Hops are commonly known for their use in the brewing industry to add flavour and aroma to beer. However, studies have shown that hops are also beneficial for skin health. As a natural ingredient, hops offer many advantages to the skin, making them an excellent choice for natural skincare. Read on and together we will explore why hops are good for the skin and how they are in natural skincare.
Hops are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from free radicals that can cause damage and premature aging. The antioxidants in hops can help neutralise free radicals, reducing the risk of damage and promoting healthy, youthful-looking skin. Hops are also a natural anti-inflammatory, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Hops contain compounds called humulones and lupulones, which have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. These properties can help prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin, reducing the risk of infections and acne breakouts. Additionally, hops are a natural source of phytoestrogens, which can help balance hormone levels in the body. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to a range of skin problems, including acne, dryness, and premature aging. By promoting hormonal balance, hops can help improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.
One way to incorporate hops into natural skincare is to use Oxygen Skincare products, the range offer hops-infused products, including cleansers, exfoliators, blemish gels, face masques, moisturisers, serums, and toners. These products can help nourish and protect the skin, reducing the risk of damage and promoting healthy, radiant skin.
Using natural skincare products as part of your skincare routine or acne treatment is increasingly popular as people become more aware of the potential risks associated with synthetic ingredients. Natural ingredients like hops offer a safer, more sustainable option for skincare, while still providing many benefits to the skin. By incorporating hops into your natural skincare routine, you can help protect and nourish your skin, reducing the risk of damage and promoting healthy, radiant skin.
Hops are a valuable ingredient for promoting healthy, radiant skin. As a natural ingredient, hops offer many advantages to the skin, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and hormone-balancing properties. Why not try using hops in your natural skincare routine and see the benefits for yourself!
Adult acne is a common skin condition that affects many adults, particularly women. It occurs due to the overproduction of sebum, which is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. This excess sebum can clog pores, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Adult acne can be emotionally distressing, as it can affect one's self-esteem and confidence. It often appears on the face, neck, chest, and back, which are areas that are highly visible and difficult to cover up.
There are several factors that can contribute to adult acne, including hormonal changes, stress, and certain medications. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy, can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, leading to acne. Stress can also contribute to acne, as it can increase the production of cortisol, a hormone that can trigger the production of sebum. Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or anticonvulsants, can also contribute to acne.
Treatment for adult acne typically involves a combination of topical treatments, as well as oral medications,
It is important for adults with acne to take care of their skin and adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent or manage acne. This includes washing the face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, avoiding touching the face, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.
Adult acne is a common and treatable condition. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, most adults can manage their acne and improve their skin health.
]]>As a teenager, it's essential to take good care of your skin. Not only does it help you look and feel great, but it also sets the foundation for healthy skin as you age.
However, many teens may not know where to start when it comes to natural skincare. In this blog, we'll discuss some tips and tricks for teenage natural skincare.
Know your skin type The first step in any skincare routine is to determine your skin type. Knowing if you have oily, dry, or combination skin will help you choose the right products and create a skincare routine that works for you. If you're not sure about your skin type, then read this how to work out your skin type
Keep it simple When it comes to natural skincare, less is often more. Avoid using too many products or trying too many new things at once. Stick to a simple routine of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. Look for products that are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances.
Use a gentle cleanser Cleansing is an essential part of any skincare routine. Look for a gentle, natural cleanser that won't strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid using hot water, which can dry out your skin, and instead opt for lukewarm water.
Exfoliate regularly Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and prevent acne. However, it's essential to use a gentle exfoliator and not overdo it. Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week.
Moisturize daily Even if you have oily skin, moisturizing is an essential part of any skincare routine. Look for a light, non-greasy moisturizer that won't clog your pores. Apply it daily to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Protect your skin from the sun UV rays from the sun can damage your skin and cause premature aging. Protect your skin by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it every day, even when it's cloudy or rainy.
Get enough sleep, getting enough sleep is crucial for healthy skin. When you sleep, your skin repairs itself, so aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night.
In conclusion, natural skincare can be simple, effective, and affordable. By following these tips, you can create a skincare routine that works for you and helps you achieve healthy, glowing skin. Remember to be patient and consistent, as it takes time to see results.
]]>What are your top three nutrition tips for clear, glowing skin?
Hydration – a simple but effective strategy for skin health! If you need to improve your water intake consider herbal teas on those cold winter mornings or get into a habit of keeping a water glass on your desk which visually prompts you to get up and hydrate every few hours or so. This is especially important if you work in an air-conditioned office which is very dehydrating. Another easy tip is if you take any supplements or medications replace the sip of water you need to swallow capsules with standing there and finishing a whole glass.
Omega-3 fatty acids – omega-3 fatty acid containing foods such as oily fish, nuts, seeds, olive oil and avocado help your skin to produce its protective oil barrier which aims to prevent infections under the skin surface which present as breakouts. You can of course take a supplement but if you include a food source of omega-3 each day you likely don’t need to! Dress salads with olive oil, add avocado to your morning smoothie and aim to include salmon as an evening protein source a couple of times per week.
Pre-biotics including vegetables, fruit, legumes and pulses – pre-biotics are the food source required to have healthy gut bacteria. While the science is very much still juvenile, we know that there is a link between gut health and many other body systems such as immunity and skin health. Make sure you are aiming for at least 5 serves of vegetables (a serve is a handful) per day and you can experiment with adding more legumes and pulses to your diet too. Easy ideas are hummus paired with your afternoon tea crackers, use black beans as an addition to your work day salads and you can replace mince in many dishes with canned lentils!
I’m coming off the pill after 10 years, what can I do to help my cycle to return?
Number one is to be patient with the process. It can take 3-6 months for your period to return after coming off the oral contraceptive pill as your ovulation cycle starts up again.
Eating enough in terms of both calories and carbohydrates is also important for ovulation and your cycle returning. Avoid fad diets, fasting and keto diets which can disrupt your cycle returning. Its simple really, your body will downregulate ovulation if it perceives there to be insufficient nutrition out there in the world to sustain new life so we need to make sure your body knows it is safe and well nourished! I also recommend that women track their cycle as it returns as for many, they have not had a true period for several years (some of my clients have been on the pill for more than 10 years). You may need to learn about what your monthly is really like – for example what is the level of discomfort your get during bleed days, how heavy are your periods, do you experience PMS and what is your average length of cycle?
I have post pill acne going on a year and a half, are there any supplements you would suggest?
Zinc works wonders for skin healing! I would recommend 25-50mg for a 6-month course and remember to take Zinc with food as it can cause nausea for some. Omega-3 supplementation would also likely be helpful and the research shows a dose from 600-1000mg can be useful. I would start with a lower dose as omega-3 supplementation can cause loose bowel motions!
What would be your perfect recipe for a ‘skin smoothie’ (full of lots of skin loving goodness)?
When building a smoothie, it is important to include protein and healthy fats along side any fruit choices. Protein and fat help to slow down glucose release from carbohydrates such as fruits and insulin is the hormone that follows glucose (and insulin can cause acne for many women). I recommend that clients add some of the following options to their smoothie:
What can we do to encourage ‘good’ hormones!
Ovulation is how females make Progesterone, who is very much a “good” guy when it comes to hormonal health. The only way to tell if you are ovulating is by blood tests or temperature tracking but experiencing a regular, pain free period is also a good indication (note you can still get a period without ovulating). Anovulatory cycles (a cycle where ovulation did not occur) can occur for many reasons such as in teenage or peri-menopause years, if you have a condition such as PCOS or if women are undernourished (restricting calorie or carbohydrate intake). Manging stress levels and making sure you are fuelling your body are both great foundations for healthy hormones!I’m 23 and looking at coming off my pill to give my body a break, where do you suggest I start?
Firstly, I would be thinking about whether or not you need to investigate alternative contraception options if you are currently taking the pill for contraceptive reasons. I would then get schooled up on the concept of a low-glycaemic index pattern of eating to help reduce the likelihood of post pill acne which can happen to many women. Starting a Zinc supplement would also be useful and even more so if you are plant based or vegetarian as you will have limited intake of Zinc containing foods.What is your favourite thing to do to de-stress?
It sounds cliché but moving my body is an active form of meditation for me. I start every day with a walk with my four-legged side-kick and running is my other great passion. I think it is important to move without additional stresses such as load music, podcasts that make me think I need to be more productive or even a running watch that is pushing me to run harder. When I go for walks or a run without music or a sport watch I call them “naked runs” – just me and my mind out for a jog.Everyone has a soft spot, what’s your go-to sweet or savoury meal you’ll forever love?
I am seriously addicted to peanut butter so that goes on anything and everything (I am talking on hot cross buns, fruit toast, apples, in my porridge. It’s a daily addition!). My love for a good date scone also runs deep and for me it is the definition of joyful food!see below for an easy (and fast!) guide to cleansing based on your favourite Oxygen cleanser. not sure which one is right for you? check out this blog post or get in touch with us so we can help.
love, Oxygen x
]]>Often we choose cleansers or toners in particular that are too harsh for our skin type, or we opt for oil free moisturiser when in reality we need more guts. While skin is so personal, and everyone's is different, there are a few main types that can make choosing skincare, or understanding your skins needs, a little easier. We're going to break down the main skin types and explain how you can best find out what one you are:
DRY SKIN
Quite common here in little NZ due to our climate, dry skin can feel quite tight after cleansing, and absorb hydrating products quickly. Drier skin types make also notice flakiness or dehydration. A lot of factors influence developing a drier skin type including genetics and environmental factors, but avoiding too much alcohol and increasing your water intake can also have massive effects on the hydration levels of your skin.
Often people with drier skin will over-exfoliate in an attempt to remove flaky, dead skin cells. Instead, you want to be using a product that exfoliates gently (without harsh scrubbing) and a cleanser that doesn't strip skin of its natural oils.
TRY: Crème Cleanser + Skin Toner + Night Crème
COMBINATION/NORMAL SKIN
Combination or normal skin types may notice excess oils in their t-zone (forehead, nose and chin) but drier skin on their cheeks and jawline. In particular if you are a makeup wearer, you may notice your foundation separating or wearing away on certain areas of your face throughout the day. Balancing out the needs of our skin can be a tricky job with a combination skin type, as you want a lightweight product for the oilier areas but something that has enough nourishment for the perimeter of the face, too.
Often with a combination skin, you may need to switch up or alternate products so you are catering to all of your skins needs, especially as the seasons change.
TRY: Crème Cleanser + Skin Toner + Ultimate Botanical Serum + Soothing Moisturiser
OILY SKIN
Oily skin has its benefits, with more supple skin and less fine lines being two of them. However oilier skin types are more often tasked with congested pores and breakouts. Oily skin tends to need light layers of products that are thin in consistency, and usually will need to use primers or mattifying makeup products for all day wear.
For this reason, we suggest a fresh, light cleanser that will help to draw impurities out of the skin and prevent congestion. Often these are foaming or have a gentle exfoliation aspect to them.
TRY: Teen Skincare Starter Pack
PROBLEM SKIN
An Oxygen speciality, problem skin could fall under any of the above categories but also be prone to breakouts or hormonal acne. Problem Skin is different for everyone and usually influenced by lots of factors including some that are out of our control (hellooo, hormones!).
Treating problem skin is our game, and we're proud to have one of our hero products, our 2 in 1 Cleanser, be scientifically proven to help prevent the spread of acne causing bacteria by up to 85% in within 48 hours!
TRY: Problem Skin Pack
NOW HOW DO I FIND OUT WHICH ONE I AM, YOU ASK?
The easiest way is to examine your skin throughout the day for oils, any concerns and signals of dehydration. A quick test would be to cleanse skin thoroughly in the morning and then wait approximately 30-40 minutes. Take note if any oils have formed around your t-zone, cheeks or chin. Similarly, observe how your skin feels. Often drier skin types will feel tight or 'parched' shortly after cleansing, whereas oilier or normal skins produce more oil and therefore don't feel as dehydrated. After another 30 minutes, if significant oil has formed you are more likely to have oily skin. Anywhere in between and we would pop you in the combination/normal skin category.
We hope this has helped you in deciphering the ever changing world of skincare, and as always, we're only an email or DM away via our socials!
Love, Team Oxygen x
]]>Anything that promotes a healthy circulation (even just a light 30 mins a day) contributes to healthier, glowing skin. Increasing your blood flow and getting that heart pumping helps to flush cellular debris out of the skin and carry fresh nutrients to our body's largest organ.
We've put together some of our favourite tips for getting the most out of your workout and making sure your skin thanks you as much as your muscles will!
Especially when exercising outdoors, SPF (at least 30+) is absolutely vital to protecting your skin from NZ's harmful UV rays. Apply over your moisturiser in the morning and reapply as the day goes on. Remember that post-sweat you'll also need to apply again. We love a good natural product and this Coola one smells delightful, too!
Properly remove all makeup to allow your skin to breathe as you sweat. Breaking a sweat is amazing for a multitude of reasons but it's best done fresh faced! Cleanse with Creme Cleanser (the best for a gentle makeup removal) and a warm face cloth if you're hitting the gym, or if you're on the run, a microfibre cloth (we love NZ brand, Take It Off) and some water helps to get all of your foundation off.
Even more importantly than cleansing before, is cleansing after. Whether you've been at a light yoga session or run a marathon- you have a cocktail of sweat, dirt, oil and residual skincare wrecking havoc on your face! Cleanse ASAP to start fresh and clear your pores of anything that could harvest bacteria as the day goes on. We recommend using our 2 in 1 Cleanser if you're struggling with problematic skin- pair this little natural with a clean face cloth and tepid water. In terms of the remainder of your routine, keep it pretty simple (and save any actives for night time!). A few sprays of our Skin Toner and then the appropriate moisturiser for your skin and you're away laughing.
DRINK UP! Get a good, eco friendly water bottle as your bestie and sip on this before, during and after each work out. Water helps flush toxins out of your body as well as keep your epidermis (the top layer of your skin) hydrated and elasticated!
Armed with those four top-tips, a boost of endorphins and a happy healthy face, you've got yourself a great start to your day!
Until next time,
Team Oxygen x
]]>We were lucky enough to have the beautiful Grace Mora give us her insights on 10 top foods that have proven beneficial in healing problematic skin issues from the inside out.
Settle in with a nice hot cuppa because this may be a little lengthy but it is well worth the read and super easy to put into your daily routine, one ingredient at a time, Grace gives amazing pointers on how to incorporate each one. Enjoy!
Our skin is a reflection of both our inner and outer health and whilst many factors such as genetics and lifestyle influence the health of our skin, what we eat has such a profound effect as our skin is the last organ to receive nutrition in the body, yet the first to show signs of imbalance or nutrient deficiency. When we have naturally glowing skin, it's usually a good indicator that we are healthy - the same goes for when we see symptoms of unwanted skin conditions, there is often an underlying cause from within. Eating the right foods will not only promote healthy skin but can help prevent skin-related conditions.
Try adding in at least one new food from the following list each day over the period of 10 days and notice the difference not only in your skin but your overall health.
Avocado
Avocados are packed with hydrating healthy fats, protein and nourishing vitamins that support healthy skin. They do wonders for locking in moisture in the outer layers of the skin, making it soft, supple and hydrated. They also have a host of skin protecting antioxidants, including beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E, great for preventing wrinkles and slowing the visible signs of aging.Essential fatty acids are a key element to naturally healthy skin, but your body doesn't make them on its own so you need to get them from the foods you eat. If you are lacking these essential fatty acids, you may have suffered from dry, dull, inflamed, irritated or even acne prone skin to name a few.
Tip:
Avocados have a rich creamy texture and are versatile in many recipes. If you struggle with the texture, try adding ¼ of a medium avocado to a smoothie for a creamy texture or get adventurous and add avocado to make a delicious raw chocolate mousse.
Blueberries
Blueberries and many other berries are antioxidant-superstars when it comes to supporting the skin and protecting it against oxidative damage. The antioxidants and phytochemicals found in blueberries help to neutralize free radicals, which can be damaging to skin cells. They are also rich in fibre, vitamin K, manganese and vitamin C - all essential for overall health.
Blueberries are a great low-calorie, highly nutritious breakfast, snack, or dessert. Try adding a handful to smoothies, stir in porridge or top with granola at breakfast time for an extra burst of antioxidants and fibre.
Tip:
Try to buy organic if you can, as berries are often sprayed with high amounts of pesticides. Buying frozen is a great way to save money and they can be just as nutritious.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are at the top of the list when it comes to superfoods and for good reason. The reason they are so beneficial is due to their omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin E and high amounts of fibre. The role of fibre in the body is so profound. It plays a key role in the regulation of your digestive system and bowels. It facilitates the removal of waste and toxins from the body and If you suffer from constipation or lack enough fibre through your diet, chia seeds are a great way to boost fibre.
Tip:
Chia seeds can absorb up to 10 times their weight in water. A great way to prepare chia is to soak the seeds for a minimum of 15 minutes or overnight. Try making chia pudding for breakfast by soaking 2 tablespoons of chia seeds in 1/2 cup almond milk (or other plant-based milk of choice) along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and vanilla. Allow them to absorb all of the liquid and become a gel-like consistency, top with blueberries, sliced banana, a sprinkle of granola and some flaxseed oil on top (optional).
Fermented Vegetables
Cultured and fermented vegetables are fantastic for gut health and offer an array of beneficial bacteria. Maintaining a healthy gut and consuming probiotic-rich foods regularly helps keep our digestive system healthy which in turn allows us to effectively absorb and assimilate the nutrients from the foods we eat. Simply put - the health of your gut determines the health of your entire body. But it doesn't stop there, it's just as important to feed the good bacteria with plenty of ‘prebiotics' which come in the form of foods that are high in fibre (particularly the non-digestible kind) found in fibre rich fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, beans and legumes.
Tip:
Adding natural probiotics to your diet can be easier than you think and some of the foods that contain probiotics include; sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, kombucha, yogurt, kefir, and apple cider vinegar. It can be as gradual as a spoonful of sauerkraut with a salad at lunch or a kombucha instead of soda or alcohol. You can also take a daily probiotic supplement to help replenish and maintain a healthy inner ecosystem.
Flaxseed Oil
Considered the ‘Beauty Oil', flaxseed is one of the best foods for healthy and glowing skin. What makes flaxseed oil (also known as linseed oil) so special is that it is loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The role of these fatty acids includes supporting brain and heart health, decreasing inflammation, and supporting healthy hair, skin, and nails. Flaxseed oil is great for moisturising the skin from the inside out and contributes to hydrated, plump, supple, smooth and glowing skin.
Tip:
It has a nutty, sweet flavour and can be added to smoothies, salad dressings, poured over granola or taken by the spoonful. 1-2 tablespoons daily are all you need. It's best to purchase an organic, cold-pressed flaxseed oil and it must be stored in the refrigerator to retain freshness and avoid oxidation.
Ginger
A powerful anti-inflammatory food that contributes to a wide variety of health benefits. The key property of ginger is that it is a powerful anti-inflammatory food, meaning it helps reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is one of the main causes of skin conditions and ginger could benefit those with particular skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, eczema, psoriasis, or an uneven complexion.
Tip:
A simple way to enjoy the benefits of ginger daily is to make a tea from freshly sliced ginger or by squeezing grated ginger into a glass of warm water with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.
Leafy Greens
Leafy green veggies are nutrient powerhouses. Packed with vitamins C, A, K, B6, folic acid, potassium, calcium, and iron as well as a range of phytochemicals, they help rid the body of possible harmful compounds and toxins making them a great food to support our bodies natural detoxification mechanisms. Spinach and kale are specifically rich in chlorophyll, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that will leave your skin glowing.
Tip:
Include a diverse range of leafy green vegetables in both their raw and cooked form such as spinach, chard, kale, silverbeet, watercress, and rocket, to name a few. Try adding some finely chopped kale to salads, soups or stir-frys or a mixture of baby spinach and romaine lettuce to your smoothies. I find the easiest way to consume more green vegetables is to either juice them or blend them. The amount of greens that you can pack into a single glass is often more than most people eat in a week. You will notice how you feel after having a green juice or a green smoothie.
Lemon
Lemons are low in sugar and full of vitamin C which is great for neutralizing free radicals and boosting collagen production, keeping your skin looking fresh. Lemons also help support the immune system, aid digestion and liver detoxification, repair skin, promote healing, , and are also known to reduce appetite and cravings making them a great addition if weight loss is a goal. Drinking warm lemon juice with water in the morning aids digestion and encourages the production of bile helping to flush out toxins and hydrate the body. One important thing to note is that when lemon juice comes directly in contact with teeth, it can ruin the enamel so make sure that you consume it diluted and rinse your mouth with pure water after drinking.
Tip:
Try adding fresh lemon to water or herbal teas or squeeze half of a lemon into a glass of warm filtered water first thing in the morning.
Papaya
High in vitamins C and A, along with fibre and other healthy plant compounds. Once again, Papayas are wonderful for fighting inflammation and free radicals in the body due to the powerful antioxidants. The vitamin C and lycopene in papaya protect skin and may help reduce these signs of aging. Additional health benefits of papaya include improving digestion, supporting heart health, reducing cancer risk, alleviating constipation and other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Tip:
Papaya is an incredibly versatile fruit and the best way to eat them is with a squeeze of lime juice. You may also like to add to smoothies, salads, desserts, and breakfast.
Salmon
Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, potassium, selenium, and Astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is an antioxidant found in salmon that benefits the heart, brain, nervous system and skin health. In one study, 44 people with sun-damaged skin who were given a combination of 2 mg of astaxanthin and 3 grams of collagen for 12 weeks experienced significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration.
Tip:
Today, a lot of the salmon we eat isn't caught in the wild but bred in fish farms. One concern with farmed salmon is just like any animal product, you want to ensure you are buying salmon that has been ethically farmed or fished. Sometimes, farmed salmon are fed antibiotics and red dyes so it is important to research the origin of your salmon and choose one not bred in polluted waters or fed anything you wouldn't want to be eating. If you choose wild salmon, best to choose one that has been sustainably caught.
How many of the above foods can you incorporate into your day?
Thank-you to Grace for this informative and helpful article - be sure to comment below and let us know your favourite foods for healthy, glowing skin.
]]>]]>Be sure to take a look at our full problem skin range which includes all the products designed to gently soothe, protect and nourish your skin, giving you relief from inflammation and irritation. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions concerning your personal situation.
Feeling like your eyes are drying out with the aircon & heaters being ramped up for the season? check out our top tips in eliminating dry and irritated skin around the eyesuntil next time,
Liv x
This is the time of year to take a breather, calm that inner diva & stop rushing because todays a darn keeper.
All of a sudden we've landed in November with December in our sights, who knows where this came from, i’m sure I was just preparing for winter to arrive so I could work on my summer bod (because summer bodies are made in winter right?) well somehow we're here & my gym membership has been used about as many times as you've cleaned your room this year which means I understand 100% that it is hard not to feel rushed and out of time all of a sudden.
As the year comes to an end some of you are planning a long awaited OE, others are probably hoping they’ve picked the right university, or perhaps the right career path. Meanwhile the younger version of you will likely be feeling the pressures of those first summer jobs or looming NCEA results to map out the next year at school! It's just that time of year where no matter your age, your foot size or the amount of followers you have on the gram... the end of one year and the beginning of the next always brings the old 'am I doing the right thing?' thought train flooding on in.
Don’t rush those summer sun cocktails because I tell you now, the only rushing you’ll be doing the next day is too the supermarket for some powerade, panadol & endless frujus - and nothing about that is living on a budget. Just sip those pinás and drink that water because tomorrows possibilities are just as worth it as todays enjoyment.
Get yourself up 20 minutes earlier and establish a morning routine to start your day with a sense of calm... EAT YO DARN BREAKFAST GAL that metabolism will not start itself and your energy will not appear from thin air - yes i'm talking to you, the one still lying in bed 15 minutes before you start work and the one complaining on your lunch break how tired you are from your hectic part time, working gal lifestyle!
Sometimes all it takes to make yourself feel like you have your life together is some consistency and small accomplishments in each day. Take a walk each morning, hit the gym, meet a friend for coffee or read your news feed while eating the latest acai bowl recipe from insta.. whatever gives you a moment to breathe - do that, thats your jam. Faking it until you make it is actually a thing in this instance...
Don’t rush out the door to the beach today without saying good morning and good day to those around you, while you always need to look after #1 (yes thats you in the mirror you beautiful thing!) it also takes 30 seconds to acknowledge those around you and make their day that little bit better through simply acknowledging they're important,
you do care - so show it!
Appreciation is where you can always find happiness in times of anxiety and nerves, so take a moment to look around you, look within you & appreciate something that brings laughter to your life today. Pause, reflect & believe that what comes next will pan out how it should... just don't rush, stop and smell them pretty roses because someone has taken the time to grow them!
In todays society we are constantly thinking about what comes next, how we can better what we're doing today or how we can get to where someone else is on their news feeds. This summer is yours, not theirs so form your own opinions, create your own future and live your own days doing things that fill you with confidence.
There is no doubt you’ve read it, heard it and seen it with your own eyes, that the skin is the human bodies largest organ. It protects you, holds you together and dictates how you look and feel on a daily basis.
The amount of times I have stood in the supermarket and tried to justify getting a chemically enhanced product for a few dollars less, or decided I’d treat myself to an expensive product because it must be ‘good’ if it costs that much, is slightly ridiculous.
Until, I came to the realization that the skin has the capability to protect your entire body, produce its own collagen, replenish its outer layer to look fresh and revived and it even houses the blood cells that circulate throughout your body. So instead of worrying about purchasing expensive products that could influence production of all these things, why not focus on reducing the external factors and products that impair the skins own ability to protect and regulate them itself?
As it turns out the skin isn’t just one layer on the outside of the body that keeps our bones from popping out. It actually has three important layers; the Epidermis, the dermis and the Subcutaneous tissue. The epidermis works like a protective big brother or sister (only they are not so easy to shed at times) this layer largely effects the appearance of your skin and is what we shed so often – fun fact: apparently, that dust around your household is in fact made up of almost 50% of shed skin cells (UGH!)
The dermis is the thickest of the three layers and holds all of the collagen and elastin making cells (all those great things that help keep the fine lines & wrinkles away), it also houses touch receptors, hair follicles and blood vessels.
The deepest layer is the subcutaneous layer which is made up of collagen and fats which help absorb shock and protect your internal organs.
So in theory, as the top layer works to fend off the free radicals of everyday life, the middle layer uses blood cells to regulate your temperature and it houses our hair follicles and oils which are there to keep your skin glowing and healthy, while being the interceptor of senses like touch and pain. Meanwhile the third layer protects the important stuff like the organs we need to keep going on the daily.
I found a cool fact on the internet one day when I was self diagnosing an allergic reaction (still not officially an allergic reaction but near enough) that your body renews its top layer of skin completely over an average 35 day period, so by the time your 20 you have lived in around 200 cycles of skin.
As it starts to make sense how the free radicals around us externally impact our overall wellbeing, it can get slightly daunting in prioritizing what exposure is more important to avoid than others so here is a couple of pointers:
Get rid of the junk . Our pores provide a direct exit for unwanted chemicals and toxin build up in the body, if these are congested and blocked it prevents the skin from performing this function leaving all these nasties present in our flowing blood stream. Make sure you are constantly keeping your skin free of product, dirt and sweat build up to prevent the exits from becoming a dead end.
Use natural and nourishing products where your body has a high exposure to that product. For example; bathing products, body lotions/powders, moisturisers, pretty much anything you apply and leave on you for a long extended time.
If you’re ever unsure of why a product is causing your skin to act a certain way, make sure you get in touch with us so we can help you tailor your everyday skin habits to what works for your skins needs.
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I was out and about visiting some of our stockists the past couple of weeks and one of the main questions i've been asked is, what makes us different from all the other natural skincare brands in New Zealand. This is such a valid question, the amount of time I have spent standing in stores wondering what to buy, asking myself why one brand would work better for me than another is crazy.
(that was until my Mum created the Oxygen range of course)
So other than being an absolutely awesome range, free from chemicals and nasties, what does makes us different?
I could reference some top scholars, throw down some great references and confuse you with the growth process & science behind the hop, but i'm not here to boggle you down with more info needed than that uni assignment or insurance claim you have sitting on your desk...
So lets stick with what matters - how does the hop benefit you and your skin?
The NZ Hop extract has properties that help protect, soothe, and revitalize our skin, while decreasing blood vessels. This extract aids in producing a softer and more supple skin through improving collagen production, delaying wrinkles and reducing dark spots while having a strong toning effect. The extract not only possesses two potent antibacterials but hops also contain anti-inflammatory tannins as well as natural plant estrogens that promote hormonal balance.
Hops have a strong calming effect which is why you often have to wake Dad up to stop his snoring on the couch 5 minutes into Coro Street after a couple of brews!
Anti-inflammatory:
A bitter principle in the hop are the humulones - these can have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and decrease surface blood vessels. We have seen this is particularly beneficial in our range for those of you with problematic skin conditions, the hop is helping to reduce the heat and redness in the base of acne and blemishes while also helping with conditions like rosacea.
Antiseptic properties:
The extracts of Hops are rich in several compounds that make it an effective cleanser and antiseptic, it has shown to prevent five of the major acne causing bacteria.
Whats better than getting rid of acne quickly? Preventing it in the first place!!!
Age delaying properties:
The Xanthohumol found in the Hop is known to restrain elastase and matrixmetalloproteinases. (I promise you, I tried to google easier names to explain these enzymes to you all but these are their names and that would be like me trying to change your name - it would be just rude!) Lets focus on the positives here, these enzymes in our skin are a significant cause of skin aging because they break down collagen and elastin fibres. When good ol' Xanthohumol comes along from our friend Mr Hop this decreases these enzymes defence, meaning that collagen and elastin levels go up to begin improving skin structure... GOODBYE WRINKLES
Suffering from problem skin? read more about how effective our range has been for others over on our relieving problem skin blog
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Hi i'm Liv Riley-Oldham, daughter of CEO & founder Alana Riley, Niece of Office Manager Jacqui Oldham (I got both of their last names to prove it, lucky me!) and sister of Oxygen Pup Maddison, Oh and I work here now!!
I know what you're thinking, how on earth do I ever call in sick when my mum, who also happens to be my boss, views my 3am SnapChat stories & everything I get tagged in on Facebook? lets just say sick days don't come easy over here!
I recently came onboard at Oxygen and have decided we need to shake things up a little over here on the blog, kind of like a personal trainer pre-summer. As a business we grow with time and so too does the story and the team behind the name. From here on out I want to bring you a fresh documentary of all the things that keep us passionate about what we do and how we do it, not to mention how Aunty Jacqui gets through daily life organising this Mother, Daughter duo. Be sure to let me know if there is anything in particular you want to see from us, live or blogged!
Many of you would have seen that some of the team here at Oxygen took a rather exciting trip over to Hong Kong last month.
We managed to trade in the cold wintry ways of New Zealand for the sticky humidity and random down pours of Asia. Don't get me wrong I was extremely happy about this tanning and shopping opportunity but I felt my hair, skin and energy levels decide to cause chaos the second I got off the plane.
Let me paint you a wee picture, on our first morning in Hong Kong for the 'Natural & Organic products Asia' trade show we got up feeling all refreshed and ready to show the world what we are all about here at Oxygen Skincare NZ. Phillipa and I cleansed, toned and moisturized as per usual, made ourselves look presentable and off we went. We stepped outside the hotel and I felt my freshly straightened hair have a laugh as the humidity hit me square in the face. We then ventured over to Hong Kong island which consisted of a ferry and a short walk, probably a 15min trip at the most! It's fair to say by the time we got there we looked like we'd been dragged through a bush backward with frizzy hair, and our freshly done make up looking like the morning after a big night out.
I set out to make it my mission to figure out how the locals all turned up looking fresh, calm and collected every day when their journeys usually included a lot more walking than tourists like us who enjoyed the luxury of the odd taxi. During our time at the expo a lot of local distributors and retailers sampled our products and made plenty of positive comments about the Oxygen range. Two products in particular stood out though, the Purifying Honey Masque and our Ultimate Botanical Serum, it didn't take me long to figure out why. In a country where 35•c and 79% humidity was our daily norm, your skin starts to feel like it has a constant layer of oil over it. I, myself have normal to dry skin and even I felt the oily areas like my chin, nose and forehead start to work in overdrive.
The Ultimate Botanical Serum was one of our most loved products in Hong Kong and from the feedback we got it was clear that this was the case because of two characteristics in particular. The fresh smell of the Organic Camellia oil paired with the light and fast absorbing texture of the serum made the product appealing in an environment where heat was a factor, it made for a pleasant alternative to oils which can sit on the surface of the skin for hours before fully absorbed. By day two I replaced my night time moisturizer with the Serum, it meant that I wasn't sleeping with anything too heavy and my oils balanced themselves out naturally.
Our Ultimate Botanical Serum comes in a glass container with a dropper lid and you only need one or two drops. The product comes out looking as clear as an oil, but when you rub it into the skin the texture changes to a very fine moisturizer in which your skin absorbs quickly. The Organic Camellia oil in this serum has incredible penetrating properties which help suck and retain all the moisture to the deepest layers leaving your skin feeling supple and smooth. The Vanilla oil not only smells absolutely delicious but it helps neutralize the threats of day to day wear and tear and protects the skin while stimulating its repair.
My life saver on the trip was my PH toning mist, in fact I think I might ask this product to marry me. I used it on my arms, my feet and of course my face, all day. It relaxed the aching in my feet from standing on concrete for 10-12 hours a day with the cooling sensation and scent of the mandarin, and calmed the heat rash on my arms from the humidity. It didn't disturb my make up either which was a bonus because I sprayed it over my face to liven myself up thanks to that mandarin again and kiwifruit! I would recommend to carry one of these babies in your handbag anywhere and everywhere. Not only is it great for freshening up but also, all the good wee vitamins that we pack in there help your skin regulate its natural PH levels which calms down irritation from both dry skin and oily, blotchy skin.
Now, I know I've missed out the famous NZ Manuka Honey Masque today but I decided that this product is such a hero it deserves a post of its own. Keep an eye out and I PROMISE I will do a full write up on our Honey Masque this week.
Happy Sunday everyone xx
P.S check out our Facebook page for more photos, my computer decided to hate me today and wont let me attach them!
Livv xx
]]>Who of you out there are guilty of using extra concealer or foundation under the eyes to hide the dark circles of everyday life? Or using oily and chemical enhanced make up removers & wipes due to the low cost and ease of use? These are a few of many reasons why we can suffer from dryness and irritation around the eyes.
Your eyes are an extremely delicate feature of the body and the skin around them is much thinner than other areas of the face, meaning we need to do everything we can to help it retain moisture. However, where people go wrong is they apply so much product to add moisture that it clogs up the area under the eye, this then increases the chances of looking like you’ve been out until 4am the night before.
Every one person out there is different, you may have certain foods or products that increase irritation to your skin, you may have mild or extreme skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Coming into summer we have the added effects of over exposure to the sun and air conditioning at school, work, the mall etc. Its all about listening to your body and even noting down things that cause dry patches or sore redness, that way you can begin to learn what works and what doesn’t for you.
Firstly, Listen to your body
Our bodies are funny things, if they're not happy they like to be heard one way or another. For some it may be a sore tummy, for others it may be bags under the eyes, this is why noting things down can be so helpful in recognizing a pattern for the problems you may be facing. These are just a few of the reasons you may experience dryness, heaviness or irritation around the eyes.
Skin care and make up routines
One of the main preventable causes of irritation around the eyes for woman is the use of make up and the process it involves. Now i'm not saying you have to go make up free in order to have healthy skin (although this would help) because I, myself like to practice what I preach, but there are a few habits to get into which will work to improve the skin around the eye. As you may know we promote 100% natural products here at Oxygen and believe what your putting into your skin is what you will get out.
In times where your finding irritation some of my personal soothing remedies include:
Be sure to let me know if you have any home remedies
you think work wonders!
The Oxygen Skincare Ultimate Botanical Serum uses a combination of Organic New Zealand Hops, Camellia oil and vanilla to create a smooth product that treats your skin, leaving it feeling hydrated without an oily residue left sitting on the surface. I like to explain the application of this product as a three part process.
It goes on like an oil, rubs in like a moisturiser & absorbs quickly, leaving no residue on the surface of your skin.
The major benefits we pride this oil for;
- Reduction of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (oh heeeyyy!)
- Repairs skin damage from harsh free radicals like sun
- Hydration for the skin, leaving it soft and supple
- Encourages natural collagen and elastin production
-Great for everyday use, twice a day, under moisturizer, under foundation... no left over residues, no problemo's
The New Zealand Organic Hop extract generally known for adding taste to that refreshing summer (or all year round for our guys out there) beverage, Beer. Little did you
So putting the hubby to sleep on the couch might not be the only thing hops are good for after all!
Cold pressed from the seeds of the camellia tree (Camellia oleifera), Camellia Oil is said to be the ancient beauty secret of the geishas, creating the smoothness of their skin and the sheen of the samurai hairstyles. It has been recognized for centuries in Eastern Asia for its highly restorative and rejuvenating effect on skin.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
- A little goes a long way, so make sure you only use two drops at a time and add additional where needed - all our products are highly concentrated with the purest of ingredients.
- Use morning and night to be sure to get the best results possible. Our skin loves these natural oils so making sure we are giving it what it needs is essential.
Need a serum for your everyday routine? you've come to the right place
Livv x
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