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Here's How to Treat Dry Skin as You Get Older
Here’s how to treat dry skin, an inevitable skin change that comes with aging. In this post, learn about ingredients and tips that will lead to softer, smoother and more touchable skin. At Apothekari, our moisturizers are one of the best ways to manage dryness from head to toe. Shop Moisturizers Why Causes Dry Skin As You Get Older? Your skin ages in two main ways: 1. Extrinsic Aging Extrinsic aging is related to the impact of the environment on your skin. This includes exposure to the sun, pollution and smoke, plus diet and lifestyle factors. Stress, sleep, exercise all contribute to extrinsic aging. Together, they can lead to skin thickening, freckles, age spots and some precancerous changes such as actinic keratosis and skin cancers themselves. The sun’s UV rays damages collagen, elastin and other elements that lead to skin that sags, stretches, and loses its ability to snap back after stretching. Mature skin may also become drier, bruise and tear more easily, and take longer to heal. 2. Intrinsic Aging Intrinsic aging is something that we can’t fight against and which occurs as part of the natural aging process: Thinning of the dermal and epidermal skin layers, resulting in a smaller supply of nutrients to the cells A decline in the production of new skin cells and skin supportive fibers (collagen, elastin, etc) A decreased ability to retain moisture A decline in levels of the hormone, estrogen. Estrogen not only stimulates oil glands, which helps keep skin hydrated, it also helps to maintain the skin’s structure. Dryness affects the skin on all of your body. This includes your face, arms and legs, plus parts of your body, you may not have considered, like your vulva and vagina. More Than Lip Service Vulvar and Vaginal Moisturizer offers fast, hormone-relief for when you experience dryness down there. What is the Best Natural Ingredient for Dry Skin? Whether skin is mature or younger, a good moisturizer is key to help treat dry skin. Moisturizers work by either providing hydration, or by helping to prevent its loss, and they contain 3 main classes of ingredients: Humectants: Help to attract moisture to the skin. Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea and aloe vera are humectants. Emollients: Smooth and soften skin by helping to repair cracks in the skin barrier. They prevent moisture loss. Butters, oils, esters, lipids, and fatty acids are all considered emollients. Occlusives: Work by forming a protective coating on your skin’s surface, forming a protective barrier that locks moisture in and keeps harmful particles out. They tend to be oily or waxy. Petrolatum, lanolin, beeswax, jojoba oil, and olive oil are examples. Occlusives like oils, can also be emollients. Each class of ingredient provides benefits of its own, and they’re often combined together for the best results. For best results apply them to slightly damp skin to help lock in the moisture. What is the Best Thing for Dry Skin | Top Tips Using moisturizer is an essential step in dry skin management, but there are many lifestyle changes that you can implement to help as well: Introduce Humidity. The drier the air, the drier the skin. It’s a lesson, I re-learn every time I travel to the desert-like climate in Arizona. Consider using a humidifier in the room where you spend the most time, which, for many of us, is the bedroom. Change Up Your Diet. Increasing your intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to help improve the skin’s oil production, improve hydration and minimize the signs of aging. Look for them in nuts (walnuts are a rich source), olive oil, avocados and salmon. Watch Your Alcohol Consumption. Ah yes, a glass of red wine on a Friday evening is very appealing. We’re not telling you to give it up completely, but alcohol, along with caffeine, act as diuretics that can lead to dehydration and drier skin. Up the water intake to help counteract the effect if you can. Exfoliate. No matter how much you moisturize, dry skin will stay dry without some light exfoliation. For the face, check out our AHA-Mazing Clean Cleansing Gel and our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, which hydrates and exfoliates as well. Cleanse Gently. Harsh cleansers can strip away skin’s protective natural oils. Choose one that is gentle—the one we’ve linked to above is gentle, yet also effective. Add In An Oil. If you’re already using a moisturizer and skin is still dry, consider adding in an oil. These help to lock in the moisture delivered by a moisturizing cream or lotion, relieving dryness even further. Our Antioxidant Face Oil is a boon to drier skin on the face while our Lemon Rose Body Oil offers luxurious hydration post shower or bath. Water—but, don’t make it hot! Hot water strips away skin’s protective oils. Switch to lukewarm and stay away from hot water when you shower, bathe or wash.
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If You Can Only Set One Health Goal for 2020, This Is It!
If you can only set one health goal for 2020, let this be the year to look after your skin. Putting your skin at the top of your priority list benefits your overall wellness. Find out how our Ageless Skin Set can help to achieve this health goal while also simplifying your skin care routine – more in this post. Shop Apothekari Ageless Skin Set Mindfulness In Your Health Goal Our skin is our largest and one of our most vital organs and it reflects our overall health. Yet, it is among the most neglected and misunderstood parts of our bodies. Just about anything we do, from what we eat to how much we stress or sleep, including where we live, influences our skin. Stress causes the release of hormones, which helps us cope, but may also be damaging. Temporarily elevated levels are fine, but over the long term, high levels of hormones like cortisol can lower our immune function, lead to weight gain and to skin that appears dull and dry and at risk for the development of acne, fine lines and rashes. It’s nearly impossible to avoid stress so it’s important to manage it. At Apothekari, we’ve found that meditation, exercise, adequate sleep and the company of good people are essential to coping with stress. More here. They don’t call it ‘beauty sleep’ for nothing! Sleep deprivation shows on your skin resulting in dark shadows & under-eye puffiness; sallow, lacklustre skin due to poor circulation and inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema due to elevated levels of cortisol (see above). Eat Well. We are what we eat and now that the season of indulgence is coming to an end, it’s time to restock your pantry and fridge with foods that will help you to stick with your health goal. Load up on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats. A diet filled with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential fatty acids are essential to good health and provide the building blocks for beautiful skin. And, drink enough water. Hydration is crucial for all aspects of health, including skin health, because it allows your body to effectively carry out the functions that keep fluids moving. Exercise. Benefiting not just our heart and our waistline, new research suggests that exercise also results in microscopic changes to skin, making it look younger – by up to 20 to 30 years! Keep It Simple An effective skincare regimen doesn’t have to be complicated, and doesn’t require a myriad of products. Bonus: you’re more likely to stick with your health goal if it’s easy. Take inventory of the products you’re using (this is also a good time to look at your makeup) and discard outdated products or ones that your skin doesn’t love. This includes products containing harsh ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate or sensitizing ones like fragrances. You know your skin best so only you can be the judge of the ingredients that don’t agree with you. Don’t keep duplicates around, unless you like to alternate between brands and products. This can make sense in some instances – for example, richer creams for drier winters and lighter ones or serums for warmer and more humid conditions. Choose the ones that work best for you and get rid of the rest. Don’t be duped into 7,9 or 11 step skincare routines. In most cases, they are absolutely unnecessary, eating up time, creating confusion and helping to empty out your wallet. Be ruthless when evaluating products and get rid of them if you aren’t using them or they are wasting your precious time. Most of us benefit with just a few steps: Every Morning: Layer an antioxidant serum like our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum to protect against free radical damage. Follow with sunscreen, every day year round to protect against the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. Every Night: Cleanse your face night to remove make-up and dirt and prep skin for other treatments. Apply a retinoid serum, like our gentle and effective A is for Anti-Aging Serum to boost collagen production and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines As Needed: Incorporate treatments like moisturizers, oils, etc to manage dryness, acne and other skin conditions as needed. Our Ageless Skin Set includes a cleanser, our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, A is for Anti-Aging Serum and Daily Infusion Moisturizer. It provides the basics to get you started on a simple and effective regimen. Just add sunscreen. Establish and Stick to A Routine Consistency is key to success and like any good habit, it’s worth investing the time to develop one. There’s no such thing as an instant fix and when it comes to the the health goal of your skin, give it time. Evaluate results after about six weeks, which is the minimum amount of time needed to notice a difference. And, don’t forget the skin on your body, which also deserves some attention and care. Let 2020 – the start of a new decade – be the year that you give your skin the care and attention it deserves. Your body will say thank you!
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A Skincare Routine For Ageless Skin
A solid skincare routine is the foundation for youthful, ageless skin. Learn how to put together a regimen that covers the essential products for morning and nighttime skincare in this post. Shop Apothekari Ageless Skin Set Aging Doesn’t Mean Aging Skin We’ve discussed the impact that age has on our skin in a previous post. This includes: Less natural oil production leading to rougher, drier skin Less elastin and collagen production leading to skin that is less firm Thinning skin that appears more transparent Loss of volume due to thinning bones. We can’t control the impact of time, but our lifestyle choices also play a role in our skin’s appearance. For great skin it’s important to eat well, get enough sleep, exercise and incorporate effective skincare products as found in our Ageless Skin Set. A Morning and Nighttime Skincare Routine A 3-step skincare routine is one that most of us should follow to keep our skin looking its very best: Cleanse. To rid skin of make-up, pollution, dirt and oil, which can lead to blemishes, redness and irritation. One-step or two-step; it’s up to you but this important step shouldn’t be missed, especially at night. Cleansing also ensures that serums and other active products that you put on your skin can penetrate to deliver their effects. Protect. If you’re not wearing sunscreen every day, you’re not giving your skin a fighting chance! The sun’s ultraviolet rays are thought to contribute to more than 80% of skin aging so find a sunscreen that you love and apply it every morning, every day of the year! Add in an antioxidant formulation – one with Vitamin C (as in our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum), as recommended by most skincare experts. Antioxidants help defend against the free radicals that cause skin damage, and which we’re exposed to daily from pollution and UV rays. Perfect. Depending on your age, your skin type and where you live (climate, humidity, etc), this step addresses your skin’s specific needs. Whether it’s fine lines and wrinkles, crows feet, dark circles, hyperpigmentation, dry skin or acne, this last step addresses that. A serious anti-aging skincare routine must include a retinoid. Derived from Vitamin A, retinoids deliver a range of proven skin benefits including: Minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Brighten skin tone by reversing sun damage and dark spots Thicken skin Retinoids also have anti-acne properties, making them a useful addition in the management of blemishes, which many women experience as they get older. Our A is for Anti-Aging contains retinaldehyde – an effective yet gentle retinoid, making it suitable for most skin types – along with other skin beneficial ingredients for firmer, brighter and more youthful looking skin. Depending on your concerns, incorporate other products including moisturizers, eye treatments, skin lighteners, masks or exfoliants into your skincare routine as needed. Our Ageless Skin Set: Part of Your Skincare Routine We’ve combine 4 essential products to cover a morning and nighttime skincare routine into our Ageless Skin Set, which currently features special pricing: A is for Anti-Aging – A gentle and effective retinoid serum that helps to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation and reverse sun damage. Use daily at night. Bespoke Vitamin C Serum – Vitamin C (10 or 15%) plus antioxidants help to fight against free radicals, which can accelerate the aging process. Each bottle is made to order guaranteeing freshness. Apply daily every morning. Daily Infusion Moisturizer – Moisturize, hydrate and plump skin. Use daily morning and/or night as needed. AHA-Mazing Clean Cleansing Gel (all skin types) – Cleanse skin to remove dirt and makeup and ensure absorption of active treatments. Choose between Cloud Nine, our gentle, foaming cleansing cream or AHA-Mazing, our exfoliating cleansing gel. Shop Apothekari Ageless Skin Set Are you ready to wake up to healthy, ageless skin with this essential AM/PM skincare set?
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How To Get More Radiant Skin
Glowy, radiant skin is a sign of healthy skin – a look that that we all aspire to. Consistently using the right combination of products is key to radiant skin. Learn more in this post. SHOP RADIANT SKIN SET What Robs You of Radiant Skin? Lack of sleep, stress, aging and even what you eat can rob your complexion of its radiance. Skin that looks dull and tired can become luminous and glowing by using the right products along with some expert tips. Here’s how to achieve radiant skin. 4 Tips for Radiant Skin Cleanse. Start with a clean ‘canvas’ by removing dirt including oil, pollution and make-up that can leave skin looking dull. Choose between two foaming cleansers to suit most skin types: AHA-Mazing Clean Cleansing Gel – Exfoliate, cleanse and hydrate with this foaming cleansing that soothes skin and senses. Triple combination of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and a refreshing mint scent. Cloud Nine Foaming Cleansing Crème – Clean, moisturize and protect skin with this gentle, foaming cleanser. Rich with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients and ideal for aging and sensitive skin. Exfoliate. Nothing strips away your glow more than having a layer of dry, dead skin cells sitting on your skin’s surface. Exfoliation helps to remove these cells and brightens skin almost immediately. You can exfoliate physically with a scrub or chemically with an acid. When it comes to facial exfoliation, we lean towards chemical exfoliation, which only penetrates through the skin’s uppermost layer. Scrubs and polishes are more prone to aggressive use, which can lead to skin irritation. In addition to our AHA-Mazing Clean Cleansing Gel, which exfoliates and cleanses, our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, provides light exfoliation. Brighten. As we age, skin can become unevenly toned due to age spots, melasma, etc. The following ingredients can brighten skin: Niacinamide. Lightens skin discolouration and fades age spots by decreasing the number of melanin transferred to pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) to skin cells by more than half. Find niacinamide in A is for Anti-Aging, where it is combined with Phenylethyl Resorcinol, another skin brightening agent and retinaldehyde, for the ultimate in age prevention properties. Vitamin C. Found in our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, it brightens skin by disrupting the production of melanin, a skin pigment that causes discolouration and age spots. Because the two ingredients above do so much to improve skin’s glow, we’ve combined A is for Anti-Aging and our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum into the Radiant Skin Set. When used together regularly, these serums will help to illuminate your complexion. Expect to see results within a few weeks and optimal results in about three months. Other ingredients that can help to brighten skin include lactic acid, arbutin, kojic acid and licorice. Hydrate. Dry and dehydrated skin looks dull and may even appear more wrinkled. Although you may not need a dedicated moisturizer, it’s important to incorporate products that can help to replenish and lock in moisture. In a previous post we discussed how to choose a moisturizer and our Daily Infusion Moisturizer provides a perfect balance of the 3 types of ingredients needed to keep skin hydrated. Fake It Till You Make It! While you’re waiting for results from topical treatment to kick in, you can rely on make-up, which helps to deliver an instant glow. Look for products that contain minerals like mica, which reflect light to deliver radiant skin allover.
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The Essentials For Smooth Skin On Your Body
If summer living has left you with arms and legs that are dry, rough and/or cracked, learn about the essentials necessary for touchable and smooth skin! *Our Bamboo Lemongrass Body Polish has been discontinued, but consider our Shea Body Butter or Lemon Rose Moisturizing Oil to help keep skin soft and smooth. Shop Lemon Rose Moisturizing Body Oil We’re summer’s biggest fans at Apothekari, but extended sun exposure can do a number on your skin. Unprotected exposure to UVA rays can destroy collagen and elastin, which helps give skin a smooth and resilient texture. Plus, it can make it look and feel drier and rougher. While sun protection is important, it’s also necessary to use products that can help to undo the damage that summer can cause. Learn what they are in this post. What Causes Rough Skin? Your skin’s texture and appearance are affected primarily by its uppermost layer, the stratum corneum, which is made up of dead skin cells along with a mixture of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids. These substances help to keep moisture in and irritants out. A build-up of these dead skin cells along with a lack of moisture and hydration are the main reasons that skin appears rough and dry. Low humidity or skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or keratotis pilaris, may worsen your skin’s appearance. Plus, the hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and menopause may also detract from smooth skin. If you’re after smooth skin, it’s essential to do these 2 things: Exfoliate Moisturize The two products found in our Smooth Skin Body Set can help. Exfoliate for Smooth Skin Gentle cleansing and mild exfoliation help to deliver radiant and smooth skin by removing the dead skin cells on the surface that leave skin looking and feeling rough, dull and dry. Exfoliate either chemically (as with ingredients known as alpha hydroxy acids – AHAs – acids which help to dissolve the ‘glue’ that holds skin cells together) or mechanically by using scrubs and polishes. Many of us pay attention to our facial skin, but we often overlook our hands and feet – parts of our body that suffer the most wear and tear, especially during the warmer months. Our Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Polish is formulated with walnut shell powder, powdered bamboo and a gentle cleanser to whisk away dead, dry skin cells leaving smooth skin behind. It’s invigorating and refreshing essential oil scent turns a shower or bath into a spa-like event. Moisturizers Lead to Smoother Skin Once you’ve removed the dead skin leading to roughness, it’s important to moisturize. A good moisturizer helps to prevent flaking and dry patches by replenishing and locking in moisture. Whether you opt for a lotion, a cream or a butter, moisturizers help to deliver soft and smooth skin by plumping up skin cells. For best results, apply moisturizers to damp skin as quickly as you can after stepping out of the shower, to trap water and seal it in. Our Shea Body Butter contains healing herbs, fresh oils, natural vegetarian waxes in an organic shea butter base to heal dry, cracked and callused skin. We’ve combined both the Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Polish and the Shea Body Butter into our Smooth Skin Set so that your skin can benefit from both exfoliation and moisturization on a regular basis. Beauty From Within: Smooth Skin With These 3 Tips Here are 3 additional things you can do every day to ensure smooth skin: Drink Water. (Caution with the caffeinated, sugary beverages or alcoholic drinks) to help hydrate and assist your body’s metabolic processes. Fruits and vegetables count as well – not only are many high in water content (melons, cucumbers, etc), but they are also filled with micronutrients that help to maintain healthy skin. Get Enough Beauty Sleep. A lack of quality sleep increases your body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone that can increase the inflammatory response in skin and showing up as more acne or skin sensitivity along with psoriasis and eczema. Exercise. Increases blood flow to the blood vessels, helping to provide more micronutrients to skin and enhancing its appearance.
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3 Tips To Help Transition Summer Skin Care to Fall
No, we’re not ready to say goodbye to summer, but September’s just around the corner, so this may be a good time to focus on how to transition your summer skin care routine, to one more suitable for fall. Shop All Apothekari Autumn brings cooler weather and with it, a drop in humidity. Lower humidity makes for drier air, leading to even drier skin. Add in dry heat from radiators and your skin may start to react with dry, itchy skin and certain skin conditions such as eczema. To avoid an itch fest and to help keep skin looking and feeling soft and supple, we’re sharing 3 tips to help you manage the transition of summer skin care to fall. Tip 1: Moisturize More Often A lightweight moisturizer, gel or none at all may have served your skin well during the warmer months. However, as temperatures drop, the air becomes drier and you may need to amp up the hydration: Try a thicker moisturizer, which may be more appropriate for skin during cooler weather. If you find it too heavy for daytime use, apply at night before going to bed. Don’t forget to hydrate body skin, which can also suffer from dryness and itchiness. Our Shea Body Butter is made with organic shea butter and infused with healing herbs, fresh oils and natural vegetarian waxes to heal dry, cracked and callused skin without any greasiness. Scented with a beautiful essential oil blend, apply it to slightly damp skin, which helps to lock in moisture. Consider adding an oil to your routine. Our Antioxidant Face Oil features skin nourishing vegetable oils including Olkerii Marula Oil to deliver fatty acids, sterols and antioxidants that help to calm, heal and protect skin leaving it feeling soft and smooth and looking radiant. We love incorporating this into our nighttime routine during fall and winter. Opt for a gentler cleanser. Tip 2: Summer Skin Care Essentials Year Round *Shade SPF 30 and Anti-Aging Skin Set have been discontinued. Our Radiant Skin Set includes both serums that were included in our Anti-Aging Set (just add sunscreen). For help choosing a sunscreen, check out our blog post: Sunscreen Ingredients | What to Look For. SHOP RADIANT SKIN SET Regardless of the season, it’s important to follow the basics of good skin care by protecting, preventing damage and perfecting skin year-round. Our Anti-Aging Set contains the 3 products that all skin types need to maintain healthy & beautiful skin: A Retinoid Serum – A is for Anti-Aging. Formulated with retinaldehyde, a gentle and effective retinoid plus additional actives/ingredients to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, brighten skin and protect against sun damage. An Antioxidant Treatment – Bespoke Vitamin C Serum. Vitamin C plus antioxidants in a made to order serum that protects skin from the free radicals that can accelerate skin aging. Moisturizes and leads to brighter skin. A Sunscreen – Shade SPF 30. A naturally safe, mineral based, zinc oxide sunscreen that delivers broad spectrum and non-whitening protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays. Tip 3: Lifestyle Tips While the right skin care products are important as you move from a summer skin care routine to one more appropriate for fall, lifestyle factors can help as well: Opt for warm, not hot baths and showers. Hot water can lead to drier skin. Invest in a humidifier if the air is exceptionally dry. Run it while you sleep, which will not only help to stave off dry skin, but also benefit dry sinuses, a problem some of experience during the cooler months. Don’t forget your feet and hands. Cracked hands and feet are not only unsightly, but can be painful as well. We like to slather on a moisturizer at bedtime before donning on a pair of socks or gloves to up the moisture factor. What is your best tip for transitioning from summer skin care to fall?
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This Serum Can Fight Free Radicals
Learn how to fight free radicals, molecules which can damage skin, by adding this serum to your daily skincare routine. Shop Bespoke Vitamin C 15% What Are Free Radicals? ‘Free radicals’ AKA Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) impact our health, including that of our skin. They are created in our bodies as a result of exposure to certain different physical or chemical conditions or illness, including pollution, UV rays, some pesticides and smoke along with the consumption of excess alcohol and some fried foods. Free radicals are thought to contribute to diseases such as heart disease, autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes and degenerative diseases (Huntington’s or Parkinson’s disease) as well as cancer. Age-related changes in our appearance, including a loss of skin elasticity, wrinkles, graying hair, hair loss, and changes in hair texture are also thought to be related to free radicals. That’s why it’s important to fight free radicals. How to Fight Free Radicals in Skin Once free radical damage starts, it’s thought that a ‘cascade’ of damage occurs, producing more free radicals and speeding up the process of cell damage. This buildup of free radicals offers one explanation for why even healthy bodies age and deteriorate over time. Antioxidants are highly stable molecules, which donate an electron to free radicals, reducing their path of destruction and thereby lessening the damage they cause. Because they are so stable, antioxidants can do this without becoming free radicals themselves. Our bodies make several important antioxidants – glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase – and we can help to fight free radicals even further by consuming antioxidant rich foods or by applying them topically. One single antioxidant isn’t enough; we benefit from a combination of including the following: Vitamin C Vitamin E Ferulic acid Green Tea Resveratrol Coenzyme Q10. Apothekari Bespoke Vitamin C Serum is made with a combination of antioxidants and designed to fight free radicals, promote collagen synthesis, brighten skin tone and improve the appearance of aging skin. It is available in a 10% (sensitive skin) or 15% concentration (non-sensitive skin) and each bottle is made fresh to order, guaranteeing its potency. Apply to skin daily every morning to fight free radicals leaving skin looking more youthful and radiant. Top Tip: Eat Your Antioxidants While the topical application of antioxidants is beneficial to skin, we can’t discount the importance of nutrition. Fruits, vegetables and spices including onion, garlic, turmeric, cinnamon and ginger are a major source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce the risk of developing certain diseases. Enjoy the variety; it is the spice of life after all!
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Boost Collagen With This Face Serum
Boost collagen with Apothekari A is for Anti-Aging, a face serum that can help keep skin looking healthy and youthful. Shop A Is for Anti-Aging Serum (Our Retinoid Formulation) What is Collagen? Collagen is the protein most abundant in mammals and it’s behind pretty much everything holding you up right now – your bones, skin and muscle. Collagen is made up of amino acids, the building blocks of protein, which give strength and structure to tissues. This allows us to remain bendy, bouncy and generally supple. It’s one of the main components of skin but we sadly start to lose collagen as early as our twenties. Over time, this can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and loose skin. Fortunately, we can help to boost collagen levels with a combination of factors including lifestyle changes, sound nutrition plus topical treatments including this face serum, A is for Anti-Aging. Sunscreen and antioxidants are a great first defense against damage to collagen. Exposure to UV rays turns up the production of MMPs (matrix metalloproteinases), a group of enzymes responsible for the degradation of most of the body’s proteins like collagen. A well formulated sunscreen, like Shade SPF 30, along with an antioxidant treatment can help to neutralize free radicals and quash inflammation. The good news about some antioxidants, like Vitamin C and green tea, found in our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, is that in addition to protecting against free radicals, they also protect against collagen loss and help to boost its production. Learn more about how to beat sun damage here. This Face Serum Can Help To Boost Collagen While collagen creams are available, the collagen molecule itself is too large to penetrate skin to where it’s needed, deep in the dermis layer. The better way to boost collagen is to apply treatments that contain ingredients which have been shown to stimulate the production of collagen. In addition to antioxidants, peptides plus retinoids have been shown to boost collagen production. Retinoids like prescription retinoic acid or over the counter retinaldehyde, found in our A is for Anti-Aging Serum, have been around for a while and have a lot of evidence to support their ability to boost collagen levels. They work by ‘turning on’ genes and cells that are involved in collagen production and also help to organize new and existing collagen. Over time, they can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The biggest downside of retinoids is their ability to cause skin irritation. That’s why we are such big fans of the retinaldehyde found in A is for Anti-Aging, which is not only effective, but also the least irritating of all retinoids. Retinaldehyde is supported by other ingredients that can help to protect and improve skin’s appearance. Lifestyle Factors Beyond protecting collagen in your body with topical treatments, there are other things you can do as well. Smoking, stress, excessive alcohol consumption and a diet high in sugar and processed food can all accelerate the loss of collagen. Consume foods high in lean protein, essential fatty acids, fruits and vegetables, which contain amino acids, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients and help create a foundation for firm skin. Don’t skimp on protein, which is needed to produce collagen. If you’re curious about whether collagen supplements can help to boost collagen levels, know that while the research looks promising, it isn’t yet conclusive. For best results, look for brands that contain hydrolyzed peptides as these are the best way for the collagen stimulating molecules to reach your bloodstream. Other nutrients such as lysine, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) and keratin stimulate collagen and vitamin C is essential for its production as well.
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Canada Day Contest - Win! Apothekari Skincare Set
CANADA DAY CONTEST Win! Apothekari Skincare Set As a proud Canadian company (Vancouver based), we are getting into the spirit of Canada Day by celebrating with a contest! Enter for a chance to win an Apothekari skincare set on Facebook and/or Instagram*. ***This contest is now closed! Thank you all for entering and for your great comments! Congratulations to Adela Patoni, the winner of our contest!*** Prize: One lucky winner will receive an Apothekari Anti-Aging Skincare Set (Value $255) filled with essentials for healthy & beautiful skin. Learn how these products can help beat sun damage this summer. This set includes: Shade SPF 30 Sunscreen: Mineral based, non-whitening & broad spectrum sun protection A is for Anti-Aging Serum: Minimize wrinkles, brighten skin & defend against sun damage Bespoke Vitamin C Serum: Protect against free radicals, brighten skin & exfoliate $40 Gift Certificate to apply to a future Apothekari purchase. How To Enter: Our Canada Day Contest is an online contest and you can enter through Facebook and/or Instagram*. Increase your chances of winning by entering in both methods; however, only one entry is allowed for each method. Facebook Entry: Go to the Canada Day Contest post on the Apothekari Facebook page timeline. Complete 2 steps to qualify as one valid entry: LOVE the contest post, and COMMENT by telling us why you love Canada and who you will celebrate with. Instagram Entry: Go to the Canada Day Contest post on the Apothekari Instagram Feed. Complete 3 steps to qualify as one valid entry: FOLLOW us @apothekariskin, and LOVE the post COMMENT by telling us what you love about Canada and tag 3 friends. Bonus Entry: Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page for a bonus entry. This information will not be shared with any other party outside of Apothekari. Canada Day Contest Conditions: This contest is run by Apothekari Skincare (Harmani Enterprises Ltd.) Contest closes July 3, 2019 (noon, PST) No purchase necessary to enter. Maximum one entry per person per social media platform. Bonus entry for subscribing to newsletter. Participants must be 19+ and a resident of Metro Vancouver to qualify for the prize and free delivery. One (1) winner will be selected in a random draw from among all eligible entries received via all entry methods and contacted by Facebook Messenger, Instagram Direct Message or email. The winner’s full name is required before being awarded the prize. Once contacted, the winner will have 24 hours to reply and accept the prize. If the winner does not meet the contest conditions, then there will be a redraw. The winner will be announced on the Canada Day Contest Post on Apothekari Skincare’s Facebook page and Instagram account once the prize has been accepted. Prize must be accepted as awarded. No substitutions. Not redeemable for cash equivalent. The winner’s home address is required for the delivery of the prize. The value of the prize is based on the retail value of the products. The prize package is valued at $255 and contains the items in our Anti-Aging Set, outlined above. If you wish to purchase the Anti-Aging Set, visit our online store at PhaMix.com. *This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Instagram. By entering, entrants release Instagram and Facebook of responsibility, and agree to Instagram’s and Facebook’s terms of use. Apothekari Clean Skincare Formulations You’re concerned about what you put on your skin and we are too. Our clean skincare formulations are made with naturally safe ingredients that are also free from: Aluminum Baking Soda Silicone Parabens Phthalates Formaldehyde Synthetic Colourants Synthetic Fragrances SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) And, Apothekari Skincare products are never tested on animals. Except the human kind, of course! Apothekari Skincare products are registered with Health Canada. Learn more about our philosophy here… Photo credit: Yasmeen Strang Photography
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All Skin Needs These 3 Anti-Aging Products
All skin benefits from 3 anti-aging products in order to keep it looking its very best – a sunscreen, an antioxidant treatment and a retinoid. In this post, we’re diving into why these products are so important if you’re interested in maintaining healthy and beautiful skin. (This set has been discontinued. Consider our Ageless skin set instead) Shop Apothekari Ageless Skin Set Here’s How Your Skin Ages Skin ages in two main ways – extrinsically and intrinsically – discussed in detail in an earlier post. Extrinsic aging occurs as result of things happening outside our bodies – UV rays, pollution, smoking & smoke exposure as well as diet and lifestyle. These factors are the biggest contributors to skin aging and can lead to thick and coarse skin, age spots and wrinkles. They can also influence the development of many types of skin cancer. Over time, ultraviolet light can damage elastin, collagen and glycosoaminoglycans (GAGs), proteins and sugars naturally found in skin and which help to keep it firm, supple, hydrated and line free. Intrinsic aging occurs naturally over a period of years and is related mainly to our genetic make-up along with hormonal and metabolic processes. If you’re interested to know more, we’ve written a detailed post on what happens to skin at menopause . Don’t be disheartened, though. If you’ve been dealt a bad hand when it comes to your genes, a healthy lifestyle, along with the right kinds of skincare products, can help to counteract many of the effects of your genes. All Skin Needs These 3 Anti-Aging Products Preventing skin damage is one of the best things you can do for your skin in the long term. Exposure to the sun’s rays is thought to be responsible for more than 80% of skin aging and ultimately leads to skin that is saggy, less resilient, wrinkled and possibly discolored. Anything you can do to protect skin from this damage is your best insurance against the effects of aging. Additionally, products that perfect skin to correct damage or imperfections are just as important. These 3 anti-aging products are the ones backed by clinical research and years of experience as offering the most benefit to skin: Sunscreen. A sunscreen that protects against both UVA (AGING) and UVB (BURNING) rays is essential to any skincare routine. Apothekari Shade SPF 30 delivers just that in a non-whitening, mineral based (zinc oxide), non-greasy formulation. Antioxidant. Antioxidants help to protect skin from damage caused by free radicals when we’re exposed to sunlight and pollution, for example. They should be applied to skin every morning along with sunscreen because they help boost the effectiveness of one another. You can find the most widely researched antioxidant, Vitamin C (as L-ascorbic acid) plus a range of other skin beneficial antioxidants such as ferulic acid, green tea, astaxanthin, alpha lipoic acid and pomegranate seed oil in our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, made fresh for each order. Retinoid. We LOVE retinoids at Apothekari! Retinoids are a class of ingredients that are derived from Vitamin A and which include prescription retinoic acid and tazarotene plus over the counter options such as retinol and retinaldehyde. In addition to helping boost collagen and elastic production, they increase skin cell turnover (getting new, healthy skin cells to come to the surface), reverse sun damage and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. We are big fans of retinaldehyde, which delivers results while being one of the gentlest retinoids, making it suitable for most skin types. Retinaldehyde also has antibacterial effects, making it a useful addition to the management of acne. Find retinaldehyde in A is for Anti-Aging, where it is combined with other skin beneficial ingredients. Are you ready to up your skincare game with these 3 anti-aging skincare products?
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A 3 Step Skin Care Routine, Especially Through Menopause
When it comes to putting together a skin care routine through menopause, we’ve got you covered! There’s no shortage of advice on the internet about how to put together a skin care plan, regardless of the stage of life you’re at. Ranging from the 10 Step Korean Skin Care Regimen to 7 Step Schedules and whittled down versions as well, the confusion is understandable. Do we really need 10 steps? Can we get away with just one? Shop Aha-Mazing Clean Gel Cleanser Shop Cloud Nine Foaming Cleansing Creme SHOP RADIANT SKIN SET Like you, our time is precious, so anything that involves too many steps isn’t going to cut it. 7 is a stretch and 10 is most definitely too many! We’d love to tell you that you could get away with just one, but alas, that would be a fairy tale and over here, we’re all about keeping things real. While we’ve blogged previously about 4 steps to great skin, we’ve managed to whittle it down to a doable 3 steps. We hope you’ll agree that this is manageable indeed. Why You Need a Skin Care Routine Great skin comes down to two main factors – your DNA PLUS your daily habits. If you won the gene pool lottery, then lucky you. However, it’s important to acknowledge that one can’t rely completely on a genetic advantage when it comes to skin. Conversely, if your genes are against you, all is not lost. A well thought out and regular skin care routine can have a big impact on how your skin ages regardless of your genes. Of course, what constitutes a good routine can differ depending on who you speak to. It’s no wonder that many of us may be left feeling completely confused and unsure about where to begin. Caring for your skin shouldn’t be (and really isn’t) all that complicated. You just need to know the right steps to follow. Through menopause, many women struggle with dryness while others experience acne, even if it’s not something they’ve had to contend with before. You may feel as if you’re reliving your teen years again! Hormonal fluctuations are responsible for many of these skin changes so it may be necessary to revisit your skin care routine and consider changing up the products you’re using. By selecting and using products best suited to your individual needs and ensuring that you follow a well thought out skin care routine, you’ll be well on your way. Let’s get to it. The 3 Steps Everyone Needs Here are the 3 steps everyone needs in their skin care routine: Step 1: Cleanse Step 2: Protect Step 3: Perfect Step 1: Cleanse Cleansing is an important and often neglected part of a skin care routine. Beyond removing make-up, dirt and oils from your face, cleansing helps to provide a clean skin surface, allowing any products that you apply on your skin to be absorbed better. Cleansing also helps to reduce blemishes, redness and irritation, which may be caused by an accumulation of make-up, pollution, dirt and oil. It’s a matter of personal preference whether you choose a one-step or two-step cleansing method. Over here, we go back and forth between the two, depending on the time of year, how our skin feels, how much make-up we’ve applied and also by how lazy we feel! (It’s not a good reason, we agree. But, we also recognize that we’re human). We offer two cleansers at Apothekari. Cloud Nine Foaming Cleansing Crème may be used by all skin types, including individuals with sensitive skin or rosacea. It’s a very gentle cleanser and if you’ve found your skin getting drier and/or more sensitive, it’s a good one to consider. AHA-Mazing Clean Exfoliating Cleanser Gel, provides gentle exfoliation and foaming action with a triple combination of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). If you prefer more sudsing action or your skin is on the oilier side or you have acne, then this is the cleanser for you. It may be used by all skin types, but caution should be exercised if your skin is overly sensitive skin or if you have rosacea. Step 2: Protect We’ve all heard the saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” and this holds true when it comes to your skin. Prevent skin damage by protecting your skin with the right ingredients and your skin will reap the rewards for years after. Two types of ingredients are important to know about when it comes to protecting skin – antioxidants and sunscreens. Antioxidants include ingredients like Vitamins A, C and E, green tea extract, pomegranate seed oil, coenzyme q10, etc. They exert their action by helping to prevent skin damage associated with free radicals, unstable molecules that are formed by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays and pollution, amongst other things. Free radicals lead to a range of unwanted effects including hyperpigmentation and collagen destruction, associated with lines and sagging. Antioxidants can also help boost the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Sunscreens protect skin by minimizing damage caused by UV rays, which are thought to be responsible for more than 85% of skin aging. Hands down, wearing sunscreen daily is one of the most important things you can do to keep your skin looking its best. You can choose between a chemical or physical blocking sunscreen and the choice is up to you. Well formulated and effective products are available in both categories. We’re big fans of physical sunscreens formulated with zinc oxide because zinc is a very soothing skin ingredient and the only sun filter that delivers protection against the full spectrum of UVA and UVB rays. We know you’re wondering…. is it possible to find a product that combines a sunscreen with antioxidants? Yes, it’s possible to find sunscreens that contain antioxidants and Shade SPF 30 is one. However, most sunscreens don’t contain levels of antioxidants high enough to deliver the maximum protection against free radicals. For the greatest benefit, most experts recommend that you apply both an antioxidant formulation (consider our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum 10 or 15%) and a sunscreen in the morning. Generally, apply the antioxidant first, followed by sunscreen. Step 3: Perfect Once you have the basics of Steps 1 and 2 covered, it’s time to look at your specific skin needs. This will differ depending upon your age, your ethnicity and even where you live (climate, humidity, etc). Whether, you’re worried about wrinkles and fine lines, crows feet, dark circles, hyperpigmentation, dry skin or acne, Step 3 focuses on that. It’s important to find and use treatments that are designed to address your skin’s specific problems. You can choose from a range of products including moisturizers, eye treatments, skin brighteners, acne remedies and various serums. Some treatments, like sunscreens, are designed to be applied during the day. Others, like retinoids (which tend to degrade when exposed to sunlight, are best used at night). Antioxidants, moisturizers, eye creams, skin brighteners etc may be used day and/or night. Whatever you use, give the product a fair chance to make a difference. New skin cells turn over once every four to eight weeks so you need to wait at least that long to determine if the product is working. Regardless of your specific skin needs, one ingredient that’s a must for anyone concerned about healthy and beautiful skin, is a retinoid. Retinoids are derived from Vitamin A and deliver a range of skin benefits including: increasing collagen and elastin production to fight wrinkles, fine lines and skin sag; skin brightening effects, an increase in skin moisture content and a reduction in oil production. They not only help to improve the skin’s appearance, but can also reverse damage caused by the sun. Additionally, retinoids have anti-acne properties, making them a useful addition in the management of acne, which strikes many women through menopause. Apothekari A is for Anti-Aging contains retinaldehyde – a form of retinoid that offers effective yet gentle treatment. It’s well tolerated by most skin types, especially if introduced gradually into your skin care regimen. We know you have lots on your plate; we do too. That’s why we feel that 3 steps in your skin care routine are all you need to achieve healthy and beautiful skin at menopause or at any other phase of your life. Let’s keep things simple and uncomplicated AND with great skin to show for it!
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Why Your Spring Skincare Routine Needs Sunscreen
Today, March 20th, marks the Spring Equinox and we’re sharing tips to help you transition to a spring skincare routine. More in this post. How Can I Take Care of My Skin in Spring? While springtime sun exposure is less dangerous than that in the summer, you still need to be concerned about the potential damage from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays contribute to sunburn (along with some types of skin cancer) while UVA rays penetrate deeper and contribute to signs of skin aging including wrinkles, sagginess, age spots and with skin cancer. For this reason, it’s important to protect your skin during the spring and all year long. It is also a good time to take stock of the products you’re using in preparation to transition over from winter skin care. 5 Reasons Your Spring Skincare Routine Needs Sunscreen It’s not only spring, but year round that you need to pay attention for healthy skin. The main culprit is sun damage and these 5 reasons are why your spring skincare routine must include sunscreen: More Than 3.5 Million New Skin Cancer Cases Each Year. In the United States alone, more than 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. Risk factors for all types of skin cancer include skin that burns easily; blond or red hair; a history of excessive sun exposure, including sunburns; tanning bed use; immune system-suppressing diseases or treatments; and a history of skin cancer. People with more than 50 moles, atypical moles, or large moles are at an increased risk of developing melanoma, as are those with light skin and freckles, and those with a personal or family history of melanoma. Skin Cancer Can Affect Anyone. Regardless of skin color, skin cancer can strike anyone. In patients with skin of colour, it is often diagnosed in its later stages, when it’s more difficult to treat. Research has shown that patients with skin of colour are less likely than Caucasian patients to survive melanoma. They are also more prone to skin cancer in areas that aren’t commonly exposed to the sun, like the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, the groin and the inside of the mouth. They also may develop melanoma under their nails. 90 Percent of all Skin Cancers Attributed to Excessive Sun Exposure. Research indicates that UV light from the sun and tanning beds can both cause melanoma and increase the risk of a benign mole progressing to melanoma. Increasing intermittent sun exposure in childhood and during one’s lifetime is associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Even one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person’s chance of developing melanoma. Five or more between ages 15 and 20 increases one’s melanoma risk by 80 percent and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk by 68 percent. Springtime Sun is Not Safe. In fact, it is sometimes considered more dangerous because the cooler temperatures may fool you into thinking you aren’t getting much sun exposure. Springtime is a good time to purchase a new bottle of sunscreen. Sunscreens expire and can lose their effectiveness after being opened for a year or so. Check the expiry date on your sunscreen and replace if necessary. Daily Sunscreen Use Cuts the Incidence of Melanoma. Research in 2010 showed a reduction by 50%. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and make sure you apply enough. In general, use ¼ teaspoon for your face alone. From head to foot (assuming you’re wearing a bathing suit), apply the equivalent of a shot glass full of sunscreen. Sunscreen breaks down when it is exposed to sunlight, sweat or water so it should be reapplied every two hours or after you are exposed to water or sweating heavily. Sunscreen is an Essential Part of Your Spring Skincare Routine While it’s always important to cleanse, protect skin with antioxidants, repair with retinoids and moisturize, sun protection is #1. Follow these tips to get the most out of sun protection. Practice Sun Smart Habits. Since UV light exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, the American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to practice safe habits: Seek shade and avoid sitting directly in the sun between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and legs, wide-brimmed hats, Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30+. Avoid tanning beds or sun lamps, which are sources of artificial UV radiation that may cause skin cancer. Protect your Eyes. Between five and 10 percent of skin cancers occur on the eyelids according to the Skin Cancer Society. Use UV-blocking sunglasses. Large frames or a wrap-around styles are best. Skin Cancer is Curable. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, the two most common forms of skin cancer, are highly curable if detected early and treated properly. The vast majority of skin cancer deaths are from melanoma, which has a five-year survival rate of 99 percent for people whose melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes. Get Checked Out. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to perform skin self-exams to check for signs of skin cancer and get a skin exam from a doctor. A dermatologist can make individual recommendations as to how often a person needs these exams based on risk factors, including skin type, history of sun exposure and family history. Skin cancer warning signs include changes in size, shape or color of a mole or other skin lesion, the appearance of a new growth on the skin, or a sore that doesn’t heal. If you notice any spots on your skin that are different from the others, or anything changing, itching or bleeding, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist. If you’re anything like me, it’s been a long, cold and grey winter and you’re hungry for springtime sun! Wear your sunscreen, put on your favourite pair of sunglasses and enjoy. Let us know if you have any spring skincare routine tips to share.
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