The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and, let's be honest, a bit of overindulgence. From rich foods and sweet treats to late nights and hectic schedules, our skin often pays the price for our festive spirit.
As we emerge from the whirlwind of parties and gatherings, many of us notice our skin looking a bit tired, dull, or even stressed. But fear not! The new year is a perfect time to detoxify and rejuvenate your skin, bringing back its natural glow and health.
Let’s explore five essential strategies to detox and refresh your skin after the holidays. These tips are designed to help you cleanse, hydrate, and nourish your skin, addressing the effects of holiday excess both inside and out.
Whether you're dealing with dryness, breakouts, or just a general lackluster complexion, these steps will set you on the path to a radiant, healthier-looking skin.
So, let's dive in and give your skin the post-holiday care it deserves!
Importance of Deep Cleansing
The first step in any skin detox regimen is thorough cleansing. During the holidays, our skin is exposed to various elements - makeup, rich foods, less sleep, and possibly more alcohol than usual. This can lead to clogged pores, dullness, and an overall tired appearance.
Deep cleansing helps to remove the buildup of impurities, excess oils, and toxins, providing a fresh canvas for the rest of your skincare routine.
Steam Treatment
Facial steaming is a simple yet effective detox method. It opens up the pores, softens the surface layer of dead skin cells, and helps to release trapped impurities.
For a home steam treatment
After steaming, your skin will be in an optimal state for deep cleansing. This is a great time to gently exfoliate or apply a serum, as the active ingredients can penetrate more effectively.
Remember, though, that steaming should be done moderately – once a week is sufficient. Overdoing it can lead to increased sensitivity and dryness.
Detoxifying Masks
One of the most effective ways to deep cleanse is by using a detoxifying mask.
Clay masks, for instance, are fantastic for drawing out impurities and absorbing excess oil. They contain minerals like bentonite or kaolin, which have a natural ability to cleanse and purify the skin.
For a DIY approach
Charcoal masks are another great option. Activated charcoal is known for its powerful detoxifying properties. It acts like a magnet, pulling dirt and toxins from the pores.
This makes it particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
When using any detoxifying mask, it's important to follow up with a nourishing moisturizer, as these masks can sometimes strip away natural oils along with impurities. Opt for a lightweight, hydrating formula that soothes and replenishes your skin.
Rehydrating the Skin
Post-detox, your skin needs hydration. Regardless of your skin type, maintaining moisture balance is crucial.
Look for serums and moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, a powerhouse ingredient known for its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.
This not only hydrates but also plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Antioxidant Power
Antioxidants are your skin's best friend, especially after the holidays. They help combat oxidative stress caused by excess sugar intake, alcohol, and environmental pollutants.
Vitamin C is a popular choice, known for its brightening and anti-aging properties. It also boosts collagen production, giving your skin a firmer and more youthful appearance.
Apply a vitamin C serum each morning before your moisturizer and sunscreen for the best results.
DIY Antioxidant Treatments
For a more natural approach, you can create homemade face masks using antioxidant-rich ingredients.
A simple mask can be made from
Hydration Through Diet
While topical hydration is important, internal hydration is equally crucial. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins and improves overall skin health. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges into your diet.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Your diet plays a significant role in skin health. Foods high in antioxidants can protect your skin from damage and aid in repair. Berries, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources. Incorporate these into your meals as much as possible. For instance, start your day with a smoothie packed with fruits like blueberries and spinach, or snack on almonds and dark chocolate.
Reducing Inflammatory Foods
Reducing sugar and processed foods post-holidays can significantly improve your skin. These foods can cause inflammation, leading to breakouts and dull skin. Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This not only benefits your skin but also contributes to overall health.
Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle massage technique that helps promote the natural drainage of the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart. This method is particularly beneficial for detoxifying your skin, as it helps to reduce puffiness and encourages a healthy glow by promoting better circulation.
Step-by-Step Guide
To perform lymphatic drainage massage at home:
Use light pressure; the lymphatic system is just beneath the skin and doesn't require deep massage to be stimulated.
Tools for Lymphatic Massage
For an enhanced experience, you can use tools like a jade roller or gua sha stone. These tools can help reduce swelling and increase blood flow, providing a more effective lymphatic drainage experience. When using these tools, always move in one direction – not back and forth – and keep the pressure gentle.
Exercise and Skin Detox
Regular exercise is a fantastic way to detoxify your skin. When you sweat, your body expels toxins, and the increased blood flow nourishes skin cells with oxygen and nutrients. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could be anything from brisk walking or cycling to more intense activities like running or HIIT workouts.
Benefits of Using a Sauna
Using a sauna is another excellent way to help your body and skin detox. The heat from a sauna makes you sweat and increases circulation, similar to the effects of moderate exercise.
If you have access to a sauna, try incorporating a few sessions per week into your routine. Remember to hydrate well before and after your sauna session.
Alternative Sweating Methods
If you don't have access to a sauna, there are other ways to induce sweating. Hot yoga is a great option, combining the detoxifying effects of sweating with the stress-reducing benefits of yoga. Alternatively, a hot bath with Epsom salts can also promote sweating and help detoxify your skin.
Sleep and Skin Health
Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep for your skin. During sleep, your body goes into repair mode, regenerating skin, muscles, blood, and brain cells. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress hormones, which may worsen skin conditions and prevent your skin from recovering from holiday stress.
Tips for Better Sleep
To improve your sleep quality, establish a regular sleep schedule. Create a bedtime routine that helps you relax, like reading a book or taking a warm bath. Avoid screens at least an hour before bed, as the blue light can disrupt your sleep cycle. Ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable, quiet, and dark.
Sometimes it can be difficult to “unplug” and embrace that deep, restful sleep your body craves.
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As we wrap up, remember that detoxifying your skin after the holidays is not just about external treatments; it's a holistic approach that includes your diet, physical activity, and overall lifestyle.
By incorporating these five strategies into your routine, you can help your skin recover from holiday excesses and maintain its health and glow all year round.
Start with one or two changes, and gradually build up to a comprehensive skincare and wellness routine. Your skin is a reflection of your overall well-being, so take this opportunity to treat it with the care and attention it deserves.
We're part of a world where pulling an all-nighter is seen as a testament to dedication, not realizing that it can be an invitation to health issues. Rather than being viewed as an expendable luxury, sleep should be cherished as a necessary pillar of health and well-being.
Our knowledge about the importance of sleep has grown leaps and bounds in recent years, shedding light on how it influences everything from our thinking and mood to our metabolism and immunity. Sleep is like the behind-the-scenes hero, quietly maintaining balance in our bodies.
Now, one aspect of sleep deprivation that we often overlook is its sneaky role in causing systemic inflammation. It's like an invisible troublemaker, stirring up issues like immune system overdrive, stress response, disruption of our body's natural rhythms, gut problems, and cellular damage. All of these set the stage for inflammation, a little like an unseen villain in our health story.
Sleep is like a dance partner to our immune system. While we're tucked in, dreaming, our bodies are busy producing specific proteins known as cytokines. They're the brave soldiers on the frontline against threats like infection, inflammation, and stress.
However, when we start skimping on sleep, the production of these protective cytokines takes a hit. To make up for it, our bodies amp up the production of inflammatory cytokines. This imbalance nudges our immune response towards inflammation, which can pave the way for health issues. So, in a sense, insufficient sleep can flip the switch, turning our body's defense mechanisms on their head.
Sleep deprivation isn't just a spanner in the works for our immune system; it can set off a domino effect in our body. It acts like a stress signal, prompting the release of cortisol - our body's main stress hormone.
Don't get me wrong, cortisol isn't the bad guy here. It's essential for various bodily functions like immune response, metabolism, and stress management. However, when sleep deprivation pushes cortisol levels into overdrive, it can mess with our immune system, triggering inflammation.
Imagine a car engine running at full throttle, non-stop. It's bound to overheat and cause damage, right? That's what happens when stress response gets stuck in the 'on' position due to lack of sleep. It can lead to systemic inflammation, a well-known factor in chronic diseases.
Our brain houses a master clock that orchestrates our daily rhythms. This circadian rhythm is like the conductor of our body's biological orchestra, managing everything from our sleep-wake cycles and eating patterns to hormone secretion and immune function.
However, sleep deprivation can throw this conductor offbeat, causing discord among these processes. When our sleep and wake cycles go haywire, it confuses our circadian rhythm, disrupting our immune function. This can, in turn, stoke the fires of inflammation. So, good sleep isn't just for recharging our batteries; it's key to keeping our biological processes in rhythm.
In recent years, we've come to realize that our gut, with its trillions of microbes, plays a key role in our overall health. It affects everything from our immunity and metabolism to our brain function. But guess what? Sleep deprivation can upset the balance of this delicate ecosystem, leading to an increase in gut permeability, often called "leaky gut."
When our gut becomes leaky, it's like a dam with holes, allowing bacteria and other potentially harmful stuff to escape into our bloodstream. This triggers an immune response and, you guessed it, inflammation. So, getting enough sleep is not just about keeping your brain happy; it's also about keeping your gut in good shape.
Chronic sleep deprivation doesn't just stop at messing with our larger bodily systems; it sneaks down to our cells. When we continually cheat ourselves of the sleep we need, we're in a constant state of physiological arousal. This leaves little downtime for our cells to recover. It's like an engine running non-stop without any servicing, causing wear and tear at the microscopic level, which can manifest as inflammation,
As we learn more about sleep, we're beginning to see how it influences areas of health that might seem unrelated at first glance. One such area is metabolism - how our bodies convert food into energy.
Insufficient sleep puts our bodies in a state of physiological stress, triggering a cascade of hormonal changes, including those related to metabolism. Lack of sleep can disrupt our insulin sensitivity, leading to higher blood sugar levels, a precursor to conditions like diabetes. Similarly, it can mess with our appetite and energy usage, paving the way for weight gain and obesity.
These metabolic changes can create an environment ripe for inflammation. High blood sugar levels and obesity can both kickstart inflammation, adding another layer to the complex relationship between sleep deprivation and inflammation. This underscores the importance of sleep not just for brain function and emotional balance, but also metabolic health.
So, to wrap this up, the role of sleep deprivation in causing inflammation is a multi-layered story. It involves a complex web of mechanisms, from immune disruption and stress response activation to rhythm disturbance, gut health issues, cellular damage, and metabolic changes. Given the far-reaching effects, making sure we get enough sleep is a crucial step towards better health.
By getting sufficient sleep, we're arming our bodies with a powerful tool to fight inflammation and a host of associated health problems.
The value of good sleep can't be overstated. Here are some tried-and-tested strategies to help you get better sleep and tackle sleep deprivation:
Create A Sleep-Friendly Environment: Think of your bedroom as a sanctuary for sleep. Make it cool, quiet, and dark. You could use earplugs, an eye mask, or a white noise machine if you find them helpful.
Our devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, can make it harder to fall asleep. Try to limit their use in the evening.
What you eat and drink can influence your sleep. Try to avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime.
Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and improve your sleep quality.
Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help you relax and manage stress, making it easier to fall asleep.
Certain supplements can help regulate sleep.
Keep in mind that good sleep is a long-term commitment, not a one-night stand. It might take some lifestyle changes and consistent effort. If you're still struggling with sleep after trying these tips, consider talking to a healthcare professional. Sleep disorders are common and can be treated, so don't hesitate to seek help.
By improving our sleep habits, we can all put up a good fight against the invisible troublemaker that is sleep deprivation. By doing so, we can reduce the risk of inflammation and boost our overall health and well-being. By making sleep a priority, we're taking a big step towards better health.
To sum it all up, a sporadic sleepless night might give our immune system a temporary boost, like a caffeine shot. It can put our bodies in a state of alert, ready to tackle threats. But if these sleepless nights become a habit, they can backfire, turning our immune response from a protective shield into a trigger for inflammation.
In the end, the benefits of getting a full night's rest far outweigh any perceived advantages of staying up late. As we continue to learn more about the intricate relationship between sleep and health, the call for a good night's sleep grows louder and clearer. By prioritizing sleep, we are choosing to support our bodies in the best possible way, aiding in everything from cognition and mood to metabolism and immunity.
Let's strive to get a full night's rest, not because it's a luxury, but because it's an essential aspect of our health. When we view sleep in this light, we begin to understand its fundamental role in maintaining our wellbeing. The benefits of prioritizing sleep far outweigh the fleeting benefits of burning the midnight oil.
So, let's switch off the lights, tuck ourselves in, and embark on the journey towards a healthier, sleep-rich future. By understanding the impact of sleep deprivation on systemic inflammation and taking steps to promote better sleep, we're taking a big step towards better health and well-being.
Quiet Please, the Extrapolent™ is our sleep formula that helps you get more shut-eye on a regular basis. Learn more about Quiet Please here. And for more information about the high-quality ingredients found in our products, read here.
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Hormonal acne is a common skin condition that affects many individuals, particularly women. It is caused by hormonal imbalances in the body, which can result in the overproduction of oil in the skin. This can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and inflammation. To manage hormonal acne, it is crucial to address the underlying hormonal imbalances, and there are various ways to do so. One way that can be easily incorporated into your lifestyle is by drinking more water.
Hormonal acne is a type of acne that is caused by hormonal imbalances in the body. Hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone can all affect the skin's oil production. When these hormones fluctuate or become imbalanced, they can cause the skin to produce excess oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Hormonal acne can be caused by a variety of factors, including puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. Hormonal imbalances can also be caused by stress, poor diet, and certain medications.
Hormones can affect your skin in different ways. Testosterone, for example, stimulates the oil glands in your skin, leading to increased oil production. Estrogen, on the other hand, helps to keep the skin hydrated and maintains its elasticity. Progesterone can cause inflammation and breakouts when there is too much of it in the body.
Drinking water is essential for maintaining overall health, and it is also crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Water helps to flush out toxins from the body, which can contribute to acne breakouts. It also helps to keep the skin hydrated, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
But did you know that hydration is not just about drinking water? It's also about the foods you eat. Fruits and vegetables, for example, are high in water content and can help keep your skin hydrated. Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocado and nuts, can also help keep your skin moisturized and healthy.
Water is essential for maintaining healthy skin as it helps to keep it hydrated. When your skin is hydrated, it is less likely to produce excess oil, reducing the risk of acne breakouts. Water also helps to flush out toxins from the body, which can contribute to acne breakouts.
In addition to drinking water, you can also use hydrating skincare products, such as moisturizers and facial mists, to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera, which can help lock in moisture and keep your skin looking plump and radiant.
Dehydration can lead to a variety of skin problems, including acne. When your body is dehydrated, it tries to compensate by producing more oil in the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Other signs of dehydration include dry, flaky skin, dark under-eye circles, and a dull complexion. To avoid dehydration, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat a balanced diet rich in hydrating foods.
In conclusion, hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin and preventing acne breakouts. Drink plenty of water, eat hydrating foods, and use hydrating skincare products to keep your skin looking its best.
Hormonal acne can be a frustrating and embarrassing condition to deal with. It can leave you feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable in your own skin. While there are many treatments available for hormonal acne, one of the simplest and most effective ways to combat it is by drinking more water.
Most people need to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. However, the amount of water you need may vary depending on your body weight, activity level, and climate. For example, if you live in a hot and humid climate, you may need to drink more water to stay adequately hydrated.
A good way to determine if you are drinking enough water is to check the color of your urine. If it is pale yellow, you are adequately hydrated. If it is dark yellow or amber, you may need to drink more water.
If you struggle to drink enough water throughout the day, there are several ways to increase your water intake. One way is to carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go, so you can sip on it throughout the day. This can help you stay hydrated without having to think about it too much.
Another way to increase your water intake is to infuse your water with fresh fruits and herbs to add flavor and make it more enjoyable to drink. Some popular combinations include lemon and mint, cucumber and basil, and strawberry and lime.
In addition to drinking water, you can also increase your water intake by eating hydrating foods. Some examples include watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries. These fruits and vegetables contain high water content, which can help to keep your skin hydrated.
Other hydrating foods to add to your diet include leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, as well as soups and broths. These foods not only help to keep your skin hydrated, but they also provide important nutrients and vitamins that can help to improve your overall health.
It's important to note that while drinking more water and eating hydrating foods can help to improve your skin, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you are struggling with hormonal acne, it's important to speak with a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining healthy skin. In addition to consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables, it is important to incorporate foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and chia seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to hormonal imbalances and acne breakouts. It is also important to limit your intake of processed foods and sugar, as these can cause spikes in insulin levels that can lead to acne.
Stress can cause hormonal imbalances in the body, leading to acne breakouts. Finding ways to manage stress, such as practicing yoga or meditation, can help to reduce the risk of hormonal acne. In addition to these practices, it is important to make time for self-care activities that you enjoy, such as reading a book or taking a relaxing bath.
A consistent skincare routine can help to keep your skin healthy and prevent acne breakouts. This includes cleansing your skin twice a day, using a toner to balance your skin's pH level, and moisturizing to keep your skin hydrated. It is also important to incorporate products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, as these can help to unclog pores and prevent acne. However, it is important to avoid overusing these products, as they can cause dryness and irritation.
Sleep is essential for overall health and can also have a significant impact on the health of your skin. Lack of sleep can cause hormonal imbalances, which can lead to acne breakouts. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help keep your hormones in balance and your skin clear.
Regular exercise can help to reduce stress levels and promote healthy hormone balance, which can help to prevent hormonal acne. Exercise also helps to improve circulation, which can help to keep your skin healthy and glowing. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day, such as brisk walking or cycling.
Hormonal acne is a common skin condition that affects many people, especially during adolescence and adulthood. It occurs when the body produces an excess of androgens, which can lead to the overproduction of sebum, or oil, in the skin. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to the formation of acne. While hormonal acne can be frustrating and embarrassing, there are ways to manage and treat it.
While mild to moderate hormonal acne can often be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments, severe acne may require professional intervention. If you are experiencing severe acne breakouts that do not improve with lifestyle changes, you may need to seek professional help. Severe hormonal acne can be painful, inflamed, and leave scars. It is important to have it assessed by a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment.
A dermatologist can help to identify the underlying cause of your acne and recommend a personalized treatment plan. They may also be able to prescribe medications that are not available over-the-counter, such as topical or oral antibiotics, which can help to reduce inflammation and prevent scarring.
If you have persistent hormonal acne, there are several treatment options available. Treatment options for hormonal acne typically include medications such as birth control pills, spironolactone, and isotretinoin. These medications treat symptoms but not the root cause of hormonal imbalances.
Birth control pills are often prescribed to women with hormonal acne. They work by regulating hormone levels and reducing the amount of androgens in the body. Spironolactone is another medication that can be effective in treating hormonal acne. It works by blocking the effects of androgens on the skin, reducing oil production and preventing breakouts. Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane, is a powerful medication that is reserved for severe cases of acne. It works by reducing oil production and shrinking the size of oil glands in the skin.
It is important to note that while medications like birth control pills, spironolactone, and isotretinoin can be prescribed for severe cases of hormonal acne, they may come with potential side effects. As a result, it is often recommended to explore natural remedies and lifestyle changes as a first-line approach before considering medication. Natural solutions not only aim to address the root causes of hormonal imbalances but also promote overall well-being and skin health without the risk of adverse effects.Natural remedies often focus on nourishing the body with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation.
In conclusion, while hormonal acne can be frustrating and difficult to manage. By seeking out holistic solutions like Acne Be Gone and making lifestyle changes, such as drinking more water and maintaining a healthy diet, you can take proactive steps in combating hormonal acne and achieving healthy, clear skin.
Hey, beautiful souls! We all know that stress is an unavoidable part of life, and unfortunately, it can take a toll on our skin health. Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of the skin barrier function and how stress affects it, particularly in relation to acne. By understanding this connection, we can take steps to nourish our skin and enhance our overall well-being. So, let's get started on this journey to radiant skin!
Our skin is our largest organ and plays a vital role in protecting us from the outside world. At the heart of this defense system is the skin barrier. This complex structure acts as a shield that safeguards our body from external threats such as allergens, irritants, and infections, while also maintaining hydration and overall skin health.
The skin barrier consists of several components that work together in harmony:
When we're stressed, our body releases hormones like cortisol that can wreak havoc on our skin barrier in several ways:
Now that we've explored the connection between stress and our skin barrier, let's discuss some practical steps we can take to improve skin health and reduce acne:
Understanding the relationship between stress, skin barrier function, and acne is key to adopting a holistic approach to skincare and overall well-being. By implementing the suggested steps to improve skin health and manage stress, you'll be on your way to radiant, glowing skin that reflects your inner beauty. Remember, nurturing your body, mind, and soul is the foundation for a healthy and vibrant life. Keep shining, lovelies!
Acne Be Gone is a game-changer for those looking to improve their acne and achieve clearer, more radiant skin. This unique, all-natural supplement is specifically formulated to target the root causes of acne, such as inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and compromised skin barrier function. Packed with a powerful blend of essential nutrients, antioxidants, and botanical extracts, Acne Be Gone works synergistically to soothe inflammation, regulate sebum production, and support the skin's natural healing process. By incorporating Acne Be Gone into your daily wellness routine, you're not only giving your skin the nourishment it needs to thrive but also embracing a holistic approach to skin health that can transform your complexion from the inside out. Experience the difference Acne Be Gone can make and say hello to a more confident, glowing you!
Just Breathe is a remarkable stress-relief supplement designed to help you manage daily stressors and support your journey to clearer, healthier skin. Stress is known to be a significant contributor to acne development, and Just Breathe's carefully crafted formula addresses this issue at its core. Infused with a potent blend of adaptogenic herbs, vitamins, and minerals, Just Breathe works to balance stress hormones, promote relaxation, and enhance mental clarity. By incorporating Just Breathe into your wellness regimen, you're actively tackling one of the primary triggers of acne while fostering a sense of calm and well-being. Experience the transformative power of Just Breathe and embrace a more centered, stress-free life, which in turn paves the way to improved skin health and a radiant, blemish-free complexion.
]]>Mounting evidence suggests that the gut-skin axis is a real thing, and that nutrient malabsorption may play a role in the pathophysiology of acne.
Factors like antibiotic use, psychological and physical stress, and diet can all adversely affect the gut microbiome, leading to gut dysbiosis. Luckily, there are things we can do to support our gut microbiome!
In this blog post, we will discuss how the gut-skin axis works and how probiotic supplementation, prebiotics, and a healthy diet can help support gut health and clear skin.
Let's begin by defining some of the fundamental terms at play.
A microbiome is a population of bacteria and other microorganisms living in our bodies. The gut microbiome specifically refers to the population of microorganisms living in our gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms play a role in digesting food, producing vitamins and minerals, and keeping harmful bacteria in check.
Commensal bacteria are microorganisms that live in symbiosis with their host. In other words, they benefit from the relationship but do not harm their host. The majority of commensal bacteria are harmless, and some are even beneficial to their host.
Gut dysbiosis is an imbalance in the composition of the gut microbiome. This can be caused by many factors, including antibiotic use, stress, diet, and more. Gut dysbiosis has been linked to a variety of chronic health conditions, including skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
The gut-skin axis is the name given to the relationship between the gut microbiome and the skin microbiome.
The microbiome plays a role in this communication, as it is thought to modulate immune responses and inflammation. In turn, these processes can impact the health of the skin.
For example, research has shown that dysbiosis (an imbalance in the gut microbiome) can lead to increased intestinal permeability, or "leaky gut." This allows bacteria and other microorganisms to enter the bloodstream, which can trigger an inflammatory response which can have a ripple effect through the body. Inflammation is a key factor in the development of chronic skin disorders like acne.
This connection works both ways; gut dysbiosis (an imbalance in the gut microbiome) can lead to skin problems, and vice versa.
There are several mechanisms by which the gut-skin axis works. One is through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by gut bacteria. SCFAs can be used by the body for energy. They also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, both of which are beneficial for skin health.
Another way the gut-skin axis works is through the immune system. The gut microbiome helps to train the immune system and keep it functioning properly. When the gut microbiome is out of balance, the immune system may become dysregulated, leading to inflammation. This inflammation can manifest as chronic skin conditions such as acne.
Finally, the gut-skin axis works through the nervous system. The gut and skin are both innervated by the nervous system, and the gut microbiome can influence the activity of the nervous system. For example, studies have shown that stress can alter the gut microbiome, which in turn can lead to inflammation and skin problems.
Malabsorption is a condition in which the body does not absorb nutrients properly. When malabsorption occurs, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies and gut dysbiosis. Malabsorption is thought to play a role in the development of acne, as bacterial overgrowth competes with the host for nutrients and impairs absorption of macro and micronutrients.
There are several factors associated with a modern, Western lifestyle that can contribute to gut dysbiosis and the development of acne. These include:
Antibiotics are often used to treat acne, but they can also disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms in the gut, leading to gut dysbiosis.
Psychological and physical stress can adversely affect the gut microbiome, leading to gut dysbiosis.
A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote the growth of unhealthy bacteria in the gut and lead to gut dysbiosis.
There is evidence to suggest that both dysbiosis and malabsorption can lead to each other. In one study, it was found that patients with acne had a higher rate of malabsorption than those without acne. In another study, it was found that patients with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) – a form of gut dysbiosis – were more likely to have deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K).
You know the saying "It's all connected"? Well, it is! And this is why unravelling the mystery of your acne can be so challenging. It's complicated!
There are several ways in which gut dysbiosis can affect acne:
Bacterial overgrowth in the gut can compete with the host for nutrients and lead to malabsorption of essential macro- and micronutrients. This can adversely affect the skin, leading to inflammation and the development of acne.
Gut dysbiosis can lead to increased intestinal permeability, or "leaky gut." This allows bacteria and other toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering an inflammatory response. This inflammation can exacerbate acne.
Some research suggests that gut dysbiosis may lead to a hormonal imbalance, which can trigger or worsen acne.
Probiotic supplementation may be an effective treatment for acne by restoring gut microbiota balance and improving intestinal barrier function. Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer health benefits when consumed. They are often referred to as "good" or "friendly" bacteria because they help to keep the gut microbiome in balance.
Prebiotics are non-digestible fiber compounds that serve as food for probiotics. They help to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut and can also help to improve gut barrier function.
There are a number of food items that contain prebiotics and can help to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. These include:
Bananas contain a type of soluble fiber called pectin, which serves as food for probiotics.
Garlic contains a prebiotic called allicin, which has been shown to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Oats are a source of soluble fiber, and they also contain a type of prebiotic called beta-glucan. Beta-glucan has been shown to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Apples contain a type of soluble fiber called pectin, which serves as food for probiotics.
Flaxseeds are a source of soluble fiber, and they also contain a type of prebiotic called lignans. Lignans have been shown to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Including these food items in your diet may help to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut and improve gut barrier function. This, in turn, may help to reduce inflammation and the severity of acne.
In addition to prebiotic-containing foods, certain herbs have also been shown to help support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. These include:
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Ginger is an anti-inflammatory herb that has been found to help support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that has been found to help promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Licorice root contains a compound called glycyrrhizic acid, which has been shown to help promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Fennel is an anti-inflammatory herb that has been found to help promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
A combination of probiotics, prebiotics and herbs may help to restore balance to the gut microbiome, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. Incorporating these nutrients into your diet can help to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut and improve gut barrier function, which may lead to improved skin.
In conclusion, research suggests that the gut-skin axis is an important area to consider when addressing chronic skin conditions such as acne. The body of evidence indicates that nutrient malabsorption and gut dysbiosis play a role in the development of acne, and that probiotic supplementation, prebiotic-containing foods, and herbs may be helpful in restoring balance to the gut microbiome, reducing inflammation, and improving skin health.
Overall, it is important to consider the impact of diet and lifestyle on gut function and its microbiome when addressing chronic skin conditions such as acne.
If all of this feels overwhelming, do not fret! Acne Be Gone is here to help by detoxing the liver, reducing redness and inflammation, and balancing oil production.
Need help navigating your skin challenges? Learn more about Dr Colette and Skin Revolution!
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Do you have acne on your jawline? If so, you're not alone. Many people suffer from this type of acne, and it can be difficult to get rid of. In this guide, we will talk about the causes of jawline pimples and how to get rid of them. We will also discuss some prevention tips that will help keep your jawline acne-free!
Have you ever noticed that you tend to break out in the same spot on your chin or jawline? Why is that? Well, there are a few reasons. First of all, the skin on your chin and jawline is much thicker than the skin on the rest of your face. This means that it's more susceptible to breakouts.
Additionally, the oils produced by your skin are heavier, so they tend to collect in this area, trap dead skin cells and clog pores. Lastly, this area of your face is in contact with a lot of external irritants, such as your cellphone or pillowcase. All of these factors can contribute to breakouts on your chin and jawline.
Pimples on the jawline, also called jawline acne, are a type of acne that appears along the jawline. This can be caused by several things, including hormones, genetics, and even stress. Whatever the cause, pimples on the jawline can be frustrating and difficult to get rid of.
There are a few things that can contribute to jawline acne. One of the most common causes is hormones. When our bodies produce excess oil, it can block pores and lead to breakouts. This is why hormonal acne is often worse during puberty or other hormonal changes.
Breakouts before your period can be frustrating. But there's a reason why you get them-and thankfully, there are things you can do to help prevent them. First, it's important to understand that breakouts around the time of your period are caused by hormonal changes.
Just before your period, your body produces more of the hormone progesterone. This increase in progesterone can cause your oil glands to produce more oil, which can lead to breakouts. Additionally, higher levels of progesterone can cause inflammation, which can also contribute to breakouts.
Acne prone skin can also be caused by genetics. If your parents or grandparents had acne, you may be more likely to develop it as well. And finally, stress can also contribute to jawline acne. When we're stressed, our bodies produce more hormones, which can lead to breakouts.
If you're struggling with jawline acne, don't despair! There are a few things you can do to get rid of it.
There are a few things you can do to get rid of jawline acne. One of the most important things is to keep your skin clean. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Avoid scrubbing your face, as this can irritate your skin and make breakouts worse.
In addition to cleansing, you can also use topical treatments to get rid of acne. Look for products that contain salicylic acid, as these ingredients can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Apply these treatments to your jawline pimples and blemishes, and you should see a difference within a few days.
Benzoyl peroxide is harsh on the skin, so it isn't my go-to recommendation for acne. But, if you've tried everything else and nothing has worked, it may be worth a try. Just make sure to use it sparingly and follow the directions on the package.
If your acne is severe or you're not having much luck with topical treatments, you may also want to consider oral options. These can help to regulate hormones and reduce inflammation.
For years, antibiotics have been a go-to acne treatment. But recent peer-reviewed studies suggest that this may not be the best approach. Oral antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that cause acne, but they also kill the good bacteria that live on the skin. This can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. In addition, long-term use of antibiotics can increase the risk of developing resistance. This means that the bacteria may become more difficult to treat in the future.
Antibiotics can interact with other medications. Additionally, they can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. So while oral antibiotics can be effective in the short-term, they may do more harm than good in the long run.
Breakouts are never fun. They can be painful, embarrassing, and just generally frustrating. For many people, acne is a chronic problem that requires ongoing treatment.
Accutane is one option that dermatologists often prescribe for treating breakouts. However, Accutane can also have some serious side effects. Some of the most common side effects include dry skin, dry eyes, and joint pain. In rare cases, Accutane has also been linked to an increased risk of depression and Crohn's disease.
As a result, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of Accutane before starting treatment. I strongly encourage people to seek out natural solutions, particularly those that address the underlying root causes. Rebalancing your health and your skin is the best of both worlds!
There are a few home remedies that can treat acne. One popular option is to make a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply this paste to your jawline pimples and let it sit for a few minutes before washing it off.
You can also try using lemon juice as a spot treatment for acne. Simply apply a small amount of lemon juice to a cotton ball and dab it on your pimples. Let the lemon juice dry and then rinse it off with warm water.
Finally, you can also try using apple cider vinegar as a toner for your skin. Apply it to a cotton ball and wipe it over your entire face, or just use it on your jawline. Apple cider vinegar can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
There are plenty of acne mask recipes out there, but not all of them are effective. If you want to get rid of your acne, you need to use a mask that is made with ingredients that will target the root cause of your skin problems.
One effective DIY acne mask recipe includes bentonite clay, green tea extract, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Bentonite clay helps to detoxify skin, Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties, and honey helps to soothe skin and clear pores.
To use this mask, simply mix the ingredients and apply them to your face. Leave the mask on for 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. You should notice a difference in your skin after just one use!
If you're struggling with recurring chin acne, there may be a chronic underlying cause. One possibility is a hormonal imbalance, particularly if you notice the breakouts during the same time of your menstrual cycle each month. This can be caused by several things, including stress, diet, and even certain medical conditions. If you think your jawline acne may be due to a hormonal imbalance, consider delving deeper to discover the root cause. Reminder: Birth control pills can disrupt the body's natural hormonal balance.
Another possibility is that your acne is caused by problems with your digestive system. This can happen when there's an imbalance of good and bad bacteria, and other microbes, in your gut. Poor digestion can lead to toxins building up in your body. These toxins can then make their way to the surface of your skin and cause breakouts. Probiotics can help to restore balance and may reduce acne breakouts.
There are a few other potential causes of jawline pimples, but the these two of the most common. If you're struggling with jawline acne, try to rule out any underlying causes and find the best treatment option for you. Topical products like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide don't always work as your acne-causing imbalances really do manifest from internal imbalances.
Keep in mind that acne is usually not a serious condition, but it can be frustrating. Sometimes piecing together all of the variables of our health profile can seem like a daunting task. Try keeping a daily health journal. Look back at it periodically to see if you can find patterns.
Diet can definitely play a role in pimples on jawline. Foods that are high in sugar and refined carbs can cause blood sugar spikes, which can lead to inflammation and acne. dairy, soy, and gluten can also be inflammatory and may trigger breakouts. If you notice that certain foods seem to contribute to your jawline acne, try eliminating them from your diet and see if your skin clears up.
Watch your diet before your period as well. A week or two before your period, you might want to avoid the foods listed above. They can all contribute to inflammation, which can make jawline acne breakouts worse.
In general, eating a healthy diet that's high in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help to reduce inflammation and keep your skin clear. And, of course, drinking plenty of water is always good for your skin!
Jawline blemishes are common problem, but that doesn't mean it has to be a source of embarrassment. With the right information and products, you can clear up your jawline acne and feel confident in your skin.
Remember, don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. These things take time and everyone's skin is different. Keep at it and you'll eventually find something that works for you.
I hope this guide was helpful for you! If you have any questions or want more advice, don't hesitate to reach out on social media. Thanks for reading!
I've heard many stories from patients regarding the treatments they have tried. The best way of treating acne woes is by addressing the entire acne complex and rebalancing your internal ecosystem.
This means detoxifying the liver, recalibrating oil production in the sebaceous glands, and reducing heat which causes redness/ inflammation and acne-causing bacterial imbalances. I combine eastern herbs with western vitamins. Some ingredients are fast-acting while others work at a deeper level and are slower-acting.
The result is a rapid solution, regardless of the type of acne, while also restoring balance deeper within oneself where healing happens most efficiently; not only on top surface levels like many medications do today.
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You might be buying the best topical skin products money can buy, but they can’t guarantee you won’t break out. Your skin’s health and radiance aren’t created by the chemicals you put on it. You need to pay attention to what’s happening underneath your skin and inside your body.
Healthy skin is a result of a healthy body. You can have an amazing glow without the use of products. Here are seven healthy habits you can follow to improve your skin’s health and overall health as well:
Have you ever noticed how sweets tend to give you acne breakouts? That’s because high blood sugar levels can often lead to skin inflammation. That’s not something that topical skin products can address. Instead, you can incorporate fiber-rich foods to help you combat breakouts. Since fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels, it can help you get the healthy skin you’ve been looking for! Here are a few fiber-rich foods you can try:
Whether it’s bread, pasta, or rice, carbs can be a great source of fiber. In addition to fighting acne, they can also help your body fight cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more!
Berries, especially blueberries and raspberries, are incredibly rich in fiber. They’re also incredibly convenient to eat. You can bring them around as snacks as well as blend them into smoothies!
These little seeds are incredibly rich in fiber and many other nutrients. There are many ways to consume them as well, such as by baking them into treats or sprinkling them over smoothies.
Stomach problems are directly linked to your skin’s health. Unfortunately, topical skin products can’t help your indigestion. That’s what probiotics are for! These are cultivated microorganisms that help your body fight problems in your gut area. Here are three probiotic foods you can incorporate into your diet:
Probably the first food people think of when the term “probiotics” is mentioned. It is made from milk, so it also provides calcium and improves bone health. It is also suitable for those with lactose intolerance as the microorganisms turn lactose into lactic acid.
Sauerkraut is a traditional Eastern European food. It is finely shredded cabbage fermented by lactic acid bacteria, rich in antioxidants.
Being a fermented food, sauerkraut is easier to digest than typical food and improves your immune system as well. Incorporating fermented foods into your diet isn’t just good for your skin’s health, but for your general health as well.
This Korean side dish, like sauerkraut, is traditionally made from fermented cabbage. However, it is also mixed with seasonings such as pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger. This gives makes kimchi a great choice for people looking for probiotic foods with a spicy kick.
Kimchi is full of nutrients. A single cup of kimchi can contain over a dozen nutrients that can help your body. The dish is also linked to reducing inflammation, preventing yeast infections, and aiding weight loss. It’s quite simple to make at home.
Microorganisms can also cause acne breakouts. While topical skin products can clear your skin from any external bacteria and dirt, they can’t do much for the microorganisms inside your body. For the organisms already inside you, you can eat foods with antioxidants to combat them, and maintain your immune system health.
Antioxidants are compounds in your body that can help fight these harmful organisms. In turn, eating them often helps your skin look much more healthy–without the need for skin products! Here are three foods rich in antioxidants that you can incorporate into your diet:
Blueberries have the highest amount of antioxidants in the fruits and vegetables you can find at your local grocery store. They’re also low in calories and full of other nutrients which makes them a healthy snack! Sometimes, you need to change your diet to get better skin without skin products.
These legumes are among the best vegetable sources of antioxidants. Some beans, such as pinto beans, contain a certain antioxidant named kaempferol, which has been linked to several other benefits including cancer growth suppression.
These nuts are a great source of healthy nutrients and contain a high amount of antioxidants. In fact, pecans are incredibly dense in nutrients for the number of calories they provide. Some even claim that they’re the best nut source of antioxidants.
You can use moisturizer to help your skin look healthy, but constantly doing this will dry out your skin over time. To keep your skin from drying out too often, you should drink water frequently. The average person is actually chronically dehydrated, so you might need to drink more water than you’re already taking. This is how you can keep your skin looking hydrated without products.
As mentioned previously, high sugar levels can cause skin inflammations that topical solutions can’t directly address. By indulging in fewer sweets, you can also reduce the chances of an acne breakout. A slice of cake every once in a while is fine, but you generally don’t want to consume too much sugar.
Topical skin products can only do so much for your skin when pulling all-nighters four times a week. Stress weakens your immune system, which can then lead to severe acne breakouts. If you want to experience fewer breakouts, you can try to decrease your feelings of stress. Here are three ways you can lower your stress levels.
Ideally, you should be sleeping for 6 to 8 hours every night. This will help your body rest enough to take on the following day. You may also find that your mood improves when you consistently get quality sleep over time.
There’s a reason people need their beauty sleep! Sleep also helps your body regenerate and repair damaged skin. With enough sleep, you can have amazing skin without products.
Regular exercise has numerous benefits, including decreased stress and a healthier immune system. When you exercise regularly, your body and mind become more resilient, resulting in handling stress much better. Just be sure to change out of your sweaty clothes after every hard workout, as this can be detrimental to your skin’s health.
Find something that you can do every day that helps you destress. Some people write in a journal, meditate, read a book, or do all three. It’s crucial that you find something that helps you destress and works for you.
Stress affects more than just your skin health. If you want to know how else stress can affect you, check out our article on how it affects your immune system.
If you’re not in complete control of your diet or simply don’t want to make drastic changes, you can always take dietary supplements. These are easy to take and can help give your body the extra nutrients it needs to get that fantastic glowing skin.
At Balance Blends, we make a supplement that can help you beat acne and get the glow you want, Acne Be Gone. This blend is made using herbs traditionally used to treat internal imbalances in Eastern countries, which can lead to clear, fresh, and acne-free skin.
Those are seven alternatives to topical skin products that can address the internal reasons for your breakouts. Following these tips can give you acne-free skin without the use of topical products in no time!
While acne is most common in teenagers, it is still a real problem for adult women. If you’re encountering adult acne breakouts more than you should, you should also check out my article on the topic.
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The most common locations are the face, chest, and back. Facial acne is the most visible type of acne and can be very embarrassing. Chest and back acne are often hidden under clothes, but can still be uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are many treatments available for acne. With patience and persistence, it is possible to achieve clear skin.
The symptoms of acne vary depending on the type. However, the most common symptoms are blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts.
Blackheads are small, dark bumps that form when the pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Whiteheads are similar to blackheads, but are larger and have a white head. Pimples are small, red, inflamed blemishes that can be painful. Cysts are large, pus-filled bumps that can be very painful and lead to scarring.
Acne blemishes can range from mild to severe. There are different types of acne, which can be categorized by how they form. The two main types of acne are inflammatory and noninflammatory acne.
Inflammatory acne is the type of acne that most people are familiar with and is more severe. It typically manifests as red, swollen bumps on the skin's surface, and can be quite painful.
There are several different types of inflammatory acne, including papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. These forms of acne are caused by inflammation of the hair follicles, which can be triggered by several different factors, including hormones, bacteria, and excess sebum production. Acne vulgaris and cystic acne are common types of inflammatory acne.
Noninflammatory acne develops due to a build-up of oil and dead skin cells, but without the bacteria. If these blockages become infected with bacteria, they may become inflamed.
Anyone who's ever had a pimple knows that they seem to pop up at the most inconvenient times. But what causes acne? While there can be many triggers, there are a few common culprits.
Hormonal changes, for example, can cause an increase in oil production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Diet can also be a factor; foods high in sugar and dairy have been linked to flare-ups. And, of course, stress doesn't help either. When we're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, our bodies produce more of the hormone cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and breakouts.
So next time you're reaching for that ice cream or a candy bar, remember that it might not be doing your skin any favors. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to fight acne, so don't despair if you're dealing with a few blemishes. With a little patience and the right products, you'll be on your way to clear skin in no time.
Like many things in life, acne can be hereditary. If your parents or grandparents had severe acne, there's a chance you will too. . For example, if your parents had high levels of hormones that stimulated excess oil production, you're more likely to have the same problem. Similarly, if your family is prone to bacterial infections, you may be more likely to develop acne. Knowing this information can help you take steps to avoid or limit the effects of acne.
There are many different ways to get rid of acne blemishes, but some methods are more effective than others. Some common methods include over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, home remedies, and natural treatments.
There are many treatments for acne, which can be divided into two main categories: topical treatments such, as salicylic acid, and oral medications. Topical treatments are applied to the skin and include creams, gels, and lotions. Oral medications are taken by mouth and include antibiotics and hormonal agents.
If you've ever had a pimple, you know the drill: find the nearest over-the-counter, drug store acne treatment, and start slathering it on. But what you may not know is that these treatments can come with some pretty unpleasant side effects. For example, many acne treatments contain benzoyl peroxide, which can dry out your skin and make it more susceptible to sun damage.
Similarly, salicylic acid can cause redness, irritation, and flaking. And if you're using an over-the-counter retinol product, you may experience redness, irritation, peeling, and dryness. So what's a blemish-prone person to do? First, consider trying a gentler approach: wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser, and use a light moisturizer. And when it comes to over-the-counter treatments, start with a small amount and increase as needed - your skin will thank you for it.
Some home remedies can speed up the healing process, such as using ice to reduce swelling, using a warm compress to open up pores, and using a gentle exfoliating scrub.
If you're one of the many people who suffer from severe acne, you've probably tried a variety of over-the-counter treatments such as salicylic acid with varying degrees of success. For some, the next step is to see a dermatologist and get a prescription acne medication.
These treatments can be effective, but they also come with the risk of side effects. This can lead to irritation and discomfort, especially if the medication is used for an extended period. Other potential side effects include increased sensitivity to sunlight, burning, stinging, or tingling of the skin. In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as changes in skin color, hives, blisters, anxiety, depression, and breathing difficulties. Antibiotics can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and yeast infections.
If you're one of the many people struggling with acne, you might be surprised to learn that your birth control could be to blame. While oral contraceptives are often prescribed as a way to help regulate hormones and clear up breakouts, they can have the opposite effect on some people. It's all about finding the right balance of hormones for your body, and sometimes that can take a little trial and error. If you think your birth control is making your acne worse, talk to your doctor about other options.
If you experience any of these side effects, you should speak to your doctor. Acne treatments can be effective, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks before starting any medication. For some people, the potential side effects are worth it for the sake of clear skin. For others, they prefer to stick with more natural methods.
Acne can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. If left untreated, acne usually goes away within a few weeks to a few months. The good news is that there are things that can be done to help prevent breakouts or minimize the duration.
Firstly, it is important to keep the skin clean. This means using a gentle cleanser and avoiding scrubbing the face harshly. Secondly, it is important to avoid picking at the skin or squeezing pimples or clogged pores, as this can lead to scars. Finally, it is important to avoid touching the face, as this can transfer bacteria, oils, and dirt from the hands to the face.
By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
Many people are familiar with the occasional pimple or zit, but for some, severe acne is a constant battle. Many triggers can cause an acne flare-up, including stress, hormones, diet, and certain medications. To control acne, it is important to identify the causes and develop a plan to minimize the triggers.
For example, if stress is a trigger, taking steps to reduce stress levels through exercise, relaxation techniques, or counseling can help. If dietary changes are necessary, eliminating processed foods and increasing the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables can make a big difference.
Understanding triggers and taking action to avoid them can help control acne and achieve clear skin.
Anyone who's ever had a pimple knows that acne is more than just a skin condition - it can also be a major source of anxiety and insecurity. But what many people don't realize is that there's a strong psychological component to severe acne. Studies have shown that stress, anxiety, and negative body image can all contribute to breakouts.
When the body is under stress, it produces hormones that can lead to an increase in sebum production. Sebum is a type of oil that helps to keep the skin moisturized. However, too much sebum can clog pores with dead skin cells and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. As a result, stress and anxiety can cause acne flare-ups. Additionally, people who are prone to anxiety and stress may be more likely to pick at their skin, which can also cause inflammation and lead to breakouts.
In fact, some research suggests that the psychological impact of acne may be even greater than the physical effects. This means that treating acne requires more than just using topical creams - it also requires addressing the underlying psychological triggers. Only by addressing both the physical and psychological causes of acne can you hope to achieve clear skin.
I've heard many stories from patients regarding the treatments they have tried. The best way of treating acne woes is by addressing the entire acne complex and rebalancing your internal ecosystem.
This means detoxifying the liver, recalibrating oil production in the sebaceous glands, and reducing heat which causes redness/ inflammation and acne-causing bacterial imbalances. I combine eastern medicine, Ayurveda, and functional medicine. Some ingredients are fast-acting while others work at a deeper level and are slower-acting.
The result is a rapid solution, regardless of the type of acne, while also restoring balance deeper within oneself where healing happens most efficiently; not only on top surface levels like many medications do today.
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In the context of Eastern medicine, Chi (or Qi) is the energy that flows throughout your body, providing everything that it needs to be whole. It is the energy that makes up everything we consume, such as the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe.
As Chi is your body’s life energy, it needs to flow for your body to function properly. When your Chi flows freely within your body, your body will feel normal. However, should the flow of Chi within your body be disrupted or become out of balance for any reason, this will have negative consequences on your well-being.
If your Chi is out of balance, then you can expect certain symptoms, including:
When Chi flows properly, it provides energy throughout your body. When this flow is disrupted, your body will naturally feel much more tired because of the lack of energy being provided.
Your physical strength will not be the only part of yourself that will be weakened by an imbalance in Chi flow. When your Chi is disrupted, you will also likely feel much more irritable and affected by inconveniences that would not normally bother you.
An imbalance of Chi will affect your sleeping patterns as well. When your flow of Chi is disrupted, you may find it harder to fall asleep or have continuous sleep.
If you need help getting better sleep, check out our article on the topic!
Yes. Even if you’re not overeating and working out regularly, your Chi may still be disrupted and affect your general well-being. Here are five common causes of Chi imbalance:
You may not be overeating or undereating, but what foods are you choosing to put inside your body? Not all food promotes good Chi flow. Some foods to avoid if you care about your Chi are fried foods, salty foods, and dairy products.
Regular exercise is essential if you want to keep your Chi balanced and live a healthy lifestyle. However, you may end up disrupting your Chi if you overdo it. If you find yourself overexerting your body often, you may be causing your body to produce too much Chi. While Chi does help the body, too much of it will cause your body to feel tenser and more stressed.
Everything that your body takes in affects your Chi, and this includes emotional stressors. Problems at home or at work, issues with your relationships, and life, in general, can cause a lot of stress. Bringing balance back to your Chi means addressing these stressors and finding ways to remove them or minimize their effects on you.
Your body needs rest to be able to function properly. A good night’s sleep is how your body resets and prepares itself for the next day. When your body doesn’t receive the rest it needs, it affects how well Chi flows within it.
You may be living a healthy lifestyle, but how clean is your living space? A polluted environment can greatly affect your body’s flow of Chi. Your body needs clean air to help Chi circulate through it. Without clean air, your Chi flow will be disrupted, and this makes it much harder for your body to gain the most benefits.
A disrupted Chi flow, like all imbalances, can be corrected. If you feel your Chi is imbalanced, there are a handful of ways to give your body a reset. These include:
Techniques such as Tai Chi, Qigong, and Yoga are great ways to get exercise without overexerting your body. These ancient techniques have been used to promote better overall balance, both physically and spiritually, while also relieving stress and tension.
Interested in finding out more benefits of Mind-Body techniques? You can read more about them in our article here.
Getting sufficient sleep is one of the most important steps to promoting good Chi flow. Aim to have at least eight hours of sleep every night to maintain your energy levels optimally..
You can also implement certain other practices to get better sleep at night as well. Reducing exposure to blue light, such as that from computer or phone screens, will help you condition your mind and to fall asleep easier. Reading a book before going to bed can also help your mind prepare for a good night’s rest.
For one reason or another, you may not have full control over your diet. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a way for you to get the right Chi-promoting nutrients you need. There are supplements, like Balance Blends, that can be taken to give your body the energy it needs.
To correct your Chi flow and improve your well-being, you must focus on finding the causes of your imbalances and not just addressing the symptoms. If you can do this while also leading a healthy lifestyle, then you will find that your energy stays strong and that you feel ready to handle anything that comes your way.
If you want to boost your Chi to protect yourself from sickness, you should check out our Force Field capsules. They’re an all-natural immunity-boosting blend that helps nourish your body and fortifies your disease-fighting defenses.
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The energizing season of spring is the perfect time of year to relax and shake off the stress of winter. Coincidentally, both National Stress Awareness Month (April) and Mental Health Awareness Month (May) happen during this season. Since stress affects your immune system, you have to manage it for your physical and mental well-being.
When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol. This hormone helps your body manage how you sleep and fight-or-flight reactions. When your body produces too much cortisol, it can easily affect your actions and decision-making.
When you’re stressed out, it will affect both your body. You’ll find yourself feeling more tired and sluggish than usual. Stress also affects your mind, as you might also find yourself being more forgetful and irritable. If you’re overly stressed, it can manifest in several other ways, including:
Stress affects your body and immune system in many ways. One of the most significant signs of stress is a change in your sleep patterns. These issues change from person to person. Some people may experience difficulty falling asleep, while others may find themselves having a hard time getting continuous sleep. Unfortunately, these sleep issues can lead to even more stress as quality sleep is necessary to have the energy you need.
If you’ve been experiencing sleep issues, you may want to read our article on getting better sleep.
While stress doesn’t cause all colds, your body becomes more susceptible to colds when you’re under stress. You’ll know that you’ve caught a cold if your sinuses don’t feel right, you have a fever, and your body generally feels weak.
One of the many ways stress affects your immune system is increasing your blood pressure. While you may not immediately feel its effects, high blood pressure can be hazardous to your overall health. Having a higher blood pressure means your heart has to work much harder than it has to, which can lead to heart attacks.
Too much cortisol production within your body can affect your stomach as well. It can increase the amount of acid within your stomach, causing abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion.
If your body feels constantly tired, even after just waking up, it could be a sign that you’re overly stressed. When fatigued, your body will feel heavier, slower, and more easily drained of energy. You may also find your mind feeling tired, making it harder to remember things.
If you’ve been experiencing any of the effects listed, you might need a lifestyle change. There are all kinds of ways to reduce stress naturally. Here are a handful of things you can do:
Regular exercise can benefit you in many ways. When you exercise, watching your body grow and develop will boost your confidence and make you feel more energized throughout most days. Whether you’re going for a daily jog, doing yoga, or hitting the gym, regular physical activity will help eliminate stress.
Journaling is an excellent method for managing the ways stress affects your mental health and immune system. Journaling your thoughts provides you with an emotional outlet for all of your thoughts and feelings. If you don’t know what’s causing your stress, it can also help you identify them, like problems at work or home.
With how busy everyday life can get, you might forget to take a moment to breathe. Meditation is a great way to reflect on your day and clear your mind of your problems, even for just a minute.
Remember to be good to yourself when life offers you more challenges than you can handle. Treating yourself with a nice meal, some new clothes, or an out-of-town trip can be a great way to boost your emotional energy.
Herbal supplements and alternative medicine have long been used worldwide, especially in Eastern countries. Today, there are herbal supplements specifically blended to help your body combat the effects of stress and boost your immune system.
If you want to use herbal supplements, ensure you get the highest quality ones. The only way to ensure this is to source your supplements from an expert. Check out this article for more information.
Having some stress is a good thing. It helps you overcome your everyday challenges and motivates you to reach your goals and live your best life. Too much stress, however, can prevent you from enjoying life altogether.
When you’re not stressed, your life improves so much. You’ll have more energy throughout the day to handle challenges. Being stress-free also gives you more emotional energy to let you face these problems without being disheartened. Finally, you’ll have mental clarity, which helps you make better decisions every day.
If you’re looking for an easy remedy for stress, check out our Just Breathe - Natural stress remedy capsules! These capsules were made with high-quality ingredients to calm your mind, improve your sleep, and make your day better.
If you liked what you read, you can find more articles. Check them all out here.
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Spring fatigue isn’t an illness but a phenomenon that can happen to you during the early days of the season. It occurs because the human body needs time to adjust to changes in the environment.
Spring fatigue occurs because of the seasonal shift from winter to spring. You might feel particularly sleepier during December, January, and February. This is because you produce more melatonin during the winter months, the hormone that regulates sleep. Melatonin production signals your body to sleep thus producing more of it will make you sleepier.
On the other hand, your body will produce more serotonin during spring - commonly known as the happiness hormone. This means you will feel more lively during May, April, and early June.
However, your body will need time to adjust from producing more melatonin to producing more serotonin. It is during this adjustment period that you’ll experience spring fatigue.
Thankfully, spring fatigue typically only lasts during the earliest days of the season. Once your body has fully adjusted, you’ll feel more energetic. If you want to speed up the adjustment process, you first have to get rid of winter fatigue.
You can lessen the impact of spring fatigue if you prepare yourself for the change in the environment during the last few days of winter. Before spring arrives, you should:
Get out of bed earlier
It’s also been proven that after a certain number of hours, the more time you spend sleeping, the more tired you get. Even if it feels especially good to sleep in during winter, you should try to get out of bed earlier to avoid spring fatigue. Sleeping just enough hours during the day will make you feel more energized when spring finally arrives.
Take fewer naps
While naps can make you feel relaxed, they might make it harder to get quality sleep at night. You won’t feel as tired at night if you take naps throughout the day. Take fewer naps, or stop taking them altogether, and you’ll have an easier time avoiding spring fatigue.
Eat the right food
Comfort snacking is common during winter, but a proper diet will help eliminate winter fatigue. If you find yourself eating more comfort food during the winter months, try to shift to healthier food instead. Here are some examples of food that can help you beat winter fatigue:
Salmon
This fish is an excellent source of lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. While pork chops and steaks can also provide these, salmon’s fat content isn’t as high.
Lentils
Try incorporating greens into your diet, even during the winter months. While many fruits and vegetables don’t grow during this time of year, lentils do and are essential to some hearty winter dishes.
Egg yolk
Because there is less daylight during the winter months, you need to incorporate more sources of Vitamin D into your diet. Egg yolk is one of the best sources of Vitamin D, but you can also find it in certain mushrooms and fish.
If you’re unable to prepare for spring properly, there are a few ways to make your body adjust to the new season more quickly. Here are some tips to remember:
Your immune system decides how effectively your body adapts to both internal and external changes. Having a strong immune system will give you more energy at the beginning of the season. With a stronger immune system, your body will react more quickly to sudden changes, such as the shift from winter to spring.
There are more hours of sunlight in spring, and spending more time in the sun will help your body adjust to spring more quickly than usual. By taking a walk, visiting a friend, or sunbathing, you’ll be spring fatigue-free in no time.
To beat spring fatigue, you need to have quality sleep every night. Besides following a proper sleep schedule and taking fewer naps, here are a few more ways to improve your sleep quality:
Bright lights make you feel more awake, so you feel more lively during daylight hours. Blue light, the light from computer screens, also has this effect. You might feel less tired after viewing your phone, even if you’re ready for a good night’s rest. Don’t use your phone, tablet, or computer an hour before bedtime.
Scented candles help set a more relaxed mood. Lighting them before going to bed can help you feel more at peace and ready for a good night’s rest. Be sure to put the candles out before actually sleeping.
Certain scents can even help fight insomnia. Find out what they are by reading our article.
While there are many kinds of sleep supplements and pills, a key ingredient to look out for is Zizyphus.This is an herbal extract that has been used for thousands of years in Eastern countries to counteract insomnia. Our Quiet Please capsules contain this extract and much more–and you can learn more about them through our article.
If you want to learn more about natural remedies for adult acne, menstrual cramps, and boosting immune function, check out our other articles.
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You likely already know that cramps are caused by contractions of the uterus, which help release its lining. This causes major discomfort in that area of the body, especially a day after your period. While you can track your menstrual cycle and plan around it, it's impossible to perfectly predict when they happen.
Here’s the truth about menstrual cramps and how to get the relief you deserve:
One of the biggest amplifiers of menstrual cramp pain is stress. When we’re stressed, all the pain we feel becomes a lot worse. This is because the human body’s stress system is closely related to the nervous system. That means that in times of stress, your body will perceive pain to be much worse than usual.
Another factor that can affect how painful your menstrual cramps can be is your uterus’ overall health. Any health complications that affect your uterus, like an infection, will also adversely affect your menstrual cramps.
Here are a few proven ways to give yourself some well-deserved cramp relief:
A hot bath is one of the best ways to help lessen cramping. Since a woman’s menstrual cycle can also lead to bloating, soaking yourself in water can help with this effect as well. Not only that, but a hot bath will help relieve some stress.
A heating pad or hot water bottle helps tremendously during your period. At times, it can even provide almost immediate cramp relief. The heat that it provides will help give you better blood circulation.
By increasing the number of minerals in your diet, you’ll be decreasing the pain and mood swings that come with your period. Foods rich in magnesium, which can be found in avocados and dark chocolate, can help reduce pain and cramping while also preventing bloating.
Meanwhile, you should also avoid food that increases menstrual pain, such as sugar or caffeine. These foods will make your body retain more water, disrupting your blood flow, and making your pain much worse.
Among other things, your period can cause you to feel a lot more fatigued than normal, so give your body the rest it needs. A rested body can help you prevent fatigue, cramping, and mood swings. Sleeping early and getting a good night’s rest will also make you feel less stressed.
While you may not be expecting this, minor stretching and some light yoga will help with menstrual cramps. They will also help you feel much less bloated and heavy during that time of the month.
Another good way to deal with menstrual cramps is to find something to distract you from the pain. A good book, movie, or TV show will help keep you entertained while the pain runs its course and eventually stops.
For centuries, acupressure has been used in China as an alternative form of treatment for all kinds of ailments. As such, acupressure can provide fantastic results if you’re trying to reduce the pain from menstrual cramps.
If you’re interested in finding out some other ways people in ancient China used to treat menstrual cramps, check out this article.
Among other health issues, smoking has been linked to more painful menstrual cramps among other health issues. Thus, it’s better for your health to avoid smoking during that time of the month–or completely, for that matter.
Perhaps the most universal step to treating menstrual cramps is rest. When your menstrual cramps cause too much pain, getting rest will help reset your body to its natural form. While there are many forms of rest, it's best to avoid strenuous activity or stressful situations during that time of the month.
Sometimes, the best option to deal with menstrual cramps is the natural one. For this reason, you should try using Balance Blends’ own Cramp Whisperer! It’s a supplement that uses all-natural herbal extracts to help give you the sweet relief you’ve been looking for.
If you’re interested in finding other natural ways to minimize menstrual cramp pain, check out this article on remedies for menstrual cramps.
Those are just some of the things you can do to help reduce pain from your period. Following these pointers will help make that time of the month a little more bearable.
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Dealing with acne breakouts can be stressful, which can even cause skin issues to worsen. Let’s dig into adult acne and its causes.
Before we talk about remedying acne breakouts, let’s define acne and how it affects your skin. Acne is a skin condition caused by your hair follicles getting plugged with oil and dead skin cells. This manifests as whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.
What you might not have known is that your skin isn’t sterile. It’s a microbiome–a home to billions of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. This microbiome can be disrupted by various environmental factors, including changes to your skin pH levels and overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When these disruptions happen, you might experience skin dryness, signs of aging, and of course, acne breakouts.
This skin microbiome is also connected to another microbiome within your body, your gut. Just like your skin, your gut microbiome is home to trillions of different kinds of microorganisms. These microbes help your body control digestion, strengthen your immune system, and even modulate your brain health. Because they are connected, any disruption to your gut microbiome directly affects your skin. Intestinal problems, such as indigestion, are often linked to acne breakouts and skin inflammation.
Your skin is also directly tied to your lungs. This is because your lungs also have the task of regulating your body’s pH balance, in addition to your breathing. Thus any imbalances within your lungs, such as exposure to tobacco smoke, can affect your skin health.
Acne breakouts are more common in teenagers and young adults. However, that does not mean that adults are don’t break out easily either. There are a lot of variables that can affect how often someone experiences acne breakouts.
Genetics influence everything in your body, from your hair and eye color to your hormone production. Due to this, you might produce more androgen, the hormone commonly associated with adolescent acne, than others. If one or both of your parents are prone to acne, then your acne breakouts may be hereditary.
As previously mentioned, stress can be one of the causes of acne breakouts. Everybody associates stress with different things, like a person or a job. If you believe that stress is what’s causing you to experience acne breakouts, it’s essential to identify your stressor.
Are you sure that you’re getting enough sleep? Not only will a healthy sleep schedule reduce your stress levels, but it can also help your skin glow.
Need some help getting sleep? Check out our article for some ideas on how to make your nights all the more restful.
As mentioned previously, smoking can also negatively affect your skin. Smokers are more susceptible to acne breakouts. If you are a smoker, you should consider dropping the habit if you want healthier skin.
While exposure to sunlight helps your skin by giving you more Vitamin D, too much sunlight can be harmful to your skin. This is because the sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage your skin if you’re exposed to them for too long. 10-30 minutes of sunlight every day is all you need for your body to get the most benefits without getting damaged.
If your lifestyle requires you to get more than this amount of sunlight every day, you should invest in sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. This will ensure that you won’t be overexposed to the sun’s UV rays.
Being in the sun’s heat for too long can also cause you to sweat. Whether from prolonged heat exposure or an intense power yoga session, sweat can cause your pores to clog up. If you want to lower your chances of having an acne breakout, you may want to reduce your sunlight exposure or workout intensity.
Additionally, your diet can also heavily influence the frequency of your adult acne breakouts. Many food items can cause you to experience them. The main culprits are greasy, oily fast foods that can cause you to have an excess of oil in your body.
As mentioned, your gut microbiome’s health is connected to your skin; thus, you should take care of your internal body. Having a balanced diet and consuming foods rich in antioxidants like oranges, strawberries, and nuts can help you maintain healthy skin.
Another is sugar, which gets absorbed into your bloodstream and raises your sugar levels. Candy, soda, and chocolate are examples of sweets you may want to avoid to lower your sugar intake.
A special mention goes to dairy products, such as milk and cheese. If you are lactose-intolerant, then you should avoid these foods. Not only will these cause indigestion, but they can also lead to acne breakouts as the two are linked.
If you need food suggestions to help prevent or treat acne, check out our previous article on adult acne diet tips.
If you don’t make it a point to take care of your skin, you’ll be more susceptible to acne breakouts. You also have to make sure that you’re using the appropriate products for your skin. Some products are meant specifically for people with oily, more acne-prone skin. Using inappropriate products may be a cause for acne breakouts.
You must also be sure not to exfoliate your skin too often. You should only exfoliate your skin once or two times per week. Doing this too often can cause a variety of skin issues, such as irritation, redness, and skin inflammation, as well as disrupt your skin microbiome. These disruptions can make you more susceptible to adult acne breakouts.
As with any health issue, you should find its root cause and address it before it becomes a significant problem. However, since there are so many variables, it can be challenging to identify the exact causes.
If you want clear, glowing, and acne-free skin, then you need to pay attention to your diet, stress levels, and other factors that cause acne. Using the proper hygiene products, having a balanced diet, and reducing stress levels can help prevent future breakouts.
Try to keep a food journal to help you monitor what you’re eating. Not only will this help you count calories and macronutrients, but doing this will also help you track foods that may be triggering your acne. This will make finding patterns between your acne breakouts and your food easier.
Once acne breakouts occur, there are ways to deal with them. Using skin exfoliating products, but not too often, can help remove the damaged skin cells and treat acne. But be careful not to use exfoliating products too often because this can also damage the skin.
However, you must be wary of using Accutane, otherwise known as isotretinoin. While it can help treat acne in some cases, it also has serious side effects in women.
As an alternative, you can opt for our all-natural acne remedy, Acne Be Gone. This remedy uses cleansing herbs traditionally used in TCM to help treat imbalances within the body.
Check out this article if you want to learn more.
If you want to try another natural remedy, you should check out our guide to making your own DIY acne mask.
If possible, it’s always a good choice to consult with a dermatologist if you think you need help identifying your triggers. As experts on the skin, they can help you identify what behavior patterns contribute to your skin acne. Additionally, they can also prescribe treatment and medicine.
The best way to treat adult acne is to prevent it. Do as much research on the topic as possible–which you’ve already done as you’ve been reading this article.
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Washing your face and showering daily are supposed to help your skin feel clean. Unfortunately, your water might be causing your acne breakouts instead. If your pipes have mineral buildup, you might be washing your face with hard water, which can adversely affect your skin. Here is a guide to help you understand what hard water is, how it causes acne, where it comes from, and how to address it.
Hard water has a high concentration of minerals like magnesium and calcium. The name hard water does not describe the texture or feel, but rather its chemical buildup with the presence of these minerals.
To the untrained eye, hard water is almost indistinguishable. It’s potable and doesn’t have any discoloration or smell. You could be using hard water for everything from your daily skincare routine to your morning brew, and you may not even know it. But when you have hard water, you may have unwanted effects on your hair, clothing, and skin. For this article, we will focus on the impact of hard water on your skin.
Hard water causes acne in two ways.
The minerals in hard water can react with the chemicals in your soap and shampoo products, which results in your skin not being cleaned properly. Hard water can also leave behind some unwanted minerals on your skin. While you might think that these minerals are good for your body, they absorb much of the natural moisture and oils from your skin.
Hard water also doesn’t wash off soap, shampoo, and skincare products as effectively. This means that the leftover chemicals from these products could remain on your skin for longer than intended, which causes your skin to dry out. This can disturb your body’s natural hydration levels and pH balance which could then cause acne breakouts.
If you already have dry or sensitive skin, hard water only worsens it.
The leading cause of hard water is unfiltered or improperly filtered pipes. Setting up a filtration system in your home can help remove these unwanted chemicals from your water supply, eliminating hard water. Additionally, this can also prevent other chemicals and bacteria from coming into your water.
Before setting up a proper filtration system, you first need to know if you have hard water. Here are three ways you can tell if hard water is running through your pipes:
When you have hard water, spots tend to show up on dried silverware after washing. These spots are mineral deposits left over after water dries up. If these spots show up, it’s usually an indicator that you have hard water.
When you combine soap and water, and it doesn’t lather, then that means you have hard water. This is because the minerals in hard water make it harder for it to absorb soap, which reduces its effectiveness at cleaning.
Pipes can develop internal mineral deposits, causing them to clog up. This then restricts the flow of water, causing weaker pressure.
The best thing you can do to prevent hard water from damaging your skin is to address the root cause of the issue–the water itself. Having your pipes cleaned or installing a water filtration system is the best way to address the effects of hard water on your skin.
Note that not all hard water is composed of the same concentration of minerals. You can test water hardness yourself using a test kit or consult your plumber.
There are a few ways to remove hard water and its effects. The first method is boiling hard water before using it, removing some of its hardness. However, this is a time-consuming process and will only work for certain types of hardness.
Some showerhead models automatically filter out the minerals found in hard water. If your showerhead doesn’t already do this, consider installing a filter in your shower and your faucet, too. These filters are compatible with most models and are typically easy to install.
To remove the mineral deposits from your pipes entirely, you can consider investing in a high-quality water softener. These can prevent mineral buildup in your house’s plumbing. However, water softeners can be much more expensive than the others listed and require regular maintenance.
Acne can be caused by internal factors, such as an unhealthy sleep schedule or diet. Yet, external factors like hard water can cause breakouts and other unwanted effects on your skin. If you are experiencing acne, eczema, or dry skin, identify ways to heal your skin on the inside and external conditions you may be facing.
Our natural acne remedy, Acne Be Gone, can be a part of your healthy skin regimen. This natural herbal supplement contains extracts from herbs like Rehmannia and Peony, which help clear up skin and reduce bacteria and inflammation in the skin.
Feelings of nervousness usually stem from a disturbed shen. In China, shen refers to one’s spirit or mind. As such, it is responsible for our emotions, thoughts, consciousness, and decisions. Like qi, a balanced shen is essential to human life. When your shen is disturbed, then you may experience anxiety and clouded judgment. There are many ways to calm an imbalanced shen, but one of the most effective methods is to consume healing herbs.
Once you are feeling calm and like your best self, here are five aphrodisiac herbs that you can try to plan for a soulful Valentine’s Day with your special someone.
In Eastern countries, ginseng is traditionally used as an energizer. For Valentine’s Day, ginseng’s invigorating properties can help you bring out your more confident self.
While traditionally this root of this herb is eaten, you can boil the ginseng root as tea instead.
Saffron is a plant native to Eastern countries and one of the most expensive spices and aphrodisiac herbs. Aside from being a natural remedy that helps treat depression and stress, it also has its uses as an aphrodisiac. This herb can help you feel at peace, and more prepared to give your partner the love they deserve.
Saffron tea is a very popular way of consuming this herb, and there are many recipes available for you to try.
In addition to being an aphrodisiac, studies have shown that maca has the ability to improve energy levels and enhance your mood. This herb can help you become a more loving version of yourself by helping you remove any negative thoughts and feelings that you might have.
Maca can be consumed in many ways, such as tea, tablet, or in powdered form you can add to recipes.
Sometimes simply known as Ginkgo, this herb is used to treat a variety of health issues including anxiety and feelings of depression. This aphrodisiac herb also contains powerful antioxidants, so consuming it helps to cleanse both your mind and body in preparation for Valentine’s Day.
Ginkgo leaves are usually dried and then crushed to be served as tea.
Unlike most other aphrodisiac herbs on this list, fenugreek is native to western Asia rather than Eastern Asia. As a medicinal and aphrodisiac herb, fenugreek has many properties that help improve your mood when you consume it. This is because this herb is traditionally used to treat imbalances within the body.
The herb also provides a lot of nutritional value in a single tablespoon. It can provide up to 20% of your daily iron needs as well as a healthy balance of fiber, protein, and carbs. Much like the other aphrodisiac herbs on this list, fenugreek is usually consumed as a tea, and tastes and smells much like maple syrup.
In China, Chamomile is known for its ability to put one to sleep. Besides its use for treating insomnia, its relaxing effect can also be used to treat feelings of anxiety. Typically, it is consumed as a tea.
Lavender is a flowering plant in the mint family and is easily distinguished by its distinct appearance and floral scent. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), lavender is used to treat shen-related issues, such as anger and anxiety.
Lavender is often consumed as either tea or lavender extract.
Like Lavender, Valerian has been used in TCM to calm the shen. This herb can help ease feelings of anxiety while also treating insomnia. Scientists believe that Valerian has the ability to relax the brain similar to drugs such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium).
Valerian is usually consumed daily, and by mouth.
During periods of extreme stress, even the smallest inconveniences can cause a great deal of mental and emotional distress. Since Valentine’s Day can be very stressful, you might want to look at these three herbs as they can help relieve you of those feelings.
This herb has been used for thousands of years to treat feelings of stress and anxiety. It also has some other proven health benefits, such as improving energy and uplifting your mood by addressing internal imbalances.
Ashwagandha is best consumed as tea and is very popular in India and surrounding countries.
Stress can cause a lot of health issues, such as inflammation which can then manifest into headaches or joint pains. However, turmeric has been proven to successfully combat inflammations and help cleanse feelings of stress and depression.
Turmeric tea is brewed from grated turmeric root or powder. It is also considered one of the best ways to take this herb.
Otherwise simply known as Kava, this herb is used to treat anxiety and stress. Kava Kava contains substances called kavapyrones, which calm and relax your brain and improve your mood.
Kava Kava is a popular drink in the South Pacific.
To truly have an enjoyable Valentine’s Day, you need to get into the mood. This holiday is the day to celebrate love and those you love. Taking these herbs can help improve your mood.
Rhodiola is an herb that grows in mountainous regions of both Europe and Asia. It’s has been used in these cultures for centuries to treat anxiety, fatigue, and depression. This herb can help you feel energized and ready to make your upcoming Valentine’s Day one to remember.
Rhodiola extract can be found in tablet or capsule form, but can also be consumed as a tea.
Just like the candy that has been named after this herb, licorice root is incredibly sweet. This sweetness can help improve your mood and energize and excite your body. Just remember to not take too much of this herb, as its sweet taste may cause you to crave it more often.
Unlike the herbs on this list, licorice root is best used when chewed directly.
It’s fitting that this herb is named after a figure whose purpose was to cleanse people of their sins. This European herb has been used for centuries to treat hormonal imbalances and depression. It is mainly known for its ability to regulate and improve your mood.
St John’s Wort is most effective when taken as a capsule instead of used as a topical solution.
In addition to the herbs listed above, some foods have been proven to be effective aphrodisiacs.
Chocolate contains phenylethylamine–a stimulant that excites the senses. Chocolates have ‘feel good’ compounds that enhance bodily sensations. To get the best effect, we recommend taking at least 75% dark chocolate.
These crimson fruits are often associated with love and pleasure. Their properties as an antioxidant help increase blood flow within the body. They also contain several minerals known to support a healthy sex drive, such as magnesium.
These berries pair very well with chocolate, another known aphrodisiac. Dip them in chocolate and eat them together for a delicious effect.
Wine is an alcoholic drink that is made through fermenting grapes. Because of its high alcohol content, this drink can help to release one’s inhibitions and stimulate sexual desire. It is particularly effective as an aphrodisiac for women.
Here’s a recipe for a special aphrodisiac mixture that really sets the mood for Valentine’s Day. This Maca Rose Latte helps me feel at peace when I drink it, and may make you feel the same way.
Ingredients
Instructions
If you’re feeling nervous about your next Valentine’s Day, then you need to treat the shen imbalances within you. Consuming these foods and herbs will do just that and make your next night of passion one to remember.
]]>However, most herbal supplements people purchase don’t actually provide a tangible benefit. Many generic, white-label supplements are made and sold for profit and not to improve consumers' lives.
But Balance Blends is different. We create products that work and can help make your life better. That’s because our custom-blended formulas were created by holistic dermatologist and clinical herbalist, our founder Dr. Colette Widrin.
Dr. Colette Widrin is a clinical herbalist with over 20 years of experience in the health industry. As a clinical herbalist in private practice, she prescribes herbs and formulas to patients to address underlying imbalances within their bodies and the manifestation of external symptoms.
As for her academic background, she finished her Master’s degree in Eastern and Western Medical Theory in Santa Monica a year early. After receiving her Master’s, she went to Portland, Oregon to earn her doctorate. She also spent three years studying dermatology in both San Francisco and London.
While she has a strong grasp of medical theory, she also understands that clinical practice is just as important, and she has over 10 years of clinical experience. But in her private practice, she noticed that many of her patients could not get the regular treatment they needed due to their lifestyles. She realized that people needed a more convenient way to address their health issues, so she made Balance Blends.
Colette created Balance Blends to give people with fast-paced lifestyles a convenient alternative way to address their health issues. Her years of training and clinical experience gave her all the knowledge she needed to create effective herbal supplements for the people who need them.
As a clinical herbalist and holistic dermatologist, Dr. Colette listens and assesses her clients’ medical history and complaints, and prescribes them herbal solutions. She understands that a lot of health issues come from an imbalance within the body and which herbal solutions can help treat these imbalances. These solutions are not only meant to help ease symptoms but also address the underlying health concerns of her clients.
This is in line with Dr. Colette’s philosophy: that we must identify and treat minor health issues before they develop into major ones.
Anybody can blend herbs, but it takes an expert to create an herbal remedy that works. Balance Blends creates effective herbal supplements because Dr. Colette considers many factors when blending her herbs.
One of her primary considerations when creating herbal remedies is to ensure each herb dosage is within the safe and effective ranges. While most medicinal herbs are inherently safe for consumption, they may not produce the desired effect when improperly dosed.
Another important consideration is how the different herbs in a blend work. Balance Blends’ herbal supplements are made with herbs that naturally complement each other. For example, we use Huang Qi and Bai Zhu in our immunity-boosting Force Field supplement as they both have Qi boosting properties.
As important as knowing which herbs combine for greater impact, certain herbs don’t work well together. For example, cloves, or Ding Xiang, and Curcuma root, or Yu Jin, should not be taken together as they will counteract each other’s effects.
It’s also important to note that we don’t dose all of our herbs equally. To produce the best effect, we have to balance the formula of our herbal supplements properly. When blending, we use a “leader” herb, the main herb, and then supplementary “helper” herbs to fine-tune its effects.
We have to consider where we source our ingredients. Certain herbs require specific growing conditions to develop their optimal potency. That’s why we source our ingredients from Eastern countries, growing them for centuries. We have an article on why we must do this, which you can find here.
At Balance Blends, we take a lot of care to consider all of these things before making our herbal supplements. We do this because we pride ourselves in creating that work and truly improving the lives of our customers.
We incorporate many healing herbs into our formulas, but mixing them takes an expert’s mind and intuition. Certain herbs are best used in tandem with others while also needing specific dosages.
Single herbs have been used to combat ailments in Eastern countries for generations. An example is that older adults in China take ginseng daily for health and longevity. While single herbs can produce an effect when taken daily, they are only band-aid solutions to combat specific health problems.
On the other hand, custom-blended formulas, like the herbal supplements we produce, are meant to address the underlying factors that cause these problems. Custom-blended formulas are mixed with other herbs to maximize their healing effects. This makes them much better at addressing patterns and underlying health issues than single herb solutions.
Herbs have the potential to improve your life, combat health challenges, and generally feel better in a natural way. Dr. Colette takes healing herbs every day and you might consider trying them too.
Check out our line of custom-blend herbal supplements and see how they can improve your life today.
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To have a more robust immune system, you need to eat the right food, exercise your mind and body, and take the necessary supplements. Doing the opposite, however, can be very harmful to your well-being. Having an unbalanced diet and not taking the correct supplements may mean that your body isn’t getting the nutrients that it needs. Additionally, living an inactive lifestyle may make your body more susceptible to diseases and other risks.
People with weaker immune systems are more likely to develop severe symptoms when infected by most illnesses. Additionally, they also take much longer to recover. Even common illnesses like the flu or basic cold can be problematic to those with weak immune systems.
It is for these reasons that you have to strengthen your immune system. You can do this immediately by making a few simple lifestyle changes. Here are four natural, research-backed habits you can build to help you get the boost your immune system needs.
You need to have a balanced diet if you want to strengthen your immune system. By ensuring that your body gets the nutrients it needs, you improve your overall immune response against viruses, bacteria, and other free radicals.
Free radicals are components that can weaken, damage, and kill cell functions when found in large quantities. When left unchecked, they can cause numerous health problems, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer’s, cancer, and diabetes. Additionally, they can also accelerate aging processes causing the appearance of wrinkles.
To combat their harmful effect, regularly consuming fruits and vegetables that are packed with antioxidants will help. Many fruits and vegetables are also full of vitamins and minerals that help to strengthen your immune system.
In addition to giving a boost to your immune system, fresh produce is also rich in nutrients that your body needs to function properly. Green vegetables are rich in iron, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals that provide all sorts of benefits to your body.
We recommend incorporating the following fruits and vegetables into your diet to get the most significant boost to your immune system:
Having an established exercise routine can be a great way to boost your immune system. Additionally, exercising several times a week can improve your mood and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
However, not all exercise activities are the same. For example, cardiovascular exercises like running, biking, and swimming can improve your heart rate. On the other hand, weightlifting can improve your body strength while also reducing anxiety.
Mind-body therapies Yoga and Tai Chi are both low-impact exercises that help to boost the immune system. Both of these can relieve regular stress, which, when left unchecked, can weaken your body’s natural immune system response. Additionally, mind-body therapies can also reduce markers of inflammation and influence virus-specific immune responses.
If you’re specifically looking to boost your immune system, we strongly recommend Yoga and Tai Chi. These therapies have a low barrier of entry as they don’t require specialized equipment, unlike biking or weights. Because of how accessible they are, it’s easy for people to do them regularly. This is important because they have to be practiced often and consistently to get the most benefits.
However, while yoga and Tai Chi may have similar benefits, they are not the same.
Yoga is a 5000-year-old mind-body exercise that sees its roots in India. Originally, it was meant for religious purposes and was more than exercise and breathing. One would meditate to prepare one’s mental state to help search for inner peace and happiness.
However, in the West, it is primarily the act of holding particular poses that will help strengthen your core and reduce stress - all while moving at a slow pace from one pose into the next. Focus is placed on the breath, which can help with deeper, more impactful poses.
While Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years, it has become trendy in modern times. There are currently over 6,000 yoga studios in the U.S.
Along with its benefits for immunity, many people turn to yoga to help with:
Like Yoga, Tai Chi is thousands of years old and originates from an Eastern country, China. However, Tai Chi focuses on balancing one’s yin and yang energies through slow and controlled movement rather than breathing techniques and poses.
Tai Chi promotes movement in the body through slow, determined motions that can resemble a dance. Like yoga but perhaps with greater, more focused intent, Tai Chi incorporates breathing techniques and meditation.
Beyond assisting with the immune system, many people begin Tai Chi to help with:
This pointer may seem a little strange to you at first. However, research shows that there is a clear connection between your emotions and immune response. In other words, adopting a positive attitude towards daily life could help to improve your body’s response to germs. Additionally, looking at life with a positive outlook can help fight off illnesses and recover from them more quickly.
But positivity is not just about smiling all the time. It’s also about what you focus on and value. For example, positive people tend to focus more on the good things that happen during their day than the bad. Optimistic people also tend to practice gratitude and find humor in everyday things. Finally, they also tend to surround themselves with other positive people.
But what can help you embrace more positivity in your life?
However, approaching life with a more positive frame of mind isn’t a change that happens overnight. Changing your perspective on life may take a long time. But if you are serious about boosting your immune system, it may be worth it to take strides to adopt a more positive attitude.
Herbs like ledebouriella have been used for generations in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to boost the immune system naturally. These herbs can lift our energy in the TCM model, traditionally known as qi, and support the immune system response in the TCM model.
We offer a capsule called Force Field that contains ledebouriella and other herbs that can strengthen your immune system. The all-natural formula combines several complementary TCM herbs that can help to keep your immune system strong. This includes herbs like astragalus, cordyceps, reishi, gynostemma, and more. Check out our article on why it's essential to use the best ingredients for these medicinal herbs here.
A more robust immune system can not only keep us from becoming ill more often but it can also:
If you'd also like to add stress relief to your daily to-do list, you'll definitely want to explore the benefits of Just Breathe - also from Balance Blends.
Natural Immunity Boosters:
https://balanceblends.com/blogs/news/65129669-natural-immune-boosters-healthy-herbal-remedies-that-power-up-your-qi-energy
3 Immunity-Boosting Herbs:
https://balanceblends.com/blogs/news/3-herbs-that-boost-your-immune-system
Digging Deeper in the Force Field Capsules:
https://balanceblends.com/blogs/news/digging-deeper-into-the-force-field-capsules
But for a lot of people, it might be harder to get good rest on the 21st – or any day for that matter. In fact, about 30-40% of Americans suffer from insomnia in some way. If you suffer from stress or insomnia, then you understand that getting better sleep is more difficult than simply putting your head on a pillow.
Here’s why:
One of the main contributors (and reactions) to insomnia is extreme fatigue. In Traditional Eastern Medicine, mental fatigue is rooted in the yin-yang imbalance of the liver meridian system. This type of fatigue causes “wandering of the heart spirit,” which can keep people up at night. In other words, when someone has a lot on their mind, their body can enter a perpetual state of restlessness that detracts from better sleep. In fact, it can often keep a person from falling asleep altogether.
If this sounds familiar to you, then you’re likely already trying to find out how you can get better sleep. While there are pharmacological ways to combat insomnia, there are a handful of other methods you can use to sleep better, including:
Experiencing a plethora of wonderful scents that can supply a number of different sensations, including calming and relaxing ones. When you’re looking for a good night's sleep on the longest night of the year, there are some scents that help produce a calming effect. These scents will put you in a relaxed state and help prepare your mind for good sleep. Here are some examples:
A special mention goes to scents such as pine, frankincense, myrrh, and cedarwood as these scents are commonly associated with winter.
This is the practice of lighting specific candles to emit different emotions. Candles can differ in both color and scent, and both can affect your sleep. When choosing candles, you should consider earth tones such as dark blue, brown, and dark green as these can help you get better sleep. Shades of light blue, a peaceful color, can also help your sleep as well. This is because viewing certain colors as you’re about to sleep can help your mind relax and prepare for a good night’s rest.
For the scent of the candles, we recommend you choose from the list above but also be open to options like neroli, mandarin, and vanilla. Just like the scents listed above, these scents can put the mind in a relaxing state, making it much easier to sleep. To get better sleep during the Winter Solstice, many go with the colors that symbolize Yule, such as red, green, gold, silver, and white.
Life can be hectic, especially in these times, that’s why many people turn to meditation. The practice of meditation finds its roots in Eastern cultures, specifically China and India. The practice is as simple as getting into a relaxed position, closing your eyes, and allowing your mind to wander. It is a calming sensory experience as while meditating, you tend to focus more on what you feel, hear, and smell.
A lot of people enjoy meditation and it has become quite popular in recent years. As a result, there are a myriad of specialty meditation podcasts, stations, and live streams for people who want to try the practice. These guided meditations usually feature a narrator that will lead the listener through a series of creative visualizations.
If you're having trouble sleeping, then meditating before bedtime can be a good idea. Additionally, if your schedule is packed, just a few minutes’ worth of quiet time to completely clear your mind can do wonders. For those who have a difficult time sleeping, meditation could just be the thing to help quiet your mind and help you sleep. If nothing else, it can help you collect and categorize your thoughts, so that you're ready for the next morning.
However, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution to sleep problems. If you’re experiencing insomnia, then you might want to try consuming Zizyphus. This is an herbal extract that helps counteract restless nights from fatigue and other lifestyle-induced problems.
Zizyphus has been used for thousands of years in Eastern countries. Primarily, it is used to help counteract occasional insomnia by nourishing the blood of the heart and liver meridian systems, while also calming the spirit. This helps promote welcoming conditions for serene sleep. The herbal extract can also produce a relaxing effect which would make it easier for you to sleep better if consumed during the Winter Solstice.
At Balance Blends, this calming herbal extract is one of many found in Quiet Please, the Extrapolent™ that helps you get more shut-eye on a regular basis. Learn more about Quiet Please here. And for more information about the high-quality ingredients found in our products, read here.
With these remedies, you’ll be able to get a wonderful sleep during the Winter Solstice. If you want more ideas on how to sleep better and get quality rest, check out our other blog posts on the topic:
The Ancient Chinese Secret to Better Sleep
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The best ingredients are essential to creating herbal supplements that help best heal the root causes of your symptoms. But how exactly do we know that the medicinal herbs we source are of the highest quality?
We only source our herbal ingredients from reputable and trusted companies. We must work only with companies that follow ethical practices. The companies we source our ingredients from must comply with the law and ethical norms. They must abide by the Food and Drug Administration’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and the Natural Product Association (NPA).
By following these standards, we can ensure that our products are made with high-quality and ethically sourced herbal ingredients by following these standards.
How do we know our ingredients are sourced from the best locations? Simply put, we understand that not all herbs can be grown under the same conditions. Dr. Colette knows which climates are best suited to grow the medicinal herbs we use in our products.
One example of this is astragalus, or Huang Qi, which needs a dry climate to grow optimally. While astragalus can technically grow in damper regions, it may not develop the necessary potency for medicinal purposes if not grown in an optimal climate. However, we only source our herbs from farmers with a proven track record for growing high potency astragalus. For this reason, we source our astragalus from farmers in Eastern countries rather than those produced in the US.
We place a lot of emphasis on where our herbs come from because of the effects on their potency. This is because many healing herbs can only develop such strong properties in a specific terroir--the combination of factors that affect plant growth. This includes, but is not limited to, climate, temperature, soil type, soil dampness, and more.
For example, ginseng roots from China have been cultivated to be extremely potent when used for certain medicinal purposes. These roots are especially good for older adults who eat a bit of the root daily. However, American Ginseng has its own properties and health benefits.
Though similar, the two are not used to treat the same ailments. American ginseng is often used as a relaxing agent, while Chinese ginseng has an energizing effect. That is because they were cultivated in different soil, topography, and climate, all of which affect growth.
Here are some examples of healing herbs that we use in our products:
The Poria mushroom is a fungus that has been used in TCM to calm one’s senses. This healing property makes it perfect for our Quiet Please sleep aid capsule.
As poria naturally feast on pine trees, it should be cultivated where these are abundant. Typically, pine grows in sunny locations with dry soil. Chinese farmers have produced poria for thousands of years and thus know the fungus’s best growing techniques and conditions. For this reason, we source our poria directly from China and other Eastern countries.
Ledebouriella root, otherwise known as Fang Feng, is traditionally used to remedy bowel problems and hallucinations. In TCM, it is also used for its immunity-strengthening properties due to its ability to remove wind pathogens. This immune-boosting property is why we use it in our Force Field blend.
For maximum potency, Ledebouriella root requires a lot of sunlight and grows well in garden soil. It is best grown during the early days of spring or the fall months.
We source our Ledebouriella directly from Eastern countries since locally grown variants have a different level of potency.
Atractylodes, or Bai Zhu, are a staple in TCM. They are typically used to treat gastrointestinal problems, among other medicinal purposes. Like Ledebouriella root, it can be found in our immunity-boosting Force Field supplement.
However, Bai Zhu requires a specific environment to achieve its optimal potency. The ingredient grows best during December when the temperature ranges from -14 to 32 degrees °F. It also needs to be planted in soil with low clay content and high calcium content.
Chi Shao Yao, or red peony root, is often used in TCM to treat blood clots and improve blood circulation. This property makes it a vital ingredient in mixtures that treat menstrual pain or acne. We use this and various other healing herbs in our Acne Be Gone remedy.
Red peony plants like to have six to eight hours of sunlight every day. However, they must also be sheltered from strong winds as their blooms can easily topple them over. They also love deep and fertile soil that does not retain much water.
Reishi mushrooms, also known as Lingzhi, are used in TCM for their benefits to strengthen the human immune system. They are also known for their ability to combat chronic diseases such as cancer. Its immunity-boosting properties make it the perfect ingredient for our Force Field supplements.
Reishi is a relatively easy mushroom to cultivate. It can usually be found growing in the wild on dying hardwood trees and stumps. It typically grows best during May to November in temperatures of 69.8 to 80.6 degrees °F.
But that begs the question: what happens if we don’t go to such lengths to get the highest-quality ingredients? Simply speaking, there are three main issues we want to avoid.
Some farms use harmful pesticides to protect their crops from insects and rats. These chemicals can poison those who ingest these herbs.
Additionally, these pesticides can damage the local ecosystem if they somehow make their way into a water source.
The biggest problem with using low-quality ingredients comes when they’re added to a mixture. The growing environment of plants can affect their potency; low-quality ingredients can vary in their strength.
That is why you must use only the highest quality medicinal herbs and ingredients in your herbal supplements, as we do. Look at our product pages and see what herbal ingredients we use in our Balance Blends products. All of our products are authentic and have been triple-tested for safety. Check them out today!
It is essential that you get a qualified opinion from a licensed physician before taking any supplements. Some medicinal plants need to be consumed in the correct dosage. All of our supplements should be taken with the consent of a licensed and qualified medical practitioner.
3 Herbs that Boost your Immune System:
https://balanceblends.com/blogs/news/3-herbs-that-boost-your-immune-system
The Best Eastern Medicine Herbs and Remedies for Non-Cystic Acne:
4 Advantages of Complete Herb Blends:
https://balanceblends.com/blogs/news/4-advantages-of-complete-herb-blends
We are so excited to share the second blog post written for Erewhon Market in Los Angeles -- http://www.erewhonmarket.com/growth-first-four-cycles-of-jing/
We are so grateful to Dr. Colette Widrin for sharing her expertise in the field of Chinese Medicine. This time, she is focusing on the first four cycles of jing. Jing is essentially your essence…it’s what makes you, you. In this article, Dr. Colette explains the first cycles of jing: growth.
All living beings experience two main phases in life: one of growth, and another one of decline. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, these phases are experienced as cycles of jing, composed of either seven cycles of seven years each (for women) or eight cycles of eight years each (for men).
Most terms in Traditional Chinese Medicine cannot be easily translated into English. When a “word” is directly translated from Chinese to English, it often loses significant depth and meaning. For this reason, even when putting TCM philosophy into practice in an English-speaking context, the Chinese words remain.
Such is the case for two essential topics in TCM: qi and jing. Qi is interpreted as the “vital energy,” or “life force” that flows through us and connects and binds us to each other and the rest of the universe. When we are in a healthy state, our qi is balanced.
The jing is the essence and source of qi. The jing cycles help to guide us in knowing how to care for ourselves in each stage of life to extend our vitality. We must conserve our jing to ensure vitality throughout life. The cycles of jjng begin at birth, and continue to the end of life.
The first four cycles of jjng are predominantly cycles of growth. For women, the first cycle of jjng is complete at age 7. The second cycle of growth is completed at age 14, when menstruation sets in. These first two stages of jing are still characterized by immaturity. The third and fourth cycles of jing, from 21 to 35, are the peak of vitality for most women.
For men, the jing cycles are based on 8-year rather than 7-year cycles. The first cycle of jing in men completes at age 8, when the permanent teeth come in and the kidney meridian system energy is strong. The second cycle, starting at age 16, is similar to that of women in that they show signs of fertility (sperm production, in this case), but are still immature. In the fourth cycle of jing for men (age 32), the final stage of growth, men have strong muscles and are at the peak of their physical condition.
After these four cycles, we enter stages of decline.
It is important to know that the state of our vitality in the latter cycles of jing depends on how well we took care of ourselves during the stages of growth. We must conserve our jing in each stage, and not take our youthfulness for granted.
For men and women, the egg and sperm are a physical manifestation of our jjng. Women must take care of themselves after their menstrual cycles and postpartum to recover balance in qi after each event.
Secondly, integrate diet, exercise, and medicinal herbs, when needed, into your lifestyle. They are key elements that aid in preserving jjng.
Thirdly, we must control both acute and chronic stress levels, as these cause our jing to leak out quickly. This can be done by avoiding long-term overworking, developing a meditation practice and allocating a portion of your week to activities that nourish your soul.
Going through the cycles of jing is a normal part of life. All humans, regardless of their levels of vitality will experience cycles of growth, and then of decline. However, our vitality and balance in all cycles of jing will depend on how well we are able to care for ourselves through diet and herbs, exercise, controlling stress levels, and making decisions that promote optimal health.
If you're lookin for additional ways to control stress, be sure to look into the Just Breathe capsules, and you may finally be able to take a restful breath… with this Chinese secret to stress relief. As we've mentioned, controlling stressful situations is an imperative part of keeping both the mind and body happy and healthy at all times.
Plus, if you're worried about becoming ill as your immune system weakens in response to stress, click to learn more about Force Field from Balance Blends.
Aromatherapy is the use of extracts and oils to help relieve stress and benefit one’s health. In other words, it’s the perfect air freshener solution for any health-conscious consumer. So, why all the hype? Aromatherapy not only smells wonderful, but it can also help boost your mood and lighten up your home environment. It helps many unify their psychological, spiritual and personal processes and ultimately helps promote a healthy healing process. Whether you're boosting your energy levels or using aromatherapy to help ease your mental health, check below for some of my favorite ways to make the most of your next aromatherapy experience.
One of the most common uses of aromatherapy is for stress relief. The mix of different aromatic compounds you get from essential oils helps promote relaxation and ease your mind. So during your next Sunday night bath or maybe just after any long day, try using a mix of lavender, bergamot, and peppermint essential oils to help ease your mind and unwind!
One of the lesser-known functions of aromatherapy is how it can help boost brain function and ultimately change your brain’s memory capacity. Studies have found that, in younger patients, consistent use of aromatherapy can help improve memory for a certain amount of time after use. Try adding a little sage oil into your next late-night study session to test out its memory-enhancing effect.
If you’re the type who’s tried all the all-natural sleep remedies the holistic health world has to offer, maybe try switching to a different method that can help you develop a better-balanced sleep schedule. That’s right, aromatherapy can help you reset your circadian rhythm so that your body begins to relax naturally around your desired bedtime. It’s as easy as adding lavender, chamomile, or rose essential oils to your aroma rotation!
There are fewer things more important than staying strong and healthy, which is nearly impossible when your immune system is low. But did you know that aromatherapy can play a role in boosting your immunity? Well, it most certainly can! Some oils to pop in your diffuser include eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender, lemon and oregano.
We've all had those days where it's nearly impossible to get up and moving, much less think about working and having a productive day. Again, aromatherapy can help in to ensure that we can perform at our best, with a clear mind. Some oils that are great for providing a burst of energy include peppermint, orange, spearmint, rosemary and lemongrass.
If the idea of trying aromatherapy excites you, why not try it out! The best part is that the ingredients you need won’t be hard to find. Start by finding the right aroma diffuser for you, and from there you can choose from dozens of scent options to find the one that works best for your lifestyle! Destressing and boosting your quality of life just became as easy as 1,2,3!
Some people like to blend two oils together to create a scent that works just right for their individual needs. While you can definitely experiment with the scents that you prefer, but some that really blend well together include:
While you may have gleaned some ideas on how to best utilize oils, there are several methods that people use on a regular basis.
Candle Burners - This is a very simple, budget-friendly way to burn essential oils. It is basically a small, ceramic piece that holds a candle under a bowl that rests on top. You light the candle and drop a bit of oil in water that is poured into the bowl.
Electric Burners - These work in much the same way as candle burners, except that, instead of using a candle to burn the oil, the burner has an electrical plug.
Diffusers - In preparation, the oil is dropped into the cannister that holds water. These plug into an electric outlet, and it pushes the oil out in a stream of vapor.
Oil Candles - There are also candles that are made from essential oils, which will also fill the air with the scent of the chosen oil.
And if you need a little something extra to help get a good night's sleep, then try Balance Blends’ Quiet Please capsules, which contain eight TCM herbs and more.
The Quiet Please capsules will not disappoint. They help to naturally reestablish healthy sleep rhythms without the unpleasant side effects that pharmaceuticals may cause.
Additionally, if you need help reducing stress, you may also want to try Just Breathe - also from Balance Blends.
In traditional Chinese theory, good health requires Qi to move unimpeded through what are called meridian systems - or pathways - within the body. The disruption, blockage or weakening of Qi is believed to affect one’s immune system. If Qi is weak, which can result from stress, it can stagnate. This can produce toxic heat (inflammation), which is considered unhealthy.
At Balance Blends, we have long studied Chinese Medicine, as well as modern alternative solutions to common health concerns that involve the immune system and the energy that we can feel and physically use. All that knowledge has been carefully considered in the creation of our Force Field formula, which combines the best of both Eastern and Western remedies to tonify, nourish and replenish deficient Qi, so that it flows freely throughout the body.
Force Field contains the legendary Yu Ping Feng Tan (Jade Screen) to provide a wall (or “screen”) of defense for the immune system. Jade was once used to ward off evil spirits in China, but this formula doesn’t actually contain Jade in these capsules. "Jade Screen" is actually a combination of Huang Qi (Astragalus), a longevity herb that has anti-bacterial properties and is popular for fighting fatigue, and Fang Feng (Ledebouriella or Siler Root), which is used to guard against pathogenic “wind” — the traditional carrier of illness. We also added adaptogenic herbs such as Eleuthero, Cordyceps and longevity herb Reishi (Ganoderma), and the Western household favorite Vitamin C, to further support the immune system.
While discovering powerful herbs that can boost your immune system, there are also other solutions to bring you more energy and a healthy life.
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Other elements, like exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and eating right are all conducive to having a strong immune system that keeps “bugs" out of your system, leaving you feeling great and ready to be healthy and productive.
However, even if you are taking good care of yourself, sometimes your body needs a little help to get through certain situations and circumstances. While you may be familiar with Vitamin C for boosting the immune system, it isn’t the only supplement that can assist your body in taking on those microscopic bad guys. There are several herbs that have been used for centuries to boost the immune system, many of which are in our Force Field Immune System Strengthening Capsules.
In this article, we will tell you about some of the most potent herbs you can incorporate into your routine to boost your immune system and have a better quality of life.
Eleuthero, short for Eleutherococcus and known as Siberian ginseng by some, is an herb native to Japan, parts of China and Russia, South Korea, and North Korea, used in these parts for up to 2000 years. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments, and it is now known that Eleuthero is effective because it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens support health and helps to prevent disease by helping to neutralize environmental stressors without any notable side effects. It is also a stimulant, boosting nervous system function.
Technically speaking, cordyceps is not an herb, rather, it is a fungus found in very high altitudes (4500m!). It used in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine that has immune-system boosting effects by way of antioxidant activities. It also directly activates the intestinal immune system. Evidence shows that it even helps the immune system to help fight cancer. Now that is a powerful fungus.
Astralagus has been used in TCM for thousands of years, often with other herbs, to strengthen the body against other diseases. Like eleuthero, it is an adaptogen, helping to protect the body against physical, mental, and emotional stress.
Because the effectiveness of astragalus has been proven, some studies have tried to determine what component (or components) in the herb is responsible for its immune system-boosting properties. It has been found that a specific carbohydrate (polysaccharide) that activates important immune system cells
Skeptics question the efficacy of herbs in improving your health, but both in TCM and in western medicine research environments, these herbs have been demonstrated to be effective. All three of these herbs (and more!) are found in Force Field Immune System Strengthening Capsules.
Additionally, if you're feeling ill and are experiencing a loss of energy, Quiet Please (also from Balance Blends and in addition to Force Field) can help you get that full night's sleep that you need for your body to heal and restore your energy levels.
In addition to looking into herbs that can boost your immunity, there are also several lifestyle changes that can be of great help.
Many women will pop pain medications that may numb the feeling, but in reality, they aren’t helping the blood circulation or alleviating spasms. It's like putting a bandaid on a cut that actually requires stitches.
There are a number of herbs that have been used in TCM for centuries to help prevent and alleviate menstrual cramps. Here, we review four of them. Incorporate as many or as few as you'd like, so that you can experience relief.
Angelica root, known as dong quaior dang gui, belongs to a species of plants that has been used in TCM as well as in Ayurveda, among other traditional medicine systems. It helps to promote blood flowto the reproductive organs, thus reducing cramps. It is an herb known to regulate the gastrointestinal tractand reduce bloating related to accumulated gas, as well as calm spasms.
Lovage root, also known as Sichuan lovage root and Chuan Xiong, is an herb known to move the blood and reduce lower-body pain. It is known to be a diuretic as well as a spasmolytic, meaning it will help to reduce spasms. Because of these properties, it is also used to help alleviate flatulence and other gastric problems.
White peony is known as a liver and blood tonic, as it has analgesic, blood nourishing, and menstrual regulating properties. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce bloating.
Foxglove root, or Chinese foxglove is an herb that women have added to soup as far back as the Song Dynasty. The soup contains four herbs, among them Chinese foxglove, which helps to alleviate pain and serves as a blood tonic to nourish the blood after menstruation and giving birth.
The good news is that there are quite a number of different remedies for menstrual cramps that are completely natural. Some may even be seen as more of a lifestyle change than anything else. Let's take a moment to explore a few!
These four herbs and five more, including Motherwort, Safflower, and Nut Grass, are found in Balance Blends Cramp Whisperer, a natural form to alleviate and prevent cramps through herbs used for hundreds of years.
Additionally, if your cramps are keeping you awake at night, or if you have regular problems with insomnia, look into Quiet Please from Balance Blends.
Skipping meals is a common mistake made by adults with acne-prone skin, especially women. In fact, it's become somewhat of an epidemic in Western culture, particularly with busy individuals. Even if you generally have normal glucose levels, skipping meals can cause low blood sugars and make you suddenly very hungry. When you're really hungry, you'll eat almost anything — and often over-eat, causing blood sugars to spike.
Constantly repeating this yoyo pattern, as well as eating highly processed foods, simple sugar and saturated fats, can contribute to unstable blood sugar levels, or a condition called dysglycemia.
Insulin is a natural hormone your body uses to regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels and move nutrients through your bloodstream. Your diet directly affects your level of insulin.
High blood sugar levels trigger high insulin production, as well as hormones that affect sebum (oil) production in the skin. Too much sebum is one of the main reasons why pores get blocked and accumulate bacteria, which can lead to swelling and redness — that’s right, acne.
When blood sugar levels are unstable, your skin can behave erratically. It is nearly impossible to treat acne related to blood sugar problems without addressing your eating habits. Eating regular meals, and primarily plant-based foods, can help you get on the right path toward a more balanced system, and clear skin.
PCOS is a condition that results in multiple cysts on ovaries, hormonal imbalance and reproductive health problems. While not fully understood, many experts believe PCOS is linked to insulin resistance, which occurs when insulin becomes less effective at lowering blood sugars. The resulting increase in blood sugars may extend beyond “normal” levels and disrupt skin, in addition to causing other health issues. Many women who have PCOS also experience acne.
PCOS-related acne tends to flare up along areas governed by hormones, such as the chin, jawline, cheek and neck. Taking steps to manage your blood sugar levels, such as eating a regular, balanced and supplemented diet, may help you clear up your skin.
Eating meals too far apart can also cause large fluctuations in your cortisol levels. Cortisol is another hormone in your body that helps you combat stress and low blood sugars. When the body produces more cortisol than normal, blood sugars rise. Scientific studies have linked high cortisol levels with acne flare-ups.
Cortisol levels naturally rise in between meals. Even eating the traditional three meals a day causes cortisol to rise. Medical studies have found that eating 17 snacks per day, or the “nibbling” diet, provides the most consistent levels of cortisol in the body. Eating small meals that are low in sugar and carbohydrates can also improve the health of your skin.
When it comes to setting up your meals with your skin in mind, the first thing that you'll want to do is keep hydrated. Not only does drinking water improve just about every healthy function of your body in existence, but it also helps to clear up your skin and provide that fresh, glowing look that you so envy when you see it on other people.
Staying with the theme of keeping hydrated, did you also know that there are foods that you can eat to also help with that? The next time you need a quick snack, rather than reach for sodium-filled chips and other salty treats that can actually lead to hydration, try:
Fighting acne requires a holistic, balanced approach. In addition to eating healthy meals more frequently, consider adding Balance Blends Acne Be Gone Extrapolents™ to your diet. Extrapolents combine herbal extracts and modern-day supplements to help recalibrate imbalanced Qi (pronounced chē, aka energy). This particular natural remedy combines Lian Qiao (Forsythia) with seven other herbs to help clear and prevent acne-forming toxins. Chai Hu (Bupleurum) also works to support the liver meridian system, which is related to skin issues.
We challenge you to combine a healthier lifestyle with the powerful blend of natural herbal-extracts found in Acne Be Gone. Let us help you say good riddance to your adult acne.
Additionally, if your skin problems are creating stress in your life, be sure to check out Just Breathe from Balance Blends, as well as incorporate an adult
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Acne is an extremely common skin problem. Did you know that 80% of people between 11 and 30 have experienced acne breakouts at some point? Maybe the answer is a DIY Acne Mask!
Regardless of how common it is, it’s always uncomfortable to wake up and find pimples and blemishes on your face. You feel like that is all people will notice! And many people go to extreme lengths to cover them up, when realistically, they are only making them more noticeable and causing undue stress. (Be sure to check out Just Breathe from Balance Blends.)
If you have gone to the dermatologist for your acne issues, you’ve probably been prescribed a series of drugs including topical creams, antibiotics, hormone treatments and more. However, some people can have side effects, and not all medications work for all people.
However, did you know that you can often help to control acne naturally at home, without the need for chemical treatments? These can help save you time and money, and you can stay away from overloading on antibiotics.
You’ll only need 4 ingredients for this DIY Acne Mask:
Ingredients:
Directions:
Honey:
Honey is a natural moisturizer and antibacterial. The antibacterial properties are so strong that it can sit on a shelf without going bad for about two years! Honey also has tons of antioxidants that help to fight free radicals that can cause skin damage, and helps to open up pores to prevent blockage.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is mostly known for adding an extra oomph to holiday recipes, but did you know that it has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine? Not only will it help exfoliate your skin in this DIY acne mask to unclog pores and get rid of dead skin, it also helps to improve complexion and skin tone.
Whole Milk
The fat in whole milk will help moisturize your skin, while the lactic acid will help to remove impurities and exfoliate dead skin that could be clogging your pores.
Green Tea
Green tea is the redness and inflammation fighter in this face mask. It works best when its warm, since the higher temperature also helps to reduce inflammation. Green tea is also choc full of antioxidants that fight skin damage and aging.
Drink Plenty of Water - By now, you may be feeling as if staying hydrated is the answer to everything - because, well, it is! When you drink the right amount water, you'll not only wake up feeling rest, but you'll have a better chance of having clearer, healthier skin.
Eat Hydrating Foods - That's right, foods can also provide the extra hydration that your body needs! Some of the best choices include cucumbers, watermelon, citrus fruits, berries and leafy greens.
Pay Attention to What Breaks Out Your Skin - If your breakouts seem to coincide with particular foods that you eat, then you may have already found your culprit. But how do you narrow down what could be wreaking havoc on your skin? Start a food journal! This means writing down every single thing that you eat or drink, including sauces and other condiments. Also, pay particular attention to your dairy intake. Many people find that is where their sensitivities lie.
Stop Touching Your Face - While you may already be hearing this from health professionals, this can also lead to oily skin and, you guessed it, acne! Wash your hands as often as possible, and avoid touching your face, your phone and any other items that can trap grime and oils.
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With these ingredients, not only will you be fighting acne, it also has to properties to improve skin appearance and skin aging, thanks to moisturizing and antioxidant properties.
If you are on a mission to clear up your skin naturally, pair this DIY acne mask with Balance Blends’ Acne Be Gone natural supplement. Each capsule contains a combination Chinese herbal extracts and western conventional supplements that help to clear bacteria naturally while targeting inflammation and redness.
At-home treatments are especially effective if you have adult, non-cystic acne where a lot of conventional pharmaceuticals don’t work.
Have you tried this DIY acne mask? Let us know what you think!
Balance Blends’ Force Field uses the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Herbs to restore balance to your mind and body. Like all of our supplements, Force Field contains Extrapolents, which are a combination of concentrated herbal extracts and modern-day supplements that help to recalibrate and bring balance to an imbalanced Qi (energy).
Most natural immune system supplements rely solely on vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin C, to boost your immune system. There are other well-studied natural options within Chinese Traditional Medicine that help to boost your defense system even more.
In addition to resting and eating properly, taking herbal supplements can help your body cope establish an internal balance that can be offset by internal external factors, thus making us more vulnerable to getting ill. Balance Naturals’ Force Field provides you with a mix of vitamins and traditional Chinese herbs that are carefully formulated to provide your body with the support it needs to stay healthy, balanced and ready to take on the day.
In addition to the healthy effects that Force Field will have on your body, there are also certain lifestyle changes that can dramatically help. Let's take a look at the most important!
Additionally, if you're feeling ill and are experiencing a loss of energy, Quiet Please (also from Balance Blends and in addition to Force Field) can help you get that full night's sleep that you need for your body to heal and restore your energy levels.
And now for the good news – Cramp Whisperer is an herbal solution. And don’t worry – there is no need to make herbal concoctions at home. Balance Blends has created this formula based on centuries-old Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles to relieve menstrual pain and spasms while nourishing the blood. In case you haven’t heard the word extrapolent before, it is an exclusive blend of herbal extracts and modern-day supplements that help to recalibrate imbalanced Qi (internal energy).
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, menstruation only causes cramps where the flow of qi is blocked or disrupted. TCM aims to restore qi flow, and, in turn, relieve pain. Some of the ways to do this are by strengthening the spleen to spark blood flow.
The following herbs and nutrients are found in the Cramp Whisperer Capsules:
Of course, it also never hurts to check out a few tips that can help supplement the cramp relief that Cramp Whisperer will provide. Let's take a look at a few:
Additionally, if your cramps are keeping you awake at night, or if you have regular problems with insomnia, beyond the Cramp Whisperer capsules, also look into Quiet Please from Balance Blends.
However, too much stress is detrimental to your health. Feeling stressed for days, weeks or even months at a time can result in a weakened immune system, high blood pressure and heart disease, tiredness and fatigue, and lack of sleep, among others.
In addition to making lifestyle decisions to help avoid chronic stress, like performing regular physical activity, promoting mental balance and eating a balanced diet, you can take a supplement to help promote internal balance.
Often, there are things that we can do to help lower our stress an anxiety - and they can be simple. Many times, we create undue stress in our lives without even realizing it. Let's take a look at some ideas and tips that you can implement.
When we fill our bodies with fast food and other unhealthy options, gaining weight is not the only way we can suffer. Not providing our body with the foods that it needs can also create stress. Drinking too many caffeinated beverages can also make us jittery and nervous.
We've all probably heard that 30 minutes of daily exercise can help us in a number of positive ways. But did you know that it can also help lower your stress and anxiety? Exercise and other activities can help regulate your hormones, which can be a big factor when it comes to stress.
While it may be easier said than done, avoid thoughts that lead to feelings of anxiety or depression. When you must deal with a stressful situation that you can't avoid, try to at least clear your mind for a bit by listening to calming music or taking a brisk walk. Additionally, if there are negative people in your life that you can avoid, do so at all costs.
Balance Blends offers the Just Breathe capsules that contain nine herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help move your Qi to relieve stress and help you feel calmer.
Here are some of the active ingredients in Balance Blends’ Just Breathe capsules that help to promote stress relief and calm.
Balance Blends offers the Just Breathe capsules that contain the seven Chinese herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and two additional research-backed components to help move your Qi to relieve stress and help you feel calmer.
Take the Just Breathe capsules daily, and you may finally be able to take a restful breath… with this Chinese secret to stress relief.
If you visit any standard dermatologist for your acne problem, it is very likely he or she will prescribe topical or oral antibiotics, or other synthetic chemical-based pills that could have some nasty side-effects and serious risks.
Balance Blends’ Acne Be Gone Natural Acne Remedy is not only meant to treat the symptoms of acne to help clear up your skin, but rather to establish balance at the root of the cause of your acne and skin lesions.
The Chinese Herbs in this formulation have been used for centuries as tried-and-true treatments for bacterial infections and toxins that cause acne. Balance Blends also combines the TCM herbs with vitamins and key amino acids for maximum health benefits.
Below is an explanation of how the different ingredients in the Acne Be Gone Capsules helps to fight acne symptoms and establish a balance at the root cause of acne.
Traditional Chinese Medicinal Herbs:
Vitamins and Amino Acids
Beyond what Acne Be Gone can do for your skin, there are also what we'd like to call "skincare lifestyle changes" that can you can make. Without even realizing it, every day we do little things that can dry out our skin, help it hold too much oil or even create uneven skin tones.
The Acne Be Gone formula combines the wisdom of TCM with the knowledge of western medicine to provide an effective supplement to help clear up your acne. It does this by treating the symptoms while also helping to establish an internal balance in your liver, blood and temperature that may be causing your acne.