Collagen in a Nutshell
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and is the ‘glue’ that holds the whole body together. Learn more here with Dr Arien van der Merwe about the many uses of the different types of collagen.
Post-Sun Skin Savers
Summer has arrived in its full glory, but long, sunny summer days and outdoor activities can leave your skin dry, scarred, spotted and pigmented. Try these natural tips to prevent and soothe sun-damaged skin.
Make Your Own Cosmetics From Home – Naturally
Let the late Margaret Roberts inspire you to make your own cosmetics from home. Discover her secrets to a basic skin lotion, skin cream, facial scrub and how to make a fragrant facial steam.
Beauty Products with Indigenous African Botanicals
Many indigenous African botanical extracts are blessings in disguise, for all manner of purposes and uses, from therapeutic to cosmetic. These brief comments highlight some of the topical cosmetic benefits.
Sort Out Your Skin Stress
Every year, one in four of us will seek treatment for a chronic skin complaint such as eczema, psoriasis, acne or rosacea, but many holistic health experts believe that addressing common symptoms such as inflammation, redness and scaly skin won’t solve the problem. A good integrative practitioner will look at everything from kidney and liver health to gut function when treating skin complaints.
Plant Extracts in Cosmetics
Plants have been used since the dawn of time for food, medicine and beauty. Some plant extracts in cosmetics have been good for the skin, some not so good.
Natural Solutions for Acne
80% of us will experience acne at some point in our life, but for some the psychological impact can be more severe than the condition itself. Acutane, synthetic hormones and antibiotics are not benign drugs and come with side effects and risks – there are alternative effective options.
Beware of Toxic Skin Care Products
The skin is the body’s largest organ and acts as a sponge, absorbing approximately 60% of what is put on it. To ensure good health and well-being avoid skin care products that contain toxic ingredients. Through the application of a large variety of beauty and skin care products we expose our skin, and body, to a large number of ingredients – many of which have not been tested for their long-term effects. Many of the products that we apply consist of ingredients that are toxic, without us even knowing.
Hyaluronic Acid – the secret to a long & healthy life
Hyaluronic acid, sometimes referred to as ‘the fountain of youth’, is known to many of us as a ‘hot’ new ingredient in skin creams. HA is a polysaccharide (a type of carbohydrate molecule) naturally present in the human body. Levels decline with age, and supplements are often recommended to treat or prevent ageing-related health problems. It is found in the highest concentrations in fluids in the eyes and joints, and in connective tissue, and it helps the body resist wear and tear. What exactly is it, and does it have other benefits?
Baobab Oil – a rescue remedy for skin and hair
Baobab seeds are cold-pressed to release a rich golden-amber oil which provides impressive moisturising qualities to both skin and hair. Sought after as an ingredient by many major cosmetic houses, baobab oil contains omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, vital for maintaining a healthy glowing skin.