Skin Care - FitOn

UV Safety Month: How to Protect Your Skin While You Sweat Outside

Mady Peterson — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:09:44 +0000

Summer has a way of pulling your workout outside. Morning runs, beach walks, pickleball matches that turn into three pickleball matches — this is the season to move in the sunshine.

But here’s the thing about all that glorious outdoor movement: your skin is along for every mile. July is UV Safety Month, and it’s the perfect nudge to make sun protection as automatic as filling your water bottle.

The good news? Protecting your skin doesn’t mean skipping your outdoor sweat sessions. It just means being a little smarter about how (and when) you soak up the sun.

Why UV Protection Matters for Active People

If you work out outside regularly, your UV exposure adds up faster than you think — and not just on obvious beach days. Quick jogs, outdoor yoga, even walking meetings all count.

A few stats worth knowing:

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US, and about 1 in 5 Americans will develop it in their lifetime
Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma
Roughly 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are linked to UV exposure from the sun
When melanoma is caught early, the 5-year survival rate is over 99%

Sun damage is cumulative, but it’s also largely preventable. A few small habits now pay off for decades.

Know Your UV Index (It’s Already on Your Phone)

The UV Index tells you how strong the sun’s rays are right now, and it lives in the same weather app you check before deciding between shorts and leggings.

Here’s the quick cheat sheet:

0-2: Low risk. Enjoy your outdoor workout freely.
3-5: Moderate. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and consider shade during midday.
6-7: High. Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses — the full lineup.
8+: Very high. Move your workout to early morning, evening, or indoors.

UV rays peak between 10 AM and 4 PM, which is one more reason that sunrise run hits different. Cooler temps, quieter streets, gentler sun. Win, win, win.

6 Sun-Smart Habits for Outdoor Workouts

#1 Apply sunscreen before you head out

Sunscreen needs about 15 minutes to absorb before it starts working. Make it part of your pre-workout routine — right after you lace up, right before you walk out the door.

Go with a broad-spectrum formula (that means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with SPF 30 or higher.

#2 Reapply after you sweat

Here’s the part most people miss: no sunscreen is truly sweat-proof or waterproof, no matter what the label implies. If you’re sweating hard, swimming, or toweling off, reapply every two hours — sooner if you’re drenched.

Keep a travel-size tube in your gym bag, beach bag, or pickleball bag so it’s actually there when you need it.

#3 Cover the spots everyone forgets

Ears, neck, hairline, lips, hands, and the tops of your feet are the most commonly missed (and most commonly burned) areas. An SPF lip balm and a quick swipe on your ears take about 10 seconds.

#4 Dress for protection, not just performance

Your workout wardrobe can do double duty. Look for:

UPF-rated activewear — lightweight, breathable fabrics with built-in sun protection
A wide-brimmed hat or cap — bonus points if it covers your ears and neck
Sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA/UVB rays — check for the “UV 400” label

Fun fact: darker, tightly woven fabrics actually block more UV than light, loosely knit ones.

#5 Make shade part of your route

Plan your run or walk along tree-lined streets, take recovery breaks under cover, and choose the shaded court when you can. Even small shade breaks reduce your total exposure.

#6 Skip the tanning bed, always

There’s no such thing as a safe base tan. Indoor tanning significantly increases skin cancer risk, and a base tan won’t protect you from burning. If you want the glow, self-tanner has come a long way.

Don’t Forget Your Warm-Up (Your Skin Isn’t the Only Thing That Needs Prep)

Whether you’re heading out for a run, a hike, or a pickleball match, prepping your body matters just as much as prepping your skin. A proper warm-up gets your muscles ready to move and helps you play harder, longer — without the next-day regret.

FitOn’s sports warm-up workouts are designed to get you match-ready in minutes, so you can spend less time stiff and more time in the game. Sunscreen first, warm-up second, then go get it.

One More Thing: Check Your Skin

Once a month, take a quick look at your skin for new moles or changes to existing ones. And book that annual skin check with a dermatologist — it’s a 15-minute appointment that can genuinely save your life.

Protect Your Skin This Summer

You don’t have to choose between loving the sun and protecting your skin. Check the UV Index, apply (and reapply) SPF 30+, grab your hat and shades, and keep moving.

Ready to get moving this summer? Check out the FitOn app for free workouts you can take anywhere, from outdoor-friendly cardio to sports warm-ups that prep you for game day.

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7 Summer Skin Mistakes Dermatologists Want You to Stop Making

Mady Peterson — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:45:04 +0000

Here’s the thing about summer skin problems: most of them aren’t random. That post-pool tightness, those unexpected breakouts after outdoor workouts, the weird rash that showed up after a beach trip — your skin is reacting to something specific. And once you understand what’s actually triggering it, fixing it gets a lot simpler.

Summer puts your skin through a lot. Heat, humidity, UV exposure, chlorine, sweat, and air conditioning are all working against you at once. But with a few smart habit shifts, you can stay ahead of the most common issues before they sideline you. Here’s what to watch for — and what to do about it.

RELATED: 30-Day Glowing Skin Challenge

The Summer Skin Problems Worth Knowing About (And How to Actually Prevent Them)

#1 Breaking Out More in Summer? Sweat Is Probably the Culprit

Summer acne hits differently than your usual breakouts — and it’s not just hormones. Heat and humidity ramp up oil production, and sweat sitting on your skin mixes with that oil and bacteria to clog pores fast. The chest, back, and hairline are especially prone.

The fix isn’t washing your face more aggressively — that can actually backfire by stripping your skin and triggering even more oil. Experts recommend switching to a lighter moisturizer in summer so your skin gets hydration without the heaviness that clogs pores. And if you work out outdoors? Change out of sweaty clothes and rinse off as soon as you can — don’t let sweat sit on your skin for hours.

#2 Your Skin Feels Dry — Even Though It’s 90 Degrees Outside

Hot weather and dry skin feel like a contradiction, but it happens all the time in summer. The culprit is usually a combination of three things: too much time in the pool, too much air conditioning, and not enough moisturizer applied at the right time.

Chlorine is tough on your skin barrier — it strips the natural oils that keep moisture locked in. Many dermatologists recommend taking a cool (not hot) shower after swimming and applying a hydrating moisturizer immediately afterward to replenish lost moisture. That timing window — applying moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp — is what actually makes it work.

#3 You’re Burning Even When You Think You’re Protected

Most people apply sunscreen once and consider it handled. That’s not how it works — especially in summer when you’re actually outside. Experts recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours, and every time you get out of the water, because you can’t know how much has washed off.

There’s also the coverage issue. Studies consistently show people apply far less sunscreen than they need, which cuts protection significantly. For your face, think a nickel-sized amount. For your body, a full shot glass worth. Look for broad-spectrum protection that covers both UVA and UVB rays, not just one or the other.

#4 Your Skin Routine Hasn’t Changed Since Winter

The moisturizer that saved your skin in January is probably working against you in July. Heavy creams that were great for winter dryness sit on top of skin in the heat, mixing with sweat and sunscreen in ways that aren’t doing you any favors. Dermatologists recommend switching to a lighter moisturizer in summer — same effective ingredients, lighter delivery — so you get the hydration without the heaviness.

The same goes for cleansers. Anything labeled antibacterial or deodorant can over-strip your skin, especially when you’re already dealing with more sun exposure and sweat. A gentle, fragrance-free cleanser does the job without disrupting your skin barrier.

#5 Prickly Heat Is Real — And More Common Than You’d Think

Heat rash isn’t just a kid thing. Adults get it too, especially anyone who’s active outdoors or lives somewhere genuinely hot and humid. It happens when sweat gets trapped under the skin instead of evaporating — causing that signature itchy, prickly, red-bumped rash most commonly on the chest, neck, and back.

The most effective prevention is also the most straightforward: keep your skin cool and let it breathe. Loose, lightweight, breathable fabrics make a real difference. So does timing your outdoor workouts earlier in the morning or later in the evening when the heat index is lower. If you already have a heat rash, get out of the heat, let your skin air out, and resist the urge to apply heavy creams that’ll trap more heat.

#6 You’re Ignoring Moles and Skin Changes

This is the one that matters most — and the one people put off the longest. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis in the United States, and summer is peak UV exposure season. The good news is it’s also one of the most preventable and detectable cancers when you’re paying attention.

Get familiar with your skin now, before summer gets going. When checking at home, look for anything that’s evolving or changing over time. An annual skin check isn’t a big ask — and it’s the kind of thing you’ll be glad you made time for.

#7 You’re Not Thinking About What You’re Eating and Drinking

Skincare isn’t only topical. What you put in your body shows up on your face — and summer eating habits can work for or against your skin in a big way. Dehydration dulls skin fast, and most people are running behind on water intake all season without realizing it. Dermatologists point out that dehydrated skin appears dry, dull, and more prone to visible fine lines — and summer sweat accelerates fluid loss significantly.

Beyond water, antioxidant-rich summer foods — berries, watermelon, tomatoes, leafy greens — help neutralize the oxidative stress that UV exposure creates at the cellular level. Think of it as inside-out sun protection that complements everything you’re doing topically.

Listen to Your Skin This Summer

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and summer is genuinely one of its harder seasons. But most of what causes problems — clogged pores, dryness, burns, heat rash — is preventable with a little consistency and the right habits in place.

Swap your winter moisturizer, reapply your SPF, rinse off after the pool, check your moles. Small stuff that adds up to skin that actually looks and feels good all season long.

Take care of your whole body this summer, not just your skin. FitOn’s premium wellness and fitness programs help you build the habits that keep you feeling great from the inside out.

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12 Ways to Spice up Your Fall Skincare Routine For Nourished Skin

Rebecca Jacobs — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 17:00:55 +0000

As the beauty of fall emerges, so does crisp and dry air, which means our skincare needs change. With the increased risk of dry and dehydrated skin, it’s essential to adjust your routine to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, and irritated. To keep your complexion glowing, we’re sharing the best fall skincare tips. Think: hydrating serums, thicker moisturizers, and gentle exfoliants to remove dead skin cells without causing further dryness.

So, as you prepare to wrap yourself in cozy sweaters and sip on pumpkin spice lattes, consider these 12 ways to spice up your fall skincare routine.

Give Your Skincare Routine a Seasonal Update With These 12 Fall Skincare Hacks

#1 Transition to a Richer Moisturizer

The lightweight, gel-based moisturizers you loved in summer may not cut it in the cooler months. Consider switching to a creamier, thicker moisturizer that locks in hydration and keeps your skin supple.

Here are some clean ingredient moisturizers to consider for fall:

#2 Introduce a Hydrating Serum

Consider adding a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid before your moisturizer. This will help attract moisture to the skin and help retain it.

Here are some great hydrating serums to consider adding to your fall skincare routine:

#3 Don’t Skip on the Sunscreen

Even though the days get shorter, UV rays remain a constant threat. Continue using a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from premature aging and potential damage.

Consider one of these clean ingredient sunscreens for your fall skincare routine:

#4 Indulge in Face Masks

As the weather cools down, treat yourself to hydrating or creamy face masks. Look for ingredients like honey, shea butter, or avocado, which can offer an extra layer of moisture and nourishment.

Here are some great options to consider:

#5 Exfoliate, But Gently

Dead skin cells can accumulate and make your skin look dull. A mild exfoliant can help remove them, brightening your complexion. However, avoid over-exfoliating as it can lead to irritation.

Here are some exfoliators to consider adding to your fall skincare routine:

#6 Incorporate Facial Oils

If you haven’t already, fall is a great time to introduce facial oils to your routine. Oils like argan, jojoba, or rosehip can provide additional hydration and leave your skin glowing.

Here are some clean ingredient facial oils to try this season:

#7 Lip Care is Essential

Chapped lips are common in the fall. Keep a hydrating lip balm handy, and consider doing a weekly lip scrub to keep your lips soft and smooth.

These are some excellent clean beauty lip care products:

#8 Adjust Your Cleanser

If you’ve been using a foaming or gel cleanser, consider switching to a hydrating or cream-based cleanser, which can be gentler on the skin during colder months.

We love these hydrating cleansers for the cooler fall season:

#9 Eye Creams Are Your Friend

The skin around our eyes is delicate. An eye cream can provide the necessary hydration and care, preventing early signs of aging and maintaining a refreshed look.

If you need a little extra hydration boost, try one of these eye creams this season:

#10 Embrace Overnight Treatments

Nighttime is when our skin goes into repair mode. Boost its rejuvenation process with overnight masks or treatments that work while you sleep.

Consider one of these overnight face treatments for an extra skincare boost this fall:

#11 Humidify Your Space

Indoor heating can dry out the air in our homes, leading to dehydrated skin. Invest in a good humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels, ensuring your skin remains hydrated. This bedside humidifier from Canopy is a great option to support hydrated skin during the colder seasons.

#12 Stay Hydrated

Remember, external products can only do so much. Drinking ample water and consuming hydrating foods like cucumbers and oranges can help maintain your skin’s glow from within. It’s also a good idea to keep a reusable water bottle, like the FitOn Hydrate Me Bottle, with you to fill up throughout the day.

Embrace Fall With Confidence

As the leaves change color and the temperatures drop, adapting your skincare routine can ensure that your skin remains radiant, healthy, and well-nourished. Embrace the season’s change by making these tweaks, and you’ll have glowing skin all season long!

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5 Expert-Approved Tips For Healthy Summer Skin

Dominique Michelle Astorino — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 17:00:21 +0000

There’s something about sun-kissed skin that epitomizes the essence of summer. It radiates a healthy, vibrant glow that many people strive for during the sunny months. However, while mindful sunshine can promote healthy summer skin, too much summer sun can do more harm than good — it’s a fine line! Between more time outdoors in the sun, humidity fluctuations (the AC really does dry you out!) and temperature swings, salt and chlorine from aquatic adventures, and systemic dehydration… our skin can take quite the hit in the heat of summertime.

So, in an effort to keep you radiant this season, we conferred with skincare experts to get the best (and simplest) tips to care for your skin — face and beyond! — for the next few months. Summer glow, here we come.

Why Skin Health is Essential

Skincare is healthcare — it’s not just vanity or a wellness industry fad! What you may not know is that the skin is the largest organ in the body, and deserves our attention, time, and of course, some TLC. This is especially true during the summer months, which can prove to be quite abrasive to our poor epidermis.

Aside from acting as a barrier against environmental pollutants, pathogens, and UV radiation, healthy skin helps regulate body temperature, prevents dehydration, and supports immune function. And oftentimes, as our most external layer, our skin is a direct reflection of what’s going on inside our body, in our innermost layers that we cannot see. This includes our gut health, and even our mental health! So, let’s make sure we’re nourishing it.

Summer Skincare: The Top 5 Tips, According to Experts

#1 Wash Your Face Twice a Day

Healthy skin starts with a clean slate, according to the experts. “Most of us see the necessity to brush our teeth twice a day, but there’s too much controversy over how often to wash our faces,” posits Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist with over 40 years of experience (and founder of Dr. Loretta skincare).

“A simple study was done that showed that you’re most likely to incorporate a skincare product regularly if you leave it out next to your toothpaste, so this is just what I do and what I recommend to everyone,” she says. “Washing is important, since we know that pollution is a major cause of age spots, and there are higher pollution levels indoors than outside. So, we need to wash away debris, dust mites from our pillowcases, excess oils, etc — morning and night!”

#2 Apply an SPF Product Every Morning

As one of the pioneering UVA researchers in Harvard’s photobiology lab in the 1970s, Dr. Loretta is particularly passionate about sun protection — you could call her a sunscreen evangelist!

Applying SPF isn’t limited to days in which you’re outside, she says. “During the course of your daily activities, you may be getting what we call ‘inadvertent sun exposure,’ either when driving (since UVA comes through window glass), or from a short errand outdoors that turns into more exposure than you planned (like going to your mailbox and running into a neighbor, etc).”

“Published research in the dermatology journals shows that visible light from the sun will cause more significant redness, swelling, and hyperpigmentation than the proportionate amount of UVA that you get from the sun,” she adds. “So I am a big advocate of using a sunscreen that protects skin from visible light, especially the blue light from the sun, which has the highest amount of energy (sometimes called HEV for High Energy Visible Light).”

This blue light is also why it’s important to wear sunscreen even if you’re not spending ample time outdoors. More recently, you may see some products that claim to protect from blue light… which can also come from non-solar sources, i.e., screen time.

“The problem with doing any research on indoor HEV is that there is a huge variation in the amount of HEV light each of us gets from our own computers, cell phones, and other screens since each device emits a varying amount of light,” says Dr. Loretta. “And the screens emit a lot less HEV than the sun, but our exposure times are huge when we compare how much sunbathing we do in a week to how much screen time we accumulate.

#3 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Looking for healthy summer skin? Ask yourself… what’s on your plate? What you eat this summer can directly affect how glowy your complexion is, too. Elisabeth Nehme, skincare educator and trainer at comfort zone, recommends eating water-dense foods in addition to drinking more water. “Some great hydrating foods to hydrate your skin from the inside out are watermelon, cucumbers, celery, and lettuce.” Not only will these fresh fruits and vegetables make sure you’re eating more whole foods, but the H2O density will improve your skin health as well, and help to prevent overall dehydration.

#4 Adjust Your Skincare Lineup

In addition to daily sunscreen use, Nehme recommends making some tweaks to your daily skincare routine. To treat dry, agitated, or sunburnt skin, you might want to add a new product like a mask. “Pick calming and soothing masks to comfort and smooth stressed skin,” she says. “Hydrating creams with hyaluronic acid (HA) or hydrating extracts like prickly pear can eliminate flakes and dryness, and products that contain aloe are great for soothing bug bites or irritated skin.”

So to recap:

Gentle cleanser
SPF of your choice
Calming mask treatments
Creams with hyaluronic acid, aloe, and/or prickly pear extract for added hydration

#5 Smile Often

No summertime sadness for your skin! This healthy tip has a host of benefits, and not just for your epidermis.

“Smiling tones the muscles of the jawline, neck, and chin,” says Dr. Loretta. At the beautiful age of 70, she claims that keeping a smile on her face has contributed to her “decently smooth neck and jawline, plus minimal Marionette creases,” in spite of her age.

“Train yourself to go to the mirror smiling instead of going to the mirror to look for facial flaws,” she suggests. This will not only help your skin, but your confidence, mental health, and overall well-being as well. A win-win-win!

Some tips to keep yourself smiling instead of overanalyzing or critiquing (if you’re prone to that): “Throw away the 10x magnifier, and instead pluck your eyebrows using a 2x magnifier with reading glasses to see any stray brows. Before you pull out of a parking spot, set your timer for three minutes and simply smile. In doing this, focus on the positive things: a beautiful sky, photos of people you love, anything that is going to help keep you smiling.” We love a skincare-meets-mental-health tip!

Hello, Glowing Summer Skin!

With these expert summer skincare tips, you’ll be well on your way to glowing summer skin. When practiced routinely, these simple habits – like hydrating, applying SPF, and simply smiling! – can transform your skin and help you obtain that summer glow you’ve been longing for.

And if you want to enhance your skin even further, take our 30-Day Skin Care Challenge! Learn expert tips and tricks, healthy skin recipes, and more!

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The Gut & Skin Connection: How to Optimize Both For Glowing Skin

Lexy Parsons — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 19:09:08 +0000

While our skin and gut may seem like unrelated systems, the truth is, they’re actually intricately connected. In fact, the health of our skin is often a direct reflection of what’s going on inside our body, particularly, in our gut. Connected by the gut-skin axis, a bidirectional communication pathway, research has shed light on this vital relationship, offering insights on how to optimize both organs for better health. From improved digestion to glowing skin, all you need to know about the gut and skin connection, ahead!

The Gut-Skin Relationship: What You Need to Know

Is there truly a link between poor digestion and breakouts? Can redness and skin aging relate to gut disorders? Hint: they are directly connected!

While seemingly unrelated, research shows an intricate connection between gut health and skin health. This connection is facilitated by various pathways, including the immune system, endocrine system, and the nervous system. Known as the gut-skin axis, this bidirectional communication explains how the health of our gut influences the condition and appearance of our skin. Ahead, what the research says on the gut-skin relationship.

The Gut, Skin, & Inflammation

From acne and redness to flaky skin and itchiness, inflammation is a sneaky culprit that can contribute to many skin conditions. When our gut health is imbalanced (whether due to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or a reduction in beneficial microbes) systemic inflammation and immune dysfunction can occur as a result. Triggering the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other mediators that contribute to increased oil production, clogged pores, and bacteria, this inflammation can exacerbate existing skin issues and lead to the development of new ones.

Leaky Gut & Skin Health

Disruptions in gut barrier function, often referred to as “leaky gut,” may also contribute to the development of skin issues by allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, these substances can trigger systemic inflammation and immune responses, which may manifest as skin inflammation, irritation, and other dermatological issues.

Skin Aging & Gut Health

Additionally, emerging research suggests a connection between gut health and skin aging. In addition to increasing oxidative stress — which can contribute to collagen degradation, elastin breakdown, and impaired wound healing — gut dysbiosis can impair the absorption of essential vitamins and antioxidants (such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols) that are crucial for skin health.

While poor gut health may negatively impact skin health, there’s good news: by optimizing gut health, we can significantly support the health of our skin, leading to improved appearance, vitality, and aging!

Simple Strategies to Optimize Gut Health for Better Skin

Eat the Rainbow

Filling your plate with a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to nourish both your gut and skin. Aside from contributing to a more diverse gut microbiota, these vibrant foods also provide an array of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation, support healthy aging, and protect the skin from oxidative damage.

Here are some colorful gut and skin-healthy foods to consider:

Sweet potatoes (including various varieties such as purple and Japanese sweet potatoes)
Broccoli
Cauliflower (including purple and orange varieties)
Berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
Dark leafy greens
Beets
Citrus fruits

Load Up On Fiber-Rich Foods

Increasing our intake of fiber-rich foods can help to nourish and feed our beneficial gut bacteria, helping to slow skin aging and improve skin health in the process. A study published in the journal Nutrition Reviews found that higher fiber intake was correlated with reduced levels of inflammatory markers in the body, which may help alleviate skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Additionally, fiber helps promote regularity and detoxification, potentially minimizing skin issues related to toxin buildup.

Prebiotic and fiber-rich foods include:

Jerusalem artichokes
Whole grains, such as oats, barley, and quinoa
Apples
Avocados
Bananas
Seeds, such as chia, flax, and hemp
Nuts, such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts

Stay Hydrated

Ever notice how our skin can look dull and irritated when it lacks moisture? That’s because hydration isn’t just important for our skin — it’s also crucial for our gut health. Adequate hydration supports the mucosal lining of the intestines, aiding in digestion and maintaining a healthy gut barrier. This barrier prevents harmful substances from leaking into the bloodstream and causing inflammation, which can lead to skin issues and signs of aging. To support skin hydration, elasticity, and a youthful appearance, aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day and limit dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine.

Avoid Inflammatory Triggers

Speaking of foods like alcohol, you’ll also want to be mindful of other inflammatory triggers in your diet. Foods high in refined sugars, processed oils, and artificial additives can contribute to inflammation in the body, which may manifest as skin issues such as acne, eczema, or redness. Additionally, certain food sensitivities or allergies can exacerbate gut inflammation, further impacting skin health. To promote both gut and skin health, focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

A simple trick is to shop the perimeter of the grocery store — it’s here you’ll find the most wholesome options. And remember to always read the ingredient label — sneaky ingredients can be hiding in plain sight!

Manage Stress

Stress management is one of those things that helps with just about everything — gut and skin health included! When stressed, our body produces higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that can increase inflammation and compromise gut barrier function. If chronic, this can lead to digestive issues like bloating and poor nutrient absorption, as well as exacerbate skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and redness. By incorporating stress management techniques into our routine — such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature — we can optimize digestion, support nutrient absorption, and support healthy aging and glowing skin.

Get Adequate Sleep

Similar to stress management, sleep plays a vital role in nourishing our gut microbiome and skin health. During sleep, the body undergoes essential repair and regeneration processes, including the repair of damaged tissues and the removal of toxins. As sleep becomes compromised, signs of skin aging (like dark circles, wrinkles, and facial swelling) may become more pronounced. Additionally, increased sugar cravings and a slowed metabolism can adversely affect gut health, contributing to digestive issues and hormone dysfunction. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night, and consider creating a relaxing bedtime routine!

Prioritize Probiotics

If you want to glow from the inside out, you’ll want to prioritize your intake of probiotics, whether from supplements or food-based sources! According to research, incorporating fermented and probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut, helping to aid nutrient absorption, reduce inflammation, and support skin barrier function. If you’re considering supplementation, probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum have been shown to help reduce inflammation, support immune function, and improve skin health.

Radiant Skin Starts From Within

As the body’s largest organ, our skin serves as a direct reflection of our internal health. And now that we understand the intricate connection between our gut microbiome and skin health, we can see that radiant skin starts from within! By prioritizing gut health through a balanced diet, hydration, stress management, and probiotic supplementation, we can address not only surface-level concerns, but also support the deep-rooted causes for long-term skin health, gut health, and overall vitality.

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30-Day Glowing Skin Challenge

Lexy Parsons — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 17:00:16 +0000

If you struggle with acne, blemishes, or fine lines and wrinkles, you’re not alone. Despite the seemingly flawless skin we see flooding our social media feeds, we all have skin insecurities. And don’t be fooled, even celebrities and influencers with “picture perfect” skin struggle with the same insecurities as you and I! But, unfortunately, the rise in filters, face-tuning apps, and cosmetic procedures has skewed our perception of beauty and set unrealistic standards. From poreless complexions to acne and blemish-free skin to enlarged lips and non-existent wrinkles, we are bombarded with images that portray an unattainable and often unnatural version of beauty. This constant exposure to altered and edited images can leave us feeling inadequate and self-conscious about our own skin. In fact, according to a recent poll, nearly 75% of women strongly associate their self-confidence with the condition and appearance of their skin.

But, the truth is, there’s no such thing as “perfect skin” — we all have areas we want to improve! Plus, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the root cause of skin conditions. From increased stress and inadequate sleep to poor diet and excess sun exposure, there are so many contributing factors to skin aging and inflammation.

So, whether you’re struggling with acne and scars or sunspots and wrinkles, know that there’s no need to feel embarrassed, insecure, or alone. That said, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to feel beautiful and confident in your skin! But, rather than focusing solely on the surface, what if you considered healing your skin from the inside out? By this, we mean prioritizing an overall healthy and balanced lifestyle, with emphasis on areas such as sleep, nutrition, products, sun exposure, and stress. If you’re ready to glow from the inside out, we’re here to guide you, step by step.

Enter: the FitOn 30-Day Glowing Skin Challenge. Ahead, 30 tips and 30 days to a healthier, more vibrant you!

FitOn’s 30-Day Glowing Skin Challenge

We’ve put together a 30-day healthy skin challenge. With expert beauty advice, product recommendations, and easy-to-implement beauty hacks, this simple (and free) beauty challenge will help you radiate from the inside out. Up for the challenge? You’re one month away from a more radiant you.

Day One: Eat Your Vitamin C

If you want to support the health of your skin, slow the signs of aging, and boost your natural glow, don’t underestimate the power of nutrition. While there are many skin-supporting supplements (more on this below), vitamin C deserves a superstar spotlight. You may know this nutrient as one of the best topicals for healthy skin, but did you know it’s just as powerful when eaten in food form? Loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C-rich foods like citrus, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli, and pineapple fight free radical damage to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, inflammation, and lackluster. Vitamin C is also required for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that helps firm, soften, and smooth the skin. With benefits like these, you’ll want to load up on this nutrient!

To kick off your 30-day challenge, try these tasty ways to boost your Vitamin C:

Add a handful of berries and freshly squeezed citrus to your water
Snack on kiwi and citrus fruits like oranges, and grapefruit
Make a tropical green smoothie with spinach, kale, lemon, ginger, pineapple, and coconut water
Add some grilled or roasted broccoli, cauliflower, and bell pepper to your dinner menu
Satisfy your sweet tooth with healthy Dark Chocolate & Strawberry freezer bark

Day Two: Clean Your Makeup Brushes

When was the last time you cleaned your makeup brushes? This includes beauty blenders, and any other multi-use products in your makeup bag! It might not be at the top of your to-do list, but if you suffer from acne, skin irritations, or itchy skin (and even if you don’t), you may want to make this a higher priority! According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should be washing your brushes every 7 to 10 days — even after a single use. Yet, many women go months (or more) without cleansing or replacing them! Not to gross you out, but dirty brushes make a perfect home for dirt, bacteria, and oil. Just think about it — even if you’re applying your makeup to a clean face, brushes can accumulate bacteria from the environment and your makeup bag. Rinse up!

Day Three: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Want the secret to dewy, radiant skin? Increase your water intake! While this is only one piece of the puzzle, drinking enough water is one of the best (and easiest) things you can do to support your skin. Plus, it helps support a variety of skin conditions! Shown to improve blood flow to the skin, improve skin appearance, reduce whole-body inflammation, and flush out toxins, adequate hydration is beneficial for all skin types.

So, how much water per day is ideal? Based on findings from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men require about 15.5 cups of fluids per day, and women require about 11.5 cups.

If this sounds like a lot, you can also support some of your daily hydration needs from the foods you eat. Try filling your summer plate with water-rich foods like cucumber, leafy greens, melon, and celery.

If you struggle staying hydrated, try carrying a water bottle with you throughout the day. It will serve as a visual reminder to stay hydrated, making it easier to meet your daily hydration goals. And if you’re bored of plain old water, try infusing it with healthy flavor add-ins like berries, lemon, mint, or citrus. To help meet your goals, you can even make a DIY electrolyte drink, or sip on a low-sugar mocktail.

Day Four: Give Gua Sha A Try

Taking whole-body health into consideration, we spoke with Dr. Monica Foitzik, licensed acupuncturist practicing Japanese meridian therapy in San Diego, California. Dr. Foitzik incorporates Kampo herbal medicine, Reiki, moxibustion, and fascial-release massage into her treatments to address everything from pain management and digestive issues to fertility, mental health disorders, and of course, facial rejuvenation.

A simple self-care practice utilized by Dr. Foitzik in her practice? Gua sha! “Don’t forget about your scalp and neck! Many don’t realize how much scalp and neck tension lead to sagging and wrinkled skin,” says Foitzik. “Regular gua sha or self-acupressure are great ways to reduce tension and keep those areas rejuvenated to prevent facial skin deterioration.” If you’re wondering how effective this facial rejuvenation treatment is, a single gua sha treatment has been shown to yield a four-fold increase in microcirculation followed by an immediate reduction in muscle pain. Think of it this way, by increasing blood flow, you’re helping deliver fresh oxygenated blood to an area that can help stimulate the body’s natural healing and repairing process.

Day Five: Address The Stress

ICYDK, “[chronic] amounts of unregulated stress can disrupt hormone balance and cause acne,” says Foitzik. “Additionally, high stress typically correlates with other unhealthy habits like poor diet, inadequate sleep, and a sedentary lifestyle. Over time, this lack of healthy routine can lead to dry, irritated skin, and even dull the complexion (depending on how depleted your body is).” This isn’t a one-size-fits-all skin issue, either. Stress can trigger and exacerbate a variety of skin disorders, affecting everything from rosacea and psoriasis to acne and eczema.

While stress isn’t always avoidable, managing stress with a regular self-care practice can prevent symptoms from occurring and worsening. Plus, it can help keep your skin condition from stressing you out even more! “Acupuncture, energy work, and different forms of therapy are good ways to start getting to the root causes of stress. Plus, [the feel-good effects of these mind-body practices] can trigger the will you need to build healthy habits in other areas such as diet, exercise, and meditation, which will support your skin (and overall health) even further” says Foitzik.

Try a simple meditation to calm your mind and ground your body
Book an acupuncture appointment
Roll out your mat for a calming yoga flow
Try a guided Box Breathing exercise
Take an Epsom salt bath with stress-reducing essential oils like lavender

Day Six: Anti-Aging Skincare Supplements

Now that you’re nearly a week into your 30-day skincare challenge let’s talk skincare supplements for natural skin aging. With that said, it’s important to realize that supplements cannot replace a balanced lifestyle. Plus, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution — everybody is different, and various skin types call for various supplements.

However, collagen and hyaluronic acid are two major anti-aging and rejuvenating supplements to consider alongside other healthy lifestyle practices. In addition to increasing your intake of collagen-stimulating nutrients (as mentioned above with Vitamin C), adding a collagen supplement may be worthwhile if you’re looking to slow down the aging clock. Here’s what to know:

Collagen:

Despite being trendy, science supports collagen for skin health, with data showing improved skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal collagen density with supplementation. In fact, supplementation has been shown to reverse the loss of age-related collagen synthesis, helping to prevent fine lines and wrinkles and maintain our youthful appearance.

Hyaluronic Acid:

As for hyaluronic acid, recent evidence shows improved beauty benefits with supplementation of this skin nutrient. In a recent 12-week, double-blind study, daily supplementation of hyaluronic acid showed a significant improvement in water loss, skin elasticity, wrinkles, and overall skin condition.

Day Seven: DIY Honey Face Mask

You’ve completed one week of your skincare challenge! While these lifestyle and beauty routine changes may seem simple, small habits add up over time (and make for long-lasting results). And when it comes to our skin health, we’re in it for the long haul!

To cap off your week, it’s time for a little extra TLC — a DIY facemask. Simple, effective, and made with one ingredient: raw honey. Thanks to its natural antioxidants, enzymes, and antibacterial properties, raw honey can do wonders for your skin.

The benefits of honey:

Deeply hydrates and moisturizes the skin
Cleanse the pores and rid bacteria
Gently exfoliates without causing irritation or inflammation
Evens skin tone and improves scars
Improve skin tone and brightens the complexion

Simply apply 1-3 teaspoons of honey onto clean skin and let it sit for 5-30 minutes. Want to enhance your glow? Customize your mask with additional ingredients such as a splash of lemon juice to brighten your complexion or aloe vera gel to enhance skin moisture.

Day Eight: Swap Your Coffee For Matcha

Start the week off strong with this simple swap. Aside from reducing caffeine jitters and avoiding a caffeine crash, making the switch to matcha comes with a host of glowing skin benefits. Matcha is particularly rich in EGCG, a powerful antioxidant with many skin-protective benefits. In fact, this active ingredient is often extracted and added to skincare products thanks to its beneficial effects on skin hydration and retention, wrinkle formation, and anti-aging support. If that wasn’t enough to convince you, the polyphenols found in this green dream powder have been shown to protect the skin from UV damage and the stress of environmental pollution.

We’re not saying you have to give up coffee forever, but try challenging yourself for the remainder of the month! Trust us — your skin will thank you.

Day Nine: Make SPF Your BFF

When it comes to supporting your skin, SPF is your BFF. Simply put, it’s the all-mighty barrier that protects your skin from the harsh summer ray.

But, it’s not enough to just slather any old sunscreen on and call it a day! Unfortunately, many conventional sunscreen brands contain toxic ingredients like endocrine disruptors and parabens. The good news? There are so many clean and green SPF brands on the market! Some of our favorites include: Coola SPF, Cocokind SPF, and Supergoop.

Day Ten: Treat Yourself to a (Weekly) Spa Night!

It’s time to treat yourself, and your skin! Pick a day each week where you do an extended skincare routine, says Foitzik. “Spend 2-3 extra minutes massaging your favorite cleanser into your skin, getting all the nooks and crannies (like around your nose, hairline, and behind the ears) then gently rinse with cool water and pat dry. If you utilize a derma roller in your routine, this is a good time to utilize one (I like Environ’s cosmetic gold roller). Follow with your serums — I typically rotate ones that incorporate hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin. Next, massage a facial oil — argan, sea buckthorn, and jojoba oils are great options — and then gua sha! Utilize intuitive strokes up and outward from the center of the face,” says Foitzik. “I personally love using gua sha tools made of stones, like rose quartz, jade, and amethyst. To finish, you’ll want to apply a moisturizing mask. Or, simply apply your moisturizer and eye serum or cream.”

For the best results, try making this a habitual part of your skincare and self-care routine. Maybe a Friday night in or self-care Sunday – you can even invite your girlfriends to join and make it a weekly ritual!

Day Eleven: Change Your Pillow Cover

Sounds simple, right? But, how often are you really doing this? Regularly changing your pillowcase is one of the easiest (and most effective) ways to reduce breakouts and prevent potential skin issues. Similar to makeup brushes, dirt, oil, sweat, and pollutants from the air can get trapped in your pillowcase and build up over time –— even if you’re going to bed with a clean face. So, if you cradle your face into your plush pillow every night and snooze away, there’s a high likelihood of irritating your skin (among other things).

At the very least, try to change your pillowcase once a week (even if you prolong your sheet washing a tad more). It doesn’t have to be anything time-consuming, either. When you wash your clothes, simply toss your pillowcase in the load!

If you’re extra acne-prone, you may want to consider swapping out your pillowcase on a more frequent basis (a few times a week, even daily).

Day Twelve: Load Up on Antioxidants

Load up your diet with antioxidant-rich fruits like juicy summer cherries, vibrant berries, and fresh pomegranate seeds. Foods with a vibrant red, blue, or purple pigment are full of nutrients like anthocyanins, polyphenols, and potent antioxidants — some of the best foods for your skin!

Here are some ways to enjoy them in your summer diet:

Add fresh berries to your overnight oats or yogurt bowl
Blend up an antioxidant-rich smoothie full of berries, cherries, spinach, almond butter, and almond milk
Enjoy a fresh fruit salad full of seasonal picks
Top your salad with blueberries or strawberries for all-natural sweetness

Day Thirteen: Sweat it Out for Healthy Blood Flow

The post-workout glow is real! In addition to supporting your summer health and fitness goals, reducing stress, and supporting sleep, sweating it out with a regular exercise routine can benefit your skin!

Every time you exercise, you’re increasing blood circulation and sending fresh, nutrient-rich blood to your skin. In addition to supplying your skin with vital nutrients and fresh oxygen, you’re supporting your lymphatic system in the removal of waste products. This promotes new cell growth, slows skin aging, stimulates collagen production, and reduces toxic build-up in the body (which can lead to acne and other skin disorders).

The key is staying consistent. Use this skin challenge as an opportunity to try something new! Press play on a new class in the FitOn app, try a new studio, or change up the scenery and take your workout outdoors.

Day Fourteen: Add a Vitamin C Serum

You’ve completed two weeks of your 30-day skincare challenge! Treat yourself to a new product. Our favorite? Vitamin C serum! While there are many products on the shelves, sometimes less is more. Rich in antioxidants, topical vitamin C has been shown to improve skin tone, brighten the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and prevent premature skin aging.

Your product doesn’t have to be pricey to be effective, either! This Maelove Glow Maker Vitamin C Serum is affordable, effective, and a worthwhile addition to any beauty routine.

Day Fifteen: Upgrade Your Beauty Products

Now that you’re halfway through your skin challenge, it’s time to rid some toxic habits (and products)! Similar to your SPF, going green with your beauty products is important — for both your skin and your body.

Conventional beauty products (including makeup, deodorant, face wash, haircare, and skincare products) are often made with toxic ingredients that can damage your skin and your health. The reality? There are more than 10,000 chemicals used in the formulation of conventional cosmetics. And, on average, American women use an average of 12 personal care products that contain 168 different chemicals every single day. Yet, only 11 chemicals have ever been banned or restricted. The bottom line? It’s important to be your own advocate — always read the ingredient labels!

Whether you do it all in one day or over the course of the month, take the time to go through all of your beauty products. Break up with those toxins once and for all!

Day Sixteen: Rinse With Care

You wash away the impurities from the day by cleansing your face every evening. Bravo! While routinely washing your face is important, the way in which you wash it matters too.

“Avoid hot water on your face,” says Foitzik. “Hot water can be very drying to the skin. Although I’m not an advocate of ice or anything super cold, washing and rinsing with cool water helps prevent dryness and reduces inflammation on the face.” Adding a little mindfulness to your routine can go a long way in supporting your skin.

Day Seventeen: Cleanse Your Post-Workout Routine

Speaking of face washing, your post-workout routine is just as important — especially if you’re wearing makeup or getting extra sweaty. If you have access to a bathroom or shower, take extra care to wash and cleanse your skin! Don’t have time? Pack non-toxic facial wipes for a quick fix. If you’re acne-prone, try a brand that uses salicylic acid like these gentle yet effective wipes.

BTW — sweating is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. If you plan to sweat it out, pack a change of clothes to avoid acne, eczema, inflammation, and irritation. And if possible, bring your own personal care items (like shampoo and deodorant) to avoid potential toxin exposure from conventional product use.

Day Eighteen: Get Your Beauty Sleep

It’s called beauty sleep for a reason! When you sleep, your body switches into the parasympathetic rest and digest state — this is the time for your body to repair and rebuild. Ideally, at the very least, you should be getting 7 hours of sleep per night. That said, life is busy and sometimes this doesn’t happen. But, can you challenge yourself to make (at least) one healthy upgrade to your sleep routine? Aside from supporting weight loss, boosting energy, and improving immune function, sleep is necessary for glowing, radiant skin.

Day Nineteen: Avoid Touching Your Face

Despite a new-found appreciation for hand sanitizer, we’re constantly coming into contact with germs and bacteria. With this in mind, touching our face is still a big no-no — especially if you’re acne-prone or have sensitive and oily skin! Between touching our phones and computer screens to opening doors and spending time in communal areas, germs can easily make their way onto our hands. When you touch your face, you’re spreading that bacteria which can lead to clogged pores, inflammation, irritation, and breakouts. Of course, there are many factors at play, but rubbing your face is a habit you’ll want to avoid.

Day Twenty: Swap Cocktails for Mocktails

We get it, it’s summer — sometimes a cocktail (or two) feels nice. But, unfortunately, your skin would disagree! First of all, alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the skin. This can lead to swollen, puffy eyes, dry flaky skin, inflammation, and rosacea. And because it disrupts your circadian rhythm, routinely consuming alcohol can lead to dark circles or bags under the eyes — and who wants that?

Plus, alcohol is pro-inflammatory — it can trigger oxidative stress, expose our body to free radicals, and speed skin aging. The exact opposite of what we want to happen! That said, the occasional boozy beverage isn’t going to damage your skin — it’s all about balance.

But, why not swap your cocktail for a mocktail? You’ll be reducing inflammation, avoiding dehydration, and preventing oxidative damage! Sounds like a win-win-win.

Need some inspiration? Try this hydrating summer mocktail:

Hydrating Summer Mocktail

Ingredients:

Crushed ice
½ cup pure watermelon juice, unsweetened
½ – 1 cup sparkling or seltzer water
1-2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
Fresh mint, to taste

Directions:

Step #1: Pour watermelon and lime juice over an ice-filled glass. Next, top with sparkling water and stir to combine.

Step #2: Garnish with fresh lime and mint. Enjoy!

Day Twenty-One: Book a Facial Or Microneedling Treatment

Wondering if microneedling is worth the hype? Trust us, you’ll want to book an appointment ASAP. “Microneedling was one of the biggest game-changers to my skin,” says Foitzik. “I used to suffer from hormonal acne and breakouts that would easily scar. Microneedling has helped to gently resurface my skin, encourage cell turnover, and increase collagen and elastin production. I typically recommend patients do a minimum of a series of 3 sessions spaced out 4-6 weeks to see results. [And to address the root cause] I offer holistic microneedling sessions, which incorporate LED light therapy and body acupuncture to provide internal healing simultaneously.”

Day Twenty-Two: Be Mindful of Your Sugar Intake

While we’re on the topic of nutrition, it’s time to address the sneaky sugars and inflammatory foods in your diet! Steer clear of processed ingredients, artificial sweeteners, and refined oils — these are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to skin (and whole-body) inflammation. Do a pantry cleanout, read the ingredient labels of (all) foods, and cook at home whenever possible! What you put inside your body reflects on the outside!

Day Twenty-Three: Eat the Rainbow

Now that you’ve kicked those sneaky sources of sugar (and other inflammatory foods) to the curb, it’s time to load up your diet with good-for-you nutrients! Instead of focusing on what you should subtract from your diet, consider all the nutrient-dense foods you could add. Try to “eat the rainbow” and fill your plate with a variety of colorful fruits and veggies. The more colors you eat, the more nutrients (like skin-supporting antioxidants, polyphenols, and carotenoids) you’ll get!

Day Twenty-Four: Make A Pitcher of Antioxidant-Rich Skin Food Water

By now, you should be a water-drinking pro. After all, hydrated skin = radiant skin!

To enhance the glow even more, try making a big batch of antioxidant-infused water and keeping it on hand at all times. Add ingredients like fresh berries, cooling mint, freshly squeezed citrus, and even cinnamon or cayenne. Drink up and soak in all the benefits!

Day Twenty-Five: Toss Expired Products

You’ve tossed your toxic products, but there’s one more thing to address: expired products! Yes, we’re talking about the endless array of oils, facemasks, and “clean” beauty products collecting dust on your shelves. If you’re anything like us, you probably have products that expired months ago (maybe even years). They might be loaded with active ingredients, pure botanicals, and powerful essential oils, but if these products are expired, they’re not doing much to support your skin.

And depending on how long they’ve been on the shelf (no judgment), these products could even grow bacteria or become rancid. Not so pretty, I know. Check your labels, friends!

Day Twenty-Six: Go Makeup-Free

Today we challenge you to go au naturel — go makeup-free and let your skin breathe! While makeup and foundation can give our skin a flawless sparkle, constantly bogging down your pores with heavy makeup and products can take a toll over time. Even if you’re a master face washer, there’s probably residual makeup and oil lingering on your skin. As you can imagine, this can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and inflammation.

All this aside, going makeup-free can help build your self-confidence. Whether your skin is acne-scarred, irritated, bumpy, or dry, your skin is beautiful. We all have imperfections, but it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Embrace your imperfections and learn to love the skin you were born with!

Day Twenty-Seven: Address Your Gut Health

Your gut health impacts just about everything — including your skin.

Research shows a direct correlation between the two — improved gut health is linked to improved skin health whereas poor gut health is associated with skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis, and dermatitis. In fact, it even has its own name: the gut-skin axis.

Can you challenge yourself to reduce gut inflammation (and support your skin in the process)? Adding in probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kimchi, reducing stress, and avoiding inflammatory triggers like processed foods and alcohol is a great place to start!

Day Twenty-Eight: Book an Infrared Sauna Sesh

Different from traditional saunas, infrared saunas penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in a deeper detox. This helps reduce inflammation, improve lymphatic flow, and heal the skin on a cellular level. Needless to say, it’s the ultimate skincare support. And as an added bonus, a hot and sweaty sauna sesh is one of the best ways to regulate your nervous system. This means you get to destress your mind while you detox your body!

Day Twenty-Nine: Address Hormonal Acne The Natural Way

If you’re struggling with hormonal acne, we feel your pain. Though it’s more normal than you think, we get it — breakouts can be painful, embarrassing, and impossible to get rid of. Consider addressing your acne from the inside out. “Two major supplements for balancing acne due to hormone irregularity are Saw Palmetto and DIM,” says Foitzik. While more research is needed, these natural plant compounds may help regulate hormones (such as estrogen and testosterone) that contribute to hormone and stress-induced irritation.

That said, everyone has different skin — there is no one-size-fits-all solution. “I highly recommend seeking the expertise of an acupuncturist and herbalist who can help heal and regulate any internal disharmonies that can be leading to poor skin health,” says Foitzik.

Day Thirty: Skip the Botox & Treat Yourself to a Cosmetic Acupuncture Treatment

Day 30! It’s time to celebrate your skin-care success with the ultimate skin-loving treat: a cosmetic acupuncture treatment. As a natural alternative to botox and fillers, this is the perfect way to cap off your month and take your skin support to the next level.

Let’s face it, we all want to preserve our youth. So, why not do it naturally? “Although facial acupuncture might not be as dramatic as botox or fillers in one session, multiple sessions (typically 10-12 per concern) help you achieve the skin you desire while enhancing your internal health, too,” says Foitzik. During facial acupuncture sessions, needles are applied to both the face and the body.” By addressing the internal and external state of the body, the results are not only effective, but they’re also long-lasting!

“In my personal practice, facial acupuncture sessions are 90-minute deep relaxation treatments consisting of a unique combination of acupuncture, moxibustion, gua sha, massage, facial cupping, LED light therapy, skincare, and even energy work. Post-treatment, herbs, supplements, diet, and lifestyle advice are also provided.” Essentially, addressing the health of the body (and thus skin) from all aspects — mind, body, and spirit!

Feel Beautiful In Your Skin

30 days and 30 ways to support your skin, improve your health, and feel good from the inside out. From all-natural product advice to diet and lifestyle hacks, you have all the tools you need to unleash your inner beauty. Perform this challenge anytime you’re needing some extra skin (or self) love. And of course, feel free to customize this challenge, adding or modifying any tips and tricks to best suit your needs.

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15 Ways to Nourish Your Skin During Colder Weather

Lexy Parsons — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 20:38:21 +0000

While summer skincare gets lots of attention, let’s not forget about our skin during those cold winter months! Because, let’s face it, the harsh winter weather can do a number on your skin. From dry, chapped lips, to scaly dehydrated skin, to rosy red winter cheeks, your skin is probably looking for some major TLC. And while you could totally treat yourself to some skincare staples, there are lots of other things you can do without breaking the bank (or spending a dime). From amping up your hydration to modifying your skincare routine, we’re breaking down all you need to know! Think of this as your cold-weather skincare guide.

15 Healthy Winter Skin Tips for Cold Weather Glow

#1 Amp Up Your Hydration

Staying adequately hydrated during the cool winter months is one of the best (and easiest) things you can do for your skin. You may not be sweating as much, but the cool, dry air outdoors, coupled with the forced dry heat indoors, can suck all the moisture right out of your skin. Try to sip on a minimum of 7-8 glasses per day, and carry a water bottle with you at all times!

#2 Don’t Forget About SPF

If you thought SPF was only a summer skin necessity, think again! While there are lower levels of UVB in the winter, UVA rays (the rays that damage our skin and speed up skin aging) can penetrate (and damage) your skin year-round. And considering snow is highly reflective, this is especially true if you’re spending time outdoors in the snow! Just as you would in the summer, it’s a good idea to make SPF part of your daily skincare routine.

#3 Leave It to The Professionals

If you’ve been considering a facial treatment like a peel, laser, or micro-needling treatment, winter is the perfect time to do it. With less sun exposure, you reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. Plus, professional services can help stimulate collagen production, increase blood flow, and leave your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Regardless, regular facials are an amazing form of self-care!

#4 Be Gentle with Your Skin

While it may differ from person to person, it’s normal for your skin to be extra-sensitive during the cool winter months. You may notice skin symptoms such as increased redness or irritation, dryness, itchiness, and even cracks or rashes. While this is a normal response to windy weather and low humidity, try to be extra gentle with your skin. Avoid toxins and irritants (such as harsh detergents or fragrances), use mild or gentle skincare products (more oils and moisturizers, fewer acids), and wash your skin with care (using soft cloths and room temperature water).

#5 Revamp Your Winter Skincare Routine

Switching up your skincare routine from season to season is a good habit to get into! While this may look different for everyone, here are some cold-weather skincare suggestions:

Use a calming cleanser that won’t irritate your skin or strip away any oils.
If you currently moisturize once per day, consider moisturizing morning and night if your skin is extra dry.
Avoid extreme temperatures when you shower or wash your face — keep it room temp and mild!
Try a heavier moisturizer than usual if you’re experiencing cracked or flaky skin.
Invest in a humidifier — you can even add some essential oils to it!

#6 Eat Your Way to Glowing Skin

Aside from avoiding excess sugar and refined fats, there are many foods you can add to further enhance your skin glow!

Omega-rich fats like avocado and salmon are full of oils that stimulate collagen production and maintain skin hydration.
Water-rich foods like spinach, citrus, and berries help hydrate you from the inside out!
Vitamin A and C-rich foods like tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and mango can protect your skin from damage and help boost collagen production.

#7 Be Mindful of Dehydrating Drinks

Remember to sip smart this winter! Though cozy and tasty, drinks like coffee and alcohol are diuretics, meaning they dehydrate you even more than you already are! While you don’t have to give them up completely, try to monitor how much you’re drinking. There are so many tasty alcohol and caffeine swaps, too! Swap coffee for herbal tea or matcha, or try going booze-free with a buzzless botanical beverage.

#8 Give Your Lips Some Love

Chapped, dry lips? Give your lips some love this winter. Aside from staying hydrated, keep lip balm with you at all times. And choose something that’s moisturizing to help lock in moisture (even better if it has SPF in it). Oh, and be mindful if you’re a lip-licker — it may be exacerbating the problem!

#9 Don’t Forget About Your Hands and Feet

Your hands and feet are often an afterthought, but they’re in need of some winter wellness too! As a result of losing too much moisture, you may experience dry feet or hands, maybe even cracks or splits in the skin. The best thing you can do is frequently moisturize your skin — thick ingredients like coconut oil will work wonders. You can even try an overnight treatment with something ultra-nourishing like shea butter! And don’t forget to cover up! Protecting your hands and feet with socks, slippers, gloves, and mittens is a must.

#10 Treat Yourself to A Moisturizing Face Mask

Winding down the day with a moisturizing face mask is a great way to show your skin some love. Thick and rich ingredients like shea butter, petrolatum, and squalene are ideal (think: Hailey Bieber glazed donut skin thick!), as they will help form a protective layer over the skin and penetrate deep to moisturize. And don’t waste any leftovers — you can do the same for your whole body!

#11 Soak in the Moisture With a Bath

Aside from getting all the stress-relieving and therapeutic benefits of a bath, you’ll also soak in some skin benefits (literally). And not only are baths a great way to rehydrate your skin, but they’re also easy to modify for all your skin needs. If your skin is feeling inflamed or irritated, toss in some skin-soothing oatmeal and honey. If you’re looking to soften your skin, drizzle in some olive oil. Plus, you can never go wrong with Epsom salt! It’s great for soothing sore muscles, and considering it’s loaded with magnesium, it may even help support sleep!

#12 Avoid Over-Exfoliating

While exfoliation is key to removing dead skin cells, overdoing it during colder months can strip your skin of essential oils and worsen dryness or irritation. Limit exfoliating to once or twice a week, and opt for gentle, non-abrasive exfoliants like lactic acid or fruit enzymes to maintain your skin’s health and radiance.

#13 Wear Protective Clothing Outdoors

Your clothing can be a powerful shield against harsh winter weather. Invest in scarves, hats, and gloves made of soft, breathable materials to protect exposed skin from windburn and cold. Plus, breathable fabrics also prevent overheating, which can lead to sweat-induced irritation.

#14 Incorporate Antioxidants Into Your Routine

Give your skin an extra layer of defense by incorporating antioxidant-rich serums or creams into your skincare routine. Vitamin C, niacinamide, and green tea extract can help protect against environmental damage while promoting a glowing complexion. Beyond topical treatments, eating antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and dark chocolate can further combat free radicals from the inside out, reducing inflammation and enhancing your skin’s natural radiance.

#15 Add Collagen to Your Diet

Collagen is a key protein that keeps your skin firm and hydrated, but its production naturally declines as we age. During winter, support your skin from within by adding collagen-rich foods like bone broth, fish, and eggs to your diet. Alternatively, try a high-quality hydrolyzed collagen powder and mix it into your coffee, smoothies, or soups for an easy boost!

Skin Survival: Winter Edition

Maintaining glowing, radiant skin is possible — even in the cool harsh months of winter! By hydrating inside and out, minding your diet, and adding in some simple self-care tips, your skin will survive (and thrive) through the coldest season. If you’re experiencing increased skin irritation, redness, or just feeling extra dry, try these cold-weather skincare hacks. From at-home face masks to stress-relieving baths, there’s something for everyone!

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The Best 15 Foods For Glowing Skin

Lexy Parsons — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 15:00:29 +0000

Current beauty trends are all about aging gracefully, avoiding wrinkles, and achieving that dewy, glowing skin. And while there are tons of beauty products, spa treatments, and cosmetic procedures that claim to possess the anti-aging secrets, what if we could slow the aging process and support our skin the natural way? No quick fixes, no costly products, no time-consuming commitments. It sounds too good to be true, right?

Well, the truth is, supporting glowing skin starts in the kitchen! What do we mean by this? What we put in our body is just as important (and maybe even more) as what we put on it! Our everyday habits are important — including our diet, in a big way! From reducing skin aging and redness to naturally stimulating collagen production, your diet is a huge factor in how to get healthy, radiant skin. So, head to the kitchen! We’re bringing you the best foods for glowing skin with healthy skin tips to help your inner beauty shine.

RELATED: 30 Day Glowing Skin Challenge

What Causes Skin Aging?

Skin aging may be an inevitable part of growing older, but your diet and lifestyle can play a significant role in how fast (or slow) the aging process occurs. Lifestyle factors such as unprotected sun exposure (SPF should be your BFF), smoking or excessive drinking, lack of sleep, and excessive stress are common contributors to increased skin aging.

And of course, your diet plays a vital role too! In addition to incorporating foods for glowing skin — like those rich in antioxidants, high in water content, and loaded with vitamin C — avoiding processed and artificial ingredients, inflammatory foods, and excess sugar and caffeine are some of the best preventative skin tips for premature aging.

Can Your Diet Help Your Skin?

So, can your diet help your skin? To put it simply, yes! Think of your diet as skin food. When you eat a healthy skin diet rich in nutrients, you’re providing your body with the nourishment it needs to repair, rebuild, fight the aging process, and boost skin glow. And, who doesn’t want that?

Ok, but what should you eat?

Well, when it comes to food for glowing skin, strive to eat foods as close to nature as possible. The less processed, the better! Think: a variety of colorful fruits and veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, clean carbs, and of course, plenty of water! Hydration is the key ingredient in the fountain of youth. So, drink up! And, be sure to add some hydrating foods, like watermelon, cucumber, peaches, oranges, celery, and broth to your healthy skin diet too.

As for vitamins and minerals, there are certain skin-supporting nutrients you’ll want to add to your diet.

What Vitamins and Minerals Are Best For Healthy Skin?

Beyond eating a nutrient-dense diet, these vitamins and minerals can help boost skin glow — consider them your superfoods for skin!

Vitamin A

Benefits of vitamin A for glowing skin: A skin-supportive nutrient that stimulates skin regeneration and naturally boosts the production of collagen.

Found in foods such as: carrots, spinach, bell peppers, broccoli, sweet potato, butternut squash, and papaya.

Vitamin C

Benefits of vitamin C for glowing skin: Stimulates the production of collagen and acts as a powerful antioxidant to protect the skin from free radical damage.

Found in foods such as: pineapple, strawberries, citrus, kiwi, tomatoes, broccoli, and leafy greens.

Vitamin D

Benefits of vitamin D for glowing skin: Protects against the damaging effects of UV rays, stimulates cell growth and repair, and helps fight free radical damage.

Found in foods such as: egg yolks, mushrooms, salmon, tuna, and fortified foods such as yogurt, milk, and tofu

Vitamin E

Benefits of vitamin E for glowing skin: An antioxidant that helps to moisturize and heal the skin, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the skin barrier.

Found in foods such as: sunflower seeds, almonds, avocados, and leafy greens such as spinach and kale

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Benefits of omega-3s for glowing skin: Omega-3s help to increase skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and speed up skin healing.

Found in foods such as: avocados, chia seeds, hemp seeds, salmon, flax seeds, and walnuts.

Zinc

Benefits of zinc for glowing skin: Contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect against UV damage and accelerate skin repair.

Found in foods such as: oysters, squash and pumpkin seeds, beef, oatmeal, mushrooms, dark chocolate, and legumes.

Copper

Benefits of copper for glowing skin: Copper acts as an antioxidant to enhance skin healing while reducing signs of aging by increasing collagen production.

Found in foods such as: mushrooms, leafy greens, seafood, dark chocolate, spirulina, almonds, and cashews.

Selenium

Benefits of selenium for glowing skin: Selenium protects from free radical damage thanks to its antioxidant properties.

Found in foods such as: brazil nuts, tuna, oysters, mushrooms, oats, eggs, and sunflower seeds.

15 Delicious Foods For Glowing Skin

We’re breaking down how to get healthy skin, starting with your diet! Add these foods for glowing complexion to your recipe box, and get ready to radiate from the inside out.

Avocado

Naturally, we’re kicking off the best foods for healthy complexion with avocados. Avocados are rich in essential fatty acids, which help keep the outer skin layer hydrated and supple (and, therefore, glowing!) Plus, this skin food is full of antioxidants, which are anti-aging superstars. Antioxidants help fight free radical damage, preventing accelerated skin aging.

Walnuts

Walnuts are one of the best superfoods for skin — they’re loaded with Vitamin E, antioxidants, and Omega-3 Fatty essential fatty acids. These healthy fats help to lock in moisture, reduce inflammation (goodbye redness and acne), and strengthen the skin cell membrane. The rich levels of Vitamin E in these crunchy nuts can even help repair skin tissue and protect against the damaging effects of UV rays!

Salmon

Grill it, toss it on your salad, or eat it in your sushi. Regardless of how you enjoy it, just be sure to include salmon on your list of foods for glowing complexion! The Omega 3 fatty acids in salmon help repair damaged skin, reduce skin inflammation and redness, and prevent dry skin. Salmon also contains the skin nutrients Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and zinc!

Green Tea

Green tea may be known for its ability to support weight loss, but did you know this superfood has skin-supporting properties too? The polyphenols in Green Tea (specifically, EGCG) contain potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe the skin, calm inflammation, and protect against skin damage from UV rays and environmental toxins.

Berries

Fight premature aging and cell damage with these antioxidant powerhouses. Berries help boost skin glow thanks to their high levels of anthocyanins, a plant compound that helps protect against free radical damage and boost collagen production. These low sugar fruits make a great addition to your morning bowl of oatmeal, added on top of your yogurt bowl, or sprinkled over banana nice cream for dessert, making them a flavorful and healthy way to keep skin looking youthful.

Turmeric

Do you suffer from skin inflammation? Skin inflammation can manifest in many ways, appearing as acne, redness, and even burning or itchy skin. Luckily, turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory skin food that helps to soothe irritation — it can even help with acne scarring and skin pigmentation.

Add turmeric to your morning juice, sprinkle it on roasted veggies, or even wind down the evening with a calming golden milk latte.

Citrus

Citrus fruits (such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits) are packed with the glowing skin nutrient Vitamin C. Vitamin C is one of the most powerful skin-supporting antioxidants, helping to boost skin glow by reducing free radical damage, evening out skin tone, and reducing the appearance of blemishes.

Plus, Vitamin C helps keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay! Did you know Vitamin C is the precursor to collagen? This means collagen cannot be made without this skin superfood. So, squeeze that lemon into your glass of water and savor every last citrus drop.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds (along with watermelon and sunflower seeds) may be small, but they pack a mighty skin-supporting punch. Their high levels of zinc make them one of the best foods for glowing skin. Zinc is a mineral that helps maintain skin elasticity and speeds up skin cell repair, which is why this seed is a key contributor to skin radiance and rejuvenation!

Sweet Potato

The beta-carotene in sweet potatoes is what makes this clean carbohydrate one of our favorite foods for glowing complexion. Beta carotene is an antioxidant that turns into Vitamin A in our body, a skin-supporting nutrient that speeds up skin cell repair and stimulates skin turnover. This means the appearance of fresh (radiant) skin.

Cucumber

There’s a reason why most spas serve cooling cucumber water. This veggie is made up of 96% water, making it the most hydrating skin food. Its cooling and moisturizing properties help calm inflammation, while the silica found in cucumbers can help lighten and fade dark under-eye circles. A skin miracle!

Watercress

Though a less familiar leafy green, watercress is equally as important when it comes to superfoods for skin health. It’s loaded with folic acid, vitamins A and C, and powerful antioxidants that help prevent free radical damage. Add it to your omelet or egg bake, use it as the base for your salad, or mix it into pasta dishes!

Papaya

This tropical delight is a delicious way to load up on good-for-you skin nutrients! It’s full of nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, and K, B vitamins, antioxidants, and powerful enzymes. Enjoy it in a fresh fruit or breakfast bowl, freeze it for smoothies, or load it up with yogurt for a yummy papaya bowl!

Goji Berries

These small but mighty berries are the ultimate superfood for preventative skin health. Utilized in Chinese Medicine for years as a longevity food, goji berries are thought to revitalize the skin and support whole body health. Thanks to their skin-supporting nutrients (such as vitamin A, C, zinc, and antioxidants), goji berries make for a healthy addition to a balanced diet to support your skin from the inside out. Add them to your smoothies, mix them into your yogurt bowl or overnight oats, or add them to a warming cup of tea.

Cinnamon

Once you find out about its skin benefits, you’re going to want to sprinkle this sweet spice on everything! In addition to balancing blood sugar and reducing inflammation, cinnamon has been shown to boost collagen production and support healthy aging. It’s loaded with antioxidants, which help slow the aging process by fighting free radical damage! Add it to your coffee, smoothies, curry bowls, or baked goods.

Pomegranate

Loaded with anthocyanins, polyphenols, and vitamin C, pomegranates are one of those must-have superfoods for radiant skin! This powerful fruit has been shown to bust inflammation, reduce sun-induced age signs such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, stimulate collagen production, and even promote cell regeneration. Add pomegranate seeds as a topper for salads or smoothie bowls, or enjoy it plain!

Radiate from the Inside Out with a Healthy Skin Diet

Are you ready to let your inner radiance shine? Fight the aging clock and bring a healthy glow to your complexion with this healthy skin diet. These nutritious (and delicious) ingredients will have everyone asking what your skincare secret is — so spread the word! It all starts in the kitchen.

Now that you know the best food for glowing skin, sign up for FitOn PRO to gain access to delicious recipes and transform these foods for glowing skin into nourishing, yummy meals!

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The Best Green Skincare Products For All Skin Types

Lexy Parsons — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 19:07:30 +0000

We all want to slow down the aging clock, reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and acne, and boost our natural skin glow. But easier said than done, right? With so many products on the market, it can be hard to know what to choose! While this is true, there’s one thing we know for certain: not all skincare products are created equal! In case you didn’t know, the beauty industry can be ugly. The use of toxic ingredients and harmful chemicals is continuing to grow, and our health (and our skin) is paying the price.

For expert advice, we spoke with Cosmetic Acupuncturist Courtney Fletcher of Courtney Rose Acupuncture. Through the use of microneedling, herbal skincare treatments, whole-body acupuncture, and cosmetic acupuncture, Courtney’s philosophy is to address underlying conditions as well as problem areas, intending to support the natural aging process and heal the body from inside and out. “I’m overly picky about what I put on my skin but also get annoyed with the amount of time it takes to find a great product line you can trust. To save you time and trouble, I’m sharing my favorites from product lines you can trust; no need to read, go ahead and buy!”

No matter if you’re acne-prone or struggling with severely sensitive skin, we’ve got you covered with the best products (made with the best ingredients). No harmful ingredients, toxic chemicals, or unrecognizable labels! From sunscreens to serums, here are the best green skincare products for all your needs.

RELATED: 30-Day Glowing Skin Challenge

Green Skincare Products for Acne-Prone Skin

Do you experience hormonal breakouts? Or maybe suffer from red, irritated skin? These acne-prone products can help address the root cause of your issues (without causing further damage or irritation)! Formulated with gentle yet powerful ingredients — such as honey, green tea extract, and turmeric — these all-natural skin care products work to remove impurities and keep your skin clear for a more confident you!

Cleanser: 100% Pure — Pore Detox Herbal Cleanser

Gentle exfoliation does exist! Ingredients like dandelion, neem, and green clay help wash away impurities while still nourishing and protecting the skin. “I like to use this Pore Detox Herbal Cleanser as a gentle exfoliant 1-2 times per week,” says Fletcher. “It’s great for acne-prone or red skin because it contains an amazing botanical blend of dandelion, turmeric, neem, wheatgrass, and coneflower to clear heat. And when paired with rosemary, oregano, and tea tree to squash bacteria buildup, this little bottle is a dream come true. They’ve balanced this out with nourishing and restorative ingredients like lavender, green clay, and colloidal oatmeal to provide a product that is gentle, nourishing, and clearing.” It’s great for normal, oily, and combination skin types — prepare yourself for a skin-soothing clean!

Serum: Primally Pure Clarifying Serum

Glowing, radiant skin is on the horizon! The Clarifying Serum by Primally Pure is bursting with skin nutrition thanks to antioxidant-rich green tea and vitamin-rich Marula, and prickly pear seed oil. Formulated to address active breakouts, acne scarring, and sun damage, this botanical-based recipe is a triple threat — especially for acne-prone skin! Deeply restorative and highly effective to repair hyperpigmentation, brighten skin tone, and soothe inflammation. A true skin essential.

Sunscreen: Farmacy Green Defense SPF

This mineral-based, broad-spectrum SPF 30 by Farmacy is made with everything you’ll love and nothing you won’t. It’s free from synthetic fragrance to avoid toxins and prevent inflammation and infused with ingredients that support acne-prone skin, such as Moringa, Winter Cherry, and Beta Carotene. Finally, a way to protect your skin with a non-greasy formula!

The Best Natural Ingredients for Acne-Prone Skin:

Honey: powerful enzymes, antibacterial, antimicrobial properties for inflammation and irritation.

Tea Tree Essential Oil: antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial properties for inflammation, redness, irritation; works as a powerful spot treatment.

Green Tea Extract: contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that soothe redness and irritation while.

Aloe Vera: soothes and calms skin for irritation, inflammation, and redness.

Activated Charcoal: draws out bacteria, dirt, and oil to reduce and prevent breakouts.

Turmeric: antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for redness, irritation, and breakouts.

Green Skincare Products for Sensitive Skin

Does your skin react to even the slightest change (whether it’s the environment, ingredients, lifestyle factors… you name it)? Good news, these sensitive-type skincare products are for you. Easily irritated skin just requires a little extra mindfulness and TLC. The trick to keeping your skin calm, cool, and collected? Avoid any harsh or fragrant ingredients (such as acids or highly fragrant botanicals), and use all-natural products made with ingredients that have a calming, soothing effect — such as aloe vera, calendula, and sunflower seed oil.

Cleanser: Wild Grace Apothecary Rosy Cheeks Exfoliating Mask

“One of my favorite small-batch businesses hands down is Wild Grace Apothecary,” says Fletcher. “Katie’s collection is wildcrafted, rooted in TCM, Ayurveda, and western herbalism, and rotates seasonally. Seriously though, what more could you want?? Her entire collection is amazing, but I’ve recently become obsessed with her Rosy Cheeks Exfoliating Mask for a number of reasons. First and foremost, because it is 100% plants!”.

“This mask comes in a powdered form so that it does not need to contain any preservative or binding agents; it can be mixed with water or one of her amazing hydrosols to create the consistency desired. It’s high in vitamin C from the rose hips and hibiscus brightening the complexion and is paired with the healing properties of Yarrow, which really creates a very balanced product that is great for sensitive, dry, damaged, combination, and overactive skin. And in case all of that didn’t convince you, then buy it for the smell. It’s next-level aromatherapy.” Yep. We’re convinced.

Treatment: Cocokind Revitalizing Eye Cream

Dark circles and under-eye bags — we’ve all been there. And if your skin is ultra-sensitive, finding ways to soothe the inflammation without drawing more attention to the area can be extra tricky. Luckily, this Cocokind Revitalizing Eye Cream was designed to cool and soothe the skin while enhancing under-eye hydration and puffy, sagging skin. Enriched with Marula oil, Hibiscus, Oat extract, and Persian Silk Tree to depuff and brighten your eyes in an easy-to-apply skin-soothing treatment!

The Best Natural Ingredients for Sensitive Skin:

Calendula: contains antioxidants, carotenoids, fatty acids, and flavonoids & may promote collagen synthesis, support healing, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Aloe vera: rich in B Vitamins, antioxidants, enzymes, and anti-inflammatory properties to promote skin healing and soothe irritation.

Yarrow: rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties to soothe redness and irritation.

Chamomile: rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and anti-inflammatory properties that protect and soothe the skin for redness and sensitivity.

Sunflower oil: rich in fatty acids, vitamin E and contains little fragrance to reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier.

Green Skincare Products for Aging Skin

If you’re looking to slow down skin aging and reduce fine lines and wrinkles (the all-natural way), these products are for you! Made with collagen-stimulating and antioxidant-rich ingredients — such as sea buckthorn oil, pomegranate extract, and Vitamin C — treat your skin to botanical-rich green skincare products that will nourish and repair from the inside out.

Serum: Living Libations Sea Buckthorn Serum

Nicknamed the “best skin ever” serum, because this anti-aging Sea Buckthorn Serum really does give you the best skin ever. Made with nourishing plant-based nutrients like sea buckthorn, tamanu oil, and essential oils of lavender and vetiver for a nutrient-rich dose of holistic skin healing. This beautifully crafted serum glides on silky smooth and penetrates deep into your skin without leaving behind a greasy texture or shine.

Sunscreen: Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral 30 SPF

Clinically proven to improve skin hydration in a non-greasy formula safe for sensitive and aging skin. Plant-based (and reef-safe!) ingredients like zinc oxide protect the outer skin barrier, while ingredients like squalene and water lily work to hydrate the skin and soothe irritation. This lightweight formula works perfectly under makeup and should be a summer staple to protect against UV damage!

Treatment: OSEA Advanced Protection Cream

This deeply restorative Advanced Protection Cream by OSEA was formulated to moisturize and plump the skin, helping to hydrate and repair without weighing skin down. Made with nourishing botanicals like safflower seed oil, squalene, seaweed, jojoba, and chamomile for a toxin-free skin-firming solution. Use morning and night for the ultimate glow-up!

The Best Natural Ingredients for Aging Skin:

Pomegranate Extract: stimulates collagen production and skin healing, protects against UV damage, rich in polyphenols and antioxidants.

Green Tea: rich in antioxidants to repair and regenerate skin.

Sea Buckthorn Oil: rich in antioxidants that deeply nourish and repair the skin while reducing inflammation and signs of stress.

Vitamin C: stimulates collagen production and supports cell turnover.

Rosehip Oil: rich in Vitamin C to stimulate collagen, even skin tone, reduce inflammation, and protect against damage.

Green Skincare Products for All Skin Types

Your skin is unique — sometimes it’s hard to confine yourself to one category! Maybe your skin is somewhere between oily and dry. Or, maybe you experience sporadic breakouts depending on the weather, stress levels, or where you’re at in your cycle. Whatever the case, these products, and skincare ingredients are generally good for all skin types. They’re not too drying or moisturizIng, they’re generally indicated for sensitive skin (but aren’t formulated specifically toward that skin issue), and they contain nourishing nutrients that promote skin repair for healthy aging. If you’re not struggling with one specific concern, think of these products as your baseline! They’re pretty much good for all the things.

Serum: Evan Healy Sanctuary Serum

Just like it sounds, this Sanctuary Serum by Evan Healy feels like true skin luxury. It’s lightweight yet moisturizing, good for dull, mature, and stressed skin, and made with pure botanicals and nutrients (like rose, pomegranate, sea buckthorn, and calendula). Best of all? For an organic and nutrient-rich formula, it’s extremely affordable. You only need a few drops, so it will last you, too! Use this as your daily skin nourishment!

Sunscreen: Coola Facial SPF

If you ask me, SPF is the single most important skincare essential. But, it can be hard to find a non-toxic SPF that doesn’t feel thick, sticky, and smothering. Enter: Coola’s Facial SPF — my favorite product on the market! It’s lightweight, formulated with protective plant-based ingredients, and even layers perfectly under makeup! Infused with healing ingredients like aloe and meadowfoam, it’s perfect for all skin types and deserves a permanent spot in your medicine cabinet.

Cleanser: Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser

Soothe, replenish, soften, and moisturize with this good-for-all-skin types Oil to Milk Cleanser. Made with sunflower seed, grapeseed, and oat for a nourishing and gentle cleanse that removes dirt while protecting the skin barrier (hint: a cleanser that won’t strip your skin of moisture!). With over 2,000 nearly 5-star reviews, you won’t be disappointed. Did we mention it’s less than $20?

Product Spotlight: Dr. Sebaa’s Elixir Serum

A special product spotlight to keep on your radar: Dr. Sebaa’s Elixir Serum. This small-batch skincare product is only available twice per year (seasonally, in Spring and Winter). And though it’s sold out for the season, it’s worth the mention!

“The all-in-one for every one product! You have to catch this one while you can as there is only one batch released for the Spring/Summer collection and one for the Fall/Winter collection, but I promise the hunt is well worth it,” says Fletcher. “Each season, Dr. Sebaa makes little tweaks to her formula, making each batch truly one of a kind. What I love most (besides the heavenly scents) is that this product can be incorporated with other products or is excellent as a stand-alone, no layering needed. Plus, it can be used night and day. I personally use it at the end of all of my facials to seal in all the products used and allow for one last deep, mindful inhale as aromatherapy and at home for my facial Gua Sha routine.”

The Best Natural Ingredients for All Skin Types:

Turmeric: rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and nutrients that repair skin damage, soothe inflammation and brighten the complexion

Squalane: natural emollient that locks in moisture, strengthens the skin barrier and improves skin texture and damage.

Honey: enhances skin tone and texture while reducing inflammation for a brightening effect.

Vitamin C: stimulates collagen production and supports cell turnover.

Hyaluronic Acid: rich in nutrients that moisturize the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance skin texture.

Green Skincare Products for Dull Skin

Stress, natural skin aging, and harsh products can dull your shine. But, with a little know-how, the right products can help you revive your skin and restore your inner radiance! Think of these products as food for your skin. Whether your skin is dehydrated, lacking nourishment, or just needing a little extra love, here are the must-have products to add to your beauty routine.

Serum: Maelove Glowmaker Serum

The name says it all — this all-natural Maelove Vitamin C Serum is everything you need for a radiant glow! Vitamin C is largely responsible for the powerful effects of this superstar skin serum, though hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, and aloe are nourishing ingredients that deserve a skincare spotlight. It’s lightweight, affordable, and comes with over 14,000 nearly 5-star reviews! Add this to your skincare shopping cart ASAP.

Treatment: YINA — Essential Mist

Formulated to address stress, fatigue, and dehydration, this botanical-rich formula is a dream come true for dull skin. “I fell in love with YINA because of their background in East Asian/ Traditional Chinese Medicine,” says Fletcher. “YINA has created a beautiful product line with serums that can be used by anyone and rotated seasonally or used year-round specifically for a certain concern.”

“While I love everything they have to offer (and use their whole line in my cosmetic acupuncture practice) I want to highlight their toner The Essential Mist. It contains adaptogens, prebiotics, and antioxidants, which makes it perfect for any skin type and almost impossible to compete with any other toner. Adaptogens tremella and cordyceps work synergistically to tonify both Yin and Yang and, in Chinese Medicine, enter the lungs, which regulate and govern the skin. Herbs like white tea, lotus, rose, and helichrysum act to nourish, restore and hydrate and create a beautiful aroma that every single one of my patients looks forward to.” If you’re looking for a natural recipe for skin glow, hydration, and nourishment, this is for you!

Sunscreen: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40

Made with hyaluronic acid, sunflower seed oil, and sea lavender to gently hydrate and nourish the skin in a lightweight formula. Choose from two different shades for a natural sun-kissed glow! If you’re looking to enhance your skin shine while helping your skin breathe, Supergoop! SPF 40 may be the perfect bronzer alternative. With nearly 5,000 4-5 star reviews, it’s safe to say this product is trustworthy and effective!

The Best Natural Ingredients for Dull Skin Types

Papaya: rich in enzymes and anti-inflammatory properties that brighten the complexion, reduce inflammation, and remove dead skin cells.

Honey: enhances skin tone and texture while reducing inflammation for a brightening effect.

Vitamin C: stimulates collagen production and supports cell turnover.

Tremella: deeply hydrating to plump, moisturize, and enhance texture.

Carrot Seed Extract: rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants that promote rejuvenation and protect against UV damage.

Squalane: rich in fatty acids, carotenoids, and antioxidants to brighten the complexion and stimulate skin regeneration.

Natural Beauty Products to Heal Your Skin From the Inside Out

No matter your skin concern, these all-natural, botanical-rich skincare products can help restore, revive, and repair your skin for a healthier, more radiant you. We all have different beauty concerns to address, and while all skin is beautiful, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to feel confident in your skin! So go ahead, treat yourself! With these green beauty skincare products, say goodbye to toxins and hello to the ultimate glow-up.

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Is Gua Sha Really The Secret to Youthful Skin? We Tried it For 7 Days & Here’s What Happened

Dominique Michelle Astorino — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 17:15:30 +0000

One of the positives to come out of years of quarantining was learning how to do so many beauty, wellness, and self-care practices at home. And we’re exploring self-care and wellness practices from many other cultures; one that’s seeing huge popularity now is that of Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM. Within this world of herbs, acupuncture, and more comes a wonderful beauty and health treatment known as gua sha. Ahead, what it is, why you’ll want to try it, and how to get started!

What is Gua Sha?

Ancient Chinese practice, dating back to the paleolithic age (so, technically, gua sha is Paleo?!).

As a cornerstone of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), it was used as a medical treatment before a beauty treatment. It essentially translates to ‘scraping’ in English — the scraping of skin to move inflammation, or stagnant qi (energy). Think of it as a massage tool of sorts.

“Gua Sha is a treatment that was traditionally used in China to treat musculoskeletal disorders, and to reduce pain and stagnation in the body,” says Melanie Zenor, gua sha practitioner, owner of The Zen Wellness, and doctoral student of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in San Diego, CA. “The aim of this treatment is to disperse Qi in the body, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation.”

But there can be some benefits in terms of a more aesthetic application, too. Think: beauty treatment. “Today, this practice is often used as a beauty treatment,” says Zenor. “Gua Sha means ‘to scrape,’ and the tool is used to scrape the skin — either to relieve pain or for aesthetic purposes for the face.”

The Benefits of Gua Sha

Facial massage, in general, can provide a host of benefits, and the practice of gua sha specifically has its own unique ones as well. Medically, says Zenor, “In treatments, Gua Sha is used to improve circulation, and decrease muscle pain and tension.” But when it comes to beauty, this practice can help to “depuff the skin, reduce redness, improve circulation, help reduce acne, contour the face, and minimize fine lines and wrinkles.” Sounds pretty amazing, right?

How to Use Gua Sha

Today, we can use Gua Sha at home whenever we’d like — and that’s just what I did! A few years ago, I took some online classes that shared facial exercises and sculpting that gave me a loose knowledge, but Zenor taught me the more traditional process.

Before we get to specifics, here are her general tips:

When using the gua sha on your face, always work in an upward motion, with light pressure and short strokes.
Be extremely mindful of pressure; do not use too much pressure in the face! Some redness is normal during and after use, but bruising is possible with use of too much pressure.
Always clean your tool before and between uses with isopropyl alcohol.
For facial gua sha, avoid sharing this tool with others.

You’ll need a facial oil or serum to help the stone glide across your face; I used a nourishing, oily (but not greasy!) serum from Dr. Loretta (the cult favorite Intense Replenishing Serum). I got the added benefit of massaging the skincare into my face while also getting the independent benefits of gua sha.

As for what exactly you’re doing with the stone? The best way to explain the how-to process, IMO, is visually. This video from Gothamista is the best one I’ve found — straightforward, simple, and easy to follow. The primary areas you’ll focus on are the forehead, cheekbones, jaw bones, and neck.

Tips on Choosing a Gua Sha Tool

Zenor has some recommendations when it comes to choosing the right tool for your own gua sha practice.

“For beauty treatments, jade or rose quartz are the best two options,” she says. “Jade is best for skin that is more prone to redness and acne, while rose quartz is best for more mature skin as it boosts circulation and collagen production to help decrease fine lines.”

You can also use a tool for gua sha on other parts of the body. “For any body treatments, traditionally a tool made of Water buffalo horn is used, but there are now a variety of materials that can be found,” she says. “I would suggest avoiding the usage of plastic gua sha for any type, but stainless steel is a good option.”

Our Top Favorite Gua Sha Tools

I use two at home: a jade gua sha (given to me by Zenor after she gave me my first gua sha facial!) and a snow quartz gua sha from Floramye. My jade tool is quite similar to this one on Sephora, but it doesn’t need to be expensive! In fact, you can find one for about $5 on Amazon. Just be sure it’s real jade or rose quartz, as she recommended. The lopsided V-shape (with one arm a bit longer than the other) is the standard shape and, realistically, the only one you need to get started.

My 1 Week Gua Sha Experience

Admittedly, I’ve done gua sha on and off for a few years now, but it’s been a long time since I’ve been consistent with my routine!

This week of committing to a daily practice was beneficial for my face and mind. The extra minutes carved out for some facial massage and quiet time created a wonderful mental space for more pause and reprieve from the business of life.

To boot, my face is depuffed, my skin feels healthy and vibrant, and as the teens say on TikTok, my jawline is looking pretty “snatched.” This practice definitely helped to create more of a sculpted appearance (probably thanks to decreased puffiness!), which was a total confidence booster.

In general, it feels wonderful to take better care of my skin. It’s an act of love to your body (and your largest organ), and emotionally it’s nice to do something that’s just for you. It doesn’t have to cost a ton of money or take a ton of time — a five-dollar jade stone, a little bit of moisturizer or oil, and a few minutes, and I was on my way to feeling a little better each day.

The Takeaway

Given the benefits of facial massage and skin care, plus the documented benefits of gua sha itself, there’s no reason to not try this ancient self-care practice. There is such a low barrier to entry, and you’ll be glowing in a matter of days — you have to check this out!

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