Trade in Your Lotions for Body Oils

We Americans are lotion lovers. But in Europe and other parts of the world, oil is actually the more popular option for hydrating dry skin... The truth is, most natural oils are easily absorbed, not greasy, and noncomedogenic; that is, they have a low potential to clog pores, which makes oils perfect for all skin types.

Moisturizers often contain the most synthetic chemicals and petroleum by-products, many of which are linked to health concerns. Seeing as moisturizers work by deeply penetrating skin, it's smart to consider using green products, which contain fewer synthetic chemicals that may enter your bloodstream.

If you are looking for a natural brand that is effective, look no further than Province Apothecary. 

An alluring body oil ideal for all skin types, their blend of beautiful plant-based essential oils quickly absorb deep into the skin to effectively nourish and soften, boost cellular circulation, and gently detoxify the body. The light and invigorating botanical fragrance will enliven and empower your spirit, leaving you balanced and revitalized.Organic Argan Kernel oil is considered one of the most valuable and sustainable oils in the world. It is an extremely moisturizing oil, high in Vitamin E, Omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is abundant in plant sterolins, which help restore skin’s lipid layer, improving its ability to retain moisture and resulting in softer, smoother skin.

Black Cumin Seed oil is long recognized in the Middle East as a medicinal oil. It soothes and moisturizes the skin and is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, copper, zinc and selenium. Avocado oil is rich in antioxidants, Vitamins A, D, and E and omega-3 fatty acids which deeply penetrate skin to fight dryness, dullness, and dehydration.

Yogurt, The Multitasker

Full of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and probiotics (the healthy bacteria that aid digestion), there’s no doubt yogurt provides delicious benefits for your insides. But it can also do beauty wonders for your outsides as well especially your skin.

Yogurt contains lactic acid which is an alpha hydroxy acid, that can dissolve dead skin cells. This gentle exfoliation not only helps to create a natural glow and prevent breakouts, but works to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles. When topically applied to the skin, a velvety yogurt face mask will help moisturize, fight acne, prevent premature aging, relieve sunburn, and reduce discoloration. It’s an all-around beauty multitasker.

Yogurt Mask Recipe DIY:

• 2 tablespoons greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon oats
• 1 teaspoon honey
• squeeze of lemon (careful to mix well and keep away from eyes!)

Directions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small mixing bowl and mix well.
2. Apply a thick coat to your face with clean finger tips. Let it settle for 15 minutes.
3. When the time is up, gently rinse your face with warm water and ensure the entire mask comes off.
4. Splash cold water on your face to close up your pores. Pat dry with a soft clean towel.

Cleanse The Acne Away

All types of skin can develop whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Acne tends to develop when an oily substance called sebum produced by sebaceous (oil-making) glands mixes with dead skin cells and other debris to plug pores and cause bacteria to thrive.

A common benefit of facial cleansing is the removal of dirt, oil, and other unwanted debris. Throughout the day the skin on your face is continually covered with bacteria, pollutants, viruses, dirt, and old (dead) skin cells. Daily facial washing removes these impurities to give the skin a fresh look.

Province Apothecary Moisturizing Cleanser + Make Up Remover with Avocado & Raspberry Oil is great for all skin types. This hydrating oil removes make up & excess oil, restoring your skin’s natural radiance while gently cleansing without over-drying your skin or destroying its natural pH. Raspberry Oil stimulates cell turnover, rejuvenating skin. Bergamot Oil clears congestion. Frankincense tones the skin. Lavender heals blemishes and works as a restorative. This essential oil blend calms, reduces stress, and relaxes your parasympathetic nervous system. This cleanser helps your skin stay nourished, balanced, and healthy. Also available unscented. 

Best Bug Buster

During the summer we always complain that there are more bugs than usual. For the most part, many bugs and insects go into some form of hibernation during the colder months. Other insects migrate someplace warm to wait out the colder months. Still others decide the best way to stay out of the cold is to camp out in your home. 

It’s important to be aware of the common bugs that you are sure to see in summer months, as some of them may actually pose a threat to you or your loved ones. Mosquitoes, which are certainly some of the most annoying insects out there, can actually be quite dangerous. These pesky creatures are known to spread diseases, some of which may actually be deadly. West Nile Virus spread by mosquitoes has become a serious threat in the United States in recent years. Other diseases that one may suffer from after a mosquito bite include malaria, dengue fever and chikungunya. And not to mention the now popular threat of the Zika Virus. 

Stay ahead of the disease-carriers with these tips for keeping the bugs at bay:

1. Get rid of stagnant water. 
2. Hire a pro to check hidden spots. 
3. Cover exposed skin. 
4. Eat indoors when possible. 

One of our popular baby brands in our store "Erbaviva" makes this wonderful organic bug repellant called 'Organic Buzz Spray'
Star ingredients: Catnip and Citronella
This spray is organic, and it contains the Lemon Eucalyptus listed above, citronella AND catnip! The EPA recommends a few different skin-applied ingredients to deter mosquitos  including Catnip and Citronella, so this spray covers a lot of bases!  This was also recently featured in Well Rounded Ny

And yes you read correctly above, Catnip...Researchers report that nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip that gives the plant its characteristic odor, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET the compound used in most commercial insect repellents. Due to the ingredient lemon eucalyptus oil, this should be used on children 3+. If any questions on use please feel free to contact us!

Its One Love, Morning, Noon and Night

During the summertime it may be a misconception that the humidity and sweat from the heat bring moisture to the body but this is not entirely true. During these warm summer months, you will be exposed to the sun on a much more extended basis, as well as salt water and chlorine if the beaches and pools tickle your fancy and these all add up to drying out your skin and hair. 

Most people have a certain skin routine and do not change it as the seasons change but let me tell you...its time for an update! Wearing makeup in the hot months and sweating then possibly falling asleep after a long nights out are HORRIBLE for the integrity of your skin. 

Add these simple steps to your daily routine for the softest skin, that people will have to touch...Let One Love show you the way

In the Mornings:

One Love Organics' Gardenia + Tea Antioxidant Body Serum is one to beat, not to mention environmentally friendly and cruelty-free. The formula has the benefits of two exotic oils, sea buckthorn and chia which add omega-3 and 7 to skin. In a base of coconut oil derivative and sunflower oil, the gardenia scent has a chance to scent skin to the perfect degree. Plus, it works as a beach essential because it can be used in the hair as well!

During the day:

During the day, One Love Organics' Vitamin D Moisture Mist is a part lightweight moisturizer, part toner, this botanical mist infuses skin with emollient oils and Vitamin E via a delayed time-release delivery system for long-lasting hydration and unparalleled efficacy. Shiitake mushroom, a natural source of Vitamin D, helps tone and balance while antioxidant-rich alpine rose helps to protect against environmental stressors and elemental dryness.

At Night:

Remember to wash the day off with the One Love Organics' Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover which effortlessly lifts away impurities and makeup while restoring skin’s natural moisture barrier and pH balance. This non-stripping, clean-rinsing formula features papain, a fruit enzyme that helps to exfoliate and soften, and a natural Vitamin B complex to detoxify and tone.

The Power of Chia

“#MTT Makeup Tip Thursday ”

— Brandon Cross

        Relatively unknown in North America until recently, Chia Seeds have been a staple food in Mexico for centuries. Chia seeds come from a species of flowing plant in the Mint family and have been highly valued as an endurance promoting food by the Mayans and Aztecs since ancient times. A rich vegetarian source of omega-3, antioxidants and bone building minerals, Chia seeds even possess anti-cancer properties. These remarkable seeds naturally boost energy, help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote gentle detoxification.

        Maya Chia is a clean beauty line founded by Susanne Norwitz, an escapee of the corporate fast track and an unabashed dreamer/believer in pursuing your passions. In line with the company’s commitment to health and wellness, Maya Chia skin care products are free from harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates, and colorants. All of our products are made in the USA in Charleston, SC.

        Makeup can be a sensitive topic for those with sensitive skin but now products are being made with more skin related issues in mind. Maya chia is perfect for those with skin irritation, redness or even rosacea. If the skin is calm then there will be a more seamless application of topical cosmetics. Start from the root of the issue and you will exude the beauty within. 

STOP DAMAGING YOUR SKIN

The sun can do a lot of damage to your skin cells and epidermal layer. We often forget that lack of sun protection can cause age spots, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. 

Most people only use sunscreen during summer seasons, or at the beach, not knowing that the sun's UV rays can damage our skin cells all year round.  The #1 cancer in men and women from ages 25-30 is skin cancer caused by prolonged sun exposure. You must protect your head with hats and your skin with an SPF of 15 or higher lotion.  SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and the SPF # tells you how long the product will protect your skin from the sun. Also, don’t even think about hitting up that tanning salon. The UVA radiation from tanning beds are three times as harmful as the sun. You may love the way you look now, but the sun damage will be evident in your mature years. No one wants to look older than they really are.

The sun's UV rays cause 90% of wrinkles, so think harder about that tan before you sit in the sun for hours to achieve a bronzed look. Sun damage is the #1 cause of premature aging; especially in lighter skin, and can lead to dark spots on the skin also called sun spots or hyperpigmentation. Make sure your SPF 15 or higher sunscreen contains one of these active ingredients: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or avobenzone. 

At Cedra Pharmacy we carry the following SPF lotions:

• Avene Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50
• Avene Ultra-Light Hydrating Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
• Avene Moderate Protection Sunscreen Spray SPF 20
• Avene Light Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (Non-Whitening)
• Avene Ultra-Light Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (Non-Whitening)

Tip: Creams and lotions in tubes last longer than those in jars. Keep moisturizers out of the sun or from direct sunlight from the window. Only keep products that you have opened for up to a year. 

Have a great Summer!