Skincare
Skincare
How Our Eye Defense Serum Helps Brighten, Firm, and Protect the Skin Around Your Eyes
How our Eye defense serum can help improve the appearance of the skin around your eyes
Let's Talk About It!
What the heck is Astaxanthin and why is it beneficial?
Nature’s Retinol....Bakuchiol! Why is it becoming so popular?
Why are Ceramides essential in my skincare routine?
Microalgae in my skincare? Is that good?
What the heck is Astaxanthin and why is it beneficial?
Astaxanthin is one of the most potent antioxidants found in nature. Shown to be up to 6,000 times more effective at neutralizing free radicals than vitamin C and 800 times more effective than CoQ10. It also helps protect the skin from UV damage by quenching free radicals induced. Astaxanthin has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, promoting a more youthful complexion.
Antioxidant Protection: Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. By neutralizing free radicals, astaxanthin helps prevent premature aging of the skin, including the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
UV Protection: Astaxanthin has been shown to provide natural protection against UV radiation from the sun. It helps reduce sunburn and skin damage caused by UV exposure by scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation in the skin. Incorporating astaxanthin into your skincare routine may help enhance your skin's resilience to sun damage.
Skin Elasticity: Astaxanthin has been found to improve skin elasticity by promoting collagen production and inhibiting the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. This helps maintain firmness and suppleness, resulting in smoother and more youthful-looking skin.
Moisture Retention: Astaxanthin has hydrating properties that help improve the skin's ability to retain moisture. By strengthening the skin's natural barrier function, astaxanthin helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the skin hydrated and plump, reducing the appearance of dryness and roughness.
Reduction of Inflammation: Astaxanthin has anti-inflammatory effects that can help calm and soothe irritated or inflamed skin. It may be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin, as it can help alleviate redness, itching, and other signs of inflammation.
Brightening and Even Tone: Astaxanthin has been shown to help brighten the skin and even out skin tone by reducing the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Regular use of astaxanthin in skincare products may help promote a more radiant and uniform complexion.
Nature’s Retinol....Bakuchiol! why is it becoming so popular?
Although you probably are not sure how to pronounce it, you may have started to see the buzz about Bakuchiol. It is gaining popularity in skincare for several reasons, mainly because it offers similar benefits to retinol but with fewer potential side effects and harsh chemicals. Used in several of our anti-aging product formulations, we are huge fans of this powerhouse ingredient because:
Retinol-Like Benefits: Bakuchiol is often referred to as a natural alternative to retinol, a vitamin A derivative widely used in skincare for its anti-aging properties. Like retinol, Bakuchiol helps stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
Gentler on the Skin: Unlike retinol, which can cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially in sensitive skin types, Bakuchiol is generally well-tolerated and less likely to cause adverse reactions. It provides similar anti-aging benefits without the harsh side effects often associated with retinol, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Bakuchiol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the skin from oxidative stress, environmental damage, and inflammation. It helps neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated or inflamed skin, promoting overall skin health and resilience.
Promotes Skin Renewal: Bakuchiol enhances cell turnover and promotes skin renewal, resulting in a smoother, more radiant complexion. It helps exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin tone and texture, revealing fresher, healthier-looking skin.
Suitable for All Skin Types: Bakuchiol is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. Its gentle nature makes it a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into various skincare products, including our Age Defense, Eye Defense and Wrinkle Defense serums, to address a wide range of skin concerns.
Natural and Plant-Derived: Bakuchiol is derived from the seeds and leaves of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), a traditional medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. As consumers increasingly seek natural and plant-based skincare ingredients, Bakuchiol offers a botanical alternative to synthetic or chemical-based anti-aging ingredients.
Why are Ceramides essential in my skincare routine?
Ceramides are essential components of the skin's natural barrier function, playing a crucial role in maintaining hydration and protecting the skin from environmental stressors, pollutants, and irritants. Whether you have dry, sensitive, or aging skin, ceramides can be important for maintaining a healthy and radiant complexion with benefits such as:
Hydration: Ceramides help to form a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss and promoting hydration. By reinforcing the skin's natural barrier function, ceramides help to lock in moisture, keeping the skin soft, smooth, and supple.
Barrier Repair: External factors such as harsh weather, UV radiation, and pollution can compromise the skin's barrier function, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Ceramides help to repair and strengthen the skin's barrier, restoring its ability to retain moisture and protect against environmental damage.
Soothing and Calming: Ceramides have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. They can alleviate redness, itching, and discomfort associated with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, promoting overall skin health and comfort.
Anti-Aging: As we age, the skin's natural production of ceramides decreases, leading to a weakened barrier function and increased moisture loss. By replenishing ceramide levels in the skin, skincare products containing ceramides can help restore elasticity, firmness, and smoothness, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
Protection: Ceramides help to protect the skin from environmental aggressors such as pollution, UV radiation, and oxidative stress. By strengthening the skin's barrier, ceramides minimize the penetration of harmful substances into the skin, reducing the risk of damage and premature aging.
Compatibility: Ceramides are naturally found in the skin, making them well-tolerated and compatible with all skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin. Skincare products containing ceramides are generally gentle and non-irritating, making them suitable for daily use.
Microalgae in my skincare? Is that good?
Microalgae may sound unusual, but they are amazing! Microalgae offer a wide range of potential benefits for the skin, including hydration, antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory effects, skin brightening, and regenerative properties. Here are just a few reasons we love it:
Rich in Nutrients: Microalgae are tiny, single-celled organisms that are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. These nutrients can nourish the skin, replenish vital elements, and support overall skin health.
Hydration: Some species of microalgae contain polysaccharides and other compounds that help attract and retain moisture in the skin. By boosting hydration levels, microalgae can help plump up the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a smoother, more radiant complexion.
Antioxidant Protection: Microalgae are rich in antioxidants, such as astaxanthin, beta-carotene, and chlorophyll, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preventing them from causing premature aging and skin damage.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some types of microalgae have anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and soothe irritated or inflamed skin. They can alleviate redness, itching, and sensitivity, making them beneficial for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin.
Skin Brightening: Certain species of microalgae contain compounds that can help brighten the skin and even out skin tone by reducing the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Regular use of microalgae-based skincare products may help promote a more luminous and uniform complexion.
Regenerative Effects: Microalgae extracts have been shown to stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and accelerate the skin's natural renewal process. By promoting cell turnover and collagen synthesis, microalgae can help rejuvenate the skin, reduce the signs of aging, and improve overall skin texture and tone.
Environmental Sustainability: Microalgae cultivation is often more environmentally sustainable compared to traditional skincare ingredients derived from plants or animals. Microalgae can be grown using minimal resources, such as water and nutrients, and in some cases, they can even help purify air and water through photosynthesis.
Shop Our Entire Collection of Anti-Aging Skincare Products
Not all skincare products are created equally, especially all-natural skincare! At Simple Body, we have created each of our anti-aging products with intention and purpose. Formulated with powerful ingredients from nature, these anti-aging rockstars will live up to their promises and will soon be the skincare products you can't live without!
Simple Body High Performance Serums and Botanic Skin Tonics Launch Party
Join us for Simple Body’s product launch party! Discover four new High-Performance Serums and three Botanical Skin Tonics designed to elevate your skincare.
Tone Sensitive Skin with our Brightening Botanical Skin Tonic
A gentle, alcohol-free tonic with chamomile, aloe, and peony extracts to calm, hydrate, and restore balance to even the most sensitive skin.
Introducing our Age-Defying Botanical Skin Tonic: A Revitalizing Botanical Skin Tonic
Our Age-Defying Botanical Skin Tonic is a lightweight, hydrating, and revitalizing formula. Infused with floral water as its base, it cleanses and invigorates the skin, preparing it for your serums and moisturizers. This alcohol-free formula has two types of humectants that help draw moisture into your skin. Inside, you will find powerful botanicals like Bakuchiol, Red Clover, and Green Tea extract–all renowned for their age-defying properties. Harness the power of botanical extracts to moisturize and rejuvenate your skin while honoring your skin’s delicate microbiome.
Brighten the Eye Area and Smooth the Appearance of Fine Lines with our Eye Defense Serum
Our Eye Defense High-Performance Serum is designed to reduce puffiness, brighten skin, and restore a youthful appearance with its potent active ingredients. Our innovative wrinkle-smoothing complex is combined with a blend of natural oils including Rosehip Seed, Squalane, Evening Primrose, and Camellia Oil. All are carefully combined to leave the eye area bright and healthy-looking while smoothing the appearance of fine lines.
Restore a Youthful Appearance with High Performance Serum
Defend your skin against aging with Age Defense Serum. This potent blend of CoQ10, Bakuchiol, and botanical oils restores elasticity and a radiant, youthful glow.
Repair and Strengthen Your Skin's Lipid Barrier
Soothe and protect sensitive skin with Barrier Defense Serum. This powerful blend of ceramides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid restores balance and hydration for a smoother, stronger complexion.
High-Performance Serum: Wrinkle Defense with Hyaluronic Acid
Discover our Wrinkle Defense High-Performance Serum — a dual hyaluronic acid formula that hydrates deeply, reduces fine lines, and restores youthful, radiant skin.
Reasons to Not Fear INCI Nomenclature in Ingredient Labels
Skincare labels can be confusing—but understanding INCI nomenclature helps you take control of what you put on your skin. This guide breaks down what INCI means, why it matters, and how to translate ingredient names using trusted resources like the EWG Skin Deep Database and Think Dirty app.
Benefits of using Botanicals in Skincare
When you think of plants, you don't necessarily think of fat, oil, or butter. In fact, for health reasons, most people consume plants because of their low-fat content. But plants have volatile fat (essential oils) and fixed oils like triglycerides, sterols, waxes, etc., with many health benefits, especially for the skin! So, in this article, we'll discuss some of the benefits of using moisturizing plant botanicals on your skin, highlighting a few of our favorites and Simple Body products that contain them.
Improves Skin Barrier Function
Our skin is our first line of defense against harmful pathogens. The skin barrier is like a wall on the outer layer of our skin with a gatekeeper that decides which substances can pass through and which ones to block. Unfortunately, many things can compromise the integrity of this wall. One of them is dehydration! As we age, our skin has a more challenging time retaining moisture. Dehydrated skin is not only more susceptible to damage, fine lines, and wrinkles, but it also damages our skin barrier. Also, inflammatory skin conditions (Atopic Dermatitis) can diminish skin hydration and increase the amount of water lost through the skin (transepidermal water loss). Thankfully, regular application of the right moisturizing botanicals can prevent skin barrier damage and repair skin barrier function.
Modulates Inflammation and Repair
Inflammation is a normal part of the skin repair process. Generally, when an injury to the skin occurs, an army of different immune cells is sent to the area for damage control. This army of cells gets busy repairing tissues and preventing and controlling infection, but the increase of cells in a localized area results in inflammation. Unfortunately, inflammation can damage skin tissue if an injury is too big or takes a long time to heal. Many moisturizing botanicals have skin healing (vulnerary) and anti-inflammatory properties that can help control inflammation, especially when it's chronic.
Prevents Skin Damage and Aging
It is normal for skin to age over time. However, there are several ways we can limit skin damage by minimizing external factors that influence the health of our skin. Things like air pollution, smoking, and long-term exposure to harmful UV rays can cause free radical damage (cell structure changes) to our skin. Many plant botanicals contain antioxidants or anti-free radical molecules. When we apply botanical moisturizers that contain antioxidants, some cell repair can occur and prevent skin damage and aging.
Beneficial Moisturizing Botanical Oils and Butters
Cocoa Butter (theobroma cacao)
Antioxidants in cocoa butter protect skin from free radical damage, preventing premature aging and damage. In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe dry, sensitive skin and reduce swelling, irritation, and redness.
Simple Body Products: Cocoa Butter is one of the main ingredients in our Daily Face Cream and Body Butters.
Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis)
High in wax esters, this oil closely resembles the oil your skin already makes (sebum), making it an excellent choice for altered skin barrier issues and acne-prone skin. This anti-inflammatory botanical moisturizing oil prevents and soothes skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and extreme dry patches.
Simple Body Products: Beauty Balm, Makeup Remover, Nightly Face Serum, and Body Lotion
Avocado Oil (Persea gratissima or Persea americana)
This moisturizing botanical increases collagen synthesis. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it perfect for dry, chapped, or damaged skin.
Simple Body Products: Daily Face Cream and Body Butter
Olive Oil (Olea europaea)
Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, Olive oil is a wonderful oil for your skin, especially those extra-dry places. However, avoid using this oil on areas that are acne-prone or sensitive.
Simple Body Products: Makeup Remover and Nightly Face Serum
Moisturizing Botanicals like Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Oil, Avocado Oil, and Olive oil contain valuable constituents like triglycerides, phospholipids, and antioxidants. Topical application helps promote skin healing, control inflammation, and help fight oxidative stress with their antioxidant properties. Give Simple Body's hydrating botanicals a try today!
References:
Scapagnini, G., Davinelli, S., Di Renzo, L., De Lorenzo, A., Olarte, H. H., Micali, G., Cicero, A. F., & Gonzalez, S. (2014). Cocoa bioactive compounds: significance and potential for the maintenance of skin health. Nutrients, 6(8), 3202–3213. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu6083202
Lin, T. K., Zhong, L., & Santiago, J. L. (2017). Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. International journal of molecular sciences, 19(1), 70. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms19010070
Fall Skincare Tips: How to Keep Skin Healthy During Back-to-School Season
Fall weather, busy routines, and cooler air can leave skin dry or dull. Discover simple fall skincare tips—from hydration habits to natural beauty swaps.
Natural Skincare Products and Earth Day Go Together!
Every Earth Day reminds me why I started Simple Body in the first place. Years ago, I was deeply disturbed by reports revealing how cosmetics—especially those with plastic microbeads—were harming our planet’s waterways and marine life. It became clear that beauty shouldn’t come at the expense of the environment. That realization sparked a journey to create skincare that’s both effective and earth-conscious—formulated with clean ingredients, sustainable packaging, and a commitment to protecting the natural world that inspires us every day.
Reveal Healthy Skin with this AHA Botanical Skin Tonic
Our glowing AHA Botanical Skin Tonic is designed as a daily, gentle exfoliator that will help to remove any residual makeup, dirt, or oil. It is highly recommended to prepare your skin for additional serums and moisturizers that may come next in your skincare routine. Our proprietary formula harnesses the powers of lemon, peony, and bilberry extracts intricately blended with sugar maple, sugar cane, and orange to reveal healthy, glowing skin. Using it daily inspires higher cell turnover, leaving you with brighter, smoother, and younger-looking skin.
The Climate Effect: How Weather Affects Your Skincare Routine
As a person who cares about the health and the appearance of their skin, you may already be aware of the importance of finding a skincare routine that works for you. But, did you know that the climate you live in can also have a significant impact on your skin?
It's true! The weather and environmental conditions in your location can affect your skin's needs, which means that you may need to adjust your skincare routine to accommodate these changes. In this blog, we'll explore the effects of climate on your skin and how you can adapt your skincare routine to suit your local environment.
Let's start by looking at how different climates affect your skin.
The Effect of Cold Weather on Your Skin
If you live in a colder climate, you may have noticed that your skin becomes dry and flaky during the winter months. This is due to the lack of humidity in the air, which can strip moisture from your skin and lead to dryness and irritation.
Keeping your skin moisturized during the colder months is essential to combat these effects. Try our Daily Face Cream, Beauty Balm, Nightly Face Serum, and Pomegranate Oil for added moisture on your face. Body Butter and Body Lotion both provide moisture to your whole body. Using a humidifier in your home can also add moisture to the air. It's also a good idea to avoid taking hot showers, as the hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and lead to further dryness. Instead, opt for lukewarm water, which will be gentler on your skin.
Another tip is to avoid overusing alcohol-based toners and astringents, as these can further dry out your skin. Instead, opt for toners and astringents like Rosewater toner.
The Effect of Hot Weather on Your Skin
If you live in a warmer climate, you may have noticed that your skin becomes oilier and more prone to breakouts during the hot weather months. This is due to the increased production of sebum (an oil produced by the sebaceous glands in your skin) in response to heat and humidity.
Keeping your skin clean and refreshed during the hotter months is essential to combat these effects. This can be achieved through the use of a gentle, oil-free cleanser that won't strip your skin of its natural oils, like our Foaming Face Wash. Use a toner, like Clean Sweep Toner, to help remove excess oil and keep your pores clean.
In addition to using the right skincare products, staying hydrated is essential by drinking plenty of water and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. If you do need to be outside for an extended period, be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Shop a variety of All Good Sunscreen here.
The Effect of Dry Weather on Your Skin
If you live in a dry climate, you may have noticed that your skin becomes dry and sensitive, and you may be more prone to developing fine lines and wrinkles. This is due to the lack of humidity in the air, which can strip moisture from your skin and lead to dryness and irritation.
To combat these effects, it's essential to keep your skin moisturized at all times. Like living in a colder climate, use a daily moisturizer and a humidifier, and avoid stripping your skin with harsh ingredients. It's also a good idea to avoid using hot water when washing your face.
In conclusion, the climate you live in can significantly impact your skin and its needs. By understanding how your location's weather and environmental conditions affect your skin, you can adapt your skincare routine to suit your local environment and keep your skin healthy and nourished. Whether you live in a cold, hot, or dry climate, there are simple steps you can take to protect and nourish your skin, including staying hydrated, using the right skincare products, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. By following these tips and finding a skincare routine that works for you, you can enjoy healthy, glowing skin no matter where you live.
xoxo,Jewels
How to choose the right skincare products for your skin type
Finding the right skincare can feel overwhelming—but it starts with knowing your skin type. In this post, we break down the four main skin types (oily, dry, combination, and sensitive) and share how to choose products that work with your skin, not against it.
The Real Benefits of Organic Skincare (and Why It’s Worth the Switch)
Choosing organic skincare isn’t just about avoiding chemicals—it’s about giving your skin what it truly needs. In this post, we explore how organic ingredients nurture sensitive skin, support small farmers, and protect the planet while delivering real, visible results.
5 Reasons to Switch to All-Natural Skincare
Synthetic ingredients can stress your skin and the planet. In this post, we share five science-backed reasons to switch to all-natural skincare for a healthier glow and a lighter footprint.
The Best Products and Tips for Athlete Skin Care
What Sort of Products Should Be Included in Athlete Skin Care? Let's Find Out!
School is back in session! That means the sports season is also in full swing. A lot of teenagers come to see us about acne, which is especially difficult to control while they are in sports. Let's discuss some causes of acne, prevention strategies, and products that can help the athletes in your family this fall sports season.
Causes
It's no secret that hormonal changes during adolescence contribute to an increase in acne formation. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, 85% of people between 12 and 24 experience acne. So, why is this? Hormones can cause the overproduction of keratin, a fibrous protein on the skin. They also trigger pores to enlarge and more sebum to be produced. Sebum is a waxy substance secreted by our sebaceous glands that keeps skin smooth and soft. Combine too much keratin, enlarged pores, and increased sebum with bacteria, and you have a recipe for blocked, inflamed pores. When this happens, pustules, inflammation, or even cystic nodules can form on the skin. Essentially, this is how hormonal changes can lead to the zit-formation process.
Besides hormonal changes, athletes are especially vulnerable to acne issues. When we exercise, our bodies eliminate toxins through the pores of our skin and lungs. However, most sports require athletes to wear uniforms and equipment during practice and games that constrict air flow and make it difficult for the skin to breathe. Gear like chinstraps, shoulder pads, knee pads, and helmets keep athletes safe during play, but these things can also trap heat, moisture, and bacteria against the skin. This combo creates the perfect environment for acne (Acne Mechanica) to form. Once the irritation, inflammation, and acne formation begins, it can be difficult for the skin to heal without giving it a break from whatever is causing the issue. Not something easy to do mid-season! Fortunately, there are strategies to implement to help skin stay healthy all season long.
Natural Preventative Measures
Athletes may be unable to control the type of equipment they are required to wear or the environmental conditions in which they perform. However, athletes can care for their skin in ways that will mitigate acne outbreaks. Here are a few recommendations:
Clean any shared equipment before and after you use it. Bacteria can spread quickly from athlete to athlete when coaches don't firmly establish hygienic practices with their team beforehand. Examples include properly sanitizing uniforms, knee pads, and even weightlifting equipment.
Remove sweaty workout clothes after practice or a game and shower immediately. If a shower isn't available right away, carry a travel-size Clean Sweep Toner in your gym bag, spritz a cotton pad and apply it to acne-prone areas as a quick solution in this circumstance. Change into a fresh set of clothing until you can shower.
Wearing looser fitting clothing during practice, preferrable with moisture-wicking technology, can allow the skin to breathe and sweat to evaporate.
Choose cleansers without synthetic fragrance or harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. But limit using cleansers more than two times a day. Any more than that, and you can do more harm than good!
Diet can also influence your athletes' skin. Avoid eating foods that contain a lot of sugar, dairy, and trans-fatty acids. Eat colorful fruits and vegetables with vitamins and minerals that promote skin health.
Drink at least 64 ounces of water a day. Athletes who sweat a lot will need even more! Keeping your insides hydrated keeps your skin hydrated.
Simple Body Solutions
Simple Body has several solutions for athletes with acne-prone skin. Developing a regular skincare routine can go a long way toward preventing problems this sports season.
In the morning, cleanse your face with Lavender Foaming Face Wash. Made with Lavender Tea and vegetable glycerin (which is a skin moisturizer for extremely dry skin), this wash naturally cleans without drying out the skin.
Next, mist a cotton pad with Clean Sweep Toner and apply it to the face and acne-prone areas to clean dirt and oil from pores and tone the skin.
Applying moisturizer to acne-prone skin may seem counterintuitive. However, the combination of oils and butter in our Daily Face Cream closely resembles the sebum our sebaceous glands naturally make. Dry skin can make our body believe it needs to produce more oil. Consistent application of Daily Face Cream can balance oil production and prevent breakouts.
Use Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil and Lavender Lavandula angustifolia essential oil in a 1:1 ratio to spot-treat breakouts.
Perspiration and sweat are two ways our bodies naturally eliminate toxins. That doesn't mean you have to stink! Although we do not recommend antiperspirants, we have all-natural, effective deodorants that absorb odor. Try Lavender, Himalayan Magic, Cedar+Clove, Citrus Burst, or Unscented Deodorant options from Simple Body.
Sports are a fantastic way to learn how to care for our bodies through exercise and movement. Even though some skin issues are hormonally and genetically predisposed, we can influence many things in our environment to prevent and mitigate acne outbreaks and have healthy skin on and off-season.
xoxoJewels
Three Ways to Exfoliate Skin
What Are the Various Ways to Exfoliate Skin? Let's Break it Down!
Our skin is the largest organ of the body and makes up about 15% of our body weight. It acts as a protective barrier against things that could potentially cause biological and physical harm. Unfortunately, as we age, the production of new skin cells slows, and so does the shedding of dead skin cells. One of the ways we can assist skin regeneration is to exfoliate skin and remove dead skin cells. When we exfoliate, we stimulate cells in the lower layers to grow. Also, by removing buildup on the surface of our skin, we decrease the appearance of wrinkles. But how do you know which type of exfoliation is right for you? At Simple Body, we offer several exfoliation methods like Clay Masks, Enzyme Masks, and Bamboo Face Polish. Let's discuss the benefits and differences between each type.
Exfoliate with Clay Masks
Using clay to care for skin dates back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Why are clay masks so effective? The clay dries on the skin and absorbs impurities by drawing toxins out, unclogging, tightening, and refining pores. And then, when you remove the mask with warm water, you exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving soft and radiant skin in its place. There are several different kinds of clay masks. Here are a few options:
French Green Clay
This clay contains a combination of minerals like montmorillonite, dolomite, magnesium, calcium, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, silicon, copper, and selenium. It also contains elements of rich, decomposed plant material, like kelp and algae. This clay works well to exfoliate oily or combination skin.
White Kaolin Clay
With anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, kaolin clay prevents acne, absorbs excess oil, and gently exfoliates the skin. This clay is the best choice to exfoliate sensitive or thin skin.
French Caramel Clay
Composed of mostly llite, Kaolin, and Montmorillonite, this mineral clay mask cleanses, detoxifies, tones, and exfoliates. Suitable for all skin types, French Caramel Clay revitalizes dull-looking skin.
Pick one day each week to treat yourself with a Clay mask, like "Mask Mondays!" If you have dry skin, mix clay with an oil, like jojoba oil or almond. Other ideas include mixing clays with witch hazel, aloe vera, or rosewater toner! A little tip: Clay can clog drains and cause problems with plumbing. So remove the clay mask with a wet, warm paper towel before washing it off with a warm cloth.
Exfoliate with Enzyme masks
Another way to exfoliate dead skin cells is with an enzyme mask. Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions and accelerate the removal of dead skin cells (essentially, eating them). Some fruit naturally contains enzymes like bromelain in pineapple, papain in papaya, and alpha-hydroxy acids in pumpkin. When applied to the skin, enzymes go to work, resurfacing and exfoliating. Enzyme masks are full of nutrients like antioxidants and bioflavonoids, which are great for acne-prone skin that can be irritated with harsh exfoliation. Leave on for 10- 15 minutes and remove with warm water. Simple Body's Pineapple and Papaya enzyme mask is suitable for all skin types! Our Pumpkin enzyme mask deeply exfoliates but may not be ideal for sensitive skin. You can use enzyme masks once a week to brighten and restore softness to the skin.
Exfoliate with Bamboo Face Polish:
Many exfoliating products on the market contain tiny, plastic microbead particles that find their way into our water systems, harming aquatic life. Thankfully, nature provides us with exfoliating alternatives that don't harm the environment. Bamboo stem extract contains about 70% silica and offers a naturally abrasive exfoliant rich in amino acids and flavonoids. Our Bamboo Face Polish also contains White Kaolin clay (see above), coconut oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E, and glycerin, a humectant that draws water into the skin. This fantastic method of exfoliation removes dead skin cells and impurities without over-drying your skin! Our favorite way to use this polish is in the shower. Once a week, scoop a small amount of Bamboo Face Polish between your fingers and apply it to wet skin. Gently massage in a circular motion avoiding the eyes. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. We refer to this excellent scrub as "microdermabrasion in a bottle!"
Now that you know the differences and benefits of three exfoliation methods, it's time to make them a part of your weekly skincare routine. The Clay masks, Enzyme masks, and Bamboo Face Polish at Simple Body are all designed to empower you to have healthy, more radiant skin. After you exfoliate, it's critical to use a lotion & moisturizer for dry skin. So, be sure to apply Daily Face Cream and Beauty Balm to lock in moisture. We are happy to help you solve your skincare questions, so feel free to contact us for more exfoliation ideas and recipes.
Save Money with Dual-Use Products
We love products that multitask! From our rose-infused Cleansing Oil that removes makeup and hydrates, to other dual-use essentials, Simple Body makes it easy to simplify your skincare routine while keeping it effective, natural, and beautifully simple.
Herbal Treatments for Skin Healing
At Simple Body, we use botanical ingredients for a reason. Learn how five powerful herbs—calendula, chamomile, marshmallow, St. John’s Wort, and yarrow—nurture and restore skin the natural way.
Skincare Tips for Summer
When the Heat is on...Here's Some Skincare Tips to Get you Through Summer
Summer is here! During the summer months, most of us spend more time outside gathering with friends, exercising, doing yard work, etc... Unfortunately, our skin takes a beating! Skin is the largest organ in the body, providing a flexible layer of protection between you and a potentially harsh environment. Let's talk about some skincare tips for summer skin while enjoying all your favorite outdoor activities.
Sun in Moderation
First things first… the sun is good for you! When our skin is exposed to the sun, it makes Vitamin D, an essential vitamin and hormone. But too much sun exposure can cause problems like dry skin, damage, burns, and even skin cancer. Adding sunscreen to your morning routine (between Daily Face Cream and Beauty Balm) can help protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Also, have you ever looked at the ingredient label of your sunscreen and wondered what is worse, no sunscreen or putting all those unknown ingredients on your body? We are right there with you!
All Good Mineral Sunscreen
Thankfully, Simple Body now carries THINK Sunscreen! This sunscreen checks all the boxes for us. It uses the power of Non-Nano Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, two mineral-based ingredients that effectively block the sun's harmful rays. Since these two ingredients are too big to be absorbed by our pores, they stay on the surface of our skin, giving us protection without harming our bodies. This also protects sea life, including the coral reef, because they have pores, too! The best part is ALL Good sunscreens exclude a hefty list of toxic ingredients commonly found in Sunscreen. A few of these ingredients include Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Aminobenzoic Acid, Enzacamene, Octisalate, Homosalate, Avobenzone, Parabens, Phthalates, Tricosan, plastic, and Phenoxyethanol. All Good is also a certified B-Corporation, women-owned, Climate Neutral Certified, Cruelty-free, and Reef-Friendly. What's not to love?!
Regular Exfoliation
Some mineral-based sunscreens use nanoparticles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to prevent the white sheen they can leave behind. However, these nanoparticles are small enough to be absorbed by the skin, which defeats the purpose of using mineral-based sunscreen! We have an alternative solution that reduces the pasty white appearance of Mineral-based sunscreens. Exfoliation! Exfoliating your skin regularly will help you avoid looking like a walking highlighter at the beach. Simple Body recommends regular exfoliation on your face with a Clay Mask, Bamboo Face Polish, or Enzyme mask. For daily full-body exfoliation, add in a dry brushing routine before your shower. And then, use an all-natural pouf along with one of our emulsified sugar scrubs to gently exfoliate dead skin. This will give All Good Sunscreen a smooth surface to land on and leave you with a natural, sun-protected glow.
Simple Body Solutions for Sun-damaged Skin
Your skin also acts as a water storage station for the body. Dry, windy, and hot conditions make skin more susceptible to sunburns and other damage. If this happens to you, Simple Body Products can help! Applying Aloe Vera Gel to damaged skin is a safe and effective way to cool a sunburn. For more support, adults can add Lavender essential oil to Aloe Vera for even more support. Another excellent sunburn remedy is SImple Body's Beauty Balm! It is chocked full of ingredients that repair and protect damaged skin cells. This Balm has a significant amount of Vitamin C and Vitamin E, two of the most powerful antioxidants for the body. Carrot seed Daucus carota essential oil is another ingredient that makes Beauty Balm shine. The constituents in this oil help regenerate and protect cells, making it an effective remedy for dry, scarred, or sun-damaged skin.
So, before you head outside this summer, remember ways you can care for summer skin. Utilize Simple Body's full line of all-natural skincare products to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, protect your skin from the sun, and repair dry or damaged skin.
xoxoJewels
How to Read an Ingredient Label
You’re eating better, exercising, and focusing on your health—so why shouldn’t your skincare reflect that, too? In this post, we break down how to read ingredient labels and choose products that align with your healthy lifestyle and skin goals.
What's the Best Combination Skin Routine?
Here's the Breakdown on the Best Combination Skin Routine
Every person has a unique skin personality. Some people struggle with overly dry or oily skin, and others have both! Combination Skin can make skincare a challenge. You don't want to irritate oily or acne-prone areas, yet you need to moisturize the dry areas on your face. At Simple Body, we've developed a protocol for this skin type and believe it's the best combination skin routine available today.
Step 1: Wash
Our Chamomile Face Wash will gently cleanse your skin without removing all of your skin's natural oils. It contains vegetable glycerine, which is a humectant that will help to trap moisture in the sky and hydrate dry areas. Chamomile Tea, which is the base for our foaming face wash, has oil-absorbing properties which are fantastic for oily skin. It's important to wash your face morning and night.
Step 2: Tone
Choose a toner based on your skin sensitivity and breakouts. If you have oily skin and breakouts, our Clean Sweep Toner will help control excess oil and eliminate bacteria that often is the culprit for breakouts. If your skin is dry and patchy, choose our Rosewater Toner. Rosewater balances the natural oils and helps to hydrate any dry areas, keeping combination skin in check.
Step 3: Hydrate
In the morning, it's important to hydrate your skin with our Daily Face Cream. The cream will act as a barrier to protect your skin against pollutants, pollens, and free radicals in the air. It will also provide an important layer of moisture and nutrients for your skin. At night, however, use our Nightly Face Serum to hydrate. It's important to let your skin breathe and rejuvenate. Our lightweight oil allows oxygen to penetrate the cells and rebuild new skin cells.
Step 4: Nutrition
Give your skin a boost of nutrition with our Vitamin C Beauty Balm. It's packed with ingredients that will nourish and repair your skin. People with acne-prone skin tend to shy away from using oils on their skin; however, it's crucial that you use oils that closely resemble human sebum. This way the body will recognize the oil and allow it to absorb and nourish the skin. Use the Beauty Balm both day and night if you have intensely dry skin.
Step 5: Detox
Prepare a clay mask for your skin weekly. Our French Green Clay Mask will help absorb excess oil, remove impurities, and shrink pores. If you have acne or a few break-out spots, add 1 drop of tea tree to your clay mask to treat any bacteria that may be lingering on your skin.
Step 6: Exfoliate
Dead skin cells can clog your pores and make your skin look dull. Our all-natural Lavender + Frankincense Bamboo Face Polish utilizes ground bamboo stem, coconut oil, and white kaolin clay to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and moisturize your skin. Exfoliate at least once a week!
Step 7: Brighten
Apply an enzyme mask once a week to gently exfoliate and nourish your skin. Our Pineapple + Papaya Enzyme Mask (better for combination or sensitive skin) feeds your skin a plethora of antioxidants and leaves your skin feeling replenished, brightened, and soft.
Step 8: Spot Treat
People with Combination skin often experience too much oil in the T zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dry skin everywhere else. Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) and Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oils are both effective spot treatments for adult acne.
Formulate your own spot treatment:
SUPPLIES:
Roller Ball (Must be glass and dark-colored) available HERELavender Essential OilTea Tree Essential Oil
DIRECTIONS:
Remove the cap and roller ball. Add a 1:1 ratio of Lavender and Tea Tree Essential Oil to the container. Allow room for the ball to be placed back on the container. Add the cap and shake your oils for about 1 minute to blend. Apply as a spot treatment for acne.
If you would like to buy anti-aging products for Sensitive/Combination in a kit with easy-to-follow instructions, click HERE.
If you have additional questions about your combination skin, please email Jewels@simplebodyproducts.com or book a skincare consultation with us HERE.