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‘Tis the season for looking and feeling our best — and skin care is a big part of that! Ahead of the next several weeks filled with holiday parties and gift exchanges, we are here to help you bring joy to your world with some gift options that will make shopping easy while encouraging self-care and delight for everyone on your nice list. 

Gifts For Every Skin Concern Dullness | Redness | Large Pores | Dryness | Breakouts | Uneven Skin Tone | Signs Of Aging   

Gifts For Every Budget Luxury | Mid-Range | Stocking Stuffers

Gifts For Every Skin Concern

Whether you or your loved ones are dealing with breakouts, dullness, uneven skin tones, signs of aging, dryness (especially in the cold winter months) or a combination, gifting products that target a specific skin concern shows how much you care about their self-care! 

Dullness

Nothing can dull the sparkle of this festive season quite like dull skin. Bring back the glow with limited edition gift sets and a vitamin-rich powder that will supercharge the glow factor for any cream moisturizer! 

Our limited edition Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set is perfectly packaged for gifting and works for any skin type. With three masks and countless benefits, there are endless possibilities to mix, pair and layer the masks to reveal brighter skin. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious way to diminish dullness, the Rosehip Oil & Gua Sha Gift Set is it. This deeply hydrating facial oil will bring a glow to dull skin, especially when massaged in with the aventurine gua sha tool that comes beautifully packaged in the set. 

For the one on your list who has everything, the Superfood Booster-Powder will amp up and supercharge their skin care. Packed with vitamins and superfoods, a dash of this ultra-fine, innovative powder in any cream moisturizer will give skin a healthy, natural glow.

Redness

Velvet bows, poinsettias and maybe a glass of wine should be the only red you’re seeing this time of year. If you or someone on your shopping list deals with redness from sensitivity, outdoor elements or rosacea, here are some gift ideas that could help improve the look of it.

Filled with ingredients that can help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, including jasmine flower, which visibly relieves the look of redness, the Kombucha Microbiome Foaming Cleanser makes the perfect gift for anyone looking to remove impurities, refresh and balance the microbiome of the skin. 

Precious herbs and nourishing oils are the foundation of our Facial Recovery Oil. Known as “liquid gold,” this potent potion reduces the look of red, dry skin while rejuvenating, hydrating and balancing.  

The name says it all! The Calm Skin Chamomile Moisturizer hydrates sensitive skin with gentle chamomile and arnica ingredients. Combined with shea butter and calendula oil, this moisturizer is an effective way to relieve the appearance of redness.

Large Pores 

Give the gift of healthy, smooth-looking skin by minimizing the look of large pores. 

Three masks, multiple possibilities. The aforementioned Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set includes three of our most popular masks and ideas about how to combine them depending on your skin care goals. 

Since mild exfoliation can be a game-changer for large pores, we recommend the Pineapple Refining Tonique for anyone looking to minimize their appearance. And the fresh pineapple scent makes the gift even brighter and sweeter ー something especially welcome through the winter. 

Mangosteen Gel Moisturizer is a lightweight gel-cream moisturizer that minimizes the look of pores and promotes natural radiance and the appearance of smoother skin. What’s not to love? 

Product Picks

Dryness

There is less moisture around during winter months, which can make any existing dryness in skin even worse. Plus, many of us are also guilty of cranking up the thermostat, which further strips moisture from the air and skin. Bring it back with one of these hydrating gifts: 

One way to soothe and hydrate the look of dry skin is with the Rosehip Oil & Gua Sha Gift Set. The Rosehip Triple C+E Oil contains results-oriented actives and ingredients that provide intense hydration and protection to the skin. The gift set also includes a complimentary gua sha tool for a relaxing face and neck massage that can help the oil absorb more deeply into the face and neck.  

The Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set is also great for those needing to take on dryness. With three masks designed to be used separately or together, this trio can be used to target a lack of hydration. Truly the perfect present for almost anyone on your list.  

Made with coconut oil, shea butter and Natural Retinol Alternative, the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer hydrates dry skin, while providing other benefits like reducing the visible signs of aging and helping the skin appear firmer and tighter. Plus, it’s a best seller that skin care fanatics keep coming back to.

Breakouts 

Cameras are out and the party circuit may feel like your full-time job right now. And whether the stress of the season is causing breakouts, or hormones are to blame, now is the time to treat yourself or your loved ones to the gift of clear skin.

The Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser and Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturizer are a dynamic duo for problem skin. Both contain cucumber and tea tree to help improve the appearance of blemishes and reduce the look of inflammation. Plus, the probiotics included in both formulas exfoliate and leave the complexion looking calm. 

A facial mask is a thoughtful way to introduce some relaxation into a loved one’s life. The Eight Greens Phyto Masque – Hot will allow them a spicy and zippy five to 10 minute break in their day or evening to sit and wait for this tingly, antioxidant-rich formula to improve the look of problem skin areas, particularly for hormonal acne.

Uneven Skin Tone 

It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean that sun exposure isn’t taking a toll on the skin. Hyperpigmentation and dark spots can show up year-round and now is a great time to treat uneven skin tone with some gifts that are packaged and ready to go. You may even feel the need to gift one to yourself!  

Our Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set is a one-stop-shop for almost anyone on your list, and that includes those dealing with uneven skin tones. The Natural Retinol Alternative in the Bamboo Age Corrective Masque can help fade the appearance of dark spots. Mix it with the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque to help tone down the visible signs of aging. 

Hydration, protection and reduction of visible signs of aging are all benefits you’ll see from the Rosehip Oil & Gua Sha Gift Set. The oil on its own is a skin care superstar — combine that with the powerful revitalizing benefits of gua sha and things will start to look more even!

Who doesn’t love a glow-up? Gift the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum to brighten up the holidays. The potent Vitamin C in this serum is stabilized by botanically-derived ferulic acid, meaning that it delivers antioxidants to help brighten skin, improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles and reduce the appearance of free radical damage.

Product Picks

Signs of Aging

You’re never too old to believe in the magic of the holiday season! However, your skin might beg to differ. Bring back the youthful glow and treat the ghosts of Christmas past with some presents that will add sparkle well into the future!

Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream For Face & Neck unites fragrant Tahitian monoi and evening primrose oils with our Argan Stem Cell Complex to rejuvenate the look of aging skin and smooth the appearance of wrinkles.

Beautifully boxed and ready to give, the Rosehip Oil & Gua Sha Gift Set combines the deeply nourishing ingredients in our Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil with the benefits of gua sha massage to reveal a soft, hydrated and youthful-looking complexion. One of the reasons gua sha has been loved for centuries is the fact that it invigorates the skin. Experience it yourself or gift to someone who loves to indulge in their skin care. 

The Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set is the perfect present for anyone on your list because of the numerous ways it can be used. All three of the masks in the set offer amazing benefits, whether they’re mixed, layered or applied on their own. 

Gifts For Every Budget

When it comes to holiday shopping, we all know that it’s the thought that counts. And whether you’re looking for the showstopper or just a few stocking stuffers, we have some suggestions that will make spirits (and complexions) bright. 

Luxury

There is nothing more luxurious than giving (or receiving) a gift that will help the recipient look and feel their best. And it doesn’t get much more luxurious than the beautifully packaged limited edition Rosehip & Gua Sha Gift Set. One of our most-loved oils is paired with a complimentary and highly effective facial tool to create the perfect self-care kit. 

Another perfectly packaged present that will excite any skin care fanatic is the Arctic Berry Peel & Peptide Illuminating System. This three-step kit keeps skin looking radiant and revitalized in between spa treatments.

The Marine Flower Peptide Serum is an easily absorbed, potent gel serum that delivers concentrated plant peptides and botanicals to the skin. Its luxurious ingredients diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for visibly smoother, plumper and more youthful-looking skin. Ideal for all skin types, especially aging skin, this serum rejuvenates the look of the complexion while unique algae extracts increase firmness and provide long-lasting hydration.

Mid-Range

Perfect for anyone who is interested in trying out a routine before committing to full-sized products, the Age Corrective Starter Set and the Must Have Minis Starter Set make great gifts. The Age Corrective Starter Set contains five products designed to improve the look and feel of skin through all of life’s stages. And the Must Have Minis Starter Set features five of our best-selling products packed into a convenient zippered travel pouch. 

Give three gifts in one with the Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set. The masks are designed to be used separately or together, making this the perfect present for almost anyone on your list.  

Stocking Stuffers 

If you have friends or family who suffer from dry skin, they’ll want to know about the antioxidant-rich Mangosteen Replenishing Hand Cream. This luxurious cream comes to the rescue to keep hands supple and moisturized through its gentle and continuous resurfacing action. Plus, the sleek tube is compact enough to stuff into any stocking.

Citrus Lip Balm is a vitamin-rich and petroleum-free lip balm that will make pouts mistletoe-ready. It offers lips maximum hydration for an irresistible pucker. Spoil your friends and family with this little surprise, and you’ll be the hero of the holiday season.

Cold winter weather calls for the major hydration that the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Body Lotion provides. With a delicious scent and a creamy feel, this treat leaves skin with a soft, silky finish. 

With this list of skin care products and gift sets, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone. And if you’re still looking for ideas, why not gift a professional treatment at your nearest Eminence Organic Skin Care Spa Partner? Find out more using our Spa Locator. 

 

From the sea to your skin, one ingredient that is rapidly gaining recognition for its numerous benefits in skincare is algae. Yes, you read that right– algae! While this may seem like an unconventional choice to some, this powerhouse ingredient is one I’ve been formulating with for many years. I even like to take advantage of any algae I find while I’m at the beach and rub it on my skin. While I’m not exactly sure how beneficial this is, sometimes I like to put the real deal on my body in hopes that I can receive just some of the algae’s many benefits.

Whether you’re looking for hydration, antioxidant protection, relief from inflammation, or minimized appearance of fine lines, incorporating algae into your beauty regimen may be the thing that takes your skincare routine to the next level! Keep reading to find out how exactly this natural ingredient works its magic.

What Are Algae?

“Algae” is a broad categorization of plant organisms that range from microscopic single-celled organisms to large seaweeds. They are found in freshwater and saltwater environments, meaning they thrive in various ecosystems worldwide. Algae come in different colors, including green, red, brown, and even blue-green, giving them properties and skincare benefits that are specific to their species.

While algae have been around for centuries in traditional medicine, it wasn’t until more recently that the skincare industry discovered their potent properties.

Where Are They Sourced From?

Algae are sourced through various methods, including wild harvesting from natural waters, controlled collections that encourage algae growth, and even lab cultivation. Some biotech companies have even taken a high-tech approach, training algae to produce specific valuable compounds by exposing them to different light frequencies, resulting in customized extracts. One company even trained algae to produce triglycerides, or algae oil– something impossible to create outside of the lab!

What Are The Benefits Of Using Algae?

Algae are as plentiful as they are useful, with one of their key benefits being that almost all algae species offer the ability to hydrate and protect the skin. This is largely due to their high polysaccharide content, which acts as a moisture magnet, attracting water to the skin. Additionally, the film-forming properties of certain algae create a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss. Some algae have also been proven to soothe inflammation, provide antioxidant protection, fight cellulite, boost collagen production, and improve cellular turnover.

Algae also play a functional role in cosmetics, helping to thicken or stabilize a formulation, or even to create a novel texture. For example, carrageenan is a popular component of algae (specifically red seaweed) that is often used to create clear, thick gels that can help stabilize formulations.

What Types Of Algae Are In Skincare?

Skincare formulators often incorporate macroalgae, such as kelp and seaweed, into products, while microalgae (like plankton) are less common. When it comes to products that I’ve created, the following are some specific algae species that I choose to formulate with:

Macroalgae

Hawaiian Marine Algae

Found in AHA/BHA Blemish Control Cleanser, this algae is popular for its ability to provide comforting hydration to sensitive, irritated skin.

Laminaria Digitata

This is a popular brown seaweed that’s found in both Advanced Resurfacing Serum and Phytolipid Comfort Creme. The main benefit of Laminaria digitata, which is very rich in polysaccharides, is its deeply hydrating qualities. It’s also great for minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Microalgae

Chlorella

Chlorella, a microalgae invisible to the naked eye, is an essential ingredient for helping with collagen synthesis in Firm and Repair Overnight Serum. This microalgae is notably dense in chlorophyll, a green pigment often used in cosmetics for its antioxidant properties. Formulators also harness chlorella for its high nutrient content, making it a powerful addition to enhance cell metabolism. When your skin cells have optimal metabolism, the overall function of the cells improve. This translates to better combatting free radicals, addressing general signs of aging, and optimal collagen production.

You also may have heard of it if you’re into powdered micro-greens! I love to use chlorella in my smoothies ever since I learned of its benefits both topically and orally.

Carrageenan And More

Carrageenan

As I mentioned previously, carrageenan is an algae extract that cosmetic chemists use as a formulation aid in skincare. Products like Pure Radiance Creme Masque benefit from its thickening and hydrating properties.

Chondrus Crispus Extract

An extract of red seaweed, Chondrus crispus is extremely rich in minerals. Chondrus crispus benefits the skin with overall anti-aging, skin-firming, and hydrating properties, even helping with serum texture, like in Redness Care Firming Serum. This algae is truly remarkable when it comes to making skin soft to the touch.

Algae Derivatives

While not algae or an extract itself, you may notice Methylsilanol Carboxymethyl Theophylline Alginate listed skincare packaging, such as Intensive Firming Neck Cream. This is an algae derivative that forms when we extract alginic acid from algae and chemically react it with other molecules. This specific algae derivative helps with body contouring, body and face firming, under-eye bags, and depuffing.

Chlorophyll

Again, while this is not necessarily algae, it is a component of algae and it serves as the compound engaged in photosynthesis (remember high school biology?). The role of chlorophyll is to take ultraviolet light and react with sugars to create energy for plants. Chlorophyll is great for skincare formulation because it’s an amazing antioxidant, meaning it will protect the skin from free radicals and environmental aggressors, as well as reduce visible signs of aging. Moisturizers like Daily Mattifying Solution use chlorophyll to hydrate the skin and calm irritation.

Which Skin Types Will Benefit From Algae

The greatest part about algae is that it’s suitable for all of the 9 skin types. After all, everyone can benefit from algae’s ability to hydrate the skin, act as an antioxidant, and provide nutrients. Throughout my 30+ years as an esthetician, I’ve never come across someone whose skin reacts poorly to algae. With little to no drawbacks to using this ingredient, algae are truly deserving of their recent popularity. Just remember, not all “algae extract” labels offer the same benefits– they all have different functions!

Incorporating algae into your skincare routine can bring about a range of benefits for your skin. From hydration and antioxidant protection to collagen-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, algae offer a natural and effective solution for various skin concerns. Whether you have dry, aging, or sensitive skin, there is an algae-infused product out there to suit your needs. So why not dive into the world of algae and experience the healing power of the sea?

Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Oct 16, 2023

When Lara took her retirement trip to Kauai she loved it, but at 200 pounds she felt uncomfortable and was self-conscious.

“I was mad at myself for being so big during this special thing.”

That was one catalyst that pushed Lara to make a change. She had tried dieting in the past, but ultimately decided to try Diet-to-Go. And when 55-year-old Lara recently fit comfortably into a pair of size 10 pants she’d held onto for years, it was a powerful moment for her.

Examining the Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

by Caitlin H,

Oct 9, 2023

Traffic. Work. Groceries. Bills. Stress is a part of life — and most of us face it daily. Thankfully, we tend to be proficient in managing all those common day-to-day stressors.

But when stress gets overwhelming, it can make maintaining a healthy weight very challenging.

What exactly is the link between stress and weight gain?

Living with Type 2 Diabetes? Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

by Caitlin H,

Oct 2, 2023

Healthy eating plays a significant role in whether you may develop type 2 diabetes — and a recently published study confirms that.

According to the study, a considerable rise in people living with type 2 diabetes globally directly results from poor diet. The study demonstrates just how essential it is to improve the quality of your food. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, changing your diet is critical to improving your health.

So, what should you be eating?

How Do the Most Popular Diets Rank for Heart Health?

by Caitlin H,

Sep 25, 2023

Skim any social media feed related to weight loss, and there’s a good chance you’ll see it chock full of everyone from fitness influencers to celebrities touting a diet that helped them shed pounds in record time. Here’s the thing: Many of those diets — such as very-low-fat and very-low-carb — may indeed help you lose weight, but that doesn’t mean they’re good for you.

What makes a diet heart healthy and where does Diet-to-Go stand in the rankings?

Financial Analyst Loses 30 Pounds in Six Months with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Sep 18, 2023

8 Healthy Recipes to Level Up Your Grilling

by Caitlin H,

Sep 11, 2023

Summer may be ending, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop using your grill! Cookouts might always make you think of burgers and brats, potato salad, brownies, and lemonade. As delicious as all those things can be, they’re far from the only barbecue options. In fact, you can add variety to your menu by grilling proteins like steak, chicken, pork, and fish — particularly when they star in some delicious, unique, and healthy recipes that everyone will rave about.

Why don’t you add a new recipe to your cookout grilling menu plan?

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Vegetarian Meal Delivery Service Overall

by Caitlin H,

Aug 21, 2023

Being a vegetarian can definitely mean eating healthier. In fact, studies show that vegetarians tend to eat less saturated fat and cholesterol and enjoy more nutrients, like dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins C and E.

But trying to lose weight as a vegetarian can also be challenging, especially if you’re unsure where to begin.

That’s where we come in. Diet-to-Go’s No. 1 rated Vegetarian Meal Plan has been helping people lose weight for over 30 years. Our dietitian-approved menu delivers restaurant-quality flavors and balanced potions of delicious, chef-crafted meals. And the best part? You just heat and eat.

Ready to learn more?

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Weight Loss Prepared Meals

by Caitlin H,

Aug 7, 2023

Diet-to-Go has been crafting balanced, nutritious, tasty meals that help people eat healthy and lose weight since 1991.

Along the way, we’ve adapted our menus to align with sound scientific research and healthy eating trends that purport actual results that ultimately lead to a long-lasting lifestyle change for our tens of thousands of customers across the U.S.

Want to learn more about healthy eating?

A Deep Dive into Intuitive Eating

by Caitlin H,

Jul 24, 2023

Remember when you were a small child, and you ate when you were hungry and stopped when you were full? Even if you faced challenges surrounding eating, such as temptations from sweets or rules about finishing everything on your plate, there truly was a time when your body told you what it wanted to eat and how much — and you listened.

That’s the core message of intuitive eating, a method that dates back to 1995 but has recently gained momentum in mainstream healthy living culture.

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Mediterranean Prepared Meals

by Caitlin H,

Jul 10, 2023

Here at Diet-to-Go, our team of nutritionists and chefs work tirelessly to ensure Mediterranean plan meals adhere to this diet’s cultural and nutritional guidelines. That means delivering high-quality, tasty meals packed with healthy fats, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.

It’s hard work, but it pays off. Diet-to-Go is thrilled to announce that U.S. News & World Report named us No. 1 for Prepared Meals on its 2023 “Best Mediterranean Diet Meal Delivery Services.”

Alternative Ways to Track Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Jun 26, 2023

When you embark on a weight loss journey, you may find yourself focusing solely on one thing: the scale.

It’s easy to get hung up on that number and feel frustrated when it doesn’t budge, no matter how hard you try. While the pounds do play a part, they don’t tell the complete story, not by a long shot.

Let’s explore why scales don’t give the full picture and additional ways to track your progress for a more comprehensive understanding of just how far you’ve come.

Do You Really Need 10,000 Steps a Day?

by Caitlin H,

Jun 19, 2023

When you think about how many steps you need to take in a day to be healthy, what’s the number that immediately comes to mind? There’s a solid chance it’s 10,000.

That’s because 10,000 steps a day has become the fitness industry baseline for living a healthy lifestyle. After all, it’s the default setting for most pedometers and fitness trackers, and a simple internet search will yield thousands of articles on the topic.

But is that number, which generally equates to about 5 miles daily, really based on science?

Do You Struggle With Self-Confidence?

by Caitlin H,

Jun 12, 2023

Confidence is a powerful, sometimes obscure, sense of self-assurance that leads to believing in yourself, your judgments, your abilities, and your identity.

The more confident you are, the more quickly you’ll be able to tackle life’s challenges, achieve your goals and find positivity in your day-to-day life.

Thankfully, there are practical ways to boost your self-esteem and improve your overall confidence, which can go a heck of a long way toward improving your personal and professional life.

7 Reasons to Book a Wellness Retreat

by Caitlin H,

Jun 5, 2023

Imagine waking up feeling energized and fresh in a clean, luxurious hotel room before heading to a short yoga session with a stunning backdrop of distant mountains or a beautiful blue ocean and sandy beach. Then, consider how great it would feel to enjoy a nutritious, balanced meal and spend the rest of your day getting a massage or spa treatment, exercising with a trained fitness instructor, or working with therapists to learn how to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine.

Those are just a few of the extraordinary things you can expect when you take a wellness vacation, which are getaways designed to help you focus on your overall well-being.

Turn Your Daily Stroll Into a Walking Meditation

by Caitlin H,

May 29, 2023

One of the most accessible and perhaps enjoyable fitness activities to make a part of your daily routine is walking. That’s especially true during the late spring and summer months when the fresh air, sunshine, and beautiful scenery can elevate it to the next level.

And while those things may improve your fitness and well-being in and of themselves, what if there were a way to make them even more beneficial?

Enter…meditation.

12 Healthy Snacks Everyone Should Have On Hand

by Caitlin H,

May 22, 2023

Do you often find yourself eyeing the snack machine in the office or scanning the pantry at home between meals?

Constantly feeling hungry can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to weight loss, especially if you’re snacking on unhealthy foods like chips or candy bars all day.  Stocking your pantry or office desk with healthy snacks packed with filling nutrients like fiber and protein is essential.

We have 12 suggestions for filling, healthy, simple snacks that can break the hangry cycle and keep you satisfied and energized all day.

10 Tips to Break a Bad Habit for Good

by Caitlin H,

May 15, 2023

Many of us structure our lives around habits, such as getting up at 7 a.m., drinking a cup of morning coffee, or eating dinner at 6 p.m. These regular practices may be a critical part of ensuring your everyday life is consistent and manageable, and that’s a good thing.

But some habits—such as smoking, overeating, drinking, consuming too much caffeine, or scanning social media right before bed—can negatively impact your overall health and well-being.

There’s a good chance you can quickly identify your own bad habit (or habits). There’s an even better chance you are well aware of their harmful effects. So how do you go about breaking those bad habits? 

7 Brain Exercise Activities to Keep Your Mind Sharp

by Caitlin H,

May 8, 2023

Creating a healthy lifestyle is about many things. It’s about a consistent diet with balanced nutrition. It’s about staying active and exercising. It’s about ensuring your mental well-being. And it’s about keeping your brain active and engaged.

Need a little help keeping that mind sharp, engaged, and present in the moment?  Read on!

10 Signs Your Diet is a Dud

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.

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. But it means you need to find a diet that works for you and allows you to incorporate healthy eating into your everyday life.

But how can you tell if that “diet” can become a lifestyle?

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!

This Buffalo Cauliflower Dip is a delicious vegetarian spin on a classic game day snack. Made with roasted cauliflower, Frank’s hot sauce, Greek yogurt, and ranch, it’s perfect served with tortilla chips or celery sticks. Easy to make in the oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Buffalo Cauliflower Dip is deliciously cheesy, rich, and spicy, and can definitely compete with a buffalo chicken wing dip.

That’s right I have a vegetarian chicken wing dip recipe made with cauliflower that’s going to knock your socks off.

Don’t believe me? Ask my carnivore Buffalo-born husband and he’ll tell you how he almost finished the dip off in one sitting :).

This dip swaps the chicken for cauliflower, adds Greek yogurt as well as cream cheese, uses mozzarella and blue cheese, and can be made with ranch dressing or seasoning.

Not only is it deliciously spicy, cheesy and indulgent-tasting, it’s vegetarian, gluten-free, has more fiber, and is super satisfying.

It only requires 7 simple ingredients and comes together quickly, though maybe not as fast as it’ll get eaten!

Buffalo Cauliflower Dip is also customizable so you can switch up the type(s) of shredded cheese based on what you have on hand or add more or less hot sauce depending on your spice preferences.

You can also easily make it in the slow cooker or Instant Pot if your oven isn’t available (instructions for all three methods below!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

cauliflower: I like to roast the cauliflower in the oven first because I love roasted veggies and think it brings out more flavor but if you’d rather microwave or steam your cauliflower as a time saver, go for it! Use a small head or a bag of pre-cut cauliflower florets.

Frank’s hot sauce: I highly recommend trying to find Frank’s hot sauce for this recipe but don’t sweat it if you need to use another type of Buffalo sauce. You can add a little more or less depending on your desired spice level!

cream cheese: acts as the base of the dip. I recommend using a regular full-fat block of cream cheese and letting it soften before you get started.

Greek yogurt: contributes to the creamy texture and adds a boost of protein.

ranch dressing: helps combat the spice of the hot sauce along with the cream cheese. If you’d like your dip to have a thicker consistency you can use 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning instead.

mozzarella cheese: I like using shredded mozzarella cheese in this recipe but feel free to swap it out with other cheeses like cheddar, Colby, pepper jack, or some combination of different cheeses. 

blue cheese: blue cheese is often paired with buffalo sauce to combat the heat but you can omit if blue cheese isn’t your thing!

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission):

Baking Dish

How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Dip

Roast the cauliflower. On a parchment lined baking sheet, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt and pepper and bake until tender and slightly browned, about 20-25 minutes.
Combine ingredients. To a large mixing bowl add roasted cauliflower, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, Frank’s hot sauce, ranch dressing (or seasoning), 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella and blue cheese. Stir until cream cheese is mostly incorporated.
Transfer and bake. Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and optional extra blue cheese. Bake until mixture is bubbling and the sides are just starting to brown, about 25-30 minutes.
Serve! Top with optional sliced green onion and serve warm with tortilla chips, carrot and celery sticks, for dipping.

Expert Tips

You can prep Buffalo Cauliflower Dip in advance by preparing it up until it needs to be baked in the oven. If you’re making it in advance, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge (no longer than 24 hours) until you’re ready. Before baking, let the dip come to room temperature while the oven preheats.
If you don’t like small cauliflower chunks in your dip, you can pulse the roasted cauliflower in a food processor or dice the florets before combining with the other ingredients.

How to make this dip in the Instant Pot

If you want to save oven space or just don’t want to turn on your oven, you can easily make this dip in the Instant Pot!

In Instant Pot, add cauliflower, Frank’s, ranch dressing or seasoning, salt and pepper, and stir to coat.
Secure lid onto Instant Pot and set to pressure cook/manual for 2 minutes.
Use quick release valve to release steam.
Once pressure is released, open lid and add cream cheese, yogurt, mozzarella, and blue cheese.
Using an immersion blender or hand mixer on low, blend ingredients until smooth and creamy, or your desired texture (I like some little chunks of cauliflower in mine!).
Pour out into a serving bowl and garnish with green onion.

How to make this dip using the slow cooker

Roast cauliflower in the oven.
Spray slow cooker bowl with cooking spray. Add all ingredients to slow cooker, stir to combine, and cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours, or until cheeses have melted and dip is heated through.
Stir dip again before transferring to a serving bowl and topping with green onion garnish.

Recipe FAQs

What goes good with buffalo cauliflower?

Buffalo Cauliflower Dip goes well with tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, carrots and celery sticks. If you’re planning on making this in part of a game day menu, you can serve it alongside nachos, chicken wings, fries, coleslaw, etc. 

Can I use blue cheese dressing instead of ranch dressing?

I haven’t made this dip with blue cheese dressing but I’m sure this would be delicious! You can try using my vegan blue cheese dressing or any store bought dressing should work.

Can this dip be made without blue cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to omit the blue cheese completely or even swap it out with goat cheese or feta cheese for that salty, crumbly effect. 

What is the best hot sauce for buffalo cauliflower dip?

Hand’s down use Frank’s hot sauce. Frank’s hot sauce is by far my favorite Buffalo sauce (and I’m from Buffalo, NY so I know a good wing sauce!). 

How long is buffalo cauliflower dip good for in the fridge?

Buffalo Cauliflower Dip will stay good in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To store,  you can wrap the entire baking dish tightly in plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight container before putting it in the fridge. 

Storage and Preparation

This dip can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Let dish come to room temperature before before baking while the oven preheats.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can freeze this dip for up to three months but the texture and consistency will change (although the flavor will still be good!).

Recipes That Pair Well

Vegetarian Nachos

Healthy Sweet Potato Skins

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Vegan Chickpea Burgers

Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer)

Sheet Pan Potato Nachos

For more buffalo cauliflower inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings – Air Fryer or Oven

Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza

Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos with Ranch Slaw

Instant Pot Vegetarian Buffalo Cauliflower Wing Dip

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

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This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious (and most beautiful) dish! The original post was published February 2017.

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Stress is peaking these days. Between managing households, deadlines at work and daily commutes, none of us are immune to the chaos that can exist in everyday life. And if you notice that your skin is seeming a little dull or you’re experiencing more breakouts than usual, you’re not imagining things: Stress can have a major impact on how your skin looks and feels. So, what can you do to lower stress levels to improve overall well-being and get your skin back to its naturally glowing state? Read on to find out how to manage stress and feel better inside and out. 

The Impact of Stress on Skin

Much of what we know about how stress affects the body is through symptoms like elevated heart rate, stiff or tense muscles, low energy and digestive issues. But stress also plays a significant role in how your skin looks and feels, whether you experience tension on a chronic level or not. So how does stress show up on the skin?

Skin Irritation And Rashes

Because of a weakened immune system, the skin barrier is compromised when you’re experiencing a stressful situation or going through chronic stress. As the body’s outermost layer, the skin barrier is vital to protecting you against environmental irritants and free radicals. The health and strength of this protective barrier can become compromised by factors including excessive sun exposure, humid or dry environments, over-exfoliation and stress. Stress levels impact the skin barrier and immune system and, for some, can even trigger flare-ups of contact dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema.

Dry Skin And Wrinkles

Stress impacts the skin on a molecular level and affects how cells age. For example, stress hormones (such as adrenaline and cortisol) cause collagen and elastin to break down, making it harder for the skin to rejuvenate and stay supple. According to neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart, “Because cortisol is pro-inflammatory, it’s very drying of the system … so you might notice that your skin is really dry or you’ve got skin problems. Your skin isn’t just the physical border of your body, it’s the psychological boundary of your body too, so often stress shows up in the skin.”

As the turnover of healthy skin cells slows down, fine lines and wrinkles become more pronounced. Couple that with facial expressions that get repeated during stressful situations – furrowing of the brows, for example – and you have a recipe for more fine lines and wrinkles. 

Fluid Retention And Dark Circles

For many, sleep patterns are disrupted by stress. Insomnia and sleeping issues are common symptoms of stress, and poor sleep quality impacts numerous systems within the body, including the skin. A lack of sleep leads to increased signs of aging – notably undereye bags and dark circles. Loss of elastin and collagen makes the skin and muscle under the eyes weaker, which allows fluid retention to look more prominent.

Stress Hormones And Skin Health

What are stress hormones and are they bad? Not exactly. From suppressing inflammation to regulating metabolism and controlling sleep cycles, we need stress hormones to live optimally. Steady levels of cortisol and adrenaline are ideal, but when your body responds to internal and external stimuli, it causes hormone levels to rise and fall beyond the recommended range.

When the nervous system experiences a surge in stress hormones, it kicks off a number of reactions throughout the body and skin, such as:

Skin glands producing more oil
Slowed digestion in the gut
Aggravated or angry skin due to triggered inflammation or setting off autoimmune disorders
Trouble sleeping, leading to exhaustion and poor cognitive reasoning

Does Stress Cause Acne?

In a word: “Yes”! When the adrenal glands release excess cortisol due to chronic or acute stress, that stimulates another hormone (corticotrophin-releasing hormone or CRH) to release oil from the sebaceous glands. These tiny glands are found alongside hair follicles and emit oily sebum to keep skin hydrated naturally. Excess sebum production mixes with dead skin cells deep within the pore to create a clog, leading to buildup, irritation, bacterial growth and, you guessed it, acne.

Understanding The Mind-Body Connection

The mind and body are inextricably connected, which you notice through sensations like flushing when embarrassed, sweating when nervous or feeling itchy when stressed. As much as we notice the state of our skin when stressed, studies have shown that skin cells and hair follicles can create their own stress signals that get delivered to the brain!

The Brain-Skin Axis

In a simplified explanation, the brain-skin axis is a pathway that relays stress messages from the skin to the brain and from the brain to the skin. As we’ve already learned, stressful experiences and environments cause a release of hormones like cortisol into the body, leading to issues like irritation, dry skin and acne. However, exposing skin to specific stressors (ultraviolet rays from excessive sun exposure, for example) can cause stress signals to be sent from the skin to the brain, leading to an increased chance of psychological stress.

A Vicious Cycle: Stress Triggers and Skin Health

Both short and long-term stress can impact your skin health and show up as dry skin, prominent lines, wrinkles, baggy undereyes and inflammation. Plus, just seeing how stress impacts your skin adds another layer of stress to manage!

Whether you work or live in a stressful environment, or you’re simply going through a period of stress, there are things you can do to alleviate symptoms internally and externally, as well as manage how your body responds to various situations.

Creating a Skin Care Routine During Stressful Cycles

Getting your skin care routine back to basics is recommended when going through stressful periods and your skin is reactive. Using soothing ingredients and gentle care can help keep skin looking healthy without irritating the skin barrier. A simple routine is often best to help you manage the stress that is showing up on your skin.

Start by cleansing skin with a gentle formula, such as the Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser, which contains revitalizing ingredients like rosemary, chamomile and grape leaf extract. The Echinacea Recovery Cream is filled with nourishing ingredients like evening primrose oil, echinacea and yarrow, making it an ideal moisturizer to calm and hydrate skin after cleansing.

If acne is present due to stress, consider deep cleansing masks to absorb excess oil and clear pores to prevent clogging. The Clear Skin Probiotic Masque features soothing yogurt, cucumber and kaolin clay to cleanse, soften and calm inflamed skin. Customer, Veronika, reviewed the mask online saying: “I have never used a face mask that actually yielded such results. I have been using it whenever I am breaking out or feel like I’m about to break out and it really saves my skin. LOVE!!!”

Look and Feel Better Using Stress Management Strategies

Though not ideal, stress is a part of everyday life. The best way to keep it at bay and reduce excess stress hormone production is to practice stress management strategies in a way that feels right for your situation or lifestyle. Learning how to cope with stress can give you a better handle on whatever comes your way and keep your skin and body in good condition.

Meditation, Mindfulness And Relaxation

There is so much noise in our lives, both literally and figuratively. The best way to balance that out and calm the body is by practicing mindfulness or meditation each day. Practicing these techniques can train you to be more aware of your surroundings and feelings, which can be grounding and calming during stressful times. It doesn’t have to be overly complicated — anything that allows you to tune out distractions and let your body and mind calm down and relax. Some good options include taking a walk, listening to a guided meditation or engaging in solo activities like painting or reading. 

Exercise

Exercise is good for the body in more ways than one. As well as lowering stress hormone levels and reducing anxiety, it also boosts sleep quality. Something as simple as cleaning the house, gardening, joining a workout class or lifting weights can be a beneficial activity to add to a daily routine for stress management. Deep breathing exercises are another powerful tool to use as a way to reduce stress, as they lower cortisol and activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the restful counterpart to the fight or flight sympathetic nervous system).

Eating Healthy (And Staying Hydrated!)

Drinking enough water and eating a diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants helps your body manage the effects of daily stress. Nutrients repair damaged cells, boost the immune system, regulate stress hormone levels and give the body the necessary energy to get through daily stressors. Studies suggest that fiber-rich vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids are especially helpful in balancing stress hormones. Plus, a healthy diet is good for skin health in general. 

Quality Sleep

Sleep is a prime opportunity for the body to repair and reset. A good night’s sleep also improves cognitive performance and mood, which are crucial to managing stress. To improve sleep hygiene, keep the bedroom free of electronics and distractions, avoid sugary foods and drinks before bed and create (and stick to) a consistent sleep schedule.

Other Relaxation Tips And Techniques

Need more tips to help relax and reduce stress? Consider some of the following relaxation techniques in addition to the practices mentioned above:

Aromatherapy
Massage and other spa treatments
Deep breathing
Yoga
Visualization
Hydrotherapy

Stress is unavoidable, but that doesn’t mean it needs to impact your skin health. By engaging in daily stress management techniques and using skin care ingredients that address concerns, you’ll be better able to navigate life’s curveballs without seeing acne, wrinkles or baggy undereyes creep up.

Are you looking to reduce stress in your life? Visit an Eminence Organics Spa Partner near you to learn how to minimize stress and get your glow back. 

When people don’t use toner as part of their daily skincare routine, it’s usually because they’re unclear of its purpose. They see it as an unnecessary step in an otherwise well-rounded routine. They wonder, Is using a toner really worth it? And, How much can a toner really do for my skin?

As an esthetician and product formulator with over 30 years of experience, I’m here to tell you that toners are extremely important and can benefit your skin in multiple ways—five ways to be exact. In this post, I’ll discuss the game-changing benefits of toner that will convince you to introduce one into your skincare routine if you haven’t already.

5 Major Benefits of Toner

1. Toners Can Give Your Skin a Drink, Offering Instant Hydration

I always say that skin cells are like fish in that they need water to survive. An easy way to hydrate your skin is through the use of toner. Here’s how I suggest using one: cleanse your skin, apply toner, leave it damp on your skin, then immediately follow up with your next product. Doing this will offer an instant boost of hydration to thirsty skin cells.

Leaving toner damp on your skin before applying your next product is the key. I call this the Golden Minute Rule. It’s the easiest way to get plump, hydrated skin and avoid unnecessary moisture loss.

Just make sure you’re using an alcohol-free toner because, generally speaking, toners that contain alcohol are extremely drying to the skin. (Every single Renée Rouleau toner is alcohol-free and there is one for every skin type. If you don’t know your skin type, you can take the Skin Type Quiz to find out. At the end of it, you’ll get personalized product recommendations.)

Read drinking water won’t hydrate your skin, but these three things will.

2. Toners Can Remove Chlorine and Minerals Found in Tap Water

Chlorine, salts, and minerals are put into tap water to make it safe for drinking and bathing, but they can be very harsh on the skin’s surface layers. You know all that cloudy white stuff that you have to clean off your shower doors? That’s what’s being left behind on your skin after cleansing. Using a toner is like a rinse cycle for your skin after using a cleanser.

Read more about tap water and how it can affect your skin.

3. Toners Can Balance Your Skin’s pH

If you use bar soap or a foaming face wash that’s too strong, it could be drying out your skin due to a high pH. One of the many benefits of toner is that it can help counteract the dryness that occurs. However, I never recommend washing your face with a cleanser that leaves your skin feeling tight and dry. You should only use a gentle, low-foaming, and sulfate-free cleanser.

Read the importance of your skin’s pH level.

4. Toners Often Contains Active Ingredients to Enhance Your Skincare Routine

Toners often contain active ingredients to help calm the skin, control oil production, deliver antioxidant benefits, help combat breakouts, and more. Also, it is thought that moist skin is actually 10 times more permeable than dry skin. This means that by leaving your skin damp after you apply toner, and applying your next product immediately after, you’re allowing active ingredients to penetrate deeper into your skin. This can, in turn, enhance the results of your skincare routine.

Read if you want to improve your skin, use these 20 active ingredients.

5. Toners Can Support Your Moisture Barrier

By supplying your skin with essential hydration and nutrients, you’re supporting its moisture barrier. This is the outermost layer of the skin that provides protection to help retain water and defend against external irritants like bacteria and environmental debris. Think of it as your skin’s personal bodyguard. It keeps the good in and the bad out. It’s made up of lipids (oils) that bind your skin cells together, and when it’s intact, it’s responsible for keeping your skin soft, calm, and healthy-looking.

Read more about the moisture barrier and what to do if it’s damaged.

The Bottom Line

Incorporating toner into your skincare routine is an easy way to give your skin a boost. I recommend that everyone use one, regardless of their skin concerns and goals. As I said before, every single Renée Rouleau toner is alcohol-free and there’s one for every skin type! I know from experience how beneficial they can be, which is why I use toner every single day.

Next, find out whether or not you should avoid alcohol in all skincare products.