Health News

Which oil for which use? At Comptoir des huiles, 1 oil = 1 exceptional property. This guide will help you understand the virtues of each oil to help you quickly find the ideal oil for your skin, your needs and your desires. Health, beauty, well-being... Discover their fabulous natural powers and learn how to use them to best advantage thanks to the expertise and know-how of our team.

ANTI-AGEING OIL

The Prickly Pear

• For mature or dry skin
• For the care of stretch marks
• Face and body

Prickly Pear Oil is known for its restructuring, nourishing and antioxidant properties. Its properties give it anti-ageing actions, so it is the perfect ally for mature skin to counter the effects of time. It will also appeal to younger skin to prevent the signs of ageing. It is also ideal for dry skin as a daily care product, it will nourish and revitalize the epidermis. The repairing virtues of Prickly Pear oil make it suitable as an anti-stretch mark oil. The cracks are nourished in depth, less contrasted and less apparent. The skin appears firmer, smoother and plumper.

I BUY

DRAINING OIL

Calophyllum

• For mature, sensitive and problem skin
• For heavy legs and pain
• Face and legs

Calophylla oil is an oil with remarkable multipurpose properties. It is perfectly suited to mature, sensitive and problem skin thanks to its repairing, purifying, soothing and anti-bacterial properties. It concentrates numerous restructuring and protective active ingredients such as omega-6, omega-9, polyphenols and calaustrin. These different nutrients make it an oil with soothing, softening and antioxidant properties. Damaged tissues are thus regenerated and strengthened.

It is also a natural soothing oil that calms pain and decongests by stimulating circulation. This oil is not recommended for people on anticoagulant therapy.

I BUY

ANTI-BLEMISH OIL

Neem

• For problem, sensitive and reactive skin
• For sensitive scalps
• Face and hair

Neem oil has been known for centuries for its antibacterial, cleansing and emollient properties. Rich in oleic acid and vitamin E, Neem oil nourishes the skin. It is also an ideal purifying agent to help problem skin. It helps to soothe and soften tight skin and sensitive scalps.

I BUY

REGULATING OIL

Jojoba

• For combination to oily or dull skin
• For dry and brittle hair
• Face, body and hair

Jojoba oil is one of the most renowned oils because it has undeniable virtues. Its original composition regulates the production of sebum in mixed to oily skin and leaves a matte appearance. Moreover, the dry texture of Jojoba oil allows a good nourishing and softening application without leaving an oily film on the skin. It revitalises dull and lifeless skin thanks to its concentration of omegas-9 and fatty acids such as gadoleic acid and erucic acid. Jojoba oil also has a very positive effect on the hair. It acts as a real cure for dry and brittle hair. The hair fibre is nourished and the hair regains its suppleness and shine.

I BUY

ANTI-POLLUTION OIL

Moringa Oleifera

• For sensitive and tight skin
• To clean the skin
• Face and hair

Rich in vitamins A, B, C and E, Moringa Oleifera oil is the ideal treatment for soothing sensitised and tight skin. Rich in antioxidants, it helps to fight against premature skin ageing, replenishes tissues by nourishing them and helps to keep the skin firm.

A less common use for an oil, Moringa Oleifera oil is also a very good daily facial cleanser. It is very effective in protecting the skin from external aggressions and removing pollution. Used daily, it leaves the complexion clear, radiant and skin soothed.

When applied to the hair, Moringa Oleifera oil will form a film around the hair fibre to protect it from external aggressions, from the roots to the tips.

I BUY

EXTRA-NOURISHING DRY OIL

The Baobab

• For dry skin
• For dry and split hair
• Body, face and hair

A real asset for our skin, Baobab oil has an ultra-nourishing, anti-ageing, softening, lipid-replenishing and regenerating action. Thanks to the omega-6 and omega-9 it contains, Baobab oil nourishes the skin in depth and preserves its hydration by acting as a natural protective film. The vitamin E present in this oil makes it an effective anti-ageing complex, helping the skin to retain its elasticity and youthfulness. Baobab oil concentrates a large amount of phytosterols which act to repair damaged tissue. It is also beneficial for the hair, nourishing it in depth while protecting it from external aggressions. Dry and split hair regains its tone and beauty.

I BUY

STRENGTHENING OIL

Ricin

• Promotes growth
• For brittle nails
• Face, nails, hair and eyelashes

Castor oil never ceases to amaze us because its effects on our bodies are considerable. The ricinoleic acid naturally contained in this oil purifies the skin. It is also said to have a soothing effect on sensitive and irritated skin. It restores strength to nails, eyelashes and hair and promotes their growth. It is also an excellent repairing and plumping agent for damaged skin. (chapping, cracks...). Used on the face, it restores radiance.

I BUY

OIL TO PROMOTE HYDRATION

The Marula

• For normal skin
• For shiny hair
• Face, body and hair

The high concentration of antioxidants, saturated fatty acids and vitamins C and E make Marula oil a versatile oil suitable for all skin types. Its nourishing and protective properties help to keep the skin smooth and full of vitality. Marula oil also promotes skin hydration by limiting the evaporation of water from the epidermis. It will bring comfort and suppleness to the skin from head to toe. Marula oil brings protection and shine to the hair by nourishing it without making it greasy.

I BUY

SHEATHING OIL

The Carapate

• For curly, frizzy or dry hair
• Promotes hair growth and curl retention
• Face and hair

Widely used to promote hair growth and prevent split ends, Carapate oil has qualities similar to those of Ricin oil. Ideal for curly, frizzy or extremely dry hair, Carapate oil is particularly effective thanks to the fatty acids it contains (ricinoleic acid). It helps to nourish, protect and coat the hair fibre. It also cleanses dry or irritated scal ps thanks to its anti-bacterial properties. In addition to its effects on the hair, Carapate oil is effective in strengthening and encouraging nail and eyelash growth.

I BUY

SOOTHING OIL

Moringa Drouhardii

• For tight and sensitive skin
• For hair fortification
• Face, body and hair

Rich in vitamin E and alpha-tocopherols, Moringa Drouhardii oil is a versatile beauty essential known to soothe and protect sensitive skin. Rich in antioxidants, it helps fight premature skin ageing, replenishes tissues by nourishing them and helps keep skin toned and firm.

Applied to the hair, Moringa Drouhardii oil will help to nourish the hair fibre in depth, from the roots to the tips. Lightly massaged into the scalp, it will help to cleanse the scalp. The vitamins and minerals naturally contained in this oil help to strengthen the hair and make it shine.

I BUY

REPAIRING OIL

The Ximenia

• For damaged skin
• For dull and damaged hair
• Body and hair

Rich in fatty acids, this oil has very nourishing and repairing properties. When used on the body, Ximenia oil will help to repair damaged tissues in depth. Its film-forming action helps to keep the skin well hydrated. This film will also play a protective role, creating a barrier to repel external aggressions. The epidermis is restructured and the skin appears softer, smoother and protected.

Applied to the hair, Ximenia oil will restore strength and vitality to dull and lifeless hair thanks to its vitamins and nutrients. It will form a protective film around the hair to nourish, protect and restore shine.

I BUY

The advantages of using pure vegetable oils

Apart from the fact that the most commonly used vegetable oils are the same and very popular in the kitchen, they are in fact wonderful cosmetics (some of them are not edible at all). Thanks to the vitamins and fatty acids they contain, vegetable oils are a real goldmine for our bodies.

Depending on the plant from which they originate, they can be moisturising, protective, anti-oxidising, repairing, fortifying or sebo-regulating. Depending on the oil chosen, there are many uses, which makes it an inexpensive natural cosmetic. It can be used for the face, body and/or hair. In short, one oil can be enough to moisturise from head to toe. Because it is a pure, naturally rich and simple ingredient, the use of a vegetable oil is beneficial and rarely allergenic, unlike essential oils for example.

It is no secret that young skin has more spring to it than older skin — the secret is in where that bounciness comes from. Skin's springiness is the result of elastin, and though it occurs naturally in the skin, your elastin production can slow due to a number of different factors.

So, what is elastin's role in your skin's appearance, and how can you lean on it to keep your skin looking firm and healthy for the long haul?

What Is Elastin?

Elastin is a protein in the fiber of the connective tissue of the skin that provides a resilient and elastic quality. It's what gives skin that bouncy, full look and feel so often associated with a youthful, healthy complexion. Elastin depletes naturally with age, leaving skin more prone to visible sagginess, fine lines and wrinkling.

What Causes a Loss of Skin Elastin?

Many factors affect how skin ages. For the most part, the breakdown of collagen and loss of elasticity is perfectly normal — as you age, you may notice your skin becomes more dry, dull and lined, and that's natural. However, these changes may also stem from:

• Sun exposure. The sun's rays can cause UV damage that contributes to the appearance of sagging and wrinkles. Skin exposed to the sun without protection is also at greater risk of DNA and cell damage.
• Pollution. Air pollution is often overlooked when it comes to skincare, but your skin sure feels its effects. Free radicals created by air pollution and other environmental factors can lead to the appearance of premature aging of the skin.
• Lifestyle choices. In many ways, your skin reflects how you treat it — for example, research indicates that free radicals are created by cigarette smoke, which can contribute to early signs of aging.

How to Improve Skin Appearance?

Thankfully, there are ways to address the changes caused by elastin-depletion in your skin.

• Moisturizer. Skin aging is a fact of life, but you can have visibly healthy skin by keeping it moisturized. Use moisture-rich products formulated with ingredients that target the visible effects of elastin depletion in skin, such as peptides, for a visibly firmer appearance.
• Sunscreen. Using a daily sunscreen year-round helps to prevent visible signs of skin aging. Choose a sunscreen made with moisturizers so that your skin feels comfortable enough to wear UV protection every day.
• Antioxidants. Protect skin from the visible signs of aging from UV rays and pollution by including antioxidants in your skincare routine. Vitamin C & E for example are natural ingredients rich in antioxidants with big beauty benefits.
• Diet. OK, it's not all green juice, but a little greenery in your stomach certainly does not hurt. Eating a colorful range of fruits and vegetables is a good foundation for any eating plan — accompany them with whole grains and lean proteins to fill out your macronutrient needs.
• Water. Get plenty of hydration into your daily regimen to keep your skin looking gorgeous and youthful. Aim for between 2.7 and 3.7 liters of water a day. That doesn't just mean water: Biting into a juicy orange contributes to your daily water intake, too.

Elastin is just one tool your skin uses to keep itself in shape. There are plenty of ways in which the skin loses elastin, but fortunately, there are just as many ways to keep skin looking youthful for years to come.

Skin exfoliation is a simple technique that dates back all the way to ancient Egypt — and it is still the key to a vibrant, healthy complexion. It involves sloughing away dirt and dead skin cells to reveal a fresh, radiant layer of new skin underneath. There's no shortage of exfoliating products to choose from, so it's important to consider how different exfoliants can affect your skin. If your skincare routine is looking a little rough around the edges, here is why rounding it out with exfoliation is a great place to start.

So, what is skin exfoliation?

The epidermis, or the outermost layer of your skin, is made up of five sublayers. New skin cells are born in the deepest layer. As these cells mature, they travel up to the top layer. From there, they typically shed away naturally, allowing fresher, plumper and more evenly pigmented skin to emerge.

Healthy skin sheds an incredible 30,000 to 40,000 dead cells per minute, but this is often slowed down by a number of factors such as sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations and aging. When the shedding process is delayed, dead cells start piling up on the skin, leaving it looking rough and dull. If they sit for too long, they may even clog your pores — which can lead to everything from blemishes to fine lines.

Enter exfoliation, which whisks away dead cells and brings fresh skin to the surface. As an added bonus, it also allows other skincare products to work more effectively!

Physical or Chemical: How to choose your exfoliator?

Exfoliating products currently fall into two categories: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliators manually scrub away dead skin from the skin's topmost layer using abrasive ingredients like sugar, microbeads, rice bran powder or jojoba seeds. The scrubbing action boosts microcirculation and lymphatic drainage, leaving you with a fresh, glowing complexion.

While the treatment offers a dose of instant gratification, it does come with a caveat: If your product's exfoliant is made up of jagged particles or you scrub too vigorously while exfoliating, a physical exfoliator might leave your skin with microtears rather than a glowing complexion. You can avoid these issues by choosing products with smooth, round granules and treating your skin gently as you exfoliate.

Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, work by breaking down the intercellular "glue" that holds dead skin cells together. Once these bonds dissolve, the dead cells fall away, allowing newer skin to surface.

While they may sound daunting, chemical exfoliators can be surprisingly gentle — they often feature low levels of natural, food-derived acids and enzymes. Keep an eye out for alpha-hydroxy acid exfoliants like lactic acid (found in sour milk), glycolic acid (from sugar cane) and tartaric acid (from grapes). Skin that's oily or prone to enlarged pores or blemishes will do well with salicylic acid — an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that can penetrate through pore-clogging debris. For boosted cell turnover and resurfacing, Neoglucosamine is a chemical exfoliant that hydrates skin while reducing hyperpigmentation — a two-for-one ingredient.

As an added bonus, chemical exfoliants do not require any scrubbing on your part, which allows it to penetrate into skin's deeper layers and boost cellular turnover without requiring the friction that could upset sensitive skin.

Mapping the Zones of Your Face

Do you have an oily T-zone or enlarged pores? Do you experience chronic spots on the sides of your nose? More powerful exfoliating products can come in handy when it comes to problem zones — or you can simply exfoliate those areas more often!

On the other hand, eyes and lips have extremely fragile skin. It's a good idea to skip exfoliating these areas unless you are using a product that's specifically made for this delicate tissue.

It is possible to over-exfoliate

As with most things in life, moderation is key. After all, there are only so many dead cells to slough away! Going overboard and overexfoliating can disrupt your skin's natural barrier, causing irritation, inflammation and breakouts. It could also make you more vulnerable to sun damage and moisture loss. So, start slowly and gradually work your way up to exfoliating two or three times a week. The key is to watch how your skin reacts and go from there. Finally, remember that freshly exfoliated skin is more fragile and needs to be protected with a good moisturizer and sunscreen.

When it comes to the best ingredients for fighting acne, two stand out from the crowd: benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. These tried-and-true skincare staples both help to reduce acne-causing bacteria. What is more, you are likely to find them in many of the same types of products — mainly cleansers, spot treatments and exfoliators. However, that does not mean these two ingredients are the same.

Here's a look at the difference between benzoyl peroxide vs salicylic acid:

What is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid has been used some 2,000 years — even longer than benzoyl peroxide — to target pimples and breakouts on the face. It is a beta hydroxy acid that works by penetrating deep into the skin and dissolving whatever is clogging your pores before it can cause breakouts, whether it is excess oil and dead cells or irritants from the environment, such as dirt and particles from air pollution.

The result? Fewer and less extreme breakouts, thanks to the removal of acne-causing bacteria, as well as the ingredient's natural exfoliating abilities. It is also anti-inflammatory, which makes it less likely to contribute to redness on the skin. Over-the-counter salicylic acid is limited at 2% for products that are designed to be left on your face and 3% for products that are meant to be washed off, such as cleansers or shampoo.

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, is an organic acid in the peroxide family that is been used to treat acne for more than 60 years. Its antimicrobial properties lower the levels of the acne-causing bacteria known as P. acnes in and on the skin while also calming inflammation. However, this ingredient is more likely to cause skin irritation than salicylic acid, which is why it is available over the counter in various concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10%. The higher the formula's concentration, the more likely it is to lead to red or peeling skin.

How Are Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide Different?

The major difference between benzoyl peroxide vs salicylic acid is in their approach: Salicylic acid clears out whatever is lurking in your pores, while benzoyl peroxide actually kills the acne-causing bacteria itself. It is quite possible that both acne-fighters will work well with your skin, but it is smart to consider your skin type before you reach for a new product.

How to use Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide in your skincare regimen?

Dermatologists generally don't recommend using these ingredients together. Combining the two is a quick way to dry out your skin and cause irritation. Rather than using them together and hoping for the best, try picking one that targets your skin's specific needs.

If you have blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid alone should work well to clear out your pores. If your acne tends to be inflammatory, such as papules and pustules, opt for benzoyl peroxide to stop outbreaks at the source.

For sensitive skin, start with salicylic acid, since it is less likely to cause irritation. If you are already using an oral or topical treatment for acne, benzoyl peroxide might be a more effective option — but start with a lower concentration and gradually move up from there to see what your skin can tolerate. This is doubly important if you use benzoyl peroxide products that you leave on your skin.

If your skin is dry, you can still use one or both products. However, you may want to use them in a cleanser so the ingredients do not sit on your skin for too long and cause dryness. Also, make sure to apply a moisturizer along with your acne products to help maintain skin barrier function and minimize the risk of irritation.

Starting an anti-aging skincare routine introduces your skin to some power-packed ingredients. Some minimalist skincare enthusiasts opt to draw on the benefits of just one wrinkle fighter at a time — but, while that keeps things simple, it does not take full advantage of what is out there. Combining certain ingredients can bring out the best of both and makes for a truly effective anti-aging regimen.

Enter vitamin C benefits for skin. When paired with the revitalizing skin benefits of retinol, this duo can help promote a youthful complexion.

What Are Vitamin C and Retinol?

Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is a strong antioxidant. Smoke, pollution and the sun's UV rays are all factors that can contribute to visible signs of aging.

When applied topically, some of the most noticeable vitamin C benefits for skin include:

• Help improve the look of dark spots: Using vitamin C helps inhibit melanin formation, which means it may work to improve the look of dark spots and even out skin tone.
• Improve the look of sagging skin: Applying vitamin C topically may help fight signs of aging caused by the sun. Free radicals can cause skin to loosen and sag, so giving your routine an antioxidant boost is a path to a complexion that looks and feels younger.
• Brightening complexions: Free radicals can also cause skin to look dull, tired and lifeless. Applying vitamin C complements the skin's natural turnover process for healthier-looking skin.

Retinol is just one of several kinds of retinoids — a group of powerful vitamin A derivatives that can help fights signs of aging. Retinol and retinoids are often considered a holy grail wrinkle treatment, especially if you start using them in your 30s to help improve the appearance of wrinkles.

Why Use Vitamin C and Retinol Together?

With all those benefits, why would these wrinkle fighters need a partner? It is because those perks get even better with a little company — when these two ingredients team up, skin glows.

First, vitamin C works to help improve the look of dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Then, retinol steps in to help improve skin's elasticity. The result is that retinol and other retinoids may help improve skin's texture while helping to minimize the look of fine lines. Like vitamin C, retinol may also help even out skin tone and texture.

What's the Best Way to Get Vitamin C and Retinols?

Vitamin C is at its most potent when it's stable — packaging it in serum capsules protects it from exposure to light and air that would make it less effective. Retinols seem to be most effective when found in creams and serums — just make sure the ingredient in the formula says retinol.

To give your routine an anti-aging one-two punch, try first applying a vitamin C serum in the morning. In your night-time routine, use a layer of a hydrating, retinol-based cream or a lightweight retinol oil. One study found that subjects using stabilized vitamin C in a moisturizer and a retinol as part of their face regimen saw improvements in the look of discolorations in as little as four weeks.

Unfortunately, there's no real-life fountain of youth — but that does not mean you can't keep your skin feeling fresh and new.

Maskne is popping up as a common side effect of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) or face masks. It is a combination of acne and irritation from prolonged face mask wear, especially among those who are working tirelessly on the frontlines of this ongoing pandemic. The reason maskne happens is because wearing a mask can increase moisture build-up, which may cause bacteria to grow and spread.

If your skin is experiencing irritation and breakouts, do not fret. Here are three simple ways to treat maskne.

Wash your face and your mask

Now is the time to take care of your skin with a cleanser that is not irritating or drying. Your face wash should cleanse away dirt, oil and bacteria to help treat and prevent breakouts. Look for cleansers that say “oil-free” on the label. Our recommendation is Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash. It is gentle enough to use every day yet powerful enough to help you see clearer skin in as little as one week.

If you work in a doctor’s office or hospital and have limited time, grab an allergy-tested Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Cleansing Wipe. Just one wipe sweeps away dirt, oil and impurities that could be causing maskne. There is no need to rinse, which is perfect when you are constantly on the go.

Do not forget to treat your face mask just like you do your very own precious face. For those of you who opt for reusable cloth face masks, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) urges you to wash it after every wear using hot water (unless otherwise recommended) and a gentle detergent. Harsh detergents have the potential to make maskne worse. You can toss it in the washing machine or wash it by hand.

Wear an oil-free moisturizer

This one may seem a little counterintuitive, especially if face masks are causing the production of extra moisture. But, hear us out. Oil-free moisturizers give your skin the good kind of hydrating moisture that can serve as a protective barrier. Keep an eye out for ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Our pick? Hydro Boost Gel Cream made especially for extra-dry skin.

Skip the Makeup

It can be tempting to reach for the foundation and concealer to cover up your maskne. But, this could actually cause further irritation. Let your skin breathe and give it time to heal by flaunting your natural beauty whenever possible. If you absolutely cannot get away without wearing a bit of makeup, the AAD suggests that you apply non-comedogenic or oil-free makeup that will not clog pores.  

Your skin is unique. Just because a product works for someone else is no guarantee you will see the same results. Customizing your skincare routine for your particular needs will offer the biggest benefits to your skin, but that process starts with one simple question: What is my skin type?

What Is My Skin Type? Choose the Right Care for Your Skin

Crafting a routine that brings you your happiest skin will inherently take some trial and error. However, if you have tried a variety of products only to be left with skin that feels irritated, shows visible signs of breakouts or just looks less than healthy, it's time to take a closer look at your skin type.

Here's how to recognize your skin type and choose the best products to fit it.

Dry Skin

All skin types can experience dryness. Regardless of your skin type, skin can also become more dry as you age. The difference is that while other skin types might feel dry due to seasonal changes, low humidity or certain products, those with a dry skin type deal with it all the time.

If you have been piling on the moisturizer to no avail, try taking a closer look at the ingredients in your routine as a whole. Avoid drying ingredients or harsh formulations that strip the skin of oil, as they run the risk of further drying out already parched skin. Instead, try formulations designed for sensitive and dry skin, such as a milk cleanser made with moisturizing oils, to leave your skin feeling clean, soft and comfortable.

Oily Skin

This skin type tends to look shiny, and you might see more breakouts than those with dry skin. Climate, genetics, age and diet may all increase the oil content of skin, but oily skin types in particular struggle to stay matte. One common mistake many make when dealing with oily skin is attempting to strip the skin of its natural oils. This causes the skin to ramp up oil production in response — resulting in even oilier skin and more opportunities for breakouts to form.

Even oily skin needs proper moisture. It's all about balance: A facial cleanser that combines oil-absorbing clay with lightly hydrating ingredients will clear away dirt, makeup and debris without stripping the skin. It is also recommended to regularly do face masks to control the sebum level.

Combination Skin

This skin type can be a bit trickier, as this skin type is a patchwork of both dry and oily areas. Usually, combination skin is oily in the T-zone (the forehead, nose and chin) and driest on the cheeks. Try using different skincare products on different areas of the face — such as a richer, more moisturizing cream on the cheeks and a lighter moisturizer in the T-zone. Skincare for combination skin should also start with a nourishing cleanser that exfoliates the skin while still leaving it feeling comfortable. Look for product formulations that balance pH to condition the skin.

Have you ever noticed a difference in your skin after visiting a different location? Or, perhaps, at the start of a new season? It's due to the fluctuating humidity levels.

Humidity, in addition to your hair, can have a significant impact on the health of your skin. So be ready to battle the negative consequences of humidity fluctuations whenever they occur. Are you curious as to how?

How Does Humidity Affect Your Skin?

Humidity refers to the number of water droplets in the air. A proper combination of humid and arid conditions is required for healthy skin. Humidity levels that are too high or too low might be harmful to your skin. For example, if you live in an area where the humidity level is too low, your skin will feel dry and scaly. If you live in an area with excessive humidity, on the other hand, your skin may become prone to acne and rashes.

1. Extreme Humidity

• Excessive Sweating

You may have observed that summer is unbearably hot. When the environment is extremely humid, a regular temperature feels severe. You sweat significantly more when the temperature is high and the humidity is high. The worst thing is that, due to the extreme heat, sweat evaporates but the moisture remains on your skin, making you feel much worse.

• Acne Breakout

Excessive sweating is a common result of high humidity, and it brings with it a slew of skin problems. Acne outbreaks are one such skin issue. Sweating clogs your pores, causing uncomfortable pimples to appear on your skin. Acne is characterized by redness, itchiness, and discomfort.

2. Reduced Humidity

• Skin that is dry

Low humidity means there isn't enough moisture in the air, which is harmful for your skin. Moisture is required for soft and supple skin on any type of skin. Low humidity causes your skin's natural oils to be depleted. It becomes excessively dry and flaky due to a lack of moisture. You may experience skin cracking and bleeding if the weather is really dry.

• Allergy Signs and Symptoms

If you have skin allergies, the low humidity can aggravate them. When the humidity level lowers, your skin becomes dry. In addition, your nasal passages become exceedingly dry. If you have allergies, you may notice that your nose is bleeding. A sinus infection can also be caused by nose bleeding.

How Do You Take Care Of Your Skin When It's Hot Outside?

1. Getting to Know Your Skin

To protect your skin from the effects of humid weather, start by getting to know your skin. Knowing your skin type will assist you understand what kind of precautions you should take in the event of severe weather. Choose the product that is most suited for your skin type from a myriad of options available for various skin types. You'll be able to prepare your skin for the humid weather this way.

2. Keep Your Skin Clean

Assuming you are somebody with sleek or blend skin, mugginess is absolutely an element that would make your skin feel more terrible. Make it a highlight keep your skin clean consistently to forestall skin inflammation breakouts or other skin rashes. Utilize a non-comedogenic chemical. Likewise assuming you have skin inflammation inclined skin, use chemicals formed with salicylic corrosive and benzoyl peroxide.

3. Saturate Daily

Cream is an absolute necessity regardless of the dampness level. For high moistness conditions, you might pick a calming lightweight lotion that keeps your skin delicate and hydrated. Assuming you are residing in places with low moistness, your skin becomes dry and irritated. In such cases, it is smarter to apply a body salve or body spread to shield it from being dry and dull.

4. Wear A Sunscreen

Regardless the climate condition is, applying sunscreen is necessary. It is the most effective way to shield your skin from outrageous climate conditions, other than protecting it from the hurtful UV beams. Make sure to wear sunscreen any place you go out in the sun or you settle on a swimming meeting. Pick a sunscreen that suits your skin type and gives you the most extreme advantages.

5. Attempt A Humidifier

You can get a humidifier to control the climate of your home. A humidifier will assist with adjusting the air hydration by driving dampness into the environment. On the off chance that you can handle the climate around you, you can handle your skin too. Humidifiers are amazingly valuable, particularly during winter or summer.

6. Enjoy Weekly Facials

Decide to do week by week facials to keep your skin pores unclogged, clean, and liberated from oil, sweat, and item development. Additionally, appropriately shed your skin with natively constructed clean or baking pop. Facial steam also works incredible on your skin. Truth be told, taking a facial steam before your shedding cycle, would help in opening your pores and cleaning them from inside. You can utilize a facial covering likewise to assimilate abundance oil from your skin.

Rosehip oil is an ingredient loved by many, with an interesting name and a wide variety of skincare benefits. Extracted from the fruit (known as rose hips) and seeds, rosehip oil can help with inflammation and pain, and may strengthen the immune system due to an incredibly high vitamin C content! Rose hips are versatile and are often used as hero ingredients in popular skincare products, especially inside products specially formulated to treat symptoms associated with sensitive skin and oily skin.

But it’s not just the skincare and health supplements industry that benefits from rose hips, they are also used in the health and supplements industry to make a variety of perishable goods, such as jam, jelly, syrup, soup and beverages such as herbal tea infusions. Rose hips can also be eaten raw, although don’t expect a taste as appealing as roses - they are tangy and have strong hibiscus notes with supporting citrus flavours.

What is Rosehip Oil?

Rosehip oil, also known as rosehip seed oil, rose haw or rose hep, is a pressed oil produced from the berry-like fruits of different varieties of the rose plant. Rose hips are the fruiting bodies of the rose (developed after the rose has been fertilised) - in a sweet dance, the petals drop off, the hip (uterus) enlarges and the wonderful seeds we have come to love are formed.

The rose plant is part of the rosa genus in the rosaceae family which comprises approximately 150 reported species. Although rosehip oil could theoretically be made using any of the rose plants in this family, certain varieties such as Rosa rubiginosa and Rosa canina will produce better quality rosehip oil that offers far more nutrients and benefits. The extraction method utilised when processing rose hips will also have an influence on the quality and benefits of rosehip oil.

Rosehip oil differs from rose oil which is created using the petals of the Rosa damascena plant and not the fruit of the Rosa canina, Rosa rubiginosa, or Rosa moschata plants.

Rose hips are remarkable and contain the highest vitamin C content among horticultural crops, fruits and vegetables. They also contain a load of bioactive and beneficial compounds which we’ll cover in more detail later!

What’s Inside Rose Hips and Rosehip Oil?

Depending on the way in which you use or consume rose hips, you’ll be able to derive different benefits from this star ingredient as different components are available in different forms. Rose hips contain a variety of important acids and bioactives that are beneficial for your skin and health, depending on the quality of the rose plant’s fruit and the method of extraction.

Active Ingredients Found in Rose Hips

Rose hips contain a variety of bioactive compounds. Let’s take a look at this list of nutrients and vitamins inside rose hips, and what their benefits are briefly:

• Carotenoids and retinoids (preformed vitamin A)
• Tocopherol (has vitamin E activity)
• Polyphenols
• Bioflavonoids
• Tannins and pectin
• Sugars, amino acids, organic acids
• Folates
• Essential oils: a mixture of alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, terpenoids and esters, such as: vitispirane; α-E-acaridial; dodecanoic acid; hexadecanoic acid; docosane; β-ionone; 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one; myristic acid; linoleic acid/vitamin F (an omega 6 fatty acid).
• Polyunsaturated fatty acids: oleic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid(vitamin F), gamma-linolenic acid.
• Bioactive compounds

In particular, the Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) found inside rose hips cannot be synthesised by the human body, and must be supplied through diet. EFAs are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (fatty acid compounds containing 18-20 carbons).

Although this may sound complicated, you have probably heard of common examples of fatty acids such as Omega-3 (linolenic acid) and Omega-6 (linoleic acid) fatty acids, which may support brain function and cell growth. Other EFAs may also regulate blood pressure, viscosity, immune, and inflammatory responses. The high vitamin C content inside rose hips is part of what makes it so special. Vitamin C is just as important for the skin as it is for the immune system.

What Does Rosehip Oil Smell Like & What Colour is Rosehip Oil?

Although you might be led to believe that rosehip oil may resemble the sweet inviting scent of rosebuds, rosehip oil’s scent is far more subtle and contains pleasant earthy aromas. Some species of rose such as Rosa rubiginosa (also known as Rosa mosqueta) has a fleshy and marine-like scent with an almost fishy odour.

The colour of rose hips typically range between orange and red but may also be a dark purple or black colour in some species of rose plant. Rosehip oil similarly occurs in hues ranging from orange to a soft yellow or strong red in appearance. This is largely dependent on the rose hip used to press the rose hip seed oil or may even depend on the extraction method used during processing.

How is Rosehip Oil Extracted from the Rose Plant and Processed?

High-grade rosehip oil is most often determined based on where the rosa canina plants have been cultivated and the method of extraction of the oil from the fruit.

There are three common extraction methods for rosehip oil:

1. Solvent extraction - Using maceration (crushing of the fruit) and a solvent to extract the oil from the rosehips.
2. Cold press extraction - Using pressure to extract oil from the fruit and seeds of the Rosa canina plant.
3. Supercritical extraction - Highly pressurised carbon dioxide and low temperatures are used for optimal extraction of the rosehip oil.

The highest quality oil is extracted by utilising organic solvents, using a combination of 50% ethanol, 30% water, and 20% cold-pressed vinegar. After vaporising the solvent, the brown-yellow crystals that remain indicate identical structures to vitamin A acid with a concentration of 80%.

What Does Rosehip Oil Do & Its Benefits?

Rosehip oil is renowned for a variety of skincare benefits. It may provide anti-ageing benefits, calm inflammation, assist with clearing acne, reduce oiliness, and help with treating other skin conditions. The incredibly high vitamin C content inside rosehip oil also makes it one powerful asset!

The Benefits of Rosehip Oil

The benefits of rosehip oil are wide-ranging and it has been used in traditional & herbal medicine as well as pharmaceutical formulations. It can be used to benefit the body in a variety of ways when applied to the skin, hair, or used in other formulations.

It has become a popular ingredient in skincare due to its range of ingredients which may promote stronger, healthier skin and is suitable for a range of skin types, including oily skin, dry skin, sensitive combination skin and ageing skin.

Which Skin Conditions & Skin Issues Can You Treat Using Rosehip Oil?

Reduce Acne

Retinol, vitamin A, helps regulate sebum production which may prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming. Retinol is also a strong keratolytic (or peeling agent) that increases the rate of skin cell turnover by removing the build-up of dead cells. This process prevents dead skin cell debris from clogging pores, reducing the resulting acne.

Oily skin that experiences acne will also benefit from rosehip oil as it contains retinoic acid - a highly effective drying agent for oily skin and pimples. By reducing oil, you can cut off the ammunition for acne to form.

Reduce Inflammation

Rosehip oil contains a key powerful antioxidant in high concentrations - vitamin C. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C fights free radicals, preventing damage to the skin’s barrier, and also works to reduce inflammation associated with skin breakouts and improve hyperpigmentation (the discolouration of the skin due to acne).

Regulate Sebum Production and Treat Scarring

Bad acne breakouts, and severe types of acne can also cause scarring, which rosehip oil can help fix through the high content of essential fatty and unsaturated acids rosehip oil possesses. Fatty acids play a key role in the permeability of cell membranes and skin’s injury repair mechanisms.

The presence of linoleic acid inside rosehip oil also helps regulate sebum production, which is great news for those with oily skin, as it can prevent your pores from becoming clogged with oil, resulting in breakouts.

The inflammation associated with acne can also be reduced by using rosehip oil, which contains anti-inflammatory elements, which we explain below in reference to rosacea - causing flare-ups of severe visible inflammation along with pus filled bumps over the course of weeks or even months!

 Rosehip Oil for Rosacea

Rosehip oil is well-known as an anti-inflammatory ingredient and helps treat the inflammation associated with rosacea. Rosehip oil contains polyphenols and anthocyanin (a flavonoid with antioxidant effects).

Rosacea not only results in visibly inflamed skin but it also composes of small pustules/pimples that appear on the skin’s surface. Rosehip oil contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, and flavonoids with antioxidant properties, both of which assist in clearing pimples associated with rosacea.
.

Rosehip Oil for Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition characterised by itchy skin, inflammation, flaky skin, and dryness, and there are 7 different types of eczema, the most common being atopic dermatitis. Eczema occurs in dry skin that has low levels of essential fatty acid, which is also characteristic of a skin barrier that is compromised and unable to retain moisture to perform regular skin functions.

Providing your skin with hydration and the correct essential fatty acids (found in rosehip oil) can strengthen the skin’s barrier and protect cells. Due to the itchiness associated with eczema, eczema sufferers will often damage their skin further through scratching the skin - which may even result in scarring. Providing your skin with the necessary essential fatty acids can strengthen the skin’s barrier and repair it to restore the natural functions of the skin. A stronger skin barrier results in the skin being able to retain water, improving the state of chronically dry skin associated with eczema.

Rosehip Oil for Wrinkles

To understand how rosehip oil may reduce wrinkles, we need to first determine how wrinkles occur. Generally, wrinkles occur due to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, both of which are essential as connective tissues within the skin’s structure. This can occur as a result of sunlight exposure, or as we age naturally and our skin loses moisture which interrupts the skin barrier’s natural functions - helping to heal and protect the skin.

Rosehip oil contains essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid and linolenic acid, as well as vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A. All of these key acids and vitamins promote the production of collagen, fight free radicals, which damage the skin’s barrier and clear bacteria from pores, and encourage skin cell turnover and the skin barrier’s functions to perform optimally. A skin barrier that performs its normal functions optimally results in a stronger skin barrier, and skin that looks and feels healthier.

 Rosehip Oil for Aged Skin & Premature Ageing Skin

Extensive scientific research has shown that vitamin A acid has a positive effect on aged skin. It supports the keratin migration cycle that is responsible for a natural cell regeneration of the skin. After using Rosa mosqueta oil (obtained from Rosa rubiginosa) for three weeks on your skin topically, an increase in renewed cells in the epidermis is noticed. The cells are also stimulated to produce more collagen, which after a daily application of fourteen months, makes the skin look smoother, fresher, and more supple. Vitamin A acid also supports the natural process of removing old skin and clearing the hair follicle.

Rosehip Oil for Scars & Stretch Marks

A study, conducted on 52 people (out of 108 people) with dry skin who completed a treatment involving isotretinoin and remained with serious scars, provided significant successful preliminary results including the disappearance of erythema as in elevation of the base and softening scar edges within 6-12 weeks of applying pure rosehip mosqueta oil. Favourable effects on epithelialisation were also noted.

Vitamin A acid has also shown that (when applied topically over three months) scars were softened and the skin became flexible once again. Research indicates that topically applied oils containing essential fatty acids will speed up the wound-healing process by assisting the formation of prostaglandins. It’s not just excisional wound healing the rosehip oil is beneficial for, it’s also useful to treat scars resulting from acne and more serious breakouts.

This is largely due to rosehip oils' high concentration of essential fatty acids, which as we have covered above, assists in strengthening of the skin’s barrier and allows the skin to perform its natural functions - such as regenerating cells, which repairs damaged skin (and stimulation with keratin migration cycle), improves scars and helps damaged tissue.

Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched rapidly and the production of collagen is disrupted. Rosehip oil also promotes the synthesis of collagen and improves skin elasticity which is crucial for restoring overstretched skin.

Rosehip Oil and Hyperpigmentation & Skin Discoloration

As mentioned briefly earlier, rosehip oil contains vitamin A, which is effective at providing treatment for hyperpigmentation. Retinol (vitamin A) also inhibits the melanin-producing enzyme tyrosinase - interfering with pigment transfer and speeding up cell turnover through effective exfoliation.

The standard treatment for pigmentation involves the combination of exfoliating existing stained skin and blocking of melanin production to slow down new pigmentation - making vitamin A sound like a no-brainer. It should be noted that this isn’t the most effective ingredient when it comes to reducing hyperpigmentation and there are other ingredients out there for those experiencing severe cases of pigmentation.

Rosehip oil’s linoleic acid content may also reduce hyperpigmentation and does so by encouraging the turnover of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, which will assist in the removal of melanin pigment from the epidermis.

Other elements of rosehip, lycopene and beta carotene, are also said to provide skin lightening benefits, whilst studies conducted on rosehip oil in relation to animals have shown that rosehip oil does contain melanin-reducing properties.

How to Apply Rosehip Oil?

Although it is unlikely that rosehip oil will cause an allergic reaction, it is recommended to apply it to a small section of skin initially to test any negative interaction with your skin. Generally, rosehip oil should be applied up to twice per day, either by itself or you can add it to your daily moisturiser to enrich your skin’s hydration.

Which Skin Types Can Rosehip Oil Help?

In particular, rosehip oil is ideal for the following skin types:

• Oily skin
• Combination skin
• Sensitive skin
• Breakout-prone skin

Other Uses for Rosehip Oil

Rosehip Oil & Hair

Rosehip is suggested to be useful for improving hair growth and improving scalp health but more research still needs to be undertaken to determine the effectiveness of rosehip oil when it comes to scalp and hair health. The theory is that rosehip oil’s anti-inflammatory properties may assist in reducing inflammation associated with specific scalp conditions. It is also thought that due to rosehip oil’s potential benefits (associated with its key vitamins and fatty acids) that using rosehip oil would provide a healthier foundation for hair growth and create healthy roots. These hero hair growth elements are namely vitamin C, lycopene, and fatty acids.

Rosehip Oil & Pets

When used in shampoo/cleansing formulations, rosehip oil is reportedly great for calming skin irritation, itchiness and more. Dogs may also benefit from the inclusion of rosehip powder in their diet, with specific reference to alleviating skin conditions.

Rosehip Oil in Dietary Supplements

Rosehip oil may be introduced into one’s diet in the form of oil extract or powdered rosehip. It could be consumed on its own, or in the form of one of numerous rose hip by-products, such as rosehip tea, rosehip cordial, rosehip jelly, rosehip syrup or even rosehip vodka (although not all of these by-products are healthy dietary options).

If there is one part of our skin that we should take extra-special care of, it is the skin around our eyes. It is thinner and has fewer oil glands than the rest of the face, which means it shows signs of aging quicker. This thinness makes it more delicate, vulnerable and prone to allergic reactions and skin sensitivity.

Thankfully, there’s a whole category of specially formulated skincare products created to gently yet effectively treat and protect the delicate skin under and around the eyes. We break down exactly how you should be caring for this area, including tips, products and things you should never do.

• Why is it important to take care of the skin around your eyes?

Whether you’re applying concealer, using a waterproof eye makeup remover or smoothing on eye cream, it’s important to remember to handle the skin around the eyes with care. We know that this skin is extremely fragile because it’s among the thinnest on the body, but it’s also worth noting that eyes are the most mobile parts of the face. People blink an average of 10,000 times a day, which is why it’s the first area to be affected by the appearance of fine lines, also known as crow’s feet.

•   What is the difference between face moisturizer and eye cream?

A few questions always come up on the topic of eye creams, such as “Do I really need an eye cream?” and “What does eye cream do?” It’s reasonable to wonder why you need a separate cream for the eye area when you already have a perfectly good moisturizer for your face.While eye creams and facial moisturizers are similar, there are some key differences to be aware of. Generally speaking, moisturizers for the face are designed to increase hydration on the skin’s surface. An eye cream, on the other hand, is specifically formulated to be used under and around the eyes, where the skin is more delicate.

For those early signs of aging—crepiness, dryness and fine lines—choose eye care products that contain hydrating ingredients and have a light consistency. Dermatologists often recommend an eye care routine that includes products with eye-specific formulas that are lighter in texture, fragrance-free, ophthalmologist tested (which means cleared for safety by an eye doctor) and packed with moisturizing ingredients because the skin in this area dries out easily, which can intensify the appearance of fine lines. These creams also focus on reducing the appearance of puffy eyes and brightening dark circles.

• How to apply eye cream?

• • • Don’t get confused by the name; you shouldn’t apply eye cream too close to your eyes.
    • Avoid applying directly to eyelids or right next to the lash line, unless the product’s directions say otherwise.
    • Using your ring finger (it has the lightest pressure), gently dab a pea-size amount of product around the orbital bone and then smooth out any excess at the temples.
    • Never tug the skin; pulling will only contribute to the formation wrinkles.

If you’re using too much eye cream or perhaps not the right formula for your skin type, you could develop milia. Milia These are tiny white bumps that often form on cheeks and eyelids and under the eyes. If your eye cream is too heavy and you’re not cleansing your skin effectively, that’s when they can develop. Try swapping it for a lighter formula or an eye serum, but if the problem doesn’t go away consult a dermatologist.

• What does eye serum do? 

While both creams and serums work to moisturize and care for the delicate skin around the eyes, the latter might prove to deliver the results you desire faster than your go-to cream. Like the serums you use on your face, the best eye serum can penetrate deeper into the skin and deliver a higher dose of active ingredients. Regular use of an eye serum with antioxidants can help reverse crow’s feet and protect from further damage. Eye serums also absorb more easily without leaving any residue behind, making them perfect for application under makeup during the day.

• How to remove eye makeup?

You might think you’ve already mastered this step, but did you know there’s a right way and a wrong way to remove your makeup? The worst thing you can do for your eyes on a daily basis is to rub them, so be gentle when you use makeup remover. Pulling or tugging at your under eye skin can result in damage and break delicate blood vessels, so make sure you’re not simply relying on a skin cleanser to do the job. Instead, double cleanse with a face cleanser and eye makeup remover. The makeup remover will break down any makeup, remove dirt and excess oils from the day and clean your skin. The cleanser will address your particular skin type or concern and should have ingredients to hydrate, smooth or exfoliate and treat acne.

The best eye makeup remover is one that’s tailored to your skin type. If you have reactive skin, opt for an eye makeup remover for sensitive skin or micellar water. What is micellar water? Micellar water is a multi-use cleansing product made of purified water and micelles. Think of these micelles as tiny balls of cleansing oil suspended in water which make even the toughest waterproof makeup melt cleanly off skin with zero skin irritation.