Why that hot cup of tea maybe BAD for you !!!

Many of us are so eager to have our cup of tea that we do not wait for it to brew properly, a University of London study revealed last week.

Researchers found that 40 per cent of tea drinkers do not let the tea infuse for two minutes; the time needed to achieve the best flavour.

Not only will you miss out on the taste but there is also another potential problem with being impatient — you are drinking the liquid when it is still very hot, which, research suggests, could be bad for you. 

Drinking a cup of tea in less than two minutes after it was poured has been associated with a five-fold higher risk of cancer, compared with drinking it four or more minutes after being poured

For example, the heat and steam from your cup of tea or coffee can make blood vessels in the nose expand, says Henry Sharpe, a consultant ear, nose and throat surgeon at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust. 

‘This can lead to weakening or rupturing of the vessels, causing nosebleeds. 

‘People prone to nosebleeds are particularly vulnerable, so allow your drinks to cool. 

‘We tell anyone who has had nasal surgery to avoid hot drinks for 40 to 72 hours.’

If you have had a nosebleed, avoid hot drinks for at least 24 hours as that is how long it takes for blood vessels to settle down, says Mr Sharpe. 

And here is what else that warming cuppa might do.

IS IT SAFER TO HAVE MILK IN YOUR TEA?

Drinking steaming hot black tea has been linked with an increased risk of oesophageal cancer.

The disease affects 8,000 people in Britain each year. 

In Europe it tends to be associated with smoking, obesity and alcohol, rather than hot drinks.

However, researchers at the University of Tehran have suggested that hot black tea may also be a risk factor. 

They studied the tea-drinking habits of 300 people diagnosed with oesophageal cancer and compared them with healthy people.

Nearly all of the participants drank black tea regularly; more than a litre a day on average. 

Drinking steaming hot black tea has been linked with an increased risk of oesophageal cancer. The disease affects 8,000 people in Britain each year

 

HOT DRINKS MAKES SKIN CONDITIONS WORSE 

People with rosacea may find that it gets worse when they have hot drinks. 

The condition, which affects one in ten people, causes chronic facial flushing.

‘Many patients in my practice find the redness gets worse when they drink hot drinks and improves when they replace them with cold drinks,’ says Dr John Ashworth, consultant dermatologist at Bridgewater NHS Trust, Cheshire.

This may be because a rise in body temperature affects the blood vessels around the body which regulate heat, including those in the face, he says.

If you have sensitive teeth, perhaps from tooth grinding or brushing too hard, avoid hot drinks altogether. Teeth that have just been whitened may also feel sensitive

COULD YOUR TASTEBUDS BE DESTROYED?

Damaging the tastebuds can cause a rough, painful feeling on your tongue but it would take drinking hot drinks repeatedly and scalding the tongue extensively to affect taste sensation permanently

Hot drinks can damage the tastebuds. 

‘These are very delicate nerve endings around the tongue and they can get damaged like any other cells when exposed to very hot liquid,’ says Mr Cascarini.

‘Fortunately, the tongue is covered with millions of tastebuds so if it happens as a one-off, it shouldn’t really affect your sense of taste.’

Damaging the tastebuds can cause a rough, painful feeling on your tongue but it would take drinking hot drinks repeatedly and scalding the tongue extensively to affect taste sensation permanently.

P.S.HOT COFFEE CAN MAKE YOU KINDER

On the plus side, holding a hot drink could make you seem more friendly.

In 2008, researchers at Yale University found that when people held a warm cup of coffee, they judged others to be more generous and caring.

If they had been holding an iced coffee, however, they took a less positive view towards others.

Another study from Yale found that people who are holding something hot instead of cold (in this case, heated or frozen therapeutic pads) are more likely to give something to others.

They were more likely to take something for themselves if they had been holding something cold.

The researchers believe that the insula (the part of the brain in which judgments about others are formed and also where we process warmth) is affected by an ‘agree- able’ temperature range.

The findings may also be linked to positive associations from cuddling our parents when we were young.

Apply This Homemade Skin Lightening Cream On Your Face Before Sleeping & See The Magic

 

source :

Simple Beauty Secrets

WHAT IS SKIN POLISHING?

Skin polishing is one of the ways to enhance the beauty of skin. You can try skin polishing remedies either by visiting beauty parlours or at home. Read on to know how you can carry out skin polishing technique at home for enhancing the beauty of your skin naturally.
Skin polishing in simple words is a special technique of exfoliating skin. The dead cells are removed which helps new and healthy cells to come in place of that and the skin looks clean and polished. So, if you want to give your skin a nice and fresh glow, you can go for skin polishing.
Why Skin Polishing?

Our skin is exposed to a variety of things like sun rays, dust, pollution and many more. This makes it lose the natural luster and shine. Well, we need to exfoliate our skin at regular intervals so that we can protect it from the adverse effects of these attacking elements.

Skin care has always been an important part of the routine for every man and woman. But, the amount of exposure and roughness that our skin faces these days, the time given to it in the hectic schedule is very less. However, the best thing is that we can exfoliate or polish our skin at home and you do not even have to spend a lot of time for that.
Skin Polishing at Home

The basic things that we need for skin polishing at home are as follows:

• Pure olive oil
• Exfoliating sugar body scrub
• Pumice stone
• Skin exfoliating kit

Starting from the face, you should keep in mind that the skin of the face is sensitive and so you need gentle exfoliant for that. First use warm water to moisten your face and then use the exfoliant. Using circular motion gently rub taking care of the soft areas around eyes. If you suffer from acne, avoid mechanical polishing and also use a facial peel before this so that your skin gets smoother.

To polish your body, take a warm water bath and steam up your bathroom. Apply olive oil all over the body and wait for 10 minutes. Apply gentle sugar body scrub all over your body with the help of polishing cloth. Make sure your movements are circular. You can apply slightly more pressure so that your skin gets exfoliated thoroughly. If you use pumice stone to rub your knees, heels and elbows, apply Vaseline before you do that.

Now, you can rinse your body with warm water. Gently rub with your hands and you can leave the olive oil so that it keeps your body moisturised. Do not rub your skin with towel after polishing it. Pat dry and that too gently.

There is no need to rub your skin hard. Also, remember that it is enough to exfoliate your skin twice weekly. You will get a flawless and perfectly shining skin.
Natural Skin Polishing

There are some other combinations of elements for skin polishing.

• Brown sugar and jojoba oil – Mix ½ cup of jojoba oil, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of orange oil and 4 – 5 capsules of Vitamin E in a bowl.
• Sugar and strawberry scrub – Mix ½ spoon of almond oil, two ripe strawberries mashed and 10 teaspoons of raw sugar and prepare the body scrub.
• Baking soda and aloe vera – Take two tablespoon of baking soda and add fresh aloe vera juice to it.
• Wheat flour and olive oil – Take two tablespoons of wheat flour and add half teaspoon of turmeric and half teaspoon of olive oil. Mix well and your body scrub is ready.

Now you have learnt the technique and you have some options too. Pamper your skin with these treatments and do give it a try. It will help you achieve the radiance you are looking for.

Do This Every Morning to Look As Young As 18

 

source :

BRIGHT SIDE

5 Ways Exercise Makes You Gorgeous

Working out isn’t all about dropping pounds or prepping for your next triathlon. Regular exercise also gives you a healthy, glowing look and an unmistakable va-va-voom that you just can’t get any other way.

Anyone who makes a habit of going to the gym, unfurling a yoga mat or hiking in the woods is privy to a secret known only to the physically active: The rewards of exercise extend far beyond slimming down or adding muscle tone. Dozens of subtle changes visibly revamp the body and the psyche in ways scientists are only beginning to understand.

Maybe your skin looks brighter, your step is springier or you’re more confident at work. Such small victories may go unnoticed by unobservant exercisers, but those on the lookout for these benefits will find them every bit as valid as gains measured by scales and calipers.

Scientists chalk up such fitness boons to a range of powerful physiological and biochemical processes triggered by regular exercise. “Every cell in the human body benefits from physical activity,” says Tim Church, MD, PhD, the director of preventative medicine at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, La. And, he says, you feel tangible rewards right away. “Within an hour of exercising, you feel less anxious; that night you sleep better; and for 72 hours afterward your body processes blood sugar more efficiently.”

Need more incentive to lace up your sneakers? Here’s a peek into a few of the ways exercise can make you look and feel fantastic.

1. Smoother, More Radiant Skin

Genma Holmes, 43, was horrified when she broke out in adult acne three years ago. “I was 40 and felt like a hot mess because my face was dotted with pimples,” says the working mom from Nashville, Tenn. Then, last year, she started walking two miles a day and working out on an elliptical trainer three times a week. Sure, she expected to shape up, but she was shocked when her acne cleared. “Looking in a full-length mirror and seeing a slimmer me is great, but looking in a compact mirror and not seeing blackheads is even better,” she says.

Holmes’s clearer skin comes as no surprise to Audrey Kunin, MD, a dermatologist in Kansas City, Mo., and author of The DERMAdoctor Skinstruction Manual (Simon & Schuster, 2005). Working up a good sweat is the equivalent of getting a mini-facial, she says. “When the pores dilate, sweat expels trapped dirt and oil. Just be sure to wash your face afterward so the gunk doesn’t get sucked back into the pores.”

Working up a good sweat is the equivalent of getting a mini-facial.

Breaking a sweat isn’t the only way exercise benefits the skin — it also reduces bodywide inflammation, helps regulate skin-significant hormones and prevents free-radical damage. When you exercise, the tiny arteries in your skin open up, allowing more blood to reach the skin’s surface and deliver nutrients that repair damage from the sun and environmental pollutants. These nutrients also rev up the skin’s collagen production, thwarting wrinkles. “As we age, fibroblasts [the collagen-producing cells in the skin] get lazier and fewer in number,” Kunin says. “But the nutrients delivered to the skin during exercise help fibroblasts work more efficiently, so your skin looks younger.”

For more ways exercise improves your skin, read “Exercise Makes Skin Healthier“.

2. Greater Self-Confidence

Confident people radiate a certain physical appeal and charisma. A recent British study found that people who began a regular exercise program at their local gym felt better about their self-worth, their physical condition and their overall health compared with their peers who stayed home. The best part was that their self-worth crept up right away — even before they saw a significant change in their bodies.

“You don’t need to improve your fitness level to improve your self-perception of how fit you are,” says Adrian Taylor, PhD, an exercise researcher at the University of Exeter in England and the study’s lead investigator. And from there it’s only a short leap to enjoying healthier self-esteem, he adds. “Our self-worth is directly tied to our energy levels, our feelings of competence and our perceived attractiveness.” And nothing is more gorgeous than the self-assurance that comes from feeling good in your own skin.

3. Increased Stature

Annie Appleby, 45, a yoga instructor and founder of YogaForce LLC in San Francisco, took up yoga as a means to relieve stress. But it wasn’t until she had a checkup a few years later that she saw the full effects of her practice. When the doctor measured her height, they both noticed she’d grown an inch and a half. “I couldn’t believe it,” she says. “I’d always wanted to be taller; now I fit into my clothes better and feel more spacious in my body.”

No one has studied precisely why exercise makes you taller, but activities that stretch and strengthen muscles at the same time, like yoga or Pilates, can correct bad posture and therefore add height, says Dan Bradley, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at the Texas Back Institute in Denton, Texas. Hunching makes some muscle groups contract and others lengthen, he explains, which subtracts height. “If you actively work to bring muscles back into balance, your back will lengthen, your posture will improve and you can grow taller.”

If you actively work to bring muscles back into balance, your back will lengthen, your posture will improve and you can grow taller.

People with swayed backs benefit most from core strengthening exercises, such as planks, farmer’s walks and bird dogs. For hunched shoulders, working on strengthening the upper back using resistance with bands, machines or free weights can help restore lost height. And, of course, exercise that improves posture tends to also make you look thinner, fitter and more confident.

4. Less Stress and Anxiety

Anxiety, fearfulness and uncertainty all drain your vitality and dampen your mood, which in turn tends to show on your face and in the way you carry yourself. Roughly 40 million Americans over 18 suffer from anxiety disorders, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health — that’s nearly 20 percent of all adults — and for many of them, that anxiety strips both the smile from their face and the spring from their step. Exercise has been shown to alleviate most mild to moderate cases of anxiety, and can very quickly improve mood.

Exercise has been shown to alleviate most mild to moderate cases of anxiety, and can very quickly improve mood.

Jack Raglin, PhD, a sport psychologist at Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind., is only half-joking when he says, “Exercise is like taking a tranquilizer, but better because you get the side effect of improved health and fitness.” Studies out of Raglin’s lab suggest that as little as 15 minutes of exercise bestows a calm that can last for hours. As for what kind of exercise elicits the biggest response, he recommends either heart-thumping aerobic exercise, like running, cycling or swimming, or a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic exercise, such as weight training.

In one study, Raglin and his team recruited 16 athletes, tested their anxiety levels, then put them through 30 minutes of resistance training and another 30 minutes of cycling. Afterward, they rechecked the students’ stress levels and found that they had plummeted within 10 minutes of wrapping up the workout and continued to decline for the next hour.

For Dorothy Foltz-Gray, 61, a writer in Knoxville, Tenn., going for a bike ride at the end of a hectic workday delivers even faster results. “I can leave my desk anxious from a day of work, grab my bike and in a few minutes have a smile on my face as I glide along a bike path,” she says. “Suddenly I’m 12 years old again, grinning at all the other bikers who grin back because they are feeling the same burst of freedom.”

5. More Restful Sleep

Plagued by dark circles? You’re not alone. As many as 60 million Americans wrestle with insomnia, according to a recent Harvard Medical School report. A slew of studies show exercise can elicit longer, more restful sleep. Why? Well, an intense workout may leave you more hungry for shuteye recovery time, but there’s more to it than that. Shawn Talbott, PhD, nutritional biochemist and author of The Metabolic Method (Current Book, 2008), explains that exercise sharpens the body’s sensitivity to the stress hormone cortisol, which can enhance sleep. Sleeping better leaves you looking fresh and healthy.

Here’s how it works: When your boss yells at you, the body spews cortisol to help muscles either duke it out or run like the wind. But, instead, if you sit and seethe at your desk, the cortisol stays in the bloodstream, like a racecar circling the track in a speedway. If the stress is chronic, the presence of cortisol 24/7 blunts the body’s cellular receptors, muting the hormone’s arousal call. That lack of sensitivity causes the adrenal glands to make more, just to get the body’s attention. “It’s like your body turns the volume up full-blast to get the message across,” says Talbott.

As a result, the body’s natural cortisol rhythms (high in the morning, low in the evening) “flatten out,” he explains, which can leave you mentally wound up at night — and carrying excess baggage under your eyes the next day.

Exercise is essentially a release valve for cortisol, helping you sleep more soundly and greet the day looking more refreshed.

3 Natural Ways To Use Pomegranate For Healthy Skin

3 DIY Pomegranate Face Packs & Face Masks For Skin Whitening

Remember the time when entire afternoons were spent by our grandmothers peeling pomegranates and educating you about its various health benefits? Well, get ready to be nostalgic, because we are going to give you great tips on how to use pomegranates every day for beautiful skin.

---

There are so many different ways to use pomegranate for skin in your daily routine. And you’re in luck today, because we intend to divulge plenty of secrets as well as great recipes for a pomegranate face mask!

1.  Pomegranate Juice: 

If you are tired of continuous and painful breakouts, then pomegranate juice for skin is the answer to your prayers. This heavenly juice is not only good for you if you consume it, but it also has healing and oil controlling properties. 

Steps To Use:

1. Take 2 Tbsp. of pomegranate juice in your palms along with Olay Natural White 7 IN ONE Instant Glowing Fairness with UV Protection cream and rub on affected areas before sleeping every night.
2. Wash with mild face wash in the morning.
3. You will see your acne disappear in no time.
4. Use 1 Tbsp. of pomegranate juice as a cleanser instead of buying one from a store.

2.  Pomegranate Seed Oil:

You’ve always wondered how those beautiful women on screen get such naturally flawless skin in their Instagram photos as well. Been there, done that. Here are a few tricks.   

i)   Pomegranate Seed Oil To Heal Dry & Cracked Skin:

To heal dry and cracked skin, use a few drops of pomegranate seed oil every day as a moisturiser. You will never need to buy any other moisturiser except this, ever again!

ii)   Pomegranate Seed Oil To Reduce Inflammation:

Rub in a couple of drops of Pomegranate seed oil on the affected area. It will not only provide a soothing effect to your skin but also heal it faster.

iii)   Pomegranate Seed Oil To Get Rid Of Scars On Skin:

We’ve all faced oil burns and unnecessary cuts in our life, which leave nasty scars on the skin. Fret not, this wonderful oil helps heal these scars and leaves your skin feeling supple as well.

3.  Pomegranate Face Pack

Our pomegranate for skin whitening face mask will give your skin a breath of freshness! These face packs will help you get the radiance you’ve always dreamed of.

#1 Pomegranate Face Pack For Naturally Glowing Skin:

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp. pomegranate seed oil
• 1 tsp. green papaya powder
• 1 tsp. grapeseed oil
• 1 tsp. of grapeseed extracts.

Procedure:

1. Mix well and apply to your face for half an hour.
2. Wash off with cool water. See your natural skin tone restore over a couple of more applications.

Also, check out 8 amazing besan face pack recipes to get clear glowing skin here.

#2 Pomegranate Face Pack To Get Rid Of Sun Tan:

Ingredients:
If the sun left you a little darker than expected, all you’ll need is

• ½ a tsp. of lemon juice
• 1 tbsp. of pomegranate paste (Just blend some pomegranate seeds).

Procedure:

1. Apply the mixture to your face and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Wash with water.
3. Your tan should disappear before you even know it.

#3 Pomegranate Face Pack For Acne Breakout:

Ingredients:

This face mask to control your acne breakouts needs

• 2 tbsp. of pomegranate paste
• 1 tbsp. of yoghurt
• 1 tsp. green tea powder
• 1 tbsp. of honey

Procedure:

1. Make a smooth paste and keep on your face for 30-40 minutes.
2. Repeat once a week for a few weeks and say good bye to painful acne forever!

Find more useful daily skin care tips here.

Winter special ROSE GLOW SERUM | Get Pink White Glowy, Shiny, Youthful and Spotless Skin Naturally

 

source : NATURAL BEAUTY TIPS

5 Simple Ways To Get Rid Of Freckles On Face Permanently

As they say, girls can kill to get flawless skin that actresses and models have. Well, there is no need to kill anybody when home remedies can do the trick for you. If you do not like the freckles on your face, you can easily fade them away at home with natural remedies. Read on to know how!

Adding to the woes of acne, blackheads, and whiteheads, freckles are something that most of us just don’t want to deal with. Though there are a few who see freckles as cute and unique, most of us want them gone. Nothing that interferes with our clear skin is ever welcome, isn’t it? You can add freckles to the list of “Please don’t ever come back!”

So, what exactly are these freckles? And how can you get rid of them with home remedies? This article goes into all those details. Keep reading!

 

What Are Freckles?

Freckles are tiny brown spots on your skin, usually the size of a tip of a needle or nail. They are seen on facial skin, arms, and shoulders mostly due to over exposure to the sun. This makes them more common among people with fair skin that is sensitive to sun damage.

Home Remedies To Remove Freckles

1. Apple Cider Vinegar For Freckles

Image: Shutterstock

7 Micellar Water Hacks You Need to Know

 

source :  Beauty with Susan Yara

12 Tips to Keep Skin Soft and Glowing In Winter

Winter weather is not fun for skin. Cold weather and low humidity levels result in dry air, which then steals moisture away from the skin every second of every day. Without immediate care, dry skin can lead to cracking and bleeding, and harsh winter wind makes the problem worse. Indoor heat further robs the air of moisture, as do hot showers or baths and harsh cleansers.

Additional moisture helps, but you need to do more to actually counteract these effects and keep skin looking youthful and smooth. To reduce chapping, redness, itching, and keep skin more healthy and comfortable this season, try these tips.

1. Wash in Lukewarm Water

Hot showers and baths always feel good in the winter, but when you can, particularly when just washing your face or hands, choose lukewarm water to avoid stripping as many oils away from the skin.

2. Moisturize Immediately Afterwards

Your skin not only needs more moisture, but moisture right after you wash. Applying moisture to damp skin helps seal that dampness into the skin. Keep a bottle near the bathtub, shower stall, and at every sink and use liberally every time you wash.

3. Choose Moisturizer Carefully

Some over-the-counter moisturizers have petroleum-based ingredients that can actually further dry your skin in the winter months. Be sure to choose a smart formula that has natural, nourishing ingredients. Go for an oil-based rather than a water-based solution, as it’s more likely to help your skin retain moisture in the winter. Try Indie Lee’s natural moisturizing oils, as they’re made with natural, hydrating ingredients like lavender, chamomile, jojoba, and more, which help soothe dry, itchy skin.

4. Protect

Get used to wearing gloves and scarves to protect skin from cold winds, rain, and snow. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen. Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, so apply a safe option like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to any exposed areas.

5. Humidify

Heating systems dry out the air, so consider installing a humidifier in your home, particularly in your bedroom, to put moisture back into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out.

6. Drink

We tend to drink less water in the winter because we turn to hot drinks like cocoa and tea, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration from the inside, out. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time.

7. Overnight Moisturize

Dryer areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees have thin skin and tend to lose moisture faster than other areas on the body. Consider slathering on a deep moisturizing balm Skin Food by Weleda at night, then wear cotton gloves and socks to seal in the moisture until morning.

8. Exfoliate

We often forget to help the skin slough off dead cells in the winter, particularly on our hands. Yet moisture can’t get in if the dead cells are too plentiful. Find an exfoliating mask and use it on your face and your hands, as well as gently on your lips, then follow immediately with moisture to truly see a smoother difference. Exfoliating body washes are also helpful in the winter months.

9. Avoid Toxins, Specifically Allergens and Irritants

Particularly if you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, you have to avoid allergens and irritants that may trigger a flare up. Winter skin is more fragile, so avoid irritating fabrics (like wool) and chemical-laden detergents, and use mild cleansers and moisturizers designed for sensitive skin. In addition, glutathione is considered the “master anti-oxidant” and helps your body detox.

10. Hydrate From the Inside Out

Eating foods high in water content can help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery veggies like celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin C and zinc to support the healthy production of collagen and elastin. Also consider Be Well’s omega-3 supplement, or consume more fatty fish and flaxseed to give your skin the building blocks it needs to appear supple and smooth.

11. Change Your Cleanser

Cleansers can be extremely drying to the skin. If you’re used to using options that contain glycolic or salicylic acid, rotate with a more hydrating version that contains moisturizing ingredients. Try like Suki Naturals Moisture-Rich Cleansing Lotion, or for really dry skin, try a cleansing balm like Ren No. 1 Purity Cleansing Balm. After cleansing, don’t leave the skin naked for more than 30 seconds, as this can dehydrate it, leading to increased dryness. Apply a hydrating toner and moisturizer to seal in moisture.

12. Use DIY Masks

Homemade hydrating masks can provide needed moisture in the winter months. Use natural moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, yogurt, olive and jojoba oils, almond oil, bananas, and aloe. Mix what you like together to create a cream or paste, and leave on skin for 10-30 minutes for lasting hydration.

Do you have other tips for pampering winter skin? Please share them with our readers.

Why is My Skin Oily and What Causes it?

Do you notice your skin is often shiny, your makeup easily “sweats” off your face, and you can never seem to stop a smattering of pimples from attacking your skin? These are the daily woes of people who struggle with oily skin.

If you’ve noticed your skin exhibits quite a bit of shine and you easily break out, you likely have an oily skin type or combination skin type. Take a look at our quick rundown of these two skin types and determine which accurately describes you:

Oily Skin Type

Those who have oily skin often have shine on their face, and may deal with breakouts on a regular basis. Oily skin types usually have larger, more noticeable pores.

Combination Skin Type

This is the most commonly reported skin type. This skin type exhibits two skin types on the face. The skin in the T-zone will often be oily, while the cheeks and other portions of the face may be dry and cracking.

What Causes Oily Skin?

Our body produces oil to help keep our skin soft and supple, but if too much sebum is produced, it can lead to acne flare-ups and oiliness which are some of the leading causes of acne. The next time you ask yourself “why is my face so oily?”, remember that there are two main factors to blame: hormones and genetics.

Oily skin is known medically as seborrhea and is caused by excess skin oil produced within the pores. During puberty and other life events, fluctuating hormones can result in increased androgen levels – androgens are considered one of the top oily skin causes. Androgens are male hormones present in both males and females that signal the maturation of the skin’s sebaceous glands. As these glands mature, oil production increases.

The higher amount of androgens present, the more sebum is funneled through the pores, which then sits on the surface of the skin, creating an oily sheen. Should this excess oil become trapped in the pore and combine with dead skin cells and bacteria on the surface of the skin and inside the pore, pimples, blackheads, and other blemishes will form.

It’s also important to note the role that genetics can play in oily skin. In most acne patients, the reaction to hormonal changes is dependent on genes and hormones. Life events like puberty or pregnancy can result in hormone fluctuations, and genetics and hereditary factors can determine how your skin reacts to these hormone fluctuations.

When Does Oily Skin Go Away?

Some people see their oily skin fade with time, especially after puberty finishes. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for everyone.

Typically the main causes of oily skin are due to puberty and adolescence, and severity tapers off as a person matures into adulthood. Because our genes direct how we respond to hormone fluctuations, excess sebum production may be something inherent to your skin and body processes. Unfortunately, this means some of us never grow out of it. Luckily, our clear skin guide details ways to keep your oily face in check.

How to Cut Down on Shine

Looking for ways to cut down on that unsightly shine? It’s as simple as sticking to a daily skin care regimen or guide to acne prevention. The reduction of oil and acne from dieting is also a common practice.

Consistent Cleansing

Cleaning your face daily with a gentle cleanser that utilizes effective acne treatment ingredients can help you cut down on oil production. It’s important to wash once in the morning, and once before going to bed to ensure all debris, makeup, and dead skin cells are removed from the face as they are a some of the more common oily face causes.

If you participate in any form of exercise that results in heavy perspiration, always be sure to gently remove sweat and shower immediately as it can be one of the reasons for oily skin problems. Also remove tight, sweaty clothes that can result in acne mechanica on the body, common among students and athletes.

Cleansing products containing vitamin a for acne reduction is another approach you can take. Excessive shine on a person’s face due to oil is a source of insecurity. Substantial research has pointed to vitamin A as an aid for your oily complexion.

Those that ask themselves “why is my skin so oily?” may also notice they have oily hair. This can be remedied with regular washing and medicated shampoo treatments. It’s important to also avoid greasy hair products like pomades and waxes, as they can irritate the scalp and block pores, causing oily skin and hair.

Salicylic Acid Combats Oil

BioClarity combines the power of effective natural ingredients and salicylic acid to help tackle acne breakouts and blemishes. Salicylic acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid that dissolves keratin, helping exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells, debris, and bacteria that can clog the pores and cause blemishes. BioClarity’s Step 2 Treatment gel contains the highest allowable percentage of this acne-fighting ingredient to help unclog pores and keep the skin clear and blemish-free.

Some acne treatments may contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, but this harsh compound has actually been proven to cause a great deal of redness and irritation. It can result in excessive dryness and skin flaking, and if you have sensitive skin, it’s important to steer clear of this ingredient. Choosing between benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acidfor your acne treatment is a hot topic. Knowing the answer to the question “what type of acne do I have” is imperative to understanding what treatment and ingredients to integrate into your regimen.

Blotting Sheets

Beyond consistent cleansing, there are a few ways you can combat shine throughout the day. Blotting your skin lightly with oil-absorbing materials can help keep shine down on particularly shiny days. If you do use such products, take a measure of caution. Only blot lightly, as wiping the skin can result in irritation and aggravate your acne condition. Always avoid any facial tissues that contain lotion or fragrances, as these additions can irritate sensitive skin.

The Benefits of Oily Skin

Okay sure, some shine may cause a bit of embarrassment, and reapplying makeup after it slides off can be frustrating, but there are benefits to having oily skin.

Most skin care experts agree that those with oily or combination skin types often age more slowly. Oily skin remains lubricated, preventing fine lines and wrinkles. You may not enjoy it now, but with proper skin care, you may find your skin benefits from that excess sebum down the road.

Does Moisturizer Cause Oily Skin?

Putting moisturizer on top of oily skin might seem counterproductive, but a regular moisturizing routine is vital, even for those with oily and combination skin types. Avoiding moisturizer may dry out your skin, and cause your glands to produce more sebum, resulting in even more oil.

Stick to oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers. Avoid heavy or greasy moisturizers if you have acne-prone skin.

Recommended Product: Hydrate – Skin Smoothie

Note: If you have combination skin, you may need to use two types of moisturizer to best treat your skin. Use a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizer for your T-zone, and a thicker cream moisturizer for dry areas of the face.

Lifestyle Habits that May Affect Oily Skin

There are many ways that daily habits and lifestyle choices can affect your skin, and impact the appearance of oil.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting the right amount of rest each night is important to holistic health, and it also can significantly affect the look and appearance of the skin. Sleep deprivation can result in insulin resistance. Insulin increases can result in the creation of IGF-1, a hormone that stimulates an increase in the production of sebum.

Keep Your Stress in Check

Be sure to manage your stress, as it has been connected to insulin resistance and worsened breakouts in numerous studies. Exercise regularly, practice meditation, and talk to a friend or family member if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Always Wear Sunscreen

No matter your skin type, it’s important to use daily SPF to keep your skin safe and looking its best. However, with oily skin, it’s important to take a look at the type of sunscreen you’re using to avoid blocking up those pores. Look for sunscreen gels that are labeled oil-free.

If you wear makeup, look for light foundation products that contain SPF for an added bit of protection.

Makeup Practices

Makeup doesn’t necessarily cause acne, but with misuse, it can become a problem. Look for non-comedogenic makeup products, and always apply in light layers. Always be sure to remove every last bit of makeup before going to bed and before working out or heading to the gym.

Avoid any cosmetics that contain fragrances as these can irritate the skin and result in acne blemishes, along with dry, flaky patches on the skin.

Key Takeaways

• Oily skin is the result of excess sebum production, which can be caused by hormonal fluctuations and influenced by genetics.
• Salicylic acid is a powerful acne fighting ingredient that can help cut down on the appearance of oil and blemishes on the skin.
• Those with oily skin should still use moisturizer, as drying out the skin can signal the oil glands to produce even more sebum.
• Lifestyle habits can affect the appearance of the skin, so it’s important to get the right amount of rest, maintain a consistent cleansing routine, and avoid irritating products.

Must-Have Tips to Save Your Skin This Winter

For all those in favor of healthy and intact skin this winter, here are a few suggestions for keeping your skin from falling off (at least until April).

Ahh winter. A time of swirling snow, cozy nights by the fireplace, carefree jaunts through an iced-over wood and mugs of steaming cocoa. Right…if you live in a Disney movie. For the rest of us, winter typically means pushing through heavy wind and dodging freezing snow for the shelter of a room that will be full of hot, dry, moisture-sucking air. So much for those visions of carefree snowball fights and rosy cheeks.

And as if battling arctic weather weren’t bad enough, you’ve also got to contend with what it can do to your skin. Because the thing about winter skincare is that it’s not just a case of, “oh I’ll deal with it once I notice a problem.” No, this isn’t a haircut you get on a whim because you woke up after having a dream about pixie cuts. Winter skincare is about being proactive and then maintaining so you don’t have to chase a problem and hope you can figure out a way to fix it.

Put your trust in oil.

The true power of a great face oil is that it will prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin. Since moisture is in short supply during the winter, and the moisture your skin does manage to retain will likely be sucked up by dry air from a heater, keeping as much of it in as possible is crucial. If you’re game, try swapping your standard daytime moisturizer for a lightweight oil like rosehip to ensure your face is ready for the day’s elements. (Oil under makeup will also impart a lovely, soft dewy-ness if that’s something you’re into.)

And at night, definitely incorporate an oil into your skincare routine if you haven’t already. Not only will the oil be able to work its restorative magic while you sleep, but it’ll also seal in everything else you put on your face before it, securely locking it all in for the evening. Just be sure to apply the oil last (remember, lightest to heaviest) or else anything you put on next won’t be able to reach the skin.

To get the most out of your oil, you’ll also want to pay attention to how you’re applying it. If your skin is raw or sensitive from the weather, the last thing you want to do is haphazardly slap product on your face and vigorously rub it in. (Actually, you never want to do this, even if you have the healthiest skin in the world.) Instead, add a few drops of oil to your palms and gently rub ‘em together to warm up the oil and wake up the active ingredients. Then place both of your hands against your face and push, like you’re giving yourself a very gentle hi-five, and repeat over your whole face for 30 seconds. Why the elongated application? It’s kinder on your delicate skin, it helps with blood flow, and it pushes the oil deeper into your skin without disturbing the carefully layered products you’ve already applied.

Choose your moisturizer wisely.

If your skin needs it, by all means add a moisturizer to your routine as well. A great, lightweight moisturizer applied beneath an oil is an unstoppable combination. The moisturizer gets to the heart of the skin’s hydration needs while the oil locks it all in. That said, be sure to choose your moisturizer carefully: opt for one that’s free of petroleum-based ingredients like paraffin wax, mineral oil and anything that ends in -eth. Ingredients like this can actually do more harm than good by temporarily hydrating skin, only to block pores and cause skin to suffocate. Instead, find a moisturizer with nourishing, gentle plant-based ingredients and an oil base. Water-based creams are fine in warmer weather, but a moisturizer that has an oil base will help keep the good-for-you ingredients in the skin (see the first point for why!).

Get scrubbing.

Though it may seem counterintuitive to scrub your skin when you’re trying to get it to stay put, exfoliating is an integral part of winter skincare. As we try to get as much moisture as possible into the skin, we need to clear a path for those products to penetrate. If there’s a bunch of dead skin cells hanging around, that path is blocked and our skin stays thirsty. Using oil and moisturizers regularly won’t do you any good if you’re not starting with a primed surface, so remember to exfoliate at least once a week.

 

If you like a physical exfoliant, opt for a powder you can add moisture to. These will effectively get rid of dead skin without stripping your face of natural oils, and offer a choose-your-own-adventure scenario when it comes to the moisture component. If you’re feeling particularly flakey, adding less water will force a bit more elbow grease. Want to use it as a mask, too? Swap Manuka honey for water and let it sit for a while before gently sloughing it away. You can also use this type of exfoliant on your lips, neck, chest, hands…anywhere you want to feel smoother.

Rethink your cleanser.

Your skin is already dealing with enough dehydrating factors — don’t willingly add another to the list with the wrong cleanser. If your standard face wash contains an acid (glycolic or salicylic) or is super foamy, consider a cleanser rotation. Use a hydrating, non-drying milky cleanser that contains hydrating ingredients in the morning and your standard one at night. Or go every other day. Find a pattern that works for you, or just listen to your skin and wash it with a product that makes sense given how it’s feeling at the time.