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Category: Beauty

Best Of Natural Beauty Awards: See The Winners!

Wellness isn’t just an inside job—what we put on the outside of our bodies matters just as much. That’s why we created our first-ever Best of Natural Beauty Awards! We asked you to vote on the natural products you can’t live without—and the votes are in. Check out the winners:

Best Facial Moisturizer

Winner: Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Hydration Face Lotion

Made with coconut oil, coconut milk, and other skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, aloe, and green tea extract, the 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Hydration Face Lotion from Shea Moisture promises to soften and restore skin. It’s a luxurious but light daily staple for a nourished, hydrated complexion. Plus, it doesn’t leave even the slightest of greasy residues.

Best Facial Serum

Winner: The Vitamin Shoppe® brand Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Serum

This simple serum moisturizes, rejuvenates, and restores skin. And, at just $5.94 a bottle, it does so for much cheaper than its competitors. Two pumps after cleansing and before applying creams works hydration magic.

Best Shampoo

Winner: Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen, Grow & Restore Shampoo

This clarifying, sulfate-free shampoo gently removes product buildup while moisturizing hair, leaving it soft and shiny. Made with natural ingredients like Jamaican black castor oil and apple cider vinegar, it’s gentle enough for daily use. It’s also suitable for processed, color-treated, or heat-styled hair.

Best Conditioner

Winner: Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner

Damaged, dry, or over-processed hair will soak up this sulfate-free conditioner. Made with natural and certified organic ingredients like shea butter, sea kelp, and argan oil, it moisturizes, repairs, and restores.

Best Body wash

Winner: Dr. Bronner 18-in-1 Hemp Peppermint Pure Castile Soap

Dr. Bronner’s products are famous for using fair trade ingredients and organic oils—and no detergents! This soap features organic coconut oil, organic olive oil, organic hemp oil, organic jojoba oil, and organic peppermint oil. Perfect for gentle cleansing.

Best Body Lotion

Winner: Nubian Heritage Raw Shea Butter Body Lotion

This luxurious lotion from Nubian Heritage stars unrefined shea butter for fast-absorbing, non-greasy moisture. It’s also infused with vitamins E and B5, jojoba oil, cocoa butter, and macadamia seed oil. Plus, frankincense, myrrh, cardamom, ginger and black pepper add an aromatic element that also supports nourished, supple skin.

Best Men’s Bar

Winner: Shea Moisture Three Butters Utility Soap Cleansing Bar

This men’s bar does it all! Made with shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter, and avocado, it’s ultra-moisturizing, and excellent for dry, chapped, irritated skin. Great for everyday cleansing and shaving, too.

Best Essential Oil

Winner: Aura Cacia Lavender Essential Oil

Known for its calming properties, lavender essential oil makes the perfect addition to a bedtime bubble bath or nightly massage oil or moisturizer. Aura Cacia’s lavender oil is 100 percent pure.

Best Collagen Supplement

Winner: Reserveage Nutrition Collagen Replenish Powder

Reserveage’s Collagen Replenish powder features three all-star skin ingredients: collagen peptides, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. Together, these nutrients support skin elasticity and firmness, while protecting it from oxidative stress and promoting hydration.

Related: I Drank Collagen for 30 Days—Here’s How It Turned Out

It mixes clear and is easy to add to water, juice, or any other beverage.

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

The Editors of What's Good

6 Foods That Could Be Behind Your Breakouts

They say ‘we are what we eat’—because it’s 100 percent true. The foods we consume have a significant effect on all of our organs, none more obvious than that on our skin. Here’s what experts have to say about the nutrition-skin connection and how our diet can cause (or help fight) breakouts.

How Food Affects Your Skin

“The nutrition from food travels through the bloodstream to every part of the body, including our skin,” says Maral Skelsey, M.D., Director of Dermatologic Surgery at Georgetown University. Eat the right things (think antioxidants, vitamin E, and vitamin A), and that food can help reduce damage in your skin and even ward off wrinkles.

The flipside is also true, however. Eat the wrong ingredients and you can set your skin up for blemishes, breakouts, and acne. “When we eat foods that contain a combination of increased inflammatory markers and antibody complexes, those antibodies can get trapped in the skin and trigger these reactions,” says Jason Way, N.D., a naturopathic doctor with NexGen Natural Medicine.

Skin-Sabotaging Foods

If you’re dealing with persistent, otherwise inexplicable skin issues, the foods on your plate could be to blame. Below are six of the most common culprits.

1. Dairy

The internet likes the blame dairy for, well, pretty much everything, but numerous studies do show a strong correlation between dairy consumption and acne outbreaks, says Way. “Dairy contains compounds that stimulate the release of a hormone called insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), he explains. “This leads to higher testosterone levels and inhibits cell turnover in sebaceous glands, which secrete oil into the skin.”

These factors create an environment prime for acne, explains Vivian Bucay, M.D., founder and president at Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics and member of the Women’s Dermatologic Society. Higher levels of androgens (male sex hormones) like testosterone are linked to excess oil production in the skin. When bacteria in the skin break down that oil, they release free fatty acids. These compounds increase inflammation that contributes to breakouts.

2. Refined Carbs

Refined carbs (like white bread, white flour, and white rice) have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients. They cause your body to produce a lot of insulin, another hormone that can overly-activate the sebaceous glands on the surface of skin and contribute to acne.

Plus, “refined carbs also disrupt the healthy bacteria in your intestines that keep the bad things out of the bloodstream,” says Way. Over time, this gut damage can allow partially-undigested foods and other compounds to be absorbed into the blood stream. This triggers an immune reaction (a.k.a. inflammation) that can impact you on a body-wide level—including your skin.

3. Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Unlike anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and flaxseed, omega-6 fatty acids have been linked to increased incidence of acne, says Skelsey. Omega-6s are found in meat, eggs, and (most notably) vegetable oils.

Related: You’re Probably Not Getting Enough Omega-3s

“Evidence suggests that acne is less common in diets high in omega-3 fats than diets high in omega-6 and saturated fats,” she says. The inflammatory nature of omega-6 fats can make skin cells less stable, allowing for more breakouts and blemishes.

4. Soy

The culprits behind soy’s potential impact on our complexions: phytoestrogens. These compounds behave very similarly to the hormone estrogen we produce naturally in the body.

“Phytoestrogens affect the level of estrogen in our bodies and replace our own estrogen at cell receptors,” explains Bucay. “This disrupts the body’s hormonal balance.” The result: decreased estrogen production and increased male sex hormone production. As you now know, increased testosterone production triggers oil production, which can then spur acne.

Plus, increased consumption of phytoestrogens can overwork the liver, which bears the responsibility of metabolizing hormones like estrogen. Should excess estrogen-like compounds tax the liver beyond its abilities, the hormones begin to build up in our blood stream and can contribute to clogged skin and breakouts.

5. Sugary Foods And Drinks

No surprise here: Like refined carbs, sugary foods and drinks cause major spikes in blood sugar. “High sugar intake stimulates insulin production, triggering the release of a series of hormones that can cause excess oil production in skin glands,” says Skelsey. Also like refined carbs, sugary foods mess with your gut microbiome.

Related: 8 Foods That Pack A Surprising Amount Of Sugar

The inflammation caused by sugar can lead to “redness and flushing, damage the collagen that keeps skin firm, and contribute to dehydration, all of which result in dry, lackluster skin,” says Bucay.

The sweet stuff (especially fructose) is also very disruptive to your liver and can affect its ability to break down excess hormones, a function with big implications for your complexion, says Way.

6. Alcohol

While alcohol itself doesn’t directly cause acne, its effect on many organ systems (like, you guessed it, the liver), can contribute to chemical or hormonal imbalances associated with acne, says Skelsey.

Wine, beer, and cocktails wreak the havoc of both alcohol and sugar on your body and are especially unfriendly to your face.

Reclaim Your Skin From Breakouts

If you suspect your blemishes, breakouts, and acne are diet-derived, try limiting the above potential offenders. Way recommends an elimination diet, in which you completely pull out all common skin-sabotaging foods until your complexion clears up. Then, you’ll reintroduce the foods one by one to see what you can tolerate.

In addition to cutting out the bad guys, make sure your daily diet also incorporates foods that boast skin benefits. “Foods containing vitamins A and E, zinc, and antioxidants (like vitamin C) seem to promote healthy skin,” says Skelsey. For vitamin A, try sweet potatoes and kale. For vitamin E, try nuts and seeds. And for zinc, turn to beans and whole grains. Finally, for antioxidants, load up on vitamin C-rich fruits like citrus, papaya, and tomatoes.

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Fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), which are full of omega-3s, and cruciferous veggies (like broccoli), which help break down and balance excess hormones, also support a clear complexion, says Way.

If problems persist despite your skin-friendly diet, make an appointment with your derm. Your skin issues may run deeper than your diet.

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

Ashley Mateo

I Tried Coconut Oil For 9 Different Health And Beauty Uses—Here’s What Happened

Ever since doing my first Whole30 three years ago, coconut oil has become a permanent fixture in my pantry. Because the versatile oil has a high smoke point, I can whip up homemade sweet potato fries at home without setting off the fire alarm. Plus, its pleasant scent compliments everything from eggs to zucchini noodles. Until recently, though, I had never thought about using it as part of my beauty routine.

Coconut Oil Benefits

When it comes to body and beauty, one of coconut oil’s biggest claims to fame is the fact that it’s super-moisturizing. It’s rich in fatty acids like lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid, and because of its chemical makeup, gets absorbed by hair much easier than other oils. It’s also packed with the antioxidant vitamin E.

Plus, honestly, who doesn’t want to smell like a tropical island?

Putting Coconut Oil To The Test

I spent a few weeks testing out the many body-care and beauty uses for coconut oil. Here’s what dazzled me—and a few that fell flat.

1. Coconut Oil Pulling = Awkward

In the ancient technique of oil pulling, you swish a teaspoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes first thing in the morning to improve your breath, promote oral health, and draw out toxins. (There aren’t a lot of studies to back this up, but man is it popular.)

At first, the coconut oil was delicious. Minutes later, it wasn’t. I’m no quitter, but I’ve gotta be honest: I didn’t make it past minute seven of swishing.

After throwing in the towel and spitting out the oil, my mouth still felt, well, kind of oily. I did a breath check to see if I could smell any difference, and didn’t notice anything good or bad, which I guess I’d count as a win?

Related: I Tried Oil Pulling For Two Weeks—Here’s What It’s Like

Ultimately, oil pulling felt like a lot of effort for not much reward, so I think I’ll stick with traditional mouthwash.

2. Coconut Oil Is Way Better Than Shaving Cream

An early adopter of those razors with the built-in shaving cream, I’d never thought twice about my convenient routine—until I tried using coconut oil as shaving cream instead.

Granted, applying the coconut oil added another step to the process (and made my shower super-slippery), but there was no denying that I not only got a closer shave, but sported silkier legs than usual, too.

I’ll still turn to my built-in shaving cream razors when in a rush or feeling lazy, but I’ll definitely whip out my jar of coconut oil when I want a quality shave.

3. Deep Condition With Coconut Oil At Your Own Risk

My hair is on the thinner side, slightly wavy, and a little oily, so I was hesitant to use coconut oil as a deep conditioning treatment. Trendy as it is, I figured it would be too much for my hair to handle. And my fears turned out to be warranted.

After showering one night, I rubbed a tablespoon of oil into my scalp and through the ends of my hair, put on a shower cap, and went to bed so the oil could condition my hair overnight. The next morning, no matter how many times I shampooed, I just couldn’t get all of the oil out! My hair looked noticeably greasy, and felt heavy and weighed-down. It took a few days-worth of showers to get it back to normal.

The ends of my hair ultimately did feel softer and more moisturized, though! In retrospect, I’d skip the scalp portion of the coconut oil conditioning and just add a little bit to my dry ends.

4. Coconut Oil Is A Worthy Makeup Remover

The makeup remover I swear by is oil-based and unreasonably expensive—around $28 for a bottle. So when I saw that coconut oil can be used to remove makeup, I was pretty excited to give it a try.

After dabbing a little bit of coconut oil on the end of a cotton swab, I swiped it across my liquid-lined eyelids, and the entire layer of jet black came right off!

Not to mention, my skin felt moisturized and the coconut oil made my lashes look more conditioned. I’ll definitely keep using this one!

5. Coconut Oil Is A Power-Moisturizer For The Body 

Admittedly, I’m guilty of moisturizing my body with whatever drugstore brand product happens to be on sale. Not surprisingly, my lack of discrimination doesn’t always play out effectively.

Knowing how intensely moisturizing coconut oil is, I decided to capitalize on its potential benefits for my neglected skin. After showering one morning, I rubbed a dime-sized amount all over my arms and legs—and I could really feel the difference! My skin (especially my elbows, which are usually extra dry) felt super-hydrated. (Though my skin did feel a little oily for the first few hours.)

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Given my moisturizing habits, I don’t expect to oil myself up every day. But since moisturizing with coconut oil even just once made my skin feel so luscious, I’ll probably make it a once-a-week thing.

6. Coconut Oil Couldn’t Save A Broken Makeup Palette

A friend of mine had recently broken one of her favorite makeup palettes (a matte-pressed face powder), so after reading that coconut oil could remedy the shattered powder and basically glue it back together, I decided to play surgeon.

I dripped a quarter-sized amount of coconut oil into the broken palette and slowly mashed the pieces of pressed powder into the oil until an even mixture formed. I think I used too much oil for how much powder was left in the compact, though, because the end result looked incredible wet.

If I had used just a little bit less, it might have worked, so I’ll give it another shot if ever needed.

7. Coconut Oil Makes For A Heavenly-Scented Body Scrub

DIY beauty bloggers all seem to rave about simple exfoliating body scrubs made from equal parts coconut oil and granulated sugar. Given that my go-to store-bought scrub clocks in at around $30, I was eager to try a homemade alternative.

Since I didn’t have any granulated sugar, I used sea salt as a substitute—and it worked incredibly well. The scrub was effective but not too harsh, and the coconut oil left my skin super-moisturized. It looked head-to-toe smoother and healthier (not to mention I smelled delicious). I’ll definitely be making batches of this to save some cash!

8. Coconut Oil: An A+ Brow Enhancer

I’ve never had unruly brows or invested in one of those pricey brow wands, but I do get the occasional stray and love the bold brows so many women are rocking right now.

I read that coconut oil could come in handy in the brow department, too, so I applied a dab of it to the end of a cotton swab and smoothed it over my brows before heading out for the day. Not only were they free from fly-aways, but they stayed perfectly shaped all day long!

9. Lip Balm Has Nothin’ On Coconut Oil

My last beauty experiment was to swap coconut oil in for my usual lip balm (SUGAR by Fresh). After rubbing it on just about every other part of my body, I had a feeling I’d like how coconut oil felt as a lip balm—and I was right! My lips felt instantly moisturized and the oil tasted great. My only qualm: It’s much easier to carry a tube of lip balm around than a giant jar of coconut oil…

The Final Results

After using it pretty much everywhere on my body, I can confirm that coconut oil is just as versatile and hydrating as people make it out to be. I’ll definitely continue using it in a few parts of my routine:

  • makeup remover (a major money-saver)
  • weekly deep moisturizer (a win for lazy girls)
  • body scrub (another way to save cash)
  • shaving cream substitute (on special occasions!)

While I wasn’t a fan of oil pulling or deep conditioning with coconut oil, I’d still definitely recommend giving them a try before writing them off—especially if you hate the burn of conventional mouthwash or have a different hair texture than I do.

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

Danielle Page

Review: I Tried Mineral Fusion’s All-Natural Makeup

I don’t like applying beauty products that aren’t primarily made with natural ingredients. I have fairly sensitive skin, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve had issues—like skin allergies and pimples—from using certain makeup brands.

That’s why I was so happy when The Vitamin Shoppe Wellness Testers program sent me the Mineral Fusion Waterproof Mascara in Cocoa, Mineral Fusion 3-in-1 Color Stick in Rosette, and Mineral Fusion Lipstick in Alluring.

I’m someone who enjoys wearing makeup, so finding brands that don’t cause me to break out or feel like I’m covered in chemicals has always been a challenge. I hadn’t used this particular brand before, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked it. I was hoping it would go on easily, look pretty, and not cause skin irritation, and after using the product for about a week, I definitely noticed its benefits.

Mineral Fusion Lipstick

I tend to prefer subtle touches of color, especially for work, and Mineral Fusion’s Alluring lipstick was exactly what I wanted: a blush-like lip-color without aluminum. The texture is creamy and thin, which I very much prefer because it’s not cakey and doesn’t feel like I actually have lipstick on. Plus, it’s moisturizing.

Mineral Fusion Waterproof Mascara

The Mineral Fusion Waterproof Mascara was easy enough to apply, and it didn’t clump at all. It also separated my lashes in a way that looked natural and not overdone. I did have to apply a good few coats to achieve the curl and length I wanted, but I loved how the mascara didn’t cause my lashes to get brittle or spider-like.

Mineral Fusion 3-in-1 Color Stick

I loved the Mineral Fusions 3-in-1 Color Stick in Rosette, as it was really flattering and soft looking. It was easy to smooth on and exceptionally creamy, which creates a dewy look.

I usually can’t use blush because I break out super-easily, but this product didn’t clog my pores at all or have any adverse reactions. The Rosette color worked really well for my skin tone, and didn’t look too kitschy or harsh, as many blushes often do.

Verdict

I will definitely continue to use the lipstick and mascara, because I found the color and application easy and pleasant to use. Also, because the products are more natural and high-quality, I would recommend the brand to my friends. I believe it’s important to advocate for and use products that are good for us. Mineral Fusion will definitely be one of my go-tos from now on.

This Wellness Tester received free products in exchange for an honest review.

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Joanna Valente

6 Skin-Rejuvenating Face Masks You Could Also Eat For Breakfast

No doubt we all love a night at home with a good book, candle-lit bath, and luxurious face mask—but the cost of department store beauty can leave us high and dry. The good news: With a little creativity—and a well-stocked kitchen—you can whip up your own similarly effective masks at barely any cost.

Here, beauty experts share the all-natural face mask recipes they rely on to keep their skin clear, healthy, and glowing. Bonus: You can find all of the ingredients in your kitchen!

1. Cooling And Reviving Cucumber-Avocado Mask

 Ingredients:
– 1 cucumber
– 2 Tbsp plain Greek yogurt
– 1 Tbsp avocado

Directions:
1. Slice the cucumber into half-inch-thick rounds and purée in the blender
2. Pour the cucumber purée into a small bowl
3. Mix in the avocado and yogurt
4. Apply the blend to your face and relax for 15 to 20 minutes

Benefits: This mask is full of healthy fats, vitamins and antioxidants, which is why it’s a favorite of professional makeup artist and SkinOwl founder, Annie Tevelin. “Avocados are great for moisturizing your skin while reducing redness and calming flare-ups,” she explains. “Cucumber is not only cooling, but it’s also chock-full of skin-boosting nutrients, including vitamin C and caffeic acid.” Since cucumbers have such high water content, they also help moisturize your skin—plus their peels contain silica, which supports supple, youthful skin. And the Greek yogurt? It contains lactic acid, which can help break down dead skin cells and minimize the appearance of pores.

Related: Whip Up This Turmeric Face Mask For A Complexion Pick-Me-Up

2. Moisturizing Banana And Cucumber Mask

 Ingredients:
– ½ cucumber
– ½ banana, skin on
– 1 Tbsp honey
– 4 Tbsp lemon juice
– ½ tsp extra-virgin olive oil

Directions:
1. Blend the cucumber and banana (skin included) together in a food processor or blender
2. Stir in the honey, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil until you have a smooth consistency
3. Transfer the paste into a small bowl and use your hands to apply an even layer over a clean face and neck, avoiding the eye area
4. Lie down for 30 minutes and let the mask work into your skin
5. Wash off with lukewarm water and pat skin dry with a towel

Benefits: “Banana skin contains high amounts of vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, as well as magnesium and potassium—all fantastic ingredients for promoting clear, glowing skin,” says Tevelin. (Each of these nutrients supports cell function.) While the honey and olive oil act as humectants and keep your skin moisturized, the lemon juice helps exfoliate away dead skin cells and brighten your complexion. Tevelin loves this mask for those with dry but acne-prone skin.

3. Breakout-Banishing Face Mask

 Ingredients:
– 1 tsp raw apple cider vinegar
– 2 tsp green tea
– 5 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp honey

Directions:
1. Brew the green tea and let cool
2. Mix the tea with raw apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and honey
3. Stir until the mixture becomes thick
4. Apply the mixture onto your face and massage gently (skip the massage if acne-prone)
5. Let sit for 10 minutes and rinse skin with warm water

Benefits: This mask is stacked with all-star ingredients. “Apple cider vinegar contains alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate and remove dead skin cells to reveal the healthy and vibrant skin underneath,” explains Tevelin. The brown sugar also helps physically exfoliate the skin, while also locking in moisture. Meanwhile, the green tea offers antioxidants called catechins, which fight free radicals, and honey soothes skin. Tevelin recommends using this one once a week to support a clear complexion.

4. Exfoliating Brown Sugar Mask

 Ingredients:
– ¼ cup honey
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ¼ cup milk
– 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Directions:
1. Place the honey and brown sugar in a small mixing bowl and mix well
2. Mix in the extra-virgin olive oil and then the milk
3. Store in an airtight container in the fridge

Benefits: This calming mask is great for exfoliating sensitive skin, says celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas. The lactic acid from the milk helps resurface the skin, while the olive oil offers a dose of moisture, she says. Massage the mask onto skin using circular motions for a few minutes and then let it sit for an additional 10 before rinsing off.

5. Total Hydration Mask

 Ingredients:
– 2 Tbsp honey
– 2 Tbsp avocado
– 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 mango

Directions:
1. Cut the mango into small cubes and mash in a small bowl
2. Add the avocado, honey, and extra-virgin olive oil and mix well with a fork
3. Apply and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes

Benefits: If you want to hydrate without risking a breakout, honey is the all-natural ingredient for you, says Vargas. “Meanwhile, avocado, with its omega 3-fatty acids and B vitamins, also helps restore the skin’s lipid layer,” she adds. Lastly, mango, which is loaded with vitamin C, brightens the skin.

6. Pigmentation Perfecting Mask

Ingredients:
– 1 red grapefruit
– ½ cup cooked oatmeal
– 1 cup milk

Instructions:
1. Slice the grapefruit in half and scoop the insides into a bowl
2. Mash the grapefruit well
3. Add in the cooked oatmeal and milk and mix well
4. Apply to cleansed skin and leave on for 15 minutes

Benefits: This mask simultaneously soothes and renews. While oatmeal is famous for its soothing properties, milk both soothes and exfoliates, says Vargas. And the grapefruit, of course, is loaded with antioxidants to help renew skin. Try this one if your skin needs some TLC after a night of drinking, or just an overall pick-me-up.

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

Jenn Sinrich

How My Nightly Epsom Salt Baths Make Everything Better

When I first learned about the magical powers of Epsom salt baths, I thought: This is too good to be true. For starters, Epsom salt (also known as magnesium sulfate) relaxes your muscles like nobody’s business.

Because of its many health benefits, I decided to start incorporating Epsom salt into my nightly ritual. I already loved taking long, sudsy baths, but adding Epsom salt to the tub kicked the experience up a whole lotta notches. Bath time became not only relaxing, but purposeful.

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Here’s what regularly soaking in Epsom salt baths does for me.

Chills Me Out

Magnesium tends to be used up when we’re stressed out (leading to all sorts of bad news, like irritability, high blood pressure, and digestive issues), so sitting in a magnesium bath actually helps replenish those stores. I’m not certain of whether a single bath can do the trick, but taking a good 10 minutes before bed each night helps me drift off to sleep in a more peaceful way. The worries and anxieties of the day sort of just vanish. Whether it’s the effect of ritualizing self-care or the magnesium alone (or some combo of both), I have felt so much more relaxed after incorporating this into my routine.

soothes My Aches & Pains

My muscles are often tight, which, like most of us, comes from a combo of hunching over a desk and not getting enough movement in during the day. I’ve also got an autoimmune issue that causes chronic pain in my back and neck. Magnesium is said to relieve muscle and tissue aches, which makes sense because magnesium is found in our bones, muscles, and tissues. Spending  just 10 minutes in a magnesium bath helps me feel more ready for bed—I’m way more limber and the aches and pains sort of fall into the background.

Related: 4 Easy Ways To Use Aromatherapy Blends For Self-Care

Eases my Stomach

I’ve always had digestive issues. They stem from autoimmune issues, as well as a deep love of cheese and carbs. Whenever I have dairy or gluten, I end up bloated, in pain, or constipated. Not a fun time! Short of trying to exercise control over some of my bad eating habits (“I’ll pass on the cheese” is a concept I don’t understand), I take probiotics and sit in my Epsom salt baths.

Some people drink magnesium or take magnesium supplements, but I find a bath to be helpful in helping me stay regular and debloating a puffy belly.

Softens My Skin

Every single time I leave an Epsom bath, my skin feels smooth, exfoliated, and soft. I tend to have pretty rough skin: I probably don’t drink enough water, and swimming in chlorinated water certainly doesn’t help! Thankfully, Epsom salt counterbalances all of those effects. I always apply a bit of coconut oil (Shea Moisture’s Virgin Coconut Oil is my favorite) after the bath to double down on the results.

All in all, making regular time for an Epsom bath has worked wonders for my body and my psyche. I like to know that I’m taking care of myself—and there’s certainly plenty of undeniable benefits to magnesium. Plus, it’s just so easy!

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

Lisa M. Basile

Whip Up This Turmeric Face Mask For A Complexion Pick-Me-Up

If you’re dealing with dark spots—or just need an all-around complexion pick-me-up—chemical peels or a trip to the dermatologist or spa aren’t your only options. This DIY face mask from The Vitamin Shoppe Wellness Council member Sophia Roe is easy to whip up at home, and helps brighten and revive dull skin and minimize hyperpigmentation.

Made with nourishing ingredients like turmeric, rose water, and aloe, it’ll leave you feeling fresh-faced and pampered.

Here’s what you’ll need to mix up this mask:
– 2 Tbsp turmeric powder
– 1 Tbsp raw manuka honey
– 1 1/2 Tbsp pure pearl powder
– 1/4 cup fresh aloe vera
– 1 Tbsp rose water
– 1 Tbsp The Vitamin Shoppe brand rosehip oil

Spread the mask across a clean face, or use as a spot treatment. Let sit for at least 20 minutes (overnight works, too!) before gently removing with water or a wet washcloth.

 

A veritable ball of energy, Sophia Roe is a wildly talented yet relatable holistic chef, wellness expert, empowerment architect, and beauty bandit whose candid videos and posts on health and mindfulness light up social media.

The Editors of What's Good

Summer Skin Woes? This Soothing DIY Gel Can Help

Ah, summer. We’ve waited all year for your sunny days, jacket-free temperatures, beach weekends, and watermelon-filled barbecues. The skin issues, like sunburn, thousands of bug bites, and shorts chafing, though? Not so much.

If you’ve got a fair complexion, ‘sweet’ mosquito-magnet blood, or just all-around sensitive skin, your summer skin-care routine needs to be jam-packed with soothing ingredients. We love this DIY skin-soothing gel recipe for when we’ve spent a little too much time in the sun or gotten eaten alive by bugs in the backyard.

Show your skin some TLC with these three simple ingredients:

– 4 drops chamomile essential oil
– 5 drops lavender essential oil
– 4 Tbsp aloe vera gel

Aloe vera, our go-to summer skin savior, contains vitamin A (which supports cell health and growth), vitamin C (an antioxidant that fights the cell damage involved in aging), and a compound called barbaloin (another antioxidant). Plus, because aloe is made up mostly of water, it helps hydrate your skin, too. Meanwhile, both chamomile and lavender have long been used in schools of traditional medicine for their calming qualities—and they give this gel a lovely scent!

All you have to do is mix your ingredients and store the gel in the refrigerator for an instant cooling, soothing sensation whenever your skin is crying out.

Pin this recipe card to your fridge or bathroom mirror for quick reference all summer long:


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The Editors of What's Good

I Took Collagen ‘Beauty Shots’ For A Month—Here’s What Happened

With my 30th birthday approaching sooner than I’d like, I’ve spent a lot of time recently looking into how to switch up my beauty routine in order to stave off the inevitable wrinkles. I tried Botox about eight months ago, and while I liked how smooth it made my forehead, it’s not exactly the most cost-effective method to keep lines at bay. So when I heard about Reserveage Nutrition’s Watermelon Mint Beauty Shots—antioxidant and collagen protein-packed beauty drinks that can be taken daily to support healthy, youthful skin—I knew I had to give them a, well, shot. I decided to down one every day for a month in hope of more youthful skin on the horizon.

What’s In A ‘Beauty Shot,’ Exactly?

The star of Reserveage’s beauty shots is the ever-trending collagen protein. “Collagen, an essential building block of healthy skin, is the protein matrix that keeps skin firm and strong,” says Bobby Buka, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and contributing founder and chief science officer of First Aid Beauty. “This collagen can become easily damaged as a result of our daily exposure to environmental factors such as sunlight and pollutants.” And when collagen breaks down, you can say hello to wrinkles.

Each beauty shot (three ounces) contains five grams of hydrolyzed collagen, along with a few other skin-loving ingredients like 90 milligrams of vitamin C (which protects against environmental damage that causes aging), 15 milligrams of biotin (the B vitamin that supports strong skin, hair, and nails), and hydrators like hyaluronic acid, cucumber extract, and aloe vera extract. The label references a study that found that 2.5 grams of collagen per day increased skin elasticity after just four weeks, so considering the beauty shots contained twice that amount of collagen, I was optimistic!

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“When we take collagen, it gets broken down into amino acids by our digestive system,” says Monique Chheda, M.D., board-certified dermatologist. “These amino acids are then absorbed through the gut.” Once absorbed, collagen can be utilized throughout our entire body—not just our skin—so there’s no guarantee where it’ll end up, she explains. (Collagen is also important for gut and joint health.) Though more research is needed on collagen’s skin benefits, both docs I spoke with said there certainly wouldn’t be any downsides to getting more of it!

Shots, Anyone?

As a beauty writer, I have access to the best skin-care products (#workperks) and know I have to be very diligent with sunscreen, so my skin started off in pretty good shape. That said, though, I have started to notice itty-bitty lines forming at the corners of my eyes, and that my face looks more tired and dull than it did in my early and mid-20s.

So given how important collagen is for skin health—and how much pollution I’m exposed to living in New York City—I was pumped to add these beauty shots to my daily routine and see whether I’d notice any differences after a month.

Related: Which Type Of Collagen Is Right For You?

I kept the rest of my relatively low-maintenance beauty routine exactly the same so I could measure whether or not the collagen shots were doing anything: I used a gentle facial cleanser morning and night, applied sunscreen in the morning, and continued my usual retinol serum before bed (retinol is the gold standard wrinkle-fighting ingredient). Once a week, I slathered on a brightening face mask.

I’m always in a rush to get to the office on time in the morning, so I stashed my shots in my bag the night before so I wouldn’t forget to take them. Still, I got home from work most days that first week only to find the shot still in my bag—so I had my first few shots for dessert. Once I started taking them out of my bag as soon as I sat down at my desk, though, getting into the routine grew easier. On crazy-busy days, I often didn’t get around to imbibing until the afternoon, so instead of going out for my usual iced hibiscus tea at three o’clock, I made the beauty shots my afternoon treat. (I consider the four bucks a day I saved a major perk of the experiment.) I even packed a few shots with me on a long weekend of traveling for a friend’s wedding, and knocked them back before moving onto more traditional celebratory beverages (a.k.a. actual shots).

I expected the shots’ watermelon mint flavor to be overly sweet and artificial (when I hear anything is watermelon-flavored, I automatically assume it’s going to taste like a Jolly Rancher), but it was really delicious! Nice and subtle with no weird aftertaste. And despite all of the ingredients in there, the shots went down like water. I worried they’d be goopy or chalky, but they had a thin, pleasant texture. I came to really enjoy drinking my shot every afternoon, and was sad when my 30 days were up.

My Complexion, A Month Later

After 30 days of dutifully downing my shots, I didn’t notice a change in the wrinkles around my eyes—but I did, however, notice that my complexion looked all-around glowier than usual. Prior to the beauty shot experiment, my entire face had been looking pretty lackluster, but the area underneath my eyes had really been riding struggle bus (which probably has something to do with the fact that I don’t always get a full eight hours of sleep) and I often sported dark circles.

By the time my month-long shot habit came to a close, though, not only did my entire face look brighter, but my under-eye area looked much more, well, alive. I even stopped applying under-eye concealer! Since dullness was something I was looking to address, I was really happy to see that these shots had some effect.

Plus, there was another surprising benefit from taking the shots: My nails suddenly felt harder and stronger. (Chheda told me that research suggests biotin may be helpful for strengthening nails, so I credited the biotin in the shots for the unexpected perk.) I bite my nails and they normally break very easily, but by the end of the 30 days, I realized I hadn’t dealt with a cracked nail since before I started guzzling the shots.

Glowy skin aside, I’d continue drinking the shots just to keep my nails strong year-round!

Want to try Reserveage’s Beauty Shots for yourself? Treat yourself to a six pack or two.

Christina Heiser

Castor Oil Is Making A Comeback—Here Are 4 Health-Boosting Reasons To Use It

If your pantry is already stocked with natural superstar ingredients like apple cider vinegar and coconut oil, there’s another multi-purpose staple that should be on your radar (and on your shelf): castor oil.

Castor oil, which hails from Africa and India, has been used for health and well-being—especially for hair, skin, and digestion—for hundreds of years. The oil contains high concentrations of a hard-to-find fatty acid called ricinoleic acid that experts believe is responsible for many of its benefits, explains Traditional Chinese Medicine specialist Elizabeth Trattner, A.P.

Want to reap the benefits of this ancient oil for yourself? Here are five ways castor oil can do your body good, inside and out.

1. Boosts Lymphatic Function, Detoxification, And Immunity

Our lymphatic system, which consists of a network of hundreds of connected lymph nodes, is responsible for dispersing immune-boosting white blood cells throughout our body and filtering out waste and toxins. But if our lymph nodes don’t drain and transport their lymph fluid properly (which can be caused by high doses of medication, lack of activity, and certain diseases), they can affect our liver’s ability to detoxify our body.

To boost lymphatic function, Trattner recommends applying DIY castor oil packs. Research published in the Journal of Naturopathic Medicine shows that castor oil triggers our body’s production of lymphocytes (a.k.a. white blood cells), and thus can support proper lymphatic drainage and immunity. “I used to use castor oil packs to support my liver through all the asthma medication I was on,” she says. “I would soak old rags in castor oil, wrap them around my midsection over my liver, cover them with towels, plastic wrap them, and apply heat.”

Research suggests castor oil packs need to be applied for two hours, so try wrapping yourself up before your next weekend Netflix session.

2. Supports Regular Toilet Time

Castor oil has long been used to ease constipation, and now researchers know how it works: The oil’s ricinoleic acid binds to certain receptors in the muscles throughout our digestive system and causes them to contract, which helps move waste through and out of our system. (Fun fact: Because of this effect, castor oil was also traditionally used to induce labor!)

If you’ve never taken castor oil before, start with just an eighth of a teaspoon, and gauge how your system reacts, recommends Mariana Daniela Torchia, Ph.D., R.D., M.P.H. Otherwise, take up to half a teaspoon to help you go.

3. Nourishes Skin

Want dewy, soft skin? Consider adding castor oil to your skin-care regimen.

Because it’s made up of fatty acids—especially that ricinoleic acid—castor oil helps to soothe and lock moisture into the skin, explains Trattner. In fact, castor oil is a popular ingredient in tons of cosmetic products already on store shelves—it may even be in a lotion or moisturizer you already use! (It’s typically listed as ‘Ricinus Communis.’)

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Since castor can be allergenic for some people, apply a small amount to the back of your hand to test for any allergic reaction or sensitivities before slathering it all over your body. If you’re good to go, mix a little castor oil into your moisturizer or massage the oil into your skin before bed (rinse off any excess in the morning).

4. Conditions Scalp And Hair

Castor oil can also be used as a natural conditioner, and can bring moisture back into dry locks and nourish your hair follicles. “Castor oil and its benefits for scalp, hair, and eyebrow health have been believed and followed for ages,” Trattner says. In addition to its moisturizing fatty acids, vitamin E also contributes to the oil’s conditioning effects.

Related: I Tested 8 Different Health And Beauty Uses For Apple Cider Vinegar

To use castor oil as a scalp treatment, wet your hair, massage a few teaspoons into your scalp for about two to three minutes, and rinse. To condition your strands, you can either add a few drops of castor oil to your usual conditioner or deep condition by rubbing the oil directly into your hair. If deep conditioning, let the oil work its magic for about 30 minutes and then rinse.

Intrigued? Pin this infographic for future reference!

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

Isadora Baum

All The Ways I Use Castor Oil In My Beauty Routine

Castor oil has been used in beauty and wellness rituals for centuries, particularly in India and across Africa. My mother, who is Romani, has always used castor oil liberally on her skin, from head to toe, and I was lucky to learn her beauty tips.

Castor oil is made by cold-pressing the ricinis communis—or castor—plant. It contains triglycerides (a type of fat), so it’s thick and gooey. Some people find that castor oil, because of its texture, feels a little tacky on the skin. Personally, I’m down with the thickness. If I do want to lighten it up, I’ll combine it with other nourishing oils, like sweet almond, jojoba, or coconut oil, which are less viscous (and add a sweet scent).

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Here are all the ways I use castor oil in my beauty and wellness routine:

For my hair

I’ve noticed that thick, glossy, and hydrated hair is a bit more achievable with a little help from castor oil. Here’s how I pull it off:

Nourishing Scalp Oil Treatment

I massage this warm oil elixir into my scalp to nourish my roots and keep my scalp flake-free and moist:

I warm this mixture briefly on the stove (I don’t boil it—I just warm it up). Next, I massage the warm oil into my scalp, using my fingers to work the oil into the roots, which stimulates blood flow (and supports healthy hair!). I leave this to sit for 20-30 minutes before I rinse it out.

Hydrating Overnight Hair Mask

My hair tends to be thick and dry like a horse’s tail, so overnight hair masks are an integral part of my hair care—keeping it soft, shiny, and voluminous.

Here’s what I use:

I shower, towel dry my hair, warm the mixture on the stove, and then apply it to my hair—from root to ends. I then wrap my hair in a warm towel (or Saran Wrap) and settle into bed. In the morning, I shampoo it out and then use conditioner.

Hair Gloss & Split End Sealer

Even after washing and conditioning, the ends of my hair are often still dry. I don’t cut my hair nearly as often as most folks do—partially due to cultural reasons, and partially due to being cheap!—so I always need a little help with my split ends.

While nothing but a trim can truly get rid of split ends, a few drops of castor oil worked into the ends of my hair will make it appear smooth, shiny, and soft. I also try not to wash my hair more than twice a week, and when I’m in between washes, I’ll add a couple of drops to enhance its shine and softness.

Full Lashes & Brows

Before I was allowed to wear makeup, my mother pacified my desperation by teaching me how to smooth a drop of castor oil into my eyebrows to make them darker, and to carefully cover my lashes with castor oil to make them appear fuller and more defined.

The best part? The oil seems to encourage hair growth, so I actually noticed thicker and longer lashes and fuller brows. These days, I do this treatment at night before bed. On my no-makeup days, I still use the trick to add a natural pop to my eyes.

For my hands and feet

Hands and feet get a lot of wear and tear. This is why I sometimes massage castor oil into my hands and feet as a bedtime ritual.

First I’ll exfoliate with pumice and a good sugar or salt scrub, and then I’ll apply the castor oil. And if I’m really committed, I’ll also wear cotton socks and gloves to trap the moisture. In fact, my mother, who suffers from scleroderma, a painful disease that hardens the organs (including your skin), always goes to bed while wearing castor oil and little white cotton gloves.

Related: All The Ways I Use Tea Tree Oil In My Beauty Routine

For my nails

To keep my nail beds strong and conditioned, I often rub a few drops of castor oil into my bare nails after filing and buffing. The oil softens my cuticles, so I can easily push them back down to encourage nail growth.

For my Skin & face

Facial for Dewy Skin

Everyone’s skin is different, of course, but castor oil never seems to clog my pores. Instead, it leaves my skin smooth and hydrated. Sometimes, at the end of the day, my skin will feel irritated and dry from wearing makeup. When that happens, I pat warm or room-temperature castor oil into my face, neck, and décolletage after cleansing and toning.

Other times, if my skin is feeling very dry or irritated, I’ll leave the oil on all night, waking with smooth and plumped skin in the morning. Oh, and for any spots I might have, I’ve found castor oil especially effective for soothing irritated skin.

Fading Scars & Stretch Marks

I apply castor oil nightly to scars, or to skin that may scar later on. I’ve noticed that the oil keeps scars and stretch marks moisturized, which helps fade their appearance. The scars I do have are definitely less visible after being diligent about this particular beauty practice.

Healthy Lips

I love a good lip mask and treatment, but castor oil is my trusted standby. I smooth a very thin layer of castor oil on my lips before applying lipstick to keep them moisturized (though not necessarily slick). If they feel dry during the day, I sometimes add another drop of castor oil on top of the color, keeping it highly pigmented—with a touch of shine.

Jezmina Von Thiele

The Oil You’ve Never Heard Of That Saved My Face

Anyone who has dry skin knows that managing it can be a never-ending, often painful challenge. The most uncomfortable permutation of my own dry skin is the malar rash I get on my face. A malar rash is also known as a “butterfly rash”—an irritated patch of skin that stretches across the cheeks and over the bridge of the nose.

Two years ago, I had flaky and sore neon-pink triangles on either side of my nose. After a wash, the dead skin would peel off leaving the skin raised and inflamed. This was the kind of enemy that could not be defeated by mere soap and coconut oil. 

Fed up with the affliction, I wanted to finally nail down an effective skin routine that didn’t take hours or leave me feeling raw. My skincare-enthusiast friends expertly assembled an assortment of expensive, high-quality products that promised to fix my face: cleanser, gentle exfoliant, toner, and moisturizer. What could possibly go wrong?

Well, first of all, all those excellent products didn’t work. The rash persisted. Moisturizers failed, making me feel like I was wearing a cling-film mask. And the toner dried out my damaged skin even more.

But everything changed when my friend sent me a bottle of maracuja oil. The contents of the enticing little bottle hadn’t worked for her oily skin type, so when she heard about my skincare struggles, she passed it along.

After just one application, I was hooked.

Maracuja oil comes from the seed of the passionfruit, known to scientists as Passifloraedulis, which is native to tropical and subtropical areas in South America. Products bearing the same name may also come from Passiflora incarnata, more commonly referred to as a passion flower, which is a wild vine that populates the southern United States. Both varieties are packed with nutrients known for promoting skin health, most notably the antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin B, as well as oleic and palmitic fatty acids.

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For optimal results, I rub an approximated silver dollar amount over my hands and massage it into my face. Since I use so much oil, it does take a minute or so to work it in, but my desert-dry face absorbs the moisture like a dehydrated sponge. To finish the job, I like to apply a vitamin E cream on top.

I apply the oil after cleansing in the morning and before going to bed. Using it gives me an extra layer of protection against the elements and keeps my face feeling supple and healthy.

Though my skin sometimes maintains a little redness, the hydration provided by the maracuja oil has helped manage the flaky dryness and keeps the area smooth. I’m also pleased to note that long-term use has not resulted in any pore clogging or increase in pimple activity!

Related: All The Ways I Use Tea Tree Oil In My Beauty Routine

Maracuja isn’t the only oil I use to tame the horsemen of the apocalypse doing their best to wreak havoc on my face. I also love camellia oil as a make-up remover and cleanser. I have experimented with various other oils as a primary staple, but many make me feel greasy, rather than hydrated.

Ultimately, this oil has been a lifesaver. Total game changer. My holy grail skincare product. After implementing it into my routine, I was suddenly taking selfies without a filter and admiring the natural glow my skin developed after regular applications.

Before, using makeup to cover the bright patches on my cheeks was necessary but frustrating, as the texture was visibly unpleasant and removal was always painful. Now, if I do wear concealer or foundation, my face isn’t a disaster zone when it comes time to take it off at the end of the day. I’m like, “Foundation-who?”

Many people I’ve encountered say they avoid maracuja oil because they’re familiar with it only through the super-expensive versions sold by luxury brands. This breaks my heart, considering that you can find affordable versions—like this oil from Shea Terra Organics—without dropping all your cash.

Best of all? I was able to forego the million-step skincare routine so many others before me have endured. Maracuja oil spares my face and my fragile attention span by keeping things neat, clean, and simple.

Jem Zero

All The Ways I Use Tea Tree Oil In My Beauty Routine

One of the greatest things about the beauty world is the diversity of methods, products, and natural ingredients from all over the world—along with the amount of cultural exchange it can foster.

With my family being half Italian and half Romani (a diasporic ethnic group from India, more commonly known by the racial slur “Gypsy”), I was lucky to grow up with a lovely mish-mash of beauty rituals involving oils, flower essences, and sometimes elaborate practices.

In fact, my Romani mama is a former bikini model and aerobics instructor, so she was always looking to improve her beauty routine. In the ‘70s she discovered tea tree oil, and when I was in middle school she introduced me to it, telling me that tea tree oil was the key to clear and healthy skin, hair, nails, and even teeth. I don’t remember her having any blemishes to speak of, so I assumed it either worked well or she was a witch of some kind.

I, on the other hand, did have some blemishes to test on, and got right down to it. And it turns out that she was right! I saw noticeable improvements in my skin, and it has been a fixture in my beauty arsenal ever since.

My mother and I love it, but the science speaks for itself: Studies have found that tea tree oil has cleansing and purifying properties. In fact, people indigenous to Australia have recognized the stuff’s efficacy for a long time.

Here’s how I incorporate tea tree oil into my beauty routine. Tip: Just be sure to test it out on a small patch of skin before you use it!

1. As a cleanse

I tend to get acne if there’s even a trace of makeup left on my face at night. Since I model, I often have a full face of makeup on and get home late at night completely exhausted. I have to fight the urge to just crawl into bed, no matter how wonderful that would feel.

I find that I can get excited about my skincare routine if I’m excited about the products I’m using. This makes my beauty routine feel less like a chore and more like self-care. (FYI: An oil-based cleanser, like Shea Moisture Sensitive Skin Facial Cleansing Oil, does an excellent job of getting off tough to remove makeup.)

After I’ve removed my makeup, it’s time to cleanse with tea tree oil. I turn this into a little bit of a facial massage by rubbing together some warm water and a few drops of tea tree oil along my jawline, nose, and cheekbones. Then, I rinse.

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2. As a mask

I use a tea tree oil-based clay face mask about once a week to draw out any impurities. My mother has been using Aztec Secret Bentonite Healing Indian Clay since the ’70s, and passed the secret on to me.

Like a lot of beauty gurus and bloggers do, I mix a tablespoon of the clay in a bowl with a tablespoon of Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar for clear skin (I love the fizzing sound it makes!), a dollop of royal jelly honey for moisture, and a drop or two of tea tree oil for its added benefits.

I apply the mixture to my face (it will probably tingle a little from the tea tree oil), leave it on for 10-20 minutes, and then remove with water to reveal a glow.

3. As a toner

Some toners can really dry out the skin, making oil production and acne even worse in the long run. Today, I use what my mother prefers: Thayer’s Witch Hazel Alcohol Free Toner. She taught me to swipe it—along with a drop of tea tree oil—over my face after cleansing to remove any remaining residue and to tighten my pores.

4. As a spritz

Spritzing facial mist throughout the day is one of my most beloved beauty discoveries. It keeps me looking fresh and awake. Here’s a spritz recipe I make on my own:

I combine it all in a spray bottle, shake, and spritz my face a couple of times a day when I need a pick-me-up.

Related: 5 DIY Skin Treatments Beauty Experts Swear By

5. As dental care

Tea tree oil can also help support dental health (and it’s got a great fresh scent). I like this Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil and Neem Toothpaste in Wintergreen and their Tea Tree Oil Floss. I follow it all up with a mouthwash like Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Mouthwash Whitening Plus.

I also like to make my own mouthwash with naturally cleansing ingredients.

DIY Mouthwash

6. As hair care

In the winter, I tend to get a dry, flaky scalp and it drives me absolutely crazy. Over the years, I’ve come up with a few different ways to combat it, and tea tree oil’s cleansing properties make it a star ingredient. I simply mix a few drops of tea tree oil into my shampoo or condition and then smooth it through my hair as normal.

7. to support nail health

Due to tea tree oil’s cleansing properties, it can be great for nail health. When my nails are looking a bit yellow or brittle, I add a few drops of tea tree oil to my hand and foot cream and rub into my cuticles and nails.

8. to support beauty sleep 

Aromatherapy always makes me feel a little better. When I’m stressed out, I like to add three drops of lavender oil, two drops of tea tree oil, two drops of eucalyptus oil, and one drop of peppermint oil to my diffuser. I feel like it helps me breathe more deeply, reduce my congestion, and catch up on my beauty sleep.

Jezmina Von Thiele

I Tried A Charcoal Peel-Off Mask—Here’s What My Skin Had To Say

From pimple-popping to drag queen transformations, there’s something inexplicably satisfying about watching the Internet’s unusual assortment of viral beauty videos. But none ignites my fascination—and horror—more than a charcoal peel-off face mask trial. (If you haven’t witnessed YouTuber Tiffany’s disastrous peel-off experience, stop reading this and go watch it now.)

Painful mishaps aside, these black goo-like masks promise to reveal smoother, blackhead-free skin. The charcoal found in peel-off masks is activated charcoal, which has been heated to a very high temperature to make it more porous. The idea is that the pores produced during the process help the activated charcoal absorb extra bacteria and other molecules from your skin. “In a peel-off mask, charcoal can draw out bacteria and dirt from the skin to the surface, so it can then be washed off,” explains Gary Goldenberg, M.D., of Goldenberg Dermatology.

Related: 5 Health And Beauty Uses For Activated Charcoal

I’ve been genetically gifted (*sarcasm*) with an acne- and oil-ridden complexion—and though my acne was much worse during my teen years, I continue to deal with lingering purple-y blue scars, bulging cystic time-of-the-month pimples, and random whiteheads that pop up for no reason at all. And though my current skin-care routine includes a cocktail of creams, toners, and moisturizers, I don’t really do much to remove impurities—I just try to cover and moisturize them. So the notion of quite literally ripping them from my face certainly appealed. Curious (and slightly afraid), I decided to try the trend out for myself and see if it benefited my complexion.

Application #1: My Mask Doesn’t Look (Or Feel) Right

On morning one, I stood at my bathroom mirror before work with a bottle of BioMiracle’s Detoxifying Charcoal Peel-Off Mask in hand, ready to make the pore-purification magic happen. The bottle promised ‘a visibly clearer, smoother, more clarified complexion.’ Yes, please.

I’m a total baby when it comes to pain, so as excited as I was to detox my face, I couldn’t help but think back to the cringe-worthy YouTube videos of painful peel-offs I’d seen. As I started to spread the mask across my freshly-washed face, my heart rate kicked up a bit. With the piercing screams of beauty vloggers ringing in my ears, I continued to cover my face with the thinnest possible layer of the mask.

The directions on the bottle said to apply an ‘even and thin, but opaque’ layer of mask, and as the mask dried I learned that ‘opaque’ was the key word there. Because I applied such a thin layer, the mask just crumbled off in pieces and had no discernible effect on my skin, other than leaving behind a few black specks that I had to rinse off. Fail.

Application #2: This is Surprisingly…Cathartic?

As instructed by the bottle’s directions, I waited a few days to use the mask again—even though I was pretty sure my first attempt didn’t count as an actual application. This time, I made a point to smear myself a nice opaque layer of mask despite my lingering nerves.

As the mask dried, I could tell it was appropriately thick this time; it felt tighter and tighter over my skin—especially when I tried to move my mouth or crinkle my forehead. After 30 minutes (during which I guzzled wine), my phone alarm alerted me it was time to remove the mask. I trudged to the bathroom, took a deep, deep breath, said a prayer, and began to peel away at the edges. This time it came off in (mostly) a single sheet.

The removal process was surprisingly cathartic—somewhere between the sensation of peeling off dried glue (you did that in school, too, right?) and ripping off a Band-Aid. I did experience some minor pain at first—something I attributed to extra hair around the outside of my face—but I could practically feel the mask stripping my pores of blackheads and oil, and it was so, so satisfying.

I analyzed my freshly-peeled complexion in the mirror, noticing a newfound smoothness as I ran my fingers across my oil-free face. Ahhhh. The little redness I noticed faded quickly, but my blackheads still persisted. (The mask also ripped off a whitehead I had, which was bleeding a little bit, so I made note to avoid putting the goop over any sensitive-looking pimples the next time around.)

The Next Few Applications: Instantly Gratifying Complexion Fixes

By the time I reached my third, fourth and fifth applications—about five, nine, and 14 days into my trial—I had perfected proper mask application and consistency. With each application, my confidence grew, and I applied an increasingly thick layer. The thicker the layer, the more painful the peel-off—but I found myself almost enjoying the pain.

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The results continued in a fairly predictable pattern: I’d remove the mask to find a smooth and grease-free complexion. Any redness would subside in the next hour or so.

The Final Verdict

Like most of the buzzy beauty products I’ve tried out, the charcoal peel-off mask seemed to be more of a short-term magician than a long-term miracle-worker. That being said, though, I will absolutely use this mask again—probably the night (or a few hours) before an event, so my skin will be fresh and shine-free when it counts.

Want to test a charcoal peel-off mask for yourself? Try BioMiracle’s Detoxifying Charcoal Peel-Off Mask.

Julia Sullivan

6 Skin Issues Caused By Working Out—And How To Get Rid Of Them

Exercise does our bodies (and minds) a ton of good. But let’s be real: A hardcore sweat session doesn’t always have the greatest effect on our skin. All that sweat means lingering bacteria, which makes breakouts and rashes more likely to pop up—especially if you’re not wearing the right gear.

So what’s a fitness devotee supposed to do? Follow this expert advice for beating the most common workout-related skin issues out there and hopefully you’ll never have to deal with a butt bump—yep, that’s a thing—again.

Skin SOS: Chest And Back Acne

What it looks like: Scattered red and pink bumps of various sizes.

What’s happening: All sorts of culprits can cause body acne, but often it’s a result of oil, sweat, and bacteria getting trapped in the pores, says Elyse Shelger, R.N., area medical lead for the skin-care center Skin Laundry. You’re especially prone to body breakouts if you don’t shower right after you work out. And even if you’re not hanging out in sweaty clothes post-workout, the skin-care products or fabrics you’re wearing, or even your sheets and towels, could be irritating your skin.

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What to do: When you work out, wear materials that are breathable and moisture-wicking (like bamboo, cotton, GORE-TEX, and Spandex), and toss ‘em in the laundry ASAP post-sweat. Then, properly cleanse your skin as soon as possible with a soap or body wash that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide—both of which exfoliate, unclog pores, and fight acne.

Skin SOS: Face Breakouts

What they look like: Surface-level whiteheads, deep blackheads, small red bumps, or deep (and often painful) cystic pimples.

What’s happening: Like with your back and chest, when the pores on your face get clogged with oil, dirt, and bacteria, pink, inflamed bumps or pustules can pop up, says Julia Tzu, M.D., founder and medical director of Wall Street Dermatology.

Related: 4 Possible Reasons Why You’re Still Breaking Out As An Adult

What to do: First thing’s first: “Try not to wear makeup while working out, as the sweat and makeup can remain in your pores and lead to pimples,” says Shelger. Then, “Sanitize your yoga mats, wash any gym or yoga towels, and try not to touch your face after your hands have been in contact with dirty surfaces.” And—no ifs, ands, or buts—wash your face with a noncomedogenic (‘non-pore-clogging’) skin-care product as soon as you’re done working out, says Tzu. Micellar cleansing water or facial wipes can come in handy if you’re in a real time crunch.

Skin SOS: Chafing

What it looks like: Red, irritated skin that can be painful when exposed to the elements (including your shower).

What’s happening: Chafing simply indicates that a sensitive area of your body—usually your underarms, nipples, thighs, or the skin beneath tight sports bra or waist bands—has fallen victim to friction. Whether from your skin rubbing against itself or against irritating clothing, too much friction can lead to redness, bumps, and that awful stinging, says Shelger.

What to do: The best way to deal with chafing is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Before you sweat, apply petroleum jelly or chamois cream to spots that are prone to irritation, and avoid wearing textured clothing. If you do develop chafing, it’s important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent further irritation, Shelger says. Apply petroleum jelly regularly to help speed up the healing process.

Skin SOS: Athlete’s Foot

What it looks like: A dry, scaly rash that’s often accompanied by super-fun symptoms like itching, burning, stinging, and redness.

What’s happening: “Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection,” says Shelger. “Like other fungi, it lives and grows best in damp environments. Wearing damp socks or shoes is the most common cause, but since it’s contagious, it can also be spread by walking barefoot in gyms, locker rooms, showers, and spas.”

What to do: Antifungal creams and powders are your best bet here, says Tzu. You can grab an over-the-counter tube at your local drugstore, but if the rash gets worse, you may need to see a doctor for a prescription-strength treatment. At home, you can also try soaking your feet in diluted vinegar, which creates an acidic environment that wards off bacteria. Fill a foot tub or bucket with one part water and one part vinegar, and soak your feet for up to 10 minutes a day until your skin clears up, she suggests.

To avoid getting the rash in the first place, never share shoes or walk barefoot on mats and floors, and remove sweaty socks as soon as your workout is over so your feet can breathe, suggests Shelger.

Skin SOS: Heat Rash

What it looks like: A red, inflamed rash or tiny pink blisters.

What’s happening: Typically, heat rash happens when heat and humidity block our sweat ducts, causing them to swell, says Shelger. It’s most common in areas where the skin folds (which are harder to keep dry), or where clothing creates friction.

What to do: If you already have those tiny heat rash bumps, all you can really do is keep the area clean to prevent further irritation. “Heat rash is usually self-resolving, requiring no treatment,” Shelger explains. But if you’re dealing with any uncomfortable symptoms—like itchiness, pain, or redness—a topical OTC steroid like cortisone cream may help, says Tzu.

Skin SOS: Butt Bumps

What they look like: Clusters of inflamed bumps on the buttocks that resemble pimples or terrible razor burn. They’re often itchy and can become crusty and sore-like in more serious cases.

What’s happening: Say hello to folliculitis, a.k.a. irritated hair follicles on your booty that are likely wigging out because of sweat, dirt, or bacteria clogging your pores. This can be caused by tight pants that cause friction and prevent your skin from breathing, or hanging out in sweaty workout gear for too long, says Shelger. Your backside is one of the most common spots for folliculitis, but it’s not the only place the bumps can pop up; any spot that’s cut off from oxygen and sitting in sweat and bacteria can fall victim.

What to do: Use a gentle benzoyl peroxide skin cleanser to help banish the bumps, suggests Tzu. Otherwise, make sure you’re wearing loose, 100-percent cotton undies when you work out (or consider going commando), and change out of damp clothes as soon as you’re finished.

Diggin’ What’s Good? For more essential health facts, tips, and inspiration, join our Facebook communities, Eating Healthy and Staying Fit, today!

Samantha Lefave

5 DIY Skin Treatments Beauty Experts Swear By

We all have our go-to skin-care products—you know, the ones we always have stashed in our purses—but sometimes it’s fun (and super-effective) to play beauty chemist and whip up our own natural recipes. That’s why we asked five beauty pros to share their best DIYs; here are their favorite formulas for face masks, soothing spot treatments, and more.

 

1. Hydrating Facial Mist

When you’ve been out in the heat or just worked up a sweat at the gym, spritzing on a facial mist is a great way to calm and cool down your skin. The following recipe—courtesy of Shannon Smyth, founder of the beauty blog A Girl’s Gotta Spa!—contains aloe vera (which research has shown to have moisturizing properties) and a nourishing oil of your choice. (We suggest lavender oil, since studies have found it to be relaxing.)

Ingredients:
95 milliliters spring water
1 Tbsp pure aloe vera gel
5 drops pure lavender essential oil or pure orange essential oil
1 to 4 drops virgin olive oil or coconut oil

Directions: Combine all of the ingredients in a 100-milliliter spray bottle. Choose how much olive or coconut oil you add based on how dry your skin is, and leave it out altogether if you’re very oily. If you have sensitive skin, start out with just a drop of essential oil, since their concentrated potency can be irritating. Once your ingredients are all added, give the bottle a shake and spritz your face a few times whenever you need a pick-me-up. If you’re misting post-workout, just make sure to wash your face (you can use a towelette if you’re in a rush) first to get rid of any dirt and grime. Otherwise, you can spritz yourself whenever—it shouldn’t mess with any makeup you have on.

 

2. Moisturizing Face Mask

One of the sweetest ingredients in your cabinet—honey—has some serious skin-care benefits, with research published in An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda supporting its ability to moisturize and soften skin. Makeup artist and beauty blogger Hillary Kline loves this face mask when she’s feeling dried out.

Ingredients:
2 tsp honey
3 drops rose water

Directions: Mix honey and rose water together to create a thick paste. Apply a thin coat all over your face. Let sit for 15 minutes, rinse off with cold water, and then follow up with moisturizer.

Related: 8 All-Natural Goodies To Make Your Face Glow

 

3. Soothing Spot Treatment

Dry, itchy patches of skin are a downer for anyone—unless you know a way to nix the discomfort. Enter this spot treatment recipe from Eliss Halina, esthetician and owner of Saul’s Beauty Shop in Toronto. The recipe features oatmeal, which a study in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology has shown to effectively soothe dry, itchy skin, and peppermint for instant cooling relief.

Ingredients:
1 cup milk
1 peppermint tea bag
¼ cup plain oats

Directions: Warm a bowl of milk in the microwave until hot, then steep a peppermint tea bag in it. As it steeps, grind your oats in a food processor. Place the ground-up oats in the center of a few layers of cheese cloth and pull the corners together to make a ball. Tie a string around the top of the ball to hold it shut, and place it into the milk. (When your finely-ground oats are placed in the hot liquid, they become ‘colloidal oats,’ the form that has been most widely studied and used in skin-care products.) Once the milk has cooled, dab the cheese cloth onto and itchy, dry patches.

 

4. Skin-Softening Body Scrub

One of the best ways to smooth rough patches of skin is by exfoliating—and body scrubs are quick and easy to whip up with ingredients you have at home. Roberta Perry, founder of ScrubzBody Skin Care Products, shares a simple scrub recipe made with moisturizing coconut oil and exfoliating sugar.

Ingredients:
1 cup white table sugar
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp grapeseed oil
2 Tbsp coconut oil
4 to 6 drops essential oil

Directions: Pour sugar into a bowl and add the oils one at a time. (For a grittier scrub, use one less tablespoon of each oil.) Stir the mixture thoroughly and add your essential oil fragrance a couple drops at a time until you’re happy with the scent’s potency.

 

5. De-Puffing Face Mask

Ever used cucumber slices to relax the skin below your eyes—or at least seen it in a movie? Well, there’s a reason this natural remedy is so popular: Cucumber contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that can soothe skin, says Zondra Wilson, creator and founder of the USDA organic Blu Skin Care. Her de-puffing face mask pairs cucumber with nourishing honey.

Ingredients:
1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
1 tsp honey

Directions: Puree cucumber slices in a food processor and pour into a bowl. Mix the honey in with a spoon. Massage the mask in a circular motion all over your face and lie down on your back with a towel under your head in case the mask drips. After 10 minutes, rinse the mask off with lukewarm water and follow up with your regular moisturizer.

Christina Heiser

6 Possible Reasons Why Your Teeth Are Yellowing

If recent toothpaste commercials prompted you to try the ‘tissue test’ and hold a bright white tissue up against your smile, chances are your suddenly lackluster-looking chompers made you feel self-conscious. After all, most of us aim for pearly whites—especially since research shows someone’s teeth influence our first impressions of them. But before you spend your paycheck on laser or at-home treatments, you should probably figure out what’s yellowing your teeth in the first place—because prevention is much cheaper!

It’s most likely one of these six culprits.

1. Medication Mayhem

That’s right, the very medicine you trust to support your health could actually be standing in between you and whiter teeth.

“Medications such as anti-histamines and anti-hypertensives can leave people with a dry mouth, which leads to staining,” says Mazen Chehab, D.M.D., of Town Center Family Dentistry. (Being on multiple medications at once can also have this effect.) You see, your saliva actually helps protect your teeth from stain-causing bacteria, acids, and leftover food—and without enough, your teeth are left unprotected.

Since giving up medicine isn’t always an option, the Mayo Clinic recommends drinking plenty of water—but not coffee or soft drinks, which also dry out your mouth—and chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.

2. You Are What You Eat (And Drink)

If you’re a connoisseur of tea, coffee, soda, wine, curry, or literally any food or drink that has some color to it (processed foods included), chances are you’re staining your teeth. Even those innocent-looking blueberries in your morning oatmeal can contribute to discoloration!

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No one expects you to give up your nightly glass of Pinot Noir, but you should rinse your mouth out with water after eating or drinking anything particularly pigmented, says Gene A. Sambataro, D.D.S., F.A.G.D., of Julian Center Dentistry. You can also try a whitening activated charcoal toothpaste like My Magic Mud to ward off some inevitable food and drink staining, he says.

Related: I Brushed My Teeth With Charcoal For 2 Weeks—Here’s What Happened

3. Reflux Redux

As if the discomfort of acid reflux isn’t crummy enough, that gurgly acid can also discolor your teeth.

“Acid reflux, bulemia, and even vomiting during pregnancy, lead to acid erosion of the outer white enamel layer of our teeth, exposing the naturally-yellow inner dentin layer,” says Chehab. (Drinking a lot of soda can also have this unfortunate effect.)

Unlike food-, drink-, or dry mouth-related stains, a yellow smile caused by acid erosion is difficult to correct because you can’t bleach the inner layer of your teeth. “Some companies have developed pastes and gels using ingredients like tri-calcium phosphate to try to re-mineralize the white enamel layer, but that’s as close as we can get to ‘reversing’ the process,” Chehab says.

4. Wear and Tear

If you brush with a firm toothbrush, handle with care; all that extra elbow grease in the name of clean, shiny teeth can do more harm than good. In fact, many of our seemingly harmless day-to-day behaviors can contribute to unwanted stains over time. Grinding or clenching your teeth, using abrasive teeth-whitening remedies too often, and brushing too vigorously with a hard-bristled brush can wear down your enamel, revealing more and more of that yellowy inner tooth layer, says Chehab.

Treasure your chompers by brushing gently with a soft toothbrush, seeing your dentist if you clench or grind, and avoiding DIY teeth-whitening treatments that use abrasive ingredients, like baking soda, he recommends.

5. Age Effects

Like it or not, we all get older—and each passing birthday affects the state of our chompers. “As we age, the nerves in our teeth shrink and the teeth become darker,” says Scott Asnis, D.D.S., CEO and founder of dentistry franchise Dental365.

Since we can’t stop the clock, Asnis strongly recommends consistent dental cleanings to help your teeth stand the test of time. “Regular dental visits and professional-strength whitening products can help with yellowing, and your dentist can help you find the care options specifically catered to your needs,” he says.

6. Smoke

Any dentist will tell you that if you smoke, you’re going to end up with stained teeth. In fact, one study found that 81 percent of daily smokers reported having oral health issues within the last six months, with discoloration being their greatest concern (followed by dry mouth).

Do your smile—and overall health—a favor, and avoid nicotine and tobacco. But if the damage is already done, professional teeth whitening can help restore your smile.

Kelly Bryant

10 Products That Can Save Your Flaky Winter Skin

We’re smack dab in the middle of winter—and that means there’s a very good chance your skin has reached the point of no return. We’re talking chapped, irritated, flaky, and dull. Dry winter air—and blasting central heating—seriously sap the moisture from your skin, making it essential that you use ultra-moisturizing products.

Here are 10 skin-care essentials that will soothe winter skin, along with a few expert tips for holding onto dear, dear hydration.

 

1. The Vitamin Shoppe Hyaluronic Acid Booster Serum ($6.29)

One of the best ingredients you can look for in skin-care products during the winter is hyaluronic acid, because it helps the skin retain moisture, says Julia Tzu, M.D., founder and director of Wall Street Dermatology. For an added layer of moisture, slather this hyaluronic acid serum on before applying your moisturizer.

 

2. Kiss My Face Olive & Aloe Ultra Moisturizer ($9.89)

You probably reach for aloe vera in the summer when you’ve gotten a little too much sun, but it can be useful year-round. Research published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that aloe vera’s soothing properties can help with skin irritation. Plus, this moisturizer also features olive oil, another naturally potent moisturizer.

Expert tip: “Always apply moisturizer to damp skin,” says Tzu. “Moisturizers serve not just to hydrate the skin, but also to serve as a barrier from evaporative water loss.” Lotion up when your skin is mildly damp, like just after showering and toweling off, to retain as much moisture as possible.

 

3. Organic Doctor Manuka Honey Face Mask ($18.49)

Another great winter skin-care ingredient? Honey! The sweet, sticky stuff has been found to have emollient and humectant properties—meaning, it softens skin and draws moisture in, according to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. So while this face mask deep cleans your pores, the honey also nourishes your skin. Twice a week, apply an even layer of this mask over cleansed skin, wait 10 minutes while it gets to work, and then rinse it off for softer, smoother skin.

 

4. Derma E Hydrating Eye Cream ($17.20)

Don’t forget about your delicate under-eye area—the skin there is thinner, so it’s definitely susceptible to winter dryness. This hyaluronic acid-rich eye cream is also jam-packed with antioxidants like green tea (to help protect against skin-damaging free radicals) and vitamin C (to boost brightness). Lightly dab a small amount around your eyes morning and night.

 

5. Heritage Rosewater & Glycerin ($5.99)

Similarly to hyaluronic acid, glycerin also draws moisture in to the skin, says Tzu. Rosewater, on the other hand, has been shown to have soothing properties. A spritz of this spray here and there can go a long way towards moisturizing your complexion. Apply it whenever your face needs a midday pick-me-up.

 

6. SheaMoisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Body Wash ($9.99)

Push your moisture-stripping foam shower gels to the back of the shower and clean up with a coconut oil-infused body wash instead this winter. A study published in the journal Dermatitis found that applying coconut oil can help improve skin hydration. This body wash also contains coconut milk for an extra luxurious and silky feel.

Related: 12 Health And Beauty Uses For Coconut Oil

 

7. Okay Pure Natural Coconut Oil Ultra Skin Moisturizer ($4.99)

Make the most of coconut oil in every step of your skin-care routine by applying it to some of the most neglected skin on your body—your scalp. This oil (which also contains glycerin) feels heavenly when massaged onto your dry scalp. It’s also a great way to add moisture back into your hair—which, let’s face it, is also bound to dry out in the winter.

 

8. Nubian Heritage Raw Shea Butter Body Lotion ($9.99)

Another one of the most popular—and effective—ingredients you can use to moisturize dry skin this winter is shea butter, which contains essential fatty acids and vitamin E, and has been lauded for its ability to maintain skin’s suppleness. Research suggests it also helps sooth irritated skin. In addition to shea butter, this rich lotion is also infused with other nourishing ingredients like soy milk, jojoba oil, cocoa butter, and macadamia seed oil.

 

9. Dr. Bronner’s Naked Organic Lip Balm ($2.89)

Often the least protected from the elements, your poor lips probably take the biggest hit during the winter. That’s why you should stash a lip balm in every jacket pocket and bag you own. This one’s chock-full of nourishers like beeswax, avocado oil, jojoba oil, and hemp oil.

 

10. Duke Cannon Bloody Knuckles Hand Repair Balm ($10.99)

Your hands also bear a lot of the brunt of winter—especially if you wash them constantly to avoid getting whatever nasty bug is currently circulating around the office. That’s why coating your hands in moisturizer is a must. This one is made with lanolin (a.k.a. wool wax), a popular emollient (skin soother and smoother).

If your hands are particularly dry or chapped, apply a generous amount of balm before bed, and then slip on a pair of gloves. Applying this physical barrier over the moisturizer may help enhance hydration, says Tzu.

Besides using moisturizing products, Tzu also recommends drinking lots of water, using a humidifier, and avoiding hot-hot showers, which can strip natural oils from your skin.

Christina Heiser

Vitamin C Is As Important As Ever—And Not Just For Immune Support

You’ve probably popped a vitamin C-loaded tablet before flying or downed an extra glass of orange juice when you felt the sniffles coming on, but vitamin C does so much more than support your immune system, affecting everything from how well you absorb other nutrients and respond to injury to what your skin looks like.

Vitamin C may not be brand new or as trendy as reishi mushrooms, but it’s just as important as ever. Here’s everything you need to know about vitamin C, including the many ways it benefits your body, how much you need a day, and how to get your fill.

Key Health Benefits

Also known as ‘ascorbic acid,’ vitamin C is revered for its role in keeping our immune system healthy—which is why we talk about it so often during cold and flu season. Vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants out there, fighting off damaging particles called free radicals that can put our body in a state of oxidative stress, which has been implicated in illness and diseases like diabetes, Parkinson’s, and cancer. Plus, vitamin C can also help other antioxidants (like vitamin E) regenerate and keep fighting the good fight.

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Vitamin C also plays a role in the formation of collagen, a protein that’s crucial for connective tissues like skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels, making it essential for our body to heal injuries or wounds, says dietitian Amy Goodson, M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D., L.D. In this same way, vitamin C is involved in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. (It’s no wonder that scurvy, the condition that occurs because of a severe lack of vitamin C, involves gum disease, bruising, and skin issues.)

Related: I Drank Collagen For 30 Days—Here’s How It Turned Out

Another key function of vitamin C is that it boosts our absorption of plant-based, or ‘non-heme,’ iron, which is about 10 percent less bioavailable than animal-based (‘heme’) iron. Iron helps carry oxygen to our muscles, cells and organs, and without an ample supply, our various body systems have less oxygen to work with, often leading to fatigue or lightheadedness. (This makes eating vitamin C—and pairing it with iron-containing foods—especially important for vegetarians and vegans.)

Long-term research suggests that those who eat higher amounts of antioxidant-packed foods have a reduced risk of high blood pressure, while low intakes have been linked with increased risk of peripheral artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Beauty Benefits

Not only does vitamin C bolster the function and health of body systems we can’t see, but it can also have a huge impact on one we can: our skin. You see, the free radicals that wreak havoc on our cells also affect our appearance, with ultraviolet light and pollution damaging the collagen in our skin and leading to premature wrinkles and dark spots, according to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. One of our greatest weapons against these negative skin effects? You guessed it: vitamin C.

“Topically, vitamin C can help attain more youthful-looking skin with a brighter, more even skin tone,” adds Michelle Henry, M.D., clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. The antioxidant targets two key factors in the aging process: It promotes healthy collagen production and inhibits enzyme action that spurs the formation of melanin (the pigment that adds color to skin and causes ‘dark spots’).

A study published in the American Journal for Clinical Nutrition also found that middle-aged women who consumed more vitamin C were more likely to have more youthful-looking skin (marked by less dryness and appearance of wrinkles).

How To Load Up

The National Institute of Health recommends 90 milligrams of vitamin C per day for men and 75 milligrams per day for women—but those who smoke may need an additional 35 milligrams per day. Plus, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need 85 milligrams and 120 milligrams a day, respectively, according to Goodson.

Our body can’t produce this vitamin on its own, which means we have to get it through our diet or supplementation to reap its widespread benefits. And since vitamin C is water-soluble, it can’t be stored in the body, so we need to consume it regularly.

Luckily, many fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamin C, with red bell peppers (95 milligrams per half cup), oranges (70 milligrams per medium fruit), and broccoli (51 milligrams per cooked half cup) ranking as some of the top sources. There’s also a wide range of C supplements for people who aren’t always able to eat well-balanced meals.

To maximize your iron absorption, Goodson recommends adding a vitamin C-containing food (like citrus fruit, tomatoes, or strawberries) to meals that feature plant-based sources of iron (like spinach, nuts, and beans). For example, if you’re having a spinach salad topped with nuts and seeds, top it with mandarin orange or strawberry slices. You can also find supplements containing this important combo, like The Vitamin Shoppe’s Iron Complex.

If you want to slather vitamin C’s goodness straight onto your skin, Zeichner recommends reaching for serums, which contain high concentrations of the vitamin and are designed to enhance its delivery into the skin. (We recommend Derma E’s Vitamin C Concentrated Serum.)

One warning: “Vitamin C does not always play nicely with other ingredients,” says Zeichner, who doesn’t recommend combining vitamin C products with topical retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids. He also urges caution if you have very sensitive skin, since vitamin C may cause some irritation.

Keep vitamin C’s benefits top-of-mind with this quick infographic:

Kelsey Butler

This Maple Syrup Mask Is Literally Breakfast For Your Face

As a lifestyle and beauty writer, I’m always down to try the latest trends—especially if it’s DIY and has anything to do with skin-care. I especially love face masks, not just because they’re easy to apply, but because they repair and protect my skin while giving it a soft and smooth finish. (It’s also important for me to make time once or twice a week to treat myself—and pampering my skin with a mask always provides the pick-me-up I need.)

My new favorite mask is one that’s quick and easy to whip up, and good enough to eat. For real. It’s got three simple ingredients: maple syrup, milk, and oatmeal.

Here’s why it works: The maple syrup is moisturizing and cleansing, and it contains antioxidants and free radical-fighting polyphenols. Oats are known for their gentle skin-smoothing abilities, and the milk contains skin health-boosting lactic acid.

The author before the face mask.

Before applying the mask, I wash my face with a simple cleanser to make sure my skin is receptive to the mask’s super-powers. After washing the mask off with warm water, I immediately feel a difference. My cheeks tend to get very dry in the colder months, but after applying this mask, they feel so soft to the touch. I also notice a decrease in facial redness the following day.

Here’s the recipe so you can try it out for yourself:

DIY MAPLE SYRUP FACE MASK

Ingredients

PREP

  1. Measure out your ingredients.
  2. Microwave the maple syrup in a bowl for 15-20 seconds. You want the maple syrup to get warm and pliable so it mixes with the oats and milk nicely.
  3. Add in the rest of the ingredients. Mix them together until they form a paste-like consistency.
  4. The texture of the mask will be thick and sticky—that’s good! It’s supposed to be that way. If you want a thinner texture, add a little bit more milk and stir. Just don’t add too much or the mask will become watery.

APPLICATION

  1. You can apply the face mask with your hands or a brush, but make sure you do it on clean skin.
  2. Wait 15 minutes before rinsing the mask off. You can go about your business (a.k.a. watching Netflix) until the 15 minutes are up.
  3. Rinse off with warm water and lightly towel dry your face with a cloth.
  4. I do this about once per week. You can do it more often if your skin feels dry or dull.

IMPROVISE!

The author after the face mask.

 

Here are some ways to double up on your mixture, in case you have leftovers:

  1. This mask isn’t just for your face. It can be used to soften dry skin on the back of your arms, your legs, or feet—anywhere you want to show a little extra love.
  2. Want more texture? Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the mask for a more exfoliating experience.
  3. Apply the mask more regularly—twice a week is a great way to add moisture to skin that might be severely dehydrated, especially in the winter. Discontinue if you notice any irritation!

 

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Stephanie Valente