If one of your "spring cleaning' goals is to up your skincare game to make sure you have a complexion that glows like there’s no tomorrow, the answer may be the ingredients you use. Going for a natural, minimal skincare routine might be just what you need to improve your skin’s texture, clarity, and brightness. Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated! If you’re ready to ditch your drugstore skincare routine and go natural for a youthful glow, here’s what you need to know about the best natural skincare ingredients.
While you may be used to peppermint in products like gum, toothpaste, or candles, it also has impressive benefits when it comes to skincare. Peppermint is great for penetrating the skin for a deep, thorough clean. Plus, it leaves you with an energizing, refreshing tingle. Our Isabel Peppermint Facial Cleansing Bar can be a key step in your natural skincare for glowing skin routine if you’re looking for a deep, fresh clean as a base for the rest of your skincare.
Vitamin C is one of the most popular skincare ingredients across natural and synthetic skincare products, and for good reason! Vitamin C is a great ingredient to aid in anti-aging efforts, brighten your skin tone, tighten the look of pores, and more! You can get natural derivatives of Vitamin C from a tropical fruit blend that includes pomegranate, açaí, goji berries, and more, like the blend found in the Gaby Antioxidant-Rich and Soothing Serum. This serum helps tackle the visible signs of age and gives skin a fresh, even glow.
Green tea is an ingredient with a host of benefits, from skincare to ingestion. Drinking green tea can help you reduce stress, which is proven to help your skin complexion. However, it is also a powerful natural agent in the fight against redness and irritation. Green tea in skincare is a gentle but effective way to give your skin an even tone devoid of red patches and puffiness.
If you’re looking for a skincare ingredient that delivers powerful hydration that won’t upset sensitive skin, consider products that contain niacinamide. Niacinamide is a naturally occurring compound that helps heal and soothe skin and improve moisture level for a glowing look. Get relief from itchy, cracked skin with a thick and luxurious natural cream like the Aida Intensely Hydrating Face Cream. This cream contains a host of natural skincare ingredients to help your skin feel soothed, freshened, and properly hydrated.
Another skincare ingredient to look out for in products is moringa. Moringa is a natural skin moisturizer that gives sensitive or extremely dry skin a hydrated look and feel. You can find moringa in day and night creams like the Aida Face Cream, which is thick enough for use at night but gentle enough for use during the day.
There's your starting line up for some of the most popular and effective natural skin care ingredients!
]]>Eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to keep your skin looking healthy and vibrant. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can cause skin problems like acne, dullness, and wrinkles. To achieve healthy skin, it's essential to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Leafy Greens: Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and arugula are rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy skin. They're particularly high in vitamin C, which is crucial for collagen production and radiant skin.
Berries: Berries are loaded with antioxidants that protect your skin from free radicals and premature aging. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are especially high in vitamin C, which boosts collagen production and keeps your skin glowing.
Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, which keep your skin moisturized and supple. They're also high in vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that protects your skin from damage.
Fatty Fish: Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation, a major contributor to acne and other skin problems. Eating fatty fish keeps your skin clear and healthy.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A. Vitamin A regulates cell turnover and prevents dry, flaky skin, making sweet potatoes essential for healthy, radiant skin.
While skincare products can improve the appearance of your skin, a healthy, balanced diet is the foundation of healthy, glowing skin. Eating whole, unprocessed foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help keep your skin looking its best.
So the next time you're tempted to indulge in junk food, remember that what you eat affects your skin's appearance. Choose foods that promote healthy, radiant skin and enjoy the benefits of a glowing complexion.
Looking for quick and easy ideas? Check out this blog post for some amazing skin-loving smoothie recipes!
]]>Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a botanical ingredient that is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. It is an excellent moisturizer that can help hydrate your skin after a facial laser treatment. It is also non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores. Jojoba oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling. It can also help regulate your skin's oil production, making it an excellent choice for people with oily skin.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a botanical ingredient that has been used for centuries to soothe and heal the skin. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for calming irritated skin after a facial laser treatment. Chamomile can also help hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity.
Cucumber
Cucumber is a botanical ingredient that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It has a cooling effect on the skin, which can help reduce redness and swelling after a facial laser treatment. Cucumber is also an excellent moisturizer and can help hydrate dry skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin.
Green Tea
Green tea is a botanical ingredient that is rich in antioxidants. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling after a facial laser treatment. Green tea can also help protect your skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, which can cause premature aging. It is an excellent moisturizer and can help hydrate your skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.
Using Botanical Ingredients after a Facial Laser Treatment
When using natural and botanical ingredients after a facial laser treatment, it is essential to choose products that are gentle and non-irritating. Choose gentle and non-irritating ingredients that can help soothe and nourish your skin, reduce redness and swelling, and protect your skin from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Using the Gaby Antioxidant-Rich & Soothing Serum and the Aida Intensely Hydrating Face Cream are an excellent way to nourish your skin and getting it to quickly look its best!
]]>Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to get your beauty cabinet in order. It’s a chance to get rid of old products, declutter, and make room for new ones. But where do you start? Here are some tips to help you get started:
First things first, check the expiration dates on your products. Anything that’s past its expiration date should be tossed out immediately. Using expired products can lead to irritation, breakouts, and other skin issues. If you’re not sure when a product was opened, write the date on it with a marker so you can keep track.
Next, sort your products by category. This will make it easier to see what you have and identify duplicates. Group your products into categories like skincare, hair care, makeup, etc. If you have a lot of products in one category, consider breaking it down further. For example, you could group your skincare products by cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, and so on.
Once you’ve sorted your products, it’s time to get rid of anything you don’t use. If you haven’t used a product in the last 3-6 months, it’s time to let it go. Don’t hold onto things you don’t need or use. You can toss expired products or products that have gone bad, but for products that are still good, consider donating them. You can give unopened products to friends or family, or donate them to a women’s shelter or other charity.
While you’re decluttering, take the opportunity to clean your tools. Makeup brushes, sponges, and other tools should be washed regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. Use a gentle soap or brush cleaner and let them air dry. You’ll be amazed at how much better your makeup applies when you’re using clean tools.
Once you’ve decluttered and cleaned, it’s time to organize your products. Use dividers or small bins to keep your products organized and easy to find. Consider storing them by category, color, or frequency of use. You can use a rotating organizer to make it easier to access your products. If you have limited space, consider using a hanging organizer or a tiered shelf.
As you’re organizing, take a look at the packaging of your products. Are they eco-friendly? Look for products that are packaged in eco-friendly materials or that have refillable options. This can help reduce waste and make your beauty routine more sustainable.
Remember to make it fun! Spring cleaning your beauty cabinet can be both rewarding and fun! Consider it a new and refreshing beginning! By following these tips, you’ll be able to declutter, organize, and make room for the products you love and use (like the Uviña Power Bundle!). Plus, you’ll have a clean, organized space that will make your daily routine a little easier. Happy cleaning!
]]>If you find yourself prone to dry, red, irritated, itchy, or cracking skin, you’re not alone. Men and women alike struggle with this affliction, especially in the winter when the air gets colder and dryer (a harsh combo for sensitive skin!).
There's no question that redness and irritation is cumbersome and uncomfortable, and thankfully, there's an answer to kicking it to the curb! You can help soothe and reduce the redness and irritation on your skin with natural, minimal, and soothing skincare. Here’s what you need to know about skin irritation, the ingredients that will help provide relief, and which natural and organic skincare products to buy.
The first step in tackling your red, uncomfortable, and irritated skin is to understand skin irritation broadly and what causes it. Sometimes, skin irritation is chronic and can be a symptom of a condition, such as eczema. Other times, red or irritated skin could be the result of a sunburn or sun damage, as well as exposure to an irritant. An irritant could be an ingredient or chemical in a skincare product you’re using that doesn’t agree with your skin, a food that you’re allergic to, or a natural irritant like poison oak. Your skin irritation may also be a result of a medication you take that causes dryness, such as Accutane for acne. No matter what causes your redness or discomfort, it’s important to treat it with natural, healing skincare that will be gentle on your skin.
Choosing the right ingredients is key in finding the best skincare for sensitive skin. Obviously, you want to reduce redness and keep skin irritant-free, but the right natural skincare routine will also help level your skin tone, brighten, and give you a clear, youthful glow. Opt for ingredients that have cooling, soothing, and healing properties, like bisbolol, chamomile extract, cucumber extract, and jojoba. Each of these natural ingredients give your skin a blanket of hydration, help heal your moisture barrier, and gently reduce redness and discomfort. It’s best to avoid not only ingredients that you know don’t agree with your skin, but also to avoid harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients. Naturally-derived ingredients will help give your skin the best chance at healing.
If you’re looking for skincare products that pack a punch in terms of healing and redness reduction, you're at the right place! Here at Uviña Skin, we pride ourselves at being a botanical skincare brand with real life results. We use minimal skincare ingredients to give even sensitive skin the very best care.
Start with our Gaby Antioxidant-Rich and Soothing Serum, which contains all the ingredients above for a soothing, cooling effect. It also helps reduce puffiness and dark circles and improves your skin’s collagen production, so your skin looks awake and energized, even through late nights and not enough coffee.
You can finally say goodbye to red, irritated skin!
]]>If you’re looking to simplify your beauty and skin care routine as part of your vision for the new year or you just need some more simplicity in your life, a simple skin care routine is the way to go. While starting a new routine (even if it’s supposed to be simple) can sound daunting, it doesn’t need to be! Here are five easy ways to begin your simple skin care routine.
When starting a simple skin care routine, it’s important to start shifting your mindset when it comes to the way you view beauty and beauty products. Opt for a quality over quantity! Sure, a medicine cabinet filled with fancy skin care looks great on Instagram, but it may not be helping your skin. Try to invest in high-quality products that truly work for your skin so that you don’t waste your hard-earned time and money. A perfect example is the Uvina Power Bundle, a collection of high-quality skin care products that will help kickstart your simple skin care routine in 3 easy steps!
Don’t let perfection be the enemy of good when it comes to your skin. Although a natural, simple skin care routine can help your skin look healthier, it may not cure every imperfection. Remember, having a little skin texture or a few dark spots is completely normal. Don’t expect your skin care routine to make your skin look like an airbrushed Photoshop image! Letting go of this expectation will mean that your simple skin care routine will work better for you and won’t disappoint.
The next step is more tactile. Go through your beauty cabinet—or bag, or drawer—and take out everything that is expired, items you haven’t used in six months, or items that you already know don’t work for you. Removing these means you have more room for the good and you can easily reach for the stuff you already know you love.
Although not a skin care tip, this might be the most important! As part of your shift into a simple skin care routine (and minimalist beauty in general), try to spend some time away from the beauty world at large. Spend more time with your family and friends doing the hobbies and activities you love. The less you fuss over your skin or makeup routine, the better the effects of your routines will be. Trust us.
One last tip that’ll help you be successful on your journey towards a simple skin care routine is to think about where you can swap out your existing products for ones that are multi-purpose. Our Gaby Antioxidant-Rich & Soothing Serum not only hydrates and smoothes, but it also helps fight redness and puffiness! Also consider new ways to use the products you already love. Could your face cream be used to nourish your cuticles? Could you cut the Isabel Peppermint Facial Cleansing Bar in half and use one-half to cleanse your body? (Btw, this is great post-workout to prevent body acne!) Using one product in multiple ways not only simplifies your routine, but also saves you time and money!
As you begin your simple skin care routine, remember that less is often more.
]]>With a hectic schedule, it can be hard to find time to take care of your skin. But the benefits of taking time for self-care (and skincare) are unquestionable. Taking good care of your skin extends far beyond looking younger! The truth is you’ll feel healthier, happier, and more energized too, making it even more important for busy moms.
This simple and effective 3-step skincare routine makes skincare manageable, even if you already have a jam-packed schedule. So busy moms (and moms-to-be!) will see noticeable results in no time.Here's a quick guide to a simple skincare routine for busy moms who don't have time for a long, drawn-out skincare routine. So what are these steps? Let’s go over them!
When it comes to skincare, busy moms need a routine that is quick, effective, and easy to follow. This makes the Uviña Power Bundle the perfect solution for busy moms who want to take care of their skin without spending a lot of precious time (or money). Plus, our naturally-derived ingredients are gentle enough for everyday use and safe for pregnant and nursing women.
The Uviña Power Bundle… giving you everything your skin needs and nothing it doesn't.
Read how my journey as a new mom inspired the creation of Uviña Skin
Xo, Jelitsa
]]>If you struggle with dry skin, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or melasma, niacinamide is about to become your new best friend. Do you have sensitive skin? Well, you're in luck because this powerful, do-it-all skincare ingredient is as gentle as it is effective.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, known by its scientific name nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B-3. Vitamin B-3 is an essential nutrient, helping so many parts of your body function properly. Although it seems like word has just gotten out about Niacinamide, research continues to indicate that it can be a fierce warrior against skin conditions like acne, eczema, and hyperpigmentation.
What can Niacinamide help with?
Just about everything!
While eczema and acne are the subjects of recent niacinamide research, niacinamide has a host of skin benefits. Niacinamide is especially effective against severe acne conditions, like cystic and pustule acne, while also shown to minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles, making it a powerful skin care ingredient against the visual signs of aging. Niacinamide is also extremely beneficial in helping reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots that result from acne or sun damage. As a result, niacinamide can help skin look smoother, more even, and more youthful. As if that weren't enough, it also helps build up your skins lipid barrier, which protects it against dehydration and irritation. In a randomized clinical trial, niacinamide was also shown to improve solar elastosis, a frequent feature of melasma on skin.
Where can I find Niacinamide?
Now that you know about the possibilities with niacinamide, you probably want to get this amazing ingredient on your skin...and you're not wrong! The Aida Intensely Hydrating Face Cream is made with a streamlined formula that guarantees niacinamide remains the star of the show and has maximum impact on your skin.
The Aida Intensely Hydrating Face Cream is your one-stop-shop for dry, sensitive, and hyperpigmented skin. Aside from niacinamide, this cream contains super skincare sidekicks like Moringa butter and a fruit antioxidant blend. Moringa has been shown to provide the skin with 2x more hydration, resulting in a healthy, all-over glow. Fruit antioxidants are beneficial against signs of aging and damage from free-radicals and pollution. The result? A powerful, creamy blend of ingredients that gives your skin glow, balance, hydration, and evenness each and every night.
]]>If you’re looking to update your skincare routine this year, you may want to consider paring down your products and steps in order to get the best possible results. These days, we are inundated with advertisements and influencers who are encouraging us to purchase the “latest and greatest” in skincare.
However, keeping it simple can actually be the most beneficial for your skin. When you introduce tons of products and steps into your skincare routine, the odds go up that you could over-exfoliate your skin, over-stimulate it, or that you could have a negative reaction. For these reasons and more, simplified skin care is the way to go. There are many benefits of simplified skincare routine. Here are some of the reasons that a simplified skincare routine is best for your skin and complexion.
If you walk into any dermatologist’s office and ask them what kind of routine they recommend, they will likely recommend a simple routine consisting of a cleanser, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. That’s it! Just a few steps to help you get glowing, clear skin. They also recommend avoiding harmful ingredients or fragrances, so you should keep your routine simple, as well as simplify the products IN that routine.
If you have fewer products in your daily skincare routine, there is less likelihood of your skin reacting negatively or becoming irritated by an ingredient in one of your products. Plus, if your routine is simple from the start, you can quickly identify irritants and remove them from your routine.
A simple routine is a routine that is easy to remember and easy to stick with! One of the top considerations to keep in mind when you’re trying to improve your skin is that consistency is key. The best routine is a routine you’ll actually do each morning and each night. So, a simple, natural cleanser coupled with a serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen in the daytime is all you need. And, even by itself, this routine could make a huge difference in your skin.
One of the biggest benefits of simplifying your skincare routine is that it saves you money and it saves you time! Going through the 10-step skincare routine may sound like a self-care scene out of a movie, but if you lead a busy life, the last thing you want to do at night is spend 45 minutes in front of your bathroom sink before you can finally crawl into bed. Having fewer skincare steps also means less money spent on products your skin doesn’t even need!
If you make one skincare move this year, make it a move toward simplicity. Inundating your skin with more products than it actually needs is a waste of time, money, and doesn’t even give your skin the benefits that you may be hoping for. Simple, natural skincare is the best path to clear, glowing skin.
]]>Intentional living is truly about designing a way of living that encourages us to set clear boundaries and understand what serves our heart, mind, and bodies. It allows us to align our days in a way that allows us to achieve these priorities.
I've been on this journey for years now and trust me, once you start, there's no turning back. Here are 5 tips to help you begin your intentional journey:
1. Assess your spending habits
We live in a consumer culture and society will often make you believe that you need bigger and more. Learning how to be intentional with your purchases sets the groundwork for designing a lifestyle that is purposeful and simple. Some questions to ask prior to entering your credit card number: How will I use this? / Is this something I need or something I want? / Do I already have something like this?
2. Re-evaluate your relationships
This is a tough one, but probably the most important. Are your relationships positive? Are your conversations supportive, impactful? How do you feel after spending time with them?
Your inner circle plays a vital role in helping you achieve success, regardless of the project. Make sure that yours is serving you well.
3. Take back control of your time
Is your calendar packed for months out? Do you often find yourself wishing plans fall through? Living intentionally requires that you allow yourself to have moments in your life that are spontaneous and serve you in the moment. It doesn’t need to be grand. It can be simple. Like giving yourself the space to go for a long walk or watch a movie simply because your heart/mind felt like it that morning.
When you’re constantly being asked to make plans you’re not excited about, it’s important to learn to say no. Sound too harsh? How about this: “That sounds great. I’m not going to commit just yet, but let’s touch base that day to see if that still works.”
4. Don’t fall victim to the algorithms
Unsubscribe from media accounts that aren’t helping you reach your goal of living intentionally. Accounts, articles, and comments that don’t make you feel enlightened or inspired will only set you back on your journey.
5. Develop healthy habits
Health is wealth, I’m sure you’ve heard that before. But it’s worth hearing it again. Be intentional with your exercise, whether it’s a HIIT class or regular walks with your pup. Give focus to the food you feed yourself and your family. Honoring your body, how you use it, and what you put in/on it will make all the difference. As a result, you’ll feel better, increase your energy, and be all the happier for it.
The busier you are, the more intentional you need to be. With time, space, people, and energy. Start now, start small. We promise, it'll be worht it.
]]>Want to get strong and fit? Easy. Exercise.
Want to improve your skin health?... Wait, uh...exercise?
YES!
Exercise is just as beneficial for your skin as it is for your overall fitness goals. Here are the top three ways exercise keeps your skin clear and glowing!
Promotes increased blood flow
Exercise helps promote increased blood flow, which supplies essential nutrients to the skin (and removes waste products and free radicals from skin cells). This has a huge impact in keeping your skin radiant and healthy.
Helps flush out toxins
Exercise makes you sweat, which increases the removal of toxins through perspiration.
Decreases stress levels
“Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands, they just don't.” - Elle Woods
And these endorphins can also indirectly help calm your skin! It’s been shown that exercise helps buffer the effects of stress and reduce the level of stress hormones. In turn, this can help calm stress-related skin conditions like acne and eczema.
There are so many benefits to exercise and improved skin is just the tip of the iceberg! And remember, exercise should be fun and looks different for everyone. Walk, run, dance, swim… just start. And don’t forget to wash your face immediately after with our oil and acne-fighting Isabel Peppermint bar.
xoxo, J
]]>1. Chamomile: Synonymous with calm, chamomile has relaxing and sedative properties. A small study found that long-term use of chamomile has been shown to reduce moderate-to-severe symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (one of the most common anxiety disorders).
2. Lavender: A study showed that drinking lavender herbal tea can reduce depression and anxiety; suggesting it be used as a complementary method in helping reduce anxiety and depression.
3. Peppermint: The smell alone may help reduce feelings of frustration, anxiety, and fatigue. (Make sure to start your day with the Isabel facial cleansing bar!) A study found the effects of Peppermint herbs to be plentiful! Peppermint is also known to help relax your muscles, making it a perfect drink right before bedtime.
4. Ashwagandha: Known to help reduce anxiety and stress, drinking Ashwagandha tea may be an easy and effective way to improve your health and quality of life. A 2012 study found that Ashwagandha significantly reduced stress levels over a 2-month span.
5. Lemon Balm: A 2011 study found that lemon balm extract was shown to help with mild to moderate anxiety and insomnia. It appears to work by boosting GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces stress.
Tip: Try to find teas that do not include artificial ingredients, such as added flavors and/or colors. Our favorite brand is Traditional Medicinals.
Let us know if you tried any of these teas and if you found them helpful. Wishing you so much calm.
xoxo, J
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be medical advice or replace treatment plans instituted by a medical professional.
]]>This is exactly why we love smoothies! They can be made in 10 minutes or less, are full of vitamins and minerals, can help detoxify your body, and keep you cool in the summer heat! Transform your skin with these 5 easy and delicious smoothie recipes. Packed with nutrients, they'll give you the healthy, glowing skin you deserve! Here are 5 skin-boosting smoothie recipes we found for you:
https://aseasyasapplepie.com/blueberry-matcha-smoothie/
This smoothie is full of so much goodness! Blueberries, bananas, matcha, oatmeal, and greens work together to provide a delicious glass of fiber and nutritious vitamins that play an essential role in improving skin texture and firmness.
http://www.thingsimadetoday.com/2015/07/21/green-on-green-on-green-smoothie/
Cucumbers, pears, kale, celery, and fruit juices make this smoothie a go-to healthy option packed with skin-loving ingredients. Pear is full of vitamin A and other nutrients, cucumber is really hydrating and helps combat premature aging, and celery is known to promote gut health, which in turn helps brighten skin.
https://dishingupthedirt.com/recipes/lemon-thyme-blueberry-smoothie/
Thyme is such a unique and beneficial smoothie ingredient. It’s known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a perfect complement to the skin brightening nutrients and minerals provided by the lemon and blueberries. Added bonus: It also has chia seeds, which are incredible for strengthening the skin barrier and helping your skin glow!
https://lifemadesimplebakes.com/glowing-skin-smoothie/
Berries + berries + more berries make for a smoothie packed with antioxidants that help reduce the signs of aging, protect from UV damage, and help the skin stay healthy and rejuvenated. It also contains flax seeds, which has fatty acids that help in keeping the skin moisturized, tight, and smooth.
https://www.thecookierookie.com/glowing-skin-smoothie/
Full of mangoes, carrots, strawberries, and avocados, this smoothie is packed with numerous vitamins that help promote collagen production, have powerful anti-aging properties, and is rich in fatty acids!
And voila! With this delicious list, you’re sure to find a quick and easy smoothie to easily and quickly provide your skin (and body) a nutritious boost. Now for the final touch, grab your Uviña Skin favorite (or all three) by clicking here!
]]>But don’t worry! Our Gaby serum is your secret summer weapon to keep your skin hydrated and neutralize the free radicals that can wreak havoc on your skin.
(*Hint: Free radicals are unstable atoms that damage cells and are often introduced by outside sources, like tobacco smoke, sun exposure, toxins, or pollutants.)
How the Gaby will help you
During the summer, your skin comes face-to-face with more free radicals than usual and can result in sun damage – like hyperpigmentation and sunburns. Your skin needs antioxidants to neutralize these free radicals and make them harmless. Also, if your skin is already suffering from a sunburn, you need to incorporate hydrating and calming ingredients to soothe your skin and clear your complexion.
Jojoba Oil
If sunburnt, jojoba oil can help speed up the healing process due to its wound-healing properties, vitamin E, and antioxidants. It also soothes redness and brings moisture back into dry skin. Not only does it hydrate, it also helps protect your skin barrier against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors and prevents it from losing additional moisture.
Cucumber
It’s an anti-inflammatory, soothes redness and irritation, and reduces puffiness.
Chamomile
May help to soothe irritated skin, acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage, and inhibits the enzymes in skin that are responsible for collagen breakdown.
Antioxidants
The Gaby is loaded with fruit and plant-based antioxidants like acai, pomegranate, green tea, and so many more. that help protect your skin from free radicals caused by UV exposure and radiation. Additionally, these ingredients are loaded with vitamin C, which brightens your complexion by fading pigmentation and smoothing your skin’s texture.
If you’re looking to soothe your skin after that much needed vacation, you want to be using our Gaby serum!
Are you ready to get your skin summer-ready? Check out our Gaby Antioxidant-Rich & Soothing Serum and our other skincare products here.
]]>Causes of Acne
There can be many reasons why you may be experiencing acne, but the main causes of acne are likely to be:
The Problem
When trying to clear, fight, or prevent acne, many mainstream facial cleansing products include ingredients that may seriously dehydrate your skin and in turn cause even more irritation. I mean, hellooo...isn’t this what we’re trying to fix? And when trying to find more naturally focused face wash options for acne, you may find additional challenges.
Natural, Plant-Based Solution
Enter the Isabel. A facial cleansing bar made with plant-based oils and infused with both peppermint oil and peppermint leaves.
Peppermint oil, which comes from the leaves of the peppermint plant, has natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent option for cleansing the skin. Not only does it clear the skin and unclog pores, it also offers a cooling effect that can soothe irritated and inflamed skin caused by acne.
And unlike many other soap bars, the Isabel does not dry out your face! The plant-based oils in the bar help create a creamy lather that leaves your skin feeling refreshed and moisturized while thoroughly getting rid of dirt, grime, sweat, and excess oil.
At under $15 and known to last for months (with the right soap care), the Isabel is the best face wash for fighting current and future breakouts.
*Caution- pure, undiluted peppermint oil should not be applied directly to the skin, as it is potent and can be irritating.
]]>Due to the environmental impacts caused by its sourcing in Southeast Asia, Palm Oil has become quite a controversial ingredient. However, the problem is the way it’s being sourced and not the Palm Oil itself. Let’s take a look at why it’s beneficial and how we at Uviña are ensuring that we are sourcing ethical, organic, and sustainable palm oil.
Discover the benefits of palm oil for skin. From hydration to anti-aging, learn how this natural ingredient can transform your skincare routine.
Palm Oil:
Boycotting is not the answer
Did you know that you can grow 5-10x more Palm Oil on an acre of land when compared to alternative oils?
In a statement to The Jakarta Post, Kiki Taufik, head of Greenpeace Indonesia Global Forest Campaign, said: “To be clear, Greenpeace is not anti-palm oil, it is anti-deforestation” and “If palm oil is banned, companies or governments might turn to other crops, which might replace palm oil’s role in deforestation [or even worsen it] in Indonesia and elsewhere. We support palm oil from producers or palm oil companies that aren’t destroying forests or exploiting people, and there’s plenty of palm oil that fills the bill”. Read it here.
Where does your Palm oil come from?
It’s important to know where and how palm oil is produced. Our palm oil is 100% organic, deforestation-free, wildlife-friendly, and sustainably sourced from Ecuador. It's grown on previously degraded land that has been restored and owned by independent farmers, allowing for sustainable income. Our supplier (Natural Habitat) is Fair for Life certified & Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certified. These certified suppliers empower farmers and communities.
I had the opportunity to meet and talk to Evelyn & Camila, two Ecuadorian women who are now taking over the farms that have been in their families for decades. We discussed organic farming, what this means for their families, and navigating business ownership as women.
Uviña Skin is proud to offer The Isabel cleansing bar in alliance with these women and certified suppliers. Sustainable and ethical palm oil IS possible ❤️
Learn more about our supplier by visiting Palm Done Right.
]]>Glass Containers: Recycle, recycle, recycle! We found out that most plastics can only be recycled a limited number of times (if at all), so we knew that we needed to be plastic-free. After much research, we found that glass can be recycled indefinitely without losing its quality. To make the deal even sweeter, amber glass is best for serums and creams that have antioxidants, as it helps limit light exposure. Win win!
Screen-printing: Did you know that labels can cause the container you tossed into the recycling bin to NOT be recycled? If your container has an adhesive label, it may be removed from the recycling process because the adhesive may cause damage to the recycling equipment. To make this process as easy as possible, we decided to not take any chances and chose to eliminate the label.
No inner shrink-wrapping/foils: All of our products are made and bottled in a professional facility that follows Good Manufacturing Practices. This includes following all FDA sanitary practices and testing all batches for contamination before being bottled and capped. As a result, inner-sealing of our containers felt unnecessary. So we decided to nix the thousands of small plastic seals that would end up in our landfills.
The Isabel facial cleansing bar: Requires no packaging, is lightweight, and easy to travel with. It also uses...
Sustainably sourced palm oil: The Isabel facial cleansing bar is made with ethically and sustainably-sourced palm oil that is 100% organic, deforestation-free, wildlife friendly, and fair & social. Aside from the amazing benefits, palm oil is the highest yielding vegetable oil on Earth, producing 5-10 times more oil per acre than any other oil.
Additionally, PDR partners with the farmer, provides them fair wages, and provides resources that help strengthen and grow the communites (implementation of programs that improve access to water, medical care, and other resources). Read the suppliers promise HERE.
Boxes: Our product boxes are recyclable, printed with vegetable-based ink, and made with 50% recycled content (30% which is post-consumer content!).
Local partnerships: We are fortunate to have found amazing partnerships with local companies. This decreases our need for heavy, long-haul shipments during product development and restocking, which decreases our carbon footprint.
Cruelty-free: Being a cruelty-free brand helps save animals, but it also helps save our environment! Labs that conduct animal testing create and release large amounts of hazardous waste per year. As a Leaping Bunny Certified brand, we have committed to never participate in these types of activities.
As a self-funded, small business, it took creativity and determination to find the balance between aesthetics, sustainability, and affordability. Understanding that this is a start, we continue to look for ways to enhance our sustainability practices. We want to be as good to ‘Mama Earth’ as possible.
Wearing a face mask for most of the day is a skin stressor that we were not ready for! As these masks are not going away anytime soon, here are the top three ways to prevent irritation and breakouts due to mask-wearing.
1. Wash, wash, wash!
Most healthcare organizations recommend washing your mask after each use with a fragrance-free laundry detergent. This helps remove oils and shed skin cells that collect inside of the mask (yuck), which can lead to skin irritation.
Make sure you are cleansing your face daily. Twice daily cleansing may be recommended, but be careful not to use a cleanser that can cause dehydration because…
2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
Applying a generous layer of moisturizer will help combat dryness and nourish your skin. Thankfully our Aida Intensely Hydrating moisturizer has moringa butter (which has been shown to be significantly more hydrating than shea butter) and hyaluronic acid, which both contribute significantly towards your skin moisture levels.
3. Cotton, cotton, cotton.
This year has given us A LOT to deal with, but let’s not let it wreak havoc on our skin. Now go grab your mask and make big things happen...but not without first making sure to grab our Isabel Peppermint Facial bar for cleansing without dehydration and our Aida Intensely Hydrating Moisturizer for that added layer of moisturizing protection.
*Please wear your mask when not able to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet.
Well, it’s actually quite easy to understand once you realize that beauty products have been really dirty for a looooooong time.
Let’s start from the beginning.
Quite surprising to most, beauty products are NOT regulated by the FDA and do not need to have approval before hitting the market. (Shocked yet? Oh wait, there’s more.)
As a result, many products are filled with cheap, dirty, toxic ingredients known to cause cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive/nervous/digestion issues, skin irritation, and so much more. (And yes, this is legal.)
Let’s get into some of the common offenders you may find in facial skin care:
Parabens: Parabens are a group of preservatives. Although preservatives are essential for preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin care products, this group is known to cause reproductive harm, endocrine disruption, cancer, and skin irritation.
Commonly labeled as methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben and butylparaben.
BHA/BHT: These are synthetic antioxidants that are also used to preserve shelf life (preservatives). Unfortunately, they are also known to cause cancer, disrupt hormones, and cause liver damage.
Commonly labeled as BHA-butylated hydroxyanisole and BHT-butylated hydroxytoluene.
Petrolatum: Petrolatum, derived from petroleum, is a clear, odorless oil commonly found in cosmetics. Now, my biggest gripe with petrolatum is not that it’s dangerous. It’s that it’s a lazy “filler” ingredient. Although hydrating, it is occlusive, meaning that it creates a barrier over your skin, potentially clogging your pores. Add the fact that it has no anti-inflammatory, soothing, or antioxidant properties and you can’t help but wonder what purpose it’s serving in your face care products.
Commonly labeled as Mineral Oil, Petroleum jelly
Fragrances: Did you know that ‘fragrances’ are considered a trade secret and do not need to disclose what chemicals are used to create them? Sadly, the chemicals commonly used are known to be irritants, allergens, and hormone disruptors. I love a wonderful scent as much as the next person, but not if it has to be like this! My recommendation is to look for products that use fruit/floral extracts and/or essential oils.
Commonly labeled as Parfum(e), fragrance
Phthalates: This product is not allowed in Europe, but commonly found in the United States. These products help skin care products penetrate the skin and have been known to cause reproductive issues in both men and women, and are very dangerous for children.
Commonly labeled as BPA- Bisphenol, DBP- dibutyl phthalate, DEP- diethyl phthalate
Siloxanes: Commonly found in moisturizers, this product helps smooth the product to assist with application. It has been suspected of harming the reproductive system and causing infertility.
Commonly labeled as Cyclotetrasiloxane, Cyclomethicone, Cyclohexasiloxaneand, and Cyclopentasiloxane
PEGs: Commonly used to thicken moisturizers, this ingredient is commonly found in facial moisturizers and can cause irritation and system toxicity.
Commonly labeled as PEG, Ceteareth, Polyethylene, Polyethylene Glycol, and Polyoxyethylene
Phenoxyethanol: Another problematic preservative, phenoxyethanol is easily absorbed through the skin and is known to irritate the central nervous system (brain, nerves), skin, eyes, and lungs. Prolonged exposure has been linked to organ damage.
Commonly labeled by the same name
Looking and feeling your best shouldn’t cost you your health. Uviña Skin has been founded on the belief that beautiful, glowing skin can be achieved without using these common and harmful ingredients. All of our clean ingredients were intentionally chosen with your well-being in mind. We’re all in this together.