It’s safe to say that people are not afraid of putting oils on their skin anymore, and rightly so. That’s great, considering that beauty shelves used to be replete with oil-free ads. Applying oil to the skin is not a new practice; rather, many cultures have used oils to benefit the skin for centuries. Various oils exhibit skin-nourishing properties, but you do have to find the right oil for your skin type. 

What Is A Carrier Oil?

A carrier oil is plant-based and tends to have a neutral or mild scent. You can use them on their own, or mix them with other oils, such as essential oils. The great thing about carrier oils is that they do not contain fillers or chemicals that you typically find in store bought skin care products. The main thing to keep in mind when buying these oils, though, is to make sure they are cold-pressed. That is the best method of extraction for preserving their health properties. 

A carrier oil can help to naturally moisturize, protect, and improve the overall quality of the skin. Different carrier oils may benefit certain skin conditions, while others aim to rejuvenate and improve the skin’s appearance. Some can even help you balance oil production, offer anti-aging effects, and enhance the skin barrier. Below, you will find great carrier oils for different skin types. 

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is naturally rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help it function as a natural humectant. A humectant is a substance that attracts water, so it helps to hydrate the skin, nails, and even hair. Hemp seed oil is non comedogenic, meaning it will not clog your pores, and that makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone or oily skin. The antioxidants in hemp seed oil work to reduce the signs of aging, while the anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin. 

Sunflower Oil

Beauty experts note that sunflower oil is naturally balanced, meaning it is not too heavy or too light. Sunflower oil is widely available and works to promote skin hydration, protect the skin barrier, and reduce water loss. According to research, sunflower oil is naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which is why it is a common ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Several studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties in sunflower oil benefit people with eczema, or general redness or skin irritation. Use it as a post-shower body oil, an anti-aging mask, or after-sun nourishment. 

Olive Oil

Rich in vitamins A and E, olive oil is a great carrier oil choice if you want to reduce premature signs of aging. Olive oil’s polyphenols, antioxidants, and immune enhancers make it great for skin protection. It works to fight the effects of sun damage and may even soothe inflammation. That said, do not use olive oil topically if you have a history of eczema or allergic contact dermatitis. It has been associated with worsening atopic dermatitis.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, jojoba oil is one of the most common carrier oils in existence. It is beneficial for nearly all skin types and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and nourishing fatty acids. Jojoba oil can help moisturize the skin without leaving a heavy residue behind. You can use jojoba oil if you have combination skin, dry skin, or oily skin because it mimics the skin’s natural oils. Jojoba oil is also a natural emollient, helping to maintain a protective skin barrier. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Sure, almonds are a healthy, filling snack, but have you ever used sweet almond oil to nourish your skin? If you have very sensitive or dry skin, sweet almond oil will be a great moisturizing treat for your skin. It is replete with vitamin E, fatty acids, proteins, and various minerals, all of which encourage healthier skin. You can use sweet almond oil as a body oil, combining it with rose petals for an optimal floral scent and enhanced antioxidant activity.

Argan Oil

Great for the hair and skin, argan oil has been an effective moisturizer and cosmetic oil for centuries. Although evidence-based studies are lacking, argan oil has helped many people reduce premature signs of aging. Some research indicates that argan oil can restore some of the skin’s natural hydration and elasticity after menopause. Its anti-melanin action makes argan oil great for evening out skin tone. Argan oil also works to promote collagen production, replenish the skin with fatty acids, and treat acne.

Avocado Oil

As you know, avocados are naturally rich in fatty acids and beneficial nutrients. That makes avocado oil the perfect oil for moisturizing dry skin. Because it has vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil helps support collagen production and fights signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Among other beneficial properties, avocado oil works to moisturize dry skin and fight free radicals, which contribute to early signs of aging.

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In the dessert world, is there a more classic combination than lemon and poppy seed? Vanilla and chocolate may take the majority vote, but lemon and poppy seed is truly a great combination. Regarding this chia pudding, it is packed with incredible lemony flavor, poppy seeds, protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars. You can whip up this recipe in 15 minutes or less, place it in the fridge to set overnight, and then pull it out in the morning to enjoy as a healthy, filling breakfast.

The great thing about this chia pudding is that it only requires six ingredients. Chia seeds are the star of the show, and rightly so! They help to optimize digestive function and supply the body with a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit heart and brain health. The unique combination of healthy fats, fiber, and proteins in chia seeds makes them great to include in your breakfast because they help you satiate you. That means that enjoying chia pudding in the morning can help keep you full until lunch.

Although this recipes calls for homemade almond milk, you have the freedom to use the homemade nut or seed milk that you prefer. Homemade cashew milk, walnut milk, or even hemp seed milk can contribute to a creamy texture. If you want to go the full vegan route and abandon raw vegan (not endorsing this for cleansers), you can use oat milk or other store bought non-dairy milk. We would not use coconut milk, though.

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Fats play an integral role in your overall health, but not all fats are created equal. Ideally, you want to consume healthy fats that boost satiety factor, nutrient absorption, heart health, and more. Cooking oils are excellent sources of fats, but some may be more harmful than you realize. Additionally, some oils cannot handle high heat cooking and counteract the nutrients and benefits you get from other nutritious foods. 

How do you know which oil is the best to cook with? Well, different oils have different smoke points, making some better for cooking at higher temperatures. The Cleveland Clinic states that the more refined an oil is, the higher the smoke point it has. Unfortunately, these refined oils are not always the healthiest for you. In fact, a higher smoke point oil cooked at a higher temperature can produce toxic fumes and free radicals, both of which can harm your body. That’s why we’ve created a small cheat sheet about which oils to avoid for cooking. 

Vegetable Oil

Over the years, a lot of doctors have recommended vegetable oils to patients to improve cholesterol levels and overall heart health. Newer studies continue to find that vegetable oils are not as healthy for your heart as people originally thought they were. A 2016 study found that vegetable oil consumption increased, not decreased, the risk of heart disease. During the study, men and women were randomly assigned one of two diets: one group replaced all fats with vegetable oil and one group consumed a diet high in saturated fat from margarines, shortenings, and animal fats. At the end of the study, researchers noted that those following the vegetable oil diet had lower cholesterol levels. That said, the results didn’t hold after a year. For every 30 mg/dL drop in cholesterol, there was an increased risk of death by 22%. 

Soybean Oil

Made from the seeds of the soybean plant, soybean oil commonly exists in many foods, including condiments and salad dressings. Soybean oil is hydrogenated, meaning you should avoid it at all costs. Researchers found that soybean oil consumption increased the risk of anxiety, autism, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and other neurological disorders. One study from 2020 compared mice that were fed three different diets: soybean oil, soybean oil with low in linoleic acid, and coconut oil. Researchers noted that soybean oil had significant effects on the hypothalamus, the portion of the brain responsible for metabolism, hormone release, and body temperature regulation. The mice that consumed soybean oil experienced several genes that did not function correctly; plus, another 100 genes were negatively affected.

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is typically high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and is highly refined, unless otherwise specified. A few brands offer high-oleic sunflower oils, which are cold-pressed and offer monounsaturated fatty acids. Those varieties, while heat-stable and more nutritious, are much more expensive and harder to come buy. You would be better off buying extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil instead. 

Canola Oil

Roughly 60 to 65% of canola oil, or rapeseed oil, is naturally rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. That sounds appealing and usually fools a lot of shoppers, but there is some bad news. Canola oil is almost always chemically extracted and very refined. Similar to soybeans, an estimated 90% of canola plants in the United States and Canada are genetically modified to the point where they can withstand herbicides that are harmful to the environment. Cold-pressed canola oil is very hard to find, so it’s best not to get this type of oil at all. 

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is about 70% polyunsaturated fatty acids, most of which are omega-6s. Although grapeseed oil sounds healthy, it is just another oil that is highly refined. It doesn’t offer unique health benefits, nor does it exhibit a unique flavor profile. Once again, if you can obtain cold-pressed or expeller-pressed varieties, then do not opt for this oil because all of the other varieties do not benefit your health. Even if you get those healthier versions, grapeseed oil is not great for high heat applications because of its high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids. 

Cottonseed Oil

According to a 2014 report, the cotton plant contained natural toxins, specifically gossypol. High concentrations of free gossypol may cause acute clinical signs of gossypol poisoning. Some of these symptoms include impaired body weight gain, respiratory distress, apathy, weakness, anorexia, and death after several days. Gossypol can also impair immune function, as well as cause issues in both the male and female reproductive systems. Cottonseed oil is also high in saturated fat and only contains a small amount of monounsaturated fat.

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If you see a recipe for avocado salad dressing, you can usually expect cilantro and lime juice to be prominent ingredients. This recipe contains lime juice but not contain cilantro, so it takes a departure from the Latin-inspired flavor profile. This avocado salad dressing is a bit more herbaceous, almost like a green goddess dressing of sorts. It is quite vibrant and rich, exhibiting a lot aromatic flavors that come from green onion, parsley, dill, and basil.

The ingredient list for this dressing is far from short, meaning there are layers and layers of flavors. Avocados, however, are the prominent ingredients and provide a smooth and creamy base for this dressing. Not only that, but they also provide lots of nutrients that are essential to your overall health. Research indicates that the body can absorb lycopene and beta-carotene, two key carotenoid antioxidants, more easily when you consume fresh avocado with your salads. If you add one cup of fresh avocado to a salad with some romaine, spinach, and carrots, your body’s ability to absorb the carotenoids increases between 200-400%.

The essential fatty acids in avocados may help reduce inflammatory markers in the body, which can aid both brain and heart function. Avocados also play a role in keeping your immune system functioning optimally. They are naturally rich in glutathione, which is a detoxifying agent. Additionally, glutathione helps to cleanse the body of oxidized fat. Is there anything that they can’t do? Please enjoy avocados in this dressing, and whenever you get the chance!

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If you eat certain foods, especially unhealthy foods, you probably know how they affect your body. Perhaps your stomach hurts more if you eat a lot of fried foods. Maybe you feel more bloated after consuming a lot of pasta. The foods you eat influence your digestive health, but research shows that there is a link between nutrition and skin health. 

Researchers already know that the gut-skin axis influences skin inflammation management. If you eat more pro-inflammatory foods, the skin can age more quickly. High-glycemic foods can trigger acne flare-ups, especially in people who are genetically predisposed to acne. Eating too many sugary foods can lead to fragmented or hardened collagen, which weakens the skin’s foundation and increases the risk of premature aging. 

Learning about the foods that negatively affect the skin is just as important as figuring out which ones promote healthy skin. When you focus on consuming foods with skin-enhancing nutrients, you may notice more youthful skin. If you want to promote smoother, softer, and firmer skin, add the following three foods to your diet.

Mangos

If you enjoy the tropical sweetness of mango, consider your skin lucky! As long as you consume mangos in moderation, they may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. One study monitored the effects of consuming either a half-cup of mangos or a cup and a half of mangos, four times per week for 16 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers found that there was a reduction in wrinkle severity with the half-cup of mangos. The study authors attributed that to the carotenoid and flavonoid content of mangos. In the one and a half cup serving, however, the appearance of wrinkles increased. That is likely because of the higher sugar content. 

Almonds

If you need a midday snack to keep you full between meals, almonds are a great option. Not only do they satiate you, but they may also reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In a prospective randomized controlled study, dermatologists found that snacking on almonds helped ease dark spots and wrinkles. A separate study consisting of post-menopausal women examined almond consumption on several skin parameters. Study results suggested that daily almond consumption was able to reduce wrinkle severity and facial pigment intensity. In fact, daily almond consumption for 16 weeks showed a 16% reduction in wrinkles, compared to a controlled group. Dark spots reduced by 20%. Study authors attribute this quality to the antioxidant compounds in almonds, such as vitamin E. 

Salmon

The thing to note about salmon is that you want to purchase wild caught salmon, not farm-raised salmon. Does salmon reign supreme when it comes to omega-3 content? Although it does not top the omega-3 charts, it does have a high content, which is good news for your skin, heart, and brain. Studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease UV-induced skin stress, enhance skin hydration, and provide photo-protection. The fatty acids are just the tip of the beneficial iceberg, though. Salmon contains lots of antioxidants, including an impressive one called astaxanthin. According to research, astaxanthin improves skin hydration, elasticity, and texture. It may also help reduce fine lines and age spots. 

In a randomized controlled trial with 46 healthy female participants, researchers monitored a group that took astaxanthin capsules and a group that took placebo pills. In the astaxanthin group, researchers noted decreased wrinkle parameters in comparison to the placebo group. Another trial found that astaxanthin supplements helped reduce wrinkles after 16 weeks. 

In conclusion, what you eat influences how your skin looks as you age, for better or for worse. Although we are not advocating an all-or-nothing diet, keep in mind that the more you know about food, the healthier, and sexier, your body can be. Eat things that bring you joy, but know how different foods affect you.

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When you include hazelnuts as part of your healthy diet, they can provide a number of health benefits. Known as the filbert, the hazelnut is a type of nut that is primarily cultivated in Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the United States. They have a sweeter flavor profile and you can enjoy them raw, roasted, or ground. Similar to other nuts, they offer lots of healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals. In this article, we aim to detail the top five benefits of hazelnuts. 

Nutrition

Some of the standout nutrients in hazelnuts include vitamin E, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. According to available food data, one ounce of hazelnuts contains:

• Calories: 176
• Carbohydrates: 4.7 grams (g)
• Protein: 4.2 g
• Fiber: 2.7 g
• Total fat: 17 g
• Vitamin E: 21% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
• Copper: 24% of the RDI
• Manganese: 87% of the RDI
• Thiamin: 12% of the RDI
• Magnesium: 12% of the RDI

Hazelnuts also provide smaller amounts of zinc, vitamin B6, potassium, folate, and phosphorus. They are also excellent sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, offering omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, including oleic acid. Hazelnuts do contain phytic acid, which may impair the absorption of certain minerals, such as iron and zinc, from the nuts. 

Lowering Cholesterol

According to a 2013 study, a diet rich in hazelnuts decreased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. This is the bad type of cholesterol that can increase the risk of heart complications. The study authors concluded that the best way to reap these benefits was to enjoy hazelnuts daily without increasing overall caloric intake. A separate review of studies from 2016 indicated that hazelnuts could reduce bad cholesterol. Although hazelnuts are calorically dense, researchers didn’t note that they contributed to weight gain at all. 

Rich In Antioxidants

Antioxidants work to counteract oxidative stress in the body by neutralizing free radicals. Oxidative stress can damage cell structure, which can increase the risk of cancer, heart disease, and early signs of aging. Phenolic compounds, which are abundant forms of antioxidants, are readily available in hazelnuts. An eight-week study found that regular hazelnut consumption decreased oxidative stress, compared to not eating hazelnuts. Most of the antioxidants in hazelnuts are concentrated in the skin, but they may decrease after the roasting process. That’s why it is better to consume whole, unsalted hazelnuts with the skin. 

Lowering The Risk Of Cancer

Hazelnuts have the highest concentration of proanthocyanidins, which also exist in pistachios and pecans. These antioxidant compounds were able to treat certain types of cancers in some test-tube and animal studies. Researchers believe attribute this to reducing oxidative stress. Hazelnuts also provide a lot of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that has proven to protect against cell damage, which could potentially promote cancer development. Several test-tube studies found that hazelnut extract may be beneficial in the treatment of breast, liver, cervical, and colon cancers. Additionally, one animal study found that a product made from hazelnut skin extract revealed a lower risk of colon cancer after an eight-week period. More studies are necessary, but preliminary research is promising. 

Reducing Inflammation

A 2013 study found that a diet rich in hazelnuts reduced inflammation among participants. That said, researchers from another study noted that the changes in inflammatory markers were insignificant after eating hazelnuts. One study looked at how inflammatory markers reacted post hazelnut consumption. Participants in the study had high cholesterol and researchers observed significant reductions in inflammation after participants consumed a diet rich in hazelnuts for four weeks. During this period, hazelnuts accounted for 18-20% of their total caloric intake. Most studies conclude that eating hazelnuts alone is not enough to significantly reduce inflammatory markers. A calorie-controlled diet, exercise, proper hydration, and sufficient sleep all contribute to a reduction of inflammatory markers. 

May Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Researchers note that nuts may help regulate blood sugar levels. Although there isn’t a substantial amount of research, some studies indicate that hazelnuts may help reduce blood sugar. One study examined the effects of hazelnuts on fasting blood sugar levels in 48 participants living with type 2 diabetes. Half of the group consumed hazelnuts as a snack, while the others were part of a control group. After eight weeks, the hazelnut group did not experience notable reductions in blood sugar. That said, another 12-week study found that a combination of 30 grams of mixed nuts showed significant reduction in fasting insulin levels in people with metabolic syndrome.

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From jojoba and argan to coconut and beyond, many oils reportedly improve the skin’s appearance. Which ones are the most effective for improving the overall health and integrity of your skin, though? Whether you want to moisturize, protect, cleanse, or reduce fine lines, face oils may be exactly what your skin has been missing. 

First off, you must understand that each oil is unique and offers its own set of benefits. Additionally, one oil that works for one person may not work for another person. The unique biology of the skin may agree with oils in different ways. What is for certain is that many oils have been researched and reviewed by scientists and beauty experts. In this article, we’ll take a look at five different face oils and how they contribute to flawless-looking skin. 

Grapeseed Oil

Rich in high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, grapeseed oil works to increase the skin’s moisture levels. It also makes the skin more supple and less prone to cracking, which reduces the risk of wrinkles or fine lines. According to beauty experts, grapeseed oil is one of the best natural oils for facial skin, primarily because it contains proanthocyanidin. This antioxidant helps to even out skin tone and enhances the skin’s ability to bounce back. One study found that oral consumption of grapeseed oil reduced the appearance of melasma, which is characterized by blue-gray or brown patches on the face. 

Olive Oil

It shouldn’t be a surprise that olive oil, although a staple in many kitchens, made the list of beneficial face oils. Olive oil results from a process of pressing olive fruits to extract their oil. It contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, in addition to antioxidants and squalane. Research suggests that olive oil helps to fight free radical damage, slow skin aging, and hydrate dry skin. One animal study involving mice found that olive oil application to their skin yielded lower rates of tumors caused by ultraviolet rays. If you have sensitive skin, however, steer clear of olive oil because it may cause allergies. 

Marula Oil

If you are chasing the fountain of youth and yearn for beautifully radiant skin, marula oil offers impressive anti-aging benefits. Made from the marula trees in South Africa, marula oil can help smooth fine lines and may reduce the appearance of wrinkles. If you have dry facial skin, apply this oil to your face to leave it feeling soft and refreshed. Because marula oil has a high oleic acid content, it helps restore moisture in skin that is on the drier end of the moisture spectrum. The skin quickly absorbs this oil, so you can apply other products after without worrying about a greasy residue. 

Rosehip Oil

Beauty experts consider rosehip oil as one of the top anti-aging oils on the market. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin and is a dry oil, meaning it is fast-absorbing so as not to leave your skin greasy. Instead, applying rosehip oil can help contribute to smoother, softer, and more supple skin. Research shows that rosehip oil encourages cell turnover, so it acts as a natural exfoliant. It is a rich source of vitamin E and essential acids, which work to keep your skin soft and healthy. Rosehip oil may also be effective for eliminating hyperpigmentation, which is usually difficult to get rid of. 

Argan Oil

Harvested from the kernels of the argan tree in Morocco, argan oil is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, making it an excellent face oil. It helps to protect the skin and absorbs quickly, so you can use it with other skin care products. One of the attracting factors to argan oil is that it is great for all skin types, from very dry to very oily. It may help get rid of acne because it helps reduce inflammation and stays out of your pores. Lastly, argan oil’s antioxidants may help repair the skin and fight the signs of aging.

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Sea moss seems to be on everyone’s radar lately. It is a type of seaweed that exhibits potent nutritional benefits when consumed. Studies suggest that it also benefits your hair and skin when applied topically in the form of an oil. That’s why making your own sea moss oil can be an incredibly rewarding experience, primarily because you have complete control over its quality.

What Is Sea Moss Oil?

This is a natural cosmetic made from Irish sea moss, or Irish moss, and nutrient-dense oils. According to researchers, Irish sea moss exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties. Plus, it is rich in many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it great for the hair and skin. 

Making your own sea moss oil at home is quite easy, but you need to acquire some ingredients first. The primary ingredient is Irish sea moss, which is rich in carrageenan, a gelatinous substance that is commonly in commercial hair and skin care products. You need different oils to achieve the “oil” component of sea moss oil, though. For the most part, this recipe consists of different carrier oils and one essential oil (peppermint). The reason we chose peppermint essential oil is because it helps soothe inflammation, irritation, and itchiness on the skin and scalp. It may also relieve pruritus, a common skin infection that leads to rashes. 

Skin Benefits

Sea moss oil contains essential fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids, that play an integral role in the overall health and appearance of your skin. Fatty acids work to nourish and hydrate the skin, in addition to reducing inflammation associated with eczema and acne. The various antioxidants in sea moss and the different carrier oils may also offer some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays and damaging free radicals. Carrier oils like jojoba, olive, and sweet almond help lock moisture into the skin, which keeps it from drying out.

Hair Benefits

Sea moss oil is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which nourish the skin and may promote hair growth. While vitamin A helps encourage sebum production to moisturize the scalp, vitamin C strengthens hair follicles, which helps prevent split ends and breakage. Sea moss oil may also benefit those who suffer from dandruff or scalp psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory nature of the ingredients works to reduce scalp irritation, while simultaneously promoting healing. 

How To Use Sea Moss Oil

Sea moss oil makes a great addition to your skin and hair care routine. Working to reduce inflammation, sea moss oil may improve skin elasticity and hydrate the skin. To use properly on the skin, place directly on your face or skin. You can also incorporate other natural ingredients like raw honey or aloe vera to create a nourishing face mask. 

The anti-inflammatory properties in sea moss oil help to soothe an irritated scalp. The moisturizing properties in the oils help to keep the hair healthy from the roots to the ends. For optimal use, massage the sea moss oil into your scalp before you shampoo. Alternatively, add a few drops into your conditioner before you massage it into your hair and scalp. You can also add some sea moss oil to your bathwater, as it can help relax tired muscles after a long day, while simultaneously softening the skin. 

DIY Sea Moss Oil

Ingredients:

• Irish sea moss
• 5 tablespoons apricot kernel seed oil
• 5 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 2 tablespoons argan oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon peppermint oil (optional for fragrance)

Instructions:

• Wash the Irish sea moss to remove any debris or salt. Dry the sea moss and cut it into very fine pieces to place in a small jar. 
• Pour the carrier oils and optional peppermint oil into the jar. Screw on the lid and place the jar in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. This will allow all of the oils to infuse with the sea moss properly.
• After two weeks, strain the remaining solids through a cheesecloth and transfer the finished product to a glass jar with a dropper top. It is ready for use!

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The skin can take a beating during the winter, and many people experience excessive dryness as a result. Crisp wind, dry and cold air, and heat from furnaces create an unfriendly environment for the skin. You may notice flakier, drier skin that’s prone to itchiness as the temperatures drop. And it seems that all the lotion in the world can’t get rid of the dryness!

Just like any other system or organ in the body, the skin requires nutrients that help it grow and repair on a cellular level. When you eat the right foods or focus on the right nutrients, you can help rebuild the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF). This is a protective barrier that seals in moisture and protects the skin from environmental damage. It’s also beneficial to focus on water-rich foods that help hydrate the skin from within. 

We aren’t saying that your skin care routine is ineffective or outdated; rather, it may simply need a little enhancement. For example, using a moisturizer may prevent transepidermal water loss, but this won’t matter if the skin’s moisture barrier is weak. Attack the problem from all angles and your skin will be hydrated, moisturized, and supple before you know it. Continue reading to learn about the nutrients that will help hydrate the skin during the winter. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Many dermatologists recommend people to eat avocado, chia seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish if they want glowing skin. The reason for this is because these foods contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help to improve the skin’s hydration. Omega-3s are an integral component of the skin’s lipid content, and they work to improve the barrier function. If the barrier is working properly, the skin retains more moisture and helps to keep irritants out. Additionally, omega-3s may support the skin by way of hydration and antioxidant photoprotection. 

Vitamin A

During the fall and winter months, it’s very easy to get your daily dose of vitamin A. Many seasonal produce items are naturally rich in this nutrient. Winter squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, or even collard greens and kale are excellent sources of vitamin A. Not only does vitamin A help to maintain skin elasticity, but it also works to fight inflammation, which can contribute to dry skin during the winter. 

Antioxidants

You can include vitamins A, C, E, and other phytonutrients in this category. Antioxidants work to combat free radicals, which can impair the skin’s barrier function and increase the risk of transepidermal water loss. Eating a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can provide you with enough antioxidants to keep the skin hydrated. Astaxanthin, a unique phytonutrient, helps to improve skin elasticity and moisture levels. It may also protect the skin’s collagen layer. Other antioxidants may work to protect the skin from UVB rays and make positive changes to skin microbiome. 

Water-Rich Foods

In addition to drinking water every day, it can help to consume foods with high water content. Roughly 20% of the body’s water intake comes from diet, specifically fruits and vegetables. These foods also offer beneficial antioxidants and nutrients that help protect the skin barrier. Water helps to transport nutrients to your cells, while simultaneously getting rid of toxins. Keeping cells plump and healthy also discourages dry or dehydrated skin. Watermelon, cantaloupe, celery, lettuce, cucumber, radishes, and tomatoes are excellent water-rich produce items. 

Vitamin D

According to dermatologists, it’s easy for the skin to dry out if you are deficient in vitamin D, which is a fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin D actually triggers receptors that help promote the formation of the skin barrier. Food items provide a low amount of vitamin D, so a supplement may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to determine the correct dosage for your body. As a general note, it’s often better to take a smaller dose every day, as opposed to a larger dose once a week. 

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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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