The number of undesirable side-effects produced by traditional approaches to skin care that involve harsh chemicals makes a turn to natural, plant-based skin care seem obvious. But, does nature really hold solutions for conditions like acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation? And if so, which plants are most effective? Too often, the thought process involved in achieving ... Read More

The endogenous cannabinoid system is one of the most important physiologic systems involved in establishing and maintaining human health. Endocannabinoids and cannabinoids are connected to other body systems, which allows communication and coordination between different cell types. Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune ... Read More

Ingredient labels offer vital information about the skin care products used in treatments and recommended to clients. Beyond the label basics of product weight, directions, and skin types for which the product has been formulated, it goes without saying that the ingredients area is particularly important for its ability to point out active ingredients used ... Read More

Over the last few decades, consumer attention has turned toward natural solutions for beauty – especially when it comes to skin. Who wants to get plastic surgery, or deal with the negative side effects of chemical treatments – not many. But, consumers do want to look and feel better, so they seek natural, nontoxic alternatives. ... Read More

What is better for skin – natural ingredients or chemicals? It is a trick question. Take dihydrogen monoxide, for example. It sounds like an intimidating chemical, but it is just a scientific term for H20 - regular water. In fact, every substance is made of chemicals – even plants. That is because any chemical is made up of atoms and molecules, which can occur naturally or can also be synthesized artificially. Read More

Peptides have been around for many years, but they have gained more attention as scientists are discovering new possibilities of cellular heath in areas such as cancer, bacteria communication and DNA. Emil Fisher, noted as the father of peptide chemistry, was a German scientist and the 1902 recipient of the Nobel prize in chemistry. He ... Read More

The importance of proper nutrition and keeping the body fueled with vitamins is inarguable. Still, the dangers presented by vitamin deficiencies, as well as best practices for supporting the skin (and overall health) with supplements is not universally understood by each client. Thus, it is critical for professionals to understand how vitamins and supplements work ... Read More

Morinda citrifolia, a small evergreen tree plant with Southeast Asian origins, commonly known as noni, is known for its medicinal and regenerative properties. Although research on the topic is limited, noni is believed to have many benefits for the body and skin. Just one tablespoon of noni juice contains one percent daily value (DV) of ... Read More

Fulvic acid is not yet widely known or used in the skin care industry, but it is one of the most effective and healing ingredients available.   With a gentle pH of 3.2, fulvic acid can be taken internally. It can also serve as an acid peel, while healing and energizing the skin. A fulvic ... Read More

The root of the curcuma longa plant, known as turmeric, is a staple in Eastern and Asian cuisines. Turmeric is part of the ginger family. Its appearance, similar to ginger, has the familiar perpendicular roots and shoots that grow against the force of gravity, known as rhizomes. Today, turmeric is most widely recognized as a spice, but it is a plant that, for centuries, has been used for its healing and wellness benefits in the practice of Ayurvedic medicine. The heart of turmeric is curcumin, a powerful, antioxidant-rich polyphenol. Studies suggest that curcumin has the potential to treat and prevent a wide range of diseases, including providing relief of mild-to-severe skin conditions, such as psoriasis, acne, and eczema.   Read More