Caring for Sensitive (Reactive) Skin

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The phenomenon of sensitive or reactive skin is characterized by an individual’s unpleasant sensory response to stimuli that wouldn’t usually cause such sensations. Some indicators of the condition are not always present in individuals with sensitive skin; however, subjective sensory effects, from itching to burning, stinging, and dryness, are often reported consistently.

Considering the subjective nature of sensitive skin, researchers have frequently utilized surveys to gauge the prevalence of this condition in the general public. According to these surveys, nearly 71% of the U.S. population report having sensitive skin, highlighting a 55% increase over the past two decades.

Aside from some expected effects, very little is known about the condition and how to care for it. As such, we look into this condition in detail, reviewing the symptoms, causes, and how to care for sensitive skin.

What Is Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is a condition where an individual’s skin is easily irritated by various stimuli that wouldn’t usually cause discomfort to others. Most people with sensitive skin notice occasional or frequent itching, burning, stinging, tightness, and dryness, especially in the face.

While it’s a prevalent condition, sensitive skin is not a disease and, as such, does not necessarily warrant a formal medical diagnosis. You may not even know you have sensitive skin, as the underlying reason behind the inflammation can be unique for each person.

In some cases, sensitive skin may be a symptom of an underlying condition. Hence, identifying possible triggers to this condition and finding ways to soothe irritated skin is critical in helping people with sensitive skin find relief and improve their quality of life.

Dry Skin vs. Sensitive Skin

Dryness is a common side effect of sensitive skin; however, there is a big difference between dry and sensitive skin.

Dry skin, commonly called xerosis, occurs when the outermost layer of the skin loses its natural moisture content, resulting in dehydrated skin. A person can develop dry skin for several reasons, including genetics, environmental conditions such as extreme cold or heat, and harsh skin care products capable of stripping the skin of its moisture.

Dry skin can be extremely uncomfortable, with symptoms such as flaking, itching, tightness, and in some cases, cracking, peeling, and bleeding. However, it is rarely a serious medical condition and can be alleviated by skincare routines incorporating gentle cleansing products, moisturizers, and skin-protecting products. These products help to hydrate the skin, restore its natural moisture balance and protect it from further damage. Under infrequent circumstances, dry skin can also be a sign of an underlying condition, such as hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones.

On the other hand, sensitive skin is often characterized by dryness, which can result from limited oil production, impair the skin’s ability to maintain a healthy and functional barrier, or cause skin irritation so severe, it becomes inflamed. Like dry skin, environmental factors, harsh skincare products, and other irritants can also cause the skin to become sensitive, sometimes resulting in a severe case of chronic contact dermatitis – skin inflammation that results from repeated exposure to a particular irritant.

Symptoms Of Sensitive Skin

As we said earlier, most people do not know they have sensitive skin until they notice a bad reaction to cosmetic products. And while the symptoms associated with sensitive skin can be kept under control, it’s essential to identify these signs and take prompt actions. Here are some common symptoms of sensitive skin.

  • Swollen and Itchy Skin

People with sensitive skin often experience itching and swelling, particularly after using harsh skincare products or exposure to hot water. This symptom can also become noticeable in cold and dry weather conditions. Itching the skin can only worsen the irritation and potentially lead to further skin problems, such as infection.

  • Skin Redness

Skin redness is a prevalent symptom of sensitive skin. People with this condition experience varying degrees of redness, manifesting as a red rash, elevated red bumps, blushing, or red, dilated blood vessels. In most cases, skin redness subsides with minimal treatment; however, more serious treatment options, such as laser treatments, can be explored when the symptom persists.

  • Stinging and Burns

People with sensitive skin tend to have a thinner skin barrier. Hence, it is common to experience stinging and burning sensations, especially when using skincare products that are too harsh for the skin. This reaction is prevalent with the use of products that contain alcohol, as well as acne and anti-aging products. Stinging and burning can be highly discomforting, and it’s imperative to remove the product immediately and rinse the skin with cool water.

  • Rashes or Hives

Recurrent rashes and bumps are often indicative of sensitive skin when exposed to a trigger, such as creams. We advise people to conduct a patch test on a discreet area of the skin before applying it on a large scale to avoid introducing a product that will cause irritation. With this strategy, you can observe your reaction to a new product before using it extensively.

  • Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common symptom of sensitive skin, with a lack of moisture exposing the skin’s nerve endings to different triggers. In certain weather conditions, individuals with dry skin may experience several symptoms, from cracks to blisters, peeling, and bleeding. For this symptom, mild moisturizers can hydrate the skin and help protect it from harsh environmental elements.

  • Patches

In some cases, patches and skin discoloration can be a symptom of sensitive skin. Typically, people with sensitive skin are more prone to developing skin reactions and irritations, and patches can result from these reactions. It is also possible for these patches to result from other underlying skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.

What Causes Sensitive Skin?

With sensitive skin, the body’s immune system is overreacting to an irritant, which could be skin products or environmental factors. Several factors can be cited as causes of sensitive skin, and while some are born with this condition, others develop sensitive skin due to underlying skin conditions.

  • Genetics

Sensitive skin is a genetic characteristic in some people, and it’s believed to pass down through families. People born with sensitive skin tend to be more prone to allergies, asthma, and quick skin flushing. This skin type is most prominent among individuals with Northern European ancestry.

In this case, the high skin sensitivity is primarily due to its delicate nature, including having less pigment, a thinner outer layer, and blood vessels close to the skin’s surface. The tinner epidermis, in particular, provides a less protective barrier against allergens, irritants, and microbes, making it easier for them to penetrate the skin and cause irritations.

Aside from people with Northern European ancestry, other groups are also prone to having sensitive skin. Individuals with lighter skin, hair, and eyes are also prone to high skin sensitivity. Also, people with African ancestry can be born with sensitive skin; however, this is quite rare.

  • Irritant Contact Dermatitis

The most frequently observed form of sensitive skin is characterized by developing a nonallergic rash following exposure to an irritant that affects the skin’s protective outer layer. As the name suggests, this condition occurs when the skin directly interacts with an irritant substance, causing irritation and redness.

The skin reaction results from chemical damage to the epidermis and can range from mild to severe. Treatment typically involves avoiding further exposure to irritants; hence, it’s best to be mindful of the skin’s reaction to various products and environmental factors. Professional advice is also required to care for sensitive skin and minimize the risk of skin reactions.

  • Allergic Contact Dermatitis

In this case, the skin reacts to an allergen, chemical, or other substances, causing inflammation and redness; however, this reaction results from an allergic or immune condition. Allergic contact dermatitis is a type of delayed hypersensitivity reaction, meaning it could manifest itself several hours or even days after exposure to the allergen, which could be preservatives, fragrances, nickel, or rubber.

The symptoms of this condition include itching, redness, swelling, and blisters, with the affected area having a painful and tender feel. Similar to irritant contact dermatitis, the severity of this condition varies, and avoiding further exposure also helps to stop the reaction. Additionally, topical creams and oral antihistamines can help relieve the symptoms.

  • Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that results in dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It’s also known as atopic dermatitis and causes the skin to become red and irritated, and sometimes, it can lead to blisters and crusting. The exact cause of eczema remains unknown; however, it is thought to be related to genetic and environmental factors and an underlying condition for sensitive skin.

The symptoms of eczema can be managed with several treatments, from moisturizers to topical corticosteroids and antihistamines. In severe cases, people also use inhibitors and immunosuppressants.

How to Care for Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, it is essential to take proactive measures to prevent exacerbating the condition. The first step towards better managing sensitive skin is to adopt daily skin care practices that minimize the risks of triggering flare-ups and irritations. The following skin care tips can help to achieve this:

  • Avoid hot and cold water. Slightly warm to cool is best.
  • Choose sensitive skin body wash, face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin.
  • Use fragrance-free products
  • Avoid scented beauty products and laundry detergents.
  • Avoid exfoliation except with more gentle enzymes, if needed.
  • Use facial products with limited ingredients. Using products with an extensive list of ingredients increases the risks of flare-ups or allergic reactions.
  • Use your fingertips or a very soft baby washcloth to cleanse the face, and avoid facial cleansing wipes. Don’t scrub or rub your face; gently pat till it’s dry.
  • Use soothing serums to help restore and replenish skin barrier moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramides and glycerine. You can explore Bee Natural’s Restore I, II, and III skin care system or our Bee Gentle Essential Skin Care.
  • Seal moisture into the skin with a moisturizer that contains simple ingredients as often as needed.

While skin care products can effectively cause irritations, people can also address the symptoms of their sensitive skin with beauty products specifically formulated for this condition. As such, if you wish to get safe skin care products for your sensitive skin, it’s best to explore Bee Natural’s Gentle Essential Skincare System.

Bee Gentle Essential Skincare System

360 approach to sensitive skin
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This product provides a 360-degree skincare approach for sensitive, dehydrated, and reactive skin, as well as those dealing with other underlying skin conditions, such as rosacea. Bee Gentle Essential Skincare System is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, providing four specially selected products for your sensitive skin.

  • Rejuvenating Gel Cleanser

Cleans, soothes, and hydrates the skin and features a perfect pH balance, ensuring the skin stays soft and moist

  • Queen Bee Facial Cleansing Milk

Our second cleanse product quickly dissolves makeup and impurities without drying your skin.

  • CC (Calm and Clear) Serum

Features several safe ingredients that work synergistically to calm redness, soothe inflammation, hydrate, and help to gently even skin tone.

  • Clean and Gentle Facial Moisturizer

The facial moisturizer product is formulated to thoroughly moisturize sensitive and reactive skin types.

Bee Natural also offers a Restore Skin Care System, which helps to restore, protect and renew your skin’s moisture barrier. This three-step product helps keep your skin looking soft, hydrated, and younger. Please take advantage of our sensitive skin products and explore healthier and more beautiful skin.

Conclusion

People with sensitive skin may experience a heightened reactivity to almost anything they encounter. Over time, this can lead to chronic sensitivity, causing various unpleasant symptoms, as we have seen earlier. In this state, the skin can react negatively to a wide range of products, making it difficult to find products compatible with the skin. For this reason, it’s vital to identify the underlying cause of your sensitive skin and take the necessary steps to care for the skin and avoid it degenerating into something more severe.

How To Get A Perfectly Even Complexion: Part 1 of 2

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Did you know hormones, sun exposure, acne, heat, and more could be contributing to your uneven skin tone?

There is great diversity in the color of human skin around the world. But whatever each person’s unique shade may be, the general desire is for uniformity of skin color; no splotches of discoloration, spots, or other changes in pigmentation. 

But… is it possible to get a perfectly even complexion? The answer may surprise you.

Before exploring the causes behind hyperpigmentation and skin discoloration, it is important to first understand pigmentation.

Pigmentation refers to darkening or lightening of the skin. It is a part of how your skin works as it reacts to external factors.

Melanin is the pigment that produces skin color. While it provides pigmentation in humans, it also plays an important biological role by providing protection against damage from the sun and UV light. 

Melanin is produced in skin cells called melanocytes that live in the outermost layer of our skin. Think about these like pigment factories that can be triggered to produce melanin.

Fun fact: Scientists theorize that evolution over hundreds of thousands of years is responsible for the diverse palette of human skin tones we see around the world today. Our ancestors developed permanent pigmentation levels in their skin as a form of natural protection against the sun. Most skin pigmentation (coloration) disorders that break up your otherwise even skin tone are completely harmless, such as birthmarks and freckles. It is likewise normal to see new discolorations appear on our skin as we age. However, you may be interested to learn there are well-defined causes and treatments for some of these skin issues. Preventative measures may also be taken to improve your skin’s chances of achieving even coloring.

Back to Your Skin. What is Hyperpigmentation?

When excess melanin is produced, you have hyperpigmentation. 

Hyperpigmentation is a term that describes a common, usually harmless occurrence where the skin changes to flat, darkened patches due to the overproduction of melanin. 

This can make spots and patches of skin appear darker than surrounding areas. It can occur in small patches, cover large areas, and even affect the entire body. Common examples of hyperpigmentation include freckles, acne marks, age spots (also called liver spots), and melasma.

Most Common Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Some people (maybe you) have always noticed some areas of their skin are different shades. 

If this is a new development, it’s likely the hyperpigmentation can be linked to something your skin experienced.

Inflammatory Causes

Ultraviolet Radiation (Hello, Sun!) 

That nice tan you have? Your skin doesn’t love it. The majority of pigmentation occurrences are caused by sun damage. Age or liver spots are the most common form of skin hyperpigmentation, and they occur due to sun damage. These small, darkened patches are usually found on the hands, face, or other areas frequently exposed to the sun.

Photomelanosis is increased pigmentation due to sun exposure, most commonly found on the face, neck and back. These areas may appear patchy or as diffused darkening.

Heat

Heat can be a trigger for melanocytes to start over-producing melanin! You’re more likely to wind up with heat-induced dark spots if you’re Asian, African-American, or Latinx, since susceptibility to hyperpigmentation is genetic.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (also called PIH)

This type of hyperpigmentation is linked to inflammatory causes that may have happened YEARS before you see the dark spots. When trauma occurs to your skin, melanocytes create melanin which then slowly rises to the surface.

Skin Experimentation 

Any harsh act that has occurred on your skin can cause hyperpigmentation in the future. Chemical peels, Microdermabrasion, Retin-A, and harsh facial scrubs are commonly linked to hyperpigmentation. 

Skin Injuries

Picking at blemishes causes injury to the skin. And skin remembers. If you picked at acne as a teenager, it’s likely as an adult you will see slightly darker spots of pigmentation emerging from beneath layers of skin. 

Hormonal Causes

Melasma, or Chloasma, affects 90% of pregnant women. It shows up as spots or patches which are similar in appearance to age spots, but cover larger areas of skin. These will often appear on the forehead, face, and stomach. This is a type of hyperpigmentation caused by abnormal hormone levels in the body. Its surprise appearance could be influenced by pregnancy, ovarian or thyroid dysfunction, or even the contraceptive pill.

 

Treatment for Hyperpigmentation

exfoliating-face-woman

Exfoliate regularly to break up the pigmented cells to allow them to fade. 

Look for a lightening moisturizer that contains one (or some) of the ingredients on the list below!

The top recommended product from Bee Naturals is MelaClear Pigment Lightening Creme. This product is suitable for any skin type and contains all-natural, collaborative ingredients–Daisy Blossom Extract, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and Panthenol (Vitamin B5)–to lighten UV induced pigmentation without bleaching surrounding skin. 

Consider a series of corrective skin peels or cosmetic procedures to lighten areas of the skin. Options include the following: laser therapy, intense pulsed light, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.

Time. This is the hardest thing, we know! It can feel like an eternity to treat hyperpigmentation. You won’t see drastic results immediately, but that doesn’t mean the brightening ingredients you’re using are ineffective. Place your trust in the science of skincare, be patient and allow your skin to naturally fade while consistently using sunscreen and other topical remedies–like the ones mentioned below.

Our Favorite Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation & Uneven Skin Tone

Alpha Arbutin: A choice brightening ingredient that is a lower strength derivative of hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is one of the most effective skin-lightening and spot-fading ingredients on the market, however, it can be harsh on your skin. Alpha Arbutin is a safer option which works by slowly releasing hydroquinone over time.

Kojic Acid: This ingredient is known to disrupt the production of melanin. It is a mild skin exfoliator which works to remove freckles and brown spots and also gets rid of the skin’s roughness and dryness.

Licorice Extract: Licorice extracts inhibits the production of tyrosinase, which in turn inhibits the production of dark spots. It also removes excess melanin and acts as a skin brightener!

Pea Extract: This ingredient keeps specific enzymes known as proteases from degrading skin proteins such as collagen and elastic, which are responsible for giving skin its firmness and elasticity. It protects your skin against the damaging effects of proteases activated by different types of skin abuse and the aging process

Resveratrol: An antioxidant found naturally in red grape skins. Resveratrol restores skin health by attracting and neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals in the skin can cause premature signs of aging and are created by too much time in the sun or environmental pollutants. Resveratrol’s topical application aids in the regeneration of healthier, longer-living skin cells which push dead, dying cells to the surface to reveal young-looking, more vibrant skin.

Combination Ingredients to Look For

skincare ingredients

Bearberry Extract with Vitamin C: This powerful skin lightening combination is found in skincare products, made from bearberry leaves extract and vitamin C. Contains a natural form of hydroquinone that inhibits production of melanin pigments in skin cells.

Lightening Herbal Blend: A blend of alpine plants, including Malva Sylvestris, Mentha

 Piperita, Primula Veris, Alchemilla Vulgaris, Veronica Officinalis, Melissa Officinalis, and Achillea Millefolium. This blend inhibits the production of melanin pigments, reduces the appearance of age spots and evens out skin tone.

Amino Acid (phenylalanine) and lipids: Unique skin lightening agent made from natural amino acids. Inhibits the production of melanin, lightens age spots and dark skin areas.

Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) Roots: A natural plant extract obtained from the roots of punarnava. Can reduce the number of different types of hyperpigmentation spots. 

Starflower: The active ingredient (hypoxoside) is derived from Rooperi Rhizome extract. It has been shown to reduce the production of melanin in hyperactive melanocytes. It has effective properties helping to fade age spots, freckles, and hyperpigmentation.

How Can I Prevent Hyperpigmentation?

If you found our page, it may be too late to prevent what you already see on your skin. 

But, great news! There are steps you can start taking today to prevent and manage future hyperpigmentation events!

sunscreen-redhead-womanAvoid exposure to the sun. Consider using a daily sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This serves to prevent the hyperpigmentation from becoming more prominent.

Avoid picking at the skin. Avoid picking at acne and scabs to prevent hyperpigmentation from occurring via skin damage. 

The formation of dark spots and freckles are common amongst people living in tropical climates. Always, always put on sunscreen before going out.

Using the right products and ingredients to treat dark spots and pigmentation will help in the long run. Prevention should always be your focus! 

To answer our earlier question, “Is it possible to get a perfectly even complexion?” The answer is YES (with some exceptions such as freckles and birthmarks). It takes time and commitment to the process. Hang in there! It will get better.

Additional Bee Naturals products to support your journey to a perfect complexion:

Bee Naturals is here for you! Sign up for our newsletter to learn more about the skin you’re in. 

You can call (573) – 242 – 3475 or contact us for a personalized skincare consultation- we want to help!

 

References

Skincare Ingredients You Should Not Mix

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Discovering the right skincare products for your specific skin type can often be an overwhelming process. Whether you’ve got sensitive, oily, dry, or combination skin, you should be using products that help improve your skin’s health and appearance and not hinder it. From moisturizers to toners and serums, the process of developing the correct routine is something that you often want a professional to help with. Certain ingredients like vitamin c, benzoyl peroxide, and retinol sound pretty harmless by themselves, but what can happen when they are mixed together? Some combinations of ingredients can be damaging to your skin.

Mixing Skincare Products 

Imagine you’ve come up with the perfect skincare routine to battle fine lines and wrinkles. You’ve got the best makeup remover, face wash, toner, and moisturizer. Faithfully you use these products for many months yet see no improvement in your skin’s appearance. What’s the problem? According to professionals, mixing the wrong ingredients can render them inactive or ineffective. 

It’s tough to nail down a good skincare routine if you’re using products from many different brands. Many cosmetic brands develop skincare products that are designed to work harmoniously together to help improve your skin’s health and appearance. When you use mix and match products from different brands, it’s like playing roulette with the results. Skincare companies like ours formulate products to work synergistically, and we make sure that they don’t contain ingredients that don’t work well together. 

Retinol and AHA/BHA 

Retinols are praised in the beauty industry for being the best in anti-aging, but pairing retinols with different products can sometimes be dangerous. Retinols work by increasing collagen production, improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving cell turnover. They are particularly sensitive in which products work well in conjunction with them because of their potential for irritation. When mixed improperly with other ingredients, they can cause redness and irritation. AHA/BHA products that contain salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid are great at exfoliating and producing a more even skin tone. Still, when they are paired with a product like retinol, they can irritate a sensitive person’s skin and cause painful peeling. Using a retinol product with a moisturizing product can help minimize potential side effects. 

Retinol and Vitamin C 

Vitamin C sounds like a pretty natural and mild ingredient, but retinoids can be pretty tricky to try to pair with it. Less stable forms of vitamin C can be particularly problematic. Vitamin C is an excellent environmental protector used during the daytime, whereas retinoids are better used at night since they become inactivated by sunlight. To maximize the benefits from both products, it’s better to use them separately. Use the vitamin C products during the day and the retinol at night for optimal effects. 

Retinol and Benzoyl Peroxide 

Retinol is a form of vitamin A, and most forms of vitamin A don’t work well with some of the most effective forms of acne fighters on the market, like benzoyl peroxide. They can compete and work against each other, with some studies showing that benzoyl peroxide can actually make retinol ineffective by deactivating it. More stable forms of vitamin A like tretinoin may be more stable when combined with benzoyl peroxide. 

Water-Based Products and Oil-Based Products  

It’s common knowledge that water and oil don’t mix, and for the same reason, it’s a good idea not to combine water-based skincare products with oil-based skincare products. Oils are hydrophobic, which means instead of attracting water, they repel it. For oil and water-based products to work together, they need to be specifically formulated using an emulsifier to ensure that the product does not separate. People with acne-prone or oily skin have often been afraid to use oil-based products. They’ve been told that oil clogs the skin’s pores, causing even more problems. If your skin is more oily prone, sometimes a water-based product can be a better choice, although all oils are not created equal. Some oils that are smaller and lightweight can actually be beneficial to all skin. 

Some of our Favorite Skin Care Products

We produce and formulate skin and body care products with specific therapeutic purposes with high-quality ingredients. Our products are made to promote healthy skin and body for overall well-being. We use more natural ingredients by combining the best that science and nature to create luxurious products for the face and body. In order to pick the products best for your unique skin type, we would love to assist you in making the best choices. Just give us a call or email, and we’ll help you find products perfect for your skincare goals! 

Clarifying Facial Wash 

Our clarifying facial wash is a gentle yet effective exfoliating and clarifying facial wash. With ingredients containing AHA/BHA, this product can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and reduce pore size. It also reduces inflammation, deeply cleanses pores to reduce excess sebum and oil, and allows for better serum and product penetration. 

Clear Skin Toner 

Our clear skin toner is free of drying and irritating alcohol. The formula contains natural glycolic acid for improved cell turnover and a brighter, clearer complexion. It’s pH balanced and preps the skin for treatments and serums. 

Queen Bee Facial Nectar

Made with a natural ingredient base including grapeseed, sunflower, and coconut oils, the Queen Bee Facial Nectar is our go-to moisturizer for a wide range of skin types. With the addition of unbleached beeswax, evening primrose, vitamin E, and carrot seed oil, these nursing ingredients help to provide soft, well-nourished skin year-round. It defends the skin from irritants while working to fight visible signs of aging.  

Let Us Help You 

We are 100% committed to producing and formulating skin and body care products that are made with the highest quality ingredients. Our products have a specific therapeutic purpose, and we develop our products based on our customers’ needs. We would love to assist you in our skincare journey, so please reach out to us for a personalized recommendation for your specific skin type. We look forward to making you a customer for life!

How to Build a Skin Care Routine

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I can’t tell you how often I speak with clients who are overwhelmed by all the products available for skin care today and further confused by massive marketing campaigns. Who wouldn’t be confused and exasperated!  Our goal at Bee Naturals is to help you understand your skin, what it tells you every day, and how to understand, not only how to decipher ingredient labels, but how to discern which of these ingredients are best to help you achieve a healthy, glowing complexion. We want you to be educated, so you can make the best choices for you!

First, What Is My Skin Type?Build a skincare routine

It’s essential to understand your true skin type. It takes a bit more investigation than you might think, initially, but don’t worry, we have an easy tool to help make this easier. This step is vital to selecting the best, most effective products for you, which will ultimately save you money, waste, and deliver the results you want and deserve, minus surprises and disappointment. There are 4 key factors that must be taken into consideration besides the typical, Normal, Oily/Acneic, Combination, and Dry types scenarios. Ask yourself, or a professional esthetician these key questions:

Dehydration, Inflammation, Pigmentation and Wrinkles

Take dehydration, for example, did you know you can have extremely oily skin that is also dehydrated? Yes, it can absolutely be dehydrated and we see it frequently. Even the oiliest complexions need to:

Avoid drying, harsh cleansers and to hydrate (moisture, not oil)

Is your skin sensitive or does it tend to ‘react’ to products or ingredients? If you answered yes, you’re prone to inflammation. Your skin ‘reacts’ to ingredients. Fragrance is the #1 reason people react to products. (yes, this means you should use primarily fragrance-free facial care products) We know you love that good smell, but often your complexion doesn’t. Even natural essential oils are a potential threat, though many people don’t think so.

Do you have freckles or ‘age spots’, or perhaps areas of darker color or discoloration?

Unless your skin is uniformly colored overall, if you have fair hair, eyes, a history of tanning and/or sunburns, you may have pigmentation issues. And even if you don’t have any of the general characteristics mentioned above, you can still have pigmentation issues.  An esthetician can look at your skin with a special light (Woods lamp) and actually see if you have pigmentation issues deep in your skin before they are visible to the naked eye. Genetics play a role in this issue as well as hormones.

Is your skin tight and firm, or are fines lines and/or wrinkles starting to show up?

Isn’t it frustrating to meet someone who is well into their 50’s, 60’s or even their 70’s and their skin is smooth and nearly free of lines, wrinkles and sagging? Some of us are just blessed with this skin type, genetically, but, keep in mind that poor lifestyle and skin care choices have an impact, so all is not lost. Not all skin ages the same way and if you’re not blessed with ‘ageless’ skin, then you have wrinkles or aging issues.

So what do these factors have to do with my skin type? Everything! These factors are critical subtypes to the basic Normal, Combination, Oily and Dry types. By knowing this information, in addition to your basic skin type, you can make much more accurate and informed choices of which products will best serve your needs and give you the healthy skin and results you want to see.

Second, Just a Bit of Science.

Our skin is our largest organ of the body. It protects us from external environmental assaults, pathogenic bacteria, and toxins. It regulates our temperature, serves as a waste disposal system and so much more, so it only makes sense to take good care of this organ that takes such good care of us.

Whether you’re an ‘I wash my face with soap’ person or an ‘I use multiple serums, elixirs, and trendy anti-aging creams and moisturizers’ type, we’re here for you to help demystify this complex topic by providing solid, science-based information that will empower you to save money while achieving glowing, healthy skin.

Building a Basic Skin Care Routine

Even the busiest of us can agree on this:

  • Cleanse – keep your skin clean
  • Moisturize- keep your skin supple and moist
  • Protect – Use sunscreen to prevent UV damage

If your skin, both on both your face and body are healthy and not dry, excessively oily/acneic, or inflamed, the routine above may well be all you need or want, just keep these principles in mind when choosing the 3 products you will use to cleanse, moisturize and protect.

Step I: Cleansing

Although pure soap has been around for millennia, it is by nature, alkaline to some extent, and therefore drying to some degree, depending on the soap itself. We don’t recommend it if you are the least bit prone to dry skin. Alkaline cleansers, such as soap are inherently drying. If you choose to use a pure soap product, ask if it is enriched with oils and or humectants to help offset the dry effect. Look for added ingredients such as glycerin, honey, propanediol, or plant oils such as coconut, or avocado oils. 

We prefer, especially for facial care, the newer generation surfactants (cleanser ingredients) such as decyl glucoside, sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate and coco glucoside, to name a few. We avoid the use of sodium lauryl sulfate, as it is too harsh and drying. Many of these are derived from natural sources and clean well, but without over-cleaning, or cleaning too well. Squeaky clean is NOT good, especially for your face. You want to remove dirt, excess oil and debris- not turn your skin into the Sahara Desert.

How:  AM & PM

So, after you have selected your cleanser based on our chart below with recommendations, using lukewarm water, wet your dedicated face cloth, apply cleanser to your face, or the cloth, (your preference) and gently, but thoroughly massage your cleanser over your entire face, jawline and neck, then rinse with tepid water, thoroughly. Gently and lightly pat (don’t rub) your face almost dry. Leave it just a bit damp and immediately proceed to Step II.

Step II: Moisturize 

Select the most appropriate moisturizer for your skin type, based on our chart below. The choice of moisturizer based on the needs of your skin is imperative. If it’s too rich, your skin may feel greasy or looks shiny; conversely, if your skin is on the drier side, you will need a heavier or richer moisturizer to compensate for your skin’s lack of natural oils. If you find that your skin still feels too dry, you’ll likely want to select a richer moisturizer. It should make your skin feel and look good, Moist, and dewy.

How: AM & PM

While your skin is still slightly damp, apply your selected moisturizer to your skin and gently massage it in using upward movement. Your moisturizer, applied to damp skin, acts to help seal in the moisture and keeps your skin better hydrated throughout the day, or night. Moisturizer helps prevent what is technically called TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss). Too much TEWL causes dehydrated skin, not necessarily dry skin.

Step III: Protect

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun, (even on cloudy days) is the #1 cause of premature skin aging (sagging, coarse texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation)!  This damage to the skin causes the breakdown of collagen, too, and is cumulative and irreversible!  So, do we have your attention?

How: AM

Select the sunscreen/protective product of your choice. We are advocates of non-chemical sunscreen products, such as zinc oxide (remember lifeguards at the pool?) Zinc oxide blocks both UVA and UVB rays and is well tolerated by most people. Look for a zinc oxide concentration of 25% for the best protection and apply it liberally. Reapply, if you’re perspiring during heavy physical activity or swimming.

9 Tips For Caring for Your Hands

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A lot of life happens through our hands. With them, we labor, love, and care for ourselves and others. Although people commonly look to your face to determine your age, your hands are one of the key giveaways of your real age. And like your face, if improperly cared for, your hands can make you look older than you really are. And nobody wants that! 

While handwashing has always been an important part of a healthy routine, it is emphasized now more than ever as an essential task in the prevention and spread of disease. Add with the constant use of alcohol-based sanitizers, your hands are likely feeling a little unloved.

We want to share our simple techniques to keep your hands looking (and feeling) their best.

Caring for Your Hands

1. Start with a Gentle Soap

Many of today’s commercial soaps are riddled with harsh detergents that can strip your hands of their natural, protective barrier. Certain ingredients, such as sulfates and parabens can cause irritation and other health concerns. Science has generally concluded that plain soap is effective against the spread of disease. (1)

We recommend using a gentle, ‘milky’ type hand wash, such as Bee Naturals Aromatherapy Self Foaming Hand Wash.  This detergent and sulfate-free soap is made with honey and coconut oil, which are naturally antibacterial and rich in emollients. 

2. Exfoliate the Right Way

Exfoliation should be a part of your healthy skincare routine. It removes dead skin cells and aids in improving circulation for the healthy growth of new cells. And that brightened look adds to the youthful appearance of your skin. 

There are two ways you can exfoliate your skin: chemically and mechanically. Chemical exfoliation is done through Alpha-hydroxy acids or Beta-hydroxy acids. These treatments are typically reserved for the face, depending on your skin type.

Mechanical exfoliation is a great way to ‘scrub’ your dead skin cells away. We recommend using a gentle sugar-based scrub like our Citrus Splash Sugar Scrub, or our Honey Sugar Scrub. Use these scrubs several times a week to remove dry, flakey skin. You’ll love the silky-soft feeling of your hands.

3. Avoid Extremes

In your quest to kill the germs taking up residence on your hands, you might find yourself wanting to use extremely hot water. However, studies have shown that neither hot nor cold water plays part in the efficacy of bacterial removal. (2) In fact, extremely hot or cold water can cause undue stress to the skin. 

Harsh chemicals used for cleaning can also strip our skin of necessary moisture. It’s a good practice to wear rubber gloves when cleaning.

4. Hydrate

As is the case with many commercial hand soaps, a significant amount of moisturizing products contain ingredients that can be harmful to your skin. Petroleum-based products are a cheap way to soften skin, but they have a dark side. Studies point to potential toxicity if petroleum isn’t properly refined for use in skincare products. (3) Furthermore, many of these products are occlusive, blocking your skin’s natural ability to hydrate and maintain its moisture balance.

Instead, try using creams that contain cocoa butter, beeswax, shea butter, and avocado oil. These ingredients give your skin a nourishing drink of hydration without compromise. We recommend our Bee Naturals Ultra Rich Hand Creme. This emollient-loaded formula soothes even the most severely dry, chapped skin.

5. Show Your Nails Love, Too

Part of your hands’ appearance and health involves showing your nails and cuticles some love. Trimming cuticles was once a part of the manicure process. However, health care professionals recommend against the practice as it opens pathways for harmful bacteria to enter the body.

Instead, try soaking your hands in warm water, then use a cuticle stick to push them back. Follow up by massaging in Bee Naturals Cuticle and Nail Oil for healthy, supple cuticles and nails.

6. When You Sanitize…

In our busy, on-the-go world, you don’t always have access to soap and water. Sanitizers are an effective guard against germs and bacteria (although washing is always the most effective option). Because the CDC recommends using a sanitizer with at least  60% alcohol, you can count on your skin getting sapped of its protective moisture barrier. 

Have you seen our Bee Naturals Aromatherapy Hand Sanitizer?  The refreshing scent of lavender and orange, combined with skin-softening glycerin make our sanitizer a handy, luxurious way to protect you and your loved ones.

7. Sun Protection

When you apply sunscreen, you are likely diligent in covering your face, shoulders, and arms. The tops of your hands, however, might get overlooked. Guard against brown spots, aging, and the harmful effects of UV damage by applying SPF 30 often.

8. Guard Against Aging

Because our hands, like our faces, can show signs of aging, using a high-quality anti-aging serum with Vitamin C and/or peptides can help maintain your hands’ youthful appearance. Wanting a more in-depth look at the benefits of peptides in the battle against aging? We’ve covered that topic on this blog. 

You’ll love our Bee Naturals Ultra AA Serum, loaded with the best anti-aging ingredients science and nature have to offer. We recommend sharing the love with your hands, after applying this serum to your face, as part of your morning skincare routine.

9. Treat Your Hands to a Spa Day

Looking for a way to pamper yourself or a loved one? (Or, have your loved one pamper you?) Treat your hands to a spa day by using our Bee Naturals Detox Facial Masque. Follow up by massaging Bee Naturals Hand and Body Nectar onto your hands, then wrapping them in a warm towel. 

Are you looking for more ways to improve your skin’s overall appearance and health? We’d love to connect with you! At Bee Naturals, we are committed to formulating and producing skin and body care products that help promote healthy skin and body for your overall well-being.

Sources:

  1. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/7/2/70-0225_article
  2. Hot water and hand washing
  3. http://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/petrolatum/