A deficiency of essential nutrients (including vitamins, minerals, fats, or proteins) can impair the production of new skin cells. Therefore, a healthy diet is necessary for hair, skin, and nails and their appearance. It is also important to take crucial supplements. Start with a high-potency multivitamin/mineral formula and medicated-grade fish oil – two supplements that balance vital skin nutrients for people of all ages.
anti-wrinkle
Why does the skin appear wrinkled? The main culprits are free radical damage from outside (sun, pollution) and inside (cigarette smoke, poor diet). Over time, the amount of fat stored in the layer just below the skin also decreases, leading to sagging skin. As we age, collagen in our skin loses its ability to hold shape. We can blame the decline in hyaluronic acid production: By age 70, most people will have lost about 80 percent of their hyaluronic acid at age 40. This causes the collagen fibers to become fewer and thinner. The skin becomes thinner and less elastic as the collagen and hyaluronic acid network shrink. The glands that secrete natural oils also gradually disappear, leaving the skin dry and itchy.
To prevent wrinkles from forming, eat a diet rich in antioxidants and do your best to avoid free radical exposure. You can also consider taking innovative dietary supplements to help restore collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.
Olive fruit extract and green tea
Olive extract and green tea: An antioxidant of concern for skin health is an olive extract. Population-based studies have shown a negative correlation between olive consumption and the development of wrinkles. In other words, a higher olive intake means fewer wrinkles. Olive fruits (but not leaves) contain myriad polyphenol molecules with excellent antioxidant properties for skin health. In studies conducted by Japanese and Italian researchers, standardized olive fruit extracts containing 10% polyphenols (Opextan) have been shown to prevent skin degeneration caused by free radicals — a process that can lead to wrinkle formation and protect the skin from other damage.
The same applies to green tea extract and its primary polyphenol, catechin gallate (EGCG). This healthy cure-all also protects against free radical damage to the skin, mainly caused by ultraviolet radiation.
How many do you need? The dosage of olive fruit extract (or Opextan) is 60 to 120mg daily. The dosage of green tea extract depends on polyphenol levels, with the usual dose ranging from 150 to 300mg daily.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid, as a significant component of the skin, is mainly involved in promoting and strengthening the skin’s collagen matrix (or structure). When free radicals damage skin, it becomes inflamed, and skin cells become less hyaluronic acid. This leads to the formation of wrinkles. As mentioned earlier, the amount of hyaluronic acid in your skin also decreases with age.
Hyaluronic acid injections are used in medical hydrotherapy to fill in wrinkles. But taking hyaluronic acid supplements may be a more effective solution. For one thing, hyaluronic acid supplements may have longer-lasting effects than injections. And hyaluronic acid supplements are more natural and provide a minimally invasive way to deliver this vital compound into the skin.
Clinical studies have shown that hyaluronic acid supplements can increase skin moisture content, significantly improving dry and rough skin appearance.
How many do you need? The dose used in clinical trials was 120mg per day. A “highly biocompatible” hyaluronic acid supplement is required.
silicon
Silicon is essential for adequately developing skin, hair, and nails, which requires healthy collagen formation. BioSil is a highly bioavailable and stable silicon that increases hydroxyproline levels, which is involved in collagen and elastin production.
Scientists at the University of Brussels in Belgium conducted a 20-week double-blind study involving 50 women (ages 40 to 65) who showed signs of sunburn and premature aging. Half received 10 mg of BioSil, and the other half received a placebo. In the BioSil group, there was a 30% improvement in superficial fine lines, a 50% increase in skin elasticity, and a significant reduction in brittle nails and hair.
How many do you need? The conventional dose of silicon is 5mg twice daily.
Normal aging
Best-selling author on health and Better Nutrition columnist Michael T. Murray, ND, shares his health tips.
BN: You are 53 years old but full of life. What do you think you look like when you are young?
Murray: I think it’s a result of everything I’ve consistently done over the last 25 years of my adult life: my diet, mindset, lifestyle, and dietary supplement plan. When you look at what causes people to age prematurely, you start to see how everything is connected and why it matters, and you can use that to solve everything.
BN: What are the most critical steps you take to slow aging?
Murray: About eight years ago, I started using PGX supplement, a unique dietary fiber matrix. A critical factor in combating aging effects is increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin and stabilizing blood sugar levels within a narrow range. Nothing beats PGX in this regard. I believe my muscle mass and body fat percentage were better in my 40s and 50s than at any point in my adult life due to taking PGX supplements.
BN: Are there any other supplements?
Murray: In addition to PGX, I take a high-potency multivitamin/mineral, a “green food drink,” and a medicinal grade fish oil, as well as various specific antioxidants such as CoQ10, alpha-lipoic acid, and flavanone-rich extracts. If you look up the history of longevity, high flavonoid intake is one of the common characteristics.
]]>While growing up requires plenty of nutrients, not all developing teens need extra supplements. Take, for example, acne. While the theory that diet can directly affect acne is debatable, there is no denying that proper nutrition can help maintain healthy skin. In addition to a healthy diet, young people with acne need to be aware of some unique aspects. Such as banning (or at least limiting) all refined and concentrated simple sugars and restricting the intake of fatty and fried foods. This is easier said than done, especially when it comes to teenagers. Extra supplements can help.
Multi-vitamin and multi-mineral formulation is the best base preparation. Only a few elements in the formula play a role in maintaining skin health. Therefore, intake can be increased appropriately for patients with moderate and severe acne.
zinc
Zinc. Studies have shown that bioavailable zinc is similar to antibiotics in treating acne. A few people see immediate results, but it takes 35 to 40mg doses for about 12 weeks for most people. It is better with picolinic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, or zinc mono thiamine.
chromium
Chrome. It is known to increase the body’s glucose tolerance and skin cells’ insulin tolerance. Studies have shown that chromium supplementation can effectively relieve the symptoms of acne patients. The usual dose is 200-400mg/ day.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 helps the liver break down hormones. For teens, low doses of vitamin B6 can help with acne, mood swings, and sugar cravings during puberty. It has also been successfully used in the premenstrual treatment of acne attacks. The usual dose is 25-100mg daily.
Selenium and vitamin E
Selenium and vitamin E act as glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which help prevent skin inflammation such as acne. Typically, people with acne have reduced levels of glutathione peroxidase. Studies have shown an increase in glutathione peroxidase levels and a significant reduction in symptoms after treatment with vitamin E and selenium. Typical doses are 100-200 ius for vitamin E and 100-400 micrograms for selenium.
While good skin is only one of the most important reasons to eat a healthy diet and take supplements than to be healthy, there is no doubt that such a reason is a great temptation for teenagers, especially those who suffer from acne. As for how parents can persuade their children to take them, my advice is to make them understand the benefits of these supplements as well as possible. Get them to cooperate with you; they will appreciate it later.
Fish Oil and the Adolescent Brain.
Most people know that fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, is suitable for maintaining brain health. But you may not know that the results of two new studies suggest that an unbalanced fat intake during adolescence may have long-lasting effects on learning and memory.
When researchers at the University of SAN Pablo in Spain fed teenage mice a diet high in saturated fatty acids but with average calories, the mice showed significant memory loss and reduced learning ability. But the same diet made no difference in adult mice. The researchers examined the brains of adolescent mice and found structural changes in brain cells in the hippocampus, the memory center. They also found partial loss of leptin, a hormone secreted by fat tissue that helps maintain cognitive function.
In a review of 185 studies, scientists at the University of Liverpool found that fish oil minimizes the adverse effects of junk food on the brain. Recent studies have shown that a junk diet high in fat may disrupt neurogenesis and affect the production of new nerve cells. But a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may prevent these effects by stimulating the brain in this area.
The evidence from these studies suggests that fish oil is essential for adolescents. The recommended dose is 1000mg of EPA and DHA daily.
]]>Treating yourself to some pampering services has many documented benefits. Some health benefits of self-care include controlling blood pressure, relieving muscle tension, optimizing mood, clarifying effects, and reducing stress. While many lifestyle habits can affect these health indicators, such as food choices, exercise, and weight management, a simple fix done in your home is a simple and convenient way to optimize your health. Here are five items in your home that can be used for simple beauty products and restorations.
Turmeric powder
You may be highly familiar with turmeric in foods, which gives curries their yellow coloring, or you may have noticed fresh turmeric next to ginger in the grocery store. Although turmeric has been used in remedies and foods worldwide for many years, its popularity has recently increased as its health benefits, and uses have become more widely known. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which is responsible for many of the health properties associated with spice. Antioxidant and inflammation-reducing properties are two primary health attributes of turmeric, which is why you’ll often see turmeric in dietary supplements. While turmeric can add flavor, color, and health benefits to foods, you can get a higher concentrated form of this health-promoting spice in the form of dietary supplements, such as capsules.
When it comes to using turmeric to help create home beauty products, it seems it can help brighten the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. There could be several reasons for darker eyes, such as insufficient fluid intake and lack of sleep, and there could even be a genetic factor. While it’s important to address lifestyle factors contributing to discoloration, such as dehydration and lack of sleep, a turmeric-based eye patch can do the trick in the interim. Mix one tablespoon of turmeric powder, the kind you use in cooking, with one tablespoon of buttermilk to make a paste. Make the turmeric paste, gently apply it under your eyes and leave it on for 15 minutes. Gently wipe away the paste with a warm, damp towel. One caveat: Turmeric stains, so be careful where the paste touches the surface, and use a cloth that is not afraid of staining.
Coconut oil
Hair masks are a great way to moisturize strands, smooth hair, and reduce frizziness, and they may even help soothe dry scalp and dandruff. There are a variety of ingredients that can be beneficial in hair masks; However, the joint base is often oil. Many oils, such as olives and avocados, are thought to help optimize hair quality and texture, but one is believed to reign supreme: coconut oil.
Coconut oil is an excellent base for hair masks, and experts in the hair care field have found that it can help hair be healthier, thicker, and longer. In addition, professionals say coconut oil helps soothe the hair’s cuticle, helping to nourish the scalp and smooth out split ends. There are several ways to use coconut oil to optimize hair health. You can apply liquid coconut oil to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes overnight to increase its healing power. In addition, you can combine coconut oil (about two tablespoons) with honey and eggs to make a mask for moisture. For both types of hair masks, be sure to massage gently from the bottom to the tip. When you are ready to wash the show, be aware that it may take a few shampoos to obliterate the oil, but rest assured that the moisture will remain the same!
Essential oil
Don’t you love the smell of spa treatments? Spas are usually filled with emollient flowers and eucalyptus trees and are known for their calming scent. As part of a family spa day, you can create the same relaxing experience with essential oils. One of the best ways I’ve found is to apply essential oil to a wet towel or small washcloth, which can be used in a few different ways. Fill a bowl with ice water, add your chosen essential oil, dip the cloth in, and squeeze out any excess water. Roll tightly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy your spa towels, remove them from the fridge as needed and gently apply them to your face for a few minutes, or use them to wipe your hands. If it’s more appealing on a cold winter day, you can also microwave the towel for one minute.
There are so many essential oils to suit your tastes! You can use the herb to help you relax before bed as part of your nightly routine. If you want to liven up your morning, you can use mint or orchid, and if you wish to create a scent that mimics your favorite spa treatment, try mixing eucalyptus, lemon, and emollient flowers on your towel.
sugar
Homemade sugar scrubs smell great and are a great way to exfoliate your skin. The goal of exfoliating the skin is to get rid of the top layer of dead skin cells, allowing new cells to form on the surface. This can help lift dullness, make your skin look brighter and more vibrant, and help moisturize the skin because lotions and products can better penetrate new skin cells after removing dead skin cells.
To make an exfoliating scrub at home, you only need two ingredients: brown sugar and coconut oil (in solid form). Whisk together the brown sugar and solid coconut oil in a two-to-one ratio until the mixture begins to take on a creamy texture. During this mixing process, the fragrance of your choice can also be added. Peppermint or lemon essential oil is an important addition to a body scrub, or add vanilla extract to the mix for a warmer scent. Coconut oil scrubs work exceptionally well when they cure, so if it starts to liquefy, just put it in the fridge and let it set. To enjoy your scrub, apply it to your skin, massage until the sugar grit dissipates, and then rinse off. It’s that simple!
honey
Yes, honey is delicious and flavorful when added to oatmeal and tea, but it also has some unique properties that make it a beautiful ingredient for homemade facial masks. Honey is beneficial when applied to the skin because it has antibacterial properties and acts as an antioxidant. In addition, honey is a natural exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells and reveal new ones underneath.
For those who need an extra boost of exfoliation, combining honey with oatmeal may be just what you need. Mix one or two tablespoons of honey with one tablespoon of grated oatmeal and gently apply it to your face. Leave the mask for 15 minutes, wipe it off with a warm washcloth, and wash your face with a regular cleanser. Oatmeal contains inflammation-reducing properties and a compound called saponin that allows it to absorb excess oil. You can take this mask a step further by adding cinnamon. The spice has bacteria-fighting properties and acts as an antioxidant, helping to nourish the skin further.
Many simple ingredients can be incorporated into a home self-care routine, many of which are likely already on hand and will serve multiple purposes in daily life. While these ideas are simple and great, consult your doctor if you have any health problems, as these homemade beauty products are not meant to replace fixes prescribed by your doctor. Every day is a good day to be kind to yourself and take care of your physical and mental health. Use these simple and convenient ideas as a step in taking care of yourself; It’s as simple as a 15-minute face mask.
]]>As someone with curly hair, I’ve had many struggles learning how to care for my hair. Years later, as a dermatologist who spends my days observing and fixing hair and scalp disorders, I have witnessed many patients make some of the same mistakes I did.
Read on for an in-depth look at some of the common conditions I see in clinics and ways to care for hair and scalp health.
Hair breakage
We’ve all been there — seriously, whip out a hair dryer, iron, or curling iron and make ourselves look like the cover of a celebrity magazine. Sitting in a hair salon for hours to get a great haircut that will refresh our makeup in the summer. How we style and color our hair can affect the health of our hair; for example, improper perms can lead to dry, brittle hair. Intuitively, we knew that applying 400 degrees directly to fragile hair might not be a good idea, but we did it anyway.
So how do heat and chemicals damage hair? Why does it cause hair to break and fall out? These traumatic injuries are thought to damage the hair shaft’s protective layer, the stratum corneum. In turn, the hair’s protein structure is altered, leading to acquired nodular alopecia, a typical hair shaft anomaly in which thin strands form along the coat, presenting as dry, dull hair that breaks easily at the light spots.
If you plan to use thermal modeling (and I know you do), here are some tips to help you reduce or even prevent heat damage:
Use ultra-low heat setting whenever possible to achieve the desired results – hotter doesn’t always mean better!
Make a significant effort to reduce the frequency of heat setting tools – three times a week is recommended instead of three times a day. Or how about once a week?
Limit the time your hair spends in contact with an iron, curling iron, or curling iron.
If possible, let your hair air dry — to speed up the process and protect your hair, try wrapping your hair in a towel. Use a stretchy absorbent cotton towel, recommended, so it doesn’t tangle or dry with heat.
Apply a heat protectant before setting. Professional-grade heat protectors can help prevent damage from heat and friction from perm tools.
Dry, brittle hair
Hair stylists will often answer questions about what products to use to treat dry hair. However, patients do occasionally raise these issues with me. As long as we’ve discussed any underlying or co-existing scalp problems, I usually start with a discussion of shampoo and conditioner to discuss how to keep hair healthy.
Shampoo cleans your hair and scalp of dirt, contaminants, excess oil, dead skin, and other greasy residue. While most shampoos also incorporate conditioners to reduce frizz, separate conditioners are specifically designed to increase hair manageability, reduce hair static, and replace natural oils removed during shampooing to add shine and shine. In addition, conditioners can help care for hair after chemically and heat-treated straightening, blow drying, and dyeing.
Here are some ingredients I recommend for cleansing and conditioning:
Shea Butter Conditioner
The ingredient has long been touted as a staple by curlers; There are good reasons for this. Shea butter conditioner can be used daily styling to help reduce frizz and prevent split ends or as an enhanced nighttime hair treatment.
Argan oil, shea butter, and amino acids
Shampoos and conditioners with these three ingredients provide extreme moisturizing care for dry, wavy, curly hair and dyed hair.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is rich in saturated fat, moisturizes hair and scalp, and is suitable for rough, dry skin.
dandruff
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp — which means we need to address any underlying inflammatory conditions hindering good hair growth, especially if they lead to itching and frequent rubbing and scratching, which is unsuitable for hair growth.
Squamosis is a chronic inflammatory response to skin problems. It often affects the scalp and is characterized by redness, flaking, and peeling. The phenomenon is thought to be multi-factorial, caused by a combination of genetic and external factors such as stress and infection. Another chronic scalp condition that dermatologists routinely repair is called seborrheic dermatitis; It has some overlapping features with the squamous disease – although most of us only know it as belonging to “dandruff.” Seborrheic dermatitis mainly occurs in areas with dense sebaceous glands, such as the face, ears, chest, and scalp. The sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which encourages the growth of a yeast called Malassezia. This yeast is a normal part of the skin flora, even in people who don’t have dandruff, So we don’t fully understand why some people seem to have an immune response to it and others don’t. However, since the link between dandruff and Malassezia is well established, various agents can target the yeast and the associated inflammatory response. The following list highlights some of the best ingredients for repairing seborrheic dermatitis and squamous disease; Think of these as scalp treatments, not hair treatments; So, for excellent results, you can use regular shampoo and conditioner to prevent your hair from becoming dry itself!
Coal tar
Coal tar is a trendy off-formula remedy for stubborn dandruff. It can also help repair symptoms of the scaly disease that affect the scalp, such as peeling, itching, and flaking. Its role is to relax dead skin cells and reduce skin cell renewal, thus reducing scale formation.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid helps with thick peeling; This peeling can lead to the irritation, itching, and redness associated with scaly disease and seborrheic dermatitis.
Zinc pyrithione
Zinc pyrithione is found in many dandruff shampoos; It controls the growth of fungi and yeast; Fungi and yeast are thought to be critical contributors to the inflammatory response associated with dandruff.
Selenium sulfide
Selenium sulfide is another anti-dust ingredient found in many anti-dandruff shampoos and has anti-fungal properties.
For thinning hair
Hair loss is such a complex topic that an entire textbook on dermatology could be devoted to it. So it’s no surprise that, as a small part of a blog post on healthy hair tips, we can only skim through it. Hair loss can happen for several reasons – genetics, stress, prescription medications, hormonal changes, rapid weight loss, poor nutrition, or any combination of these factors can all contribute to hair loss. For standard male and female pattern hair loss due to a variety of genetic and age factors, here are some valuable products:
B vitamins and coffee extract
B vitamins, including niacinamide (vitamin B3), panthenol (a form of vitamin B5), and coffee extract, are prevalent in thickening shampoos. These ingredients are thought to stimulate hair follicles and increase the hair shaft’s diameter, making hair appear thicker and fuller.
Marine collagen
We know that collagen is essential for hair growth; It provides protein and amino acids to make keratin. Marine collagen derived from wild cod has good scientific data to back it up as a nutritional supplement to promote hair growth. Note that this supplement has not been studied in a pregnant patient population; Therefore, I recommend avoiding it during pregnancy.
For persistent, rapid, or progressive hair loss, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist as soon as possible to determine the cause, rule out the underlying condition, and develop a multifaceted repair plan.
As always, please get in touch with me if you have any further questions. I hope you reach your hair care goals in 2023, and your beauty will get higher!
]]>Achieving optimal nutrition through diet alone is just not realistic. We all try, but It’s hard to meet the dietary recommendations daily, especially for most of us with a busy work schedule. For those of us who cannot get all these requirements through food, including me, I recommend daily vitamins and nutritional supplements to help support our overall health plus that of our skin, hair, and nails.
Vitamin C is essential for our body and skin health. It is a crucial nutrient our skin needs to make collagen. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. In addition, to hiding, it also supports our muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. Collagen is lost over time due to aging, which manifests as sagging of skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that helps fight premature aging induced by the sun and our environment. It is a water-soluble nutrient that is not produced by our bodies. Therefore we must obtain it through diet. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruit such as lemon, oranges, and grapefruit; vegetables including bell peppers, broccoli, kale, and Brussel sprouts, to name a few.
Daily supplementation of vitamin C at 500-1000mg can be taken for those who cannot keep up with dietary recommendations. Because it is water-soluble and excreted through urine, over-ingesting and toxicity are uncommon.
Vitamin E is another essential nutrient, like vitamin C, with antioxidant properties. The two often work better together. Vitamin E helps prevent DNA damage induced by free radicals generated by the sun and pollutants. It also helps to strengthen our immune system and to avoid blood clots. Many topical formulations of vitamin E plus C are available to help fight sun damage and reverse signs of aging.
Vitamin E is fat-soluble and can be found in leafy greens, nuts, avocado, and plant oil such as sunflower oil. Since vitamin E is fat-soluble, it is not as quickly metabolized as vitamin C. To avoid build-up and toxicity, limiting supplementation to < 15mg daily.
There are numerous health benefits from omega-3s. These essential fats need to be consumed through food or supplements as our bodies cannot produce them naturally. Fatty acids are a necessary component of cellular membranes and help fight inflammation. They also may play a role in the prevention of some chronic diseases.
Over time our skin dries and dulls from chronic sun exposure and natural aging. Omega 3s help to decrease inflammation and repair the skin barrier, allowing our skin to function correctly and form that healthy “glow.” Omega-3s have also been found to help with chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3, but taking a fish oil supplement daily is a great alternative.
The body’s microbiome plays a vital role in keeping our body healthy and balanced. We know that there’s often an imbalance between good and bad bacteria in many inflammatory diseases.
Daily probiotic supplements help decrease bloating in patients with IBS and decrease the amount of inflammation seen in individuals with chronic skin diseases such as eczema. Clinical studies have shown that in patients with atopic dermatitis who took daily probiotics, there was a decrease in the frequency of topical steroid application compared to that in the control group.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin made on our skin upon UV exposure. It has numerous biological effects on our body, including promoting bone health, modulating inflammation, and hair health. Research has shown that vitamin D may also play a role in modulating autoimmune disease by regulating gut bacteria.
Individuals who experience extensive and diffuse hair loss and brittle hair often have vitamin D deficiency. Most people do not synthesize sufficient amounts of vitamin D from sun exposure alone, and chronic sun exposure is not recommended for the risk of skin cancer and aging. It is best to consume vitamin D through supplements and food. Fatty fish, soy products, and egg yolks are high in vitamin D. Taking a daily supplement of 800-1000IU is recommended for the average adult.
Biotin is a water-soluble B7 vitamin needed by our body to convert nutrients into energy. It is essential to our body’s daily function, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Biotin also plays a vital role in maintaining strong and healthy nails and hair. Exactly how biotin works are unclear. It’s been found to strengthen keratin, the building blocks of our skin, hair, and nails. Clinical studies have shown that biotin supplements can improve hair growth and strengthen brittle nails.
Taking a biotin supplement daily helped me recover from my postpartum hair loss. I recommend ones containing a few other vitamins and minerals, including zinc. Zinc helps to fight free radical damage, and like biotin, it is essential for cellular metabolism, immunity, and fighting inflammation.
Acne is the most common condition that brings individuals to my office. Acne doesn’t just affect teenagers–a handful of adults in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and even older will be afflicted by acne.
Hormonal acne in women can be frustrating. It manifests as deep pimples on the cheeks, jawline, chin, and even neck, often worsening around their periods. Although the most effective treatments are prescription medications to counter the hormone flares, not everyone can tolerate these treatments. Below are two natural ways I’ve found to help my skin stay clear without drugs.
Spearmint has well-known anti-androgen effects. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Spearmint modulates hormones that are increased during our menstrual cycle. These hormones then stimulate our oil glands, leading to deep cystic-like pimples around menses. Clinical studies have shown that 1 cup of spearmint tea twice daily has moderate effects on improving hormonal acne.
Turmeric has long been used for centuries as medicine, a trendy ingredient in India. Curcumin is an active compound isolated from turmeric with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Being one of the most heavily studied spices, turmeric has shown many promising results in laboratory studies. Curcumin has demonstrated potential in inhibiting propionibacterium, a crucial bacteria involved in the pathogenesis of acne. In addition to acne, turmeric may help fight psoriasis, eczema, and even aging. Given that topical formulations such as skincare products or masks can irritate and stain the skin yellow, I recommend daily supplementation in powder form. Consider adding turmeric to your smoothie, curry, or tea–this is an easy, effective, and multipurpose way to add more antioxidants to your diet.
Remember that great skin, hair, and nails are more than what you put on the–diet and nutrition play a huge role. Combining a good diet with regular exercise, adequate time for self-care, and stress relief will ensure a clear mindset, healthy body, and glowing skin.
]]>You can typically lose about 100 hairs from your body daily. Hair growth cycles usually allow for some shedding to occur. Ask your doctor if hair loss seems excessive or has changed from normal. If you’ve addressed the underlying cause but still want more options, ask your doctor about some of these additional choices for optimizing the health of your hair.
Protein
The most basic need for proper hair growth remains adequate protein consumption. The average adult woman should consume forty-six grams, and the average adult male should consume fifty-six grams daily. Athletes, pregnant or breastfeeding people, or recovering from an illness should consume more than average.
Meat and fish represent the best sources of protein. It can also be found in eggs, dairy, beans, nuts and seeds, and small amounts in grains. Eat a variety of freshly prepared foods daily. Protein powder can be used for those who have difficulty consuming enough calories.
Stress Management
Stress remains a well-known reason for excess hair loss. Having elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol can cause increased hair shedding. When one hormone stays too high, others often remain imbalanced as a consequence.
Increased stress can cause general hormone chaos, generally feeling unwell and shedding more hair. Estrogen, in particular, can become unbalanced in this way and be the cause of hair loss. Stress can contribute to poor sleep, and elevated cortisol levels can contribute to blood sugar imbalances.
Blood Sugar Balance
Imbalanced blood sugar, feeling “hangry,” grumpy, or jittery when going too long between meals can lead to increased hair shedding. Try to minimize consumption of processed sugar and processed simple carbohydrates.
Keep protein snacks handy and eat meals at regular times. It is possible to have large swings in blood sugar throughout the day and not be diabetic. However, talk to your doctor if you feel like your blood sugar fluctuations are impacting your day-to-day life.
Collagen
Collagen supplements have become very popular to boost skin, hair, and nail health. Collagen can be produced from fish, poultry, or other livestock. It represents the main component of connective tissue in animals and humans. It comprises an essential part of bones, cartilage, skin, tendons, and ligaments.
Research on the effectiveness of taking collagen as a supplement remains limited. Still, preliminary studies have found it beneficial for improving skin elasticity and hydration and generally benefit aging skin. It can also support healthy wound healing. It remains typically safe to take and has no known adverse reactions.
Bone Broth
Bone broth offers a fantastic way to get essential micro and macronutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fat, protein, and collagen. You can make it at home quickly or buy ready-made. It doesn’t have to be complicated — simply use bones and veggie scraps you already had from previous meals.
Save anything you want to use in the freezer until ready to cook. Put everything in a slow cooker covered with water for 12–24 hours. Add salt and fresh or dried herbs to add taste.
Zinc
Zinc represents a vital micronutrient, primarily obtained from consuming meat and fish. Inadequate zinc levels remain common in people with digestive disorders and those who do not eat meat.
Numerous studies have looked into zinc insufficiency and hair loss or poor hair growth, with varying levels of effectiveness depending on the patient population. However, it represents a helpful treatment. Dosing zinc properly is likely essential for optimal points. Ask your doctor about the correct dose of zinc for your individual needs.
Iron
Low iron levels contribute to poor hair growth, abnormal hair loss, and fatigue. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia or low red blood cells. When you don’t have enough red blood cells, oxygen and nutrients do not circulate your body optimally, and hair growth becomes less of a priority for your body.
Ask your doctor about a blood test to see if you need iron, as taking too much iron can be harmful, and people with certain conditions should never take iron supplements.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C deficiency — not tied to having hair loss by itself — remains helpful in other areas that assist with healthy hair growth. Taking vitamin C with iron helps iron to absorb better. If iron deficient, you may strengthen your iron levels faster by taking vitamin C. Collagen formation in the body also requires adequate vitamin C levels.
Selenium
Selenium represents a vital trace nutrient essential for producing the body’s most potent antioxidant, glutathione. Selenium deficiency has been associated with changes in hair pigmentation. One study in chemotherapy patients found less hair loss with selenium supplementation.
Discuss any medication interactions with your doctor before taking supplements. Excess selenium proves toxic; please consult a medical professional for a proper dose. Brazil nuts offer an excellent source of selenium.
B Vitamins
B vitamins, often called the B complex, consist of several very different but overlapping vitamins. Four of them have essential roles in hair health: Riboflavin (vitamin B2), biotin (vitamin B7), folate (vitamin B9), and cobalamin (vitamin B12). A balanced healthy diet does not require supplementation of B vitamins. However, deficiency can happen from poor nutrient absorption, inadequate intake, or excessive stress.
Riboflavin deficiency occurs very rarely in developed countries as it comprises a wide variety of foods. Supplementation is usually unnecessary, although high doses are sometimes used to treat conditions unrelated to hair loss.
The body can make biotin, and supplementation is unnecessary for healthy individuals; deficiency has never been found in people eating a regular diet with no health conditions. Weakness may occur with alcoholism, pregnancy, and certain gastrointestinal disorders.
Therapeutic supplementation may be beneficial for hair, skin, and nail health. However, the evidence is mixed. Be aware that taking biotin supplements can interfere with blood test results. Tell your doctor if taking biotin supplements before having blood tests done. You may need to discontinue for some time beforehand to ensure accurate results.
Folate deficiency occurred more often until the fortification of grains became common practice in developed countries. Stress, pregnancy, excessive alcohol consumption, and malabsorption signify the most common reasons for deficiency. Different forms of folate have other uses (best determined on an individual basis) and include folic acid, folate, and folinic acid. Folate interferes with some chemotherapy medications, so do not take this without your doctor’s approval while using chemotherapy drugs.
Vitamin B12 deficiency remains familiar with digestive issues, vegan or vegetarian diets, and the elderly. Healthy people with adequate diets generally don’t need to supplement.
B12 and folate are often taken together in supplements because they have similar functions in DNA synthesis — essential for hair growth. A gene is known as methyltetrahydrofolate reductase, or MTHFR regulates folate metabolism. People with this genetic mutation may need specific supplements to better process their folate and B12. Some studies have found people with low folate, and B12 in their red blood cells have higher rates of hair loss.
A Well-Rounded Approach
Hair growth requires good nutrition, stress management, and addressing any underlying causes with your doctor. A well-rounded approach to healthy hair includes all of these things. As with anything, proper dosage remains essential. Doses too small proved ineffective, and doses too large can cause adverse effects.
Talk to a licensed naturopathic doctor or a registered dietician for help with individualized treatment plans for your unique needs.
]]>Most people are surprised to learn that sunburns are a type of radiation burn. Yes, you read that right!
The sunlight that brightens our planet during the daytime is just one type of a broad spectrum of energy rays produced by the sun. Other kinds of energies emitted by the sun include x-rays, gamma rays, and ultraviolet radiation, to name just a few. Ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B rays from the sun are sometimes abbreviated UVA and UVB. Together they are referred to as “UVR” or ultraviolet radiation.
Some UVR passes through the ozone layer of our atmosphere and can penetrate the top layer of our skin. This is a good thing because UVR helps humans produce vitamin D—an essential nutrient for immune function, mood, and bone health. It also helps us deliver beta-endorphin, a feel-good neurochemical that helps boost our mood and reduces pain.
The downside of these UVR rays is that they can damage our cells and our DNA and RNA when we’ve been exposed to too many of them for too long. (Think, a long afternoon in the direct sunlight without sun protection).
UVA rays, in particular, can also create what are known as free radicals, or oxidants, in our epidermal and dermal tissues, which damage cell membranes by oxidizing them. This oxidative damage impairs cell signaling and creates an environment of oxidative stress in our bodies, which over time can damage organs like our hearts, blood vessels, and brain. Not good!
The redness or damage you see from sunburn is the same redness or damage you’d see from a radiation burn. A sunburn is just your body’s way of telling you that your DNA and RNA have been damaged and that there are too many free radicals in your system. It’s the body’s best way of telling us to take a break from the sun, allow our skin to heal, and take better care of our skin the next time we go outside.
It should be stated that prevention is always the best medicine and that it’s a much better strategy to never get a burn in the first place than to try to reduce skin damage after it occurs. You can never wholly reverse sun damage, no matter how many products you apply or take, so please read the next section about how to prevent sun damage (some of the tips may surprise you!).
Aloe vera is probably among the most well-known plant medicines for helping to soothe sunburned skin. We think it works to provide relief in two ways—first by cooling the skin and, second, enabling the skin to heal by providing antioxidants. Aloe works a lot as a Band-Aid does—it doesn’t undo the wound, but it helps protect the wounded skin while it’s healing naturally. The best forms of aloe to use on your skin are aloe preparations that are organic or come with minimal additives and no fragrances. Note: because aloe doesn’t provide any sun protection, it’s not an effective sunscreen, and you shouldn’t try to use it as one. Using it before sun exposure will not decrease your chances of getting burned.
Vulnerary herbs can help skin heal after burns and wounds by providing them with a protective barrier and delivering critical nutrients to tissues they need to heal. Calendula cream, for example, is a popular vulnerable herbal preparation that can help the skin heal from burns more quickly. Other vulnerable herbal creams include comfrey and Centella (also known as Gotu kola).
For a more refreshing type of relief, keep these creams or oils in the refrigerator to cool them down before using them. The reduced temperature will provide cooling comfort when you apply them to your skin that can help to relieve some of the pain associated with sunburn.
St. John’s wort is another vulnerable herb, and it comes in an oil that can be applied to the skin to help heal from burns of all types. Still, it comes with a critical warning: Do not apply St. John’s wort oil before you go into the sun, or you’ll get a nasty sunburn very quickly. If you apply St. John’s wort oil, use it at night onto sunburned areas, then shower it off after a few hours. Ensure that you’ve completely removed it from your skin before going into the sun again.
Preventing sunburns is the absolute best method for avoiding sun-induced skin damage. Here are my favorite evidence-based tips for doing so.
The amount of UV radiation that reaches the earth’s surface varies throughout the day in a predictable pattern. We can measure it using the UV index, which is reported (along with temperature, wind conditions, etc.) by most weather agencies each day in the summer. The UV index provides you with a rating between 0-10. Ten is the highest UVR rating, and 0 means that no UVR is reaching the earth’s surface at that moment.
Typically, mid-day hours (between 10 am – 4 pm) are when the concentration of UVR is the highest. If you can, try to avoid activities that require you to stay in direct sunlight during this time. Use your weather app or a local weather website to check the UV index for the day and plan activities, and even clothing, around this if possible.
The UV index varies based on the time of year and cloud coverage, so don’t make assumptions if you can help it. For example, if you’re planning to go for a walk or run, check the forecast and try to pick a time in the early morning or late evening when the sun is not intense and the UV index is under 2. You should still stay sun-aware and consider using at least physical barriers when outside. But, by choosing a time of day with a UV index of 0, you avoid having to wear protective gear outdoors. You can stay out as long as you’d like, versus planning a walk during the day when the UV index is 8, and you’ll need to reapply SPF routinely, seek shelter sooner, and keep your protective gear on.
Shade is an excellent preventive medicine—it naturally reduces UVR without the need to apply chemicals to the skin. It’s a type of physical sunscreen. Baseball caps, bucket hats, sun hats, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, umbrellas, and shade from trees, buildings, or other structures protect us from direct sunlight by creating shaded areas over our bodies. Research shows that you can reduce (but not eliminate) the amount of UV radiation that reaches your skin by standing in the shade (95% reduction), under a sun umbrella (about an 80% reduction in UVR), or using sun hats (15-75%). Remember that you still have to wear sunscreen if you’re out all day in the sun, even under a physical sunscreen like an umbrella, because they don’t completely block all UVR.
There’s been a lot of hype recently about antioxidants protecting skin from sun damage. Clients have been asking me to take a sunscreen pill instead of using a physical sunscreen lotion or barriers like the ones listed above. Unfortunately, the answer is no, and here’s why.
Our bodies are designed to thrive when we consume a diet rich in omega 3s and antioxidant-containing plant foods because these foods help us repair our cell membranes. Cell membranes are constantly damaged by activities of daily living, including movement, breathing, and more. It’s natural to incur a small amount of damage, and healthy foods help us repair that damage. So, whether or not you go into the sun, you should consume plenty of omega 3s and antioxidants every single day to stay healthy.
But antioxidants and omega 3s don’t prevent exposure to radiation or other harmful oxidative stresses, and they can’t completely protect cells from the damage caused by those exposures because spending hours in the sun will create a radiation load that exceeds your body’s ability to handle naturally. In the same way, you wouldn’t drink green tea each day and expect it to prevent a burn caused by touching a hot pan on a stovetop you; couldn’t expect the antioxidants in green tea to avoid sunburn.
Antioxidants can help enhance the effects of chemical sunscreens and may help you stay in the sun for a few minutes longer before experiencing a burn. Still, it would allow if you didn’t give up sunscreen or expect to stay in the sun for hours simply because you’ve increased your intake of antioxidants. It just doesn’t work like that.
I’ve heard the argument that people used a healthy diet to prevent sunburns before sunscreen was invented. But this isn’t wholly true. First, our earth’s ozone layer was the original sunscreen throughout most human history. Human activity and damage to the environment have reduced over the last two centuries. Ozone reflects UVR into the atmosphere, and the reduction in the ozone layer means that more harmful UV rays than ever are reaching the earth’s surface. So, you can’t expect natural foods to protect you from this unnatural level of radiation completely.
Additionally, humans spend much more time outside throughout most of the year. This allowed them to slowly and naturally increase the melanin content of their sun-exposed skin, which provided natural sun protection by the time the height of summer rolled around. Most of us now spend our time under roofs and don’t have a base tan by the time we hit the beach in the summer, so we lack the natural protection of melanin. This is why our skin is vulnerable to DNA and RNA damage from UV radiation and why skin cancers like melanoma are more common in areas of the world that tend to receive the least amount of sunlight in fall, winter, and spring.
So, now that you’ve learned to think like a scientist about nutrition and sun exposure, here’s the good news: we do know about specific types of antioxidants when it comes to overall health and, particularly, skin health.
Green tea creams and EGCg-containing creams increase skin health by providing skin with antioxidants, precursors to collagen formation, and hydration. There is some evidence that green tea and EGCg cream can help reduce the damage from UVR in laboratory settings when applied before sun exposure. To mimic this in real life, use green tea or EGCg cream at night or in the mornings under SPF-containing creams. The extra protection will make your skin happy, and it can’t hurt!
SIMILARLY, Vitamin C, and vitamin E creams have shown mild abilities in the lab to help boost skin’s protective abilities against sun damage. I double-checked with one of iHerb’s makeup experts, Kylie Hawkins, about how to use these products because they can be a bit tricky to use when it comes to sun-exposure timing. Vitamin C, for example, can be photo-sensitizing, so if you use a vitamin C serum, use it at night and wash it off in the morning a few hours before sun exposure. Great news, though: vitamin E-containing creams can be used before sun exposure and will enhance the skin-protecting properties of your SPF. Bonus, vitamin E is highly emollient, which means if you have dry skin, it will help keep it extra hydrated.
Using products that include SPF is a great way to have everyday protection from sun exposure. Many makeup foundations, primers, and moisturizing creams come with SPF added. Pick those up and use them during the summer!
But those SPF protections you put on in the morning will only last an hour or two, so you should expect to have to reapply SPF at some point during the day and learn to protect the rest of your skin from sun damage using a sunscreen lotion.
Sunscreen lotions usually contain one of two types of sunscreens: physical or chemical.
As you can see, there are tons of ways to help your body heal sunburn and to enjoy the sunshine while protecting your skin. Have fun and be safe this summer!
]]>As a lover of non-toxic, clean beauty and skincare products, I’m here to share my view on added fragrance, whether or not it should all be considered harmful, and how you can choose a scent that’s safe for you and your body.
So, what exactly is “fragrance” anyway? According to the FDA, the fragrance is a “combination of chemicals that gives each perfume or cologne (including those used in other products) its distinct scent.”
Added fragrances can be found in personal care products like shampoo, soap, sunscreen, deodorant, lotion, makeup, and more. You can find these scents labeled on the back of packages as “fragrance,” “perfume,” “parfum,” “essential oil blend,” or “aroma.”
If you’re wondering if these labels sound a bit too general, that’s precisely the problem that many consumers have. The FDA considers fragrances a “trade secret,” meaning that brands do not legally need to disclose their ingredients individually on labels.
This has caused concern for many people who want to avoid allergens and other chemicals negatively impacting their health. This lack of transparency has caused many brands to get away with putting toxic chemicals in their scents–some of which have been linked to cancer, hormonal disruption, developmental issues, skin sensitivities, and more.
Knowing what fragrances are in your beauty products is crucial if you’re someone like me with sensitive skin. Before starting my non-toxic journey, I had numerous breakouts and rashes from skincare and beauty products with mysterious “fragrances.”
I recently went on a trip where I got an unexpected headache from artificially scented bath products. All this goes to show, you never know where these scents may be lurking!
You might be thinking that I’m parked in the “all fragrances are bad” camp. However, that’s not exactly true! I believe there are great brands with fresh, smelling, safe fragrances. There are many pros when it comes to indulging in aromas, such as:
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that there are cons when it comes to using toxic perfumes that are ridden with chemicals, including:
We should educate ourselves about the added fragrances in our favorite beauty products and cosmetics with all of this in mind. But how exactly do we know what’s good and what’s wrong?
First and foremost, when shopping for a new product, always check the label. If a brand is hiding its ingredients behind the word “fragrance,” you have every reason to be concerned.
In my opinion, we have every right to know the ingredients in the products we’re using. Some brands may display their fragrance blend with a long list of ingredients, which may seem alarming, but this doesn’t by nature mean they’re “unclean.”
Suppose a brand decides to be transparent about its fragrance ingredients, great! However, that’s just the first step. From here, you’ll need to do a bit of detective work to see whether or not their fragrance is genuinely safe. When in doubt, stick to fragrance-free products. Below, I’ll list a few of the most toxic ingredients found in perfumes and why you should steer clear of them for health reasons.
A chemical found in many synthetic fragrances is phthalates, which first appeared in the 1930s and have since been used in various materials from PVC plastics to solvents.
If that isn’t already causing concern, a study from 2000 found abnormally high levels of phthalates in human subjects’ blood. Studies have since discovered that they can also negatively impact the reproductive system and trigger asthma and allergies. Today, you can find these irritating chemicals not just in your favorite fragrance but also nail polish, paint, air fresheners, candles, vinyl, children’s toys, and more.
According to the CDC, styrene is a chemical used to make many latex and synthetic rubber products. Some everyday products you’ll find styrene in include plastic packaging, disposable cups, insulation, and of course, fragrances!
The National Toxicology Program and the Nation Academy of Science declared that styrene is an anticipated human carcinogen. Studies show that those exposed to large quantities can suffer from eye irritations, breathing issues, and even damage to their nervous system.
If you’ve ever gotten a whiff of a bittersweet almond smell in your cosmetics or personal care products, you might be smelling an oily, colorless liquid called benzaldehyde. Although it may smell innocent, it’s a chemical in added fragrances you’ll want to stay away from.
Found in perfumes, shampoo, and bath products, benzaldehyde is toxic when breathed in or put on the skin. Not only can it irritate the nose and throat by causing shortness of breath and coughing, but it can also cause itchy skin rashes and inflammation of the eyes.
Banned by the FDA in 1989 for its severe toxic effects, methylene chloride is still found in products with labels listing “fragrance” as an ingredient. You can still find it in shampoos, perfumes and colognes, and more.
Today, it’s labeled one of the most common chemicals found in fragranced products, even though it can cause headaches, fatigue, eye and skin irritations, and damage to the central nervous system.
Who doesn’t love the sweet, floral scent of jasmine? You may be surprised to hear that the jasmine smell in some of your products isn’t jasmine; it’s an aliphatic flavor ester called benzyl acetate.
Benzyl acetate and linalool (another chemical to stay away from in fragrances!) are the main synthetic jasmine oils. You can find this in an abundance of products from perfume, shampoo, air fresheners, detergent, hairspray, and more.
The problem is that it’s a carcinogen linked to pancreatic cancer, as well as a substance that can irritate eyes and cause breathing issues and coughing. It’s also absorbed directly into the skin, which can cause severe systemic effects.
Another unsafe synthetic ingredient found in many modern fragrances is musk ketone. Musk is a popular scent that gives off a soft, warm, sweet smell when paired with other added fragrances. The problem? The musk you’re smelling isn’t actual musk.
Musk ketone, a synthetic musk, can be found in most fragrances since it is much cheaper to produce than the real thing. Some people can experience contact dermatitis from musk ketone, whereas others don’t experience any effects. However, this doesn’t mean it’s safe!
Substances like musk ketone accumulate in your body over some time and deposit into fat tissue. Over the past ten years, research shows that musk ketone has been present in breast milk, body fat, blood, and more. The point? You don’t want to be breathing this stuff in!
Now, you might be wondering where essential oils come into play in all of this. Aren’t they a safer, healthier fragrance option? The answer is yes–especially if they’re organic! However, some essential oils can irritate depending on the person.
A common reaction caused by essential oils is contact dermatitis, which can be seen in a skin rash. Some essential oils that can cause allergic contact dermatitis are:
I love essential oils–especially in my beauty products. However, I’ve unfortunately had some breakouts here and there from them. I’ve learned to always test an effect on my forearm before using it on other areas of my body. This has saved me from what could have been some potential severe breakouts.
Added fragrances can be a great thing to help us smell and feel better! However, some fragrances out there can do more harm than good.
Many companies that aren’t transparent about fragrances use toxic chemicals linked to health issues, especially those who struggle with allergies.
For the betterment of our health, I dondon’tink we should trust any brand that hides its scented ingredients under the general term “fr” France.” I” youyou’reestioning a product that includes fragrance, use a helpful resource like the ThinkDirty App or the EWG Skin Deep Database to get more insight into the proproduct’sxicity.
Even if you have found a safe synthetic or essential oil, I recommend testing it first on a patch of skin to ensure you dondon’tve an allergic reaction. So, in conclusion, all fragrances arearen’trmful, but some you may want to turn your nose up to!
]]>So, let’s look at how a scar develops. Then it will be easier to understand how we might minimize the appearance of a spot.
When your skin is damaged, your body goes through four main phases of wound healing:
Many scars fade with time. As described previously, however, it can take up to 2 years. You may not want to wait that long. While you may not eliminate a scar with an at-home treatment, some natural products can help minimize a scar’s appearance.
The best way to avoid an ugly scar is to promote good wound healing and prevent the development of a nasty scar. After a minor injury to the skin, The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following:
Any product that you put on your skin has the possibility of causing irritation or an allergic reaction. Before regular use of a product on your car, it is wise first to test it on a small patch of skin to see its effect on you.
]]>When the weather changes make the lips easily cracked and chapped, it is essential to moisturize them. The most important thing is to keep your lips moisturized. Water is a necessity for the human body to survive. Chapped lips may be a sign of dehydration and, therefore, lack of water. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will keep the skin healthy and youthful.
Second, use natural products to keep your lips moisturized. Lipsticks, lip glosses, volumizing lipsticks, and lipsticks are a few examples of natural lip care products.
Third, as we all know, lip scrub is an excellent way to remove dead skin on the lips. It’s as simple as mixing sugar, olive oil, and honey with a little warm water. Lip scrubs are very beneficial and can be done at least once a week.
Overnight masks and treatments can also significantly improve lips. They work all night to soften and refresh the skin.
Moisturizing Homemade Aloe Vera Lip Mask
Keeping lips soft and moisturized will involve one or more of the following natural ingredients:
raw material:
Aloe
cucumber
coconut oil
Green tea bag
instruct:
Aloe: Apply natural aloe vera gel on the lips. Let the gel sit overnight, and then take it out in the morning. Aloe vera removes dead skin cells and helps soften the skin.
Cucumber: Apply cucumber slices to the lips. Let cucumber juice moisturize lips. Leave the liquid for about 10 minutes, then wash it off. Cucumber contains incredible moisturizers.
Coconut oil: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the lips. Add a drop or two of tea tree oil as an optional ingredient. Wash off the oil or leave to process overnight.
Green tea bag: Put a green tea bag into a cup of hot water. Let the tea bag steep for about five minutes. Once it is cool enough, place the tea bag on your lips for a few minutes.
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