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Do you struggle with constantly shiny skin? Are you having to reapply your makeup every few hours? Is accidentally leaving your blotting sheets at home a cause for panic? Chances are you have oily skin (Skin Type 1-4), generally characterized by excess oil production and visibly larger pores (most commonly in the T-zone). This type of skin is also more prone to clogged pores and blemishes. While your skin type boils down to a few unchangeable factors, such as genetics and age, a thoughtful skincare routine and the right ingredients can do wonders for managing oily skin and preventing breakouts.

How To Tell If You Have Oily Skin

Yes, all people produce oil, also known as sebum, as it is a way for our bodies to excrete waste out of the skin. This is how your skin protects and moisturizes itself. Sebum is key to preventing moisture loss and maintaining barrier function. Dry skin types naturally produce very little sebum on their own (not to be confused with dehydrated skin, which lacks water).

But what constitutes a true, oily skin type? I’m here to help you understand oily skin and its many facets. While we can’t always identify it by appearance– as some people experience thin, slick, and shiny sebum, and others matte, waxy sebum–there are a few other factors that we can keep in mind.

Pore Size

The size of your pores is generally the first place to start when determining if you have oily skin. The larger the pore, the more oil you will produce. This is because oil and sweat expand the pore walls, causing them to stretch out. The good news? You can minimize the appearance of your pores over time.

Acne

Not all people with oily skin will have acne, however, almost everyone with acne has oily skin. Oil laying on top of the skin breeds bacteria, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Clogged pores ultimately result from hardened oil and dead skin cells falling into the pore instead of properly shedding.

Age

Sebum production can also change with age, usually decreasing in production as you get older. In general, your skin type is likely to change every seven to nine years. One study found that sebum production increases during teenage years, declining for women during menopause and rapidly decreasing for men a bit later in life. Since sebum provides natural lubrication for the skin, using hydrating serums and the right moisturizer for your skin type is important to your routine as you get older. I’ve always said that so many skin problems are a direct result of not allowing your skincare routine to grow alongside you. While certain products may have been the key to solving relentless hormonal acne in your teens, they likely won’t deliver the same results as your skin matures and develops new problems.

Still unsure if your skin is classified as oily? I encourage you to take the Skin Type Quiz! With just a few simple questions, you can learn more about your skin, as well as receive personalized product recommendations. 

Ingredients To Use For Oily Skin

While we can’t change our skin type or minimize our pores (just their appearance), there are still ingredients that can help decrease oil production and minimize breakouts. So, let’s dive into the specific ingredients that you should use to care for your oily skin. 

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is one of the golden ingredients for skin, and rightly so. Most people associate it with being an oil-soluble BHA that dives into the pores to sweep out oil and reduce the formation of acne. While this is true (and a great reason to use it as a spot treatment!) salicylic acid is useful in so many other ways.

One of the best parts about salicylic acid is that it can provide nearly instant results. For starters, it is great for softening the outer layer of skin. This ingredient provides conditioning benefits that not only improve how the skin looks but also how it feels. It clears clogged pores and lessens visible bumps and breakouts in products like Pore + Wrinkle Perfecting Serum. Salicylic acid is also an excellent superficial exfoliant. It works to slough dead cells off the outer layers of skin, providing an instantly smoother, brighter complexion.

While many people hold the superstition that all exfoliating acids have to be at a low pH, salicylic acid provides wonderful exfoliating effects at a neutral pH. A great example of this is the AHA/BHA Blemish Control Cleanser which uses salicylic acid as an exfoliating BHA to clean oil from the skin as well as exfoliate and remove dead skin.

There are also a few benefits to salicylic acid that may take a few weeks to notice. For one, this ingredient has noticeable anti-inflammatory effects that are great for those that suffer from acne and signs of inflammation. It will also communicate with the cells and tell them to reduce the amount of sebum they are producing. This not only removes the oil from the pores but also helps decrease the overall amount of oil produced on the skin. Pretty incredible, right?

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is an ingredient that can do far more for your skin than most people know. One study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Laser Therapy found that daily application of two percent niacinamide significantly reduced the rate at which the body produced sebum as well as reduced overall sebum levels in only 4-6 weeks. Niacinamide’s sebum-reducing properties are also great for those that struggle with the occasional oil-induced breakouts.

Sodium PCA

Sodium PCA is another great ingredient because this one is actually an inherent part of sebum that is produced within the skin, meaning it’s a natural component already. PCA is a great material on its own, but when combined with sodium, it makes for an even better delivery system into the skin. It also serves as a humectant, which will help draw moisture up into the skin without the use of other lipids. 

Witch Hazel

While witch hazel has built itself an unpleasant reputation for being drying and irritating, this misunderstood ingredient is actually a great option for those with oily skin. If it still stings to think about (those ‘90s toners were no joke), I think it’s important to note that products no longer formulate with harsh concentrations of 100% witch hazel. New formulations combine a small amount of witch hazel with hydrating ingredients, allowing you to reap the ingredient’s oil-cutting benefits without drying out your skin. Witch hazel’s astringency effect is great for tightening pores, healing the skin, and reducing inflammation, making it a hero product for those with excess oil.

While toners like Balancing Skin Tonic are the most classic method for delivering witch hazel, masks like Energizing Clay Masque and moisturizers like Daily Mattifying Solution are great alternatives with the same astringent benefits!

Panthenol

Lastly, Panthenol is an amazing ingredient when it comes to reducing inflammation. It is also non-comedogenic, making it a great choice for those struggling with acne. It’s great for improving skin conditions and reducing any scarring associated with acne.

Ingredients To Avoid For Oily Skin

Now that you know oily skin’s ingredient heroes, it’s time to discuss the equally important matter of which ingredients to avoid when caring for oily skin. Here are a few ingredients that I recommend keeping out of your routine… 

Drying Alcohols

You may be thinking that the goal when dealing with oily skin is to dry it out, but this is not the case. Products containing drying alcohols are only going to strip your skin entirely of sebum, causing it to go into panic mode and produce even more. After all, sebum provides that natural lubrication that keeps your skin healthy. We don’t want to eliminate it, we just want to keep it at manageable levels.

Strong Cleansers

Many foaming or gel cleansers are still formulated with ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, or Ammonium Laureth Sulfate. While these ingredients are surfactants, meaning they are cleansing agents that cut oil from the skin, they are not in alignment with your skin’s natural pH. These ingredients will strip too much water out of your skin with every wash, leaving you with damaged, dehydrated skin.

Mineral Oil and Petrolatum

Oily and acne-prone skin types should steer clear of mineral oil and petrolatum due to their comedogenic properties. These ingredients are very occlusive and are likely to trap dead skin cells and sweat into your skin, leading to clogged pores. 

Isopropyl palmitate and Isopropyl Myristate

These are esters that are commonly used as a thickening agent in moisturizers and hair care. While they are not necessarily a no-no for oily skin, those with acne should try to avoid them due to their comedogenic properties. They may feel lighter than traditional oils, however, they are known to cause clogged pores and contribute to breakouts with repeated use. 

The most important thing to keep an eye out for when researching products is to pay attention to where your information is coming from. A lot of skincare do’s and don’ts can be demonstrated with science, but a lot of it just comes down to experience. It’s critical to look at who you’re receiving information from and what qualifications they have. At the end of the day, you can spend a lot of money on products falsely advertised for oily skin and still end up disappointed when you’re not getting the results you wanted.

Next, learn how to spot-treat a pimple at every stage.

Bad body image day? Or week? Or month? We’ve all been there. And summertime is especially hard for body image. Sharing five helpful tips to cope with a poor body image day.

Summer is THE hardest season for body image so if you find yourself struggling right now please know that you are NOT alone.

Why is summer so tough for body image? 

It’s freaking hot out so you’re going to want to wear less clothing. Less clothing means more of your body is exposed, opening you up to more vulnerability.
It’s swimsuit season – need I say more?
Summer is a season for more social outings and gatherings. This can bring up a lot of insecurities, especially if your body changed over the winter and you’re seeing people who you haven’t seen in some time.

Our culture doesn’t make it any easier on us either. We’re bombarded with ads telling us to get “bikini ready”, fitness instructors telling us to “get those six pack abs for the beach,” and wellness influencers selling us on “feeling our best this season” by purchasing their detox tea.

No wonder you feel so much pressure to change your body come summertime.

Rather than looking for a quick weight loss fix which will ultimately lead to weight regain, what if you chose to work with your body instead of working against it?

What if you chose to cope with a poor body image day instead of trying to “fix” your body?

Your body doesn’t need fixing. The culture and systems of oppression at play that say your body is not inherently worthy need fixing. 

5 Ways to Cope with a Bad Body Image Day (or Season)

1. Sit in the suck

There is healing and value in sitting in the suck (as body image therapist Bri Campos refers to it). We need to validate our emotions. To let grief and sadness and anxiety wash over and through us.

There is a profound valid grief that comes up in the acknowledgment that we live in a fat-phobic society that does not accommodate for fat bodies.

Allow yourself to feel your feelings – give them space. Maybe you process them in therapy (with a fat positive therapist or dietitian).

Sweeping your emotions under the rug is only going to create a build-up and once there’s no room left under that rug, those repressed emotions are going to feel BIG and intense because they’ve been bottled up for so long.

You can’t toxic positivity your way out of a bad body image day. Give yourself grace and validation for how you are feeling. Hold yourself with tenderness.

2. Know what your “off ramps” are.

Poor body image can feel like you’re driving on a rotary and you just keep going around and around and around because you don’t see any off ramps (shout out to Marci Evans for this analogy!). You’re stuck in it and you’re having a hard time seeing a way out.

Although it’s important to honor and sit with your feelings, you don’t want to be in your feels 24-7. When you’re ready to shift off the rotary, remember what your off ramps are – these are tools, skills, practices, and actions that make you feel better.  

Your off ramps (or body image toolbox) will be unique to you. Here are some examples that might resonate with you (feel free to add them to your rotary!):

meditation
dancing
singing
art
walking outside
getting in nature
stretching
drinking water
taking a shower
swimming
calling a friend
loving on a pet
writing or journaling
lifting weights
yoga
listening to a favorite podcast
getting a massage or using self-massage
lighting a candle
buying fresh flowers
utilizing a mantra
practicing gratitude
taking a nap or resting
reading a favorite book
sipping warm tea
wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket
visiting your favorite coffee shop

3. Aim for 5 percent better.

What small act can you take today to make yourself feel 5% better? I love the concept of 5% better because it takes some of the pressure off.

When it comes to body image, there are so many body positive messages telling you to love your body, and it creates another unrealistic ideal to aspire to. It’s another thing to feel like you’re failing at.

Better body image does not mean loving your body or liking how you look. It means taking care of your body, treating it with respect, and listening to and honoring its cues.

You don’t need to aim for feeling 100% better because that’s also not realistic given the oppressive culture we live in. But can you engage in something that makes you feel 5% better? You’re aiming for a subtle shift. A small act.

Hilary Kinavey and Dana Sturtevant, authors of Reclaiming Body Trust, tell their clients and members of their community to aim for C- work. Once again, we’re not looking for A+ body image work – that’s going to set us up for perfectionism and black-and-white thinking, which is inherent in diet culture and white supremacy.

Can you aim for C- body image work? Can you aim for feeling 5% better today?

4. Practice self-compassion and mindfulness.

Mindfulness allows us to sit with what is without judgment. This goes back to what I was talking about earlier with sitting in the suck. Notice what feelings are coming up for you in the moment and give them space to move through you.

Mindfulness also allows us to remain open and curious – perhaps you can get curious around what prompted the bad body image day. Was there a trigger?

Maybe you saw some photos of yourself on Facebook that you didn’t like. Maybe you’re at that time in your cycle when you’re extra bloated. Maybe you spent too much time scrolling on Instagram comparing your body to others.

Knowing your triggers can also be helpful in coping with bad body image days. It allows you to name what’s happening and provides some context. “Oh that makes a lot of sense I’m having a bad body image day today because I’m on day 14 of my cycle.”

Information and data collecting can feel empowering too because it helps you feel less helpless around why you might feeling a certain way.

You might also dig a little deeper – if the narrative in your head says “I feel fat”, see if you can dig a little deeper and ask yourself “what else am I feeling right now?” You might notice you’re feeling burnt out after a few really busy weeks at work, maybe you’re feeling a lot of grief after the loss of a loved one, maybe you’re feeling stressed out because of a conflict with a friend.

Body image is often a window into our deeper emotional experiences. You focus on body image because it’s familiar and it feels like there’s something you can change or fix. And it feels easier to fixate on the body than it does on the deeper, more painful emotions that maybe there is no immediate fix for.

Again this is an opportunity to practice self-compassion. Talk to yourself with kindness and understanding. “Oh sweetie, of course you’re feeling bad about your body right now. You’ve had a really stressful couple weeks at work and you’re totally burnt out. It makes complete sense you don’t feel good in your body right now.”

Self-compassion is key. Ask yourself, how would I talk to my best friend who is having a hard body image day? Can you offer some of that kindness to yourself?

5. Name it to distance from it.

As humans we have a tendency to over identify with our thoughts. A bad body image day might lead you to say things to yourself like:

I have the worst body image.

I hate my body.

I’ll never have a good relationship with my body.

I’m so gross. 

Rather than saying, I have the worst body image or I hate my body, can you try saying “I’m noticing that I’m having a hard body image day.”

Not only does this create a little bit of distance from the thought but it also serves as a reminder that this feeling is fleeting and temporary. It does not need to define you.

Were these tips helpful? If so, let me know in the comments below. I’d LOVE to hear from you!

For more body image related blog posts:

3 Ways to Navigate When Clothes Don’t Fit You (without another diet!)

How to Make Your Social Media More Body Positive

Can You Lose Weight with Intuitive Eating?

Never miss a blog post! Sign up to receive my monthly newsletter with a round-up of blog posts from the previous month and get my FREE guide when you sign up: Rediscover the Joy in Eating: 5 Simple Steps to Stop Stressing Over Food + Enjoy Every Bite.

The Best Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Recipe

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Have you noticed acne around your mouth? Or maybe you’re dealing with uneven texture or redness. While acne near the mouth is an issue for some, there are other common causes of texture, redness and bumps in that area. Read on as we explore the different types of skin issues that can develop around the mouth, how to identify them, what causes them and how to treat them.

Acne Around The Mouth 

Acne is a skin condition that can show up as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and other blemishes. The four main factors that contribute to acne according to the Mayo Clinic are excess oil (sebum) production, clogged hair follicles, bacteria and inflammation. On top of this, there are certain things that may trigger or worsen acne, including hormonal changes, certain medications and stress. 

While it can often be confused for other issues, especially when it’s limited to a certain area like the lips, jawline and chin, acne around the mouth tends to look like “typical” acne. Along with redness, you’ll see pustules (whiteheads) and some congestion (comedones or blackheads). This could be triggered by a few things. Touching your face with your hands can introduce acne-causing bacteria to your skin, as can using things around the mouth that may be covered in bacteria (cell phones and some musical instruments). Additionally, certain ingredients in products like lip gloss can clog pores and contribute to acne in the area, according to Byrdie. 

New York-based dermatologist, Dr. Hooman Khorasani, tells us: “The most common form of acne found on or around the lip is non-inflammatory comedonal acne, where white or black comedones are often seen. Comedonal acne results when the hair follicles on the lip margins are occluded. The most common culprit lies in the application of occlusive products such as Vaseline, lip balm, makeup or other comedogenic creams. Treatment involves discontinuing the application of the occlusive agent, as well as application of topical tretinoin and exfoliation.” 

Another common cause of acne around the mouth is wearing a mask. Heat and moisture can get trapped against the skin, irritating the oil glands, which can result in pimples — or “maskne” as it has come to be known in the post-2020 era. Bacteria thrive in a moist and humid environment, making frequent maskers (like spa professionals and hospital workers) susceptible to breakouts in the area. Wearing makeup under a mask doesn’t help and neither does reusing masks without washing them (with gentle detergent) after each wear. 

Hormones can also be the culprit when it comes to blemishes along the chin and jawline. Though we often associate acne with our teen years, hormonal acne can appear at any time and is caused by an excess of hormones due to menstruation, pregnancy and increased androgen levels. These fluctuations result in inflammation, excessive oil production, clogged skin cells and bacteria production. While it tends to appear in the T-zone during puberty, hormonal acne typically forms along the chin and jawline in adults. 

Whatever the cause, make sure to keep the area clean. A swipe of the Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel is a great way to minimize breakouts in the area, especially under a mask or face covering. It contains gentle salicylic acid that removes surface impurities and dirt from the skin and willow bark to improve the look of the skin in the area. 

How To Treat Acne Around The Mouth

If this is what you’re seeing around the mouth, cleansing and exfoliating the area is the best way to treat it. Our Acne Advanced Cleansing Foam is a great place to start. It contains encapsulated salicylic acid which gently exfoliates and tones the look of uneven skin. Follow it up with the Acne Advanced Clarifying Mask and Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator and you’ll be good to go. 

Our Clear Skin Probiotic products are another option for treating acne around the mouth. Try the Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser, which gives a soft, gentle foaming action, and follow it with the Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturizer. Creamy and lightweight, it applies really nicely to the skin. Both use tea tree oil, willow bark extract and cucumber to help treat the skin. 

Perioral Dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is a red rash that can appear around the mouth. Signs of this condition include scaly, dry and flaky skin with swollen, inflamed bumps called papules — no wonder it can easily be mistaken for acne. This rash is most common in young women between the ages of 15 and 45. 

Some of the causes of perioral dermatitis include the use of topical steroid creams, hormonal changes and dysfunction in the epidermal layer. It can also be triggered by ingredients in products that you use in the area, so changes in toothpaste, irritants from shaving cream and even certain types of chewing gum can bring on this uncomfortable condition. Other things that can aggravate it include coffee, alcohol and spicy foods. While eliminating these things from your life isn’t always easy, it can make a big difference once the cause is identified. Pro tip: Brush your teeth before you wash your face so that any potential irritants can be rinsed away. 

Another common ingredient that can cause or exacerbate the condition is SLS, or sodium lauryl sulfate, which is used in many facial cleansers. Eminence products contain no SLS, so making the switch to one of our organic cleansers can be a good first step. 

It’s best to cease and desist if any of these culprits are in your rotation. In other words, if you’ve changed something about your routine lately, you may be able to trace it back to one thing and eliminate that. 

Perioral dermatitis may last for months or even years without treatment. There is no cure, but long-term remissions are possible. It is recommended that you consult your doctor or dermatologist if you suspect the rash or breakouts around your mouth are not acne. Sometimes the rash disappears, then reappears. The same treatments that worked the first time are likely to work again.

Watch as our Lead Skin Care Trainer, Natalie Pergar, discusses the difference between acne around the mouth and perioral dermatitis, and suggests some products that help treat acne around the mouth. 

 

Are you dealing with breakouts or a rash around your mouth? Visit an Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find out whether it’s acne or something else, how to treat it and when to see a dermatologist.  

 

Clean face? Check! Favorite Serums? Check! Daily application of sunscreen… and wait, what are those white blobs? 

We all know that wearing sunscreen is a must at this point, so it’s not too surprising if some of you have started to notice small white blobs, or “pills,” occasionally forming after application. At the bare minimum, pilling is a waste of product, but it’s generally pretty frustrating as well. When something so integral to your daily routine causes such an unattractive result, it leaves you questioning what went wrong, and more importantly— how can it be prevented. So, let’s take a look at why these annoying pills form.

Why Does Sunscreen Pill?

When creating a sunscreen, there are a few key elements that a formulator must keep in mind. For one, they’ll want it to lay down on the skin and create a uniform film, allowing the sunscreen agents to disperse evenly. They will also want to ensure it stays put and doesn’t migrate on the skin. This is important to maintain the consistent, uniform coverage necessary to pass SPF testing. So typically, certain ingredients are incorporated to form films on the skin to keep it in place. Once the film is formed (depending on which ingredients were used), any rubbing on the sunscreen can break the film up and create what looks like pilling. 

Which Ingredients Cause Pilling?

There are a few different ingredients to keep an eye out for when it comes to pilling. Gums are the most common (and easiest) film formers to use. Ingredients like guar gum, sclerotium gum, xanthan gum, and many others containing the word gum are commonly found in sunscreen. There are also polymers (like accolades, copolymers, or a variety of different silicone polymers) that are used to lock this film in place. 

These ingredients do not pose a risk of pilling on their own, but rather when you’re applying sunscreen with other products like serums, moisturizers, or makeup. When pairing a sunscreen containing gums or polymers with another product containing gums or polymers, the two will grab onto each other or interact. Because they’re incompatible, this can lead to the dreaded pilling.

By either rubbing your sunscreen after application or incorporating additional products with polymers and gums, the sunscreen film can break up and form pills.

How Can Pilling Be Prevented?

Weekly Exfoliation

A thoughtful skincare routine is critical in creating a clean slate for all products to come. While pilling is, for the most part, a polymer interaction, texture from dirt or dead skin cells sitting on top of the skin can cause problems of their own. Dry skin, dead skin cells, and flaking skin can prevent sunscreen from being absorbed. This is why exfoliating one or two times a week is an excellent way to clear your skin and ensure maximum absorption of skincare products.

Read more about the various types of exfoliants and find out which one is right for you.  

Take A Closer Look At The Products You Use

When trying to avoid pilling, it all comes down to selecting the right products and putting them together. Sometimes this means choosing which product you like better. If there’s a certain serum, moisturizer, or makeup product that you can’t go without, but it interacts with your sunscreen, you may need to look for a sunscreen that doesn’t contain the same gums or polymers. The same goes for if there’s a sunscreen you can’t live without. Unfortunately, there’s not much to do about that gum-on-gum interaction besides rotating through different products and determining which ones are compatible. Like so many things in skincare, learning what works best for your unique skin comes down to trial and error.

Seek Out Trusted Brands With Rigorous Testing Procedures

I’ve been the head of product development for my skincare line for over 27 years, and this has really taught me that following proper product testing procedures is key to ensuring a good user experience. 

For example, I just recently began testing a new moisturizer for my line. One thing I always look at when formulating skincare products is to see how they react with other products. In this case, that means testing this moisturizer with every single serum in my line so that when it’s all said and done, I can confidently say all of our products work together without the risk of pilling. Lo and behold, I did run into a pilling problem with one of our serums, and guess what—I had to go back to rework the formula. Now this is all totally normal but essential for providing a product that not only does what it says it’s going to do but also provides a great user experience (and definitely no pilling!). 

While I can never be sure how a product will react with another outside of my line, it’s my mission to do as much as humanly possible in terms of testing formulas, ingredients, different viscosities, and anything else necessary to ensure a good interaction.

So, Why Not Formulate Sunscreen Without Gums and Polymers?

Simply put, gums, elastomers, and different polymers are critical to helping boost the SPF value of a product. They ensure that the protective film forms properly on the skin and disperses the UV filters evenly, providing the best SPF value and the best sun protection possible. If formulators didn’t use these ingredients, it would be extremely difficult to develop high-performing sunscreens that meet (and maintain) SPF standards on the skin.

At the end of the day, these sunscreens are very nice, stable products that just so happen to interact with another nice, stable product. Unfortunately, this is just something that has to be navigated by selecting products that work together.

Three Common Misconceptions About Sunscreen Pilling

Myth #1: Application Techniques Can Prevent Pilling

Unfortunately, this is not the case. From a physical aspect, there’s little that can be done since you’re laying one film down on your skin and then laying another film over it. Once these layers are completely dry, pilling begins. Ultimately, it’s a chemical reaction and no technique will make a difference. 

However, I always recommend layering your products from thinnest to thickest to ensure absorption of products and longer-lasting hydration.

Myth #2: Your Skin Type Affects Pilling

Nope! As I mentioned, this just happens to be a phenomenon that happens due to a chemical reaction—not your skin type.

Myth #3: The Amount Of Sunscreen Applied Affects Pilling

While it may affect the amount of pilling, using anything other than the recommended amount of sunscreen is never a good idea. Yes, applying less sunscreen may reduce pilling, but this limits its efficacy and protection, and likely means you’re not getting the advertised SPF. And vice versa, if your sunscreen is experiencing an interaction with other products, adding more could just make it worse. After all, if your products are causing an interaction, the more of them you use, the more you will pill. 

Read more about how to apply sunscreen properly.

Finding the perfect combination of products can be a journey, but I hope this helps you navigate it a bit better. By taking the time to experiment and identify a solution to your pilling problems, you’re not only saving money but also providing your skin the best form of protection against UV rays.

Next up, find out which 5 skincare mistakes could be making your makeup less effective.

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!

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

by Caitlin H,

Apr 17, 2023

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

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

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

10 Fun Fitness Ideas to Make Exercise Enjoyable

by Caitlin H,

Apr 10, 2023

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

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

The Benefits of Staying Hydrated and How Much Water to Drink

by Caitlin H,

Apr 3, 2023

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

So, how much water should you drink each day? 

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

5 Weight Loss Tips That Fit Into Your Hectic Schedule

by Caitlin H,

Mar 27, 2023

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

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

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

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

7 Scientific Reasons You Should Try Meatless Monday

by Caitlin H,

Mar 20, 2023

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

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

Reverse Your Prediabetes With These 5 Tips

by Caitlin H,

Mar 13, 2023

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

Simple Ways to Tell if Your Food is Nutritious

by Caitlin H,

Mar 6, 2023

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

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

8 Essential Elements for a Healthier Heart

by Caitlin H,

Feb 27, 2023

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

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

Break That Snacking Habit with These Expert Tips

by Caitlin H,

Feb 20, 2023

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

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

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

10 Delicious, Healthy Dinners to Wow Your Sweetheart

by Caitlin H,

Feb 14, 2023

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

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

The Best Guacamole Recipe: Simple & Authentic In 10 Minutes

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For centuries, herbs and spices have been revered for their medicinal, culinary and aromatic properties. They add flavor to your favorite dish, garnish chic cocktails and are essential ingredients in many over-the-counter medications.

When it comes to skin care, these healing herbs and spices also serve a powerful purpose – adding scent, function and restorative elements to many beauty products you use daily.

Since herbs and spices are such an important part of day-to-day life in both health and beauty, we’ve picked a few varieties to explore in greater detail.

Yellow Sweet Clover | Lavender | Chamomile | Echinacea | Comfrey | Thyme | Peppermint | Rosemary | Turmeric | Cinnamon | Paprika | Ginger

Yellow Sweet Clover

Yellow sweet clover was used by Henry VIII, which led to the common name “King’s Clover.” The Tudor farmers hated this herb because it overran pasturelands and ruined crops. However, there’s a reason the king was so attached to this fragrant herb; it has been used topically to relieve inflammation, ulcers, wounds and rheumatism throughout history.

Yellow sweet clover is the star ingredient in our Yellow Sweet Clover Anti-Redness Masque. Along with stone crop, this herb reduces the appearance of red, dry skin, leaving your complexion radiant, youthful-looking and even in skin tone. Thanks to jojoba oil and calendula, the mask also reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Lavender 

There’s a reason you can find lavender in various teas and night care products. According to Elisa Kosonen, Best Health Magazine, “the oil in its pretty flowers gives the herb a fragrant scent that provides a calming, soothing and sedative effect.” In addition to its relaxing, sleep-inducing characteristics, lavender also has natural antiseptic properties, plus it assists in stimulating circulation to support your body’s natural healing functions.

Add this aromatic herb to your nightly ritual with our Lavender Age Corrective Night Concentrate and our Lavender Night Eye Cream. The lavender in both of these products softens the look of the skin by replenishing moisture.

Chamomile 

Lavender isn’t the only popular herb that will help you ease into a comfortable state of calm — chamomile is another go-to if you want to relax. In addition to its calming properties, chamomile has regenerative and soothing qualities, making this daisy-like herb an extremely effective skin care ingredient.

Featured chamomile products include Herbal Eye Makeup Remover, our Soothing Chamomile Tonique and our Calm Skin products.

One reviewer, Tracie K., said this about the Soothing Chamomile Tonique: “A lovely soothing toner! I bought this Chamomile [Tonique] to use after the Yam & Pumpkin Enzyme Peel. I also often spray it over the top of the Sun Defense Minerals. Its lovely soothing scent is a welcome little spritz any time of day!”

Echinacea 

Most commonly known as a favorite cold and flu remedy, echinacea has several other benefits that are worth taking advantage of. According to Best Health, “many studies support echinacea as an aid to enhance the immune system, reduce inflammation and provide antiviral benefits. It’s also particularly useful for lessening the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, sore throats and congestion.” 

This floral healing herb also protects against drying environmental stressors and works as a powerful ingredient in skin care. We recommend our Echinacea Recovery Cream with certified Biodynamic® ingredients, from our Beyond Organic collection. A smooth cream containing echinacea, yarrow and evening primrose oil, it helps prevent the appearance of problem skin, along with fine lines and wrinkles.

Comfrey

The root and leaves of the comfrey plant have been used in traditional medicine in many parts of the world. In Japan, the plant has been harvested and used as a traditional treatment for over 2,000 years. If you have dry, ravaged skin on your lips, our Rosehip & Lemongrass Lip Balm SPF 15 contains comfrey and was named “Winner of Best Organic Lip Balm with SPF” thanks to Women’s Health Editor’s Choice Awards in 2019. This lip balm is also infused with organic ingredients like rosehip oil, extra virgin olive oil and lavender to moisturize and protect dry lips from harsh climates.

Thyme

Thyme is more than a delicious food seasoning. This herb has antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is commonly used as a preservative in foods, cosmetics and toiletries. According to Healthline, thyme fights pimples better than many popular anti-acne products, as supported by a U.K. study.

Peppermint

Thanks to its cooling and refreshing scent, peppermint is an antioxidant that relaxes the mind, body and skin. The mint family, including peppermint, is one of the oldest medicinal herbs in European, Chinese and Japanese folk medicine. If you’re after a stress-relieving aromatic product, the Vanilla Mint Hand Cream and Tea Tree & Mint Hand Cleanser contain peppermint and aloe to improve the skin. Along with tea tree oil and calming chamomile, the ingredients in these moisturizing products help balance the appearance of your skin.

Rosemary

Rosemary is another must-have herb for your health and well-being. From easing digestive issues to lowering blood pressure, this nettle-like herb is a powerful restorer. It also holds anti-inflammatory and natural astringent properties that help keep skin looking youthful by eliminating free radical damage thanks to antioxidants. 

Our Chamomile Cleanser gently remove impurities with the help of chamomile, arnica and rosemary. This calming and rejuvenating cream cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin that is prone to redness.

Turmeric

In recent years, turmeric has grown in popularity in health and beauty. From delicious dishes to buzzy golden milk and even moisturizers, turmeric is added to a number of items to enhance the benefits for both health and skin.

Coming from the ginger family, turmeric has been used in Asian and Indian cultures for centuries, specifically in medicine and Ayurvedic practices. A spice with a golden-orange hue, turmeric is featured in a number of dishes ranging from curry to stews and beverages. The compound responsible for its health-enhancing benefits is known as curcumin, which contains ample levels of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Curcumin is also rich in phytonutrients and provides added protection to cells by neutralizing damage caused by environmental stressors and free radicals. Applying turmeric topically has been shown to reduce the appearance of dark circles and undereye bags, thanks in part to its brightening properties.

Eminence Organics International Educator Brian Goodwin tells us “these properties lead to an inhibition of tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for hyperpigmentation, thus brightening any discoloration caused by exposure to the sun and pollution and fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation left behind by acne.”

Incorporate turmeric into your skin care routine with Turmeric Energizing Treatment. Starting as a gentle exfoliating powder, a few drops of water transform the treatment into a warming and mousse-like turmeric face mask, leaving skin soft and brightened after each use.  

Cinnamon

Spicy and warming cinnamon is another ingredient used for thousands of years in medicine and cooking practices. Sourced from the Cinnamomum genus of tree species, the inner bark is primarily used to create the spice, but fruit, leaves and tree roots are also used.

While cinnamon is found in a number of regions, the two most traditional forms are the Ceylon cinnamon (which is considered the “true” cinnamon and hails from Sri Lanka), with Cassia cinnamon (grown in southeast Asia) being the most prominently available in North America.

Aside from use as a cooking spice, cinnamon is often ingested in supplement form to manage blood sugar levels and gastrointestinal issues. As for skin care, there are plenty of benefits too.

Brian shares: “When cinnamon-containing products are applied to the skin, a warming, stimulating sensation occurs and is attributed to a naturally occurring chemical in cinnamon called cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde and another chemical called cinnamic acid also provide potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making cinnamon a phenomenal ingredient to resolve acne and breakouts.”

A skin care product containing the cinnamon ingredient can make your skin feel warm and rejuvenated. Use the Hungarian Herbal Mud Treatment weekly to revitalize your skin’s appearance.

Paprika

Much like cinnamon, paprika is another spice used in health and skin care. Though it might sound like a novel idea to some, applying paprika to the skin has actually been done for hundreds of years.

Made using ground, dried red peppers (Capsicum annuum), paprika is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For centuries, paprika has been a staple in dishes worldwide thanks partly to its nutrient-rich profile: high in vitamin A, beta carotene and lutein. These antioxidants work to fight against free radicals and are thought to promote eye health, reduce inflammation and protect against cancer with the help of carotenoids and capsaicin.   

Brian shares: “Paprika is also a great source of carotenoid beta carotene, which can help prevent and treat common signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.”

Similar to cinnamon, paprika is recommended for those trying to manage problem skin. With the properties of both cinnamon and paprika, Hungarian Herbal Mud helps reduce excess sebum, clears pores and revitalizes the look of the skin.

Ginger

Ginger, known as the root of the ginger tree, benefits both skin health and overall well-being. Native to countries such as India, Japan and China, the use of ginger in medicine can be traced back thousands of years. Used to treat various digestive ailments (nausea, most commonly), ginger is also packed with antioxidants to fight against free radicals. With over 400 compounds in ginger, this ingredient provides anti-inflammatory properties both internally and externally.

For skin care, ginger is a rejuvenating ingredient. Goodwin says, “ginger-based skin care can truly benefit all skin types. For clients looking to target dry and aging skin, ginger can improve elasticity and tone to reveal brighter and more luminous skin. In contrast, those struggling with acne or oily skin can benefit from ginger’s toning and tightening properties. Incorporating this ingredient into a daily routine is a surefire way to experience glowing, healthy and radiant skin.”

Healthy skin is a reflection of what you feed your body from the inside. Healing herbs and spices are just a few of the many natural ingredients that you can incorporate into your diet (and skin care routine) for a healthy body and beautiful skin.

Would you like to try adding some of these natural ingredients into your skin care? Book a treatment with your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner and see which products they suggest for you.

This article was originally published in March 2015.