If you are looking to support the health of your skin, joints, and hair, you will need collagen. Many people purchase collagen powders or supplements and add them to their teas, coffees, smoothies, and more. Although collagen products are incredibly popular, most people are unaware of what collagen does and how they can preserve it. 

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in animals. A structural protein makes up the structure or framework of both cells and tissues. There are 28 types of collagen, but type 1 collagen accounts for nearly 90% of all collagen in the human body. Collagen is mostly composed of the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids form strands that make up the triple-helix structure characteristic of collagen.

The body naturally produces collagen, but collagen production starts to decline some time during your twenties at a rate of about 1% per year. UV exposure, inflammatory diets, lack of sleep, harsh products, and stress can exacerbate this decline. For this reason, many dermatologists encourage a skin care routine that helps preserve collagen. Use vitamin C serum, experiment with retinol if the skin can tolerate it, and wear sunscreen if you go outside. 

Although there are things you can do to help protect collagen, one of the best ways to care for it is through a healthy diet. The food you eat can influence collagen production. Certain foods, especially those with antioxidants, can help protect the skin from free radicals and support the skin barrier. Continue reading to learn about five antioxidants that help keep the skin firm.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid phytonutrient and powerful antioxidant that has demonstrated an ability to protect skin cells. Other studies confirm that astaxanthin can help preserve the collagen layer because it has impressive photo protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers note that astaxanthin’s free radical fighting powers are five times more powerful than beta-carotene. It’s about 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C! Although vitamin C, which we will get to next, is a powerful antioxidant, it should not be the only one you rely on to encourage collagen production.

Vitamin C

You cannot talk about the skin without having vitamin C in the conversation. Vitamin C is a cofactor in the collagen production process. The skin’s fibroblasts rely on vitamin C to synthesize collagen. According to many studies, fibroblasts cannot effectively make collagen when vitamin C levels are low. Vitamin C works to stabilize the collagen molecule and preserve existing collagen by neutralizing free radicals. For this reason, researchers believe that ingesting vitamin C is the best way to support overall skin health. 

Blood Orange Extract

Blood orange is not in season all year, but it’s very popular during the winter months. What is even more popular, especially in the world of skin care, is blood orange extract. It contains numerous antioxidants, including anthocyanins and flavanones, vitamin C, and hydroxycinnamic acids, which are non-flavonoid phenols. That means that you get all of the benefits of those compounds in one extract. Due to the antioxidant power of blood orange extract, it helps reduce oxidative stress, which causes collagen breakdown. A 100-milligram dose of blood orange extract is effective at reducing proinflammatory levels of cytokine TNF-a in the body. Additionally, one study found that it was able to improve skin elasticity by 5.9% in just 14 days, and 13.9% in 56 days. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an oil-soluble antioxidant that helps support vitamin C inside the body. Vitamins C and E have a synergistic relationship, with one study confirming that vitamin E increased vitamin C’s efficacy eightfold. On top of that, vitamin C regenerates vitamin E after vitamin E scavenges for free radicals in the body. Finally, vitamin E can help protect against collagen cross-linking, a process during which collagen becomes hard and stiff. That process can cause the skin to appear hard and stiff, and it contributes to accelerated aging. 

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are plant compounds that are types of antioxidants commonly found in fruits and vegetables. According to research, polyphenols can help boost digestion, improve brain function, and protect against several chronic diseases. Additionally, polyphenols have proven effective at helping the skin manage UV exposure. That is particularly important because UV damage is one of the leading causes of collagen breakdown. Although sunscreen is the most effective way to protect the skin, eating more foods rich in polyphenols will help that process.

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Some people like the heat and others despise it. For the majority of the United States, this summer of 2024 has been unpleasantly hot. Many states have experienced intense heat waves and blistering temperatures. Since these temperatures aren’t going away in the immediate future, there are things experts want you to avoid doing in the heat. 

When the weather is extremely hot, you can forget about outdoor events or activities. If you want to do your daily run, consider doing it in the wee hours of night. Depending on where you live, it could still be too hot at that time! Hot weather can be deadly, especially for older adults because they are more prone to dehydration at a quicker rate. That said, anyone can experience a vast range of heat-related conditions, including heat cramps, dehydration, fatigue, heat exhaustion, and fainting. 

Heatstroke is the most significant and severe heat-related illness. You can see mental status changes and then experience a cardiovascular collapse or instability. Your vitals can change, including your heart rate and blood pressure. Health experts note that you should contact medical professionals if you experience heat cramps, dizziness, or heavy sweating that last more than an hour. To help prevent these things from happening, avoid engaging in the following things when it’s hot outside. 

Don’t Use Alcohol To Quench Your Thirst

On a sunny day, cracking open a cold one or sipping on a frozen cocktail cool off seems like a great idea. Health experts state that you should be careful about alcohol consumption when it’s hot outside. Moderation is the key, especially if you are someone who enjoys drinking. Sure, a cold beverage is refreshing, but alcohol dehydrates the body faster and doesn’t provide hydration. The ice doesn’t count! Ideally, avoid drinking to reduce your risk of dehydration in hotter weather. 

Don’t Stay In The Sun Without Taking Breaks For Shade

If you have to be outside, be it for a work or outdoor celebration, do your best to take breaks in the shade. Taking time away from direct sunlight is essential for preventing heat-related illness. Get out of the sun and into the shade, indoors, or somewhere with air conditioning whenever possible to refresh the body. Don’t forget to hydrate while indoors!

Don’t Skimp On Sunscreen

Whether you are going to be in the sun for 20 minutes or seven hours, you should always apply sunscreen. Sunscreen can help protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause sunburn. Broad spectrum sunscreens that are at least 30 SPF can help protect you from both UVA and UVB rays, according to dermatologists. If possible, do your best to purchase reef-safe and mineral-based sunscreens, as they have the fewest amount of chemicals. 

Don’t Let Yourself Get Thirsty

Once you feel like you cannot go on without drinking some water, you are dehydrated. If you are thirsty, you are in a mild state of dehydration. Hydrate often so that you don’t allow yourself to get thirsty. When you spend a long time in the sun, always have a water-based beverage at the ready. You can enhance your hydration efforts with an electrolyte-rich beverage. When you sweat, you lose sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium. Replenish those nutrients by drinking coconut water or mixing an electrolyte powder into your water. 

Don’t Rely On Temperature Alone

When temperatures are extreme, don’t just look at the temperature and plan around that. You should be aware of the full weather forecast, monitoring the heat and UV indexes. Both of those are measures of ultraviolet radiation, temperature, and humidity. The temperature doesn’t always tell the full story! Some apps can inform you of the “real feel” or “feels like” temperature, which is based on humidity, wind, sun, etc.

Don’t Stay Outside At The Hottest Time Of Day

Finally, when the temperatures are hotter than ever, there is no need to be outside during the hottest part of the day. Temperatures usually peak from noon to about three or four in the afternoon. Try to save yard work or other outdoor activities and tasks for a cooler part of the day. Just be considerate of your neighbors and don’t start revving that leaf blower before six in the morning.

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Everyone has their day in the sun during summer. Some people are less fortunate than others and go home looking like freshly boiled lobsters. You’ve seen that bright red skin that stands out from 100 feet away. Although sun exposure is beneficial, sunburn is not. When the skin is burnt to a bright red, you need immediate relief. The soothing sunburn ice cubes in this article can help promote faster healing and provide relief. 

As a quick note, it’s important for everyone to lather up with a skin-safe sunscreen when going out in the sun. If you plan to stay in the sun for long periods of time, make sure to seek shade when possible, hydrate all day long, and reapply sunscreen every couple hours. That may not seem like the most fun thing to remember, but it can help keep your skin safe. For when you let yourself cook a little longer in the direct sunlight and get burnt, you will need to soothe the skin immediately.

Sunburn Soothing Ice Cubes

There are many cooling sprays, after sun gels, lotions, and other natural remedies that can help soothe sunburns. They only last for so long in the fridge before they go bad, though. They are easy to make, but you still have to spend the time to prepare them. Why not have something that won’t go bad and is always cooling and soothing? 

Aloe vera is a great plant to have at your house. It is a low-maintenance succulent and the gel inside the plant has soothing properties that can help accelerate the recovery of sunburns. Researchers note that aloe vera contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed skin. 

Regarding the soothing ice cubes, many experts do not recommend placing ice on sunburns. The reason for this is because the cold acts as a vasoconstrictor, which reduces blood flow to the area and slows healing time. If you add vasodilating herbs to the ice cubes, though, they can help increase blood flow and solve that issue. Plus, you get the cooling relief from the frozen cubes. 

Comfrey

This plant stimulates tissue repair and works to help the body form healthy skin cells. It is also beneficial for sore joints and damaged skin. Studies have shown that comfrey can help soothe and heal damaged skin. And just like marshmallow root, which is also in these soothing sunburn cubes, comfrey is a demulcent that helps provide a protective barrier over tissues. 

Lavender

Lavender is an all-around soothing herb that is especially gentle on the skin. It lends itself to a variety of DIY skin care products, so a lot of DIY enthusiasts keep lavender essential oil on hand. Lavender may help disinfect wounds and cuts and acts as an analgesic to soothe pain. It is frequently applied to burns to help soothe the skin and promote faster healing. Lavender also helps to increase circulation to the skin, which accelerates recovery time. 

Calendula

Calendula is very similar to lavender, in that it is a great all-around herb. It is very gentle and great for all skin types. Many studies confirm that it can help soothe inflammation and reduce the severity of cuts, burns, sunburns, rashes, and cuts. Calendula may also help move lymphatic fluid and improve blood circulation.

Marshmallow

Slippery marshmallow works to coat and cool irritated skin, while simultaneously adding moisture. The roots, flowers, and leaves of marshmallow root all exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. You can use leaves and flowers for the cubes (below) or you can use the roots.

Peppermint

Peppermint has a natural cooling effect, making it a great addition to soothing sunburn cubes. The mint plant is also a vasodilator, which stimulates circulation and helps create a warming feeling. If you combine mint with cool or cold ingredients, it feels refreshing on the skin. 

Herbal Ice Cubes To Soothe Sunburns

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water 
• 1 tablespoon each: lavender flowers, comfrey leaf, peppermint leaf, marshmallow root, and calendula flowers
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel

Instructions:

• Pour the water into a small pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. 
• Add the herbs to the pot, cover with a lid, and remove from heat. Allow the herbs to steam for 15 minutes. 
• Strain the herbs out, which will leave you with about one and three-quarter cups of tea. Put that herbal tea in the fridge to cool. 
• Once the herbal tea is no longer hot, add the aloe vera gel and stir to combine. Pour this mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. 
• Pop out an ice cube after coming home with a sunburn and apply it to the affected area. You can wrap the ice cube in a paper towel if you need to.

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Although it’s not officially summer, the sun is out and the weather is warming up. That means that your exposure to UVB rays from the sun is inevitable. These rays cause the skin to redden and blister if you don’t take the proper measures to protect your skin. Allowing the sun to damage the outer protective layers of the skin increases the risk of dry skin and skin cancer. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) said that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at one point during their lifetime. 

There’s nothing like a relaxing day in the sun. While it’s important to swim in the lake or ocean, get a tan, throw a football, and enjoy snacks outside, it’s equally as important to protect the skin while outside the water. You may find it shocking that a recent study found that 46% of Americans never wear sunscreen. The same study revealed that 62% of Americans use anti-aging products. This is strange, considering that sun-damaged skin looks older, as too much sun exposure damages the outer layers of the skin. It’s actually better to apply a natural sunscreen daily to keep the skin looking young and healthy. 

Summer is around the corner, which means that sunburns are as well. The sun can burn your skin quickly if you are not prepared. Keep the following tips in mind to help you prevent sunburn this summer. 

Be Selective About Your Outdoor Time

If you want to keep your skin healthy and safe, avoid time in the direct heat, which tends to occur during peak sun hours. Generally speaking, peak sun hours range from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but these times may vary upon your location. If you are out on the lake or on the beach, water reflects the sun’s rays, giving you more sun exposure. Not only does spending time in peak heat increase the risk of sunburn, but it also makes you prone to dehydration. If you have to be in the sun during peak hours, wear sunscreen, light clothing, and a hat for extra protection. 

Apply Sunscreen At The Right Time

There are sunscreens that are both gentler on your skin and eco-friendly. They are reef-safe, meaning that they don’t damage the coral, which is dying or already dead in most areas of the ocean. Apply sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. This allows the sunscreen time to set on the skin, and you won’t start sweating it off immediately in the sun. You should also choose a lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. 

Wear Sunscreen Responsibly

To piggyback on the aforementioned tip, you should wear the right type of sunscreen. If you are going to spend time near or in the water, purchase water-resistant sunscreen, otherwise it will wash away easily. Another thing to consider is that you should apply enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass when you first apply. Additionally, opt for non-spray sunscreens for your children. According to the FDA, spray sunscreens are discouraged for children because the chemicals can be inhaled and cause respiratory problems. Many people think that spray sunscreens are easier to apply, but they don’t apply enough and it’s easier to miss spots. 

Don’t Be Shy, Accessorize

Hats and sunglasses are your friends during the warmer summer months. While a regular baseball cap may suit you on a slightly sunny day, a hat with a wide brim that goes around the hat is best for peak heat sun time. Sun hats and farmer/beach hats offer wonderful protection for your ears, neck, and face. While all sunglasses are beneficial, sunglasses that have polarized lenses with 99-100% UV protection better protect your eyes and the surrounding skin.

Seek Shade When Possible

Naturally, an efficient way to avoid sunburn is to seek out shade. Depending on how shady the area is, though, you may still need to apply a layer of sunscreen for protection, especially if you are prone to sunburn. If you have fair skin, 15 minutes of direct sun exposure can lead to sunburn. A good rule of thumb is to spend at least as much time under cover as you do in the sun. 

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Heading to the beach, pool, or lake this summer? What would a day by the water be without a little color? The goal is not to turn into a lobster; rather, it should be to get a subtle kiss from the sun in the form of a tan.

Spending a lot of time in the sun can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper measures to protect your skin. You can continue to apply sunscreen (preferably a safe mineral version) and spend trade off between sun exposure and time in the shade. Should you want to absorb some free vitamin D and tan, you may want to use a tanning oil. 

How Does Tanning Oil Work?

Essentially, a tanning oil helps to accelerate the process of tanning when you are out in the sun. Tanning oils attract more UV rays to help you achieve a deeper tan by allowing your skin to absorb them at an increased rate. When you apply a thin layer of tanning oil to the skin, you lower the skin’s refractive index. The result is a nice looking tan, but how healthy is this process for your skin? 

Most tanning oils lack SPF protection, even if you use natural oils, including coconut oil, sunflower oil, or olive oil. Most tanning oils have 15 SPF or less, but that is not enough to protect your skin from UV rays. Without proper SPF protection, the skin is not protected from sun exposure. Tanning is inherently “not great” for your skin, but you can tan smartly. If you want to tan, try to use an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every couple hours. Don’t forget to find shade so you aren’t in the sun for too long. 

A quick note: tanning is ultimately caused by an increase of melanin pigment formation. That only results from damage to the skin from harmful UV rays. Just keep that in mind when you decide to tan. 

Sun Protective Natural Ingredients

It is very important to understand that natural oils do not offer the same sun protection as natural oils. A 2021 study found that raspberry seed oil sits around 2.6 SPF, while carrot seed, coconut and wheat germ oils range from 0 to 2.8 SPF. A previous study from 2010 looked at the SPF of carrier oils and essential oils. Carrier oils ranged from 2 to 8 SPF, while essential oils ranged from 1 to 7 SPF. Olive oil and peppermint essential oil scored the highest. The only downside is that the study wasn’t conducted on human skin.

Even though the DIY tanning oil recipe in this article is not the same as regular sunscreen, it is healthier than a store bought tanning oil. This tanning oil contains olive oil, which has oleic acid and supports clearer skin. It also helps repair sun damage and may soothe dry skin. Plus, olive oil has high levels of squalene, which protects skin cells from aging. 

This tanning oil also contains avocado oil, which helps increase collagen production. Avocado oil is also rich in UV-protectant carotenoids, which offer mild protection from sun damage. Carrot seed oil offers vitamin A and vitamin E protection, which help fight off UV rays. Finally, raspberry seed oil is rich in antioxidants and doesn’t leave a greasy film after application. 

DIY Tanning Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red raspberry seed oil
• 1/2 teaspoon carrot seed oil
• 10 drops sandalwood essential oil (optional)
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon bronze mica powder (optional)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients, including the optional ones if using, to an amber glass bottle and shake well to combine. If you have a bottle with a pump or pop top, that is ideal. 
• Use as needed for mild sun exposure to help get a golden tan without burning the skin. 
• As a reminder, this is not a replacement for sunscreen and should not be used as such.

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As you prepare to soak up the sun during the upcoming summer season, make sure that you protect your skin from the sun’s rays. You’ve likely seen more sunscreen sprays and lotions available with summer on the horizon. Maybe you looked at a few, but didn’t think it was close enough to summer to splurge on sunscreen. Did you know that traditional sunscreen may pose a threat to your skin and the environment? Natural sunscreen is not only effective, but also great for your skin and environmentally friendly. 

Natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like titanium oxide or zinc oxide to block the sun’s rays. These types of sunscreens contain ingredients that are gentler on the skin. They also provide more moisture without irritating the skin, which means you are less likely to experience a reaction. Chemical-based ingredients, on the other hand, absorb UV rays instead of blocking them. These ingredients have been known to cause skin allergies or irritation in young and sensitive skin. 

Natural sunscreen also provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. That means that they have higher sun protection factor (SPF), so you can soak up the sun for longer without needing to reapply every hour. You still have to reapply natural sunscreen for optimum skin safety, though. Let’s take a closer look at some of this recipe’s ingredients below.

Zinc Oxide

This is the mineral of choice when it comes to blocking UVA and UVB sun rays. One study found zinc oxide to be effective against a broad range of solar spectrum in experimental models and outdoor settings. It is the only active ingredient in sunscreen that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for infants under six months. Most commercial sunscreens that don’t leave a white residue use nano-sized zinc oxide. Unfortunately, one study found that nano-sized zinc oxide absorbs easily into the skin and can cause unknown problems. Nanoparticles of both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide may cause potential photocarcinogenecity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. 

Carrier Oils

Not only do carrier oils work to condition the skin and help improve moisture content, but some of them also provide SPF qualities. Great choices include coconut oil, carrot seed oil, mango and cocoa butters, and avocado oil. The SPF value of avocado oil, coconut oil, and olive oil sit around 8, while almond oil sits around 5. Most nonvolatile oils sit between an SPF value of 2 and 8. That means that olive oil and coconut oil have the best SPF values, which is helpful when it comes to selecting carrier oils in the formulation of sunscreens. For this recipe, you will only need coconut oil and shea butter, both of which offer sufficient SPF value.

Natural Sunscreen Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles 
• 2 tablespoons of zinc oxide powder (non nano!)
• 1 tsp cocoa powder (this will vary according to skin tone, but test on your skin at time of blending to adjust if necessary)

Instructions:

• Place a small saucepan filled with a few inches of water over medium low heat. 
• Add the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pastilles to a heat-safe glass jar and place it in the saucepan on the stove. Leave the jar in the saucepan, stirring occasionally until completely melted. 
• Remove the saucepan from the stove and add the zinc oxide powder and cocoa powder to the jar. Stir to combine, ensuring that there are no powder lumps (30 seconds of stirring should suffice).
• Pour the sunscreen mixture into a glass storage container and allow it to cool at room temperature. Cover when cooled. 
• The sunscreen will maintain firmness as long as you keep it out of direct sunlight and not outside in temperatures that exceed 90º Fahrenheit.

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For many years, people have been advised against using oils on the skin to keep it clear. For this reason, people purchase oil-free skin care products in hopes of achieving clearer skin. According to researchers, there are surprising benefits to applying oils on the skin. In fact, certain oils have soothing and calming properties that can benefit irritated or inflamed skin. Other oils can help cleanse the skin, remove makeup, and reduce the risk of breakouts. 

What Is Cleansing Oil?

A cleansing oil is an oil-based cleanser that has the ability to remove makeup, surface debris, and excess oil from the skin. They work differently from water-soluble cleansers, which have a gel, cream, or foaming texture. Those traditional cleansers use surfactants, which are ingredients that interact with makeup, surface debris, or oil on the skin in a way that allows you to rinse them away with water. If a cleanser contains hydrating ingredients, it will feel smooth and soft on the skin. Cleansing oils may also contain surfactants, but they are not the primary ingredients; rather, the oils do the work to cleanse the skin.

Benefits Of Cleansing Oils

First of all, the best cleansing oils for the skin contain non-fragrant plant oils. Those oils offer beneficial glycerides, which help remove grime, makeup, and more, while simultaneously hydrating your skin. Some of the primary benefits of using a cleansing oil include:

• They leave the skin feeling smooth and supple
• Compatible with most cleansers, should you want to double cleanse
• They aid with the quick and easy removal of most sunscreens and makeup types

How Do Cleansing Oils Work?

Oils do not simply moisturize or hydrate the skin, even though there is a difference between those two actions (click here for more info). Oils work as solvents, which are a group of ingredients that dissolve similar substances. If you remember chemistry class, like dissolves like, meaning polar compounds dissolve polar compounds. Polar and nonpolar compounds do not dissolve in each other, hence why oil and water don’t mix. 

Oils are lipophilic, meaning they are attracted to other oils, including sebum, which is what the skin produces. They are also attracted to oil-like ingredients in makeup, which is what gives them their ability to quickly dissolve makeup and excess oil.

Who Should Use A Cleansing Oil?

If a cleansing oil is made to be rinsable with water, then it is generally safe for all skin types. The use of a cleansing oil depends on a couple things: personal preference and how much long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen you wear. A good cleansing oil will break these products down easily. Just make sure that your cleansing oil does not contain any problematic ingredients, such as fragrances. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about that with the following cleansing oil recipe. Please enjoy and let us know if it works for you in the comments below. 

Homemade Cleansing Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup jojoba oil
• 1/4 cup + 2 teaspoons grapeseed oil
• 2.5 teaspoons castor oil
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cromollient SCE
• 1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil 

Instructions: 

• Once you’ve measured out all of the ingredients for the cleansing oil, pour them into a glass bottle, screw on the top, and shake well to combine. 
• Use as needed to help remove makeup or sunscreens.

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How many products have you seen that are intended to get rid of bags under the eyes? So many creams and serums claim to de-puff and lighten the area under the eyes, but they don’t always work. That’s especially true if you genetically inherited dark circles or eye bags. It’s also true if you have sensitive skin and easily react to ingredients in skin care products. Common causes of bags under the eyes include:

• Chronic fatigue
• Pigmentation issues
• Aging
• Allergies
• Eczema
• Sun exposure

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can contribute to dark circles under the eyes. Since nearly half the world’s population doesn’t meet daily water intake recommendations, drinking water is a great place to start. How much water you need to properly hydrate the body will depend on weight and level of physical activity. Generally speaking, drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day to hydrate the body. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should be drinking 75 ounces of water per day. 

Apply Tea Bags

It’s lovely to sip a warm cup of tea, but what do you do with the tea bag once you finish your cup? You probably throw it away, which is a huge mistake. If you drink a cup of green tea, chamomile tea, or peppermint tea, save the tea bag and put it on your eyes to help fight dark circles. Caffeinated teas work best because they help increase blood flow to the skin. According to research, green tea exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help decrease puffiness. 

Wear Sunscreen Daily

One of the main reasons to apply sunscreen every day is to reduce the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and skin discoloration. The American Academy of Dermatology Association encourages all people to wear sunscreen. Broad spectrum sunscreens help protect against UVA and UVB rays. Ideally, choose a mineral sunscreen and it may help protect against darkness under the eyes. You can also protect your eyes even more by wearing sunglasses and hats.

Wash Your Face Before Bed

If you improve your nightly skin care routine, you may not notice dark circles or bags when you wake up. You should always cleanse your face and remove makeup before bed. Sleeping with makeup, especially makeup around the eyes, can cause general irritation, allergic reaction, or infection that causes puffiness, redness, or other symptoms. Forgetting to wash your face at night may also increase your risk of wrinkles or general skin damage. 

Use A Cold Compress

If you need relief from under-eye bags, a cold compress may help relieve the inflammation. Applying a cold compress to the eyes also works to constrict the blood vessels quickly, which provides temporary relief. If you don’t have a cold compress, try some chilled cucumbers, a cold teaspoon, a wet washcloth, or a bag of frozen vegetables. Before you apply your cold compress, wrap it in a soft cloth to protect your skin from getting too clothes. Allow the cold compress to sit on your skin for about five minutes. 

Eat More Collagen-Rich Foods

The muscles and tissues that support your eyelids weaken as you get older. That means that you can experience sagging or bags under the eyes. If you increase your intake of vitamin C, the body has an easier time absorbing more hyaluronic acid, which naturally exists in the body. The amount that’s stored in the body, however, decreases with age. Foods that are rich in vitamin C work to boost collagen production by increasing hyaluronic acid levels. Great sources of vitamin C include kiwis, oranges, bell peppers, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, kale, and broccoli.

Cut Back On Alcohol

Decreasing your intake of alcohol relates to the first tip we gave in this article. Alcohol contributes to dehydration, and dehydration can increase the risk of under-eye bags or darkness under the eyes. If you crave that special drink, consider swapping it for sparkling water or infusing regular water with fruits and herbs. 

Keep Your Head Elevated While You Sleep

If you can fall asleep while elevating your head higher, then experiment with this method. Add an extra pillow to prop your head up higher in order to prevent fluid from accumulating in your lower eyelids, which creates puffiness while you sleep. If that is not doable, causes pain, or makes it too difficult to fall asleep, try to elevate the top end of your mattress a couple inches. There are special bed risers that can make this process easier.

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There’s nothing wrong with brewing a fresh cup of coffee to get your day started. What if you ground some coffee beans and didn’t pour hot water over them, though? What if you incorporated them into a sugar scrub that helps exfoliate and nurture your skin? The beauty industry recognizes coffee as a beneficial skin care ingredient, and we’ll cover why that is in this article. 

Body exfoliation is an essential part of skin care, and a coffee scrub is one of the best products to benefit your skin. Depending on the ingredients you pair coffee grounds with, a coffee scrub will have different benefits. For example, pairing it with jojoba or coconut oils can help infuse the skin with more moisture. Not only does coffee help exfoliate the skin, but it also provides the following benefits. 

Reduces Cellulite Appearance

Although coffee doesn’t make cellulite vanish magically, it may diminish the appearance of cellulite on the skin. The caffeine in coffee works to dilate blood vessels under the skin and stimulate blood flow. That works to improve the skin’s appearance, making it look tighter by shrinking those small dimples. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Coffee exhibits a high amount of polyphenols and other anti-inflammatory compounds. According to research, the specific anti-inflammatory effects of coffee are attributed to chlorogenic acid, a compound in coffee. Including coffee in your body scrub, or other skin care products may help reduce redness, breakouts, or flare-ups on acne-prone skin. 

Works To Moisturize Skin

Some studies suggest that coffee bean oil contains essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid. These fatty acids are building blocks for ceramides, which enhance your skin’s barrier (the outermost layer). Not only does that help lock in moisture, but it also helps keep out irritants. Research suggests that coffee’s polyphenols work to reduce skin dryness and improve microcirculatory function. 

Anti-Aging Properties

Due to the presence of antioxidants and polyphenols, coffee works to fight free radicals to help enhance the overall appearance of skin. One study found that the caffeine in coffee helped reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and wrinkles in middle-aged women. Additional research suggests that coffee exhibits antioxidant activity, thus improving fine lines, wrinkles, and overall appearance of skin.

Protects Against Sun Damage

Can you replace your sunscreen with coffee grounds? Absolutely not, but studies show that the caffeine in coffee helps protect against ultraviolet (UV) damage. Some research notes that coffee may protect against sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer caused by sun damage. Researchers state that caffeine acts similarly to sunscreen and preliminary test-tube studies show it may help kill skin cancer cells. 

Bean There, Done That

Was that overly corny? Regardless of your stance on puns, we want to urge you not to throw away your coffee grounds after you finish brewing a hot cup of coffee. Save the coffee grounds and add them to your beauty regimen. As with so many other foods, coffee provides a host of skin care benefits. In fact, it helps reduce the appearance of dark circles under your eyes, which is why coffee extract is a common ingredient in under-eye creams.

Homemade Vanilla Coffee Body Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups white sugar
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 20 drops vanilla essential oil
• 1 tablespoon coffee grounds

Instructions:

• Add the sugar, coconut oil, and vanilla essential oil to a medium mixing bowl and stir well. 
• Add in the coffee grounds (fresh or used is fine) and stir well to combine. 
• Pour the mixture into some four-ounce mason jars and store in a cool-dry place. This scrub will last about two to three weeks, so consider giving some of it to a close friend or family member if you don’t think you’ll use it all in time.

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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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The post The Best Ingredients To Protect Your Skin Against Environmental Damage appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.