Category: Lifestyle

Clean skincare, green skincare, natural skincare – are they the same thing?

‘Clean’, ‘green’ and ‘natural’ are more than buzzwords when it comes to beauty products. These terms are not interchangeable. Due to misinformation and ‘greenwashing’, it is now more important than ever to educate ourselves and wise up to what exactly these terms entail, as well as what they have to offer.

‘Clean’ products are free of toxic ingredients, both natural and man-made. These include parabens, phthalates, talc, and formaldehyde – to name a few. Their focus will be to formulate products using ingredients which are proven to be safe. The shift towards ‘clean beauty’ are driven by a few factors. An obsession with wellness and detoxification, both in terms of diet and products, is fueling a demand for stripped-back, ‘clean’ ingredients. Consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about possible irritations caused by synthetic ingredients in fragrances and preservatives and are reading labels more carefully. The second factor is the rise in sensitive skin. Dermatologists are reporting a growing phenomenon of sensitised skin caused by increased exposure to pollution, stress and digital aggressors. Skin sensitivity has become the new buzz topic, ahead of anti-ageing, driving a shift towards caring for skin with natural and honest ingredients.

‘Green’ products are made sustainably and will not harm the earth through their manufacturing or recycling, ensuring its business practices are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible. The rise in green products comes as no surprise as we are all striving to reduce pollution and waste. Being environmentally responsible has never been higher on our agendas.

‘Natural’ products source their ingredients from nature; utilising botanical oils, extracts and butters, natural salts and everything in between. The classic definition of natural skin care is based on using botanically sourced ingredients currently existing in or formed by nature, without the use of synthetic chemicals, and manufactured in such a way to preserve the integrity of the ingredients. Truly natural brands will usually strive to be clean (not all natural ingredients are safe!).

Many brands will adopt two or more of the above principles, but it is imperative we understand the differences between the three so that we are able to make informed decisions.

5 Benefits of Using Mud Masks

Mud masks are an ‘in-thing’ in the skin care industry as it provides many benefits for most skin concerns. Most facial mud masks are not just simply ‘mud’ but includes various other premium ingredients which complement the main ingredient to give the best results for your skin.

Here are the 5 amazing benefits of using mud masks:-

1. Deep Cleansing

Our pores are prone to attracting and holding impurities from our surroundings. When mixed with oil and sebum, it will create a favourable condition for bacterial growth. Mud masks are great for deep cleansing our skin to remove these impurities. As it dries, it will absorb the impurities and oil that is buried deep within the pores.

2. Exfoliation

Mud masks can remove dead skin cells by tightening as they dry, allowing dead skin cells to stick to the mask. The dead skin cells are then washed away together with the removal of the mask revealing glowing, radiant and smooth skin.

3. Rich with Minerals and Nutrients

Mud masks are rich in minerals such as sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, sulphur and silicon which are beneficial for our skin since our bodies are unable to provide us with it. If we are lacking certain minerals and vitamins, it can lead to a multitude of skin conditions and complaints.

4. Clear Acne and Blemishes

Since mud masks are able to absorb excess oil and sebum, it will clear the pores from bacteria as well; the number one enemy for the formation of acne and blemishes. Regular application of mud masks will prevent clogged pores, thus helping in preventing breakouts.

5. Anti-ageing

Mud masks have a tightening effect as it dries on your skin, thus reducing fine lines and wrinkles, making them a good anti-ageing agent.