Often called “the new Botox,” facial acupuncture offers a gentler, less invasive path to smoother, more radiant skin—without the needles that freeze your expression or the downtime that comes with surgery. Instead, this ancient practice supports your body’s healing mechanisms, naturally encouraging circulation, collagen production, and a healthy glow.

We’re always exploring the natural alternatives here at HUM. Dive into the ins and outs of facial acupuncture with us as we explore this botox alternative. Don’t get us wrong, we aren’t opposed to Botox! Do what you gotta do, girl. A little tuneup never hurt, but we’re always open to new methods.

What Is Facial Acupuncture?

“Facial Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine,” states Acupuncturist Mimi Wang. “The philosophy is holistic, aiming to restore balance and support the body’s natural ability to rejuvenate and revitalize the face from within. Facial acupuncture stimulates specific points on the face and body. Activating these points brings blood, qi (vital energy), and balance to the face’s skin, muscles, ligaments, and fascia. This rejuvenates the face on a physical level by reducing inflammation, initiating collagen production, and improving circulation to reduce signs of aging.” 

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How Facial Acupuncture Works

Each facial acupuncture journey begins with a personalized consultation to discuss your skin concerns, goals, and overall health. From there, the treatment starts with body acupuncture, using fine, hair-thin needles placed on specific points to address internal imbalances that may be affecting your skin. Once the body is aligned, attention turns to the face. Super-fine needles are gently inserted into targeted areas to stimulate circulation, boost collagen, and address visible skin concerns. These needles are retained for a short time, allowing for deep relaxation, nervous system regulation, and the release of emotional tension—all of which contribute to healthier, more radiant skin. Wang completes the session with a soothing facial acupressure massage, followed by facial cupping, Gua Sha, and a skincare application tailored to the client’s needs.

While many people notice a glow or subtle improvements after the first treatment, lasting results typically require consistency. The number of sessions needed can vary depending on your goals, age, lifestyle, and diet, but a standard initial series usually includes 10–12 treatments spaced about one to two weeks apart.

How Long Do Results Last?

As a comparison, Botox lasts approximately three to four months but can vary depending on the individual, the amount of Botox injected, and how often it’s being injected. “The approach to facial acupuncture is holistic, with the goal of achieving long-term, comprehensive skin health,” Wang says. “When maintained, the benefits can last anywhere from several months to years. It is important to note that a healthy lifestyle—encompassing a healthy diet, stress management, and consistent skincare use—can significantly enhance and prolong your results.”

This risk-free beauty alternative treatment goes far beyond just acupuncture—it’s a complete facial rejuvenation experience. After the needling portion, Wang performs a calming facial massage using acupressure techniques and essential oils to ease tension in the facial muscles and help prevent fine lines caused by repeated expressions. Facial cupping follows, using small suction cups to boost circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage, which reduces puffiness and brings fresh blood flow to the skin. This not only enhances your natural glow but also helps lift and sculpt facial muscles. Then comes facial Gua Sha, where the smooth tool is gently glided across the skin to stimulate collagen production, release muscle tension, and improve skin elasticity. These techniques work harmoniously to promote a more radiant, toned, youthful appearance.

Facial Acupuncture vs. Botox

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FAQs

How is it different from Botox?

Unlike Botox, which freezes facial muscles to reduce wrinkles, facial acupuncture works by naturally stimulating circulation, collagen production, and the body’s healing processes. It’s non-invasive, doesn’t involve chemicals, and has no downtime.

Does facial acupuncture hurt?

Most people find the treatment relaxing. The needles used are extremely fine—much thinner than those used for injections—so discomfort is minimal or nonexistent.

Can facial acupuncture help with acne or skin texture?

Absolutely! In addition to reducing signs of aging, facial acupuncture can help improve skin tone, texture, and clarity. It also supports internal balance, which can be helpful for conditions like acne or dullness.

Are there any side effects?

Facial acupuncture is generally safe, with very few side effects. Occasionally, you might experience minor bruising or redness at needle sites, but this usually fades quickly.

The Takeaway on Facial Acupuncture

In a world where more people are prioritizing natural, holistic approaches to beauty and wellness, facial acupuncture stands out as a powerful alternative to Botox. It doesn’t just treat surface-level concerns—it treats from the inside out, supporting your body’s natural ability to heal, restore, and glow. With its combination of ancient techniques and modern skincare benefits, facial acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and deeply relaxing path to youthful, radiant skin—without the risks or harsh side effects of injections. Whether you’re looking to soften fine lines, improve skin tone, or simply treat yourself to a more mindful self-care ritual, facial acupuncture is a treatment worth exploring.

The post Is Facial Acupuncture the New Botox? appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.

If you’re skincare-obsessed, you’ve likely heard about how ceramides are like magic for your complexion. But if you’re not a skincare guru or don’t spend your free time perusing skincare products and supplements at the drugstore, you may not be familiar with ceramides. The world of skincare can be a bit overwhelming—especially when it comes to all of the buzzy ingredients trending on the internet. To help, we put together a guide on everything you need to know about ceramides, which are the fats in our skin cells. After this quick read, you’ll learn what ceramides are, how they can help aging skin, and why you should get to know this superstar ingredient for happier, healthier skin.

What are Ceramides?

Ceramides are a prevalent type of fat in the uppermost layers of your skin that form a natural skin barrier. You can think of them as the glue that holds your skin cells together to keep your barrier intact. They play a role in your skin’s:

• Structure
• Protection
• Permeability

Ceramides help create a barrier to prevent water loss in your skin and provide protection from external (and potentially harmful) elements. A properly-functioning skin barrier keeps moisture locked in, which helps decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and increases plumpness and firmness of the skin. 

Ceramides are quite important for the overall health of your skin. However, the number of ceramides in your skin declines with age, which is why ceramides are a popular ingredient in anti-aging products. Harsh climates and sun exposure can also reduce the ceramide content in your skin.

Benefits of Ceramides for Skin

We know that ceramides support a healthy skin barrier, but what else do they do, exactly? Below are five key benefits of ceramides for your skin.

1. Ceramides Maintain the Skin Barrier

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and the first layer of defense against harsh weather (think: intense sun or super cold winds), harmful toxins, bacteria, viruses, and more. As the number of ceramides in your upper layers of skin diminishes, your skin barrier is compromised. You can become more susceptible to these irritants, leading to inflammation and infection. A compromised skin barrier could result in dryness, redness, flaking, and even acne.

2. Ceramides Boost Hydration Levels of the Skin

One of the protective roles of ceramides is to maintain water permeability of your skin. This helps lock in moisture to keep your skin adequately hydrated. Dry skin can be rough and have small cracks, which increases your susceptibility to inflammation. As mentioned earlier, lower ceramide levels are associated with dry skin conditions, including eczema. One study found that enzymes involved in ceramide deficiencies are increased in diseased states, like atopic dermatitis. TL;DR: Ceramides help to maintain smooth, glowing skin.

3. Ceramides Reduce the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Because ceramides help control your skin’s hydration levels, a lack of ceramides can lead to the more visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Think about it: Dried fruit, which is fruit with the water removed, often appears wrinkled and shriveled. The same can happen to your skin since ceramides naturally decline as we age. Plump skin (and fruit) is well-hydrated. 

Ceramides help boost your skin’s hydration, decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to boosting collagen production, maintaining adequate ceramide concentration in your skin to boost hydration can help give your skin a youthful glow.

4. Ceramides Protect Your Skin Against UV Damage

You already know sun exposure can damage your skin, increasing the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and fine lines. And even if you’re putting on SPF, there’s always a chance you might get too much sun. Good news: Ceramides can help protect against damage from the sun. 

Skincare products with ceramides can help reduce inflammation and help repair the skin barrier. Even more, moisturizers with ceramides can help reduce pigmentation from the sun (bye, bye pesky sun spots). This is especially important if you have chronic sun exposure.

5. Ceramides Improve Overall Skin Health 

Many skin conditions are associated with a reduction in ceramides or altered ceramides. Experts found that many inflammatory conditions, like acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema, are associated with changes in the number of proteins expressed in affected skin versus healthy skin. These changes are correlated with lower ceramide levels in the skin.

To help combat ceramide deficiencies in the skin, experts suggest using topical skincare products that contain ceramides and ingesting a supplement with ceramides.

Where to Find Ceramides

Ceramides are most commonly found in skincare products (think: ceramide moisturizers or ceramide serums). However, you can also find them in supplements, like HUM’s Mighty Night. One study found that oral intake of a ceramide supplement significantly increased moisture content of the skin in individuals who previously complained of dry skin. Regularly taking a ceramide supplement can yield impressive benefits (especially if paired with ceramide skincare products).

Another study found that ceramide intake can help decrease hyperpigmentation, redness, and itchiness of the skin. Luckily, none of these studies reported adverse effects or negative side effects.

Food Rich in Ceramides

One way to ingest more ceramides is to add ceramide-rich foods to your diet. To help replace vanishing ceramides in your skin you can consume ceramide-rich foods, including:

• Dairy products, like milk, yogurt, kefir, and cheese
• Eggs
• Sweet potatoes
• Soybeans
• Wheat germ
• Corn
• Brown rice

Dairy and eggs contain the highest quantities of ceramides. Many plants contain phyto-ceramides (or ceramides from plants), including soybeans, wheat germ, rice, and white peach. Fun fact: White peach is found to have twice the amount of ceramides compared to other fruits.

While you’d have to eat a lot of these foods to consume clinical amounts of ceramides, these are healthful foods that can support your ceramide levels and will promote overall good health, too.

Who Should Consume More Ceramides?

As we’re all aging, we can all benefit from more ceramides in our supplement and beauty routines. However, if you tend to have dry skin, use harsh irritants on your skin, or have excessive sun exposure, ceramides can be particularly beneficial.

If you’re looking to supplement with ceramides, most research has been done with 11 to 70 mg of ceramides daily. Some research also looked at the ingestion of collagen, hyaluronan, and procyanidin for effective skin moisturization. 

HUM’s Mighty Night contains 70 mg of ceramides, derived from (certified gluten-free) wheat lipids to help you get your beauty sleep. It works by renewing skin overnight, improving the texture and tone of your skin. Mighty Night also contains a blend of plant botanicals that supports deeper sleep, as well as antioxidants that help reduce free radical damage. After about a month of consistent use, you can expect to see better-hydrated skin.

The Takeaway

Ceramides are naturally found in your body, but you may need a little extra help as you age or if you suffer from dry skin to maintain the ceramide content in your skin. As a result, you’ll support your skin’s protective barrier and hydration, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

The post 5 Reasons Your Skin Needs More Ceramides (In Your Food, Supplements, and Skincare) appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.

So you woke up, looked in the mirror, and noticed your face looks a little puffier than usual. (You’re not alone.) It’s not the end of the world, but face puffiness can be annoying, especially if you’re sitting on Zoom all day or have a big event. After all, neither your best full-coverage concealer or nourishing face lotion can solve it. Whatever the cause—having one too many margaritas or snacking on extra potato chips, for example—there are ways to fix it ASAP. Below, dermatologists share what causes a puffy face and exactly how to depuff your face.

The Most Common Puffy Face Causes

What causes a puffy face anyway? “Facial puffiness that is new or sudden may occur as a result of allergies, infections, skin irritation, medication reactions, and more,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist from New York City. “Fluid retention can contribute to facial puffiness as well, and this can result from lifestyle factors.”

These factors include:

• Lack of sleep: Sleep allows the parasympathetic nervous system to drain excess fluids from the facial soft tissue back into the veins. When you don’t get enough sleep, it creates a stress response that creates more swelling and inflammation in the face. 
• Alcohol intake: Alcohol dehydrates the body because it’s a diuretic, which causes us to urinate more. As a result, our skin and other vital organs try to hold onto water—causing bloating in the face and other areas of the body.
• Excess sodium: So you snacked on a whole bag of potato chips and you’re noticing your face is looking extra puffy. That’s because excess sodium pulls water into your blood vessels and enlarges them—leading to a more bloated appearance.

If you notice that your undereyes look puffier than the rest of your face, it’s not in your head—it can happen. “Undereye puffiness can occur as a result of genetics or as a result of aging,” Dr. Garshick explains. “Some people can experience fat herniation in the undereye area, causing the fat to come forward making the undereye area appear puffy,” Dr. Garshick explains. Typically, this is genetic, but other factors (such as age and environmental stressors) can cause this as well. Treatments for this include undereye fillers, surgical procedures, or topicals (such as retinol or caffeine).

It should be noted that if a puffy face is accompanied by other symptoms, you should seek medical help. “If you have any throat tingling or swelling, shortness of breath or difficulting swallowing, go to an ER as it might be an allergic reaction and emergency,” says Caren Campbell, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist with offices in San Francisco and Napa Valley.

Common Puffy Face FAQs

1. What causes a puffy face?
A puffy face can be caused by water retention, high salt intake, allergies, lack of sleep, or inflammation. Hormonal changes and certain medical conditions can also contribute.

2. How can I reduce facial puffiness quickly?
Applying a cold compress, using a jade roller, or washing your face with cold water can help reduce swelling quickly by constricting blood vessels.

3. Does diet affect facial puffiness?
Yes, a diet high in salt, alcohol, or processed foods can cause water retention and puffiness. Staying hydrated and eating foods rich in potassium, like bananas or avocados, can help balance fluids.

4. Can sleep affect facial puffiness?
Poor sleep or lying flat for long periods can cause fluid to pool in your face. Sleeping with your head slightly elevated and getting enough rest can minimize puffiness.

5. Are there skincare products that help with a puffy face?
Yes, products containing caffeine, green tea extract, or peptides can reduce puffiness by tightening the skin and improving circulation. Look for depuffing eye creams or face masks.

6. When should I see a doctor about a puffy face?
If facial puffiness is persistent, painful, or accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling in other areas, consult a healthcare provider to rule out serious conditions.

How to Depuff Your Face

For one-off puffy days, try one or more of these expert-backed methods to reduce puffiness.

1. Apply Cold Tea Bags

Soak tea bags in cold water, and apply them below your eyes to help with undereye puffiness. “Cold tea bags are a great home remedy—not only does the cold provide a depuffing and soothing effect, but the tea bags contain caffeine, which helps to shrink the blood vessels, reducing both redness and puffiness in addition to antioxidants to help brighten the undereye skin,” Dr. Garshick says.  (Psst: That’s just one of the many green tea benefits for skin.)

2. Use Caffeine-Infused Skincare

In the same way your morning cup of coffee can perk up your brain, caffeine-infused skincare products can perk up your skin (read: depuff your face). “Caffeine in skincare works to constrict the blood vessels, which can help to reduce puffiness and swelling,” Dr. Garshick says. “When looking for eye creams specifically, it can also help to use ones that use a cold metal applicator which can help to achieve a depuffing effect.”

3. Cool Your Skincare Products

If you’re constantly dealing with a puffy face, it may be time to clear out some space in your fridge—from your skincare products. Dr. Garshick says it’s one effective way to depuff your face. “Keeping skincare products in the refrigerator can offer an additional cooling benefit to the skin, which can help to depuff the skin,” she says. You can also invest in a mini skincare fridge to keep products close by to where you get ready (and avoid any condiment mixups!)

4. Try Antihistamines

Another solution for how to depuff your face in a pinch? A trip to the drug store could help. “Antihistamines can be helpful in some cases—such as Zyrtex, Xyzal, or Allegra Daily,” Dr. Campbell says. However, if you’re dealing with a more serious infection, Dr. Campbell says a trip to the doctor is the answer. They can prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, like steroids or antibiotics, to help.

5. Use a Facial Roller

There are so many fancy skincare gadgets on the market, but the best one for a puffy face is simple: a facial roller. More specifically, a cold facial roller. Dr. Garshick says using one can help depuff your face. “They can temporarily be helpful to reduce puffiness by helping to mobilize the fluid and improve circulation,” she says.

6. Ice Your Skin

All those TikToks you’ve been seeing of people applying ice cubes directly to their faces? There is some merit to this method, Dr. Garshick says. “It is thought that icing can be soothing on the skin and have a depuffing effect, helping to tighten the overall appearance of the skin,” she says. “It is also thought to help reduce inflammation and redness, which can also help to reduce blemishes. In addition, it may actually help promote better absorption of other skincare products as when the capillaries restrict, it is thought to cause a pulling effect, drawing subsequent products in.” All that said, she notes that applying ice directly onto the skin can be harsh.

Instead, keep a face mask in the fridge and apply it to your skin, Dr. Campbell says. “Or try using an ice pack with a dry washcloth in between your skin and the ice pack.”

7. Adjust Your Diet Accordingly

The foods you eat can help your body naturally detox itself, boost collagen levels, improve your liver and gut health, balance your hormones, and so much more. By adjusting your diet, you can prevent your face puffiness. “Try to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sodium to minimize facial puffiness, as these can be dehydrating and contribute to puffiness,” Dr. Garshick says.

8. Keep Your Head Up

Changing your go-to sleeping position may be difficult, but it’s worth the work if you want to get rid of a puffy face. When you sleep, fluid can pool in your face (especially under your eyes) and cause excess face puffiness. The fix? Try sleeping with your head slightly elevated, Dr. Campbell says. It will help reduce any fluid retention and help depuff your face.

The Best Products to Depuff Your Face

Want to stock up on some de-puffing products? These derm favorites can help you achieve the perfect look. 

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• Herbivore Jade Depuffing Face Roller, $32: “This roller works to improve lymphatic drainage and improve overall circulation leaving the skin looking radiant and glowing,” Dr. Garshick says. “It can be used in conjunction with a facial oil to help boost absorption of the facial oil.” 
• Skinceuticals Biocellulose Restorative Mask, $20: Dr. Campbell says to look for, “a simple biocellulose mask with no additives like fragrance or essential oils (a must to ensure things don’t get worse).” Store this one in the fridge to depuff your face.
• Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Anti-Puff Eye Roller, $13: “This drugstore, affordable option is a great quick fix for undereye puffiness as it contains caffeine to help reduce the appearance of the undereye bags by constructing the blood vessels, as well as vitamin C and mint,” Dr. Garshick says. “The cool microstimulating roll-on applicator makes it so satisfying to literally roll the puffiness aside.”

The post This Depuffing Morning Routine Will Save Your Face After A Late Night Out (Or In) appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.

Well, it happened—whether you had a beach day, went to a pool party, enjoyed a hike, or simply just spent too much time outside with too little sun protection, you ended up with sunburn. And while we know it’s important to wear SPF—as it can prevent damaging sun exposure which can put us at risk for skin cancer—it’s easy to forget re-apply when you’re enjoying yourself. If you notice your skin is pink or red after some time outside, you’re dealing with sunburn. It’s a pain (literally), but there are ways to heal it quickly.

We spoke to a dermatologist to find out how to get rid of sunburn fast (and included a list of the best things for sunburn) so you can get back outside and enjoy the warm weather.

What Is Sunburn?

You know what sunburn feels like and looks like, but what is sunburn, exactly? Sunburn is an inflammatory response that happens when our skin is exposed to UV rays for a prolonged amount of time without any protection. “The skin cells become red, swollen, hot, and painful to touch,” explains Dr. Anar Mikailov, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of KP Away. “It can even blister, but do not pop the blisters, they are filled with fluids that help heal the skin.”

How Long Do Sunburns Last?

There’s not a concrete answer for how long it takes for sunburn to heal, unfortunately. It depends on the severity of the burn. Light or moderate sunburn can take anywhere from three to seven days to heal completely. However, blistering or peeling skin can take up to two weeks to fully recover. During this time, it’s essential to keep your skin covered and out of the sun to prevent any further damage or blistering.

How to Get Rid of Sunburn

Once again, it’s important to note that the treatment for sunburn depends on the severity of the burn. “If you have blisters involving over 25 percent of your body, then you should see a doctor,” Dr. Mikailov says. “If you develop significant pain, that’s another reason to see a doctor.” But if you’re wondering what helps sunburn, here are a few things Dr. Mikailov recommends.

Take an Anti-Inflammatory

Since sunburn is an inflammatory response your body has to sun exposure, one of the best things you can do is take an anti-inflammatory (like ibuprofen) to reduce said inflammation. You can also incorporate other anti-inflammatory habits into your routine while you recover, such as getting enough sleep, moving your body daily, and eating whole foods such as vegetables, fiber-rich whole grains, and plant-based proteins.

Bathe in Cool Water

Have you ever noticed that your sunburn still feels hot even long after you’ve left the sun? Taking down the temperature on your shower offers instant sunburn relief and can accelerate healing. “Cool the skin with a cool bath or shower to reduce the heat in the skin,” Dr. Mikailov suggests. Avoid hot showers, as they can cause more irritation in the moment and can dry out your skin even more (which can exacerbate post-sunburn peeling or blistering). Taking a few cool showers can help bring down the color of the sun damage quickly to get rid of sunburn redness overnight

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Try Slugging

If you’ve been on TikTok, you’ve likely heard of slugging. It’s a Korean beauty protective skincare practice that involves sealing in all of your skincare with a heavy occlusive (a moisturizing product that forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss). While slugging your face and hair slugging have become more popular, you can also try the practice on your body. “After the heat is drawn out of the skin [from your cool shower], in areas of significant burn ‘slugging’ with a thick layer of vaseline or coconut oil will help the skin heal,” Dr. Mikailov says. For itchy sunburn, he recommends slugging with aloe vera and similar cooling or menthol gels.

Pro tip: This is especially effective if you’re dealing with sunburned lips. Try adding a coat of vaseline onto your pout before you sleep for best results.

Use Thick Creams or Emollients

We’ve all been there: Not only is your skin red, hot, and tender to the touch, it’s also covered in white flakes. To get rid of peeling skin from sunburn, a thick cream can help. “As your skin peels, switch to thick emollients or creams with plant-based oils to restore your body’s natural oil,” Dr. Mikailov says. “[These products] can help repair your lipid barrier and speed up healing.” 

Here’s what Dr. Mikailov says to put on sunburn:

• KP Away Lipid Repair Emollient: “This is the only cream on the market that has organic coconut oil that actually absorbs,” he says. “It was designed for the most sensitive skin to regenerate our natural skin oil and skin barrier. Coconut oil is a super ingredient that is naturally antimicrobial.” That means it may be helpful against preventing infections, which can result in severe cases of sunburn.
• Badger Aloe Vera Gel: “I always look for minimum ingredients,” Dr. Mikailov says. “This one has very few ingredients and comes in 50 percent-recycled packaging.”
• Burt’s Bees After Sun Soother: “In addition to aloe vera and coconut oil, it has anti-inflammatory ingredients like bisabolol and honey.”

What about the old wive’s tale about shaving cream for sunburn? There’s no evidence to show that using this product will help. However, some shaving creams contain hydrating ingredients that may help symptoms somewhat. Still, you’re better off using a thick cream that’s dermatologist-approved. Same goes for the trend of using vinegar for sunburn. The harsh ingredient will only cause pain upon application and will dry out your skin, causing more irritation.

Avoid Exfoliation

Speaking of those annoying white flakes, you may be tempted to slough them off with an exfoliant. But Mikailov says any kind of exfoliation (physical and chemical) should be avoided, as it will only cause more irritation. Instead, keep applying heavy creams until the flaking and redness subside. (And yes, that also means you should avoid peeling sunburn.)

Steer Clear of Harsh Products

As a general skincare rule, it’s best to avoid extremely harsh products (or use them sparingly). However, when you’re dealing with sunburn it’s especially important to do so. If you’re using tretinoin or retinol, it’s best to discontinue use until your skin is fully healed. Dr. Mikailov also suggests avoiding products with dye and fragrance, as these ingredients can be irritating.

“Mint and witch hazel should also be avoided, as they can potentially irritate sun-damaged skin,” he says. “Neosporin should be avoided—it is the number one cause of allergic contact dermatitis in North America.” 

Drink Extra Water

We all know it’s important to stay hydrated. But it’s especially important if you’re dealing with sun damage. Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Drinking extra water when you are sunburned will help prevent dehydration.

Combat UV Damage with Supplements

No matter how careful you are with sunscreen, sun damage can happen to anyone. Adding a supplement like HUM Nutrition’s Turn Back Time can help combat signs of UV damage and help shield your skin from additional sun damage. It contains polypodium leucotomos to protect your skin from the effects of sun exposure, alpha lipoic acid (ALA) to protect against skin-damaging oxidative stress, and vitamin C to help boost skin cell protection and collagen production.

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How to Prevent Sunburn

While there are several sunburn treatments, the best thing you can do is prevent it from happening altogether. Experiencing five or more blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 increases one’s melanoma risk by 80 percent and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk by 68 percent, according to the AAD.

Word to the wise: Getting a “base tan” at a local tanning bed won’t protect you from getting sunburn—and it will only increase your chances of getting skin cancer later in life, according to the AAD. “No one needs a ‘base tan’ to avoid a sunburn—the best way to avoid a sunburn is to use the proper sun protection,” Dr. Mikailov says. “For those with red hair and quick-to-burn skin types, you must be much more rigorous than those who tan easily.”  

Another myth Dr. Mikailov wants to bust? Patients with darker skin don’t experience sunburn because their skin naturally contains melanin. “Darker skin can burn as well, but it may not be as easily noticeable compared to lighter skin,” he says. Regardless of your skin tone, “Everyone should wear SPF.”

The best approaches to avoiding sunburn include: 

• Minimize exposure during the highest UV index hours which are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Wear UPF clothing. “UPF fabric is significantly superior to non-UPF fabric,” Dr. Mikailov says. “A standard white cotton polo shirt will provide a protection factor of about eight to 10 SPF, whereas the specialized fabrics will have an SPF of 50 or greater.” He recommends brands like Coolibar and Mott50.
• Wear UPF hats to protect the delicate skin on your face from UV damage. 

Apply appropriate sunscreen regularly. Look for broad-spectrum SPF with at least an SPF of 30. If you’re going to be in the sun for an extended amount of time (or you’re going to be underwater or sweating), make sure you reapply every two hours.

The post 8 Steps to Help Heal Sunburn Fast—And What to Skip appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.

By now, you’ve heard about how the sun’s harmful UV rays have been linked to everything from sunburn and dark spots to premature aging and even skin cancer, per the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). That hopefully means you’re already arming yourself with all the right sun-protective measures, including, of course, SPF. Luckily, there’s no shortage of sunscreens out there as well as SPF-laden skincare and makeup products that can help shield your skin from the sun. But does layering SPF work? Not exactly, according to professionals. We tapped skin experts to understand the science of SPF and what products and practices should be part of your sun care puzzle. 

What Is SPF, Really?

SPF stands for “sun protective factor” and is a measure of how effective sunscreens are in comparison to each other, explains Richard Torbeck, MD, New York City-based dermatologist. “SPF allows for a generalized comparison and a standard to test sunscreens that can give the public an idea of how effective the sunscreen they use is when selecting an option,” he says. “It is also helpful to inform consumers with the type of UV protection it covers, UVA1/2, UVB, and visible light which each can cause different types of cancer or skin reactions.”

Sunscreens with higher SPF offer more protection against a myriad of conditions caused by the sun, but especially skin cancer. Skin cancer can be quite serious and, in fact, deadly, Claire O’Bryan, ANP-C, nurse practitioner and co-founder of The Skin Clique, points out. At least one in five Americans will receive a skin cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. 

As awareness for sun protection has increased, more companies and more companies have included SPF in their products—from foundation to face lotion to hairspray. With so many SPF-laden products, it can be hard to truly know what amount of protection you’re getting. For instance, if you apply a moisturizer with SPF, then add on a foundation that contains SPF and top it all off with an SPF-containing setting spray, are you getting a ton of SPF coverage once everything’s combined? “Now we know so much more, and I think it’s great SPF is everywhere; however, my only concern is that people don’t get a false sense of protection from products that really have quite a low SPF,” says O’Bryan.

Does Layering SPF Work?

According to O’Bryan, you’re only ever wearing the highest amount of SPF that you put on. For instance, if you apply SPF 50—whether that’s in the form of a lotion, foundation, concealer, or a spray, and then an additional layer of SPF 50—you’ll still have SPF 50. “Nothing changes the SPF number but the amount of active ingredient in the product, she says. “However you will be better protected because you’re less likely to miss any spots with more coats or layers,” she says. 

O’Bryan also points out that while makeup can have an SPF listed, the amount of makeup required to actually achieve that level of SPF is significantly more than anyone would ever use, which means that you’re not really getting the coverage you think you’re getting. “Typically, to reach the SPF advertised in a true makeup product, you would need to use quite a bit of product and most of us are unlikely to do that,” she says. For this reason, she always recommends that her patients use a dedicated SPF (read: an actual sunscreen) underneath any makeup that contains SPF. She also suggests using SPF products that have been specifically designed to mimic makeup while simultaneously protecting you adequately, such as SkinBetter Science’s SPF Compact, which is SPF 68. When used correctly, and provides light coverage while adequately protecting the skin.   

What to Know When Using SPF

Here, skin professionals share their best tips for how to use SPF properly. 

Use an SPF of at Least 30

As a general guideline, aim for a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF. “SPF of 30 or higher provides protection starting at 97 percent, which is effective for people of all ethnicities and skin tones,” says Adam Elshafei, MD, board-certified IM/Cosmetic and anti-aging medicine specialist and founder of Aesthetica Rejuvenation Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.

Don’t Believe Everything You Read or Hear

Another important thing to know is that just because something claims to be “waterproof” or “sweatproof” doesn’t mean that it actually is. In fact, Dr. Elshafei points out that manufacturers can no longer advertise sunscreens as waterproof or sweatproof because of this fact, which is why you’re likely to see products labeled as being “water-resistant” or “very water-resistant.” “Water-resistant sunscreen is only effective for up to 40 minutes while in water and very water-resistant sunscreen is effective for up to 80 minutes in water,” he says. 

Apply Enough and Reapply Often

“People generally don’t use enough sunscreen when they’re applying it, so I would say the most important thing is to apply more sunscreen than you think you need and reapply sunscreen every two hours,” says Debra Jaliman, MD, NYC-based dermatologist, assistant professor of dermatology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and author of Skin Rules. She recommends that those who sweat a lot or are swimming reapply more often than every two hours. 

Use Other Sun Protection

While SPF is a great asset in helping prevent sun damage, there are plenty of other measures that you can take in addition to sunscreen to protect your skin against UV radiation. “Staying cognizant of how long one is exposed to the sun and finding a cool place to let your skin cool down is important,” says Dr. Elshafei. “People should also wear protective clothing such as long-sleeve, thin-material shirts, hats that provide shade to the face, and even sunglasses to reduce the eyes’ sun exposure.”  

Look For Makeup With SPF

Wondering how to use makeup with sunscreen? The best thing you can do is look for makeup with sunscreen that’s easy to apply. Since you’re likely not using enough foundation to get any SPF benefit, try packing a setting powder with SPF to help with re-application throughout the day. Or, if you have drier skin, look for a makeup setting spray with SPF that you can easily spray on throughout the day. 

Of course, the best option is re-applying actual sunscreen. If you’re going to be out in the sun all day but also have makeup on, use a beauty sponge to gently press the sunscreen onto your complexion. It’ll give you extra protection without moving your makeup around.

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Plant-based eating has gained popularity in recent years for its health and environmental perks. But did you know that plant-based skincare boasts benefits, too? Not only can it help the planet, it can also help your skin. 

At this point in time, the cosmetic industry is one of the largest contributors to climate change. According to Zero Waste, a library of resources dedicated to helping the transition to a zero-waste world, 120 billion units of packaging are produced every year by the global cosmetics industry, much of which isn’t recyclable. 

Brands like HUM Nutrition and REN Clean Skincare are working to reverse this trend with initiatives like using Prevented Ocean Plastic. And while the process to reduce wasteful packing is underway, there are other aspects of traditional beauty products that aren’t environmentally friendly. The resources required to create potent synthetic ingredients, for example, can be heavily taxing on the environment. That’s where plant-based skincare comes in: using naturally potent plants can require less energy and resources, making it a more sustainable choice.

What’s more, plant-based skincare offers impressive benefits for your skin, too. “Plant-based skincare ingredients can deliver various benefits to help the skin,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Some of these ingredients may have antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free-radical damage, nourishing properties helping to moisturize the skin, as well as collagen-boosting benefits.”

The way these plant-based skincare ingredients are sourced matters, too. If they’re not responsibly- and sustainably-sourced, they could be contributing to environmental disasters such as deforestation, ecosystem damage, or unsafe human labor.

Luckily, there are many options that are safe and sustainable. Our friends at REN Clean Skincare walk us through their bioactive, climate-conscious skincare products. Plus, two board-certified dermatologists reveal their favorite skincare with plant-based ingredients for the ultimate glow.

What Are the Benefits of Using Plant-Based Skincare?

Plants Contain Multiple Powerful Actives

“A plant is rich in multiple active molecules, whereas a synthetic ingredient is usually just one molecule,” explains Camille Poggi, PharmD, scientific communications manager at REN Skincare. “So, you can have more benefits by sourcing your ingredient from a plant as on top of the molecule of interest you have other molecules and thus other benefits.” For example, Bidens Pilosa, AKA a blackjack plant, is rich in phytanic acid (a retinol-like molecule) but also rich in antioxidant molecules, so it will have more benefits than just retinol, she explains.

Plants Are Naturally High in Antioxidants

The most notable active ingredients found in plant-based skincare products are antioxidants. These are an essential part of any healthy skincare routine, according to experts. “Plant-based skincare products work to restore and strengthen your body’s cells by combating free radicals (also known as oxidants),” says Corey Hartman, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Birmingham. “The vitamins featured in plant-based skincare products are vital to maintaining the health of your skin: They support cell repair and can help decrease signs of aging.” That’s why HUM also packs powerful antioxidants into our skin-loving supplement, Daily Cleanse. It’s formulated with greens and natural detoxifiers to help clear the skin from the inside out.

Plant-Based Ingredients Can Be More Sustainable

Last but certainly not least is one of the biggest benefits of plant-based skincare: sustainability. “To produce synthetic ingredients often requires great quantities of chemicals and solvents (like water) as well as energy,” explains Poggi. “Whereas for plant-based ingredients, it sometimes only requires pressing the fruit or the seeds and that’s it.”

Poggi adds that synthetic ingredients have even more environmental risks. “Some synthetic ingredients can more easily be contaminated as well,” she says. “Plants have been used for centuries for their benefits, and all have very complex compositions that would be impossible to recreate synthetically.” 

Of course, plant-based skincare is only sustainable if it’s responsibly sourced. For example, REN looks for upcycled ingredients. “Some are upcycled from the food industry (like from seeds usually discarded after the juice and flesh are extracted) or from the fragrance industry (where the flowers are usually discarded after odorous molecules are extracted),” she says.

If you’re looking to shop for sustainable skincare products, check to see if there’s information about their sourcing practices. Many brands, like REN, work specifically with suppliers who follow sustainable guidelines. “It can be by helping local communities, by respecting very strict harvesting rules, or by offsetting their carbon footprint for example,” she says.

The Best Plant-Based Skincare Ingredients

So, what are the best plant-based skincare ingredients? Experts share their favorites, below.

Aloe Vera

“Known for its soothing and calming benefits, aloe vera can also be used to moisturize the skin, nourish the skin as well as provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits to the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. “It is often thought of to be used after a sunburn but is commonly incorporated into moisturizing creams, cleansers, serums, and toners to improve tolerability.”

Bakuchiol

“Bakuchiol is derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia and is thought to stimulate skin cell turnover, improve skin tone, texture, fine lines, and wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick says. “A great option for someone who is looking for a natural alternative to a retinoid, it is also thought to be a good option for those with sensitive skin or those who cannot tolerate a retinol as it is thought to be less irritating.”

Bidens Pilosa 

“Bidens Pilosa is rich in phytanic acid, which has a retinol-like action on the skin,” Poggi says. “On top of that, it is rich in flavonoids, providing antioxidant and soothing benefits.” You can find this powerful plant-based ingredient in REN’s Bio RetinoidYouth Cream.

Elderberry Flower Extract

This powerful plant is upcycled from the French fragrance industry where the seeds are usually discarded,” Poggi says. “It contains very strong antioxidant properties that will help neutralize free radicals that can trigger dark circles and puffiness,” she adds. That’s what makes it the star ingredient of REN’s Radiance Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream.

Grapeseed Oil

“This oil is known for its antioxidant benefits to help protect against free radical damage,” Dr. Garshick says. “Grapeseed oil contains polyphenols, such as proanthocyanidins, which serve as good antioxidants, in addition to vitamin A, C, and E.” In fact, Dr. Garshick says it can be added to sunscreens to boost photoprotection by stabilizing UV filters.

What’s more, it can soothe the skin. “It can also help moisturize as it contains linoleic acid, which can help to moisturize the skin, boost the skin barrier and has also been shown to be anti-inflammatory, which can help to reduce redness,” Dr. Garshick says.

Hibiscus

“Hibiscus has been used for centuries both topically and internally thanks to its antioxidant anti-aging properties,” says Dr. Hartman.  “It helps to reduce inflammation of the skin, increase collagen production, control oil secretion (and thus clogging of the pores), and hydrate your skin.”

Kelp Extract 

“Atlantic help is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, peptides, amino acid, vitamins A, B, D, E, K, carotenoids, minerals (calcium, sodium, iron, copper), essential fatty acids (omega-3  and omega-6),” Poggi says. “It contains the highest concentration in minerals of all algae and moisturizes, conditions, and helps protect the skin.” Atlantic kelp is also one of Dr. Hartman’s favorite plant-based ingredients, as it contains vital antioxidants that help protect the skin from UVA rays, daily pollution, free radicals, and other environmental stressors—helping to maintain skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles. (Psst: This powerful plant is found in REN’s sustainably sourced and packaged Atlantic Kelp & Magnesium Anti-Fatigue Body Wash, which we’re obsessed with!)

Sea Buckthorn

“Sea buckthorn is a berry that grows along riverbanks, seashores, and mountain slopes from sea level,” Dr. Hartman says. “The oil of the plant contains powerful phytochemicals and carotenoids that slow down the skin’s aging process. Its unique unsaturated fatty acids, such as palmitoleic acid (omega-7) and gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6), give sea-buckthorn oil skin regeneration and repair properties.” Discover this ultra-nourishing oil in REN’s Bio Retinoid Youth Concentrate Oil.

The Takeaway

Plant-based skincare has a multitude of benefits—both for your complexion and the environment. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all plant-based skincare is created equal. If you’re looking to make a sustainable skincare switch, make sure you look for brands that call out responsible sourcing and plant-based active ingredients.

And don’t forget that plant-based isn’t always beneficial. “Remember that just because something is plant-based doesn’t automatically make it good,” Hartman says. “After all, poison ivy is as natural as it gets, but no one wants to rub it on their skin.” Look for products that feature these eight powerful plant-based ingredients for the ultimate glow.

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Turn over any skincare product and you’ll likely be met with an ingredient list full of long words you don’t recognize. You might also sometimes notice labels break those words out into two different categories: active skincare ingredients and inactive skincare ingredients. But what exactly are active ingredients—and what do they do?

“Active ingredients refer to the key ingredients in a skincare product designed to target a specific concern or address a specific issue,” explains Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. “They are the main ingredients delivering an effect on the skin.” 

Since these ingredients are so powerful, it’s important to consult a dermatologist to understand exactly what they do and which ones to use. While you may be tempted to layer as many active skincare ingredients as possible, experts say that might not be the best decision. “More is not better with actives,” says Caren Campbell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in California. “The skin often needs time to adjust, so starting slow with actives like AHAs, BHAs, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide is a good idea.”

What are active ingredients in skincare?

Active skincare ingredients are the ingredients intended to treat or address a certain issue. “Skincare products often have several components: the vehicle, the actives, and the preservatives,” explains Corey Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Alabama. “The actives do the work that change the skin.”

Many skincare products fall under the category of cosmetics, which aren’t regulated by the FDA. But products with active ingredients are labeled and regulated differently. “When a skincare product aims to treat a disease like acne or dandruff, the product becomes a drug,” explains Dr. Campbell. “The FDA requires drugs to list active ingredients followed by inactive ingredients on the label.”

If active skincare ingredients are the main character, inactive ingredients are the supporting roles. They play an important role in the overall formulation of skincare products. “Inactive doesn’t mean the ingredients don’t have any effect; rather, it simply means they don’t have regulatory status as active ingredients,” Dr. Hartman says. “They’re often not the ingredients that define the product or the intended effect, but they still can play a role in the effectiveness of the product.” Shea butter in a facial moisturizer that also contains hyaluronic acid is an example because it hydrates the complexion.

Inactive ingredients in skincare impact the texture and quality of the product, making the formulation more cosmetically appealing. But they can also help with better active ingredient delivery as well as product stability.

What are common active ingredients found in skincare?

Adding active skincare ingredients into your routine can seriously improve your complexion. We asked experts to break down the most common actives in skincare to help you build the best regimen for your complexion.

Benzoyl Peroxide: You may recognize this active skincare ingredient. It’s a staple for those who have dealt with acne. “It helps unclog the pore and kills acne- and folliculitis-causing bacteria on the skin,” explains Dr. Campbell. It’s a tried-and-true ingredient for any unwelcome breakouts. Just make sure you apply it directly to the affected area, as it can dry out the surrounding skin.

Glycolic Acid: Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (also known as AHA) that exfoliates the skin. “Glycolic acid helps break the bonds between skin cells, which increases exfoliation and makes skin smoother and more even,” Dr. Hartman explains. It’s commonly used to help treat breakouts and even out skin tone and texture. Since it’s less drying than other acne treatments, dermatologists often recommend it. But it can also help with anti-aging. “The use of glycolic acid can help slow the breakdown of collagen in the skin and even stimulate new collagen production, resulting in firmer skin,” Dr. Hartman says.

Hyaluronic Acid: If you’re dealing with dry or dehydrated skin, hyaluronic acid is the active ingredient for you. “Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it helps to draw moisture in,” Dr. Garshick says. “This boosts overall moisture, helps with dry skin as well as plumps the skin, which helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.” Look for hyaluronic acid skincare products or pick up HUM’s Glow Sweet Glow, which contains the powerful active ingredient to boost your skin’s hydration from the inside out.

Niacinamide: Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a multi-tasking antioxidant. “It works with the natural substances in your skin to help visibly minimize enlarged pores, tighten lax pores, improve uneven skin tone, soften fine lines and wrinkles, diminish dullness, and strengthen a weakened surface,” Dr. Hartman says. “ Niacinamide also reduces the impact of environmental damage because of its ability to improve your skin barrier (its first line of defense)—plus it also plays a role in helping skin to repair signs of past damage.”

Salicylic Acid: “Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid, derived from willow bark that works to reduce acne and dissolve excess debris in pores,” Dr. Hartman says. “Salicylic acid penetrates through the lipid layers between skin cells and into pores to unclog them, dissolve skin debris, reduce skin inflammation and treat papules and pustules of acne.” It can also break the connections between skin cells to increase exfoliation and cell turnover.

Retinol: Retinol is a vitamin A derivative proven to help with anti-aging, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology. “Retinol is the single most effective component of a skin care regimen for prevention of signs of aging that is backed by science and research,” Dr. Hartman says. Regular retinol usage has a multitude of benefits: reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, collagen stimulation, a more even and smooth complexion, increased hydration, and prevention of breakouts.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is great for boosting your immune system when taken as a supplement, but did you know it can improve your complexion when applied topically? Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals that are caused by sun damage and pollution in the air (both of which speed up the breakdown of collagen). “Collagen production peaks at age 22 and decreases every decade thereafter, so it’s imperative to produce and prevent breakdown of as much as possible,” Dr. Hartman explains. It also inhibits melanin production in the skin, which helps lighten hyperpigmentation and brown spots, even out skin tone, and enhance skin radiance.

Which skincare actives should you be using?

Which active skincare ingredients you use is entirely dependent on your skin type and your concerns. “For someone interested in treating breakouts, the recommended active ingredients may include salicylic acid, retinoids, or benzoyl peroxide,” Dr. Garshick says. “For someone who’s mostly focused on an anti-aging skincare routine, it may specifically include vitamin C, a retinoid, and sunscreen.” 

In general,  a good rule of thumb is to focus on the trifecta of SPF, antioxidants, and retinol. “These three ingredients will cover most of the bases to prevent and correct the most common skin signs of skin aging and photodamage,” Dr. Hartman says. “If you have specific concerns that need to be addressed, it’s probably best to seek a board-certified dermatologist to better target your therapy and avoid wasting time and money on the wrong products.”

What skincare actives should you avoid mixing?

You may be tempted to apply as many active skincare ingredients as possible, but this can end up doing more harm than good. “When mixed together, certain active ingredients can lead to irritation or can reduce the potential efficacy of the active ingredients by rendering it unstable,” Dr. Garshick says. Since retinol can be drying, experts agree it’s best to avoid using exfoliants (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) at the same time, as it can cause irritation. Instead, try applying your retinol at night and the rest of your active ingredients in the morning (with sunscreen, of course).

To ensure you’re getting the most out of your active skincare ingredients, avoid applying an exfoliating acid and vitamin C at the same time, as this can impact stability. Other skincare actives not to mix include retinol and benzoyl peroxide, as benzoyl peroxide can deactivate certain retinols.

The Takeaway

Active ingredients target and treat specific skincare concerns. But every active skincare ingredient is different: some treat acne, others help with anti-aging, and others increase your skin’s hydration levels. Since they’re so powerful, mixing them can lead to irritation or decreased efficacy. That’s why it’s so important to seek out the help of a board-certified dermatologist. They’ll help you build an effective, efficient routine full of the very best active ingredients for your complexion.

Keep in mind that actives in skincare can take time to yield results. In just a few hours, hyaluronic acid boosts moisture levels and plumps your skin. But results from retinol can take up to six months. Consistency is key—stick to your active skincare regimen and you’ll see a noticeable improvement in your complexion.

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You’re likely already familiar with the health benefits of seaweed varieties like nori, wakame, and dulse, which contain highly concentrated doses of nutrients like iodine, iron, calcium, potassium, antioxidants, and more. Just like these properties have health benefits, they also impart their perks on your skin when used topically. 

“Seaweed is a superfood rich in vitamins, nutrients, and minerals,” says Brooke Babcock, an esthetician and Senior Manager of Education at OSEA. “Most seaweed varieties offer unique benefits.”

Learn more about the benefits of seaweed for skin, how to bring it into your skincare routine, and some of our favorite seaweed-containing products to try.

What is seaweed skincare?

You may be able to find a real seaweed wrap (read: long strips of actual seaweed!) on the menu at some spas, but you can get the benefits of seaweed for skin at home with products infused with seaweed.

“We infuse our seaweeds in skin-loving carrier oils such as babassu, avocado, and macadamia oils,” explains Babcock. “To create our Undaria Algae Body Oil, Undaria pinnatifida algae is soaked in barrels of botanical oil for up to six months.”

The power for seaweed skincare comes down to bioactive compounds found in seaweed, including phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, polyunsaturated fats, proteins, peptides, and amino acids that can be used as active ingredients, according to research. 

Benefits of seaweed for skin

“Different species of algae can provide a myriad of benefits, including anti-aging and moisturization,” explains Babcock. “For example, Undaria pinnatifida algae, which is found in several of our products, including our best-selling Undaria Algae Body Oil and Seabiotic Water Cream, is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, minerals, nutrients, and vitamins. It replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier and helps keep skin looking healthy by fighting free radicals,” she says. Laminaria saccharina, another type of algae found in OSEA’s Anti-Aging Sea Serum, is rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. 

In general, research has found a range of benefits of seaweed for skin, including:

Anti-aging

Free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage cells, can contribute to aging skin via oxidative stress. Our bodies become less able to fight off oxidative stress as we age, but research shows seaweed may help. One study in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that astaxanthin, an antioxidant derived from seaweed, had a protective effect on human cells against UVA radiation by reducing DNA damage. Further research also found that different marine algae compounds can play an antioxidant role.

Brown seaweed also contains a compound that studies show inhibits a type of enzyme that breaks down your body’s natural hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid helps skin retain moisture, but depletes with age, which can make wrinkles appear more pronounced and skin dry and less firm.

Firming

In addition to maintaining skin’s plumpness through hyaluronic acid, compounds in seaweed also promote collagen production and elastin synthesis. Collagen and elastin are both proteins responsible for the structure of your skin.

Hydrating

Polysaccharides found in seaweed can be particularly beneficial for moisturizing skin and helping to lock in moisture. In one study, polysaccharides from the seaweed Saccharina japonica were found to be even more effective at moisturizing than hyaluronic acid. Another study discovered an extract of Laminaria japonica improved skin moisture in study participants by forming a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss.

Brightening

Several species of seaweed may inhibit an enzyme involved in the creation of melanin, the pigment that gives skin color, research shows. This means seaweed can be an all-star ingredient if you’re looking to even out your skin tone or for a naturally brighter complexion free from dark spots, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation, 

Reduces acne and oil

Certain species of seaweed have antimicrobial properties that may fight acne-causing bacteria, shows research. Compounds from the brown seaweed Laminaria digitata were even discovered to reduce sebum production, meaning less greasy skin and a lower likelihood of acne.

How to incorporate seaweed skincare in your routine

Ready to try seaweed skincare for yourself? You’re in luck: “Seaweed pairs well with so many powerhouse ingredients, including vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid,” says Babcock, so you can find seaweed in a range of products, from cleansers and moisturizers to serums and oils. It’s also well suited for most skin types, so anyone can benefit.

“I always recommend focusing on keeping your skin hydrated and using products that support your skin’s moisture barrier,” recommends Babcock. “Without these fundamentals, active ingredients that target concerns like brightening or anti-aging won’t work as well.” 

Start small with one hero product that protects your skin barrier, like a gentle hydrating cleanser, or go big and overhaul your routine. 

Aside from products clearly labeled as containing seaweed, look for terms like “marine algae,” and “sea algae.”

Our favorite seaweed skincare products

OSEA Hyaluronic Sea Serum, $88

This all-skin-types serum is oil-free and super moisturizing. It packs in extracts from three different types of seaweed and contains three different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, designed to hydrate every layer of the skin. 

OSEA Seabiotic Water Cream, $48

If you love lightweight formulas, this one’s for you. Featuring nutrient-rich Undaria Seaweed, this weightless water cream provides 72 plus hours of deep hydration with a nongreasy finish. It also contains a prebiotic, which is good for the skin microbiome.

OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil, $48

Seaweed skincare doesn’t just have to be for your face. This body oil uses seven botanical oils, including açai, babassu, and passion fruit to hydrate even the driest skin leaving it silky-smooth.  Work this into your post-shower routine for soft, glowing skin all over.

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What is Skin Cell Turnover?

Skin cell turnover is the shedding of dry dead skin cells from the uppermost and outermost layer of our skin, known as the stratum corneum,” explains Vanessa Coppola, FNP-BC, a board-certified nurse practitioner and aesthetic specialist. Those dead skin cells are then replaced by healthy new cells, she adds, giving you that fresh-faced look.

The fact that our bodies do this is actually pretty amazing. “The skin is the body’s largest protective organ, so the body is constantly in the process of repairing it,” Coppola says. 

As for how quickly it happens, the turnover process happens at different rates on different parts of our body, notes Alexander Zuriarrain, MD, FACS, a double board-certified plastic surgeon. “For your face, it takes approximately between 40 to 56 days for the cells to replicate. The cell turnover for the body is between 28 to 40 days. In general, the human body is producing 3.8 million cells every second.”

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What Else Impacts Skin Renewal Rate? 

Lots of different factors can affect how quickly our skin regenerates, according to Zuriarrain. Some of the big ones include our general health, level of hydration, and age. That last one is a big one: “As we age, the cell turnover rate lengthens. For example, at age 18 the cell turnover rate is 14 to 21 days while at the age of 50 years old, it can take up to 60 to 90 days,” Zuriarrain says.

While you can’t fight the natural aging process, lifestyle is a really important factor here, says Natalie Aguilar, a dermatological nurse and licensed aesthetician. “Inflammation, stress, and diet play vital roles,” she says. “We can’t produce healthy cells to replace dying cells if we don’t have a healthy diet or lifestyle.” (HUM dietitian Jessica Bippen, RD even created this 5-day meal plan for skin repair and cell renewal to help you get started!)

What Does An Increased Cell Turnover Rate Mean for Your Skin Health?

There’s a reason so many skincare products and treatments promise faster cell turnover and skin renewal. “Increasing the rate of our cellular turnover can help promote a brighter and more youthful complexion,” Coppola says. Aside from those two benefits, increasing your skin cell turnover rate can also help with acne and aging concerns. 

Acne is often caused by a combination of factors, especially clogged follicles, Coppola says. Follicles get plugged up by an accumulation of cellular debris, aka dead skin cells and sebum, she explains. “Speeding up this process of cellular turnover can reduce the accumulation of dead skin cells and lead to clearer skin and a more even-toned complexion. 

In terms of age-related skin changes, cell turnover matters because it has a significant influence on the aging process, Zuriarrain notes. “The faster the cell turnover rate, the more youthful the appearance of the skin.” In particular, a faster turnover rate means your skin may respond better to sun damage by replicating cells more efficiently and quickly. “This can replace damaged cells with new cells and avoid further aging,” he adds. 

Truth be told, all skin concerns are improved by speeding and improving the quality of our skin cell turnover, Aguilar says. “Wrinkles, dry patches, pigmentation, acne, dullness, and injuries all brighten up and become smoother as the cells are replaced by healthier ones.” (Yes, you can manage acne scarring, razor nicks, and fine lines all by improving skin cell turnover!)

How to Increase Skin Cell Turnover Rate

If better skin is on your mind, there are many ways to increase your skin cell turnover rate, experts say. 

Exfoliation

“Exfoliation is key to helping improve the regenerative cycle of cellular renewal,” Coppola notes. That’s because it essentially speeds up the process of removing dead skin cells. There are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical exfoliation. 

Physical exfoliation usually happens in the form of a scrub or dry brushing, but it’s really important to choose the right exfoliant so that you don’t injure your skin, Coppola says. “You want to select a scrub that is very finely milled so that it will get the job done without causing trauma to the skin.” Likewise, if you’re using a dry brush, save it for your body, not face, and go easy. Be especially careful with things like dermaplaning.

Microdermabrasion is also an option for physical exfoliation. “Microdermabrasion is a controlled treatment that delivers a precise and uniform exfoliation,” Aguilar says. It’s usually done every 4-6 weeks, and you’ll want to visit a licensed aesthetician or physician to have it done.

Chemical exfoliation means using skincare ingredients that speed up the process of removing dead skin cells. Some of the best ingredients for this are beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) and alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid). “These acids work to break the bonds between cells, causing them to shed faster and in a more uniform fashion,” Coppola notes. 

A combination of the two methods may be best, but keep in mind that it’s is possible to exfoliate too much, so it shouldn’t be your only method to speed up skin cell turnover.

Retinoids and retinol 

Made up of vitamin A, retinoids and retinol are powerhouse ingredients. “Retinoids penetrate deep enough to stimulate collagen and elastin fibers,” Aguilar explains. Retinoids also increase the rate at which your body produces new skin cells, resulting in a faster skin cell turnover process. 

You can get some retinoids over the counter, but products like Retin-A (tretinoin) and Accutane (isotretinoin) are only available by prescription. Tretinoin is usually used to avoid fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation—all of which can happen with age, Zuriarrain says, while isotretinoin is generally used to treat acne. 

Hydration and exercise 

According to Zuriarrain, adequate hydration and exercise improve vascular blood flow, which can help decrease the signs of aging by boosting turnover. So hitting the gym (or the trails) on a regular basis and keeping a water bottle handy can make a difference. 

Get your beauty sleep

Turns out “beauty sleep” isn’t just an adage. You’ve likely heard that your body repairs and recovers while you sleep, but the same is true for your skin. Skin cell renewal is at a peak between approximately 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., as we’ve previously covered, due to a natural rise in levels of human growth hormone (HGH). Skin cells can actually double during this time, making it even more important to get your zZz if you’re going for glow.

Nutrition and supplements 

“There’s been a lot of research recently into the microbiome of the skin and the connection between digestive health and skin health,” Coppola notes. “Although no definitive evidence has been generated yet, some studies indicate a possible link between maintaining a healthy gut environment, such as with the use of probiotics, and the health of our skin and cellular turnover.”  

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“Essential fatty acids, vitamin c, glutathione, and zinc are wonderful supplements that aid in the way our skin repairs itself from the inside out,” Aguilar says. Antioxidants like ferulic acid and CoQ10—found in HUM’s Mighty Night supplement—can also help support skin cell turnover. 

Lastly, a healthy diet is the foundation of healthy skin. So it makes sense that good nutrition can help improve skin cell turnover, even if indirectly. “We want our new cells to be as healthy as possible,” Aguilar says. “Living a healthy lifestyle, sleeping adequate hours, eating healthier foods, and managing stress are all vital to a healthy physical canvas.” Not only will it help you look good, but it’ll also help you feel good.

FAQs on Skin Cell Turnover

What is skin cell turnover and why is it important?
Skin cell turnover is the natural process where old, dead skin cells are shed and replaced by new ones from beneath the surface. It’s essential for maintaining smooth, bright, and healthy-looking skin.

How long does skin cell turnover take?
On average, skin cell turnover takes about 28 days, but this process slows with age—sometimes taking 40+ days in older adults.

What factors can slow down skin cell turnover?
Aging, sun damage, dehydration, poor nutrition, and lack of exfoliation can all slow turnover, leading to dullness, breakouts, and uneven texture.

How can I support healthy skin cell turnover?
You can support turnover by using gentle exfoliants (like AHAs), staying hydrated, eating antioxidant-rich foods, and protecting your skin from the sun.

The post Why Skin Cell Turnover Rate Should Be Your Number One Skin Care Goal appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.

The shift in sex hormones that occur as women age (and even throughout a single menstrual cycle!) can impact everything from sebum production, barrier function, collagen and hyaluronic acid production, and more. 

The good news: Understanding how your short-term and long-term hormonal shifts influence your skin can help you target your skincare routine and lifestyle habits to support optimal skin health and appearance. Below, we cover the hormonal shifts you can expect to experience throughout your lifetime and simple, expert-approved strategies to help manage them. 

The Key Players: How 3 Different Hormones Affect Skin

Before we dive into how hormones shift throughout a woman’s life—and what that means for skin health—it’s helpful to understand how specific sex hormones impact your skin. As with most other cells in your body, various types of cells within your skin have receptors for different hormones, and the presence or absence of these hormones can lead to different skin manifestations.

While non-sex hormones such as cortisol (a stress hormone) can impact the skin, to an extent, we’ll hone in on the ones that make the biggest difference: estrogen, progesterone, and androgens. 

Estrogen

“Estrogen is key for the normal functioning of the skin as well as the blood vessels, hair follicles, oil glands, and our pigment-producing cells called melanocytes,” says Keira Barr, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and menopause specialist and author of The Skin Whisperer. “It is associated with collagen production, increased skin thickness, increased hyaluronic acid production, improved skin barrier function, maintaining skin hydration, reduced sebaceous (oil) gland activity, and improved wound healing. It also plays a role in modulating inflammation.” 

Progesterone

The effect of progesterone on the skin is less well defined, but, according to Dr. Barr, it’s thought to contribute to skin elasticity, pigmentation, and the increased circulation and sebaceous gland activity that is observed in the second half of the menstrual cycle. 

Androgens

Androgens, which are normally thought of as male hormones, can also impact women’s skin. These hormones, including testosterone, are produced in small amounts by the female body and play a role in oil gland production. When hormones are imbalanced—as can occur in women with PCOS and when women experience comparatively elevated androgen levels during menopause—androgens may also contribute to unwanted facial hair growth.

In your 20s and 30s

A lot can be going on in your 20s and 30s. Acne, which is often associated with adolescence, can still affect many women during this time period, and it can have a lot to do with the hormonal shifts that occur during womens’ monthly cycles. In fact, research shows that about 50 percent of women in their 20s and 35 percent of women in their 30s experience acne. 

But in addition to periodic bouts of acne, skin can also vary in its moisture content, sensitivity, and general radiance depending on the time of the month. Here, we break down the typical hormonal changes that occur throughout a menstruating woman’s cycle, how they affect skin, and what you can do about it: 

Menstruation (days 1-5)

Each menstrual cycle starts with menstruation, or your period. This takes place in the very beginning of the follicular phase. “During this phase, levels of estrogen are at their lowest, which translates to a decrease in skin hydration and vulnerability of the skin barrier to irritation and inflammation,” says Dr. Barr. “With both progesterone and testosterone also low, there is less sebaceous gland activity and oil production, contributing to skin dryness.”

Cumulatively, this can all add up to dehydrated skin that’s more prone to irritation and inflammation. According to Dr. Barr, this is why conditions like atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, and psoriasis, may be worse just before or during your period.

What you can do: Moisturizing with soothing and nourishing skincare ingredients is often your best bet. Opt for gentle cleansers and look for things like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, gotu kola, and sea buckthorn oil on ingredient lists, suggests Dr. Barr. Scaling back on abrasive exfoliants and products containing too many active ingredients, including topical retinoids and chemical exfoliants, may also help if you’re prone to irritation. Finally, drinking plenty of water and eating foods rich in omega-3 fats, vitamin C, and antioxidants can help ease inflammation and irritation, support a healthy skin barrier, and promote hydration from the inside out. 

Follicular phase (days 1-14)

After your period, the remainder of your follicular phase is characterized by increases in estrogen levels, which peak around day 14 (when most women ovulate). “This translates to a boost in skin barrier function, skin hydration, hyaluronic acid production, and collagen production,” says Dr. Barr. “Skin is typically smoother, calmer, and more radiant than other times of the month, as estrogen peaks at ovulation and progesterone is still low, which means those sebaceous glands are pumping out less oil.” 

What you can do: You don’t need to do much at all! This is a time to embrace your natural glow and take a break from makeup—but don’t forget your moisturizer with SPF—due to estrogen’s effect on pigment-producing cells, you want to be sure to protect your skin from UV rays, warns Dr. Barr. Using products with more active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (e.g. glycolic acid, lactic acid) and retinoids is usually better tolerated during this time of the month since skin barrier function is optimal.  

Luteal Phase (days 15-28)

Here’s when things can get a little…greasy. When you ovulate on day 14, there is a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which prompts a rise in progesterone and testosterone, and “these two hormones contribute to increased sebaceous gland activity and oilier skin, including an oily scalp,” says Dr. Barr. “Additionally, estrogen levels are low relative to progesterone, so there may be more inflammation, irritation, and disruption of the skin barrier, which may contribute to breakouts.”

In fact, 60-70 percent of women experience these mild premenstrual flares of acne. The lower half of the cheeks, the chin, and the jawline region are the most common areas for these hormonal acne breakouts, says Zenovia Gabriel, MD, FAAD, who specializes in hormonal dermatology. 

Towards the end of the luteal phase, estrogen continues to decline and progesterone decreases as well, transitioning your skin to that dryer, more dehydrated, inflamed state that can be typical during menstruation, as previously discussed. 

What you can do: If you notice that your skin is more oily and prone to acne, adding a toner after cleansing may be helpful. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, and witch hazel, which may help kill the bacteria associated with acne and accelerate cellular turnover. But don’t go overboard with products that strip the skin of oil, cautions Dr. Barr, as this could actually cause your skin to oversecrete oil.

Acne is also a very inflammatory condition, so nourishing your body with anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fats, vitamin C, and antioxidants may be beneficial, as well as scaling back on added sugars and dairy, since these have both been linked to hormonal breakouts. Getting good sleep, exercising, meditating, and connecting with friends and family are all activities that can help curb inflammation as well, says Dr. Barr. 

Other factors in your 20s and 30s

In addition to these “typical” hormonal shifts that most women in their 20s and 30s experience, other factors can affect hormones and thus skin health—namely, birth control pills and stress. 

Hormonal birth control comes in many forms, but often, doctors prescribe combined oral hormonal contraceptives—pills that contain synthetic forms of both estrogen and progesterone, especially for women struggling with acne, menstrual cramps, or irregular periods. The data shows that combined contraceptives, as a class, exhibit a pro-estrogen effect on the skin and reduce the production of androgens, making them helpful for these issues, says Dr. Zenovia. However, it’s important to note that once someone stops taking birth control, these issues will often reemerge as they don’t get to the root of any potential hormonal imbalances.

Your 20s and 30s are often packed with particularly stressful transition periods as well (think: entering the workforce, navigating new relationships, having babies, etc). Research has shown that psychological stress can negatively impact skin barrier function, which, in turn, may trigger or exacerbate eczema, psoriasis, acne, and overall skin irritation. This may be due to elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which is associated with inflammation and inflammatory skin conditions. So, anything you can do to curb the effects of stress—exercising, meditating, talking to a therapist—may help your skin, too. 

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone lead to increases in melanin stimulating hormone (MSH), which stimulates pigment cells called melanocytes. This, in turn, can contribute to darker moles, darker nipples, a darker vulva, and even melasma says Dr. Zenovia. Melasma during pregnancy is called chloasma. It affects about 45–75 percent of pregnant women and is characterized by patchy brown spots often occurring on the forehead, upper lip, and cheeks due to increased production of melanin by melanocytes.

For some women, pregnancy may also increase sebum production, which may or may not lead to acne. During pregnancy, the body also increases blood production by about 50 percent, which may boost circulation and contribute to an overall brighter complexion. Together, these factors may contribute to that dewy, rosy so-called pregnancy glow. 

What you can do: Pregnancy-induced melasma is directly stimulated and worsened by UV exposure, so it’s crucial to reduce your sun exposure, wear protective clothing, or use a physical (a.k.a. mineral-based) sunscreen, says Dr. Zenovia. If your melasma is minor, it will typically resolve postpartum. If you happen to experience acne, your options are a bit limited during pregnancy, but The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says it’s safe to use topical glycolic acid, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid.

In your 40s and 50s

Depending on your health and your hormones, your 40s might look a lot like your 30s. If you’re menstruating regularly, many of the cyclical hormonal fluctuations and recommendations above will still apply to you. Likewise, if you’re pregnant in your 40s, check out the tips above. 

However, for many women, their 40s are characterized by irregular periods and fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels that eventually lead to significant drops in these hormones. This transition period is called perimenopause, and once you’ve gone through 12 consecutive months without a period, you’ve officially reached menopause. Most women hit menopause between age 45 and 50, with an average age of 51. 

“When our hormones [estrogen and progesterone] diminish during perimenopause and postmenopause, the functions they perform to maintain the health and vitality of the skin diminish as well,” says Dr. Barr.

The skin is full of estrogen receptors, and when estrogen binds to those receptors, it stimulates the production of hyaluronic acid, which enhances hydration and plumps skin, as well as the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which contribute to skin’s firmness and resiliency. “But without estrogen’s influence, pores will appear larger and fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin becomes more prominent,” says Dr. Barr. In fact, research suggests that women lose around 30 percent of their collagen in the five years following menopause, so the changes can be quite significant. 

But that’s not all. There’s also a decline in sebum production and circulation that can alter the skin’s barrier, resulting in skin that’s dry, sensitive, and prone to irritation and inflammation, according to Dr. Barr. Skin cellular turnover (how quickly skin cells can replace themselves) also declines, which not only gives skin a generally dull appearance but contributes to slower wound healing and age spots. Skin also has a reduced ability to handle oxidative damage from sun exposure, which can increase skin cancer risk. 

What you can do: While there’s a lot that’s seemingly going wrong with your skin during this time, there’s also a lot you can do! First and foremost, due to your skin’s reduced ability to handle oxidative stress, using sunscreen daily is a must.

To battle dryness, you’ll also want to use gentle, non-foaming cleansers and products with soothing and nourishing skincare ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, gotu kola, and sea buckthorn oil, suggests Dr. Barr. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods rich in omega-3 fats, vitamin C, and antioxidants can also help ease inflammation and promote hydration. Some research even suggests that oral collagen supplements can improve skin’s moisture levels and elasticity. 

To support skin cell turnover and enhance collagen production, consider trying a topical retinol product, suggests Dr. Zenovia. Retinol increases the turnover rate of keratinocytes, which helps skin appear smoother and dewier, and helps unclog pores. Over time, research shows it can support collagen production in the dermis and inhibit the breakdown of collagen. However, retinol can be irritating for some people and it increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. For something gentler, consider a serum or cream containing the plant-derived ingredient bakuchiol, which supports skin cell turnover without increasing photosensitivity. 

The Takeaway

Your skin and hormones are connected, so as your hormone levels change throughout your life, knowing how those changes affect your skin can help you look and feel your best. Don’t be intimidated by these different stages—there are plenty of products and lifestyle changes that can help your skin thrive.

The post How Hormones Impact Your Skin In Your 20s, 30s, 40s, And Beyond appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.