Pop quiz: What are the two most common ingredients that make up a good moisturizer? Water and oil. This answer may seem deceptively simple, but let's explore it a little further.

Skin 101

The topmost layer of our skin, called the stratum corneum, needs to be made up of at least 10% water to look and feel healthy — though 20-30% is ideal. But water, as we know, evaporates easily. That’s where other ingredients like emollients, humectants and occlusives come in. Often made from oil, these ingredients act as a barrier or sealant to lock moisture in the cells to stop water from evaporating. And a well-moisturized stratum corneum can soak up to six times its weight in water, nicely plumping the skin. Water also interacts with enzymes to help skin shed dead cells in an orderly way. Without water, dead cells pile up on the skin, making it red, chapped and rough. Skin that’s not properly moisturized can develop cracks and become itchy, scaly and even painful. So, moisturizing is a must after your daily skin cleansing routine, but how do you know which kind best suits your skin type? Let’s break it down into two categories of moisturizers — gels and creams — and weigh their pros and cons.

Gel Moisturizers | Cream Moisturizers | Dry Skin | Oily Skin | Combination Skin | Sensitive Skin | Normal Skin 

What Are Gel Moisturizers?

Facial gel moisturizers are lightweight and water-based (and sometimes oil-free … more on that later). They make a nice, smooth base for makeup and feel cool and refreshing when applied to the skin. Absorbent with a non-greasy texture, gel moisturizers are perfect for oily or combination complexions that don’t necessarily need any more oil added topically. If your skin is prone to dehydration, the humectant properties of gel moisturizers make them ideal — they draw water from the surrounding air as well as pulling moisture from deeper down in the skin itself, aka the dermis layer. 

What Are Cream Moisturizers?

Thick and oil-based in composition, creams are intensely hydrating and seal in moisture better and with longer-lasting effect than gels. They can leave oil residue, which is not ideal if your skin already skews oily. Creams are often also enhanced with nourishing, emollient ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, which soothes and softens rough, dry skin. This can be especially important if you live in a place with long, cold winters.

What’s The Right Moisturizer For Your Skin Type? 

Dry

If you have parched skin, oil-free facial gels are probably not your best bet. As mentioned above, they don’t form as effective a barrier to moisture loss as creams do. Look instead for nourishing creams with luxurious emollients, like shea butter, that make your skin feel smoother. A good option for daytime is the Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40. Formulated with larch tree, a moisturizing ingredient that shields skin from dehydration and antioxidant-rich lilikoi seed oil, this SPF and moisturizer combo protects and improves the appearance of dry skin in one step.

Another great product for dry skin is the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, which uses coconut water, coconut oil and shea butter to add moisture. A customer, Diana, reviewed it on the website saying: “The coconut moisturizer is amazing … my skin looks great and the fine lines are really hard to see. Love, love, love this product line.”

Oily

While cream moisturizers are perfect for dry skin, they aren’t necessarily the best pick for oilier complexions. Light facial gel moisturizers are better options for skin that is on the oily side, and a good all-over choice is the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator. This vegan gel-cream contains Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex, a blend of hyaluronic acid and marshmallow root that intensely hydrates and preserves moisture in the skin. This formula is also made with plant sugars that optimize the skin’s moisture reserve. Another gel moisturizer to try is the dewy, lightweight Mangosteen Gel Moisturizer. It melts into your skin, imbuing it with ingredients like mangosteen fruit extract and pore-minimizing red clover flower extract.

A cup of tea is a perfect pick-me-up in the afternoon but did you know it’s also a great pick-me-up for your skin? From fighting free radicals to reducing the appearance of fine lines and dissolving dead skin cells, tea has become a popular skin care ingredient. Read on to find out whether this ancient elixir is your skin’s cup of tea. 

A Brief History Of Tea 

The story of tea begins in China in 2737 BCE. According to legend, Chinese emperor and renowned herbalist, Shen Nung, was sitting beneath a tree when some leaves from the tree blew into water that was being boiled for drinking. He decided to try the infusion that had accidentally been created. The tree was a Camellia sinensis, and the resulting drink was what we now call tea.

All traditional teas are still made from the leaves and buds of different varieties of the Camellia sinensis plant — originally from the borderlands of northern Burma and southwestern China. The difference between teas lies in how they are processed — whether they are fermented or not, for instance — and this determines their oxidation levels. Green teas are not oxidized at all, while black teas are very oxidized. In terms of beauty benefits, green tea and matcha are very poplular, but black tea, white tea and kombucha are also potent allies for your skin.

What Are The Benefits Of Tea For Skin?

Tea has bioactives that have been scientifically proven to hydrate skin and protect it from aging and environmental harm. Antioxidant tea polysaccharides fight free radicals and absorb and retain moisture. Tea polyphenols protect skin by absorbing ultraviolet radiation and diverting it from doing epidermal damage. Polyphenols dive deep into the skin, putting up roadblocks around destructive enzymes that work against the skin’s “body-building” collagen and elastin. They protect your skin’s hydration by boosting hyaluronic acid and their anti-inflammatory activities improve microcirculation. So we've established that tea is your skin’s best friend, now we'll spill the tea on which blends will help you!

Green Tea

A perfect accompaniment to sushi, green tea is grown mostly in Japan. Green tea leaves are harvested, withered and steamed so that they stay green and unoxidized. There is an abundance of good things for the skin in this type of tea, especially EGCG, a polyphonic compound that is a powerhouse for the skin. It is known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It protects against the redness that UVB rays produce and is being studied for its role in healing wounds and lessening scarring. EGCG also has a remarkable ability to get inside the skin and stay there, mostly in the stratum corneum, where it actively moisturizes and smooths skin roughness and wrinkles.

Matcha Tea

Another Japanese export, matcha tea is green in color, but grown differently from regular green tea. About a month before harvesting, it is covered from direct sunlight to increase chlorophyll and amino acid levels. Intensely nourishing matcha tea powder is regenerative for tired, damaged skin that is low on oxygen. It also fights inflammation and protects skin from harmful free radicals.

White Tea

Young tea buds and leaves are harvested only once a year in early spring to make white teas like Bai Mu Dan (White Peony) and Yin Zhen Bai Hao (Silver Needle). The leaves and buds are minimally processed — not oxidized or rolled — which means that nothing has been bruised or twisted to damage cell walls and release the plant’s juices. As well as having strong anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, white tea extracts in skin care products are believed to boost hyaluronic acid action for a plumper, more hydrated-looking complexion.

Black Tea

Black tea, like pu’er from China’s Yunnan province, is the most oxidized of the teas because it is produced from leaves that are harvested, dried, rolled, ground and fermented. Black tea extracts are new to the skin care game and their tannins appear to protect skin from environmental damage as well as perform anti-bacterial, nourishing and hydrating functions. Other teas do that as well but black tea has one feature the others don’t: caffeine. Caffeine in skin creams stimulates microcirculation and helps reduce the look of puffiness under the eyes.

Kombucha

A by-product of black tea, kombucha is produced by fermenting black tea with sugar, yeast and bacteria. As a beverage, probiotic kombucha builds an ideal bacterial environment in the gut that aids digestion. And it can do something similar for your skin. According to dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, kombucha “… is excellent for balancing the skin’s microbiome by promoting a healthy ratio of good bacteria.” This is great if you are prone to acne or rosacea. Kombucha is also a natural exfoliant and antioxidant.

Darjeeling Tea 

Often referred to as the “Champagne of teas,” true Darjeeling is grown exclusively in select tea plantations at the foothills of the Himalayas spread across the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It is said that this tea grows at the highest elevation of all teas and that it is the altitude that creates an ideal environment for the tea plant, giving these teas a unique flavor and aroma. The natural antioxidant properties found in Darjeeling tea can promote healthy skin, while the polyphenols are known to combat inflammation.

Pineapple Tea

One more tea that is making its name in the beauty world is pineapple tea! It is made by boiling pineapple rinds, which extracts an enzyme called bromelain that is very helpful for digestion, but also has exfoliating properties for the skin — which makes pineapple tea a rising beauty star on TikTok. Bromelain dissolves the proteins that bind together dead skin cells with minimal irritation for clear, radiant skin. If you’re looking for the benefits of bromelain, our Pineapple Refining Tonique is where you’ll find them.

Tea For Different Skin Types

Dry skin

Tea-infused products in your daily beauty routine can really up your skin’s game, and there seems to be a type of tea for every type of problem. Those with dry skin that is sensitive to pollution, cigarette smoke and the sun’s UVA and UVB rays should look to beauty products with extracts of hydrating green tea, white tea and oxygen-revitalizing matcha tea.

Oily Skin

Oily skin that is prone to acne will respond well to products with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory extracts of matcha, kombucha or white tea that detox the skin. Or try green tea, which is known to reduce the production of sebum.

Mature Skin 

Mature skin can benefit most from how black tea can plump the look of skin and green tea retains moisture. White tea will also gently plump and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Any of these varieties will suit your skin to a "tea."

It’s no secret that collagen is a celebrated ingredient, essential for maintaining a youthful-looking complexion. But as we age, we experience a drop in collagen synthesis, leading to the development of sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. It’s no wonder collagen-boosting products have become all the rage. Today, you can find collagen in both topical skin care and oral supplements — but which is more effective?

We’ll deep dive into the differences between oral collagen supplements and topical collagen in skin care, how topical peptides come into play, and what you can expect from collagen skin care.

Topical Collagen | Peptides | Oral Collagen | Topical Collagen Vs Oral Collagen | Combining Topical Collagen, Peptides & Oral Supplements | Other Natural Ways To Boost Collagen

Topical Collagen In Skin Care: Does It Work?

Collagen is often termed as the skin’s mortar (fun fact: its name comes from the Greek word, “kolla,” meaning glue). This structural protein binds our cells and tissues together, helping them retain their strength and elasticity. Unfortunately, the synthesis of collagen diminishes over time, leading to the emergence of sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. This is where topical collagen steps in. 

You’ll find topical collagen in creams, serums and targeted treatments, aiming to improve skin elasticity and strength. Although collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin, they do have water-binding properties. Dendy Engelman, M.D. states that topical collagen creams undeniably “hydrate the skin,” which in turn minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles. This hydration also leaves the skin smoother and more supple-looking.

If you're looking for an additional ingredient to work together with topical collagen, we recommend topical peptides. Let’s unpack this potent active next.

Can Topical Peptides Improve The Skin’s Appearance?

Thanks to their smaller molecular size, topical peptides are more easily absorbed than collagen molecules and help to visibly revitalize the skin’s appearance. Like collagen, peptides are a form of protein, albeit smaller versions of protein. When topical peptides reach the dermis, they provide the skin’s fibroblasts with the building blocks they need to produce new collagen. By bolstering the skin's collagen levels, peptides can improve the look of skin elasticity to enhance skin texture and reduce the look of wrinkles. As a result, many skin care products add topical peptides into their formulas as well.

Our Product Support Team here at Eminence Organic Skin Care explains the role of peptides in skin care:

“A peptide is a molecule consisting of smaller chains of amino acids making them more easily absorbed by the skin. There are various benefits that peptides provide to visibly revitalize the skin and different peptides work on the skin in different ways. Some peptides trigger the synthesis of collagen and elastin, the structural proteins responsible for skin tone and texture. Increasing these proteins can give aging skin increased elasticity and suppleness.”

Now that we’ve explored both topical collagen and topical peptide options, a different approach you can take is oral collagen supplements. But do oral collagen supplements actually work?

Will Ingesting Oral Collagen Improve The Look Of Skin?

Oral collagen is another way to add this essential protein to your beauty routine. Liquid collagen is hydrolyzed — it’s been broken down into peptides that are small enough to be digested and absorbed. 

According to NCBI, “Oral intake of collagen enhances the moisture content of the skin, especially the stratum corundum, as well as the elasticity of the skin, reducing wrinkling and roughness.” Beyond skin care, oral collagen supplements are also beneficial for hair, nails and joint health. They promote healthy digestion, exercise recovery and even more for your body’s overall wellness.

Now let's debunk a common myth! Oral collagen is not a magic ingredient for immediate results. The results from oral collagen take time and may vary by individual. It’s best to talk to your physician before introducing collagen supplements into your diet.

Topical Collagen Vs Oral Collagen: What Experts Say

What do the experts say? Jeannette Graf, MD tells Byrdie that putting collagen on your skin provides moisturizing benefits and makes the skin feel softer and smoother. Marie Hayag, MD, adds that it’s the intentional layering, or cocktailing, of ingredients that work well together (e.g., topical collagen and topical peptides). 

Prevention Magazine makes the case for combining all three elements together and integrating oral supplements into a skin care regimen with topical collagen and peptides, saying: “It’s the mincing of collagen into very particular small chains of amino acids and peptides that holds the secret to youthful skin.” Dermatologist Doris Day agrees, saying “supplements are here to stay” and that they have a definite place in a skin care routine, alongside a good diet, sun protection and moisturizer. The New York Times also supports ingestible collagen, saying: “Studies show that taking collagen supplements for several months can improve skin elasticity (i.e., wrinkles and roughness) as well as signs of aging.”

Combining Topical Collagen, Peptides & Oral Supplements

The best way to improve the look and feel of your skin could be to combine all three types of collagen. Topical collagen, peptides and oral collagen often work synergistically to support the skin’s health. While topical collagen provides more immediate skin-smoothing results, topical peptides and oral collagen work overtime to improve the look of elasticity in the skin. The result: A firmer, smoother, bouncier-looking complexion. 

Every time a pimple pops up on your face, we know what you’re thinking: This is war. But it’s actually after you’ve conquered the enemy (with your arsenal of skin care products) that the battle truly begins. Eliminating these short-lived blemishes often leaves long-lasting acne scars which can be the most disheartening part of clearing away pimples. Read on to find out how to get rid of the look of acne scars and reduce the appearance of dark spots from acne.

What Are Acne Scars?

First of all, what exactly are acne scars and why do they mark the skin? Dermatologist Dr. Lily Talakoub explains that acne scarring occurs when “the skin displays an inflammatory response to previous acne (whiteheads, cysts, nodules, etc.) and physical intervention such as picking or popping.” Acne scars can occur in different forms and it’s not unusual to suffer from multiple types of scars.  

The Most Common Types Of Acne Scars

Acne scars typically fall into two primary categories, with a third type — the raised keloid scar — appearing less commonly. The first category includes dark acne spots, often left behind as pigmented reminders of past breakouts. The second type includes depressed acne scars, which are indentations on the skin. These come in different shapes: rolling scars with a wavy appearance, ice pick scars that are deep and narrow, and boxcar scars with wider, more pronounced edges. Let's unpack this more.

Dark Acne Spots 

Dark acne spots, often called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), are flat spots of darker skin that stay after an acne lesion has healed. Dark acne spots tend to form when the skin's natural healing process triggers the production of excess melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) in response to inflammation. The discoloration can range in color from pink to red, brown or black, depending on your skin tone and the depth of the discoloration. The duration these spots remain visible can vary widely, from a few weeks to several months or even longer. PIH can develop in all skin types, but it tends to be more severe and longer-lasting for people with medium to dark complexions, according to Very Well Health.

Depressed Acne Scars Such As Rolling, Ice Pick & Boxcar Scars 

Indented scars are caused when inflammation occurs in acne-damaged skin tissue. The lack of collagen causes the scar tissue to sink into the skin, resulting in textured scars. Ice pick scars are in the shape of a point and boxcar scars appear with a wider base. Rolling scars, on the other hand, are shallower and softer to the touch. 

Fortunately, we have several products that help get rid of the look of acne scars. The Acne Advanced Treatment System, Arctic Berry Peel & Peptide Illuminating System and our Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum are all skin care lifesavers that can help the appearance of different types of acne scars, including dark spots and depressed acne scars. Keep reading to find out how to use them.

Celebrities have access to the newest and best beauty and skin care products out there. Plus, they work closely with some of the most elite makeup artists and estheticians in the biz to keep their skin looking camera ready. With the multitude of products available to them, it’s a huge compliment when these stars endorse Eminence Organic Skin Care products and share them with their fans. We’re excited to let you in on some of their favorites! 

1. Issa Rae

You might know her from Insecure, the television show she created and starred in. Or maybe you saw her embody “President Barbie” in a little summer blockbuster movie you may have heard of. Regardless of where you first discovered Issa Rae, she is now a mega star and Vogue.com agrees. They asked her to share her beauty secrets to help the rest of us mere mortals achieve some of the glow that she emits onscreen, including using the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum. You can watch her talk through her routine on YouTube here. 

2. Jeremy Allen White

For his role as Carmy Berzatto in The Bear, Jeremy Allen White undergoes some pretty major transformations in the makeup chair. Even his own tattoos are completely concealed, only to be temporarily replaced by his character’s extensive ink. And the work doesn’t stop there. His makeup artist Ignacia Soto-Aguilar tells NewBeauty: “A solid skin care regimen is crucial to minimize scene interruptions [for touch-ups].” And since a lot of his scenes move between the inside of a hot, steamy kitchen and outside in the harsh, dry, cold Chicago winter, it’s important to keep the skin as healthy as possible. Part of the routine for keeping Carmy’s skin glowing is the Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream. According to Soto-Aguilar, Jeremy loves the results so much that he now follows the same routine at home.

Are you looking for a luxurious facial treatment that you can do between your visits to the spa Facial steaming is a simple way to pamper your skin in the comfort of your own bathroom. Read on to find out what products you’ll need to do it safely and effectively with minimal cost or equipment to achieve maximum skin glow.

What Is Facial Steaming?

While some concepts in the skin care world are complex, facial steaming is quite simple. This classic treatment allows steam from hot water to make contact with the skin and provide certain benefits, including cleansing, releasing trapped sebum, hydrating, promoting circulation and helping the skin absorb skin care products more deeply. If you’ve ever placed a warm, moist towel on your face, spent time in a steam room at the gym or taken a long, hot shower, you know what we’re talking about. Bonus: it’s a skin care ritual that can easily be performed at home.

The first purpose-built facial steamers date back to the early 1900s, but the use of steam itself as a method of relaxing and cleansing the body can be traced back to the Ancient Greeks and Romans. These days, there are a lot of facial steamers on the market, but you can also DIY at home with a big bowl or sink of warm water and a towel.

Benefits Of Facial Steaming

As mentioned, there are a number of ways that steam applied to the skin on your face can benefit the health and condition of your complexion. It can also help with other issues, including sinus congestion and stress. We’ll explain some of the benefits here:

Cleanses

Steaming is an excellent option for removing buildup, especially if a deeper cleanse is needed. It lifts dirt and impurities from the skin, purges excess sebum and loosens unwanted substances like pollutants, leaving your skin thoroughly cleansed and refreshed for a glowing complexion.

Helps Release Acne-Causing Bacteria And Cells

Acne happens when your skin cells trap sebum in your follicles, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and inflammation. Using steam to loosen up dirt and oils can help free the sebum and stop pimples from forming. “There is a misconception that steaming the face opens pores and unclogs them,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Caroline Robinson tells SELF Magazine. She continues, explaining that our pores are “fixed structures that do not open or close in response to changes in temperature.” In other words, warm steam doesn’t open pores and cool water doesn’t close them. But what steam does do is soften the very top layer of dead skin, making it more permeable, loosening up any oils, dirt or acne-causing bacteria hanging out on the skin surface so it can be removed.

Promotes Circulation 

Heat from steaming — and the perspiration it causes — can encourage blood flow by dilating your blood vessels, which sends more oxygen to the skin. Proper circulation is not only ideal for your overall health, it has specific benefits to the skin, including the prevention of dryness. Additionally, steam promotes blood circulation and causes the skin to flush temporarily — making it look glowy, healthy and plump. 

Hydrates

Hydration helps your skin retain its strength and elasticity. Regardless of skin type, you’ve probably dealt with uncomfortable bouts of dehydration. Not to be mistaken with moisturizing — which you can do with facial oils and creams — hydration comes from water, which is why facial steaming is a great way to give your skin a shot of H20.  

Helps With Absorption Of Skin Care Products

Steam increases the permeability of the skin, allowing it to better absorb topicals. Try steaming before you introduce products like toner, serums and moisturizers to your skin. Steam has the ability to increase skin care product penetration to give you more bang for your skin care buck. 

Helps Relieve Stress

Carving out a few minutes for self-care can do wonders for your stress levels, and using those minutes to steam your face can relax your mind and body, while also enhancing the skin. While you’re at it, add some soothing herbs like mint or rosemary, or essential oils like lavender for an extra boost.  

Helps Relieve Sinus Congestion

A steam bath may conjure up memories of mom placing your head under a towel to help clear your cold symptoms — and, as usual, mom knew what she was doing! Steam lightly inhaled through the nose and mouth can help relieve sinus congestion and headaches in a gentle and soothing way. 

Step By Step Facial Steam

There are a few ways you can enjoy this versatile skin practice at home. It can be simple and free or as luxe as you choose. A quick search will bring up a huge selection of electric facial steamers, but if you like a DIY approach, the process can be done with nothing but hot water and towels. Here are some general guidelines to help you create this eco-friendly and relaxing skin care ritual in your own bathroom. 

Step 1

Start by cleansing your face. You want all oil, dirt and makeup gone to prevent them from seeping deeper into your skin as you steam. A gel or foaming cleanser is a good idea to help get rid of the oil and dirt. Some good options for all skin types include the Stone Crop Gel Wash or the Kombucha Microbiome Foaming Cleanser.

Step 2

Heat water and carefully pour into a large, heat-safe ceramic or glass bowl or into the bathroom sink (with the stopper in place). Plastic bowls are not recommended. Tap water is a great, accessible option, but if you want to get fancy, try distilled or filtered water.

Step 3 (Optional) 

For a fragrant experience, essential oils or herbs can be added to the warm water. However, before doing so, we recommend consulting with a skin care professional on correct usage and determining what works for your skin. Essential oils can irritate the skin and need to be properly diluted before use. If used correctly, tea tree oil contains cleansing, anti-inflammatory and healing properties and is known to assist in regulating sebum production. Lavender oil is known to lessen redness and irritation caused by dry skin and eczema. Pro tip: If you don’t have herbs or oils available, adding a couple of tea bags can help achieve the same results. Organic chamomile and peppermint are calming to the skin, while green tea has polyphenols that can fight against infection and bacteria. 

Step 4

Place a towel over your head so that it is trapping all the steam inside and position your face about 10 inches above the bowl. Don’t get too close to the steam — the ritual should be pleasant, not painful. Stay in the position for 8 –10 minutes for best results. 

Step 5

Once you have steamed your face, your skin is primed ready to absorb whatever is next. Now is a good time to apply a facial mask. If you’re looking to double down on hydration, go for the Coconut Cream Masque or Strawberry Rhubarb Masque. If you’re struggling with breakouts, your skin will love the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque or the Acne Advanced Clarifying Masque. Aging skin will drink in the Bamboo Age Corrective Masque. Additionally, the Calm Skin Arnica Masque is a great option for all of the sensitive complexions out there. 

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

The Impact of Stress on Skin

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

Skin Irritation And Rashes

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

Dry Skin And Wrinkles

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

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

Fluid Retention And Dark Circles

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

Stress Hormones And Skin Health

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

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

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

As if these responses weren’t enough to manage on top of stress itself, your skin health becomes compromised.

Does Stress Cause Acne?

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

Understanding The Mind-Body Connection

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

The Brain-Skin Axis

In a simplified explanation, the brain-skin axis is a pathway that relays stress messages from the skin to the brain and from the brain to the skin.

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

A Vicious Cycle: Stress Triggers and Skin Health

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

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

Creating a Skin Care Routine During Stressful Cycles

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

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

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

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

The Impact of Stress on Skin

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

Skin Irritation And Rashes

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

Dry Skin And Wrinkles

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

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

Fluid Retention And Dark Circles

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

Stress Hormones And Skin Health

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

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

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

Does Stress Cause Acne?

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

Understanding The Mind-Body Connection

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

The Brain-Skin Axis

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

A Vicious Cycle: Stress Triggers and Skin Health

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

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

Creating a Skin Care Routine During Stressful Cycles

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

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

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

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

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

What Happens When You Don't Remove Your Makeup? 

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

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

• Dull skin 
• Free radical damage
• Clogged pores
• Inflammation

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

How To Remove Your Makeup

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

Double Cleansing 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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