From a Sunkissed Summer to Feeling Fall Fresh - How to Transition Your Skincare as the Seasons Change

If there’s one thing we can always count on in life, it’s change. Everything changes, and just when you think the dust has settled, things change again. Food trends and diets, fashion, hair styles…it all has its season and is prone to change. Just like our food, fashion, and hair flair are changing, our skincare routines are changing as well. 

When you think of seasonal skincare, you might already know that the lotions, moisturizers, and other skincare products you use now are not going to be the same ones you use moving into a new season. As fall approaches and the weather begins to change, your skin will have different needs to adapt to the new environment. 

What can you expect as you transition from summer to fall? Here are some fall skincare tips that can get you thinking about it. 

The Autumn Environment

Temperatures may be feeling colder, but they’re also drier. Fluctuations in outdoor temps and conditions are common in the fall. For example, in the changing season, you may see sun, clouds, rain, and wind all in the same day! That’s a lot for your skin to adjust to at one time. 

Along with changing outdoor temperatures and conditions, we also tend to start moving indoors more where our skin encounters things like indoor heating. With that, our skin has to make even more adjustments as it acclimates to what can sometimes be a drier indoor environment. Sometimes, having a humidifier on hand in your home office or bedroom can help make the transition smoother. 

As colder temperatures surround us, we might be tempted to indulge in a long, hot shower or two. Maybe even a hot bath. While it can feel luxurious and cozy in the moment, too much heat from hot water can be yet ANOTHER assault on sensitive skin. 

All of these changes can wreak havoc on all skin types and call for some big changes to our skincare routines.

What Happens to Your Skin as the Seasons Change

Skin is the body’s largest organ and it’s the first defense in protecting your body from outside intruders such as pollution and allergens. When outside conditions change, your skin will react in an attempt to adjust to the new circumstances.

Skin responds to changing conditions in various ways. For instance, it can become inflamed, dry, flaky or cracked. When this happens, pores can clog more easily from excess dry skin or sebum production. This irritation can often stem from colder winds that can dry out our skin’s protective barrier.

What Your Skin Needs in the Fall

So what can you do when weather conditions change before your skin starts to suffer? First off, you can pay attention to what your skin is telling you. Changes in your environment equals changes to your skincare routine.

One important step you may need to alter in your skincare routine will be hydration. This isn’t just limited to the hydrating products you place on your skin, but the general amount of hydration that your body gets. Drink more water, use a humidifier, and then also add in super hydrating serums and moisturizers to your fall skincare routine. Heavier lotions and creams, as opposed to the lighter moisturizers from your summer routine, will help protect your skin from the drying influence of fall weather. 

Resist the urge to use hot water for your skincare routine, as well as hot showers. We know, it’s a hard temptation to steer clear of. But hot water will further irritate your skin and make any existing irritation worse. Lukewarm water and gentle cleansers are a better choice. This doesn’t mean you have to ditch the hot tubs and bubble baths entirely, just go sparingly with them. 

One thing that isn’t going out of style this season though is exfoliating. It’s still important and can help your skin to absorb moisturizer more deeply. Just remember to be gentle with inflamed skin that’s been overexposed to the elements of fall. Choosing products that use natural ingredients in their formulas can help your skin stay healthy when it comes time to stick to a new skincare routine. 

Why You Still Need Sunscreen

Just because summer sun is soon to be hiding behind the clouds, doesn’t mean you can stop using sunscreen. Using sunscreen year round is essential. Many experts agree that protecting your skin from harmful UV rays from the sun is something you need to do all of the time. 

Use it on a train, in the sun, on a plane, or in the rain! In your office, in a car, wherever you are!

Yes, whether you’re indoors or out, and regardless of the time of year, the sun is always out there sending warmth, Vitamin D, and happy bright light. But at the same time, too much of a good thing in the form of UV rays can cause damage to all skin types. 

Using a good broad spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF year round is a necessity for healthy skin. 

How to Shift Your Scent

Moving into fall brings a shift in the types of scents all around us. Things like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, amber, vanilla, and woodsy, earthy smells delight our senses. They all smell so good! But it goes even deeper than that. 

We process smells through the olfactory bulb, which is a structure in front of our brains that sends info to the central command area for further processing. Scents and odors go to the limbic system, including the amygdala and the hippocampus, both of which are related to emotion and memory.

In fact, smell is the only fully developed sense a fetus has in the womb. You might say our sense of smell has a long history of emotional and memorable attachments.  

So it’s no wonder that scents affect us in more ways than just smelling good. For example, pumpkin spice can feel soothing and comforting, and Sandalwood is known for its qualities of balance and relaxation. Amber Vanilla can feel warm and luxurious. The scents that we associate with fall tend to reflect the seasonal features of the season, so it makes sense that the smells of autumn are related to grounding and slowing down. After a busy summer of activity, the natural cycle of the next season is one of reaping the harvest and taking a well deserved rest. 

By finding a fall themed scent that smells good to you, you can help your body adjust to the changing season. Balancing your mindset with your environment can help create feelings of being centered and relaxed.

Transitioning to autumn in both skincare and new scents of the season is a natural part of your seasonal skincare routine for healthy skin. By using extra moisturizers, regular sunscreen, and following some extra tips for dry skin in colder weather, you can continue to protect your skin, just like it protects you!

All About Exfoliation & Why It’s Essential for Healthy, Happy Skin

Does your skin care routine include exfoliation? 

Maybe you’re unsure of proper exfoliation techniques, or haven’t heard of the many benefits of exfoliation yet. Maybe you’re not even sure what exfoliation is! If this is a new concept to you, then read on to learn the basics of skin exfoliation and what it can do for you.

What Is Exfoliation? 

According to an article on Healthline, the definition of exfoliation is, “the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a chemical, granular substance, or exfoliating tool.”  

Your skin makes new cells about every 30 days. Those old cells have to shed and go away! But sometimes your skin may need a little help to get there. If they’re not shedding naturally on their own, you might see flaky patches or develop clogged pores. 

By using exfoliating products as part of a regular skin care routine, you can help your skin shed the old cells, leaving you with softer, brighter looking skin, and make it easier for skin to absorb other skin care products.

Types of Exfoliation  

There are many different types of products for skin exfoliation, but it basically comes down to two different methods: chemical or physical. 

Chemical methods include products with things like AHA’s ( Alpha Hydroxy Acids), and BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids). AHA’s are water soluble and might be best for dry skin. AHA’s like glycolic acid can break through the surface layers to enable moisturizers to get to your new skin cells and hydrate them. AHA’s can also help with age spots, scars, fine lines, and uneven skin tones. 

BHA’s are oil soluble and can go deep into hair follicles where they can dry excess oils. One common BHA is salicylic acid and is often used for treating acne, redness, and inflammation. BHA’s tend to soothe irritated skin, like with sun damage. But if your skin is inflamed from things like Eczema and Rosacea it’s best to check with your dermatologist for specific treatments that are designed just for you.

Physical methods of exfoliation include things like cleansing scrubs, exfoliating mitts, brushes and loofahs. These types of exfoliants are easy to use at home and facial scrubs can be homemade as well. 

Tools

Handheld brushes with cleanser are one of the easiest tools for starting out. They are easy to purchase and can be used with a cleanser you already have. Making circular motions with gentle pressure is one simple technique to shed dead skin cells. Then wash your face with warm water and remember to always clean your brush or exfoliating mitt when you’re done! 

Motorized cleansing brushes are the next step up. Some have multiple vibration modes and most have soft silicone bristles. You should take it easy with this type of tool and be careful not to scrub too aggressively though. The motorized brush is already doing the scrubbing for you. 

Textures 

Using different types of cleansers for your face and your body is a good rule of thumb. Your face is much more sensitive so don’t use a scrub that’s meant for your body on your face.

Let your skin be your guide when choosing types of exfoliation. Even on your face, you might have both dry and oily places on your skin, so pay attention to what you need. If your skin changes, don’t be afraid to change your products along with it. 

When choosing a type of exfoliation product, consider the right one for your skin type. Some are softer and some are more gritty. Some may come as a mask or as a peel and some are used more as a face wash and require less time to sit on the skin. 

Over exfoliating can be damaging to your skin. You need to know your skin type to be able to make the best choice for all of your skin care routine products. If you’re not sure what type of skin you have, you can take a quiz here to help you find out. 

Benefits of Regular Exfoliation

If you’re still wondering if skin exfoliation is for you, consider the benefits of including proper exfoliation techniques as part of a regular skin care routine. 

Here’s just a few examples of the benefits of skin exfoliation:

• Removes dead skin cells to help reveal fresher, younger-looking skin

• Improves skin texture which results in smoother, more even skin tones

• Allows skin care products to penetrate deeper and work more effectively

• Reduces the occurrence of acne and blackheads by unclogging pores

• Supports firmer, more resilient skin by stimulating collagen production

• Brightens the complexion, reducing dullness and promoting a radiant glow

How to Exfoliate Properly 

Once you’ve determined your skin type and considered the options for skin exfoliation, it’s time to put it to work. Adding a proper exfoliation technique is important and knowing when and how to do it will provide the best results. 

If you’re using a physical exfoliant, aiming for about 30 seconds of scrubbing should be adequate before rinsing. Be mindful to avoid sensitive areas like the skin around the eyes. For a chemical exfoliant, read the instructions and follow the directions to ensure the best results. Remember to use your sunscreen after exfoliating during the day too! Your new skin cells will be more sensitive to sun damage. 

If your skin is oily, you may be able to gently exfoliate daily, but for most skin types, limit exfoliation to once or twice a week. Within your routine, a freshly cleansed face is the perfect time for exfoliation. It doesn’t matter if it’s a part of your morning or evening routine. For example, if your face tends to be dull when you wake up, then use an exfoliant to brighten your skin. If you prefer to use one after removing make-up and environmental debris from the day, then use it at night. Either way, be sure to follow up with a good moisturizer and any serums your skin needs.  

DIY Facial Exfoliants 

Making your own facial exfoliants at home is pretty easy. Use a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil for a base, then add other ingredients like brown sugar or coffee grounds to give it some “grit” to help shed the dead skin cells. Common kitchen items like yogurt, finely ground oats, and raw honey are a few more examples used in homemade facial exfoliants. You can find directions on how to make them here on Healthline. 

Your skin is vulnerable to all kinds of things. Age, hormones, other skin products, and the sun are just a few that come to mind. And all the while, your skin is working on replenishing and regenerating healthy cells all by itself. Most of the time it’s doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. But honestly, in today's world, it could use a little help.

Including proper exfoliation techniques as part of a regular skin care routine can leave your skin feeling healthier, smoother, and glowing! 

Soak Up the Sun, Not the Damage: Your Complete Summer Sunscreen Guide

As we settle into summer, it’s easy to get caught up in soaking up the sun’s rays and enjoying the hot weather we’ve been waiting for! The feel of the warmth on our skin and the beautiful glowing tan can seem like an exotic trip without even having to leave home. But in the midst of this folly comes a bit of reality. That voice inside your head may be saying something like, “Be mindful of the amount of sun rays you’re soaking up!”

It’s true, some amount of UV rays can be beneficial. We get Vitamin D from the sun’s rays, and that can affect our moods in a positive way. But the amount of time you can spend in the sun safely can vary from person to person, depending on the intensity of the sun and how sensitive you are to it. Learning a few sun safety tips can help.

Sun protection, in the form of sunscreen, is something that everyone needs on some level, whether indoors or out, and whether it’s cloudy or sunny. Protecting your skin from sunburn, skin cancer, premature aging, and wrinkles is your best defense for appearance and good health. So it might be helpful to learn a bit more about how and why to use sunscreen.

The History of Sun Protection

As it turns out, people have been trying to protect their skin for quite a long time! Throughout history, sunscreen has played a part in shielding harmful UV rays. We don’t know exactly how much people knew about sun safety tips in ancient times, but we do know they used homemade concoctions to prevent sunburn and skin damage. 

A thick layer of rice bran paste was popular as a natural sunscreen because it absorbs UV rays so well. It’s still used in some mineral sunscreens today for sun protection but sunscreen has evolved over the years, thank goodness, so we don’t have to walk around slathered in rice bran paste anymore!

Covering skin with clothing, utilizing silk umbrellas, and finding shade were all good ideas that were used in the past too…and they’re still good ideas today. For more sun safety tips and sun protection today, let's take a look at what the modern world has to say about it. 

Why Sunscreen is Important 

Ancient civilizations might have known that the sun could cause burning, aging, and overall discomfort but today, we know why. When too much sun causes damage to the DNA in skin cells, they are unable to function as they’re supposed to. This can lead to things like skin cancer and premature aging. Burning skin is an obvious sign of skin damage, and everyone knows it just plain hurts to have a sunburn, but even tanning is a sign of skin damage and should be avoided. If you really want that tanned look, you might consider using fake tanning products. 

Even then, read the labels and use natural products as much as possible. 

Using sunscreen with SPF is one of the best sun safety tips to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. But what does SPF even mean?

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) plays a role in how much sun protection you need to apply. The SPF number indicates how much protection you get. For example, an SPF 30 protects skin thirty times longer than if you were not wearing any sunscreen at all. In turn, SPF 50 protects skin fifty times longer. Another way to look at it is how much UV light is filtered. SPF 30 blocks 96.7% of UV rays. SPF 50 blocks up to 98%.

Ingredients to Avoid 

One of the best ways to choose a good summer sunscreen is by reading the labels and educating yourself about safe sunscreen ingredients. Not all ingredients are good for you, or the environment. 

Some chemical sunscreen ingredients have been on the naughty list for quite some time and are worth avoiding. These include:

• Avobenzone

• Oxybenzone

• Octinoxate

When you see these chemicals in the ingredients lists, it might be best to look for a more natural sunscreen product. 

Ingredients like these can be harmful to the environment, as well as irritating to your skin. Using water safe sunscreens can help protect your skin when you swim and keep marine life safe too! 

Also, be mindful of the local laws if you’re traveling to new places where certain sunscreen ingredients may be banned completely. 

Safe Sunscreen Options 

Using natural sunscreen options like hats, UV blocking sunglasses, and clothing can be helpful in addition to sunscreen lotions. UPF 50 clothing can block 98% of the sun's rays. Just keep in mind that as clothing gets older and washed frequently, they might not be as effective as they were when you first got them, so don’t count on UPF clothing alone.

Mineral sunscreens that include Zinc Oxide, or Titanium Dioxide are considered physical  barriers, as opposed to chemical types. They may be safer options when choosing a sunscreen without dangerous ingredients.   

When to Apply 

Remember to use sunscreen year round in most environments, even indoors when near windows. 

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends, “A water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any extended outdoor activity. Regardless of the SPF, though, it’s important to apply one ounce (two tablespoons) 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.”

After-Sun Care 

Finally, after-care for sun exposure completes your skincare routine and helps to keep yourself safe and healthy. Aloe, or skincare products with aloe, are both great options to soothe sun kissed skin. 

First, wash off any sunscreen with a cool shower. Avoid hot water that can strip away skin's natural oils. Use a gentle soap and don’t “scrub” your skin. Pat dry, and then MOISTURIZE!

Rehydrate and renourish with a natural moisturizing lotion, like the ones here at Sage Stone Botanicals. Using natural lotions with oils that absorb easily into your skin can help ease the stress your skin has experienced from sun exposure. 

Also, drink plenty of water. Your skin receives moisture from the inside too!

Enjoying your time in the sun is both exhilarating and relaxing, and who doesn’t love that feeling of outdoors in the summertime? By putting to good use a few sun safety tips, using sunscreen, and practicing after-sun care, you can have fun in the sun and be safe at the same time.

A Deep Dive On Our Newest Product: OiLixer

It’s summertime and thoughts go naturally toward all things new and exciting! Here at Sage Stone Botanicals, we are definitely excited to share something new with you - our newest product, OiLixer! If you’ve been thinking about all natural skin care, shiny healthy hair, and beautiful nails, then you’ve come to the right place

Our new OiLixer has just landed on our website and now is your chance to check it out! But what is an OiLixer you might ask? Well, for starters, the word “Elixir” comes from the Arabic word “al-iksir”, which roughly translates as, “the substance that can transform.” Combine that with some special oils and you have an OiLixer.

So how did we create this deliciously hydrating product? Well, it all started with a trip to the founder’s favorite local salon. 

Origin Story 

Alyson, the founder of Sage Stone Botanicals, got the ball rolling on this product after visiting with a friend, Gina, at her local Eugene Salon, Glo Salon. They got talking about how popular oils had become in the skincare space and how Gina had a great oil recipe that just needed a manufacturer. Together, they co-created the OiLixer you see today in our store.

After getting the recipe from Gina, Alyson started preparing it for consumers. She used all of the original scents that Sage Stone Botanicals offers along with the addition of Amber Vanilla, which is a popular scent she often used when making products for her mom in the early days of Sage Stone Botanicals.

Once the labels were on the bottles and all of the scented oils were ready to go, they hosted a soft launch at Glo Salon to showcase the product. It went well and they sold several bottles! Now it’s ready for the masses in our online store. 

Spotlight Ingredients 

The ingredients for this OiLixer are the real heroes in this story. The combination results in a lightweight oil for skin, nails, and hair. Rosehip Seed oil keeps this nourishing formula “dry”, while jojoba and Vitamin E oil deeply penetrate the skin and hair follicles. Jojoba has a close composition to the sebum or normal oil secreted by human skin. This quality enhances absorption into the skin and leaves it feeling more hydrated. Vitamin E oil is well known for being an antioxidant and helps to prevent premature aging. It absorbs fully without leaving the skin with a greasy feel. It’s a match made in heaven! 

Taking a deeper dive into these ingredients brings us to take a closer look at Rosehip Seed Oil specifically. Rosehips are the part of the rose flower that contains the rose plant seeds, and those contain nutritional compounds, including Vitamin A, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6. 

Vitamin A acts as a natural retinol and has been known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation amongst other visible signs of aging. Rosehip seed oil can help with tissue and cell regeneration. Just what you need when your skin is exposed to the hot summer sun!

What This Oil Is For 

So, what do you do with this OiLixir? For starters, this multipurpose oil can be used on hair and the scalp, nails, hands, and cuticles. Whether you’re looking for something to help with dry patches, nail and cuticle care, or even an ultra hydrating facial oil, it can meet the needs of a variety of skincare treatments.

One other use for this OiLixir, in keeping with those transformative properties,is to try using it for a home massage. It’s hard to beat a fragrant natural oil with a soothing massage to make you feel like a brand new YOU!

How To Use It 

For the hair, you can apply it to dry ends or massage it into the scalp. You can massage it into cuticles or dry patches on the body. And when using it for massage, heat it up in your hands before applying it for a smooth application. 

Oils are good for hydrating and repairing damaged skin and hair. Many oils are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. They are known to calm inflammation, minimize fine lines, moisturize skin, and improve problematic acne flare-ups. 

We are so excited about our new OiLixir, and can’t wait to hear back from you about what you like best about it! Transform your beautiful self with the latest product from Sage Stone Botanicals and seize the summer!

Skincare Myths: Fact vs. Fiction

When it comes to caring for your skin, you can’t believe everything you hear. Incorrect info is easy to find, and unreliable fads can leave your skin worse off. 

Whenever you hear or read something unfamiliar to you, it’s always a good idea to fact check it. Ask reliable sources and be sure you are getting the full truth before you believe all the buzz. 

We live in a world of information. Some of it’s correct, and some isn’t. For example, here are a few myths you might have run across at some point in your life. So which is it for these skincare myths? Fact or fiction?

Myth #1: You Can Shrink Your Pores

False.  

You may have heard people recommend certain treatments to shrink your pores. Such as using steam to open your pores and clean them out, followed by an ice roller to close them, thus making them appear smaller. But pores don’t actually “open and close” the way we think they do, and hot steam can make skin conditions like eczema or rosacea act up. 

Some products like face masks can remove dirt and oil that make pores less noticeable, but they can’t change the size of the pores themselves. Things like genetics, skin type, and age can affect the appearance of pores. A regular skincare routine can minimize the possibility of pores retaining debris that can draw your eye to them, but you can’t really make them smaller. 

Myth #2: Skin Gets Used to Products

False.  

Another common skincare myth is that your skin will build up a tolerance to a certain product and then won’t respond favorably to it anymore. Some people believe you have to keep finding new products to “trick” your skin into behaving. But the truth is that skin replenishes itself about every 27 days. So it doesn’t really have time to “get used” to anything.

Checking your skin for allergic reactions or intolerances is a smart thing to do, and switch it if you think you need a different product. But if you find something that works well for you, like our body washes and lotions, by all means, keep using them! 

Myth #3:  Wearing Sunglasses Protects Against Crows Feet

True.  

Protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is one skincare myth you should pay attention to! Even on cloudy days, as much as 80% of the sun’s UV rays can still get through, and your skin can definitely suffer. Tender areas around your eyes can develop tiny wrinkles known as “crows feet” from continual squinting, even when the sun doesn’t seem to be that bright. Wearing sunglasses is one helpful tip that can protect you from the effects of UV rays. 

In fact, protecting your skin with sunscreen year round, indoors and out is a good idea. Some people may not realize that you can still be affected by UV rays even if you’re indoors most of the time. 

And don’t forget about your lips! Using a lip balm that contains SPF protection is a good idea, because lips can get sunburned too!

Myth #4: Toothpaste Can Heal Zits

Might work, but may cause damage. 

Have you ever had someone tell you to put toothpaste on a zit and it will go away more quickly? Well, it may be true that toothpaste has some similar ingredients to some acne products, but toothpaste also has other ingredients you might not want to be putting on your skin. 

This common skincare myth might cause more dryness than you had hoped for, as well as redness and inflammation. Especially if you have sensitive skin. In this case, leave the toothpaste for your teeth, and find a more suitable treatment for troublesome outbreaks on your skin. 

Myth #5: Cucumbers Reduce Puffiness Under Eyes

True-ish.   

While this may be a relatively true skincare myth, you may not be getting the whole picture. Cold cucumber slices are a common skincare treatment that’s often added along with a soothing face mask while enjoying a home spa day. It feels good and does help reduce some degree of puffiness under your eyes.

But the truth is, it’s not the cucumbers themselves. It’s the cool moisture, and pretty much any cool compress will do the same thing. So, shhhhhh, don’t tell the cucumber lovers. It’s okay to let them enjoy their familiar spa day routine. And cool cucumbers covering your eyes isn’t likely to cause any harm, so keep calm and cucumber on! 

Debunking skincare myths can be overwhelming, but just remember to look for reliable sources for skincare information. We go to great lengths to fact check everything we post. 

Whether you have average, oily, sensitive or dry skin, there’s a skincare routine that will work for you. When you invest in the best treatment for your skin, based on true and fact based information, you can be an expert on what’s best for you and your skin.

The Link Between Skincare and Mental Health: Self-Care Tips for a Thriving You

Have you ever noticed how your skin reacts when you’re in a stressful situation? You may have wondered why you seem to get a rash or break out, and of course it’s always when you need to be looking your best for a big event. But did you ever look at it from your skin’s point of view? 

It’s no coincidence that your skin reacts when something big is happening in your life…and it reacts to other events and conditions too. In fact, your skin is a good indicator as to what is happening to you internally, and that includes your mental health. 

Along with environmental and physical conditions, your skin picks up on how you’re feeling. When you’re stressed or feeling depressed, you may also tend to neglect self-care, including your skincare routine. 

The connection between skin and mental health has been well documented through medical science studies. The good news? There are things you can do to soothe and calm your skin when it’s reacting to the stresses that show up in our lives.

How Does Mental Health and Skin Relate to Each Other?

Skin is easily affected by hormones and emotions. Both men and women experience noticeable skin changes when brain and body systems are impacted by factors like illness, stress and environmental conditions. Negative emotions can influence immune responses and affect the way our skin responds to outside stressors. Things like psoriasis can be exacerbated by stress, causing increased inflammation. Mental health affects our quality of life and your skin is going to let you see for yourself where you stand on that subject.

Stress can show up in a number of ways, but ultimately your skin is going to react to whatever is happening no matter the cause. For example, stress can affect your quality of sleep. Less sleep can lead to inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to numerous skin conditions. Stress can sometimes lead to destructive coping behaviors like alcohol use that also shows up in the way your skin looks. Red, inflamed skin is common after drinking alcohol. 

Stress can impact all of your body systems. Your mental health controls everything. When you are stressed or ill, your skin is going to be one of the first red flags telling you that something needs to change. 

Benefits of a Good Skincare Routine

Self care may be one way that you can begin to calm and soothe the connection between mental health and your skin. Even if your skin conditions are caused by illness, reducing stress can still be a significant tool.

A regular skincare routine can be one form of self care that can promote improved mental health. A study in 2019 showed that a regular skincare routine lowered the level of cortisol by 83%. In another study in 2018, it showed that looking forward to a pleasant activity can activate an area in the prefrontal cortex of the brain associated with a sense of well being. 

The anticipation of your skincare routine can give you a feeling of being loved and cared for, and the actual motions of applying lotions after a warm bath or shower can leave you feeling less stressed and relaxed. If the lotion you choose is scented, you’re also reaping the benefits that aromatherapy can bring. 

Benefits of a skincare routine can help with mental health by:

• Helping you to feel relaxed. Self care just feels good!

• Allowing you to focus on you instead of outside circumstances - it’s called “me time” for a reason. 

• Uplifting your mood through scented oils and lotions - you get all the benefits of aromatherapy. 

• Improving the quality of your skin and helping you look your best. 

• Giving you a sense of control in an otherwise chaotic world. 

A good skincare routine can go hand in hand with good stress coping skills to improve mental health and your skin will thank you for it. 

Create a Positive Self Care Space

Boosting your skincare routine with mantras, affirmations and visualizations can give you even better outcomes  when creating your self care sanctuary. 

If you’re not familiar with mantras or affirmations, they are basically a repeated word or phrase that you say to yourself to encourage and remind yourself to align with your personal beliefs and goals. 

For example, repeating the sound “OM” is a common mantra that is helpful with promoting a calming effect through the parasympathetic nervous system. Some believe that chanting this sound removes negativity from within your body, supporting a positive effect that is apparent on the outside. 

Affirmations are positive phrases that you repeat to yourself that can affect your subconscious thinking to reset your belief system. Your brain responds to what you tell it, so using positive statements can have an impact. Some examples of affirmations could be things like:

• I am cleared of negativity. I am loved and protected.

• I love my skin. I love myself.

• I am calm. I am relaxed. I am peaceful.

• My skin is clear and beautiful.

Whatever statements feel most true and comforting to you can be used daily as you are performing your skincare routine. There are also calming and positive affirmation apps and videos you could use to help you feel good and promote that sense of peace and well being.

Visualizing clear radiant skin and picturing yourself in pleasant surroundings can also add to creating a positive self care space. 

Music is another great tool to enhance your skin routine. Music speaks to the soul and can have soothing effects on your overall nervous system. Choose quiet meditative music without lyrics that promotes a relaxing atmosphere or put on your favorite bop and sing along. Whichever tune makes you feel the best is the right choice.  

The documented research on the relationship between skincare and mental health is well known and widely accepted within the medical community. While some illnesses or immune responses may be more difficult to manage, any reduction in stress by using mental health coping skills and a relaxing skincare routine can be helpful.

A Guide to Skincare for Sensitive Skin Types: Do’s and Don’ts

When it comes to our skin, it’s not a “one size fits all” approach. Some skin types are oily, some dry, and some are a combination of both. And any one of those skin types can come served up with a side of sensitivity. 

Let’s take a closer look at sensitive skin and consider a few things to know to give it the best care possible.

Why Do You Have Sensitive Skin?

First of all, let’s talk about why you may have sensitive skin. You may have had sensitive skin since you were born, or it may have appeared as you grew up. The reasons can vary from health conditions to environmental factors.

When it comes to your health, your skin is often one of the first things you might notice when your system is out of balance. Sensitive skin in itself is not a disease, but it can be a symptom of other conditions. Take stress, for instance. It’s not uncommon to develop a rash or dry patches when you’re experiencing stressful times.

Other health related conditions that might cause your skin to be dry and sensitive could be things like rosacea, eczema, and allergies. Your doctor can identify other conditions that are unique to you. 

Environmental factors can also play a role in dry skin. If the weather is cold or the sun is hot, you might see your skin getting dry or chapped. Exposure to certain chemicals, harsh soaps, over-washing, and long hot showers are just a few of the other triggers that can cause your skin to react with irritation. When your skin is sensitive to outside influences, it won’t be surprising when it shows you how it feels.

If you have sensitive skin, it will most commonly appear on your face, hands, feet, arms and lower legs. But there are things you can do to help soothe your skin, and tone down inflamed redness or itching.

Choosing Good Ingredients in Skincare Products

When you have sensitive skin it’s really going to make a difference in selecting products that will help, not hurt, your delicate skin. 

• Cleansers

Avoid using harsh soaps and cleansers on your hands, face, and in the shower. Gentle, fragrance free products are going to be your best bet for sensitive skin. Even with your laundry soaps, choose natural ingredients without perfumes and strong cleaning agents. 

Our hand and body washes are great on all skin types. They’re made with just three main ingredients, organic sunflower, organic coconut oil, and organic jojoba oil - all of which have natural antibacterial properties and work together to moisturize your skin.

On your face, avoid astringents and over exfoliating. Wash gently by wiping your skin, rather than scrubbing. 

• Lotions

Sensitive skin is likely going to react to anything harsh or overly perfumed, so just as with cleansers, make sure the lotions you choose are going to soothe and moisturize your skin with gentle natural ingredients. Read the labels and avoid things like parabens and sulfates in any of your cleansers, creams or lotions. 

Look for natural ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and moisturizers like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. 

Our lotions and cremes are made with carefully selected organic oils that can moisturize your skin safely, without harsh ingredients that might be irritating to sensitive skin types. Either delicately scented with essential oils or unscented, these lotions can gently moisturize sensitive skin. Alyson, the founder of Sage Stone Botanicals, has struggled with dry and sensitive skin so she’s put these product formulas to the test herself. Spoiler alert: They passed the test and are great for dry, sensitive skin. 

• Sunscreen

Protecting your skin from the sun is another important step in caring for your skin, but it may be even more important for people with sensitive skin. Wearing a hat or clothing that blocks UV rays is one way to do that, but using a natural sunscreen lotion on your skin is still necessary, especially when the sun is hot!

Chemical sunscreens using ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate or oxybenzone, can be too harsh for sensitive skin and have been suspected of being harmful in environmental ways as well. Using a more natural product with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can be a better option for sensitive skin types. 

Keeping things simple and natural are the best keys to choosing products for sensitive skin.

Fragrances

Not all fragrances are made the same. Some products have just enough scent to feel as if you’ve been kissed by a gentle wind blowing through a lavender field or floating in a meadow of lemon grass. 

…But other times, you may run across a strong perfume that leaves you feeling like you’ve been drowned in a vat of synthetically soaked laundry towels. That’s not the best choice for sensitive skin! 

Whatever fragrance you’re using, make sure it's giving you, and the people around you, an uplifting scent of pleasure. You don’t want to suffocate the senses of everyone around you because of the intense aroma coming from your skincare products. Choosing naturally scented products can enhance the enjoyment for everyone. 

General Tips

When it comes to managing sensitive skin, there are the key things to remember.

DO:

• Use gentle cleansers

• Use natural moisturizers

• Read labels and use natural ingredients

• Pat skin, rather than rub

• Use essential oils for fragrance or go with unscented products

• Test new products on a small area of skin before using all over your face or body.

• Protect your skin with hats and sunscreen

DON’T:

• Take long hot showers

• Use harsh face and body soaps or laundry detergents

• Over exfoliate

• Use alcohol based products

• Use chemical sunscreens with ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate or oxybenzone

(try zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead)

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Dealing with sensitive skin might take a little extra attention but by following a few basic guidelines you can minimize the triggers that cause red, inflamed, and itchy skin.

Navigating Skincare in Your 20s, 30s, 40s, and Beyond: Tips for Aging Gracefully

Baby soft skin is what we’re born with. But as we age, our skin changes along with the rest of our body. Each age has its own concerns, but also its own solutions.

One thing the decades have in common in skincare are the three basic steps: cleanse, moisturize, and protect. Starting with pre-teens, this simple treatment plan will be the basis of skincare throughout the years. 

So what do you need as you get older? Let’s take a look at what happens in your 20’s, 30’s and beyond. 

20’s

Prior to your 20’s, your 3-step skincare plan was enough. But when you start to mature, your skin is going to experience some wear and tear. You might want to consider some extra help to maintain your youthful glow. 

Your 20’s are a good time to add hyaluronic acid and retinoids into your daily plan. Even at this young age, you are already having decreased collagen levels. These may sound like intimidating substances to put on your face but they have plenty of benefits that make them worth it! Hyaluronic acid is even something your body naturally produces. 

Hyaluronic acid will help skin stay hydrated, with a nice plump appearance. Retinoids are Vitamin A-based products and while they’re sometimes associated with older people who are concerned about aging, starting them now will help with fine lines, prevent wrinkles, and smooth your skin tone overall. 

By adding in some general preventive measures, you’ll be off to a great start for a lifetime of great looking skin.

30’s

In your 30’s, life experience is starting to show. Fine lines around the corners of your eyes and forehead may need extra attention. Changes in pigment may appear, due to sun exposure, medications, vitamin deficiencies or genetics. This could be a good time to add another layer of treatment to your skincare routine. It’s time to introduce exfoliation, lifestyle changes, and antioxidants. 

Exfoliating can be helpful for cell turnover and antioxidants may help prevent and repair cell damage by counteracting free radicals and oxidative stress caused by the body’s metabolic activity. Things like pollution, smoking or drinking alcohol can also be contributing factors to lackluster skin. By using antioxidants like Vitamin C, you may be able to ward off some of the damage.

Having a healthy diet with foods that support antioxidant activity and finding effective topical treatments can also be beneficial. How you treat your body on the inside will be reflected on the outside. 

40’s

In your 40’s, you may want to continue further down the path of self-care and be more vigilant about some of your lifestyle choices. What you do and what you consume can contribute to a faster aging process. 

Crepey skin, sagging, and dullness can begin to creep in at this age. But you’re not completely defenseless against the effects of time. 

In addition to continuing your past skincare routine, make sure you are getting enough sleep and avoid too much sugar. 

Why sugar? Something called glycation has to do with the way sugar reacts with proteins. The short version is that sugar can cause skin to break down collagen and be less elastic. There’s other reasons to limit your sugar intake, but as far as your skin goes, since you already have less collagen production, excessive sugar will only make things worse. 

50’s

Menopause can occur prior to your 50’s, but it’s something to address at whatever age it happens. Hormonal changes have an effect, just like they did when you were a teenager with oily skin, but now the hormones are doing something different. 

As always, maintain your previous skincare routine but emphasize the antioxidants and hyaluronic acid even more. One way to do that could be in a face mist. Facial hydrating mists can be used prior to using moisturizer or sunscreen or throughout the day to add moisture.

With many varieties to choose from, find the one that works best for you. Products with hyaluronic acid or aloe vera can be good choices, and many have extra ingredients like lavender oils, chamomile, or green tea. 

A face mist for dryness and redness can help refresh and rehydrate. Plus it feels good! If you’re menopause symptoms include hot flashes, having a face mist on hand is especially nice. 

60’s and Beyond

If you’ve been caring for your skin your whole life, you should be doing pretty well!

Your skin can still be glowing, smooth, and healthy with the care you’ve taken up to this point. 

But you’re not done yet! The next step, in addition to everything else you’re doing for your skin, is adding lipids. This has to do with replenishing healthy fats. Lipids are natural fats for the skin. They help to prevent sun damage and retain moisture. Basically the idea is that lipids help protect the skin barrier and prevent absorption of environmental impurities. It keeps the moisture in and keeps the bad stuff out. 

When shopping, look for a topical cream with ceramides or ask your Dermatologist what they would recommend. 

Lastly, remember that more product is not necessarily better. Read directions on products and follow their recommendations. You can’t ignore your skin until you notice the damage and then over apply products and expect miracles. 

Skin care is a slow and steady, daily process that begins in your youth and continues to evolve as you age. If you have unique skin conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor about them, or for any of your skincare concerns for that matter. Read labels, educate yourself, and make sure what you’re using is appropriate for you. For example, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, some products might not be recommended. 

Taking care of your skin throughout your life can help you feel pampered and beautiful. No matter what your age, you can always be the best version of YOU.