Beauty - Garden Collage Magazine

When it Comes to Supplements, The Method of Delivery Matters

Garden Collage — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 16:44:52 +0000

In recent years much of the discussion surrounding supplements has centered around whether or not they are sufficiently regulated– with proponents arguing that barriers to entry in long term research prevents many effective supplements from getting the attention they deserve. (Detractors, however, argue that there isn’t sufficient evidence to back up many vitamin manufacturers claims.)

But regardless of this longstanding debate, what about method of delivery? If much of the debate surrounding supplements has to do with bioavailability, shouldn’t more companies be emphasizing the innovations that can help boost absorption?

LivOn Labs‘ liposomal supplements aim to do just that; the company provides a range of dietary supplements like Vitamin C, B Complex, and Glutathione that are delivered using liposomal encapsulation technology, which maximizes bioavailability through their trademark smart lyposomal nano-spheres.

Photo by Molly Beauchemin

Sold in single-serve packets whose contents are more efficiently absorbed than pills or powders, LivOn’s liquid supplements are also easier on the digestive system and more comfortable and affordable than IV injections.

The packets are meant to be taken 1 or 2 times per day in 1 to 3 oz of liquid, ideally on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. (After 15 minutes, food can be introduced.)

“Lypo-Spheric” products use lyposomes made from phospholipids, which the company notes is “the same material that makes up your cells.” These phospholipids encapsulate the nutrient being supplemented to protect it through the digestive process, which serves the twin purpose of maximizing absorption and satisfying the body’s need for phospholipids.

Photo by Molly Beauchemin

The company offers a variety of nutrients in their lyposomal supplements, which are all non-GMO, sugar free, gluten free, and 100% vegan. Their glutathione supplement is great for protecting cells from the onslaught of damage caused by free radicals, promoting optimum cellular health, and supporting a health immune system– but we love it most for its capacity to restore our energy levels.

The Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C (which is unsurprisingly a best seller) boosts immunity and supports healthy skin, joints, and muscles– and we love how portable it is, as the small packets are perfect for flights and other on-the-go moments when the body needs Vitamin C the most. (A feature in the New York Times that called this product “the hot new neutraceutical on the block” points out that Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C “is almost as good as a C drip.”)

Photo by Molly Beauchemin

LivOn’s B Complex Plus, meanwhile, delivers safe and natural energy support that helps the body burn fuel more efficiently. There’s no added sugar and no caffeine– and B vitamins also help support healthy blood sugar levels in those already within the normal range.

Ultimately, the effectiveness and much of the messaging surrounding it comes down to the patented technology that delivers the vitamin– rather than a discuss of the vitamins themselves (though they are obviously a big part of the equation). With innovations in the method of delivery advancing beyond the realm of pressed pills and powders, we might begin to image a future where people who hate taking pills can still take supplements if they want to– and when they do, their bodies will make it count.

To order your own set of lyposomal supplements, visit LivOn Labs.

* This post was sponsored by LivOn Labs. The opinions are completely based on the product experience of our editors. For more information, visit our Terms and Conditions.

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Evergreen Bark and Goji Go Glam in Patchology’s Latest Offerings

Garden Collage — Tue, 18 Sep 2018 22:18:13 +0000

In the crowded world of beauty and cosmetics, a few trends have emerged with striking clarity in the past half-decade. First, there’s an obsession with all natural, botanically inspired ingredients, and second, consumers also harbor an obsession with asian skin care– a sector of the industry that was quick to embrace the idea of layering products and the ever-popular sheet mask.

In an attempt to unify these twin obsessions, Patchology, a U.S.-based skincare company, has emerged as a popular choice among millennials, as many of the brand’s all-natural ingredients are sourced from Korea.

Two of Patchology’s products– the Restoring Night Eye Gels and Lip Service Gloss-to-Balm Treatment— caught our editors’ attention for their capacity to deliver Eastern-inspired ingredients that can be delivered at the pace of an American lifestyle– which is to say, quickly.

In an article written for American Spa, Kristin Vukovic explains:

“In April, the company launched a SmartMud No-Mess Mud Masque infused with the detoxifying benefits of volcanic mud, sourced from Jeju, a South Korean island. ‘Our innovation was to put mineral-rich volcanic mud right into a sheet mask, so the mud is easy to apply, comfortable to wear for 10 minutes, and virtually mess-free to remove,'” CEO Chris Hobson told Vukovic at the time.

“‘You get all the benefits of mud, but without the mess.’ Last spring, Patchology launched its FlashMasque sheet masks featuring HydraSurge5, which delivers hydration in five minutes versus 15– a perfect adaptation for the impatient American consumer. The innovative mask material virtually disappears when applied to the skin, and the shape and serum levels are customized for the U.S. market.”

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Lip Service is a lip balm and treatment that nourishes, conditions, and protects lips’ delicate skin with a physical barrier and an antioxidant-rich barrier. Goji fruit extract (lycium barbarum) is a powerful anti-aging antioxidant that slows cellular degeneration. The gloss has a nice shine and fresh, almost minty tingle (so you know its working).

The Restoring Night Eye Gels— known as “flashpatches”– contain arnica extract, peptides, retinol, and evergreen bark extract to counteract dark circles and wrinkles– beautifying, synergistic ingredients that we love because they can be worn so many different ways: under the eyes during makeup application, over the eyes to counteract upper eyelid puff, over makeup for a mid-day refresh, or even skinny-side-in to target crows feet specifically. (They are the consummate multitasking treatment that can be worn for extended periods, when you have the time, for a deeper treatment.)

Patchology recommends each of these styles of wear with cute, sassy names: The Dollface; The Scarecrow; The Minotaur, etc.

It’s one of the many reasons we like the brand: Patchology is keyed into the trendy, millennial-friendly branding that is necessary to secure a following in the natural beauty world of 2018. The packaging is on point, as is the branding, but most of all, the ingredients are forged from plants that consumers already recognize for their health benefits. What’s not to love?

Can’t get enough beauty? Read our articles on the best all natural toners, moisturizers, and sunscreens.

The post Evergreen Bark and Goji Go Glam in Patchology’s Latest Offerings appeared first on Garden Collage Magazine.

Kale & Caramel Highlights Beautiful, Practical Uses for Herbs and Flowers

Garden Collage — Tue, 18 Sep 2018 21:50:28 +0000

Lily Diamond of the lovely Kale & Caramel blog has a new book out that celebrates farm fresh ingredients like herbs and flowers, and the many ways they can be used in the context of dining and beauty. While the idea of farm-to-table eating has been popular for years, few foodies in the space have managed to eloquent relay the multiplicity of uses that many of the world’s most popular herbs and flowers can provide– lavender and rose, for example, can both be used to make skin-softening beauty treatments, but they also add finesse and intrigue to desserts.

Why not combine both ideas into a single, easy-to-reference book?

With the publication of Kale & Caramel, a collection of 80 vegan and vegetarian recipes for sweet and savory foods, Diamond accomplishes just that.

Each chapter of the new book celebrates a single aromatic herb or flower and organizes it’s uses into recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert… and plant-based infusions, face and body masks, exfoliation, and moisturizers. (Think: lavender oat milk baths, blackberry basil healing masks, brightening citrus scrubs, and the like. Ingredients you can pronounce, in combinations that nourish the body, mind, and spirit.)

Image courtesy of Lily Diamond

With beautiful photos and easy-to-follow instructions, the book is must for anyone looking to (literally and metaphorically) get back to the roots of eating well and prioritizing self-care– without too much fuss or time expenditure.

We love Diamond’s recipe for Fig & Honeyed Thyme Ricotta Galette (above) just as much as we love her recipe for the endearingly-named two ingredient “Night Night Oil” (captured in the gallery below), which is so simple and satisfying to make that you’ll never spend money on expensive aromatherapy oils again.

Check out more images from inside the book, below.

Kale & Caramel is available for purchase now. To get your copy of the book, go here.

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Our Favorite Vitamin C Products for Skin Protection and Renewal

Garden Collage — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 00:20:04 +0000

Vitamin C figures crucially into the synthesis of collagen, making it an essential part of any skin care routine, whether you’re ingesting it or putting it on topically. According to research conducted at Oregon State, “Dietary and topical ascorbic acid have beneficial effects on skin cells, and some studies have shown that vitamin C may help prevent and treat ultraviolet (UV)-induced photo damage.”

In speaking with dermatologists about the necessity of wearing sunscreen every day, we’ve come to view Vitamin C serums as a necessary ally of sunscreen– and also as a great topical ingredient for anyone looking to shake up a skin care routine that isn’t yielding results. Whether you’re after a youthful glow or just looking to preserve the glow you already have, topical Vitamin C has benefits for everyone. Below, we spotlight a few of our favorite skin care formulations that are taking the market by storm.

Photo: Molly Beauchemin

One Love Organics Vitamin C Line

One Love Organics’ fabulous set of Vitamin C body polish, body oil, and facial serum are the perfect post-shower triumvirate of products for tired, aging, or dull skill. We love this line because Vitamin C is beneficial not just for the face, but for the entire body (i.e., anywhere you have skin). We also love that these are all Eco-Cert verified organic cosmetics (one of the highest designations a “natural” skin care brand can achieve).

The body polish is particularly effective on heels, knees, and elbows, as it’s formulated with Vitamin C ester– a potent, stable form of Vitamin C that boosts radiance and counteracts that dreaded “ash-y knee” look. Follow with One Love’s Vitamin C body oil, which is made with the same compound of Vitamin C and papaya enzymes, which help nourish and soften. For face, apply a small pump of Vitamin C Serum underneath sunscreen for maximum radiance and protection– and, when in doubt, drop One Love’s Skin Savior multi-tasking wonder balm into your bag, for concentrated moisture on-the-go.

Photo: Pinterest

Joanna Vargas Rescue Serum

When it comes to getting a quick fix for tired, dull skin, look no further than Joanna Vargas’ Rescue Serum, which is our absolutely favorite corrective Vitamin C serum for travel. Formulated with Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, a gentle form of vitamin C that is suitable for all skin types, JV’s rescue serum brightens skin, boosts radiance, mitigates hyperpigmentation and protects against oxidative damage from harmful UV rays.

We love using it as a mid-flight skin refresher and detoxifying agent. The gentle, skin-softening formula deeply hydrates the skin’s lipid layer while protecting against the negative effects of pollution and sun. Skin is left with a fresh, dewy glow that we love— and the subtle fragrance is divine.

Photo: Pinterest

ISDIN Flavo-C Ultraglican Ampoules

We first became aware of ISDIN’s cute little antioxidant rich moisturizing ampoules when researching their sunscreen, and have since fallen in love with them. Formulated with 5% L-ascorbic acid, this antioxidant serum helps combat the effects of UV ray exposure, enhance firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten the skin’s complexion.

The formula comes pre-packed in tiny glass ampoules whose cap is broken off to access the serum; each box of ISDIN ampoules comes with a special tool to do this safely, as well as a bespoke cap to seal off the remaining serum to minimize oxidation. (Each ampoule contains about two “servings” of serum, which is best used within 24 hours of opening.)

The small size of each ampoule makes them ideal for travel, and we love the beautiful glow we get from the signature “ultraglicans” in this formula, which are a combination of dermatologically formulated proteogylcans that increase hyaluronic acid production and stimulate cell growth to boost moisture from within.

Photo: Lipgloss and Labels

Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum

One of the most trusted serums in the industry that’s often recommended by dermatologists, Skinceuticals C E Ferulic is sort of the Rolls Royce of protective Vitamin C serums. While we much prefer the fragrance of say, Joanna Vargas’ Rescue Serum (above), Skinceuticals’ critically acclaimed serum has a lot of evidence demonstrating its protective qualities, as it works synergistically with sunscreen to prevent UV damage from the sun. (Which means: fewer nagging age spots and more data to support its efficacy!)

This is our go-to serum for layering underneath sunscreen before a day spent at the beach, hiking, or anywhere where we plan to have a lot of sun exposure. Because of the strength of this formulation, you’ll only need to use a few drops– otherwise, sensitive skin might experience an “itchy” or tingling sensation, which just means you’ll need to use less of it next time around.

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At This Eco-Chic Salon in Paris, Botany and Beauty Collide

Molly Beauchemin — Tue, 17 Jul 2018 13:49:50 +0000

A salon that perfectly captures the twin zeitgeists of all-natural beauty and botany, What The Flower is a unique concept store in Paris that brings plants and modern, eco-chic hair care under one roof.

Opened in September of 2017, What The Flower (cheekily abbreviated as WTF) combines botany and beauty like never before. Founder Justine Jeannin was a hairdresser in some of Paris’ best salons and fashion studios for 15 years before she became concerned with the toxicity of the hair care products she was surrounding herself with on a daily basis.

When she made the decision to dramatically change her methods and adopt a more biophilic lifestyle, the concept of What The Flower was born.

Image Courtesy of What The Flower

The first step was to convert her hair care arsenal to include products that were more earth-friendly, working with Belgian color tinctures by Hairborist, who offer 100% plant- and vegetable-based hair color, shampoos, masks, and styling products. At the same time, she become deeply devoted to plants– collecting, them, caring for them, and surrounding herself by them when not in the salon.

In 2015, she launched the Instagram account @SweetyOxalis (and the blog sweetyoxalis.com) to share her passion for being a #PlantMom, writing about everything from gardening tips to home decor and offering hot tips on where plant lovers could find the best specimens in Paris.

Image courtesy of What The Flower

Encouraged by her friends and followers, in 2017 she took the blog IRL by opening Paris’ first hybrid botany and hair salon, What The Flower.

The original WTF space consisted of 100 square meters of greenery in the center of Paris, including a plant shop whose inventory was renewed on a weekly basis; an atelier space where Jeannin could organize various workshops around the theme of plants, from terrarium making, macramé, and kokedama to DIY plant-based textiles; and a 100% non-toxic hair salon for women and men, founded in partnership with Hairborist.

As expected, it was an immediate success, garnering major attention from Paris’s eco-conscious elite. Less than a year later, What The Flower had already outgrown its digs, relocating to a new two-level space at 35 rue du Chemin Vert (which incidentally means “green path” in French– we couldn’t have named it better ourselves).

Image Courtesy of What The Flower

Today, What the Flower has expanded to offer “plant-based hair care” workshops, and the concept store can be rented for private events, product launches, press conferences, and the like.

It was a logical next step for a salon that perfectly embodies two aspects of wellbeing that young people can’t seem to get enough of: self-care, and plants. Addled by the internet and seemingly every interior design magazine, it was a match made in plant heaven– which is why it continues to succeed.

To get a feel for the salon’s aesthetic, browse our gallery of images, below.

What The Flower is now located at 35 rue du Chemin Vert, 75011 Paris.

To find more information about the salon and their new space, visit What The Flower’s website.

The post At This Eco-Chic Salon in Paris, Botany and Beauty Collide appeared first on Garden Collage Magazine.

How Pollution Impacts Your Skin

Molly Beauchemin — Wed, 23 May 2018 20:31:18 +0000

So, you’ve already read our articles on the best all natural toners, oils, moisturizers, and sunscreens— but have you ever considered how pollution affects your skin?

New research suggests that pollution and particulate matter in major cities like New York, London, and Beijing may increase premature aging in skin, leading to increased incidents of hyper pigmentation, age spots, and wrinkles.

Research reported in Dermatology Times has shown that the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) that are bound to nanoparticles that enter air from pollution are converted to quinones. According to Dr. Zoe Draelos, these quinones are the “redox cycle chemicals” that produce “reactive oxygen species (ROS)”, which result in the same type of skin aging that is seen with chronic exposure to UV light.

As Draelos explains to the Times, “Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are inadvertently delivered to the skin via nanoparticles resultant from different forms of air pollution,” she says. “Washing the skin is one effective way of reducing the nanoparticle content on the skin surface. More information is needed in topical formulation development to combat this newly recognized skin aging mechanism.”

In the meantime, check out the below products, which are designed to help. And remember to always thoroughly wash your face at the end of each day!

Image via @LisaMariePrang

Clarins Multi-Protection SPF 50

Clarins Multi-Potection SPF 50 is an oil-free translucent sunscreen that shields skin from UVA/UVB rays as well as pollution and the consequent free radical damage that can stem from it, specifically the appearance of dark spots.

For those who have used this sunscreen for a while now, keep in mind that this is no longer an exclusively mineral-based sunscreen, though it is still broad spectrum. (The formula has been updated to include a mix of chemical and mineral sunscreens that offer more dimensional protection.)

Shiseido’s Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector

When we recommended [easyazon_link identifier=”B009DHNZ6C” locale=”US” tag=”gardcoll03-20″]Shiseido’s Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector (SPF 42)[/easyazon_link] in our guide to wintertime sunscreens, we did so in part because we like the added pollution protection. This light, smooth-applying sunscreen is gentle enough for everyday use and acts as a barrier to block pollution particles from penetrating the skin. Use it year round, and if spending extensive time in the sun (more than 2+ hours per outing) be sure to reapply often.

Photo via Luzern

Luzern’s La Defense Urban Protect Micellar Cleansing Water

We all know that micellar water can work miracles when it comes to removing oil, makeup, and bacteria– so having a formula that can also lift away pollution particles at the end of the day is an absolute must. Like the rest of Luzern’s results-driven, toxin-free skincare, the La Defense Urban Protect Micellar Cleansing Water is free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, and the rest of the Toxic 12 ingredients that natural skincare junkies try to avoid.

Gluconolactone helps neutralize heavy metals that can adhere to the surface of the skin while pumpkin enzyme ferment removes dead skin cells and elderflower extract from the Swiss Alps acts as a gentle astringent. The formula also includes zinc, copper, and magnesium coenzymes that lift away pollution particles like a magnet. As Luzern’s La Defense line is specifically formulated to combat pollution, the brand also offers an Urban Protect Detox Masque, a mineral sunscreen, and a mineral bb cream with SPF 20.

Photo via Dr. Sebagh

Dr. Sebagh’s Supreme Day Cream

Pricey as it is, [easyazon_link identifier=”B01NASM30C” locale=”US” tag=”gardcoll03-20″]Dr. Sebagh’s Supreme Day Cream[/easyazon_link] contains fractionated melanin compound that helps shield the skin against harmful High Energy Visible Light, also known as Photo Light, which can be just as damaging as UVA and UVB light. (The twist here is that HEV light is also admitted in small quantities by screens– yikes!)

The Supreme Day Cream also contains a powerful blend of antioxidants that help shield skin from daily environmental aggressors that dull complexion and age skin. It lifts, hydrates, and protects before you even apply your sunscreen.

Are you a skin junkie like us? Read our articles on the best all natural toners, oils, moisturizers, and sunscreens. (Pro Tip: You should apply those products in that order.)

The post How Pollution Impacts Your Skin appeared first on Garden Collage Magazine.

The Best Facials in New York City

Molly Beauchemin — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 15:06:08 +0000

In the last few years skincare has gone from a necessary aspect of personal grooming to a full-on obsession in popular culture.

While small-batch beauty brands are dominating the retail space (looking at you, Glossier and Drunk Elephant), skincare and relaxation treatments have also become a cornerstone of wellness cosmology– especially when it comes to splurging in the name of beauty.

While this year’s winter weather seems to be dragging on at an exceptionally slow space, we rounded up a list of our favorite facial offerings in New York City that are great for Spring renewal. This time of year, most people are looking to refresh their skin after months of cold weather and dietary abuse, before warm weather arrives and gives them a reason to show it off. (It’s like spring cleaning for your pores.)

For those living in or visiting New York City in 2018, the below facial treatments offer the ultimate glow up.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BhRqeWWBHYr/?hl=en&taken-by=jvskincare

Joanna Vargas Oxygen Facial (A New York Original)

The Joanna Vargas Salon is one of the premiere beauty institutions of New York City, featuring cutting edge skin treatments for every complexion. Using all natural boutique products from Vargas’ own line, the spa’s signature Oxygen Facial is used by dermatologists and celebrities alike.

The treatment involves spraying 98% pure oxygen infused with antioxidant serum to restore essential nutrients and boost collagen and elastin production. This facial is very hydrating and the results are visible immediately, which makes it a great facial for people who don’t want to wait a week for their face to start looking good again. (“Madonna even has her own oxygen machine and personal aesthetician [for] performing regular oxygen facials,” the spa writes on their website.) A must for those seeking a quick glow for a glam event.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BEZvD_9BqkI/?hl=en&taken-by=jordanamattioliskincare

Complete Skin MD’s Full Facial (Board Certified Excellence)

GC contributor and celebrated medical esthetician Jordana Mattioli offers a fully customizable approach to multidimensional skincare at Complete Skin MD.

You know you’re in good hands when your facial is recommended by dermatologists, and Mattioli’s Full Facial consists of a mix of clinically tested cosmeceutical skincare, including but not limited to: ultrasonic deep cleansing; enzymatic exfoliation; dermaplaning; medical microneedling; crystal free microdermabrasion; extractions; LED photo modulation; micro-current lifting; enhanced penetration of vitamin infusions using ionzyme technology; therapeutic masks; and pure medical oxygen therapy.

Whew! Plan for 75 to 90 minutes of pure heaven.

Photo: Courtesy of Naturopathica

Naturopathica’s Bio-Energy Lift Facial (An All Natural Wunderkind)

Naturopathica’s Bio-Energy Lift Facial is an editor favorite, featuring some of our favorite planted-based serums on the market. Naturopathica’s Healing Arts Center & Spa in Chelsea offers an array of nature-inspired mind-body work, featuring items like arnica oil, lobelia, and cramp bark compresses to unwind sore muscles; probiotic masks to restore a healthy skin surface; and luxurious Indian-Lime scalp massages.

The Bio-Energy Lift Facial aims to do exactly what its name purports: lift and enhance. It uses liquid microdermabrasion technology to infuse Naturopathica’s signature bio-energy lift serum for a deeply moisturized and restored complexion.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be6gcbghUwH/?hl=en&taken-by=massageenvy

Massage Envy’s Customized Healthy Skin Facials (Fast, Cheap, and Effective)

Great for those looking to get an earnest skin diagnosis without being sold too many products, Massage Envy’s under-rated facials service is great for those with an unused massage package who want to swap out body treatments for facials interchangeably.

Massage Envy’s price point can’t be beat (especially in New York City), and although the experience isn’t super fancy the aestheticians are skilled, knowledgable, and let’s just say they know their way around a sebaceous filament.

Image via Shizuka

Shizuka’s Bird-Poop Facial (Yes, You Heard That Right)

Shizuka made a name for itself in the New York City beauty scene about five years ago when they started offering a treatment that had previously only been available in Japan: a bird poop facial. Now one of the spa’s most novel services (and a bucket list item for many New Yorkers,) the Geisha Facial consists of using irradiated nightingale droppings to exfoliate and soften the surface of the skin. Irradiation sanitizes the droppings, which have been caged raised from birds fed a special organic diet.

It’s one of the strangest facials that New York City has to offer, but it’s a great experience for those looking to try something really novel. And the results– the smoothest skin ever!– speak for themselves.

Image via Pratima Spa

Pratima Spa Ayurvedic Facial (Bespoke + Deeply Nourishing)

Dr. Pratima Raichur’s Ayurvedic Spa is one of our favorite urban sanctuaries in New York City. In the healing cosmology of Ayurveda, each person possesses a “dosha” that consists of one of (or a combination of) three different bodily constitutions– vata, pitta, and kapha.

At Pratima Spa in Soho, facials can be tailored to meet these specifications, which are reflected in the skin. We love the spa’s Ayurvedic Facial, which incorporates fresh herbs to thoroughly cleanse, exfoliate, and renew skin. The treatment is fully customizable and can be tailored to include extractions, nourishing earth masks, and a face, neck, arm, and shoulder “marma massage” (a gentle massage that targets energy points or prana in the body, analogous to acupuncture points in Chinese medicine) that brings radiance and balance to all doshas and skintypes.

Want more spring beauty tips? Read our piece on why you should be using micellar water, and learn how to properly apply face oil.

The post The Best Facials in New York City appeared first on Garden Collage Magazine.

How To Use Face Oils (You’re Probably Doing It Wrong)

Garden Collage — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 18:13:04 +0000

What’s the best way to use face oil? How should face oils be layered? What’s the best botanical face oil?

If you’re a skin junkie interested in natural skincare, chances are you’ve had one of these thoughts before.

“My theory is that the use of topical plant based oils has been around since humans discovered medicinal plants and herbs in prehistoric times,” says Medical Esthetician Jordana Mattioli of New York City’s CompleteSkinMD. “We actually have data from ancient times; from Egyptian texts in 1550 BC to first century AD Greek physician references, which show hundreds of medicinal plant uses. Fast forward to the modern day, where we now have the ability to properly research and thoroughly test the benefits of these beautiful ingredients.”

Photo: Maggie Varadhan

All of this, moreover, has lead facial oils to have a big resurgence in skincare the past five years, and rightly so.

Face oils feel good on the skin, have amazing benefits, and leave skin with a natural, glow-y radiance. Plus: plant-based oils go beyond just moisturizing– they offer multiple benefits for the skin, from fighting inflammation to carrying powerful, protective antioxidants.

If you’re new to face oils, Mattioli says, treat them like you would a moisturizer.

“Use a face oil on top of active ingredients like a serum, but under sunscreen. Most skin types will find facial oils hydrating enough to use on their own, but its totally safe and effective to mix them into your moisturizer or even layer underneath.

Experiment and see what works best for you! The biggest mistake you can make when using a facial oil is using a single ingredient oil, like pure argan oil, or just coconut oil. Just as your body needs different nutrients from different foods, your skin will benefit from using a blend of oils instead of just one.”

Photo: Andreana Bitsis

“Skin types that are normal to dry will usually love the feel of a facial oil, where as oily skin may not. Just because it is an oil doesn’t mean it will always leave the skin with a dewy look or potentially clog pores. In fact, many oils can actually help improve skin function by guiding it to be more balanced.”

What Oils Should We Look For?

“If you have Oily Skin, look for omega-6 rich oils that are high in Linoleic acid. Common oils include acai, black cumin, cucumber seed, evening primrose, grape seed, hemp seed, maracuja, prickly pear, pumpkin seed, raspberry seed, safflower, soybean, tomato seed, watermelon seed,” Mattioli says.

“For Dry Skin, look for omega-9 rich oils high in oleic acid, like almond, apricot, avocado, camellia, carrot seed, hazelnut, macula, olive, or shea.”

“For Sensitive Skin, look for omega-3 rich oils high in a-Linolenic acid, like sea buckthorn, rosehip, cranberry seed, and chia seed.”

If you have very reactive or sensitive skin, look for face oils without (or with minimal) fragrance or essential oils. And as always, it’s best to patch test before using a new product.

The 6 Best Natural Sheet Masks to Try Right Now

Molly Beauchemin — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 18:21:00 +0000

Sheet Masks are a beauty junkie’s best friend, and in recent years, this Korean beauty staple has become an obsession in the health world. Many of these masks, however, contain harmful chemicals that most people wouldn’t think of allowing into their other skincare products– so why are we ok with them in masks?

Now that the sheet mask trend has officially set in even outside the realm of Korean beauty, there are a number of natural and organic companies that are producing sheet masks without the chemicals that most people forget to consider.

Below, we’ve spotlighted a few of our favorites.