Beauty

  • Beauty

    7 Surprising Daily Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil

    Natural Beauty

    If there’s ever been a natural beauty cure-all, it’s coconut oil. This centuries old beauty staple boasts an abundance of benefits while maintaining a long shelf life due to its natural antibacterial properties.

     

    Coconut oil is best known for its ability to make skin feel irresistibly hydrated and all-around radiant.  This is because it’s rich in Vitamin E and medium-chain fatty acids. MCT’s help retain the moisture content of your skin keeping it looking and feeling silky smooth. Both MCT’s and Vitamin E are essential nutrients for healthy skin growth, repair, and the prevention of premature aging. 

     

    Coconut oil is an indispensable multitasker and there are endless ways to incorporate this natural elixir into your beauty routine. Body moisturizer, eye makeup remover, hair mask, and teeth whitener are just a few of my personal favs! 

    Skin Deep

    As with anything you apply to your skin, quality is key. Low-quality coconut oil is highly processed and potentially laden with contaminates. These impurities can lead to breakouts and other skin irritations.

    Remember, your skin is your body’s largest organ so what you put on it, get’s absorbed in it. So make sure to use 100% pure, organic, cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut oil when possible.

    Did you know that coconut oil is also an effective anti-aging moisturizer for your neck and décolletage? When absorbed into your skin, it helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by keeping the connective tissues strong and supple. It also helps exfoliate the outer layer of dead skin cells, making your skin smoother and softer – while looking more youthful and radiant!  

    7 Surprising Daily Beauty Benefits Of Coconut Oil

    1. Hair Mask/Pre-Shampoo Treatment

    Saturate hair and twist up into a bun for at least 30 minutes prior to washing. Can also be left on overnight for a more intensive treatment. Shampoo, condition, and style as usual for healthier, smoother strands!

    2. Swimming Hair Protectant

    Swimming in chlorine pools and saltwater can dry out and damage your hair. Saturating your hair in coconut oil forms a protective layer to help prevent the salt and chlorine from damaging the cuticle.

    Simply apply coconut oil to your hair and twist up in a bun or braid like with the hair mask and it will help protect your hair from being stripped while swimming.

    3. Post Shave & In-Shower Moisturizer

    Apply coconut oil in the shower while your skin is still wet to help seal in moisture without feeling greasy. This works especially well post-shave to help soothe and soften your skin.

    You can also add a couple drops of coconut oil to your favorite body lotion to get that J. Lo Glow- naturally!

    4. Oil Pulling For Whiter Teeth & Fresher Breath.

    Oil pulling is an ancient Indian remedy that claims to whiten your teeth, freshen your breath, and greatly improve your overall oral health. Oil pulling reduces the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth by ‘pulling’ out impurities.

    How To Oil Pull: Spoon out about a tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around your mouth like mouthwash for a minimum of 30 seconds and up to 10 minutes. Make sure to spit out the oil and discard when finished. Then brush your teeth after making sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly.

    5. Sunburn Reliever

    Hands down, coconut oil is by far the most effective sunburn reliever I have ever tried – even better than Aloe! And I live in Florida where it’s not a matter of if, but when your best sunscreen intentions will fail you on a sunny afternoon. 

    So next time you end up a little more roasted than expected, start slathering your singed skin with coconut oil daily. It will help relieve the discomfort and sensitivity while healing much quicker than without. 

    6. Cellulite Reduction

    Coconut oil combined with dry brushing is one of the most popular natural methods for reducing the appearance of cellulite. This technique works best after a hot shower while your pores are still open.

    Start at your ankles and begin dry brushing up your legs using small upward strokes towards your heart. Next, massage in coconut oil while paying special attention to areas where cellulite is a concern. I put this method to the test and performed it about twice a week for 6 months and I definitely see a difference in the tone, smoothness, and overall health of the skin on my thighs! 

    7. Eye Makeup Remover

    Coconut oil is a gentle and effective way to break down and remove makeup, including the stubborn waterproof versions! However, steer clear of this method if you have eyelash extensions because the oil can break down the lash adhesive.

    Simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to a cotton pad or your fingertips and gently massage around your eyes to dissolve the makeup. Then wash your face as usual with your favorite cleanser right after.

  • Beauty

    How To Choose The Best Facial Oil For Your Skintype

    Beauty Facial Oil with flowers
    Beauty Facial Oil with flowers

    The Beauty of Facial Oils

     The most timeless beauty trend will always be healthy, radiant skin. People travel the world, spend infinite amounts of money, and try any treatment possible for a youthful, glowing complexion. Healthy, luminous skin needs hydration and facial oils are one of the best ways to keep moisture in your skin while also protecting it from environmental damage.

     

     I’m sure you’ve noticed the rising popularity of facial oils as they’ve been popping up all over Social Media and Sephora shelves. And as a devoted facial oil lover for over 8 years, I confirm that facial oils are totally worth the hype!

     

     Yet, once upon a time, not so long ago, “oil” was a dirty word in the beauty world.  Oil-free was prominently labeled on most skincare and makeup products. But that was before we understood just how beneficial the right facial oils can be in your beauty routine. 

     

     And yes, every single skin type can benefit from using the right facial oils. The secret is making sure you’re choosing the best type for your particular skincare needs. For example, grape seed, tea tree, meadowfoam, and rosehip seed oils are all good options if you have oily skin. They’re non-comedogenic and lighter in texture so they won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. 

     

     Facial Oils are one of the few products that can treat skin issues while giving you that bright and radiant complexion naturally. And many have anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antioxidant benefits as well.

    How To Choose The Right Facial Oil For Your Skin Type

    ✔️ Look for oils bottled in dark glass as exposure to light and heat can spoil the oil.

    ✔️ Choose organic, cold-pressed oils when possible.

    ✔️Check the ingredients on the label to ensure the oil is 100%

    ✔️Choose the right oil for your skin type. There are different oils that work better for different skin types so the following guide will help you pick the best facial oil for you.

    If You Have Dry Skin...

    Dry skin is usually a result of drier climates, over washing, over exfoliating, hot showers, or your skin’s not producing enough oils naturally. So the application of hydrating oils helps aid in the prevention of water loss by sealing in hydration. However, the most effective way to hydrate skin is from the inside-out. So remember to drink enough water throughout your day to maintain hydration.

    Pro Tip: Use a hyaluronic acid moisturizer with a few drops of facial oil for an extra youthful glow. Hyaluronic acid helps to plump skin and replenish moisture loss.

     

    What to try:

    Sweet Almond Oil

    Almond oil is intensely hydrating, rich in vitamin E and has been shown to stimulate collagen production. It’s great for both dry skin and dry hair. It’s nourishing and gentle enough for anyone with eczema or dermatitis. It’s also incredibly high in vitamin A giving it some line-smoothing and zit-fighting power when used topically over time. 

    Squalane Oil

    Squalane is derived from olives and because its molecules are very small, it can be easily absorbed and has amazing benefits for all skin types. When applied topically, squalane has tremendous skin benefits. It’s also rich in antioxidants to fight skin damage and free radicals – both of which accelerate the aging process. Regular use can also boost collagen production, resulting in firmer skin.

    If You Have Oily Skin...

     Contrary to popular belief, facial oils are not off-limits to people with oily or acne-prone skin. I know it sounds counterintuitive, but the right oil can actually help stabilize and regulate your skin’s own natural sebum production. This is because breakouts are due to overactive oil glands so using a facial oil such as rose hip seed can actually help regulate your skin’s natural oil production.

      Opt for lighter oils like grape seed, rose hip, and tea tree oils. These oils contain ingredients that can kill acne causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and help slough-off dead skin cells. Try to avoid using heavier oils on your face like coconut oil which can potentially clog pores.

    Pro Tip: Use a moisturizer with alpha hydroxy acid with a few drops of facial oil as an effective option for oily or acne-prone skin.

     

    What to try:

    Grape Seed Oil

      If your skin is incredibly oily, opt for a lighter oil like grape seed oil. It’s a natural astringent so it helps mattify your skin. Grape seed oil contains high amounts of antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and vitamin E. Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it’s used to treat acne by attacking the bacteria in your pores that cause breakouts. Grape seed oil also contains a powerful antioxidant called proanthocyanidin. This antioxidant has been shown to even out skin tone when used on your skin consistently.

    Rose Hip Seed Oil

    When you want to treat irritated, angry, broken-out skin, you’ll want to try rose hip seed oil. It hydrates without clogging your pores and has been shown to help fade acne scars. Prized since ancient times for its valuable healing benefits, rose hip oil is loaded with skin-nourishing vitamins and essential fatty acids. It also contains phenols that have antiviral, antibacterial properties. Rose hip seed oil has also been shown to help calm irritations from rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. 

    If You Have Combination Skin...

    People with combination skin can see a dramatic difference in the evenness and tone of their complexion when using the right facial oil. Squalane, jojoba, and marula oils are your best bet. They are hydrating yet easily absorbed so they are excellent for all skin types.

     

    What to try:

    Jojoba Oil

    Jojoba is an incredibly lightweight and breathable oil that actually breaks down and dissolves sebum to help control shine too. This makes it great for combination skin that still needs moisture. Jojoba oil also has anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce redness and ease the effects of eczema and rosacea – keeping skin calm and clear. Also rich in Vitamin E and B-complex vitamins to help repair skin damage.

    Marula Oil

    Marula oil is great for combination skin since it’s not heavy and won’t leave you feeling greasy. Because marula oil is lightweight, it absorbs easily and is an effective moisturizer for dry skin too. It’s also been shown to be beneficial for smoothing and softening fine lines, preventing stretch marks, and reducing redness in dry, irritated skin. This oil is rich in omega fatty acids, amino acids and antioxidants to keep skin hydrated and well-nourished.

    If You Have Sensitive Skin...

    If your skin’s sensitivity is caused by dryness, using the right oil can help calm and regulate your skin by improving hydration. People with sensitive skin or known allergies to botanical ingredients may need to be extra cautious when trying a new facial oil.  If you have sensitive skin, perform a patch test on your inner arm before using any oil on your face.

     

    What to try:

    Argan Oil

    Argan Oil is silky, soothing, and sinks in quickly. Rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, it’s shown to help prevent skin damage, dark spots, and fine lines by blocking environmental damage. Argan oil is a champion beauty oil that can also be used on your hair and body as well. Josie Maran’s entire skincare line is centered around this miraculous oil.

    Aloe Vera Oil

    Aloe is considered a superfood powerhouse and is filled with anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. It also has the added bonus of being a natural antibacterial and astringent, making it a great option for sensitive skin that’s also oily or acne-prone. Aloe oil is shown to help reduce redness, irritation and discomfort too. That’s why it’s most famous for the healing relief of sunburns.

    For Anti-Aging Benefits

    Our bodies produce oil naturally, but as we age that production starts to decrease significantly. The skin needs oil to maintain a healthy balance, otherwise, it gets too dry which can cause fine lines, and wrinkles. Facial oils have been proven to help your skin retain moisture, making it softer, smoother and less prone to fine lines and the visible signs of aging. These oils can also be used along with retinoids to help soothe and hydrate skin since retinol can be very drying. Those with oily skin can still use 2-3 drops for the anti-aging benefits without the greasiness.

     

    What To Try:

    Camellia Seed Oil

    Camellia seed oil is rich in Oleic Acid (Omega 9) up to 80%! It’s also high in polyphenols, vitamins A, D, C, E, and other antioxidants giving it excellent skin and hair moisturizing properties. Camellia oil contains fatty acids linoleic and palmitic acids, helping to maintain moisture in the skin and protect the skin from UV and environmental pollution exposure. Vitamin A encourages healthy skin cell production, while Vitamin D supports the growth and repair of these new cells. This nourishing oil has been the treasured beauty secret of Japanese Geisha’s for centuries.

    Moringa Oil

     Moringa oil is packed with anti-aging antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and vitamins E and C to protect your skin from free radicals and photoaging caused by ultraviolet rays. Moringa oil also contains the amino acids L-arginine and glutamic acid, which have collagen stimulating, anti-aging benefits that can increase skin’s elasticity. It’s lightweight, yet still moisturizing enough for dry skin.

    It's Time To Get Your Glow On! ✨

     Now that you have an idea of which facial oils to try, here are a few quick tips on how to incorporate them into your beauty routine…

     ✔️On freshly washed skin, add a few drops of oil to your hands and gently press into skin and lightly massage in an upward sweeping motion.

    ✔️Add a few drops of oil to your tinted moisturizer for a more radiant glow.

     ✔️Add a few drops of oil to your favorite facial or body moisturizer for a luminous complexion.

    ✔️Combine multiple oils to create the perfect personalized blend for your skin type.

    ✔️Saturate your hair in coconut, avocado, and/or camellia oil prior to washing. Twist it up in a bun and let sit for a minimum of 30 min or overnight for an intensely hydrating pre-poo treatment. It washes out easily and leaves your hair feeling extra smooth and silky!

  • Beauty, Body, Mind

    10 Secrets You Need For Summer Self-Care Survival

    Woman relaxing on beach enjoying summer self-care.
    Woman relaxing on beach enjoying summer self-care.

    Summer Self-Care Survival Guide

     Ah summertime… Hot and humid days, lighter evenings, BBQ’s and beach time. But amidst all of the summer gatherings and festivities, remember to take the time to recharge yourself with daily self-care activities.

     Self-care simply means doing the things that help you live well – both physically and mentally. Having daily self-care rituals has been found to reduce stress and anxiety, boost your self-esteem, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy!

     So enjoy the season, elevate your mood, and prevent any summertime sadness with a little self-love, Vitamin D, and my top 10 secrets for your ultimate summer of self-care!

    sunscreen tube laying on beach

    1. Sunscreen Self-Care

    Protecting your skin from the harsh summer sun is one the most important things you can do for yourself this summer. Sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer, wrinkles, sunspots, and photo-aging caused by the damaging UV rays. Dermatologists all agree that sunscreen is one of the most effective anti-wrinkle creams available. And mineral sunscreens are the healthiest for your skin as well as the environment.

    woman swimming and relaxing in an innertube

    2. Go For A Swim

    Get a healthy dose of vitamin sea this summer and go for a swim in salt therapy. And if you don’t live near an ocean, going for a swim in a pool or lake can feel just as refreshing. Bring a float or noodle to make your swim even more relaxing. Swimming is a proven stress reliever, mood booster, and sleep enhancer. 

    So cool down, unwind, have fun, and go swimming!

    woman hiking in the mountains and reaching for the sky with happiness

    3. Enjoy Nature Therapy

    Getting outdoors and going for a walk, hike, kayak, bike ride or anything else you enjoy outside can be very therapeutic. Appreciating the fresh air, clear skies, and the sweet smells of summer is an incredibly effective mood booster. And exercising outdoors can elevate your levels of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin even more! Just going for a simple walk in nature is a form of active meditation that will help de-stress and clear your mind. So try nature bathing this summer to help you detox, detach, and recharge your senses!

    4. Protect & Self-Care Your Hair

     Healthy hair is hydrated but chlorine and salt water can dry out and damage your locks. Protect your hair from the harsh effects by applying a protective layer prior to swimming. Coconut oil is my go-to fav and one of the best options for preventing damage to your tresses. I saturate my hair with coconut oil and put it in a bun before I go swimming or Scuba diving and it works like a charm.

     Alternatively, a leave-in conditioner also works well as a barrier of protection to help keep your hair silky and detangled. Try to rinse your hair with fresh water asap post-swim. Your hair is more delicate and prone to breakage when it’s wet. The longer you let the salt or chlorine stay in your hair, the more damaging the effects will be.

    5. Declutter Your Space - And Mind

    Ever notice how when you clean out and organize your closet, you feel so much lighter and happier afterwards? That’s because studies have found that decluttering increases feelings of self-worth, confidence, and even boosts productivity. A clean and organized home can also improve sleep, boost mood, and promote relaxation.

    And summer is the perfect time to let go of the old and re-organize! Pick areas that need some deep cleaning – this could be your makeup collection, your kitchen, or even that miscellaneous drawer we all have that’s overflowing with stuff we don’t really need. Spend an afternoon clearing, organizing and refreshing your space. When you declutter your space, it helps declutter your mind as well.

    Woman enjoying music outdoors for self-care

    6. Create A Summertime Playlist

    Put together a mix of your favorite summertime songs for your auditory pleasure. Having a playlist dedicated to the season will help you have a more fun and memorable summer! I love the Reggae genre since it always seems to usher in the happy summertime vibes! A few of my favorite Reggae artists I recommend are; Bob Marley, Slightly Stoopid, Stick Figure, and The Movement.

    Be Present Box.

    7. Take A Tech Break

     Detox from tech and try not to be glued to your phone or computer all summer. There are so many fun summer activities you will miss out on if you are mindlessly scrolling through Tick-Tocks and IG. Take a social media hiatus and get outside to soak up some Vitamin D and find fun new things to do. Read a book outside, watch a sunset or go forest bathing to detach, de-tech, and reconnect with yourself.

    woman sitting outside meditating

    8. Meditate Outside

    Relax, refresh and recharge by taking your meditation practice outside. Meditating outdoors is great way to get in touch with nature and your inner-self. Feel the breeze and appreciate the sweet summertime fresh air. And if sitting still isn’t your thing, going for a walk outside is a form of active meditation that also helps quiet your mind and relieve tension. Listening to the sound of waves while relaxing or meditating has been shown to help calm and soothe your senses.

    9. Light Summery Candles

    Create the full sensory experience by adding some warmth and heavenly summertime aromas to your space. Light some beachy candles that remind you of tranquil waters and coconut-laced beach days for ultimate aromatherapy.

    Woman relaxing in bath tub enjoying self-care.

    10. Enjoy A Self-Care Spa Day

    Relax and recalibrate with a self-love spa day – or spa night! Put on a face mask, do a mani-pedi, and/or soak in a therapeutic bubble bath. Pamper yourself with anything that helps you to clear your mind and unwind. I love to recreate the spa experience at home by lighting candles and playing relaxing spa music. Some of my favorite spa playlists are by, Dean Evenson and Dan Gibson.

    And to learn more about why self-care is essential to your year-round sanity, check out my 50 Favorite Self-care Ideas post here.

  • Beauty

    Best Anti-Aging Skin Cream | The Beauty Of Mineral Sunscreen

    Woman enjoying the sun on the beach while wearing mineral sunscreen.
    Woman enjoying the sun on the beach while wearing mineral sunscreen.

    The Beauty Of Mineral Sunscreen

    The weather is warmer, summer is around the corner, and everyone wants to be outside soaking up some sunshine and vitamin D!

     However, as lovely as that sounds, the intense UV rays can cause sunburns, premature aging, wrinkles, age spots, sun spots, and freckles. Doctors and dermatologists agree that damaging UV rays have been shown to accelerate photo-aging and increase your risk of skin cancer. This is why mineral sunscreen is the #1 doctor-recommended, anti-aging, skin cream that’s proven to help prevent sun damage.

    But unfortunately, not all sunscreens are created equal. So in this post I’ll be explaining everything you need to know about the differences between mineral vs. chemical sunscreens – and why you should choose mineral.☀️

    Mineral Vs. Chemical Sunscreen

    There are 2 main types of sunscreen, mineral and chemical. 

     Mineral sunscreens are not only effective against UVA and UVB rays – but they’re also formulated without the toxic ingredients found in chemical sunscreens.

     Mineral sunscreen is essential to preventing sun damage and keeping your beautiful skin healthy and looking youthful. And the new mineral formulas have vastly improved so they’re more transparent (sans white cast).

     Mineral (aka physical sunscreens) are different than chemical because they act as a physical barrier to help protect your skin. It works by blocking and reflecting the sun rather than using energy conversion like chemical sunscreens.

     There are 2 types of mineral-based formulas: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Both are beneficial in protecting and shielding from harmful rays. 

    The Scary Truth About Chemical Sunscreens

    There’s an abundance of toxic chemicals found in chemical sunscreens that can cause a variety of problems for your health – as well as the environment.

    What’s worse is they usually contain ingredients that act as “penetration enhancers” to help these products adhere to your skin.

     As a result, many sunscreen chemicals are absorbed into the body and can actually be measured in blood, breast milk, and urine samples! Not to mention, inhaling these chemicals in sunscreen sprays can be harmful to your lungs and internal organs.

     The majority of sunscreens you’ll find in stores are the chemical versions that usually contain at least 2 of the following toxic ingredients:

     

    ☣︎ The Toxic Ten ☣︎

    • Oxybenzone
    • Avobenzone
    • Octisalate
    • Octocrylene
    • Homosalate
    • Octinoxate
    • Ecamsule
    • Octyl methoxycinnamate
    • Octyl salicylate
    • Cyclomethicone

     

    According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), some of these toxic chemicals are reported to be known endocrine disruptors. So in other words, they mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones in your body. And with regular use, studies have shown it can actually create a hormonal imbalance. Oxybenzone, specifically, has been linked to lower testosterone levels in men.

      In addition, some of these chemicals have been shown to be known carcinogens as well as the cause of skin allergies, rashes, redness, itching, burning, and blisters. 

    Remember, what you put onto your skin gets absorbed into your skin – so show some self-love and protect yourself with healthy, natural ingredients.

    A woman sitting on a beach blanket, in a bikini, applying mineral sunscreen to her legs.

    The Chemical Reaction

    With chemical sunscreens, the active ingredient is essentially changing light into heat energy which can create a negative chemical reaction on your skin.

     This heat conversion on the skin causes inflammation and is shown to actually produce more of a photo-aging effect!!

    And this is exactly why mineral sunscreen is the most effective anti-aging skin cream that money can buy.

     

    Healthy Living Coral

    The Environmental Impact of Chemical Sunscreens

    Not only can the ingredients in your average chemical sunscreen cause an array of health problems for you, but they also negatively impact coral life and marine ecosystems as well.

    Like your body, coral reefs are also irreplaceable. Oxybenzone is linked to causing coral DNA damage, and the degradation of our reefs. There is an overabundance of people using these chemical sunscreens worldwide.

     Consequently, each year around 14,000 tons of these toxic ingredients saturate our coral reefs. And the damage isn’t just from wearing these chemical sunscreens while swimming. Whenever you shower off these products, they enter the wastewater stream and ultimately into the ocean.

    Damaging Effects of Chemical Sunscreen on Coral

    Corals are composed of a calcium carbonate skeleton that houses microscopic algae. In short, the algae acts as a food source for the coral, and that’s what creates coral’s bright and beautiful colors. Even a small amount of oxybenzone can damage the DNA in both mature and larval coral.

     As a result, this causes the coral to reject this essential algae, bleaching the coral in the process. Without their symbiotic algae buddies, coral can’t survive long-term, and a thriving marine ecosystem is threatened.

     And one of the main causes of coral bleaching is… Chemical sunscreens.

    Key Takeaway | Use Mineral Sunscreen

     Needless to say, choosing the right sunscreen matters. When you’re shopping for an SPF, look for the labels that say mineral or natural sunscreen and preferably organic. Sunscreens should have a minimum SPF30+ and always reapply after swimming.

    Chemical-laden sunscreens pose detrimental and irreversible damage to your health, our coral reefs, and the entire marine ecosystem. As a diver, I’ve seen firsthand the damaging effects on coral reefs and the consequences these chemicals are creating over time. Protecting your skin shouldn’t come with a toxic price – and it doesn’t have to!

      So next time you’re heading out for a dose of vitamin-sea, remember the mineral sunscreen to help preserve your precious skin – as well as our beautiful planet.🌎

    Underwater picture of Christina Kathleen SCUBA diving next to healthy coral in Grand Cayman.