The mighty avocado is more than an ingredient that restaurants charge extra for. It is a tropical fruit that exhibits an impressive nutrition profile. It is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats that help to keep the body healthy and strong. That probably isn’t news to you if you aren’t a stranger to guacamole, chocolate avocado pudding, or avocado toast. 

What you may not realize is that avocados benefit the skin, whether you eat them or apply them topically. Because they contain a lot of antioxidants and vitamin E, avocados are great for people with sensitive skin. In this article, we’ll detail a few skin benefits of avocados and why they are common ingredients in skin care products.

Avocado Oil And Avocado Extract In Skin Care

Avocado oil and avocado extract are not the same. Both are derived from the avocado fruit, but the oil is pressed from dried avocado pulp, which contains the fruit’s skin and pit. Avocado extract tends to be derived from the fruit and leaves of the avocado tree. The fruit’s extract is a concentrated liquid that has been the focus of many recent studies for its therapeutic benefits in medical settings. 

Although both avocado oil and avocado extract have their place in skin care products, avocado oil is used more commonly. It is naturally rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, including oleic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E. Due to the oil’s high fat content, it is very useful in skin care products intended for dry or chapped skin. Continue reading to learn more about the skin benefits of avocado oil and extract.

Rich In Antioxidants

According to several studies, the avocado fruit, the oil, and the extract contain a lot of antioxidants, especially polyphenols and carotenoids. These antioxidant compounds work to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which commonly form after exposure to UV rays, pollution, and environmental aggressors. The accumulation of free radicals on the skin can damage the DNA of skin cells, which contributes to premature signs of aging. Neutralizing these free radicals can protect the skin and keep it healthy. 

Avocado oil is commonly used in facial cleansers and eye serums for this reason. When combined with other ingredients, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil, it can help remove dirt, oil, and other impurities without stripping the skin of its natural barrier. Avocado oil also provides long-lasting moisture, which is especially beneficial for people with dry skin. 

A Powerful Moisturizer

As we were just saying, avocado oil is an excellent ingredient that keeps the skin moisturized. The oil contains about 62% lipids, most of which are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Studies confirm that avocado oil can easily penetrate the skin’s moisture barrier more effectively than other plant oils. That makes avocado oil great for people with dry or flaky skin. You may see avocado oil or extract in moisturizers or hydrating masks for this reason. These creams and masks may help minimize water loss, creating more supple, hydrated skin. These tend to be great for all skin types, but always do a patch test on your arm to see if you develop a reaction. 

Offers Soothing Benefits

If you have sensitive skin, inflammation may be a daily occurrence, whether you are aware of it or not. Inflammation is one of the skin’s responses to irritants, including pollution, extreme temperatures, or harsh ingredients. Eczema, for example, is an inflammatory skin condition. Avocado oil may help soothe the appearance of irritated skin. It offers moisturizing properties that may help soften parched or callused skin. Apply a generous amount of avocado oil to dry feet or hands before bed, and then wear socks and gloves. That will prevent the oil from staining sheets while locking in moisture for softer skin in the morning.

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A new report suggests that nearly 50% of dementia cases could be prevented by addressing 14 preventable risk factors. Recently, high cholesterol and vision loss have been added to the list of modifiable risk factors for dementia. Taking care of your physical health and engaging in mentally stimulating activities during midlife can reduce your risk of dementia. Continue reading to learn more about the new report. 

This new report, which was written by 27 of the world’s leading dementia specialists, urges health officials to take action to reduce preventable risks of dementia. Some people will undoubtedly develop dementia, but addressing risk factors earlier in life may help them live a longer, healthier life. It may even help them delay development of the cognitive illness. It is never too early to take action, especially when these opportunities can make a big impact on your life. 

Preventing Physical Threats To Mental Acuity

According to the new report, there are 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia, which are:

• Obesity
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Exposure to air pollution
• Vision loss
• Depression
• Diabetes
• High LDL cholesterol levels
• Social isolation
• Physical inactivity
• Traumatic brain injury
• Lower education
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Hearing loss

Physical risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, and diabetes may increase the risk of narrowed or blocked arteries. By decreasing blood flow to the brain and brain cells, you increase the risk of cognitive decline. The brain and its cells require a sufficient supply of blood and oxygen to function optimally. Drinking an excessive amount of alcohol and smoking can also increase the risk of heart disease and cause brain cells to die because of the toxins. And finally, a traumatic brain injury can disrupt mental capabilities and how the brain functions. 

High Cholesterol And Vision Loss Contribute To Dementia Risk

The new guidelines added high cholesterol and vision loss in midlife (about age 40) to the list of preventable risk factors. According to researchers, 7% of dementia cases stem from high levels of LDL, or bad, cholesterol. That is because LDL cholesterol buildup can narrow the arteries and reduce blood supply to the brain. 

2020 was the last time this list was updated and available evidence indicated LDL cholesterol as a possible risk factor. At that point, evidence about it being a risk factor for dementia was inconclusive. Since then, however, compelling evidence indicates that LDL cholesterol increases the risk of developing cognitive decline. Additionally, vision loss was also a recent update. Hearing loss was already on the list, and it seems consistent that a decline in sensory functions can lead to confusion and problems processing information. In fact 2% of dementia cases were attributed to untreated vision loss later in life. 

How to Reduce Dementia Risks

People can take preventative steps to delay mental decline at any age. The longer you expose yourself to risk factors, the more harmful they are to overall cognition. Developing healthier habits during early life and midlife can form a strong base for behaviors later in life. Getting regular exercise and following a healthy diet can decrease your risk for some of the risk factors of dementia. Health experts have several suggestions that can help people keep the dangers of cognitive decline at bay, and they include:

• Making screenings and treatments for vision impairment accessible for all
• Treating depression effectively
• Providing all children with quality education and ensuring that they are cognitively active in midlife
• Prioritizing supportive community environments and housing to increase social contact
• Reducing the sugar and salt content in food sold in stores and restaurants
• Wearing helmets and head protection in contact sports and while riding bikes or skateboards
• Expanding measures to reduce smoking and increasing the minimum age of purchase
• Detecting and treating high LDL cholesterol in midlife
• Making hearing aids available for those with hearing loss
• Reducing exposure to air pollution via stricter clean air policies

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Nothing in this world can survive without a solid foundation. That is especially true for your hair. If your scalp is not healthy, your hair is likely to be brittle, limp, or overall unhealthy. That’s where cleansing and moisturizing the scalp comes into play. When your hair roots and follicles are healthy, you can experience better growth and shinier hair. 

In case you have not seen all of the TikTok videos and Instagram reels, head spas have been increasing in popularity. The videos showcase a close up camera on the scalp to see what issues need to be addressed. What follows is a series of deep cleansing scrubs, oiling the hair, a halo rinsing apparatus, a scalp massage, and then another close up camera on the scalp to see the difference after the treatment. They are highly popular in China, Japan, and Korea, and are now more present in the United States. 

Head spas are hair care treatments that aim to revitalize the hair and scalp. It may sound like a luxurious treatment reserved for special occasions, but incorporating head spa treatments into your hair care routine may have a significant impact on the health of your hair. Continue reading to learn about five benefits of head spas. You may just want to try one out to see and feel the difference. 

Boosts Blood Circulation

Why is boosting circulation to the scalp beneficial for your hair? By improving blood flow, you help to deliver more nutrients and oxygen to the hair roots, which is necessary for growth and strength. That stimulation also promotes healthier hair growth, which contributes to thicker, more vibrant hair. Head spa treatments work to boost circulation to the scalp via the scalp massage, head steaming, and intense water pressure. 

Balances Oil Production

An oily scalp is just as problematic as a dry scalp. Everyone wants their scalp to be just right, but we aren’t all Goldilocks. By receiving regular head spa treatments, you can help balance the scalp’s natural oil production. When you regulate this, you can help reduce the likelihood of an overly oily or excessively dry scalp, both of which are harmful to hair health. When your scalp’s oil production is balanced, you support healthy hair growth and maintain the hair’s natural luster. 

Repairs Damage

If you want to increase the thickness of your hair, a head spa should be an essential component of your hair care routine. Extensive treatments work to gently remove dirt, grime, and impurities (usually general scalp buildup) from the scalp. By unclogging pores and cleaning the scalp, your hair has a better chance to grow more efficiently. A head spa works great for an oily scalp and can help supply moisture to a dry scalp, which helps reduce itchiness and dandruff.

Helps Relieve Stress

The hair and scalp are constantly under stress because of sun damage, pollution, dirt, and product buildup. A head spa is a multistep, therapeutic hair treatment and it consists of washing the hair thoroughly. It also involves an intense scalp and hair massage, which may cause you to feel tingly all over your body. If you’ve ever had a scalp massage, you know this feeling well. How amazing does it feel when someone washes your hair at a hair salon? Now, imagine that feeling amplified by 10 during a head spa treatment. This is incredibly relaxing and can help relieve stress and promote a feeling of rejuvenation. Studies have found that intensive care treatment spas increase focus, improve productivity, and reduce stress. 

Deep Cleansing Beyond The Surface

You can shampoo and condition your hair to clean it and make it smell nice, but that doesn’t compare to the cleansing that occurs at a head spa. Think of these treatments like a deep clean for your head. You don’t regularly clean under the couch in your home, right? Well these head spa treatments do! They aid with the removal of excess dirt, oil, and product buildup that regular washing can miss. A head spa treatment is like a detox plan for your scalp that may prevent scalp issues that hinder hair growth.

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It’s no secret that neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are on the rise. Various factors contribute to the diagnosis of such conditions, but certain lifestyle considerations increase a person’s risk of memory loss or accelerated brain aging. Researchers  from the University of Oxford identified three lifestyle factors that increase the rate of aging and cognitive decline. This article will explain what they found. 

About The Study

Nature Communications published the recent study, during which researchers looked at the brain scans of about 40,000 people over the age of 45. These participants belonged to the UK Biobank database. The primary area of interest was how genetic and lifestyle factors impact areas of the brain that are vulnerable to the effects of aging and Alzheimer’s disease. 

• Genetic factors: usually classified as non-modifiable, but lifestyle habits may influence whether or not certain genes turn on. 
• Lifestyle: considered a modifiable risk factor because you have the power to change your habits and choices. That can ultimately increase or decrease the likelihood of developing a certain disease or illness. 

3 Risk Factors That Age The Brain Faster

Study authors noted three things that drove earlier degeneration of certain brain regions. These factors were: traffic-related air pollution, type 2 diabetes, and the frequency of alcohol intake. Interestingly enough, both traffic-related air pollution and alcohol intake have been linked to an increased risk of diabetes. 

• Air Pollution: You do not have full control of the amount of the air pollution you are exposed to on a daily basis. As a society, however, we can work to reduce the amount of pollution we produce. According to emerging data, exposure to pollution over time increases the risk of dementia.
• Diabetes: Previous studies have linked type 2 diabetes to an increased risk of dementia by as much as 60%.
• Alcohol frequency: Drinking alcohol, especially too much alcohol, can damage the brain. A 2023 study included over three million people in Korea and found that sustained heavy drinking increased the risk of dementia by 8%. Researchers noted that limiting alcohol consumption reduced the risk by 8%.

What differentiated this study from previous studies was the why factor. These factors are so dangerous to brain health because they target the brain’s weak spots. 

How Do Genetics Influence Cognitive Decline?

There have been some findings about the relationship between genetics and the way the brain ages. Most of this information is useful in research settings, and not in individuals. Certain genes, for example, code for immune and inflammatory recommendations to protect the most vulnerable parts of the brain that influence poor brain aging. Those genetic factors are also connected to some modifiable factors, so lifestyle improvements may help you overcome genetic predispositions to early brain aging. Such modifiable categories include blood pressure, body weight, smoking, depressive mood, inflammation, sleep, social patterns, physical activity, and education status. 

How To Protect The Brain And Prevent Dementia

Based on the findings in this study, the researchers encourage the following actionable recommendations to protect the most vulnerable parts of the brain:

• Invest in an air purifier: Although you cannot control the pollution outside the home, you can help keep the air inside the home as clean as possible. One of the best ways to do that is to invest in an air purifier. Just make sure that you get one with a HEPA filter because they are the best at removing particles from the air. 
• Increase your fiber intake: Researchers note that people who eat high-fiber diets are less likely to have type 2 diabetes. Fiber is a non-digestible carbohydrate that works to stabilize blood sugar and promote healthy digestion. Only 5% of American adults consume the recommended daily amount (RDA) of fiber. Women should consume between 21-28 grams per day, while men should consume 30-38 grams per day. Get more fiber by focusing on fibrous foods, such as lentils, avocados, beans, chia seeds, and other fruits and vegetables. 
• Limit your alcohol intake: Alcohol is a known toxin, especially in regards to cognitive health. You don’t have to completely avoid alcohol, but mindful consumption is best. Reserve a drink or two for special occasions and spend less time indulging just because.

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The environment affects your skin, whether you are indoors or outside. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, blue light, pollution, and more are environmental factors that cause oxidative damage to the skin. This process breaks down collagen and may even damage the skin barrier, which compromises the skin. A damaged barrier makes you more prone to dry skin, cracking, and damaging effects of environmental factors. 

UV Rays Are the Biggest Threat To The Skin

UV rays from the sun are the most significant environmental factor that can damage the skin. Not only do they increase signs of aging, but they also increase the risk of skin cancer. UV rays trigger the production of free radicals, which can surpass neutralizing antioxidants according to research. These free radicals can break down collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles and other signs of aging. UV rays also stimulate melanin production, which can cause skin discolorations. Over time, too much exposure to UV rays without proper protection can dramatically increase the risk of numerous forms of skin cancer, especially melanoma. 

Air Pollution Plays A Role

Not only can air pollution affect your breathing, but it can also cause free radical damage on the skin, just like UV rays. Exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and hydrocarbons can cause skin inflammation and oxidative stress. According to research, skin inflammation can impair collagen synthesis, which causes the skin to sag and wrinkle over time. The last thing you want is for pollution to chew up your collagen and elastin! 

If you want to take action to protect your skin from environmental damage, consider the following tips. They may come in handy more than you know!

Pick A Functional Powder For Sun Protection

If you are on-the-go, consider getting your hands on a functional powder. These types of powders have built-in SPF and are great options because you can dust them over existing lotions or makeup. They are great if you work in an office and need a little midday touch-up. 

Try A Mineral Sunscreen

If you spend time in the sun, dermatologists agree that you must wear sunscreen in order to protect your skin. Ideally, you want to use sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, both of which physically block UV rays. Chemical sunscreen may be invisible after applying on the skin, but they allow some absorption of light. That’s why skin care experts recommend mineral-based sunscreens to effectively protect the skin. They may leave a whitish appearance on the skin, but better to be protected than not! 

Consider Supplementing With Vitamins C & E

UV rays, air pollution, and blue light can all cause oxidative stress on the skin, a process that breaks down collagen and elastin. The best way to neutralize free radicals is by maintaining a steady intake or application of antioxidants. Vitamin C tends to work more efficiently with vitamin E, according to research studies. That’s why they are often together in different formulations. Vitamin C and E serums can help prep your skin in the morning, providing a natural defense that it needs to face the day. 

Opt For More Antioxidants

Not only do antioxidant serums have their place in the morning, but they also have their place at night. Opting for ingredients like glutathione and resveratrol can help repair damage that was done during the day. Resveratrol, which exists in grapes, peanuts, soy, and other foods, can sop up free radicals. Glutathione is another antioxidant that works to address dark spots, according to one study. There are many antioxidant creams or ointments that work to fight sun-damaging effects, but don’t neglect the consumption of antioxidants from colorful plant-based foods. Those do great things for your skin and other bodily systems and organs. 

Wash Up Carefully Before Bed

After being out and about all day, you need to wash off all that grime that the skin accumulates. Before you go to bed, use a gentle cleanser that works to both clean out pores and keep the skin barrier intact. If you use a cleanser that is too rough, then you increase the risk of skin irritation. 

Always Protect At Night

In addition to cleansing after a long day, you may want to apply other skin-nourishing ingredients before you hit the hay. Moisturizers or serums that contain antioxidants can help clear up environmental damage and support collagen production throughout the night.

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You don’t have to be braving the frigid, dry cold of winter to experience dry skin. Some people have naturally dry skin and regularly lather themselves with moisturizers or creams. Hand, body, and face lotions don’t always seem to provide long-term relief for dry skin, though. For that reason, we always recommend using all-natural ingredients that the skin can easily absorb. 

The ingredients in the moisturizer in this article provide long-lasting moisture and are quite gentle on the skin. You only need four ingredients to make this moisturizer: olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax pellets, and vitamin E oil. Add these ingredients to the top of a double boiler or to a heat-safe glass jar in a hot water bath in a saucepan on the stove. Once completely melted, pour the mixture into the vessel of your choice and allow it to cool. It will turn into a gel-like consistency. Continue reading to learn more about the moisturizing ingredients. 

Olive Oil

Olive oil makes for a great addition to both your diet and your skin care routine. It is an emollient that contains monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants that make it an excellent moisturizer. The skin’s integrity is highly dependent on the lipid barrier, which holds individual cells together. Weather and other factors can evaporate the lipid barrier and lead to unpleasant, dry skin. Fortunately, olive oil acts as a secondary skin barrier that helps to keep your skin moist and hydrated. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil works as a great moisturizer, but is it right for your skin? If you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, coconut oil may not be the best ingredient for your skin, especially your face. It does work to seal moisture into the skin, trapping water to keep the skin as moist as possible. Dermatologists recommend using coconut oil on damp skin, for optimal moisture sealing. Additionally, one study confirmed that coconut oil was a sufficient moisture-repairing ingredient. Coconut oil may also boost elasticity more than your average body lotion. 

Beeswax

Beeswax works to form a protective layer on the skin that acts as a barrier against pollution and other environmental toxins. By forming this protective layer, beeswax also works to lock in moisture and can prevent the skin from becoming dry or irritated. If you regularly scratch your skin because of dryness, beeswax may also provide some relief, especially since it works to keep out irritants and allergens. Beeswax also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help fight grime or bacteria that exist on the skin or in pores. 

Vitamin E Oil

Just like the other ingredients in this article, vitamin E oil encourages a healthy lipid barrier, which helps to keep the skin’s protective barrier intact. Vitamin E oil essentially fills in the little cracks in the skin, sealing in moisture so that it doesn’t dry out. Several studies confirmed that vitamin E allows for long-lasting moisture between skin cells. In fact, vitamin E oil can keep the skin hydrated for up to 16 hours!

DIY Olive Oil Moisturizer

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a heat-safe glass jar (a canning jar or measuring cup will work). Pour a couple inches of water into a small saucepan over medium-low heat and then place the jar of ingredients into the saucepan.
• As the water heats up, the contents in the glass vessel will begin to melt. You can stir the ingredients with a wooden utensil as the melt to combine them. 
• Once completely melted, remove from heat and pour the melted mixture into a small tin or jar for storage. 
• Allow it to cool for about an hour and it should reach a gel-like consistency. Use as needed.

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Now more than ever, over-sanitation is too common in the household. We house an assortment of cleaning products beneath the sink, in either the kitchen or bathroom. People bleach the counters or high-touch surfaces, and they wipe the floors until they are shiny and spotless. The important thing to remember is that people do these things to keep themselves safe. As it turns out, they may do more harm than good for the body.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), upwards of 2,000 cleaning supplies on the American market contain chemicals that can lead to serious health problems. Fumes from some products lead to respiratory distress, while carcinogenic compounds in others increase cancer risk. Parents who over-sanitize the house can cause their children to grow up to develop serious respiratory problems like asthma. One study even found that inhaling chemicals from cleaning products has a similar damaging effect that cigarettes have on the lungs. Pregnant women who clean with chemical products may even increase the risk of birth defects. 

Are People Not Informed About These Risks?

Despite all of this information, cleaning products still make it onto U.S. shelves. Manufactures are not required to list all the ingredients in these cleaning products. Additionally, don’t assume that “green” cleaning products are 100% safe for you. They can still contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fragrances, and other irritants. That’s why it’s always best to do your research on the safest cleaning products for your health. The Environmental Protection Agency has a list of cleaning products that are safer and healthier for cleaning needs. 

Home Cleaning Products Study

The University of Bergen in Norway conducted a 20-year study on home cleaning products. The study monitored 6,230 participants between the ages of 20 and 44. Each participant had up to three lung tests during the duration of the study. The study divided the participants into three categories: people who cleaned at least once a week, people who didn’t clean, and people who cleaned as a profession. The results indicated that women who cleaned once a week experienced reduced lung function. They also experienced an increase in asthma. Women who cleaned as a profession saw a decline in lung function that mimicked the effects of smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day. Men in the study had similar effects. 

While the takeaway from that study seems like cleaning products only affect lung function, this is not the case. They contain chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system, which contains the glands that regulate hormones. Disrupting this system can lead to hormonal imbalance that can affect the body’s natural messaging system. Additionally, the chemicals can block hormone function, or mimic hormone function. Either way, they disrupt hormones and cause distress, confusion, or even nutritional deficiencies in the body. Some other problems that household cleaners cause include:

• Birth defects
• Hypothyroidism
• Infertility
• Skin disorders
• Allergies
• Respiratory issues
• Diabetes
• Inflammation
• Nerve damage
• Increased cancer risk
• Eye irritation

Can You Avoid These Problems?

Chemical cleaning products are convenient. People know them because they regularly see them in the stores and in commercials. The best thing you can do to keep yourself protected is to read the labels and reports on the products before purchasing them. Opt for products that do not contain fragrances, flammable ingredients, irritants, or VOCs. Additionally, don’t buy air fresheners. 

A safe cleaning alternative to major household cleaning products is soap and warm water. This is great for cleaning the home. Lastly, baking soda is excellent for scrubbing away grime. You can also use distilled white vinegar and water to clean glass surfaces. When you clean, be it with natural or chemical cleaning products, make sure to keep the home well ventilated. Open the windows so that fresh air can come in and the chemicals can go out.

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We are under attack…from countless pollutants and free radicals in the environment. The outdoor air we breathe may not be trying to kill us or intentionally harm our skin, but it definitely can contribute to early signs of aging. With pollution levels increasing as the years go by, researchers estimate that our skin is in trouble. Not only does harmful air endanger the body and skin from the inside, but also from the outside.

If you live in a city, there’s no way to escape smog and soot from car emissions or pollutants in smoke from factories. These hazardous pollutants continue to thin the ozone layer, which allows harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays to penetrate the atmosphere. It’s important to note that beneficial ozone exists in the stratosphere, while ground-level ozone can increase the risk of respiratory problems. This threatens both the planet and your skin. One study linked air pollution to an increased presence of brown spots on the skin in test subjects in China and Germany. 

How Does Air Pollution Affect Your Skin?

The outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis, contains fats that bind skin cells together. According to scientific studies, ozone oxidizes these lipids (fats) and breaks down your skin’s barrier. This can lead to inflammatory responses and DNA-damaging situations. In addition to ozone, thousands of micro-particles enter the body through the mouth, nose, and pores in your skin. These particles can form free radicals and break down collagen, which is a necessary building block for healthy skin. As this happens, you can experience wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and overall dryness. How can you keep your skin healthy and fight all of this pollution? Continue reading to find out. 

Daily Scrubs

Environmental toxins can reside in pores and and slowly build up on the skin. This is why you have to scrub daily, even if you only do it for ten seconds. It’s best to cleanse in the morning and at night, especially the face, but make sure that the cleanser is not too rough. You can use a homemade sugar scrub (click here for recipes) on your face and you can use a loofah in the shower on the rest of the body. Give your facial skin the most love, though.

Moisturize

The skin requires moisture for optimal health, but environmental toxins tend to dry it out. Applying moisturizers on the skin helps to create a protective barrier that works to regulate oil production and lock in moisture. When you are able to hydrate the skin, it is less prone to dryness and inflammation. Click here for a wonderful DIY moisturizer that helps to combat dryness. 

Use Antioxidants To Your Advantage

Certain moisturizes can help nourish and protect the skin, but one of the best ways to fight pollutants and free radicals is with antioxidants. Some skin care products contain potent antioxidants, but it’s also beneficial to include them in your diet. Nourishing the skin internally is just as important as external love. You have to keep the molecules that make up the skin as healthy as possible because pollutants can break down collagen fibers. Try to focus on three key antioxidants: vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Some products have these, but you can also get them by eating sunflower seeds, almonds, beets, beet greens, carrots, guavas, citrus fruits, pumpkins, bell peppers, leafy greens (spinach, collards, beet greens, kale, and arugula), cantaloupe, butternut squash, kiwis, sweet potatoes, and more. 

Apply Sunscreen

It’s easy for harmful UVB and UVA rays to damage the skin, causing dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles prematurely. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen, but please choose your sunscreen wisely. Many varieties have harmful chemicals that negatively affect the skin. Reef-safe sunscreens are the best because they contains ingredients that are environmentally friendly. They also don’t clog your pores like regular sunscreens do. Keep in mind that you want an SPF of at least 30-50 for optimal protection, with a 50 SPF for your face. 

Use Facial Steams

Facial steams are beneficial for emptying your pores of toxins that build up after exposure to environmental pollutants and chemical skin care products. The steam opens up the pores for optimal cleaning, and then you have to wash your face with cold water to close them up. To do a simple facial steam, boil some water and then pour it in a heat-safe bowl. Feel free to add some drops of essential oils or fresh/dried herbs to the water for added benefits. Hold your head about six inches above the water and tent your head and shoulders over the bowl by draping a towel over your head. Remain here for about five minutes before washing your face with a gentle cleanser. Be sure to moisturize after you cleanse and dry your face. 

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The air freshener market is an enormous beast that seduces you with its enchanting aromas. From candles and plug-in devices to sprays and gels, air fresheners plague you everywhere you go. Businesses have sprays in restrooms, friends have freshening candles in their living rooms, and you may even have plug-ins in your house. Some scents are attractive and others aren’t, but no matter what the scent of the air freshener is, it pollutes your indoor air.

Air Fresheners At A Glance

They seem nice to the untrained nose, but we’re about to drop some knowledge on you. Air fresheners are one of the primary sources of indoor air pollution because they emit or cause the formation of substances that have been linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, and endocrine disruption. It’s unfortunate because companies can label their air fresheners with “all-natural” or “green” words to attract customers, despite the fact that they are far from natural. Fragrances are trademarked blends, and companies are not required to put the ingredients in those blends on ingredient labels. 

What Is Indoor Air Pollution?

Yes, the air in your home is not as safe as you thought. It may not be as poor as the air outside, which is replete with environmental pollutants and airborne toxins. While the air in your home may not be as healthy as you think it is, you have complete control over how fresh your indoor air is. Air fresheners, cooking oils, cleaning products, and building materials dictate the quality of indoor air. If you use air fresheners, a quick and easy way to improve indoor air quality is by throwing them out. Get them out of your house!

When you don’t have the constant presence of fragrances in your house, you may notice that you experience better respiratory function. The fragrances from air freshener gels, sprays, or plug-ins contain contain the following harmful pollutants:

• Parabens: which can increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Toluene: which scientists have linked to reproductive and developmental toxicity.
• 1,4-Diclorobenzene (1,4 DB): a volatile organic compound that can negatively affect lung function, especially in people with asthma or respiratory illnesses.
• Xylene: linked to symptoms such as headaches, depression, dizziness, short-term memory impairment, and central nervous system depression.
• d-Limonene: is a sensitizer, which can increase the odds of future allergic reactions. It may also irritate the eyes and skin.
• Phthalates: linked to damaging the female reproductive system and increasing the risk of birth defects. It may also contribute to endocrine disruption.
• Benzene: a harmful carcinogen that is toxic to reproductive and developmental health.

Making Your Own Air Freshener

You don’t need to subject your respiratory system to harmful fragrances that contain volatile compounds because it’s easy to make your own air freshener. It sounds difficult, but it’s so much easier than you think. All you need is some baking soda, the essential oil of your choice, a glass jar, and a cupcake liner. Perfectly naturally and wonderfully aromatic. Your house will smell as fragrant as ever without harming your air quality. 

DIY Air Freshener

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil (or whatever essential oil you prefer)
• 4 ounce mason jar
• Cupcake liner
• Skewer

Instructions:

• Add the baking soda to the mason jar and mix in the essential oil. Give it a quick mix.
• Place a cupcake liner over the jar and place a rubber band around the jar. 
• Screw the lid down over the cupcake liner and use a skewer to poke a few holes in the cupcake liner. 
• You’re all set and ready to smell delicious!

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Millions of people in parts of California and the Pacific Northwest are living through historic wildfires. Hundreds of thousands of acres have burned in California, Oregon, and Washington, and many people lost their homes. For people in those areas, breathing has not been easy either. In fact, going outside and inhaling outdoor air still presents a health hazard because wildfire smoke poses a serious threat to respiratory health. 

This is going to sound a little crazy, but ride this out with us: the coronavirus taught us something. Sit tight, we aren’t done yet. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, people started to pay more attention to the air they breathe. When people went outside in the beginning of the Creek Fire, Bobcat Fire, El Dorado Fire, or the Beachie Creek Fire, for instance, they reported difficulty breathing.

What’s In Wildfire Smoke?

Wildfires generate plumes of smoke that can travel many miles. The contents in wildfire smoke depend on the temperature of the fire (flaming or smoldering) and what’s burning (grass, trees, or brush). There are also particles and gases that fuel the fire, including carbon monoxide, ozone, particulate matter (linked to respiratory illnesses), nitrogen dioxide, polycyclic aromatic compounds, hydrocarbons, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Particulate matter is often the most prevalent, and it poses a threat because it is 50 times smaller than a grain of sand (less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter). This is why air quality warnings use PM2.5 as a metric. 

The human body can’t defend against particles smaller than PM2.5. Have you been around a campfire and blown your nose after? Did you notice that your mucus was brown or blackish? That’s because particulate matter passed your body’s defenses and actually disturbed your air sacks, where oxygen crosses over into your blood. While there are immune cells in these air sacks that seek out foreign invaders and destroy them, they can’t break down particulate matter. This means that they constantly work to destroy them, resulting in more inflammation. Too much inflammation in the respiratory system is dangerous, especially for people with asthma or COPD. 

Symptoms Of Breathing In Wildfire Smoke

• Wheezing
• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Throat irritation
• Eye irritation 
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Runny nose

COVID-19 shares a couple of those symptoms, so it can be confusing and scary with the current pandemic. The last thing you want to do during the pandemic is compromise the respiratory system or immune system. Whether or not there is a connection between smoke exposure and an increased risk of viral infection remains to be seen, but you should take extra measures to protect your respiratory health. 

What Can You Do To Stay Healthy And Safe?

When wildfires are ablaze, the best thing you can do is stay indoors as much as possible. Don’t do strenuous activity outside, even if you have the itch to exercise. We know that people have been instructed to stay indoors since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is necessary with all the particulate matter in the air. General recommendations to stay safe are below:

Roll up car windows

Don’t leave your windows down if you’re driving around in a smoky area. Additionally, keep your vents closed and operate your air conditioning on the recirculation setting. 

Don’t burn candles

It’s tempting to burn a candle in your home, especially if it has a beautiful aroma. Keep in mind that a burning candle is a source of indoor air pollution.

Mask up

If you have to go outside, don’t rely on a simple bandana or thin facial covering to keep you safe. Particulate matter can pass through this breathable fabrics. N95 respirator masks or more expensive dust masks can help filter out damaging particles. 

Pay attention to air quality ratings

If wildfires are not far from where you live, monitor the air quality rating in your area daily. Cities with over 350,000 residents have to report levels daily, and the air quality is monitored by satellites and ground instruments. 

Take precautions for children

Children’s lungs are still developing and they actually breathe in more air than adults do. For this reason, they are more susceptible to pollution from smoke. Reign them in as best you can to keep them playing inside when it’s smoky outside.

Protect the air in your home

Do what you can to keep your windows and doors closed as much as possible. If you have air conditioning, see if there is a recirculation setting to prevent your air conditioning from pulling air into the home. Most central air conditioning systems have HEPA filters for added protection. You can also place damp towels at the base of door frames or other places where air can sneak in the home.

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