Blog

Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Oct 16, 2023

When Lara Scheffel 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!

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Whether you’re exhausted after a long work day or home late from a night on the town, removing makeup before bed can feel like an insurmountable task. Between waterproof mascara, smudge-proof foundation and lip stain that lives up to its name, sometimes it can seem easier to just ignore the chore and deal with it in the morning. We’re here to tell you that removing makeup is a non-negotiable for the long-term health of your skin. Read on to find out how to make the whole process easier on you and your complexion.

What Happens When You Don’t Remove Makeup? | How To Remove Your Makeup | How To Remove Special Occasion Makeup | What To Do After Removing Makeup 

What Happens When You Don’t Remove Your Makeup? 

Is sleeping in your makeup really that bad? In a word, “yes”! New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Charlotte Birnbaum explains: “Oil, dirt, pollutants and makeup when left on the skin [overnight] can lead to breakouts, irritation, styes and even accelerated aging of the skin.” In other words, you’re doing damage when you go to bed without a good cleanse. Taking five minutes to tackle the issue head on will make a world of difference now and later. 

And we get it, after a long day or night out, it can be tempting to hit the sheets without washing your makeup off, but this skin care step isn’t optional. While one slip-up won’t ruin your complexion, consistently skipping your nighttime cleanse can cause cumulative damage. Some of the other effects of inconsistent makeup removal include:

Dull skin 
Free radical damage
Clogged pores
Inflammation

Skin renews itself overnight, so when you leave makeup on, you are interfering with the skin’s natural turnover process whereby dead and damaged skin cells are shed from the surface and replaced by new, healthy cells. Hence the term “beauty sleep.”

How To Remove Your Makeup

Now that we’ve established that going to bed with makeup on is not the move, what’s the best way to remove it?

Double Cleansing 

It’s been buzzy in the skin care world for a minute, and for good reason. Double cleansing is the most effective way to break down makeup and other surface impurities like dirt and oil. This face washing technique begins with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a second cleanser of your choice, usually gel-based or foaming.

Double cleansing can seem daunting to anyone with oily skin but don’t let it scare you. The reasoning behind slathering your face in oils in the name of cleansing stems from the idea that “like dissolves like.” According to Healthline: “Putting clean, nourishing oils on your skin aims to help … lift excess sebum, the oily substance produced by glands on your skin, clean out clogged pores, like blackheads and whiteheads, and remove dead skin, pollutants and makeup.”

Because oil attracts oil, it’s a gentle first step to get rid of some of the pollution, dead skin, makeup and general gunk of the day that have accumulated on your face. This is why many makeup removers contain oil. Makes sense, right? 

Ready to give this a try? These are the steps to perform a double cleanse:

Break down makeup with a cleansing oil, balm or a creamy cleanser. The oil in the cleanser will solubilize oil-based products like foundation and mascara so they lift easily from your skin’s surface. Warm a small bit of Stone Crop Cleansing Oil in your hand. Then, use your fingers to swipe it across your eyelids and lips and use circular motions to lightly massage it over your face. Rinse clean with lukewarm water. Another good option is the Coconut Milk Cleanser, which is creamy and gentle enough for all skin types. 
Remove remaining impurities with a second cleanser. Now that you’ve loosened and lifted your makeup, you need to sweep away stubborn dirt, grime and bacteria that are left on the skin. Simply apply your favorite cleanser to wash your skin more deeply and target specific skin concerns such as acne or aging. With this two-step process, you clear both types of impurities that can clog pores, dull your skin and contribute to premature aging. Ideally, the second cleanser should be gel-based or foaming.

The Stone Crop Gel Wash is designed for all skin types. It hydrates while cleansing thanks to the inclusion of shea butter and stone crop ingredients. For those with problem skin, consider the Acne Advanced Cleansing Foam to clear blocked pores and clean the skin. This foam features time-released encapsulated salicylic acid to unclog pores, and contains a natural herb blend. Alternately, if you’re concerned with large pores, the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser minimizes the appearance of pores. This milky gel contains a Lactic Acid Complex that works together with mangosteen to give the skin a smoother, more radiant complexion by sloughing off dead skin.

Ready to start double cleansing? Watch this video for tips and product recommendations from our Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar.

 

Other Makeup Removal Tips 

Avoid Cleansing Wipes

Skip the cleansing wipes. While they may be convenient, most makeup wipes won’t fully remove your makeup. As James C. Marotta, MD tells Good Housekeeping, “very few makeup wipes contain ingredients that can actually break down all of your face oils, makeup and gunk on your skin, so you’re really just rubbing bacteria, irritants and makeup wipe residue around your skin.” Plus, many cleansing wipes contain chemical ingredients and preservatives that can irritate the skin and cause dryness. And if you’re looking for one more sign to ditch the wipes, think of their impact on the earth. Most makeup wipes aren’t biodegradable, and some estimates suggest that over 20 million pounds of them end up in landfills every day!  

Removing Eye Makeup 

Waterproof mascara and eyeliner can be notoriously difficult to remove. If you’ve done a double cleanse, you’ve probably removed most of your eye makeup, but it’s worth touching up the area with a natural and organic product like our Herbal Eye Make-up Remover. 

Don’t forget, the skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, so it’s important to be gentle. Instead of scrubbing vigorously, saturate a cotton pad with remover and hold it over each eye for ten seconds. This will give the remover time to break up and dissolve the makeup products before you gently wipe them off. If you need to get into the eye line and inner corners, gently wipe with a cotton swab to complete your cleanse.

Don’t Forget Your Neck And Hairline

You may have removed a layer of foundation from your face, but be sure you haven’t skipped your neck and hairline. If you stop short of these easy-to-miss areas, you can accumulate makeup residue that clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Pull back your hair with a headband and extend your face wash past your jaw to ensure you catch every last bit of makeup.

Try our Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser to remove the impurities of the day from your skin. Infused with chamomile, arnica and rosemary, this calming cream cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin prone to redness and makes a great second step in a double cleanse. 

If you’re fighting the appearance of breakouts, our Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser is the best choice to remove excess sebum from your complexion. It’s a clarifying cream-gel cleanser that treats oily and problem skin with cucumber and tea tree oil. Sweet almond milk and yogurt reduce the visible signs of problem skin without stripping the skin of moisture. In other words, it can help your skin recover from past “mistakes.”

Removing Special Occasion Makeup

Some occasions (like your wedding day) call for heavy-duty makeup, while others (Halloween parties) require full-fledged face paint. Whether your look is more romantic comedy or horror movie, the removal part can be a little scary. But fear not, we have a few tips, tricks and treats to help. 

Wedding Makeup

Since wedding makeup is essentially just long-wearing and waterproof makeup, you don’t have to veer too far from your usual routine, with a couple of exceptions. You have probably been spending extra time taking care of your skin leading up to the big day, so don’t stress too much about the aftermath of a very long day in full makeup, but all the more reason to get it off before bed! 

Start with the eyes. Your false eyelashes may have stayed on through your vows, first dance and those tear-jerker speeches, but they shouldn’t stay on overnight. Just like with waterproof mascara, your best bet is to use makeup remover on a cotton round and hold it over the eye for 10 or more seconds. This should loosen the glue and allow you to gently pull the false lashes off without taking any of your real ones with them. If you don’t have eye makeup remover, use your oil-based first step from your double-cleansing routine or simply place a warm, moist face cloth over the eye for 10 seconds. Long wearing eye shadow can be removed the same way. Make sure you’re treating the delicate area gently to avoid causing irritation to the skin.

To tackle the heavy-duty foundation, a double cleanse is recommended. Follow the instructions above and if you have the time and energy, finish off with an overnight mask to help replenish any moisture. The Kombucha Microbiome Leave-On Masque is a great option. 

Halloween Makeup

Halloween makeup is a whole different beast. Not only is it usually applied with a heavier hand than regular makeup, it can be a nightmare for your skin. While we strongly advise against it, the face paint sold at Halloween stores often gets used that one night of the year. As with all products you apply to your body, do your best to avoid ingredients like heavy metals, formaldehyde and petrolatum.  

To remove your Halloween makeup, start with an oil-based cleanser like the Stone Crop Cleansing Oil or a cream-based cleanser like the Coconut Milk Cleanser. Another option that can help break through that thick layer is the Kombucha Microbiome Foaming Cleanser. Crafted with micelles, an aggregate of mild surfactants gently trap and lift oil, dirt and debris like a magnet from the skin. The liquid-to-foam formula gently breaks down the makeup without overdrying. 

The next step in the process is a second cleanse. Whether the first cleanser was oil-based or foamy, chances are, there is still some makeup lingering. A gel or foaming cleanser is your best bet. And follow that with a swipe of toner like the Pineapple Refining Tonique for a gentle exfoliation or the Kombucha Microbiome Balancing Essence help soothe dry, dull skin. 

Pro tip: If your costume included body or face glitter, a lint roller will lift it off the skin. The adhesive is much gentler than what you’ll find in regular tape (which is what a lot of people use). 

Use Steam

Still not feeling squeaky clean? You can give your skin a facial steam to deepen your cleanse. Steam softens surface debris and releases any leftover grime and makeup that is still trapped in your pores after washing. Follow these steps for a facial steam at home:

Fill your sink or a bowl with hot water.
Place a large towel over your head.
Hover your face 5 – 10 inches away from the steam. Lower or raise your head for more or less heat.
Steam for 5 – 10 minutes (we recommend 2-minute intervals so you don’t overheat).

What To Do After You’ve Removed Your Makeup

Makeup removal gives your skin a clean slate, but it needs to be followed with proper care to maintain your skin’s health and resilience. After cleansing, continue your skin care routine with these essential steps:

Use a serum, oil or concentrate to target specific skin concerns and conditions. 
Moisturize to lock in hydration and protect your skin’s lipid barrier. 
Tap on an eye cream for a bright and smooth eye area. 
Apply SPF to protect your skin from the drying and aging effects of UV rays. 

Are you looking for more advice about which products to use in your cleansing routine? Visit an Eminence Organics Spa Partner for skin care recommendations from a licensed esthetician! 

This article was originally written in August 2019.

I always say you should treat your neck as an extension of your face. That means you should be caring for the skin on your neck in the same way that you care for the skin on your face (yes, that means cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing… the whole nine yards). After all, the neck is one of the first areas to show visible signs of aging, and that includes the horizontal lines and wrinkles that are commonly referred to as “tech neck.”

In this post, I’m sharing all things tech neck along with additional input from Dr. Kavita Mariwalla of Mariwalla Dermatology. I wanted to hear her thoughts on this topic as a medical skincare expert. Keep scrolling to learn all about the causes of tech neck and how to address it, according to us pros!

What Is Tech Neck, and What Causes It?

Tech neck is a colloquial term that refers to the premature development of horizontal lines across the neck caused by the position of our faces as we look down at technology. “In the past, we called them necklace lines,” Dr. Mariwalla says. “In general, the idea is that if you are looking down at your screen for many hours a day, there will be signs of aging and changes associated with draping that occur over time in the neck area.”

Over my thirty-year career as an esthetician, I can confidently say that the development of horizontal lines on the neck has always been prevalent. In fact, looking down at technology isn’t the only thing that can cause tech neck—your sleeping position has something to do with it, too. Back sleepers and people who sleep with their heads elevated on multiple pillows cause a 45-degree bend in their neck as they sleep, leading to the formation of lines and wrinkles.

With that being said, neck lines have certainly been exacerbated by the use of technology. It seems that as screen times increases, so does the development of premature folds and wrinkles. Dr. Mariwalla agrees. “Because of the amount of time we are spending at home and the increase in a digital-work-from-home-force more people are aware of it,” she says. “Interestingly, because we are working from home, I think people are spending more time looking at electronics and practicing poor posture.”

How Can I Prevent Tech Neck?

Tech neck can develop as early as your 20s or 30s. It’s difficult to get rid of once it appears, so prevention is key. Here are a few easy, expert-recommended ways to keep those pesky lines and wrinkles at bay.

Be Mindful of Your Posture

The best way to prevent tech neck is to be mindful of your posture and positioning throughout the day. If you spend hours looking down at a computer (like so many of us do), you may want to switch up your seating. Instead of looking down at your screen, keep your screen at eye level. This will keep your neck straight throughout the day, preventing premature lines and wrinkles from forming in the first place. “Create a space for working in your home that requires you to sit properly in a chair with good posture,” Dr. Mariwalla says. “Then, once you are done with your work be done with it, and don’t switch to sitting on the couch staring down at your phone.”

Sleep on One Pillow

Are you one of those aforementioned people who sleep on multiple pillows every night? Like I said before, this can be detrimental to the appearance of the skin on your neck because it can cause your neck to remain bent at an angle. Whenever your neck remains bent for long periods of time (such as when you sleep), it can encourage lines and wrinkles to form. Luckily, the fix is easy. Simply sleep on one pillow (the thinner the pillow, the better), so your neck remains in a more neutral position. It may not sound like much, but given that we spend nearly a third of our lives asleep, the effects really add up.

Use Sunscreen

UV rays are the number one cause of premature aging, which is why consistent sunscreen application is paramount. Make no mistake. This goes for the skin on your neck, too. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen someone apply sunscreen to their face, take whatever was left on their fingers, and bring it down to their neck. I can assure you that this application technique simply isn’t providing enough sun protection. You’re going to want to squeeze an additional nickel to quarter size out for the neck. Learn how to properly apply sunscreen properly to the neck, here.

Moisturize Every Day

Dry, damaged skin is more likely to develop early signs of visible aging, which is why it’s important to give your skin the moisture it needs. Using a neck cream daily, like this Intensive Firming Neck Creme, which is formulated to lift, de-puff, and nourish the delicate skin on the neck, will keep premature signs of aging at bay. (Then, be sure to read up on the difference between dry and dehydrated skin).

Use the Right Active Ingredients

Using skincare products with the right active ingredients can keep premature signs of aging—including tech neck–at bay. Below, find three effective ingredients that you should consider adding to your current skincare routine in order to prevent tech neck.

Retinol

Retinol has been proven to stimulate cell regeneration, boost the production of collagen, and promote skin elasticity, among other things. It’s a true multi-tasking skincare ingredient. One of the major benefits of using retinol (or a prescription retinoid) is that it can make a major impact on the appearance of wrinkles, and that includes wrinkles that are on the neck (take THAT, tech neck!).

Beware that prescription retinoids may prove irritating, especially to sensitive skin types, which is why it’s important to patch test, first. After all, the skin on your neck is thin and delicate, and the last thing you want to do is cause widespread irritation. Dr. Mariwalla suggests using a sandwiching technique, in which you apply moisturizer, then retinol, then another layer of moisturizer. This will help the sensitive skin on the neck tolerate the potentially irritating ingredient. (On that note, read my beginner’s guide to using retinol.) 

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are key in the prevention of premature aging. This is because they prevent free radicals (unstable electrons that attack healthy cells and change their composition) from oxidizing molecules. Much like the skin on your face, the skin on your neck can come into contact with damaging free radicals daily, whether that’s from UVA and UVB rays, pollution, or other environmental stressors. When exposed to these, the DNA, lipids, and proteins in our cells are susceptible to damage. What happens next? The production of collagen and elastin slows down, which can lead to loss of firmness and wrinkling. Protect your neck from free radicals by using an antioxidant-rich serum.

Peptides

Peptides are long or short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. These send signals to your cells to produce collagen. Dr. Mariwalla suggests incorporating peptides into your skincare routine since they can improve the quality of the skin on the neck. I recommend using a peptide serum in the evening to help your skin regenerate while you sleep.

What If I Already Have Lines on My Neck?

Proper skin care will certainly help lessen the appearance of neck lines and wrinkles, so I suggest practicing all of the above if you already have a case of tech neck. At the very least, this will ensure that lines and wrinkles won’t deepen, becoming even more stubborn and noticeable. With that being said, there are a few other options you turn to, including smoothing patches and professional treatments. Let’s talk about smoothing patches first.

Wrinkle and Line Smoothing Patches

Smoothing patches, such as those from Frownies and SiO Beauty, hold the skin taut to decrease the appearance of deep lines. I tried the Sio Beauty NeckLift Treatment, which is a silicone patch that hugs the contours of the neck. Since it needs to compress the skin to work, it feels tight (some people might find these too uncomfortable to wear overnight or for long periods of time). Facial patches like these discourage muscle movement and skin creasing, so they’re certainly worth checking out! (Read more about facial patches for wrinkle formation prevention here).

Professional Treatments

When it comes to professional options, which will offer fast and dramatic results, Dr. Mariwalla suggests micro-needling, microdroplets of Botox, and Ultherapy and Sofwave. The latter two use ultrasound technology to lift the neck, chin, and brow and improve lines and wrinkles. She also makes note of various laser treatments, which can resurface the skin’s texture. I have undergone a few treatments on the neck myself, and can confidently say there are several effective surgical (and non-surgical) ways to tighten the neck. Consult a dermatologist to find out which one is right for you.

I hope this helps you understand the causes of tech neck, as well as the best ways to prevent it and address it once it’s already appeared.

Next up, read all about microcurrent devices and how they can lift and tone your skin at home.

Tired of feeling stressed and guilty around candy come Halloween? As an intuitive eating dietitian, I’m sharing 3 ways to foster a healthy relationship with candy.

With Halloween around the corner, comes the inevitable stress of having access to an abundance of candy. In a culture that is constantly fear mongering around sugar consumption, how could you not stress about it?

But how does that stress affect your enjoyment of the holiday? How does that anxiety impact your kiddos (if you have ’em)? Do you find yourself sneaking candy after the kids go to bed and feeling guilty afterwards? Are your kids (again, if you have ’em) learning that candy is “bad” or “junk” from you?

What if you could have a more peaceful and neutral relationship to candy in your household?

What if you could tune into your body to tell you how much candy to eat (or not eat) instead of listening to arbitrary rules?

What if you could actually enjoy the candy without feeling guilty afterward?

What if your kiddos could approach candy with attunement and not feel like they have to eat it all because they don’t know when they’ll have another chance to?

It is all possible, my friend.

They key to changing your relationship to candy is changing your mindset around candy. How do you do that, exactly?

Here are 3 ways to stop feeling stressed and guilty around candy: 

1. Take candy off the forbidden food pedestal.

When you restrict certain foods or food groups because you feel out of control around them, you’re essentially putting them up on a pedestal. You’re giving them this forbidden food allure and power over you.

It’s kinda like how when you put a toddler in a room with a million toys and tell them the one toy they can’t have is the blue ball. Well, guess which toy they’re going to want to play with and will fixate on until they can?

As adults, we do the same thing with food. If you tell yourself you can’t have pizza or pasta or candy, guess which foods you’re going to constantly be thinking about?

You can also think of it as the “bad boy effect.” There’s something alluring about something or someone we’ve deemed bad for us. If you deem candy as bad, you might find you want it even more.

If you want a healthier relationship with candy, take it off the pedestal. Begin to see it as morally neutral. Give yourself permission to enjoy it without guilt.

Tune into your body and notice if you enjoy candy as much as you convinced yourself you did. Notice how candy makes you feel, mentally and physically.

Start to make choices around candy from a place of attunement, instead of a place of rules and restriction.

2. Keep candy in the house outside of Halloween.

An important piece of making peace with food (even candy) is giving yourself permission to eat it. I’m talking unconditional permission.

This is not permission only around Halloween. This is not permission only if you were “good” the rest of the day. This is not permission if you worked out that day.

This is permission, no matter the circumstances.

When you restrict food, you create a scarcity mindset around it. Your brain only thinks about that food and when you finally have access to it, you feel out of control, maybe you binge, and then convince yourself you can’t be trusted around it, and the restriction begins again.

But it’s the restriction of food that’s leading to the binging or feeling out of control, not the food itself.

Research shows this is the case. When folks are dieting, the pleasure centers in their brains light up even more in response to food that’s been off-limits compared to folks who are not restricting. No wonder you feel out of control around foods you’ve been avoiding.

If you only give yourself permission to have candy once a year, you can bet on a last supper effect (i.e. I must eat this all now because I don’t know when I’ll have it again). Giving yourself permission to have candy in the house outside of just Halloween time can help to neutralize the morality around it.

It can also help your brain to switch from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset, helping it to realize that you have access to candy whenever you want it, and not just on this one occasion each year. 

3. Watch the language you use.

The language we use around or toward food can impact our beliefs and feelings about food. If you’ve got kids at home, they’re going to adopt the language you use about food.

If you say “candy is full of junk”, you’ll believe that candy is junk.

If you say “I’m so bad for eating that”, your kids will think candy is bad.

If you say “we don’t keep candy in our house”, you’re creating a scarcity mindset around it.

Instead try saying phrases like:

“Candy is just candy, it’s neither good nor bad. Just like an apple is an apple – it’s neither good nor bad.”

“How does candy make me feel?” (Or to a kid, “how does your belly feel after you eat candy?”)

“All food serves a purpose. Candy gives me pleasure.”

“I can have candy at any time of year. Not just today.”

Are these tips helpful? What would you add to this list? Please leave a comment below and let me know!

For more intuitive eating blog posts, check out these below!

5 Tips to Make Meal Planning Easier

6 Tips to Make Cooking Easier

6 Ways to Find More Enjoyment in Eating

Is Food Addiction a Real Thing?

The Beginner’s Guide to Intuitive Eating

Perfect Baked Sweet Potato Recipe – The Real Food Dietitians

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There’s nothing quite like a face mask to amp up your skin care routine. The right mask is not just an indulgent treat — it can also tackle a number of key skin concerns and conditions. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, fine lines, large pores, acne or a combination, there is a mask that will work for you. Read on to learn about the different types of face masks, how to apply them and which ones are right for your age range and unique complexion.

Benefits Of Masking | Types Of Face Masks | Face Mask For Your Skin Type | Face Mask For Your Age | How Often Should You Use A Face Mask? 

Benefits Of Masking: What You Didn’t Know About Masks

Just like a serum or moisturizer, a face mask is a skin care vehicle. It delivers highly concentrated actives, vitamins and nutrients to the skin to improve its overall health. What makes face masks unique is that they are occlusive — meaning they create a physical barrier that locks in the beneficial ingredients, allowing the skin to absorb them more efficiently.  

Face masks are designed to be used intermittently to give your skin an instant boost. Depending on what your skin needs, there is a mask that can do one (or a combination) of the following:

Hydrate and moisturize dry skin
Refine large pores
Improve skin texture
Absorb excess oil and dirt
Decongest clogged pores
Minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Enhance elasticity
Improve the look of breakouts
Brighten dark spots

Types Of Face Masks Available

With so many options out there, how do you choose the right face mask to cater to your unique needs? Let’s do a deeper dive to figure out which mask texture is right for you. 

Cream

Think of the texture of a rich moisturizer — that’s the best way to describe the feel of a cream-based mask. These face masks do wonders for adding moisture and nutrients back into the skin, helping maintain a plump and youthful-looking appearance.

Cream masks can target a range of conditions — from the visible signs of aging to problem skin. The Bamboo Age Corrective Masque and the Coconut Cream Masque both smooth the appearance of dry, dehydrated or aging skin overnight, while our Clear Skin Probiotic Masque suits acne-prone and oily skin types.

The Kombucha Microbiome Leave-On Masque is a no-rinse probiotic skin care formula that suits all skin types. It is designed to support the skin’s natural recovery process and maintain a healthy skin moisture barrier. This rich, slow-absorbing mask provides soothing hydration and comfort to dry, dull skin. And don’t stop there. Eminence Organics International Educator Brian Goodwin lets us in on a skin care secret: “An insider tip is that most of our cream-based masks can be used as a leave-on treatment.” In other words, keep it on for10 minutes or all night, and let that goodness sink in! 

Gel 

Gel masks have the consistency of a jam or jelly. With their lightweight texture, they are an excellent choice for oily to normal skin types. Many gel masks include astringent ingredients like raspberries and blackberries which minimize oil and tighten the appearance of pores. Others are formulated with hydrating ingredients like stone crop and honey which replenish the look of dry and dehydrated skin. 

Our Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque is a great option for those in search of a firmer-looking complexion. It contains a cocktail of rhubarb extract, avocado oil, leafy greens and citrus. Whichever mask you choose, you can amplify your results with this skin care tip from Brian: “Apply your favorite gel-based mask in the shower to make it an active in-shower treatment.” The heat from the shower can open the pores and allow the skin to better absorb the beneficial ingredients.  

Clay 

With its absorbent, exfoliating and astringent properties, clay treats ongoing skin conditions related to acne, such as excess oil and inflammation. A clay mask can also be applied just to the problem areas, meaning it can double as a spot treatment. Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar recommends using the Acne Advanced Clarifying Masque to treat bumpy and congested skin: “It’s nice and creamy in texture, and you literally only need a bit … Just hit those little areas and let it dry.” 

Exfoliating 

Exfoliating masks are formulated to remove dead skin cells and enhance your skin’s natural turnover process. This type of face mask may take the form of a chemical peel which employs alpha or beta hydroxy acids to dissolve dead skin cells and clear them from the skin’s surface. The hypoallergenic Radish Seed Refining Peel reduces the appearance of problem skin and the look of fine lines and wrinkles. For pore-clearing exfoliating benefits, our Product Support Representatives recommend pairing it with either our Yellow Sweet Clover Anti-Redness Masque for drier skin types or our Seabuckthorn Balancing Masque for combination skin.

Warming 

Warming masks contain active spices like paprika and cinnamon that cause a tingling sensation and make the skin feel warm. This is the result of increased blood flow to the area, which also explains the rosy glow that some might experience. The immediate effects last from 20 – 60 minutes before revealing a fresh, healthy complexion. However, these masks aren’t for everyone: If you have sensitive skin, you’re better off choosing a cream or gel-based mask that won’t exacerbate your symptoms. 

One of our warming masks, the Eight Greens Phyto Masque – Hot has been recognized as a 2020 Allure Best Of Beauty Award winner within the “Clean Beauty” category. Blended from whole plants, seeds and spices, this formula invigorates and rejuvenates the appearance of the skin. 

Our Turmeric Energizing Treatment is also designed to awaken dull, tired skin. Formulated with turmeric as well as citrine gemstones and zeolite, this mask only needs water to activate a fluffy mousse bursting with energy. 

Watch our In The Mix video below to find out more about our warming face masks:

 

The Best Face Mask For Your Skin Type

If you prefer to use one mask at a time, it’s important to choose the right face mask for your skin type and skin concerns. To get your wheels turning, here are our suggestions for each skin type:

Dry Skin

Dry skin often means dealing with flaky patches, a scaly skin texture or cracked, itchy skin. Boasting shea butter and grape seed oil, the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque provides important fatty acids to help with the appearance of skin softness and dryness. 

Oily Skin

Oily skin is characterized by an overproduction of sebum in the skin. Often this excess oil may interact with bacteria and dead skin cells resulting in breakouts. Try the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque for this skin type as it contains Vitamins C and E to improve the appearance of skin health. 

Customer Nina T. said in an online review: “Amazing smelling masque that really works magic on your skin!! … when you wash it off your skin looks hydrated and refreshed!!!”

Combination Skin

It can be frustrating to develop oily patches on your chin and forehead but dryness on your cheeks. The Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque helps to balance the look of the skin by firming its appearance and revealing a smooth radiance. 

You can also treat combination skin with more than one mask. Spot masking (or multi-masking) is done by applying different masks to different parts of the face all at once. For example, if your T-zone is oily, but your cheeks are dry, applying masks that address the specific issue in each area of the face can provide a super customized treatment that targets the issue without aggravating the rest of your combination skin. 

Sensitive Skin

Those with sensitive skin should carefully read labels and conduct patch tests for any new product before applying it all over the face. If you do have a reaction, you can apply the Calm Skin Arnica Masque to improve the look of redness caused by dryness and other irritation. 

Normal Skin

If you have normal skin, then your goal is to maintain your skin’s health. The Stone Crop Masque contains hydrating stone crop, antioxidant-rich lemon and other ingredients that reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the overall look of the skin. 

If you’re looking to address particular skin concerns and conditions, here are some recommendations:

The Best Type Of Face Mask For Your Age

Now that you know what product suits you by skin concern, you can also filter based on ingredients suited to your age bracket.

Still not sure which mask is right for you? A great way to test out some of our best-selling masks is with our limited edition Mix & Masque Trio Gift Set. Enjoy three of our most popular masks, designed to be mixed, layered together or explored individually to bring out refreshed and visibly rejuvenated skin. These three potent masks can be paired however you like to target your skin’s unique needs. Use each mask individually to reap its benefits or match in multiple ways to create your perfect masking ritual. Perfect for gifting to a loved one or to yourself!

How Often Should You Use A Face Mask?

Now that you know which masks are right for your skin, the next question is: How often should you apply a face mask? We recommend adding a face mask to your skin care routine once or twice a week. Masking should follow cleansing and toning. These steps clear impurities and excess oil, provide a base layer of hydration and prep your skin to better absorb the benefits of your face mask.

Once you’re ready, follow these skin care tips to apply a face mask properly:

1. Apply Mask Evenly

It may be tempting to slather on an inch-thick layer of product, but more isn’t necessarily better. A cherry-sized amount is plenty to achieve the results you’re looking for. Natalie advises evenly applying this amount in a “pantyhose-thin” layer over the entire face. Pro tip: Use facial massage techniques to amp up the benefits of this part of your routine!

Remember, Eminence Organics face masks contain concentrated amounts of beneficial vitamins and nutrients. We recommend adding two to three drops of water to your product and warming it between your hands before massaging it into your face — especially if the product is gel-based. This will allow for more slip, easier application and (bonus!) less product waste.

2. Remember To Include Your Neck & Décolleté

That cherry-sized amount is just enough to also include your neck and chest. These areas take on the visible signs of age much earlier than the face due to their exposure to environmental stress — and they’re easily forgotten in a skin care routine. Pay these areas a bit of extra attention by including them in your mask application.

3. Leave On For 5 – 10 Minutes

Most masks can be kept on for 5 – 10 minutes, but the duration can vary from mask to mask. Some face masks act quickly and can be removed after a short period of time, while others can be left on as an overnight treatment to deeply hydrate your skin while you sleep. We always advise reviewing the label directions to apply your particular product so you get the most out of it without overdoing it!

4. Remove Gently With A Damp Cloth

Don’t undo the benefits of your face mask by aggressively scrubbing it off. Instead, be delicate with your complexion. Use lukewarm water to gently remove the mask from your face. If you choose to use a washcloth, ensure it’s clean and has soft fibers that won’t irritate your skin.

Watch this video for a step-by-step guide on how to apply a face mask:

 

Are you wondering which masks to add to your skin care routine? Visit an Eminence Organics Spa Partner for recommendations.

This article was originally written in September 2019.

At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we’re bursting with gratitude for everything nature gives us. From fruits and seeds to herbs and flowers, so many plants play an essential role in our health, our diets and, of course, in skin care. We feature potent botanicals in every product, so we’ve seen the power of organics firsthand. With that in mind, we feel it’s only right to give back to the earth that gives us so much. That’s why Eminence Organics created Forests for the Future™ in 2013. 

Through this initiative, we plant a tree for every product sold. We also train farmers and support environmental restoration projects in the rural communities where trees are planted. This is all made possible by our generous partner, Trees for the Future, an incredible non-profit organization that improves the livelihoods of impoverished farmers by training them in agroforestry and sustainable land use, while helping to organize the hands-on work to make our dreams a reality.

Let’s meet David Abach, a Kenyan farmer who spoke about the numerous benefits his farm has seen since joining this program, and get a deeper look at the real impact that Eminence Organics and Trees for the Future make.

David’s Story 

When David joined the Eminence-sponsored Trees for the Future’s Forest Garden Training Program in 2020, he identified that roughly half a hectare of his farm could be converted into a Forest Garden. 

Over the past decade, Trees for the Future has championed a Forest Garden approach. This method uses regenerative farming principles to simulate a natural forest ecosystem within existing farmlands. Forest Gardens are made up of various trees, shrubs, fruits, vegetables and herbs placed strategically to offer each plant the support it needs to sustain itself while replenishing the land with much-needed vitamins and minerals. 

Through the education provided by the program, David quickly started learning about sustainable and regenerative agroforestry techniques that could directly benefit his land.

A Better Farm

Farms that incorporate Forest Gardens produce a large variety of healthy, wholesome crops, giving farmers access to nutritious food. This increases biodiversity and the farmers’ income while restoring their land and capturing atmospheric carbon. Speaking on biodiversity, David says, “[My farm] is better today. Previously, I planted only maize and beans. But because of Trees for the Future, I have Cajanus trees and vegetables for getting food.” 

David is implementing a number of regenerative agroforestry techniques in his Forest Garden. One such technique is called alley cropping. This method uses rows of trees or shrubs to create alleys that provide the structure needed to grow multiple crops within a limited space. As mentioned, David uses Cajanus (pigeon peas) in his alley cropping to help increase vital nutrients in his soil. This serves as a living fence around the perimeter of the Forest Garden, which not only enriches the soil but also provides animal fodder and serves as a windbreak. “Without the trees … very heavy wind can fell the crops,” causing damage to David’s crop and adversely affecting his quality of living.

Thousands of Trees

In just three years, David has gone from 12 trees on this section of his land to more than 3,300. Though still growing and reaching maturity, these trees are already creating a beneficial microclimate on his farm. 

These trees have helped David combat an issue that previously left his crops vulnerable: Kenya’s climate. “During the dry season, there is [a different] climate within the [Forest] Garden,” David explains. While the arid environment can wreak havoc on crops, the presence of trees “helps the crops to not dry so much, unlike when it is just bare.”  

Joining the Carbon Market

Through his participation in the Trees for the Future program, David has also gained the ability to join the thriving carbon market. The carbon market refers to a system for buying and selling “carbon credits,” which allow organizations to buy into an environmental project. This raises much-needed funds while allowing corporations to offset their greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate carbon dioxide’s effect on our atmosphere. The trees on David’s farm will let him earn an additional stream of income through carbon credit sales as Trees for the Future Forest Garden farmers in Kenya are able to participate in the carbon market. 

Better Soil

Outside his Forest Garden, David has continued to grow maize and beans using traditional methods. The difference between what grows inside the Forest Garden and outside of it is stark. 

“There is a big difference in soil quality,” he shares. “If you compare where there are vegetables growing alongside the Cajanus and where there is maize [without Cajanus], you find that the maize is yellow. It shows that there is nutrient deficiency — unlike where I am using compost. I see that the Forest Garden is better.” The Cajanus trees help to enrich David’s land with nitrogen, producing hearty, robust crops that he can sell or use to sustain his family. 

A Promising Future

From food production to climate change mitigation, David is using his Forest Garden, created through the work of these initiatives, to build a better life for himself and his 13-person household. 

“Before, I had to take money from my pocket to get vegetables. Now, because I get vegetables from my Forest Garden, what I would have used to buy vegetables I can use to buy fish and meat and school items for my children.” 

Since David joined the Trees for the Future Forest Garden Training Program, sponsored in-part by Eminence Organic Skin Care, he’s been able to access the education and resources that have made all of this possible. We are thrilled that we played a role in providing David with a stable source of food and income to help him create a better life. 

Read more about David’s story here.