Arianrhod Aromatics

How to determine what skin type you have and take care of it

July 17, 2023April 6, 2023 by Matt

Does your skin confuse you? Does it seem like some days it’s oily and other days it’s dry? Skin can seem like it is all over the place. Especially as weather changes can impact how our skin behaves each season, and as we age, our skin can change too. So, how do you determine what skin type you have right now and what key things should you be paying attention to with your skin? Let’s find out!

Otherwise, if you just want to know your skin type, take our skin type quiz to find out!

What are the different skin types?

There are five types of skin. These types are used to describe three key attributes of your skin: Oilyness, hydration and sensitivity. So what are these skin types?

Normal – Middle of the road, a balance between oily, dry and not sensitive.
Oily – Your skin has an above-average level of oil present.
Dry – Your skin has a below-average level of water present.
Combination – Some of your skin is dry and some is oily.
Sensitive – Your skin might not be particularly oily or dry, but it is sensitive to what you put on it.

Normal skin

Normal skin is not too oily and not too dry. The sebum production of your skin is balanced, producing just enough to keep your skin hydrated.

How to identify normal skin

Low pore visibility
Few imperfections
Not noticeably sensitive
Often described as a glowing complexion

How to take care of your normal skin

Normal skin doesn’t usually require any special care, but it is still important to look after it.

Avoid conditions that can contribute to dry or oily skin
Protect your skin from the sun and apply after sun lotion if you get sun burned
Take care when using cleaning products and don’t overuse scented products, normal skin can become sensitive skin from overexposure
Use a natural moisturiser and look for natural products in the rest of your skincare and haircare routine

Oily skin

Oily skin is caused by excessive sebum production and tends to change throughout the year and can become particularly more prominent during hot and humid weather when you are sweating more frequently.

How to identify oily skin

Large pores that are easily visible
A complexion that is shiny
Skin may have an oily residue on it
Frequent blackheads, pimples and other related skin blemishes

Factors that can contribute to oily skin

Genetics that contribute to excess sebum production
Stress
Puberty
Hormonal imbalance
Heat
Humidity

How to take care of your oily skin

Wash your skin after you have sweated
Try not to wash your skin more than twice per day
Use gentle cleansers designed for oily skin
Don’t scrub your skin
Exfoliate very gently as excess oil can trap dead skin and contribute to acne
As tempting as it is, try to avoid squeezing your pimples.
Use a light, oil-free moisturiser designed for oily skin to help keep your skin hydrated while signalling to your skin that it doesn’t need to produce as much sebum.
Look for skincare products that are labelled as non-clogging. The technical term is “noncomedogenic” which means that it won’t block your pores.

Dry skin

Dry skin is the result of a lack of sebum and can be caused by a lot of environmental factors including the wind and climate control systems, it also tends to be quite irritating.

How to identify dry skin

Very small, almost invisible pores
A dull complexion that has a rough appearance
The skin is often covered in a layer of flaky dead skin cells
Poor skin elasticity
Patchy red spots
Skin lines tend to be more prominent
Skin cracks and peels easily
Tends to become quite itchy
If it is extremely dry it can become rough and scaly both visibly and also to touch

Factors that can contribute to dry skin

Genetics that contribute to lower sebum production
Medications
Soaps, cosmetics, cleansers and hand sanitisers
Exposure to hot water for extended periods, eg long, hot baths
Aging
Hormonal changes
The weather, especially the sun, wind and colder temperatures
UV radiation
Climate control systems, especially heating

How to take care of your dry skin

Use mild soaps and cleansers
Use mildy-fragranced soaps that derive their fragrance from an essential oil – sandalwood, geranium, and lavender are all good essential oils for dry skin
Choose hand sanitisers that contain ingredients to help retain moisture rather than dry it out.
Don’t scrub your skin when washing it
Don’t scrub your skin when drying it
Make hot baths and showers as short as possible and don’t have more than one a day unless essential
Keep your skin hydrated
Use a gentle body butter or moisturising lotion immediately after washing
If your dry skin is aging related, switch to washes and moisturisers that have been formulated to assist aging skin, like our Sativa Restore Moisturiser
Use a humidifier, especially during cold weather when indoor heating is operating
Keep indoor heating as low as possible
Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals and use gloves when you are doing the dishes or using any cleaning products
For men, consider natural shaving lotion and aftershave that lock in moisture rather than drying your face out.

Combination skin

As the name suggests, combination skin can be oily in some places, dry in others and perhaps normal in others. The T-zone in your face is often used as an example of this where the T itself, your forehead, nose and chin get oily, but the rest of your face is dry. This isn’t always the case, but it is the most common way that combination skin manifests.

It’s also worth noting that combination skin may occur in larger zones around your body and not just your face. For example, your face might be oily but your have dry skin on your arms and legs.

How to identify combination skin

Pores in oily areas look larger than normal
Shiny skin in some places and dull skin in others
Blackheads in some places, but dry irritations in others

Factors that can contribute to combination skin

The same factors that contribute to dry and oily skin also contribute to combination skin. Your skin just happens to be more prone to those factors in some places than others. This can make looking after it a little tricky since you don’t want to add more moisture to oily areas but you do want to hydrate those dry spots!

How to take care of your combination skin

Care is much the same as oily and dry skin, but more topical. Unfortunately, that makes things a little trickier since you should not use the same products all over.

Don’t use heavy moisturisers on areas that are already oily
Use lighter, oil-free moisturisers on the oily areas of your skin, like our Sativa Clear Moisturiser for Oily Skin
Exfoliate gently to help clear clogged pores and remove dead skin
Avoid fragrances, particularly on the dry areas of your skin
Use soaps that help to lock in moisture rather than dry the skin out.

Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin can be tough to manage. It will often get irritated at the slightest thing, including food. Most people with sensitive skin will be able to identify consistent things that trigger their skin.

How to identify sensitive skin

Redness with or without dryness
Itching with or without dry, flaky skin
Burning sensations
Dryness

Factors that can contribute to sensitive skin

Scented products
Harsh chemicals
Over-exfoliation
Excessive scrubbing

How to take care of your sensitive skin

Use washes that are formulated for sensitive skin, like our Hemp Body Wash for Sensitive Skin.
Use moisturisers and body butter with minimal ingredients that are intended for skin that is sensitive, like our Zero Tolerance Cream
Avoid synthetic ingredients in your skincare – choose natural products
Avoid scented products, even if the scent is natural
Avoid scents and strong chemicals in other products too, like shampoos and conditioners
Look out for strong foods that might trigger your skin
Identify what triggers your skin
Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals and use gloves when you are doing the dishes or using any cleaning products.
For men, as with dry skin, consider natural shaving lotion and aftershave that lock in moisture rather than drying your face out and that don’t have harsh chemicals in them.

So, have you figured out what skin type you are?

Do you know what skin type you have yet? Oily? Dry? Normal skin perhaps? Or do you have combination skin? Maybe your skin is sensitive? If you aren’t sure, take our handy skin type quiz to help you identify what skin type you have.

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Gift Ideas: All-Natural Skincare Products

March 24, 2023March 9, 2023 by Matt

What gift is perfect for a special someone who is health-conscious, prefers all-natural solutions, and loves to support small businesses? Handcrafted, all-natural skincare products are just the thoughtful kind of gift for that someone you want to spoil—even if that someone is yourself.

The gift ideas in this list include our very best organic skincare products. These items are affordable, effective, and completely all-natural. This is perfect for people with sensitive skin, as well as those wanting to break free from the chemical-laden trappings of modern cosmetics and skincare products.

Generally, skincare products can be expensive, especially when you’re going synthetic-free. That’s why we strive to offer our product at a price everyone can afford, and we give you the list of ingredients so that you always know what your lucky gift recipient will receive. Watch how that special person in your life glows when you give them these all-natural gift ideas.

Body Butters

Body butters are always popular organic gift ideas. They can soften the skin, replenish dry and damaged skin, and treat it with antioxidants and essential oils. Your skin will feel better than ever with these incredibly smooth skincare formulas, handcrafted with the perfect blend of cocoa, shea, and mango butter to create a silky healing touch.

Each all-natural skincare product is infused with cold-pressed rice bran oil, which lends the butter its rich, therapeutic properties. The antioxidants in the oil, not to mention the nutrients in the main ingredients, soak into your skin without leaving behind an oily residue. This means our body butters work wonders for all skin types.

Vegan-friendly and designed to use only the best all-natural ingredients, body butters in different scents are versatile and skin-pleasing cosmetic gifts for anyone in your life.

Coconut

Created with coconut for its lush and relaxing scent, coconut body butter is a can’t-miss gift for the coconut fan in your life. The coconut adds a pleasing aroma and richness to the butter itself, leaving the skin feeling better than new.

Lime and Coconut

Adding the lovely citrus fragrance of lime to the coconut body butter creates a product that tinges the soft, fruity smell of coconut with the fresh and intense crispness of lime. The result is a body butter that will soothe your skin while sweeping you up on a tropical adventure. It’s ideal for that friend or loved one who needs a chance to drift away from the stresses of life into their own personal paradise.

Mango and Coconut

The floral and slightly-citric tang of mango meets the soft aroma of coconut in this body butter. The result is this richly textured skincare product that softens and sweetens your skin in equal measure. Melt away into the blessed feeling of mango and coconut on your skin.

Vanilla

Loved the world over for its incomparably sweet scent, vanilla lends this body butter a creamy and satisfying moistness as it settles into your skin to heal and refresh it.

Body Lotion

Body lotions hydrate and seal moisture into your skin, but they also protect it with antifungal and antibacterial properties. Made with cold-pressed Australian hemp seed oil to promote skin regeneration, powered by rich Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, the Mari-J-Majik Body Lotion is like an entire health spa for your skin. This lotion shows your special someone just how much you care: it is infused with clear quartz, rose quartz, and amethyst to enliven the healing vibrations of the purified water used in the lotion.

Simply put: this lotion is the ideal gift to give to a health-conscious, natural-minded loved one for their skincare.

If your favourite person loves to be out in the sun but doesn’t love what it does to skin, try the Sativa Nourish After Sun Body Lotion. The nourishing oils and silk amino acids combined with the aloe and cucumber lotion soothes and restores skin damaged by the sun’s rays. It smells amazing and feels even better.

Shaving Lotion

Most shaving lotions use harsh chemicals that don’t do your skin any favours. With Mari-J-Majik Shaving Lotion, you can replenish your damaged skin even as you shave it, leaving it softer and smoother with every shave.

Moisturisers and Balms

Sativa Lush whipped butter is the ultimate moisturising and anti-aging cream for your skin. Combining the renewing power of silkworm-friendly amino acids with essential oils, extracts, and fragrances, it’s the most decadent your skin will ever feel—great for the person in your life who deserves a little royal treatment!

When it comes to dry, cracked skin on your hands and feet, moisturisers are a game-changer. This blend of oils, extracts, and silver colloid fades age spots, penetrates cracked skin with deep moisturising, and soothes the pain with pure healing essence.

Giving All-Natural Smiles

Any of the all-natural skincare products on this list will bring happiness—and health!—to your loved one’s skin. If you can’t decide on just one, or you want to give the gift of discovering new restorative skin health options, try giving a gift card.

Whatever synthetic-free skincare option you choose, you’ll feel better knowing your special someone’s smile is all-natural!

Ceteareth Alcohol (Ceteareth-20) In Skincare: Learn More

January 31, 2023January 5, 2023 by Matt

If you’ve ever taken a look at the back of your shampoo and conditioner bottles or a moisturiser ingredients list, you may have come across ceteareth-20. You probably have not encountered this word in everyday conversation, but it’s a common and safe ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products.

Cetearyl alcohol for the skin is unlike other alcohols you would find on the shelf of a bar, as most alcohols dry out the skin. It is a fatty and non-irritating alcohol mixed together in skincare products to thicken the formula. We’ll go over more about this ingredient found in many skincare products and some of its benefits as well so that you can be sure that you’re making an informed decision about what personal care products you use.

What Is Ceteareth Alcohol?

Ceteareth-20 is a common ingredient in many cosmetic products as it fortunately doesn’t irritate the skin. Ceteareth-20 is made from cetearyl alcohol, which is a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols (natural fatty acids from coconut oils and ethylene oxide).

It can be used as a cleansing agent or to thicken and enhance a product’s formula. It is also used in creams to stop the separation of liquid and oils; this is known as an emulsifier.

What Are They Used In?

Ceteareth alcohol is used in many products as an emulsifier or to thicken and stabilise formulas. You can find this ingredient in many different cosmetic brands’ products. Common cosmetic products include:

Sunscreen
Shampoo
Conditioner
Skin lotions
Skin creams
Moisturisers
Hair removal creams
Hair mousse
Hair gels
Hair dyes

What Are the Benefits of Ceteareth Alcohol?

Ceteareth alcohol is safe and non-toxic to use on your skin and hair. The white, odourless compound can be mixed with natural and synthetic ingredients. It’s an essential emulsifier in many cream products, like this night moisturiser lotion, but it also has many benefits to the hair and skin.

Smoothes and Softens

It can help to soften the hair and skin when used in products thanks to its emollient properties. Since it’s a fatty alcohol, it is actually very moisturising. This benefit is a big contrast to other alcohols, which are not recommended to be used on the skin or hair because they tend to dry out or irritate the skin. If you are looking for a nourishing body cream, cetearyl alcohol in this coconut and mango body butter utilises fatty acids to moisturise skin.

Acts as a Surfactant

A surfactant works to lower the surface tension between liquids or liquid-solid, which allows them to be mixed together. An example of this is water and grime. It’s used in shampoos, conditioners, face cleansers, and body washes as a cleansing agent.
Ceteareth alcohol is a common ingredient in many products, though many people don’t know its purpose in cosmetic products. Understanding the ingredients in the products you use on your hair and skin is important. If you’re interested in using healthy and natural ingredients, we are happy to go over all the details and benefits of the ingredients we use in our products. We feel it’s essential to know what ingredients you are using in order to pick out skin care products that actually work for your needs. If you’d like to learn more about the ingredients in our natural skin care treatments, take a look at the full list of ingredients.

Tamanu Oil (Calophyllum Inophyllum): Skincare Benefits

January 31, 2023January 5, 2023 by Matt

If you’re new to learning about natural skin care ingredients, you may not know about tamanu oil. While perhaps not a household name, this oil packs a lot of benefits to your skin when applied as a topical treatment. With its extensive healing properties and antibacterial qualities, it can be used in a wide variety of different products to treat skin issues.

If you’re looking for products that can help reduce acne, heal scars, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, or provide protection against UV rays, then you might benefit from using tamanu oil. We’ll go over the top benefits of tamanu oil, plus products that incorporate this ingredient to treat various skin conditions.

What Is Tamanu Oil?

Tamanu oil, also known by the name Calophyllum inophyllum, is made from the seeds of the tamanu tree, which have been pressed to become a fatty nut oil. This tree is native to southeast Asia and has long been known for its use in skincare. Its many benefits stem from antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and anti-neuralgic properties. However, the oil can only be used topically, as it is toxic when ingested.

Fights Germs

The oil has antibacterial properties and fights against acne caused by bacteria. If you are in need of a treatment that can work against this type of acne, then using a product with tamanu oil may help your issue. This facial moisturiser is perfect for those with oily and acne-prone skin.

Heals Skin

The ability to help heal skin is just one of many tamanu oil skin benefits. It might be able to help heal wounds and scars because of increased collagen production and skin cell growth. Its improvement in collagen production, as well as elasticity, also helps with ageing skin-related issues like lines and wrinkles. This scar diminishing product will work to heal your skin to heal and regenerate healthy tissue.

Improves the Appearance of Skin
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, tamanu oil may help in the treatment of certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. The oil can also be used to help with the fading of stretch marks due to its moisturising, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Pain Relief

With its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, the oil can be used in topical pain relief products. From joint pain issues, sprains, pulled muscles, and sciatica, products with tamanu oil may be beneficial. This joint relief lotion is great to apply to the skin to help deal with pain.
Tamanu oil is a natural ingredient in many skincare products due to its many benefits. Though it isn’t a fix-all ingredient to cure skin problems, it does have many benefits for the skin. If you are interested in any of the products mentioned above, learn more about other ingredients in the products.

Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Hibiscus Rosella): Skincare Benefits

January 31, 2023January 5, 2023 by Matt

When you think of hibiscus, the images of colourful flowers or a cup of sweetly tart-tasting tea might pop into your head. While hibiscus flowers look beautiful in a garden, they also have a ton of benefits for your skin. Hibiscus sabdariffa is rich in vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants, making it an important ingredient in your skincare products. Adding this ingredient to your daily skincare routine can keep your skin looking healthy, fresh, and glowing. If you’re struggling to figure out the right skincare routine for you, consider how the wide array of hibiscus healing properties can benefit your skin. We’ll go over some of the top hibiscus skin benefits and popular products that utilise this ingredient.

What is Hibiscus Sabdariffa?

Hibiscus sabdariffa, or Rosella as it’s commonly known in Australia, is a species of Hibiscus thought to be native to West Africa. The plant is a perennial or annual herb, growing up to eight feet tall.

Anti-Aging Properties

Thanks to its high amounts of antioxidants, hibiscus has healing properties that can help your skin cells recover from damage. The antioxidants can help prevent collagen and elastin breakdown, which leads to fine lines and saggy skin. Also, due to the rich mix of vitamins C and E, it actually boosts collagen production so skin can appear youthful and fresh. This anti-ageing moisturiser helps to tighten the skin, protect it from damage, and retain moisture.

Eases Inflammation

Rosella hibiscus has a high level of antioxidants that include Vitamin C and beta-carotene. Antioxidants work to fight free radicals that can cause inflammation. When you consume antioxidants, you add more defence against free radical activity, protecting skin cells and tissue.

Exfoliates

One of the most well-known hibiscus skin benefits is its exfoliating properties due to alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. Incorporating this into your skincare routine will help to brush away dead skin cells and encourage fresh and smooth-looking skin. This facial scrub works to gently but deeply cleanse your pores, removing dead skin cells and impurities.

Moisturises

If you suffer from dry, flaking skin, then hibiscus could be a great solution to keep your skin smooth, soft, and moisturised. Hibiscus oil for the skin has high levels of mucilage content, which moisturises well. Hibiscus can be a valuable ingredient in facial moisturisers, like this Argan and Rosehip Facial Moisturiser.
Natural plant-based ingredients are necessary for a healthy skincare routine. By using products that contain hibiscus, you’ll be able to reap some of the benefits associated with this plant. If you’re looking to treat specific skin care needs, like anti-ageing or dryness, hibiscus skin benefits may help you with your needs, especially when mixed with other natural ingredients. If you’re interested in learning more about how natural ingredients in skin care products can benefit you, take a look at all of the ingredients we use in our products.

Why Switch To Aluminium-Free Deodorant?

October 25, 2022 by Matt

There was a time when we would hear the pressure run out and the spray ceased, telling us that our bottle of deodorant was at its end. All we had to do was pick up our brand of choice and we were on our way! Times have changed though, and we are becoming increasingly aware of potentially harmful chemicals in the products we use daily.

Some common ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants are aluminium and parabens which have been linked with various health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer. Though studies for this association are inconclusive thus far, people are becoming more conscious regarding the chemicals they might be putting into their bodies through the products they use on their skin.

Why is Aluminium in Deodorant?

Aluminium is the primary active ingredient in many antiperspirants because it works to prevent the user from sweating. Studies don’t currently prove that popular, big-brand deodorants and antiperspirants are bad for our health. Nonetheless, many people choose to switch to aluminium-free deodorant to avoid or lower exposure to those questionable ingredients, alleviate skin irritation, and gain peace of mind that they aren’t using anything on their skin that might be a health risk.

The Benefits of Aluminium-Free Deodorant

Aluminium-free deodorant offers odour protection that is just as good—or better—than formulas that contain aluminium. Deodorant without aluminium doesn’t prevent sweating, which does mean you are still going to have sweaty underarms, but without the odour. Your favourite brand will be up to personal preference. Some additional benefits of aluminium-free deodorant include:

Healthy Sweating

Sweating is a natural process. In fact, underarm pores are designed to sweat. Sweating helps our bodies remove excess heat while also providing an exit point for toxins we may take in through consumption or environmental circumstances.
Aluminium-based deodorants block pores from sweating, which can lead to acne and several other dermatological problems. This is exactly what antiperspirant products are designed to do: clog pores.

Avoid Underarm Irritation

Metals like aluminium in deodorant can trigger allergic reactions. With several popular deodorants using aluminium as a primary ingredient to stop sweat, this irritation is unavoidable in aluminium-based antiperspirants. Fragrance-free deodorant is not an indication that a product is aluminium-free, and irritation from some deodorants, unfortunately, doesn’t stop here.
Manufacturers often dissolve aluminium compounds and other active antiperspirant ingredients in alcohol because it helps to dry quickly while feeling cool when applied to the skin. This production method can dry out the skin causing antiperspirant irritation and potentially leading to dermatitis and other skin conditions.

Naturally Conquer Odour

Today, we can find effective, aluminium-free deodorant products that depend on natural essential oil solutions and other natural ingredients that help to minimize odour and fight bacteria. Deodorants without aluminium can combat odour to help users smell great without harmful chemical compositions.
Many chemically-conscious companies, like Arianrhod Aromatics, use naturally-sourced ingredients directly from the earth to create products that remain entirely free of any synthetic ingredients. One of our favourite ingredients is hemp seed oil that can help to soothe skin irritation (like what traditional deodorants cause in some individuals) while helping them to eliminate underarm odour.

Ethical Deodorant Products from Natural Resources

Arianrhod Aromatics takes pride in resourcing and scrutinizing ingredients for the highest possible quality, synthetic-free, natural solutions for our catalogue of natural skincare products. Our aluminium-free deodorant is no exception.

Many people experience significant difficulty finding the right solution to help them prevent underarm odour. However, selecting a deodorant without aluminium is a must if you are conscious of avoiding the potential risks associated with preventing perspiration and absorbing aluminium into the body.

We believe in honesty and transparency. Arianrhod Aromatics provides our customers (and potential new ones) with a list of all the ingredients we use in our products. With a wide range of hemp seed oil products, in addition to both fragranced and fragrance-free, aluminium-free underarm deodorant options, our customers have a plethora of options at their disposal.

Show your underarms some gratitude and choose Arianrhod Aromatics for your next deodorant purchase.

What to change when your acne won’t go away?

June 24, 2022June 20, 2022 by Matt

We want our acne to go away as soon as possible. But sometimes, even though we want to, we don’t have complete control over our hormones and genetics. Patience and good lifestyle habits can be needed to overcome troublesome acne. When short-term solutions won’t work, it may be time to check what other things are contributing to why your acne won’t go away. In this article, we will explore ways to help your acne go away gradually and focus on long-term benefits.

Avoid or Relieve Stress

A study of medical students published in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology has found that increased stress is strongly correlated with greater acne severity. Shadi Zar, from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Jeddah, in Saudi Arabia said: “For people with acne, psychological stress could delay wound healing, which could affect the repair of acne lesions.”

Stress may be one of the top causes of why your acne is not healing quickly. High-stress environments, be it work, home, or something else may contribute to worse acne outbreaks that take longer to heal. It is worth taking the time to reflect on your lifestyle and see if there is anywhere you can reduce or remove stress.

One way to avoid or de-stress is to have a calming soothing bath or even a shower. A bath or shower can turn into a daily moment of reset for the body and soul. A few drops of essential oil blends on the base of the shower or bath can help you find a harmonizing, calming, and balancing feeling both on your face and body. Sprinkle oils over potpourri, add to a porous ceramic container, or of course, use in a diffuser to help bring stress-relieving aromas into your routine.

You may like to use our 100% Pure Essential Oil Blend – After Hours after a long, hard day as this particular blend has a sensually spicy scent, designed to be welcoming, soothing, and uplifting – perfect for relieving stress. This relaxing essential oil blend was created to help you unwind at the end of the day and the natural ingredients help to eliminate airborne bugs that may have followed you home.

Lack of Sleep/Rest

According to onhealth.com “If you haven’t gotten enough rest the night before, the telltale sign of sleeplessness could sit on top of your nose. Acne can flare up when you aren’t getting enough sleep. In fact, sleep deprivation is considered one of the three main acne triggers, along with stress and sweating. Studies have borne this out. It’s possible that by disrupting your hormones, sleeplessness also unsettles the chemical balance in your skin that wards off pimples.”

Lack of sleep may also be related to stress. It’s hard to fall asleep when you’re stressed. It can make you uncomfortably awake at night. Following our suggested steps to avoid or relieve stress can calm your mind and body. Adults need to have 7 or more hours of sleep at night. Taking proper rest can have a good effect on your body and acne is less likely to flare or show up when you are well-rested.

Avoid using gadgets before sleep. Our many electronic toys provide entertainment that stimulates your brain and thus makes you feel more awake. If you have tired eyes after your daily work, Sativa Refine Eye Serum can help you feel more refreshed. Apply it to your delicate eye area. Carefully blended with cooling serum, cucumber oil, aloe vera, and the miracles of hemp seed oil, it can work miracles for you. Add to your list soft music to get you ready for a good night’s sleep.

Click here for more tips on how to get better sleep using natural methods and lifestyle changes.

Before, During and After Exercise

Excessive sweating during a workout can cause a buildup of oil, dirt, and bacteria on your skin. This buildup can cause acne or prevent healing of existing acne. Though you definitely need to continue to exercise as it also helps your body, a few reminders can help you avoid acne.
Here’s what to do according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Before your workout

Remove your makeup.
Put on clean workout clothes (washed since you last wore them).
Apply oil-free sunscreen before you head outside. If you’re going to exercise outdoors during the day, you can help prevent breakouts and other skin issues by protecting your skin from the sun.

To remove your makeup, we suggest using our all-natural Mari-J-Majik Facial Cleanser. This vegan-friendly cleanser will clean your face, removing make-up, sweat and the many other pollutants that land on our faces throughout the day.

There are natural ingredients like shea butter and silk amino acids that have some natural sun-blocking properties for those that don’t want to use a sunscreen. Our Sativa Lush Whipped Butter has ultra-rich, moisturising properties and anti-ageing protection for all skin types. It isn’t a replacement for sunscreen but if you are looking for a butter to use in these scenarios, this is the one we suggest.

During your workout

Use a clean towel to wipe off sweat.
Avoid sharing protective equipment like helmets or protective pads whenever possible and clean yours regularly. These can be full of acne-causing bacteria and oil, which may cause you to break out.
Wipe off shared equipment before you use it. Shared equipment can also be covered with acne-causing bacteria and oil that you are transferring to your own skin.

After your workout

Consider showering immediately after your workout.

We have carefully formulated our 100% pure and natural hemp soap range with the nourishing, enriching, moisturising oils of cold-pressed Australian Hemp Seed Oil, Olive and Coconut Oils; and Shea Butter. The silky, soothing texture and the gentle lathering action of Arianrhod’s soaps on your skin will immediately make you feel like your precious body is in safe hands. For a liquid body wash, try our Hemp Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Foods To Avoid And Foods To Look For

Lastly, you may want to look out for what foods you eat frequently that might be a contributor to your acne. Some foods may make it worse, while others help your skin stay healthy.

Some foods like pasta, white rice, white bread, and sugar are considered “high-glycemic” carbohydrates. Excess blood sugar can cause your oil glands to produce more sebum which increases the risks of acne and inflammation.

Eating low-glycemic foods made of complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of developing acne. We recommend eating a balanced diet rich in Vitamin A, E, and Zinc.

According to healthline.com “Several recent studies suggest that following a low-glycemic diet, or one that is low in simple sugars, can prevent and improve acne. Researchers in a 2012 study of Korean patients found that following a low-glycemic diet for 10 weeks can lead to significant improvements in acne.”

In summary, when your acne won’t go away, it’s worth taking the time to reflect on your lifestyle to see if there are things that can be changed that could make a difference for you. The continuous habits of a good lifestyle, be it stress, sleep, exercise or diet, can help your acne to heal faster and potentially prevent future outbreaks.

How to switch to a natural deodorant and why you should

January 11, 2024January 6, 2022 by Matt

Many of us are accustomed to buying and using deodorants from the supermarket. Because of the massive marketing of these antiperspirant products, and the ease of access at supermarkets, we often don’t stop to think about whether there is a better choice. After all, these aluminium deodorants, or antiperspirants, usually found in supermarkets, are a quick fix to stop your body sweating.

What you may not know, though, is that your body needs to sweat. Preventing yourself from sweating isn’t good for your health. We are here to offer you a quick guide on why you should make the switch and how to choose a natural deodorant. Your body will thank you for making the switch!

Why you might want to switch to natural deodorant

If you haven’t read our previous article yet about Why Use An Aluminium-Free Deodorant, I highly recommend doing so to dig deeper into the risks of aluminium in deodorant and the benefits of choosing an aluminium-free option.

To give you a quick overview of why you should switch to a natural, aluminium-free deodorant:

“Sweat is primarily made up of water and salt. Sweating is natural, it’s how we maintain our body temperature when we exercise or when it is just a hot day… Antiperspirant deodorant works by stopping the sweat glands temporarily with an aluminium compound. So, in essence, you can’t sweat. This makes it difficult for your body to regulate its temperature and can increase the risk of overheating.“

Then, of course, there are also the potentially harmful effects of aluminium absorption.

The hottest months in Australia are from December to February. In these months, people are more active in strenuous outdoor activities, whether it’s having fun in the sun, working in the garden or even just doing routine exercise! We naturally sweat more during these months.

It’s pretty common to use a lot of deodorant when you are sweating more. However, regular use of antiperspirant deodorants can do more harm than good and can even create bacterial imbalances that may make your armpits smell worse.

Better Health Victoria states:

“Sweat is produced by glands in the deeper layer of the skin, the dermis. Sweat glands occur all over the body, but are most numerous on the forehead, the armpits, the palms and the soles of the feet. Sweat is mainly water, but it also contains some salts. Its main function is to control body temperature. As the water in the sweat evaporates, the surface of the skin cools. An additional function of sweat is to help with gripping, by slightly moistening the palms.”

Thus when the heat is at its worst, it really is important for your body to be able to sweat naturally! Natural aluminium-free deodorant products do not block your sweat and instead work as an antibacterial agent to remove the bacteria that actually causes the smell when you sweat. It’s 100% natural, so you can be confident that you aren’t putting harsh chemicals or aluminium on your skin. Just the way nature intended.

The benefits of switching to a natural deodorant

Here’s three good reasons why you may want to switch to a natural aluminium-free deodorant.

It doesn’t block sweat

Sweat can help your body cool as it evaporates from your skin. Aluminium-free deodorant allows this natural cooling to happen, allowing your body to better manage its internal temperature. It is essential that we perspire, even more so in summer, and if we can continue to do so without the accompanying offensive odour then all the better for us and our health.

Works as an antibacterial agent to prevent odours from sweat

The smell is the main factor why most people use antiperspirant products. However, we know that this isn’t actually good for our health. The smell occurs when perspiration comes into contact with the naturally occurring bacteria on our skin. Thus, rather than blocking up your sweat glands and pouring chemicals on your skin, our natural aluminium-free deodorants work by using the 100% naturally occurring antibacterial agent, colloidal silver. Silver has been used since ancient times to guard against infection by killing bacteria, and underarm odour is nothing more than bacteria breeding in the moist conditions of our underarms.

Uses only natural ingredients (no aluminium)

Arianrhod’s range of aluminium-free deodorants has added anti-fungal Australian hemp seed oil and sodium bi-carbonate to help keep you dry without the potentially harmful side effects of aluminium. The hemp farm in Tasmania from which we source our Hemp Seed oil goes through a very careful process to prepare the oil. Hemp Seed Oil absorbs quickly and doesn’t block the pores, so it will help the skin balance its oil production. Baking soda shines when it comes to neutralising body odours and can eliminate the smell of sweat by making odours less acidic.

How to choose a natural deodorant

Natural deodorants come in many forms. Some are a paste that you apply, others are spray-on or roll-on. What type is right for you will come down to the ingredients and personal preference. I personally prefer spray-on because it is the easiest to apply, but I know others who swear by their roll-on.

At Arianrhod Aromatics, we take pride in choosing only the highest quality, synthetic-free, natural ingredients for our natural skincare products. You can learn more about the choices we make in selecting ingredients on our Ethical Choices page. Deodorant is no exception. When it comes to preventing underarm odours, choosing an aluminium-free deodorant is essential to avoiding the risks associated with preventing perspiration and aluminium absorption through your skin.

Check the ingredients list and make sure you can read it (and ideally recognise what everything is). If it sounds synthetic, it probably is.

Our aluminium-free deodorant range aims to prevent underarm odour by using natural antibacterial agents to remove the bacteria that actually cause the smell when you sweat, and all our ingredients are easily recognisable.

Whether you prefer one of our fragrances or a fragrance-free aluminium-free underarm deodorant, they all come in either a spray bottle or roll-on deodorant form with 100% recyclable packaging. Your armpits will thank you!

What is Maskne and how to prevent it?

November 5, 2021November 1, 2021 by Matt

Wearing a face mask has now become a norm. It has become part of our daily routine whenever we go out of our homes. It is even more critical when going to public places like grocery stores, restaurants, and shops. While using a face mask helps slow the spread of COVID-19, prolonged use may lead to skin problems. One of these is maskne, which we will talk about more as you read this article.

What is Maskne?

According to Healthline.com, “maskne” is “an umbrella term for several skin conditions that can be caused by wearing a face mask or covering”. Maskne is the condition where you develop breakouts of common skin irritations and acne from wearing a mask, hence the term. Maskne not only causes pimples but may also include other skin issues like redness, bumpiness, and irritation.

How real is maskne? Dermal clinician Robyn Jackson in abc.net.au said that she has seen more people seeking treatment for maskne at her clinic on the Sunshine Coast.

“I have in the past probably three weeks seen an increase and we’ve sort of aligned it with the fact that masks are mandatory…Even older people are starting to get irritations and breaking out on the chin area.”

Dr. Joyce Park, a board-certified dermatologist, said: “It’s an extremely common skin condition right now, during the pandemic. However, ‘maskne’ is not just limited to acne. When people refer to maskne, they might sometimes be referring to exacerbations of other conditions, like rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis (eczema), or perioral dermatitis. This may be an exacerbation of a previous condition or new development of a skin condition.”

What Causes Maskne?

Maskne is a form of “acne mechanica” – acne that occurs when friction and pressure is repeatedly applied to the skin. This type of acne breakout usually happens when your skin is rubbed, squeezed, or stretched, such as it might be when wearing masks regularly.

Common acne may be caused by a combination of clogged pores, hormones, and bacteria. Wearing a mask can exacerbate this by trapping for prolonged periods combined with additional humidity from your breathing. Add in the repeated friction of a mask against your skin that can cause inflammation over time as well and you have a recipe for maskne.

Dermal clinician Ms. Jackson said “maskne is caused by substances such as oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells becoming trapped under the mask that then blocks the pores and is a perfect environment for pimples. The masks trap the humidity because you’re breathing in and you’re perspiring under that mask area. [Other causes] can be friction, people touching the mask and moving it around, and the rubbing on the skin can create chafing and irritation.”

While friction, humidity and a bacteria jail from wearing a facemask may cause maskne, other factors can contribute to it.

Wearing makeup while using your face mask or covering can increase the clogging of pores.
Masks can trap sweat and humidity, and ironically, heat and sweat may also cause the skin to become dry, itchy, and raw, causing some other forms of maskne.

How do you know if you have maskne? Dr. Teo Wan Lin, one of Singapore’s prominent dermatologists explained”

“The appearance of maskne is similar to that of typical acne and can take the form of comedones, papules, and cysts. However, much more significant is the distribution of these acne bumps…maskne exclusively affects the area covered by the face mask. This takes on more of an O-Zone pattern – the cheeks, the area around the mouth, around the nose, and the jawline.”

Tips to Prevent Maskne

While maskne is real and can harm our skin, wearing a facemask is required in many circumstances. Dermatologist Michael Freeman said it must stay on to ‘save lives.’ In Australia, when the Victorian state government mandated the wearing of masks during that state’s second outbreak, their guidelines stated ‘[y]ou must carry a face mask with you when leaving home’ (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria, 2021). The same has been especially true in NSW and has been seen in other states as well.

Since wearing a face mask is now part of our daily lives (and may continue to be so even as restrictions ease), how do we prevent maskne?

Below are some of our mask usage tips:

Clean your fabric masks daily and single-use masks should not be used repeatedly (we want to avoid that build-up of oils, dead skin and bacteria).
Avoid touching your mask. It can cause friction and also bring bacteria and more oils from your hands that could lead to infection.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends removing your mask for 15 minutes every 4 hours to give your skin a break.
Dr. Thivi Maruthappu, a Consultant Dermatologist, said “Consider choosing soft fabrics such as cotton, which is gentler on the skin and is less likely to cause friction than synthetic fibers such as polyester.”
Healthline.com recommends applying a moisturiser before wearing a mask. If your skin tends to be dry, a mask may irritate it. Applying a non-comedogenic moisturiser like Sativa Fade can help hydrate your skin.
Simplify your skincare routine and avoid wearing makeup when using face masks.
Wash your face before and after using a face mask.

Dermatologists also recommend doing these strategies at home to take care of your face and prevent the breakout of maskne.

Apply a Topical Antibiotic Cream

Bacteria may build-up due to prolonged usage of masks which may cause acne. Dermatologists advise applying a topical antibiotic cream or gel on your face to avoid this.

Moisturise Often

A mask may irritate your skin and dry it out. If you have dry skin, help hydrate your skin by applying a non-comedogenic moisturiser. A moisturiser can lessen the friction and put a barrier between your skin and the mask.

We recommend using Mari-J-Majik Facial Moisturiser – a luxuriously rich facial moisturiser which absorbs to feed your skin with just the right balance of nutrients and moisture it needs. It also has cold-pressed Australian Hemp Seed Oil which is well known for aiding in clearing up acne.

Use a Gentle Skin Cleanser

Excess oil, sweat, and bacteria can be removed with the help of gentle cleansers. Avoid cleansers that contain alcohol or perfume to avoid extra skin irritation.

Our Sativa Clear Facial Cleanser products are formulated especially for oily, ‘hormonal’ skin conditions, particularly for acne at any age and those dealing with sensitive damaged skin.

How to Treat Maskne?

The likelihood of developing maskne with frequent mask use is high. And if you are one of those who suffer from this break-out, it is not the end. There are several ways to treat maskne symptoms.

Wash Your Face Regularly

You should continue doing your regular skincare routine even in this time of pandemic and that includes washing your face. To keep your face clean and oil-free, wash it regularly. You should wash early in the morning, after sweating or after wearing a face mask, and before going to bed at night. It is best to use lukewarm water when washing your face and then pat it dry with a clean towel. Avoid touching your face or rubbing your face that may lead to irritation.

Use a Gentle Cleanser and a Non-Comedogenic Moisturiser

You probably want to get rid of your maskne immediately but make sure to choose a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturiser. Products that contain alcohol and perfume are often irritating to the skin and can also clog your pores which may worsen the condition.
If you have sensitive skin, make sure to ask your doctor or dermatologist for the best type of medicated cleanser to use for your skin.

Apply Moisturiser with Ceramides

To help relieve itching and irritation, experts suggest you may apply a moisturiser that contains ceramides or by increasing your intake of foods that induce natural ceramide production in your skin, like sweet potatoes, soy, wheat, rice and corn. Our Sausage Tree Cream is rich in lipids, the fatty acids that are known as ceramides and is a great option to help relieve itching and irritation.

Take a Break From Make-Up

Allow your face to breathe by skipping make-up while treating your maskne. Make-up products may further irritate your skin and clog your pores causing the healing to take much longer.
“By avoiding the application of foundation and blush, the skin is allowed to return to its natural oil balance and hydration,” explains Nadia Kihiczak, MD, a dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City.

Maskne is real and it happens more frequently than you might think, even pre-pandemic. Take care of your skin to help prevent it and save yourself from unwanted break-outs. If you have a particularly severe maskne that goes beyond bad acne make sure to consult or follow up with your doctor or dermatologist as soon as possible.

What are the different skin types?

Normal skin

How to identify normal skin

How to take care of your normal skin

Oily skin

How to identify oily skin

Factors that can contribute to oily skin

How to take care of your oily skin

Dry skin

How to identify dry skin

Factors that can contribute to dry skin

How to take care of your dry skin

Combination skin

How to identify combination skin

Factors that can contribute to combination skin

How to take care of your combination skin

Sensitive skin

How to identify sensitive skin

Factors that can contribute to sensitive skin

How to take care of your sensitive skin

So, have you figured out what skin type you are?

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Moisturisers and Balms

Giving All-Natural Smiles

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What Are They Used In?

Smoothes and Softens

Acts as a Surfactant

What Is Tamanu Oil?

Fights Germs

Heals Skin

Pain Relief

What is Hibiscus Sabdariffa?

Anti-Aging Properties

Eases Inflammation

Moisturises

Why is Aluminium in Deodorant?

The Benefits of Aluminium-Free Deodorant

Healthy Sweating

Avoid Underarm Irritation

Naturally Conquer Odour

Ethical Deodorant Products from Natural Resources

Aluminium-Free Deodorant (Fresh Fragrance)

Aluminium-Free Deodorant (Fragrance-Free)

Avoid or Relieve Stress

Lack of Sleep/Rest

Before, During and After Exercise

Foods To Avoid And Foods To Look For

Why you might want to switch to natural deodorant

The benefits of switching to a natural deodorant

It doesn’t block sweat

Works as an antibacterial agent to prevent odours from sweat

Uses only natural ingredients (no aluminium)

How to choose a natural deodorant

What is Maskne?

What Causes Maskne?

Tips to Prevent Maskne

Apply a Topical Antibiotic Cream

Moisturise Often

Use a Gentle Skin Cleanser

How to Treat Maskne?

Wash Your Face Regularly

Use a Gentle Cleanser and a Non-Comedogenic Moisturiser

Apply Moisturiser with Ceramides

Take a Break From Make-Up

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