skin. Ingredients include menthol, beeswax or paw paw, for example. 
Medical conditions: Skin conditions that cause dryness and inflammation, like eczema or psoriasis, can also affect the skin on the lips, leading to dryness and cracking.

Causes of Dehydrated Lips

Lack of hydration in the body: Dehydrated skin is a temporary condition where the skin lacks water or hydration. Dehydration can cause the lips to feel dry and tight. 
Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption: Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, which means they can increase the amount of urine you produce and cause you to lose more fluids, leading to all-over dehydration.
Medications: Some medications can also have a diuretic effect, which can lead to dehydration and dry lips.
Medical conditions: Medical conditions, such as diabetes, can affect the body’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dehydrated lips.

What Is The Lip Trio Protocol?

The Lip Trio is a three-step system that is designed to exfoliate, plump and hydrate the lips. It can be incorporated into any facial or spa service; It’s also a great retail item, as Clients can continue to use this trio at home to maintain results. The system includes three products:

Citrus Enzyme Lip Exfoliator

The Citrus Enzyme Lip Exfoliator is a gentle exfoliating scrub made with natural enzymes and Vitamin C to slough away dead skin cells and reveal smoother, softer lips. It is formulated with orange and lemon peel, both natural exfoliants and antioxidants rich in Vitamin C. 

Lip Comfort Plumping Masque

This luxurious lip mask is crafted with a blend of shea butter, avocado oil and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump the lips. It also contains paprika extract, which creates a natural flush and plumping effect on the lips.

Citrus Lip Balm

Indulge Clients with a petroleum-free, citrus-infused lip treat that combines the nourishing benefits of shea butter and sunflower seed oil to provide optimal hydration and a gorgeous shine to your lips. Our lip care formula is enriched with natural peptides that, with regular use, help to create a plumping effect that smooths fine lines and lends the lips a more youthful and voluptuous appearance.

One customer, Veronica R., left this review regarding the Lip Trio: “I am a believer! So, I was skeptical. My lips always tend to be dry. I have tried many different products which really haven’t made any difference. I went ahead and used this product together and was shocked to see how smooth my lips felt. It was amazing with just one application (used all three products per instructions).”

How To Perform The 3-Step Lip Trio Protocol

Step 1: Exfoliate

Remove any lipstick or foundation from the lip outline area using one of the following cleansers:

Apply a thin layer of the Citrus Enzyme Lip Exfoliator to the lip outline and lip surface. Allow to remain on for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove with a damp sponge and blot with a tissue or clean towel.

Step 2: Comfort

Following the lip exfoliation, apply a thin layer of the Lip Comfort Plumping Masque to the lip outline and lip surface. Allow the mask to penetrate for 5 minutes. Then remove the product with a damp sponge and blot it with a tissue or clean towel. 

Step 3: Plump And Hydrate

Apply the Citrus Lip Balm as the last step of the facial. If you’ve applied a moisturizer or the Sun Defense Minerals to the Client’s skin, you’ll want to apply the Citrus Lip Balm after these products. Apply it directly to the lips.

After Care

For best results, recommend the take-home retail Citrus Lip Balm product. Ask the Client to use it as often as required (up to a daily basis) so that they see the desired lip-plumping results they’re looking for.

Give it a try and see how it can benefit your spa and your Clients today. You can also find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner here.

From beauty to medicine, witch hazel is an ingredient with many uses and a long history. Before modern medicine, it was used to soothe wounds and promote healing. Fast forward a few centuries, and you might remember stories of people using Preparation H hemorrhoid cream—which contains witch hazel—to combat under-eye puffiness! (Spoiler alert: I don’t recommend this. The eye area is super sensitive and should only be exposed to products formulated specifically for this purpose.)

In the last few years, witch hazel has been relegated as an old-school ingredient that can cause dryness or irritation. It seems like everyone’s been made to fear this ingredient, but I think it’s just misunderstood! Witch hazel can have benefits for almost every skin type, it’s just about finding a well-formulated product. Witch hazel itself hasn’t changed over the years, but how we use it definitely has. Skincare products are now made to be much more gentle, with the skin’s protective barrier in mind. Thanks to more advanced extraction techniques, you can reap the therapeutic benefits of witch hazel without the drawbacks. Witch hazel is making a comeback, and it’s here to provide serious benefits in more ways than one! Keep scrolling to learn how it could benefit your skin (and how to avoid any possible downsides). 

What Is Witch Hazel, and Where Does It Come From?

Witch hazel, or Hamamelis Virginianal, is a tree extract commonly used in cosmetics. It is native to Canada and the Eastern United States, but globalization has made cultivation possible in Europe as well. Extraction is typically done by blasting parts of the tree (such as the leaves, bark, and roots) with carbon dioxide. This stressor causes the plant to excrete an oil, which then leaves behind a watery substance that is essentially witch hazel essence. This water or “essence” is what’s used in your cosmetics.

Witch Hazel has been around for hundreds of years, finding itself useful not only in skincare but also in wound healing. Native Americans used it to soothe wounds and irritation, and it’s now used as a vasoconstrictor in modern medicine.

When it comes to skincare, we primarily use witch hazel for its astringency effect. This happens because of molecules called tannins, which cause the proteins in the skin to tighten up. This helps tighten pores and is also what helps with healing.

Will Witch Hazel Dry Out My Skin?

Witch hazel’s astringent effect is exactly what makes people worry that it will dry out their skin. Many of us associate the word “astringent” with super drying toners of the 90s. The thing to understand is that if a substance is astringent, it really just means that it causes a slight contraction (aka tightening) of skin tissue when applied. People often associate this tighter feeling with dryness, but in this case, that’s not necessarily accurate. It’s true that if your pores are contracted, less oil will flow through them. But if you’re trying to control excessive oiliness, this is a benefit!

The thing about those toners in the 90s was that they often contained drying alcohols on top of being astringent. This was ultimately what dried out people’s skin and caused irritation. There was a time when so many of the clients who came to my spa were using a very popular 3-step skincare system that included an astringent toner. But on top of including drying alcohols, this toner also had acetone in it (yes, you read that right). I would literally use it to take off my nail polish as a way to demonstrate to clients how harsh it was.

The bottom line is that witch hazel is a great ingredient both for soothing and for reducing excessive oil production. As always, it’s all about finding a product that’s formulated properly.

What Should You Look For When Purchasing Witch Hazel Products?

When looking for products with witch hazel, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the extraction method can significantly affect its properties. Some extractions may involve alcohol or have a high alcohol content—it depends on the reason for extraction. This ultimately means some products will have alcohol on the ingredient list. So, the first thing to do when starting your search for the perfect witch hazel product is to check the ingredient list for drying alcohols such as SD alcohol 40 or denatured alcohol. Steer clear of these.  

Keep in mind that part of what gave witch hazel such an undeserved stigma back in the ’90s was that toners were made using it at (or near) a concentration of 100%. You don’t need to worry about that now. These days, when witch hazel is used in a product, it’s a small component of a product’s overall formulation. It’s only there to provide very mild astringency or anti-inflammatory properties. Most products these days also include hydrating ingredients, like glycerin, in conjunction with witch hazel. This creates a perfect balance and offsets any possible dryness. 

As I always say, you shouldn’t judge a product by its ingredient label! In most cases, a single ingredient doesn’t make or break a product. It’s all about the quality of an ingredient, how much of it is used in a product, and how it’s combined with other ingredients. 

Who Should Use Witch Hazel?

Due to the astringent effects of witch hazel, I largely recommend this ingredient for skin types 1-4. Those with oily and acne-prone skin are going to benefit the most from its oil-cutting capabilities. Since acne is an inflammatory condition, these skin types will also benefit from witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory properties. 

In addition to curbing oil production, don’t forget that oily skin types still need hydration. Here are five ways to safely hydrate acne-prone skin.

Now, this isn’t to say that those with dry skin can’t benefit from witch hazel as well. This multifaceted ingredient can also provide wonderful benefits such as antioxidant and soothing qualities, as well as those wound healing capabilities I mentioned earlier. It all depends on which percentage of witch hazel is present, as well as if there are any other ingredients added to help combat its drying effects. There are several formulas containing witch hazel that add ingredients like humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, etc.) to help attract water to the skin and keep it hydrated.

How Can You Incorporate This Ingredient Into Your Daily Routine?

Toner

The most classic method for delivering witch hazel to the skin is through a toner. A gentle leave-on formulation, like Balancing Skin Tonic, is a great option because molecules in water-based skincare products can penetrate deeper into the skin than molecules in thicker products can. 

Face Masks

If you’re not currently in the market for a new toner, there are plenty of other great ways to incorporate witch hazel into your routine. It can be a great addition to face masks. Witch hazel and other pore-purifying extracts work together in Energizing Cleansing Masque to leave skin feeling tighter, firmer, and refreshed. The combination of antioxidants and nourishing botanicals allows this non-drying, clay mask to deliver cleaner pores and more refined skin.

Moisturizer

Another great way to reap the benefits of witch hazel is through a moisturizer like Daily Mattifying Solution. The blend of witch hazel and hydrating ingredients is ideal for those with very oily skin, like Skin Type 1, who need hydration plus oil control.

If you were confused about some of the negativity surrounding witch hazel, I hope this post helps put your mind at ease! This ingredient has a long legacy in the skincare community and is just one of the many fantastic ingredients in any product formulator’s toolbox. It’s time to stop getting caught up in witch hazel’s troublesome past (and slightly spooky name) and start cheering on its well-deserved comeback.

Next, learn more about the most effective way to apply toner.

Delicious Recipes For Our Favorite Spring Fruits

by Caitlin H,

Apr 24, 2023

Spring is the most colorful time of year, and that’s especially true when it comes to spring fruits!

While you can find these fruits year-round in supermarkets, using seasonal produce tends to elicit the best-tasting results. You can also visit farmers’ markets to support local growers and get the freshest stuff available.

We love springtime and the colorful fruits that come with it. Now is the perfect time to try a new light, healthy snack or dessert that everyone will love!

Financial Analyst Loses 10 Pounds in One Month with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Apr 17, 2023

Hailey’s 32nd birthday weekend in February was filled with the kinds of things most people like to do on their birthdays — dinner and drink outings, celebrations with friends, and enjoying time with her fiancé.

But after that weekend, Hailey stepped onto the scale and quickly realized she had gained 5 pounds over those few days alone.

Find out how Diet-to-Go helped Hailey lose 10 pounds in 30 days!

10 Fun Fitness Ideas to Make Exercise Enjoyable

by Caitlin H,

Apr 10, 2023

Exercising can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when you go to a gym and see what looks like elite athletes pumping weights or pounding out mile after mile on the treadmill.

It’s okay. We get it. And you are certainly not alone. Thankfully, exercising can take place anywhere, anytime, and in all sorts of fun formats.

The Benefits of Staying Hydrated and How Much Water to Drink

by Caitlin H,

Apr 3, 2023

Water is an essential part of a healthy, well-rounded diet. In fact, studies show that hydrating often may slow the aging process and help you live longer. In addition to adding years to your life, there are also a host of other benefits of drinking water and staying well-hydrated.

So, how much water should you drink each day? 

Here’s the thing, it’s not a one-size-fits-all model. But, we can help you figure out what amount is right for you!

5 Weight Loss Tips That Fit Into Your Hectic Schedule

by Caitlin H,

Mar 27, 2023

Remember when it was just before the new year, and you were highly motivated to lose weight and get healthy?

Between balancing things like work, kids, social events, and everything in between, our hectic schedules often mean there’s not much time left for self-care or healthy habits, and that resolution might have fallen to the wayside.

But here’s the thing: Taking care of yourself ensures everything, and everyone else will get the best, most productive version of yourself.

How do you make taking care of yourself a priority again though?

7 Scientific Reasons You Should Try Meatless Monday

by Caitlin H,

Mar 20, 2023

Burgers, steak, lamb chops — red meat is a staple of the American diet.

While it may be unreasonable to cut it out of your diet completely, going vegetarian at least one day a week can go a long way toward improving your health. That’s why we outlined seven scientific reasons why you should try Meatless Monday and reap all the benefits of reducing your meat consumption.

Reverse Your Prediabetes With These 5 Tips

by Caitlin H,

Mar 13, 2023

Prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. It could be considered a blessing in disguise. Knowing that you have it allows you to make new, healthier choices to reverse the condition and hopefully help you avoid developing Type 2 Diabetes.

Simple Ways to Tell if Your Food is Nutritious

by Caitlin H,

Mar 6, 2023

Proper nutrition is one of the most important ways to ensure you lead a healthy, happy, long life. In fact, studies show that eating a balanced diet plays a role in all sorts of things. 

It can be challenging to know whether your food is nutritious. Labels can be confusing if you’re not a nutrition expert, and honestly, how many of us are? But don’t stress! Check out our easy to follow beginner’s guide to deciphering food labels.

8 Essential Elements for a Healthier Heart

by Caitlin H,

Feb 27, 2023

February is American Heart Month, an annual observance of the importance of cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association and all health providers use the month to remind us to engage in healthy habits that reduce our heart disease risk.

That’s why the American Heart Association (AHA) identifies these eight essential elements to better heart health. Read on to learn more!

Break That Snacking Habit with These Expert Tips

by Caitlin H,

Feb 20, 2023

It’s 8 p.m., and you’re enjoying your favorite TV show or cozied up on the couch with a good book. Then, you get up and find yourself standing in the kitchen, reaching for a handful of chips or a couple of cookies.

If this sounds all-too-familiar, you’re not alone. Mindless snacking is a habit many of us deal with daily, whether sitting at the office (or home office), perusing social media, or even snuggling up in bed.

Thankfully, there are ways you can cut back on snacking.

10 Delicious, Healthy Dinners to Wow Your Sweetheart

by Caitlin H,

Feb 14, 2023

Did you remember Valentine’s Day? If you or your sweetie are trying to eat healthily, why not keep the momentum going by whipping up a delicious dinner?

Want to try a new recipe to surprise your sweetie for Valentine’s Day (or any day)? We’ve got your covered with some tasty choices! Bon appétit!

7 Ways to Make the Most of Your First Day at the Gym

by Caitlin H,

Feb 6, 2023

You did it. You committed to your health and fitness and signed up for a gym membership. And now, it’s time to step into that world of weights and cardio machines for the first time. It can feel pretty darn intimidating. That’s more than okay. It’s a brand new situation, and doing anything for the first time can be nerve-wracking.

Thankfully, the gym is actually a place you can have fun and spend time — you just have to set yourself up for success before showing up for the first time.

These 5 Simple Dietary Swaps Could Lengthen Your Life

by Caitlin H,

Jan 30, 2023

If the potential of adding years to your life by making small changes appeals to you, listen up.

Improving the quality of foods you eat daily — even just a little — can extend your life, no matter how old you are.  Making some simple swaps to your overall diet can improve your nutritional intake — and maybe even add years to your life!

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone This Year

by Caitlin H,

Jan 23, 2023

The new year is often when we think about hitting the reset button on some (or several!) aspects of our lives. We consider our intentions, set goals, and start doing what we can to achieve them.

This year, consider the following: How often do you set a goal to do something extraordinary that will give you a sense of true exhilaration?

Maybe it’s time to step outside your comfort zone and live life to the fullest!

8 Simple Ways Women Can Move More While At Home

by Caitlin H,

Jan 16, 2023

You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again; physical activity is crucial to controlling your weight, gaining healthful benefits, and expanding your lifespan. 

A recent study found that physical activity was associated with a lower risk of death for women. By participating in daily activity of any intensity, a woman could lengthen her expected lifetime. Fitness guru, Dr. Gabe Mirkin tells us “You do not need to have a specific exercise program to stay fit, you just need to keep on moving for a large part of each day.” That’s good news if you’re not a big fan of what we traditionally associate with exercise.

So, what can you do to make sure you can keep your body in motion each and every day? We have 8 simple ideas for you! (Men, you can do these things, too!)

Lorrie Mills Lost 15 Pounds In Just Three Months

by Caitlin H,

Jan 9, 2023

Lorrie Mills is a giving person. During the holiday season, he sponsors families in need by fulfilling their wishlists and providing food. But in April 2022, Lorrie learned some troubling news that meant it was time to give something to himself, too.

When his doctor started making notes in his medical records about his chances of stroke or heart attack (or worse) Lorrie took him seriously. That same day he found Diet-to-Go, and three months later he’s happy to share what he’s learned.

Clever Hacks To Help You Get a Better Night’s Sleep

by Caitlin H,

Dec 19, 2022

A quality night’s rest is one of the best feelings. It makes it much easier to take on the day’s tasks, make time for exercise, think clearly, be productive and even make better nutrition choices.

Unfortunately, many of us may struggle to get quality sleep. 

If you’re one of those people, you may want to take a peek at our list of things you can try in order to up the quantity (and quality) of those zzzzs! 

20 Weight Loss-Themed Gifts They’ll Love

by Caitlin H,

Dec 12, 2022

Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be challenging, especially if you want to support their weight loss goals tactfully.

Thankfully, there are options to give them what they want (or need!) with class. Our holiday gift roundup below includes ideas for 20 thoughtful, quality weight loss-related gifts that will make them smile and help them achieve their goal!

10 Festive & Fun Light Christmas Cocktails

by Caitlin H,

Dec 5, 2022

Holiday get-togethers are often synonymous with high-calorie adult beverages like spiked eggnog, mimosas, wine and beer. While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, there are also a ton of fun, lower-calorie beverages you can whip up instead.

Keep these 10 Christmas-themed cocktail recipes on hand for any upcoming festivities and you can enjoy without going overboard. As always, be sure to drink responsibly!

Dont JUST Diet. Create a Healthy Lifestyle

by Caitlin H,

Nov 28, 2022

Anyone who’s ever struggled with weight knows how challenging it can be to find a diet that works, especially with so many options.  

Well, here’s the thing. While selecting a healthy, well-rounded diet that works for you is essential, changing your mindset to focus on changing your overall lifestyle is even more critical. By approaching your weight loss plan to improve your health and overall wellness, you’re much more likely to find success.

But how do you do that?

Meet Sarah Brenner, the newest dietitian to join our private practice! Sarah is now accepting new clients. Read on to learn more about her!

How I Became an Eating Disorder Dietitian

During my senior year of high school, I picked up running and trained for my first half marathon. This interest in running led to a new curiosity around nutrition; what was I “supposed to be eating” as an athlete?

Nearly all of the information that I was exposed to at that time was deeply rooted in diet culture, and I found myself more confused than ever – unknowingly picking up food rules along the way.

I entered college with every intention of studying business, but enrolled in one introductory nutrition course – just for my own knowledge (or so I thought!). As I began to learn more, I experienced firsthand just how healing and freeing it can be to truly understand the science of nutrition, metabolism, and the human body.

After inevitably declaring a nutrition major, I took an elective course focused on eating disorders and disordered eating. It was during this time that I began to see just how pervasive eating disorders are, and how much of an impact diet culture has on our society and collective well-being.

I learned that my own experience and vulnerability as a young athlete was unfortunately not uncommon. Upon graduation, I was eager to learn more and gained my first hands-on experience in a residential treatment facility as I prepared for my dietetic internship. Through my interactions with those clients, I quickly realized that this was the area I wanted to specialize my career in.

I moved to Boston in 2020, shortly after completing my dietetic internship and passing my RD exam (fun fact: I passed my exam on Friday the 13th!). I dove into the world of outpatient eating disorder treatment for the next two years, where I built meaningful connections with each of my clients.

I have learned so much from my clients, and feel extremely fortunate that I am able to do so each day!

Working with Me

As my client, you can expect that our work together will allow you the space to explore the complexities of your relationship to food and body.

I feel strongly that you, the client, know your body best. I consider it a privilege to be able to listen and to help untangle the many layers of your lived experiences with food, exercise, and everything in between.

I am always going to meet you where you are, and aim to provide the right amount of support and encouragement to get you where you’d like to be.

I always want my clients to feel safe, heard, and empowered in the space that we share together.

Fun Facts About Me!

I worked at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL for several months as part of the Disney College Program. I’m always down to discuss your favorite ride or Disney snack (it’s the Mickey ice cream bars for me!).
My favorite food is cheese – I always say that I’ve never met a cheese I didn’t like. I will add cheese to just about anything and firmly believe that it makes everything better.
I have seen every episode of The Office probably a dozen times, it is my go-to comfort show. The best episode of all time? Dinner Party, hands down!

Click here to read Sarah’s professional bio. If you’d like to schedule a nutrition assessment with Sarah, please fill out our contact form and our team will be in touch!