bookmark_borderIs Dairy Good or Bad For Your Skin?

Getting great skin is dependent upon not only on what you put on your skin, but what you put in it as well. One food group that has often been said to impact one’s skin is dairy. So let’s take a look – is dairy good or bad for your skin?

Dairy products are pro-inflammatory, which means they can worsen acne issues and also accelerate aging (according to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, M.D.). Focus on getting your calcium intake in other forms, such as dark leafy greens and tofu.

Growth hormones in milk can cause acne.  IGF-1, a hormone often found in milk, can cause acne breakouts in humans. IGF-1 is one of several factors that cause inflammation in humans and eventually lead to acne, according to Devin Mooers. If you’re having trouble with your complexion, try switching to non-dairy options like almond milk, hemp milk or soy milk as an alternative to dairy.

Registered dietitian Maria Bella agrees, citing the hormones in milk as the reason for certain skin issues.  “Most of the cows used in farming are actually pregnant cows. The hormones such as progesterone and insulin growth factors make their way into the milk,” Bella explains. “When we consume the milk, it leads to increased levels of inflammation, skin breakdown, aging and acne in many people.”

Dairy causes your skin to produce excess sebum (oil), which can lead to clogged pores (which often leads to breakouts or worsening of acne).

 

bookmark_borderThe Beauty Benefits of Lemon Water

Lemon water isn’t just a yummy alternative to sugary sodas and juices, it also does wonders for your skin and health. You’ll notice that many wellness experts advise drinking a big glass of lemon water each morning, but why? Below are just a few of the many beauty benefits of drinking lemon water.

It keeps you — and your skin — hydrated. When you don’t get enough water, your skin reflects that. Dry, flaky skin or breakouts can occur, which is a telltale sign you need to up your water intake. Adding lemon to your water makes it a bit tastier to drink, which can encourage you to get the recommended eight glasses a day. You’ll start to notice less dry skin after starting this ritual.

It brightens your skin. Lemons contain antioxidants that work to reduce uneven texture and coloring in your skin and give you a brighter appearance. Some women even rub a lemon half directly onto their skin to get extra brightness.

It helps reduce wrinkles. Lemons work to combat damaging free radicals and remove them from your body. Lemons are also a good source of vitamin C, which repairs damaged skin cells and helps you get rid of fine lines and wrinkles.

bookmark_borderHow to Take Care of Your Skin on Spring Break

So, you’re heading out on spring break? While you’re obviously excited and hopefully already have your bags packed, we’re sharing a few words of caution to make sure your trip is comfortable and fun. Spring break introduces a variety of skin challenges, ranging from intense sunburn to poor water quality. Here are a few ways to take care of your skin on spring break.

Be sure to pack and use sunscreen. Ideally, you should pack a few different sunscreens for each activity you plan on participating in. For example, if you’ll be swimming all day, make sure you have a waterproof version that won’t slide off. Look for formulas that contain SPF 30 or higher and also have high levels of zinc oxide. If you anticipate a burn (or are being extra careful), bring some natural aloe vera to soothe burns.

Be prepared for a breakout or two. Chances are that if you’re spending time in a warmer climate, you will inevitably be sweating more and producing more oil. This can cause surprise breakouts, so it’s best to be prepared with a spot treatment or acne-clearing face wash. And throw in a small pot of concealer while you’re at it!

Exfoliate when needed. If your skin does start peeling or gets dry or damaged from the sun/climate, you’ll want to bring a gentle exfoliator, like Shinso Glow, in your suitcase. This helps get rid of the skin cells you no longer want and lets your healthy skin breathe.

Stick to the basics. You can’t carry your entire bathroom with you on vacation, so be sure to pack only what is necessary. You don’t want to spend your entire vacation applying lotions and creams, do you? Look for products that serve multiple purposes, like moisturizers with a hint of color for a natural (and safe) glow.

bookmark_borderHealthy on the Inside= Healthy on the Outside

If you feed your body the right nutrients, it will show on the outside (especially on your skin). You want to be cautious of what you eat and drink, since it will effect the quality and look of yours kin. Here are a few tips to stay healthy on the inside and outside.

  • Stay away from processed foods and high sugar and carb diets. As a general rule, anything that is prepackaged or has ingredients you can’t pronounce isn’t necessarily the best choice. Lots of carbohydrates can cause breakouts, so watch out for those.
  • Drink an adequate amount of water. You don’t necessarily have to drink the full 8 glasses (that can be hard), but try your best.
  • Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, which contain water, vitamins and nutrients that your body and skin needs.
  • Try to limit your alcoholic intake. Having a drink now and then is fine, and make sure to drink a full glass of water for each drink you have to stay hydrated.
  • Swap out coffee for green tea. Green tea contains anti-inflammatory properties that protect and benefit the skin’s overall health.
  • Try to get in the daily requirements of vitamins. Vitamins C, E, A, K, and B can all help improve skin health.
  • Lastly, avoid smoking, since it’s terrible for your skin.

 

 

bookmark_borderValentine’s Day Beauty Ideas

Whether you have a hot date lined up or are going out with your girl friends, almost everyone has some sort of Valentines’ Day plans. To feel your best, you want to look your best, especially for a special occasion. Here are a few ways to pamper yourself to look great for the holiday of love.

Indulge your skin. It’s the perfect time to pamper yourself with the gift of luxurious skincare- like the Shinso Line. Shinso Essence is a luxurious serum that instantly rejuvenates and tightens your skin, while it goes to work on the deepest layers to boost collagen production. It helps to smooth and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles giving you a similar topical botox like effect naturally. Shinso Mist  invigorates and revitalizes your skin. Lastly, Shinso Glow exfoliates and rejuvenates the skin, leaving it refreshed and glowing.

Indulge in a nice massage. Massages are a great way to relax and also make great gifts. Soak in a hot bath with your favorite essential oils to start. This leaves you feeling clean and relaxed. Next, make an appointment for a massage ( solo or couples) and relax.

Indulge in a mani/pedi. If you want to save some money, you can always DIY at home. Soak feet in warm water, exfoliate with a foot scrub, then apply a rich foot lotion. Pick out a few of your favorite shades (red and pink are perfect for the holiday!)