#DIY Citrus Sugar Scrub

[merrybrides]

DIY: Summer Citrus Sugar Scrub

Rejuvenate and revive your skin with this easy citrus sugar scrub recipe. With only 3 ingredients you probably already have on hand, you’ll be ready to whip up this gentle exfoliating body scrub in no time! 

Sugar Scrub, or body polish is a luxurious way to refresh your skin. It is so gentle that it can even be used on sensitive skin. 

Exfoliating body scrub makes a great shower favor, quick gift, treat for yourself or a hostess gift when you are welcomed to a friend’s beach house.  This jar will keep my skin happy all summer long!

Keep a jar of this sugar scrub by your kitchen to soothe your hands after washing dishes. It will rehydrate your skin from the harshness of the hot water and dish soap. Keep a jar of sugar scrub in the shower for a mini spa treatment up to 3 times a week! 

Citrus Sugar Scrub Recipe Ingredients

It’s made with just a few ingredients, from your kitchen!

Sugar – 1/2 cup of regular white table sugar is perfect for this diy sugar scrub! It exfoliates your skin, gentling rubbing away dead skin cells leaving your skin feeling smooth and radiant. 

Oil – I use 1/4 cup Vitamin E Oil in this recipe which is so good for your skin. Its anti inflammatory properties soothes and calms, while hydrating dry skin and working to heal any blemishes. 

Citrus – Is so good for your body inside and out! Naturally full of vitamin C it leaves your skin with a beautiful glow! It also can help to lighten sun spots or other blemishes on your skin. I love the texture and beautiful color the citrus adds along with its amazingly refreshing scent!  You can use the zest from one Orange, Grapefruit, or Lemon, or 2 Limes, in this recipe.

*** Zest is made from the top layer of a fruit peel. Always try to avoid the white pith. If you don’t have a zester, you can use a vegetable peeler to gently peel the top layer of your fruit. Then cut the strips into finer strips lengthwise, and then again into tiny cubes widthwise. 

Supplies

Large Glass Mixing Bowl

Handheld Citrus Zester (variations under Tips and Tricks)

Spatula

Measuring Cups

Sealable Glass Jars (I like to use mason jars or repurpose clean jars I already own)

Ice Cream Scoop

How to Make Exfoliating Body Scrub

This scrub is so easy to make. It only contains natural ingredients and no artificial food colorings.

Combine sugar and oil.

2. Add zest.

3. Scoop into sealable glass jars.

4. Label and date.

5. Store for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Variations

This sugar scrub recipe is so easy to customize to fit your needs! 

Citrus Variations – In this recipe I use orange, but any other citrus would work well! In the past, I have used grapefruit, orange, lime, and lemon. They all have worked wonderfully! If using lime I chose to use the zest from 2 limes since they are smaller sized fruit.

Oil Variations – Vitamin E Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Carrot Oil, Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Grapeseed Oil. 

Sugar Variations – Any white sugar should work well in this recipe. Sugar is used for a gentle exfoliation so keep that in mind when choosing the coarseness of the sugar. 

For a winter sugar scrub try adding a dash of ground cloves or ground cinnamon. 

Add a few drops of essential oils. My favorite combinations include other citrus oils to complement and enhance, floral scents such as moroccan rose or lavender, and woody scents such cedar or rosemary. 

Pro Tip: If using coconut oil, it will help to slightly warm the oil on the stovetop or even the microwave before adding it to the mixture. I love coconut oil and lime combination! 

How to Store Sugar Scrub

This Sugar Scrub recipe can be stored for up to 3 months in a properly sealed jar / airtight container.  

PRO TIP: Upcycle jars you already own!

[curatedbyondrea]

Luxury DIY At-Home Spa Treatments

Here are some DIY spa treatment ideas to pamper yourself at home without breaking the bank:

Sugar Scrubs for Silky Skin:

Invigorating Citrus Scrub: Combine brown sugar with olive oil, lemon zest, and a few drops of lemon essential oil for a refreshing and uplifting experience.

Calming Coconut Coffee Scrub: Mix together coconut oil, brown sugar, and ground coffee for an exfoliating scrub that leaves your skin feeling smooth and invigorated.

Nourishing Face Masks:

Hydrating Honey Oat Mask: Mash together ripe avocado, honey, and oatmeal for a mask that deeply hydrates and soothes dry skin.

Brightening Yogurt Mask: Combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a touch of honey for a mask that helps brighten and even out your skin tone.

Relaxing Bath Rituals:

Stress-Relief Lavender Bath: Add Epsom salts, dried lavender flowers, and a few drops of lavender essential oil to your bath for a calming and stress-relieving soak.

Muscle-Soothing Bath with Essential Oils: Draw a warm bath and add Epsom salts, a carrier oil (like almond oil or jojoba oil), and a few drops of muscle-relaxing essential oils like peppermint or rosemary.

Bonus Tips:

Set the mood with calming music and flickering candles.

Light aromatherapy diffusers with relaxing scents like lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood.

Make yourself a cup of herbal tea to sip on during your treatment.

Don't forget to pamper your nails with a DIY manicure or pedicure.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you started. With a little creativity, you can create a luxurious and relaxing spa experience at home using ingredients you might already have on hand. Enjoy your DIY spa day! Want to dive more into this topic? Watch How to bring *luxury* into your life while on a budget

[vidhyateckey12]

Skin Bliss: Lemon Essential Oil Benefits

Are you seeking a natural solution to enhance the health and appearance of your skin? Look no further than lemon essential oil! Derived from the zest of fresh lemons, this fragrant oil packs a powerful punch when it comes to skincare. Let's dive deeper into the world of lemon essential oil and explore its remarkable benefits for your skin.

Unveiling the Marvels of Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil isn't just a delightful scent; it's a potent elixir for your skin. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and antibacterial properties, this citrus extract offers a wide array of benefits that can transform your skincare routine.

Lemon Essential Oil Benefits for Skin

Combating Acne: Lemon essential oil's antimicrobial properties make it an effective weapon against acne-causing bacteria. It helps unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts, promoting clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Brightening Dull Complexions: Say goodbye to lacklustre skin! Lemon essential oil contains natural compounds that gently exfoliate the skin, sloughing away dead cells and revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion underneath.

Balancing Oil Production: If you struggle with oily skin, lemon essential oil can be a game-changer. Its astringent properties help regulate sebum production, keeping excess oil in check without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.

Fading Dark Spots: Sunspots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation don't stand a chance against lemon essential oil. With regular use, it can help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone, restoring a youthful glow to your complexion.

Refreshing and Revitalising: The invigorating scent of lemon essential oil not only uplifts your mood but also refreshes and rejuvenates your skin, leaving it feeling revitalised and energised.

Incorporating Lemon Essential Oil Into Your Skincare Routine

There are countless ways to harness the benefits of lemon essential oil in your skincare regimen:

Facial Cleanser: Add a few drops of lemon essential oil to your daily cleanser to enhance its purifying and clarifying properties.

Toner: Create your own DIY toner by mixing lemon essential oil with witch hazel or rose water to tighten pores and refresh your skin.

Moisturiser Booster: Mix a drop or two of lemon essential oil into your moisturiser for an extra boost of hydration and brightening benefits.

Body Scrub: Combine lemon essential oil with sugar or salt to create an invigorating body scrub that buffs away dead skin cells and leaves your skin silky smooth.

Choosing the Best Lemon Essential Oil

When shopping for lemon essential oil, opt for high-quality, organic options like those offered by Moana Essentials. Look for oils that are cold-pressed and free from additives or synthetic fragrances to ensure purity and potency.

Elevate Your Skincare Routine with Lemon Essential Oil

Ready to experience the transformative effects of lemon essential oil on your skin? Embrace the power of nature and enhance your skincare routine with Moana Essentials' premium lemon essential oil. Discover the joy of radiant, healthy-looking skin and embrace a more natural approach to beauty today!

Shop Now and embark on your journey to skin bliss with Moana Essentials' lemon essential oil!

[moanaessentials]

The Ultimate Guide to Lemon Essential Oil: Health, Home, and Beyond

In the world of skincare, there's a plethora of products promising to transform your skin, but sometimes the best solutions are found in nature itself. Lemon essential oil, derived from the peel of the citrus fruit, has been cherished for centuries for its myriad benefits, particularly for the skin. Let's delve into the wonders of lemon essential oil and how it can revitalize and rejuvenate your skin.

Understanding Lemon Essential Oil

Before we dive into its benefits, let's understand what lemon essential oil is all about. This potent oil is extracted from the peel of fresh lemons through a process of cold-pressing. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and other beneficial nutrients, lemon essential oil boasts a refreshing citrus scent and a plethora of skincare benefits.

The Benefits of Lemon Essential Oil for Skin

Antioxidant Powerhouse: Lemon essential oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which help combat free radicals that can damage the skin and accelerate aging.

Natural Astringent: Thanks to its astringent properties, lemon essential oil helps tighten and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and promoting a smoother complexion.

Brightens Skin: The natural bleaching properties of lemon essential oil can help lighten dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars, resulting in a brighter, more even skin tone.

Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells: Lemon essential oil contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that gently exfoliate the skin, sloughing away dead skin cells and revealing a fresher, more radiant complexion.

Controls Oil Production: If you struggle with oily skin, lemon essential oil can help regulate sebum production, keeping excess oil at bay and preventing breakouts.

Fights Acne: Its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties make lemon essential oil effective in fighting acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and preventing future breakouts.

Promotes Healing: Lemon essential oil can help speed up the skin's healing process, making it beneficial for treating minor cuts, wounds, and insect bites.

Soothes Irritation: Whether you're dealing with sunburn, eczema, or other forms of irritation, lemon essential oil's soothing properties can provide relief and promote healing.

Incorporating Lemon Essential Oil Into Your Skincare Routine

Now that you're aware of the benefits and safety precautions, here are some ways to incorporate lemon essential oil into your skincare routine:

DIY Facial Toner: Mix a few drops of lemon essential oil with witch hazel and water to create a refreshing facial toner that helps tighten pores and brighten the skin.

Brightening Face Mask: Combine lemon essential oil with honey and yogurt to create a brightening face mask that helps fade dark spots and rejuvenate the skin.

Spot Treatment: Dab a diluted mixture of lemon essential oil onto acne spots to help heal blemishes and reduce inflammation.

Body Scrub: Mix lemon essential oil with sugar and coconut oil to create an invigorating body scrub that exfoliates and nourishes the skin.

Aromatherapy: Add a few drops of lemon essential oil to your bathwater for a revitalizing soak that uplifts the senses and nourishes the skin.

Conclusion

Lemon essential oil is a versatile and potent ingredient that offers a wide range of benefits for the skin. From its antioxidant properties to its ability to brighten, tone, and heal, incorporating lemon essential oil into your skincare routine can help you achieve a radiant and healthy complexion. Just remember to use it safely and responsibly to reap its full rewards.

[kingdom-uk]

Vegan body scrub uk  with vegan exfoliating body scrub is great for weekly use.

When it comes to skincare, many people are turning to vegan body scrub uk for their natural and cruelty-free benefits. In the UK, the demand for vegan body scrub uk has been steadily increasing as more individuals are becoming conscious of the products they use on their skin. A vegan exfoliating body scrub is a product that is free from any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. It is made using only plant-based and organic ingredients, ensuring that no harm is done to animals during its production. Body scrub vegan provide gentle exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated. If you're looking for a homemade vegan body scrub, there are plenty of options available. One popular DIY vegan body scrub recipe involves combining ingredients such as coconut oil, sugar or salt, and essential oils like lavender or citrus. This simple yet effective combination provides excellent exfoliation while nourishing your skin with natural moisturizers with homemade vegan body scrub. By opting for a vegan body scrub in the UK, you not only take care of your skin but also contribute to a more sustainable and ethical beauty industry. So why not give it a try? Your skin will thank you! If you're looking for a vegan body scrub in the UK, you've come to the right place. Vegan exfoliating body scrub are becoming increasingly popular as people are becoming more conscious about the products they use on their skin and the impact it has on animals and the environment with a Body scrub vegan. A vegan body scrub uk is a product that is free from any animal-derived ingredients and has not been tested on animals. It is made using plant-based ingredients that provide gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated with a Body scrub vegan. While there are many vegan body scrubs available in stores, making your own DIY vegan body scrub can be a fun and cost-effective option. By using simple ingredients found in your kitchen, you can create a homemade vegan body scrub tailored to your specific needs. Whether you prefer a sugar-based scrub for gentle exfoliation or a salt-based scrub for deeper cleansing, there are plenty of recipes available online to suit every skin type. From adding essential oils for aromatherapy benefits to incorporating nourishing ingredients like coconut oil or avocado, DIY vegan body scrub allow you to customize your skincare routine while being kind to animals and the environment for a Vegan exfoliating body scrub. So why not give it a try? Explore the world of vegan body scrubs in the UK or create your own homemade vegan body scrub.- either way, you'll be treating yourself to a cruelty-free and sustainable skincare experience with a DIY vegan body scrub. https://handmadefever.co.uk/product/smell-of-the-tropics-exfoliating-and-shimmering-body-scrub/ https://handmadefever.co.uk/product/vanilla-exfoliating-and-shimmering-body-scrub/ Read the full article

[winkcore]

curly hair maintenance

୨୧ satin or silk pillow case and hair bonnet / wrap

୨୧ deep condition & scalp treat before you wash your hair

୨୧ microfiber hair towel

୨୧ curl cream, gel, foil, scrunch and diffuse

୨୧ trim off split ends

୨୧ dry shampoo roots and oil ends

୨୧ be gentle with your hair

୨୧ feed it positive thoughts, affirmation & nutrition

୨୧ do scalp massages for a minimum of 5 minutes

୨୧ have a minimum of 50g of protein a day

diy lip scrub

୨୧ use peppermint or cinnamon oil

୨୧ use an antioxidant like strawberry or blueberry

୨୧ use a bit of citrus

୨୧ use aloe vera

୨୧ use vitamin e gel capsules

୨୧ use almond oil, brown sugar and honey

୨୧ scrub it in circular motions

୨୧ rinse with warm water

.♡ have an iron rich diet for red flushed lips

. ♡ include vitamin C to absorb the iron

. ♡ drink 8 glasses of water a day

. ♡ use spf lip balms

. ♡ massage lips with a washcloth

[atinycupofpositivitea]

Day 20/100 of the gratefulness journey

Today's little things that I'm happy about:

- Felt grateful for a splendid morning with my so

- Sent an application within a very fast period of time

- Joined a meeting for my online course, it felt really nice to be part of it, I will complete it this Saturday but I know I'll keep it in my heart forever.

- Had some good exchanges with my brother, as I don't have a great relationship with my family, it's nice that I can at least talk to him

- Streamed for a couple of hours, it was very fun and I met new people

- Listened to some nice music with friends

- Joined a movie night and watched the Kronk's New groove. Awesome and wholesome movie!

- Read some helpful articles about job hunting

- Proofread a text for a friend

- Got texted by a couple of friends, it was very wholesome

- Made myself a DIY scrub with coconut oil and sugar. Everytime I do it I feel amazing under the shower, and plus the skin stays moisturised for 24h!

- Made myself some citrus flavoured tea in the morning (I love it!) and ate some biscuits that my dad used to love when he was a kid

- Felt very grateful and loving towards my partner. I even sent them a song that reminded me of them~

- Took a rest day from working out and took care of my thighs as they were very sore

- Felt grateful for what I have and the people surrounding me

- Was overall pretty positive during the day despite the negative atmosphere in my house. I worked very hard to focus on my schedule and I pursued my goals. I'm very proud of me~

[essentialoilsareworthit]

Lime Essential Oil Blends

Uses and Benefits of Lime Oil

Lime essential oil is widely used as an interior cleaner because of its cleansing characteristics. Lime oil may help boost healthy immunological function. Consider adding a drop or two of lime oil to your water glass or water bottle to enhance the flavor and provide antioxidant support when you wish to reap these internal advantages. You may also add a drop of Lemon and a drop of Lime oil to your water for a refreshing, sweet flavor that isn't carbonated or sugary.

Looking for a tasty side dish to provide at your next gathering? Lime oil is also a great way to jazz up maize. Check out our essential oil recipe for Grilled Corn, which uses lime oil, cilantro, garlic, and cayenne pepper to transform conventional corn on the cob into your new favorite snack. Try our Spicy Sweet Potato Fries with Avocado Lime Dip if you're looking for a guilt-free side dish. This one-of-a-kind essential oil concoction is ideal for your next movie night, birthday celebration, or family get-together.

  Lime essential oil has a tangy, citrus aroma in addition to a sweet flavor. This scent is ideal for brightening a space or making your home feel clean and fresh. Try our Spring Fling Room Spray DIY to bring the scent of lime oil into your home. Simply blend Lemon, Grapefruit, and Lime oil with distilled water in a glass spray bottle and spray around your home or any other area that could benefit from a more cheery aroma.

Lime oil is your new best buddy if you like fruity or sweet drinks. Lime essential oil will give your favorite slushies, smoothies, or drinks a tangy, naturally sweet flavor. Try our Non-Alcoholic Cranberry & Lime Spritzer for a refreshing drink on a hot summer day. It's made with just four basic ingredients and has a one-of-a-kind flavor. Make a batch of this Raspberry Limeade for another easy lime drink. This refreshing summertime classic is plenty of flavor without the additional sugars and preservatives found in store-bought lemonades.

Lime essential oil has cleansing effects that can be used for internal cleansing* or cleaning the house, but it can also be used to purify the skin and hair. To reap the benefits of enhanced cleansing capabilities, add one or two drops of Lime essential oil to your face wash or shampoo. To use lime oil on your hair, simply mix it with a few drops of Melaleuca and massage your scalp in the shower. Try our Ginger Lime Brown Sugar Scrub when you wish to apply Lime essential oil on your skin. This face scrub is simple to prepare at home and will leave your skin feeling smoother and more exfoliated.

Adding a sour, sweet flavor to foods like chicken is perhaps one of the most prevalent uses for lime fruit. This is also true of Lime essential oil, which may be used to give flavor to any bland meal. These Lime Chicken Tacos are a wonderful variation on a classic favorite, with sweet and salty flavors erupting from every bite. Check out our Honey Lime Chicken Wings if you're seeking for another way to integrate Lime essential oil into your supper preparations. This essential oil recipe has plenty of kick, thanks to Gya Labs Lime oil, soy sauce, Tabasco sauce, garlic, and more. It'll quickly become a summertime favorite to make on the barbecue.

 There are numerous advantages of diffusing Lime essential oil because of its distinct and invigorating aroma. Lime oil's energizing characteristics might help to lift one's spirits when diffused. Lime oil promotes well-being and emotional equilibrium, so it's a wonderful idea to diffuse it on days when you need to center and balance your emotions, or if you're not feeling well.

   Gya labs Lime essential oil, like Lemon oil, is useful for cleaning. Lime oil can be used in a variety of cleaning applications, including removing sticky messes, cleaning countertops, and purifying your hands. Lime essential oil can be used to eliminate grease stains or residue left behind by stickers when you're left with a sticky, goopy, or oily mess. Simply apply a few drops of lime oil to a cotton pad and gently rub the sticky area until the residue or spot has vanished. Try our DIY Dish Soap with Lime and Lemon to keep your dishes extra clean (and smelling great). This combo will leave your kitchen smelling wonderful while also shining your dishes.

 The key lime (the same fruit that produces Lime essential oil) has earned a lot of fame for its usage in Key lime pie, despite its numerous other uses. Lime flavor can be used to give zing to weekday dinners or sweetness to our favourite drinks, but it's also a popular dessert flavor. Take a look at our recipe for Citrus Coconut Popsicles if you're searching for a fun way to use Lime essential oil. These delectable frozen citrus morsels are ideal for when you want a cool treat on a hot summer night.Consider making this Key Lime Pie Parfait, which combines the tastes of honey, yogurt, lime, and granola to create a simple yet popular dessert.

You can find us here.

[sunset-sugar]

Skincare Tips for Sugaring (or whatever honestly) #1

Scrubs!

This one needs its own post because omg do I see SO MUCH bad information on these 🤦🏻‍♀️

1. Use scrubs VERY sparingly! If at all!

For the body, scrubs can be a good way to get rid of dry or dead skin. For the face however, chemical exfoliators are the more gentle way to go. Not that you necessarily /need/ to use an exfoliator, but if you’re looking for one I would recommend a gentle chemical exfoliator over a facial scrub.

2. Do NOT use scrubs that contain large particles like walnut or coconut shells, cocoa bean pieces, etc. these can cause microabrasions in the skin that do more harm than good. INSTEAD- use sugar scrubs. The particles are much smaller, dissolvable, and generally accomplish what most people are looking for with a physical exfoliator. I use a sugar scrub with coconut oil on my legs in the shower and I’ve gotten multiple comments on how soft it makes my skin.

3. Please do not make one of those ~**~*DIY skincare hacks*~*~ scrubs with sugar and lemon. As a rule- NEVER put pure lemon or any citrus juice on your skin. That shit is way too acidic and will just irritate your skin. If you’re looking for a routine that will make your skin look more healthy or glowing, start with a solid moisturizer and cleansing routine. Once you’re there and familiar with your skins needs, then branch out into other products you might need. Don’t spend money if you don’t need to!

Disclaimer!! I’m not a skincare expert, dermatologist, or esthetician- just an enthusiast. Please take any advice you hear with a grain of salt and remember that everyone has different skin needs/issues.

[autumnmariegrim]

The Dangers Of DIY Skincare:

1. Witch hazel: An anti-inflammatory commonly used as the main ingredient in DIY astringents. What most people don't know is that witch hazel is usually distilled by alcohol and or immersed in it to preserve it and can literally tear apart the skin's hydration barrier. Which leads dry and flaky skin.The natural fragrance in witch hazel is eugenol, a potent irritant. So if you have sensitive skin watch out.

2. Lemons: No more lemons! This citrus fruit is the star of DIY beauty projects, most dermatologists dread. Lemons have a pH of about 2 and when used on skin, ruins it’s natural pH balance of 4 - 5. Dermatologist don’t recommend using pure lemon juice on your face or used as an ingredient in diy projects, because it has to be mixed with the correct acids, chemicals, and other ingredients for the skin to truly benefit from it. Lemons are way too acidic and literally eat away at the skins protective barriers. Lemons also make skin more prone to the suns harmful rays, leading to blistering or terrible discoloration that can last for months.

3. Mayonnaise: It is in no way beneficial for your skin. Mayo consists mainly of oil and fat, causing cyst-like acne and clogging pores. These oils and fats found in mayonnaise encourage bacteria to grow; Supported by Dr. Rebecca Tung, dermatologist at Loyola University. However it does benefit the hair by hydrating, diminishing dead ends, and killing lice. So to sum this up: DONT USE. DONT EVEN DIY SKIN CARE IF YOU DONT KNOW WHAT YOUR DOING. It’s always best to do extensive research and consult a doctor before DIYing.

4. Eggs for tightening skin: The proteins in egg whites do improve skin tone and elasticity. Many Spas peovide facial treatments using egg whites.They increase glow and minimize fine lines — however when doing your own be cautious! Egg whites not only can contain salmonella(bacteria that causes deadly food poisoning).If by chance you happen to ingest raw egg while administrating it on your face, it will (80% of the time)contaminate your body, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and other painful symptoms. So, unless your willing to risk it, it’s best to avoid accidental ingestion by not doing DIY raw egg masks at all. It can contaminate you if it enters your eyes and nose as well.

5. Apple cider vinager used as a natural deodorant: OTC deodorants often are avoided because of their potential risk in causing breast cancer due to the ingredient aluminum chloride . Most if not all scientists have yet to discover data that links the two. Despite that, people continue creating DIY deodorants out of apple cider vinegar in an attempt to deccease their chances of getting breast cancer. Even I use all natural deoderant. Apple cider vinegar’s main utilization is using it as a base, due to the fact that it kills yeast and bacteria linked to B.O. Its know to absorb/neutralize displeasing scents. It shouldn’t be completely shunned from using on skin, the main problem is that it’s not an easy smell to mask, it’s ability to neutralize other cents does not last long, and it kills good bacteria. Adding essential oils, in an attempt to mask the smell does little to nothing in solving that dilemma. Additionally, it's in no way stops sweat. Summary: it isn’t bad for the skin it just doesn’t smell good or prevent even the smallest amount of sweat from forming and doesn’t last long at all regarding its ability to absorb other smells, rendering it useless. It’s best used as a primer befor applying natural, aluminum free deodorant. Some natural deodorants include: • Dr Teal's Aluminum Free Deodorant with Eucalyptus, is Paraben & Phthalate Free. Priced at a mear 13.95$ found on amazon. ( containing an actually decent amount unlike the deodorants sold at Sephora that come with the smallest ,short term use, deodorants. The are healthy but not worth the price). • Native Deodorant - Natural Deodorant - Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty Free - Free of Aluminum, Parabens & Sulfates, made in the USA and contains coconut and vanilla. Giving it a wonderfully sweet smell. Priced at 11.95$ found on amazon. • Old Spice Aluminum Free Deodorant for Men, Aqua Reef Scent. Priced at 14.97$ for a 3 oz ,3 pack on amazon. What a deal! • Kopari Coconut Deodorant. Priced at 14$ on Sephora. Their Gardenia scented deodorant is amazing . I own it. For me it really works and contains charcoal, cleansing your pores of toxins. I find myself having to reapply it half way through the day, on those extra sweaty days or after working out. The wonderful benefits of its ingredients are so worth it! • lululemons anti-stink deoderant. Spray on to avoid bacteria growth in the deoderant. Priced at 18$ on Sephora.

6. Cinnamon as a face scrub: It wreaks havoc on your skin . Causing irritation, blisters, and in some cases, burn scars. When ingested in large amounts daily, cinnamon can and does cause low blood sugar, increases risk of cancer, mouth sores, liver damage, breathing problems, and interacts with certain medications negatively. So try to stay away from ingesting large amounts of cinnamon and or using it in your amature DIY skincare routine. If you don’t know the science behind and chemical interactions of what your doing , don’t do it! Cinnamon in small amounts is plentiful in benefits when mixed with the correct ingredients at the right amounts. So many, infact, that I won’t list them.

7. Hydrogen peroxide on the skin: Everyones go-to product for cleaning small wounds. While it does a great job of cleansing/ closing wounds, it is known to be toxic on skin when used in amounts higher than 3%.If you apply it repetitively on a wound , the wound and the surrounding skin area won't heal . Your actually causing damage to the skin. So do not use your house hold hydrogen peroxide for skincare DIY’s unless you are a specialist that knows what you are doing.

When used occasionally,treats minor cases of:

•burns

•cuts

•infections

•scrapes

•seborrheic keratosis

Medical professionals cease to utilize this acid as a disinfecting agent because hydrogen peroxide damages essential cells needed for healing the affected area. A 2012 study showed negative side effect of using hydrogen peroxide on the skin. Tested on mice (sadly).

It’s said that its wound healing effects may be useful in treating acne and other skin issues, such as hyperpigmentation. However it’s dangers out way any potential benefits it may have on the skin. It can cause:

•dermatitis (eczema)

•burns

•blisters

•hives

•redness

•itchiness and irritation

It not only harms the skin, hydrogen peroxide causes:

•toxicity or fatality when inhaled at large amounts or swallowed in both small and large amounts.

•a potentially higher risk of cancer and

damage to your eyes

•internal organ damage

More serious risks occur when it is used long term and regularly.

If you must, when lightening skin use a concentration between 20 and 30 percent for results. (Or just use a Tamato. Tomato’s slowly but surely lighten skin and are safe to use!)However it is higher than the recommended use of only 3 percent on skin. Running the risk of burns and scars rather than obtaining any actual skin brightening effects. If you are in dire need of affordable skin brightening products try : •niacinamide 10% by the ordinary. Niacinamide is known for its potent ability to protect your skin from air pollutants, oxidants, and free radicals . Which is why I am purchasing it when I get my next pay check!

There are many more DIY DONTs than DOs. For your short term and long term skin health it’s best to invest in the right products that tackle what you need/want. If you must DIY then use light, healthy, and certified skin safe ingredients. Also be sure to read the ingredients of every product you buy. There are many things you should avoid. Check my previous posts to figure out what you should and should not find in care products. Check out my post Finding the right Deoderant for a list of more natural ingredients that can be used for more than just deodorants.

[antigenius]

Aaaaah your skincare hc 💜 i'm dealing with some really bad acne rn and reading that was amazing. Can you write skincare hcs for 1a girls too? (And also the best girl hatsume mei if it's not too much) 💖

OMIGOD FIRST REQUEST BSDJJRJTJ YOU GOT IT BBY LETS GO-

Toru:

I got her hcs while I was in the shower coincidentally enough.

Okay surprisingly for someone who you can't see, she really REALLY cares about her looks. It's really sad but she's actually super insecure despite being invisible

Loves any sort of face mask that has animals or cute things on it!! Cute, cute, cute!! She especially loves those little fruit shaped masks that you slap on different parts of your face like hgsvgbd please-

Actually has really oily skin, which is purely the cause of her insecurities. Someone please compliment this girl on her skin for gosh sakes-

Uses foam and oil cleansers to gently try and control her acne. Then uses a really light daycream with included sun protection when it's both day and night. She uses it at night because she gets scared that her night cream will be too much for her face. Better to go lighter.

OH MY GOD SHE LOVES HOT SPRINGS. P L E A S E. She enjoyed the camp so much because it made her pores open up and made it easier to clean!!

Uses those peel off pore masks on her nose, chin and upper lip. Hurts her sometimes, you can usually see her cry a bit when she takes them off.

Uses tweezers to clean up her eyebrows and upper lip. Hurts a lot, but she manages. Puts aloe vera after.

Detoxing is important! Sometimes she goes on a vegan diet for a week so that her acne gets a bit better. Only drinks water during that time too!

UGH GET THIS GIRL SOME PINK GRAPEFRUIT BODY SCRUB AND SHE'LL LITERALLY LOVE YOU FOREVER JUST OMG G R A P E F R U I T

In general she enjoys smelling like things you can eat! Mainly fruits, so Toru generally smells like berries or citrus.

Uses a stick deodorant that's organic. Hates the feeling of clinical deodorants.

Ajdjsjjjf acne needles? Yes. She uses them. Doesn't wanna get acne scars and this is more hygienic than actually popping pimples with your fingers. She really takes great care when it comes to her skin.

Ochaco:

Ochaco is literally me when I spent all my money on food :')

Cheap as hell. Obviously. This means CHEAP BEAUTY HACKS!

Ochaco has normal skin thankfully enough, but she does get some bad days with acne. Happens.

Cheap means you make your own stuff. Instead of buying exfoliating scrubs, Ochaco makes her own by buying oatmeal, apples, raw honey, cinnamon, and lemon juice. She puts this all in a food processor, letting it become a thick paste. Before she puts it on her face, she puts in a bit of sugar and tada!!! Smooth, soft, baby skin!

Another thing she makes is cucumber and banana ice-cubes for her dark eyebags. She grabs some cucumber, mushes it half a banana and then puts them into an ice-tray. Then whenever she has dark eyebags, she busts out these bad boys and voìla!

Is a hoe for 5 minute-crafts stuff. They're usually cheap and work for her really well, so now she heccing worships it like a g O d.

Doesn't really understand makeup? She might only use some eyeshadow and eyeliner. Possibly chapstick if she has some.

Makes her own lipscrubs though! Sugar and honey make a beautiful scrub for her lips, she rubs and licks it off happily to reveal velvet, plush lips ready for kissing! ;)

Really good at making cute diy beauty stuff!! She once made this clear lip balm that had a dry flower inside. She actually sold some! She was so proud of herself.

Oh gosh if you give Ochaco expensive Burberry Her perfume that smells sweet and sugary she will cry because she is so grateful for that. It's her FAVOURITE smell. Otherwise, she smells like faint roses.

Uses spray deodorant on hot days and stick deodorant on cold days. Spray deodorant is such a perk up when she's been sweating from training.

If there's a sale on skincare products, you'd best believe Ochaco sits there in the morning in front of the shop to get all the best stuff first. She will actually kill someone if that try and take the last item on the shelf which is on sale, especially if it's like 50% off. She'd tear some limbs. O_o

Prefers liquid soap over soap bars, but buys soap bars more often because they're cheaper and easier to stock. Just please get her some moderately priced things god this girl NEEDS PAMPERING OKAY???

Momo:

Bro you know how gay I am for this girl like dude I LOVE HER OKAY???

Completely and utterly clueless when it comes to skincare.

Never gets acne??? Like ever??? I'm so jealous it's SO UNFAIR. Does get dry skin though.

Uses those 24 carat gold face masks because they look pretty and make her face freakin GLOW LIKE A GODDESS.

Uses peel off masks, but more for dead skin. Hurts much less and she just heccing emits rays of sunlight.

Uses sunscreen a lot though. She's really prone to getting sunburnt, and she can't get a tan, which makes her kinda sad. Cancer is too scary to get a tan over.

Likes body and hand creams too much for her own good. Has a whole collection of them which all have a variety of smells and textures so her body and hands and just her skin is normally soft and silky and just hafdjskrjkt-

Has to use coffee scrubs and body oil since she has stretch marks from developing super fast. She's really insecure about it and hates that part of herself a lot tbh. Please praise her I beg you.

Loves to sit in a hot bath with rose petals. Spa treatment is all he knows about skincare really.

Has like four perfumes she normally uses. One is a sweet smelling perfume that has soft sugary notes that make you drool. The second smells like delicate roses with dewdrops from the morning mist. The second smells like berries and forests, as if you're about to pick some yourself. The last one smells like the pandan leaves with mangoes. Basically, Momo smells like paradise.

Actually loves buying cheap lip-glosses and lipsticks!! Her favourite is this shimmery golden lipgloss which changes colour depending on the light that she's in. Only uses it on very special occasions though. Otherwise, her best one is usually a moderately red lipstick or a cute red tinted lipgloss which just slightly colours her lips. Makes her lips so adorably kissable. (I'm gay for her okay shut up-)

Okay, we all know for a fact Momo be thicc. But she doesn't really like it honestly. Her thicc comes from cellulite and it's so gross to her. Uses a stiff, dry brush to move the fat around a by so she's more evened out in thiccness.

Mina:

Pink alien queen!

Acid comes out of her skin daily, this means really dry skin. Dry like sometimes peel off dry. It's really bad.

Just like Toru, really cares about skincare. Although a little less than Toru but still.

Toners are her best friends because her pores sometimes open up due to her quirk. Acid can damage them sometimes too, so mild, hydrating toners are great for skin like her's.

HAND CREAM AAAAAAAAAAA

Whilst she isn't rich enough to have a bunch of handcream like Momo, she has this specific handcream that smells like candy and marshmallows. It's. So. Good. Also makes her hands soft and silky like gahdhhd-

Cream is also a good friend of hers. Uses both night and day cream to make sure her skin stays plump and hydrated!

Uses potato slices instead of cucumbers so that her dark eyebags aren't too bad. She normally doesn't get em so this rarely happens.

Also uses lots of vanilla and almond body cream. Soft and silky skin that can make anyone want to hug her. (IM SO GAY SHUT UP)

Uses lip masks! Loves those Korean or Japanese candy ones! They really leave her lips luscious for any kisses!

Speaking about Korean and Japanese stuff, SHE ADORES THEM.

Korean stuff the most! They always provide her with great results, so they're her go to when she has a really dry day. Loves using their hydration masks!

Uses lip tattoos because she hates the feeling of lipgloss or lipstick. Plus, it doesn't leave a mark.

Mina also thicc, but she's more of a muscular thicc than fat thicc. This means she needs to use body oil to make sure her thighs and skin are tight and smooth.

She uses lasers to get rid of her hairs. Somehow her hairs are immune to her acid. She uses laser treatment to make sure she doesn't have to deal with it often. You wouldn't even know she has hair tbh because of the treatment.

Mina smells like coconuts and sea-salt with a hint of lime or mint depending on her mood. She smells like what'd you smell in a 5 star island resort as you walk on the white sandy beaches and sit in the bar watching the sunset go down on the horizon just hhh-

Feet are baby smooth?? Dunno why. They're just naturally soft and beautiful and shfhd when she rubs her feet against your legs it's so soft it's like she rubbed petals on your legs-

Speaking about petals! She loves having baths with either bubbles or petals with some candles to calm down. Definitely after a hard day of training!! Don't disturb!

Tsu:

I CAN'T DO MUCH FOR TSU IM SORRY

Tsu literally doesn't use skin items at all.

She has a normal skin type and also never gets acne somehow???? Like bro hecc tell me your ways.

She's not clueless about it like Momo, but she just has no use for it since her skin's just kinda perfect like hello what-

She is a frog though, so she really need that moisture!! Jacuzzi baths are like her favourite thing.

Ooh, also really likes those clay masks! That's the only skincare item she actually uses to be real with y'all.

Okay okay hear me out though, Tsu is a hoe for those kiddie slime baths. Like I'm not even kidding she loves it so hecking much but she would never admit it in any lifetime.

Also really loves it if you get her a whole big bag of those resin pellets that turn into those little jelly balls and she just goes into a bath of those??? Gosh yes paradise hecc

Smells like a dewy forest with hints of citrus and earthy tones. She's got that scent that's really unique and like you can walk by with a blindfold and point her out by smell alone.

Oops by the way she really enjoys having cucumbers on her eyes. She has natural eyebags, so she normally counters it with both cucumber and potato slices.

There's a secret tradition that runs in her family to get rid of wrinkles. They steam a small, knobbly hand towel with warm water and then rub it in circular motions on their face slowly going upwards. Works really heccing well.

Honestly, Tsu doesn't really care about her looks. Skincare or makeup for her is just an additional bother that she has to deal with.

Her skin is never pruney. Makes sense why though.

Mei:

Eyy because you asked so nicely! Tbh to me Camie from Shiketsu is best girl but like okay Mei is qt-

She's always covered in grime and dirt, so she actually gets acne daily. She just has really great skin routines!

Has a combination skin type, her forehead is the oiliest compared with the rest of her far though. Yuck.

When she stops tinkering (haha when does she do that-), she immediately goes and washes her face with an oil face wash. It helps properly cleanse her pores from all the grime and dirt that was on her face.

Sometimes, she has a really grimy day, so she uses a harsh clay wash just to make sure EVERYTHING IS OUT. Then uses a hydrating toner and a very light daycream!

Exfoliates every two weeks to make sure her skin isn't gross. Skin cells need to turn over every two weeks, so she makes sure she does that or she'll literally have pimples scattered on her forehead.

Is a popper. She hates seeing pimples and immediately pops them on site with some gloves. Then puts a miniscule dab of antiseptic cream so that it don't come back and spread.

Mei smells like petrol. Literally. When she stays out of the lab for a week though, she actually smells like caramel and cotton candy.

Has calluses on her from tinkering so much. She doesn't like it. Please trace and caress them gently and she'll love you.

She uses body oil because it feels more normal than body cream. Can lead her to being clumsy because she sometimes sloshes it on her body and then she has to wait a while before she can actually do things.

Salt block. Hates deodorant. Masks the smell of grime in the lab and she LIVES for that smell.

Uses charcoal face masks to relax and detox. Helps her think of her next baby to create as well, so bonus!

Likes going to those floating pods. They're really relaxing and make her feel at ease in the world.

Bubble baths are a no no. She had a really bad experience with them once when she tried to make a bubble telescope and put it to her eye. Let's just say she used to be able to see farther…

She enjoys using lipgloss though! Her lips smell like cake or cookie dough even though they're normally coloured in a neutral pink or a soft red. Even tastes like strawberries and cream.

Takes hecking great care of her hands. Her hands are meticulously the most gorgeous part of her. They're soft, velvety, and while they are callused, it only adds to its perfections and they're just so stunningly manicured and she does it all by herself like oh my god her hands are just bdbdkfgjfk-

Since anon has some bad acne, I actually have some advice since I myself care a heck ton about my skin.

Oil based face wash goes incredibly well with a foam cleanser. Using both gets rid of all the dirt, oil, makeup and residue in your pores. Best stuff and keeps me clear.

EXFOLIATE PLEASE!! Get one of those cute exfoliating scrubs or literally make the one Ochaco uses. They're really important to do because your dead skin cells can cause more acne and bumps.

When you have bad acne, I suggest using only light daycreams after you wash your face because night creams can be too much. Also use a nice organic toner so that your pores are tight and can't get much dirt or gross things during the day/night.

Charcoal is the best face mask for detoxing and decreasing oil levels. But don't use it when you have pimples. It can actually cause more pimples to come because you're stripping your ace of the natural oils it needs.

That said, make sure to wash your face at least twice a day! Thrice is okay too, but four is too much. Make sure to moisturise immediately after too!

Sunscreen is so important. Get yourself a face cream that has at least an SPF of 30. Please. Cancer is real and the sun's rays can make you seem to age faster.

Woof, that was a loooot. Next time, please be specific with characters anon! I didn't mind, but I normally only do about 3 characters. I'm not doing much yet so this is cool but yeah. Thank you so much for requesting though and ACKEJKRKN YOU'RE A CUTIE ILY THANK YOU FOR LOVING MY WORK!!

I also realised I missed out Jiro T_T I might edit her in later but really I found her and Tsu the hardest to talk about skincare with because they're my really girls who care about how they look. They're just cuties.

[peace-coast-island]

Diary of a Junebug

Trying out bath bombs!

Lately I’ve been really into Cosmo Cosmetics’s how it’s made videos. There’s something entertaining about watching the process of making bath bombs, sugar scrubs, shampoo bars, and soaps. It’s also fun learning about the ingredients they use - which are all natural by the way. Watching the process and the product come together is also fascinating as it makes you appreciate the work they put in making their products.

While binging on their videos, I came across a vlog series by Melodie Mixx where she recreates various Cosmo products, mainly their bath bombs. She tries to stick to their original formula but makes adjustments so the DIYs would be more accessible to make at home. What I love about her videos is that she always has cool science facts to go along with her DIYs as she’s a bit of a science nerd as well as chemist.

Inspired by her videos, I decided to try making bath bombs. Some of the ingredients were a bit hard to get - especially the good quality ones - as well as pricey, but I figured that it’ll be worth it if the bath bombs turn out well. Since this was my first time making a craft like this, I didn’t have high expectations so it wasn’t too surprising when my first attempt fell apart. Most of the ingredients were only sold in bulk so it was a good investment. It took a few tries but we finally got the hang of it!

We ended up trying out four bath bombs - an ambitious move. The original plan was to try out two - Lavender Galaxy and Chamomile Dreams - since they used the least ingredients that were the most accessible. After the success of those two, Zell and O’Hare felt a bit adventurous and wanted to try to make Citrus Sunset and Peachy Keen. Thanks to Isabelle’s fruit challenge, we had a lot of fruit lying around. We had to cut come corners, but the final products came out better than we expected! Not to mention that they smell amazing!

I think my favorite part was mixing everything together! It’s like a spa day for our hands! Putting them into molds and popping them out was a lot of fun too! Then comes putting the bath bombs in the water, a part I was looking forward too. I have to say, this was one of the most satisfying crafts I’ve ever done! From watching them fizz and dissolve in the water into a colorful and glittery pool, to their fragrance perfuming the air - I really wanted to step in the bowl!   

Now that we’ve got bath bombs, we decided to make tonight a spa night! I used Lavender Galaxy, which made the water look like a glittery purple galaxy! Lavender is one of my favorite scents and fragrance instantly transported me into a field full of flowers. I think being in a hot tub made it a lot more relaxing!  

Now we have a basket full of homemade bath bombs!

junebug|previous|ao3|next

[felicia-cat-hardy]

Scalp Exfoliation Tips For Your Healthiest Hair Ever

Raise your hand if you neglect your scalp during your skin and hair care routines (same). When you’re focusing on the health of your strands, the oiliness of your hair, and keeping your skin barrier intact, getting to the literal root of things can slip your mind. But experts say it’s definitely important to learn about scalp exfoliation in order to accomplish all of those goals.

It’s easy to forget this, but — even though it’s typically covered in hair — your scalp is part of your skin. So it’s also key to exfoliate it, as you do with your face, to stimulate circulation and slough off dead skin cells to keep everything fresh and healthy.

The same skin care rules basically apply to the area on top of your head. “With scalp exfoliation, you’re removing the residue from products used on hair and environmental debris,” says Bridgette Hill, a certified trichologist. Congestion and buildup can happen from everyday products like shampoo or styling creams. “The skin turns over on the scalp like it does on the rest of the body,” Dr. Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, says, adding that regular exfoliation keeps hair follicles from being clogged. To put it simply, Hill says to think of scalp exfoliators as cleansers — they go beyond traditional shampoos to target and cleanse the area. And when you have a healthy exfoliated scalp, you can expect thicker, healthier, and more hygienic hair.

To keep your strands in tip-top shape, here’s what the experts say on how to exfoliate your scalp.

We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Scalp?

Your scalp exfoliation routine all depends on your lifestyle and hair type. So frequency, according to Patel, could be as regular as every two weeks. New York City-based hairstylist and colorist Juliana Ohlmeyer echoes this as a good starting point. “Try exfoliating every other week and see if that helps,” she tells Bustle. “If your hair doesn’t improve, try once a week.” And, fun fact: Having an oily scalp doesn’t mean you need to exfoliate it more frequently, she says. This can lead to inflammation. “A dry scalp that gets flaky should also exfoliate about once every two weeks,” she says.

If you have sensitive skin or a condition like eczema, however, it’s best to consult an expert to determine the best regimen for you.

What Should You Use For Scalp Exfoliation?

There has been an uptick in scalp-specific hair care products in recent years, and these range from pre-shampoo oils, serums, or creams.

To find an appropriate scalp exfoliant, Hill and Patel recommend looking for ingredients that aid in cell turnover, reduce inflammation, and have anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Hill points to ingredients like citrus and rosemary, though tea tree oil and chemical exfoliants also do the job. You could also use a physical-based exfoliant (aka a scalp scrub) to scrub away buildup. Patel suggests formulas that use sugar or salt. Pro tip: Patel recommends adding a coarse salt or sugar to your shampoo to slough off dead skin cells.

You can also DIY a scalp scrub at home, with a few caveats. Patel suggests using African black soap because it has sulfur and ash, the latter of which is anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory. With your recipe, just be sure to avoid “coconut oil and olive oil on your scalp,” warns Patel. These can cause forehead acne and also increase the growth of microorganisms, which can lead to inflammation or even more oil production.

How Do You Exfoliate Your Scalp?

Now for the process itself. “Start by properly and liberally applying your selected oil, serum, scrub, or cream onto the scalp with your fingers and massage it in,” says Hill.

Once the product has been thoroughly massaged, you can reap more benefits by using a scalp brush. “When used with a proper [exfoliant], a brush increases circulation, cellular turnover, and stimulates the scalp to keep its muscles firing,” says Hill. So, basically, the bristles work to deliver more oxygen to your scalp, which feeds your hair and results in thicker, healthier strands. If you have straight to wavy hair, Hill recommends using the brush in circular motions, while wavy to tightly coiled hair should use half-moon shaped strokes. Either way, try doing the treatment for about five minutes for best results.

After you’re finished exfoliating, all you have to do is rinse and go on with the rest of your hair care routine. Keep scrolling to shop scalp exfoliators.

The Self-Care Buy

If you’ve ever run your comb against your scalp and thought, “How does this feel so good?” then treat yourself to this scalp massager. Aside from the euphoric feeling, the bristles help promote circulation for a healthier head of hair. This specific massager can also be used on a wet or dry scalp.

A Multitasking Serum

A skin care serum treats specific issues and goals. This product from Collective Laboratories does the exact same thing but for your hair. The serum stimulates circulation in the scalp, strengthens your strands, and balances oils thanks to its nourishing formula that includes ginseng and biotin.

A Celeb-Fave Scrub

Catherine Deneuve uses this salt scrub for her always lustrous and thick hair, so that really says it all. The Christophe Robin product is one of the mainstays of the category for good reason, and is perfect for those who like a gritty texture.

A Satisfyingly Fizzy Scalp Treatment

The texture of this Bumble & Bumble product is fizzy and foaming, which is immediately fun. But the formula is equally great: This pre-shampoo treatment only needs to be left in the hair for three minutes for the micellar water-based formula to take effect and remove your buildup.

Studies referenced:

Altuner, E. (2010). Investigation of Antifungal Activity of Ononis Spinosa L. Ash Used for the Therapy of Skin Infections as Folk Remedies. Mikrobiyoloji Bulteni. https://ift.tt/3or99Cp

Koyoma, T. (2016). Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue. Eplasty. https://ift.tt/2ycVILu

Trueb, R. (2018). Scalp Condition Impacts Hair Growth and Retention via Oxidative Stress. International Journal of Trichology. https://ift.tt/3uQkyhH

Experts:

Bridgette Hill, certified trichologist

Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist

Juliana Ohlmeyer, New York City-based hairstylist and colorist

Get Relationship Advice Here

[hoynovoy]

Scalp Exfoliation Tips For Your Healthiest Hair Ever

Raise your hand if you neglect your scalp during your skin and hair care routines (same). When you’re focusing on the health of your strands, the oiliness of your hair, and keeping your skin barrier intact, getting to the literal root of things can slip your mind. But experts say it’s definitely important to learn about scalp exfoliation in order to accomplish all of those goals.

It’s easy to forget this, but — even though it’s typically covered in hair — your scalp is part of your skin. So it’s also key to exfoliate it, as you do with your face, to stimulate circulation and slough off dead skin cells to keep everything fresh and healthy.

The same skin care rules basically apply to the area on top of your head. “With scalp exfoliation, you’re removing the residue from products used on hair and environmental debris,” says Bridgette Hill, a certified trichologist. Congestion and buildup can happen from everyday products like shampoo or styling creams. “The skin turns over on the scalp like it does on the rest of the body,” Dr. Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, says, adding that regular exfoliation keeps hair follicles from being clogged. To put it simply, Hill says to think of scalp exfoliators as cleansers — they go beyond traditional shampoos to target and cleanse the area. And when you have a healthy exfoliated scalp, you can expect thicker, healthier, and more hygienic hair.

To keep your strands in tip-top shape, here’s what the experts say on how to exfoliate your scalp.

We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Scalp?

Your scalp exfoliation routine all depends on your lifestyle and hair type. So frequency, according to Patel, could be as regular as every two weeks. New York City-based hairstylist and colorist Juliana Ohlmeyer echoes this as a good starting point. “Try exfoliating every other week and see if that helps,” she tells Bustle. “If your hair doesn’t improve, try once a week.” And, fun fact: Having an oily scalp doesn’t mean you need to exfoliate it more frequently, she says. This can lead to inflammation. “A dry scalp that gets flaky should also exfoliate about once every two weeks,” she says.

If you have sensitive skin or a condition like eczema, however, it’s best to consult an expert to determine the best regimen for you.

What Should You Use For Scalp Exfoliation?

There has been an uptick in scalp-specific hair care products in recent years, and these range from pre-shampoo oils, serums, or creams.

To find an appropriate scalp exfoliant, Hill and Patel recommend looking for ingredients that aid in cell turnover, reduce inflammation, and have anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Hill points to ingredients like citrus and rosemary, though tea tree oil and chemical exfoliants also do the job. You could also use a physical-based exfoliant (aka a scalp scrub) to scrub away buildup. Patel suggests formulas that use sugar or salt. Pro tip: Patel recommends adding a coarse salt or sugar to your shampoo to slough off dead skin cells.

You can also DIY a scalp scrub at home, with a few caveats. Patel suggests using African black soap because it has sulfur and ash, the latter of which is anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory. With your recipe, just be sure to avoid “coconut oil and olive oil on your scalp,” warns Patel. These can cause forehead acne and also increase the growth of microorganisms, which can lead to inflammation or even more oil production.

How Do You Exfoliate Your Scalp?

Now for the process itself. “Start by properly and liberally applying your selected oil, serum, scrub, or cream onto the scalp with your fingers and massage it in,” says Hill.

Once the product has been thoroughly massaged, you can reap more benefits by using a scalp brush. “When used with a proper [exfoliant], a brush increases circulation, cellular turnover, and stimulates the scalp to keep its muscles firing,” says Hill. So, basically, the bristles work to deliver more oxygen to your scalp, which feeds your hair and results in thicker, healthier strands. If you have straight to wavy hair, Hill recommends using the brush in circular motions, while wavy to tightly coiled hair should use half-moon shaped strokes. Either way, try doing the treatment for about five minutes for best results.

After you’re finished exfoliating, all you have to do is rinse and go on with the rest of your hair care routine. Keep scrolling to shop scalp exfoliators.

The Self-Care Buy

If you’ve ever run your comb against your scalp and thought, “How does this feel so good?” then treat yourself to this scalp massager. Aside from the euphoric feeling, the bristles help promote circulation for a healthier head of hair. This specific massager can also be used on a wet or dry scalp.

A Multitasking Serum

A skin care serum treats specific issues and goals. This product from Collective Laboratories does the exact same thing but for your hair. The serum stimulates circulation in the scalp, strengthens your strands, and balances oils thanks to its nourishing formula that includes ginseng and biotin.

A Celeb-Fave Scrub

Catherine Deneuve uses this salt scrub for her always lustrous and thick hair, so that really says it all. The Christophe Robin product is one of the mainstays of the category for good reason, and is perfect for those who like a gritty texture.

A Satisfyingly Fizzy Scalp Treatment

The texture of this Bumble & Bumble product is fizzy and foaming, which is immediately fun. But the formula is equally great: This pre-shampoo treatment only needs to be left in the hair for three minutes for the micellar water-based formula to take effect and remove your buildup.

Studies referenced:

Altuner, E. (2010). Investigation of Antifungal Activity of Ononis Spinosa L. Ash Used for the Therapy of Skin Infections as Folk Remedies. Mikrobiyoloji Bulteni. https://ift.tt/3or99Cp

Koyoma, T. (2016). Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue. Eplasty. https://ift.tt/2ycVILu

Trueb, R. (2018). Scalp Condition Impacts Hair Growth and Retention via Oxidative Stress. International Journal of Trichology. https://ift.tt/3uQkyhH

Experts:

Bridgette Hill, certified trichologist

Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist

Juliana Ohlmeyer, New York City-based hairstylist and colorist

Get More Dating Advice Here

[theherooftime00]

19 Self-Care Ideas for Spring

1. A hike to see and smell the blooming trees and flowers

Spring is an amazing time to explore nature. As the plants are budding and the trees are blooming it will make you feel so relaxed and care-free. Get out to a park and go for a hike to see all the beautiful spring sights!

2. Create a playlist of uplifting, spring music

My favorite way to make playlists is through Spotify. They have unlimited music for 10 bucks a month. I make so many playlists for all kinds of moods. Create a personalized spring playlist with uplifting and positive music that makes you want to dance like no one is watching!

Pick up a new pair of Bluetooth headphones and go for a walk with your new tunes. I absolutely love this brand of headphones. I’ve had them for almost 2 years now and I use them every single day!

3. A device-free walk

Now that is warmer out, it’s time to start walking outside again! Leave your phone, and any other electronic devices at home and enjoy the sights, smells, and warmth of the new spring season.

4. Make your home smell like spring

This is something that is super exciting to do! The smells that make me think of spring are citrus and flowers scents. Make your own DIY citrus spray, boil some oranges and herbs in water or buy some fresh flowers and make your home smell amazing!

5. Get a new essential oil for aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is incredible for your health. There are so many beneficial essential oils out there. Whether you are new or old to aromatherapy, find yourself a new essential oil. I would recommend one that smells like spring like lemon or rose petal.

I recently got this lemon essential oil for my diffuser and have been in love with it. It’s so refreshing and makes me happier!

Related Post: The Basics of Aromatherapy & How It Can Improve Your Health

6. Open your windows & air out your space

Our living spaces can get so musky and dingy after the long winter. Open up all your windows and let in fresh air! It will not only make your space feel great but it will make you feel so much better!

7. Create a new, energizing yoga routine

Yoga is so great for your body. Spend the spring season finding a new, energizing yoga routine that will awaken your mind and your soul! Also, try and find a day to practice your new routine outdoors to take in the fresh air.

8. Make citrus or fruit infused water

Take a pitcher filled with purified water and add lemons, strawberries, limes, and any kind of delicious thing you want. There is nothing more spring than some cold water that has been deliciously infused with berries and citrus!

9. Create an energizing spring sugar scrub

Body scrubs are one of my favorite things to use! There are so many different recipes that you could make. Try to create your own with some type of rose or lemon essential oil.

Don’t forget to add some pink or yellow food coloring to give it that extra spring look!

Related Post: DIY Peppermint Coconut Sugar Scrub

10. Start a new book

Books are amazing for the brain. Reading will not only improve your brain health but will help to spark your creativity. Go to your local library and pick up a fresh, new book to get lost in!

11. Create a list of positive goals for the spring season

Making lists are important to keep yourself on track in life. Each season is a perfect time to create a list of new goals that you can accomplish before the next season comes around! Make sure they are positive and also that you can feasibly complete them before summertime.

Related Post: How to Check Everything Off on Your To-Do List

12. Give yourself an at-home facial

Who wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a facial when you can easily do one yourself right at home?! All you need is a face mask or two, some steam, jojoba oil and some moisturizers. It’s the perfect start to a new season.

Check out this article for some more info on doing an at-home facial!

13. Create your own spring-themed face mask

Face masks are so much fun to create! There are so many different DIY recipes out there. Try to make one with bright colors and floral scents. Dive into the smells of spring while you make your face look better than ever! You can even add this mask to your at-home facial.

14. Paint a picture of flowers

Painting is a hobby that I have myself. It reduces so much stress and makes your creativity explode! Make a beautiful floral picture to hang on your wall for the spring season. It will make you happier and might even help you discover a new hobby!

Related Post: 8 Benefits of Having a Hobby & Why You Need One

15. Flower petal bath

Bath time is one of my absolute favorite self-care activities. Why not spruce up your bath time and add a touch of spring with some beautiful flower petals!

16. Spring cleaning

This may not be relaxing for everyone but it can really have an impact on your life! Vacuum your whole room, remove all the dusk from your belongings and go through your clothes. Create a clean and fresh environment to have the best spring ever!

17. Create a New Vision Board

If you have never made a vision board then today is your day! Get a poster board and print out anything that inspires you. You can also create a secret Pinterest board to make an awesome digital version. There is nothing more uplifting and motivational than a fresh & positive vision board this spring!

Check out this article for more information on how to create a vision board.

18. Make a spring themed meal

Food is life. Try to make a new recipe that screams spring. Try something like pasta primavera or this delicious colorful veggie wrap!

Find some inspiration here.

19. Get a new plant for your room

What is more aesthetically pleasing than a beautiful, lively plant in your room?! Plants not only look amazing but they help clean the air and calm you. Go out and get a live one or even a fake one to spruce up your space this spring!

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