Skin Academy

Unlock the Secrets of Youthful Skin: Discover the Hidden Truth About Collagen, Aging, and Environmental Factors Did you know… Collagen and elastin in our skin starts to slow down by the young age of 25. As a result, our skin starts to feel dry, flaky while enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles become more visibly noticeable. While all of these subtle changes are inevitable, environmental factors like blue light, pollution, and UV rays can further stress out skin, speeding up the aging process.  Regardless of how old you are, it’s never too late - or too early - to take action and start taking care of your skin the right way. Tips in Preventing signs of aging: Make the switch to a hydrating cleanser When it comes to preventing aging skin, hydration is key. For supple, younger-looking skin, switch to a hydrating and gentle cleanser. Harsh ingredients like sulfate and parabens can strip your skin, so it’s always important to check the ingredients list. If you find a face cleanser infused with hyaluronic acid or collagen, this is your personal fountain of youth! SPF is more than just a beach day essential Consider a good sunscreen as non-negotiable. Not only does clean sunscreen prevent signs of aging, it actually helps reverse signs of aging. SPF also protects the skin from harmful UV rays, V light, blue light, pollution, and free radicals from the environment. Dermatologists highly recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.  Use Vitamin C serums every day A vitamin C serum creates a shield against environmental stressors that can cause redness, clogged, enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. “Vitamin C is a powerhouse for anti-aging,” says Jessie Cheung, MD, a dermatologic surgeon in Illinois and New York City. “Not only does Vitamin C protect from free radical damage to our DNA, but it also plays a critical role in collagen synthesis, it helps to brighten our skin by inhibiting abnormal pigment creation.”  If you already see signs of aging… Opt for a hydrating cream cleanser As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, leading to less hydration and a loss of elasticity. Add back deep hydration simply by switching to a rich, hydrating cream cleanser.  Exfoliate regularly! Exfoliation is an essential part of a healthy skin routine. By simply exfoliating, it smooths and polishes the skin, decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When you eliminate dead skin cells, you are exposing a new layer of skin that’s ready to absorb hydration, giving you a more youthful appearance.  Add an anti-aging serum to your daily routine Never underestimate the power of an anti-aging serum! Shop around for an anti-aging serum that’s loaded with skin-loving ingredients like Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Vitamin C offers a powerful (yet gentle) antioxidant to act as a face shield from environmental aggressors.   Leave room for retinol When it comes to anti-aging, Retinol is the most effective and proven ingredient at improving enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. If you haven’t started using this skin-loving ingredient, now is the time to start. “Retinols are the mainstay topical treatment for anti-aging,” says Dr. Campbell. “They have been shown to increase collagen production, increase hyaluronic acid in the skin, protect against oxidative damage, increase cell turnover, and decrease oil glands.”  When it comes to minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing puffiness under the eyes, and revitalizing a youthful glow to your complexion, it’s never too early to start a preventative routine in taking care of your skin!  Has switching up your skincare regimen worked for you? If so, we want to hear all about it! Share your do’s and don'ts in taking care of your skin below in the comments.

Surviving and Thriving: Coping with Stress and Anxiety During the COVID-19 Pandemic With the recent outbreak of COVID-19 (aka Coronavirus), it has left millions of people working from home, schools closing down, and public entertainment centers left empty. Most importantly, it has left grocery store shelves completely out of stock on household essentials, food, baby formula, toilet paper… you name it! There are so many sources of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic Coronavirus, and it’s completely normal to feel some anxiety when a global disease impacts every realm of your life - trust us, we’re on the same page! But there are healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety during this difficult time. Read along to l earn more from our relaxation-pros. We’re all in this Together There are dozens of updates about COVID-19 every single time we are on the internet, and even on social media. With the virus infecting at least 136,000 across the world, and 1,200 people in the US, it’s no wonder people are afraid and confused. During a pandemic, you might be feeling unsafe, have trouble sleeping, experience social isolation and distressing emotions. The most important thing to keep in mind if you are feeling extra anxious is: you are not alone. Although health officials have recommended social distance, you can still keep in constant contact with your friends and family by keeping everyone updated through Facebook or even by video chat. We are all in this together. Limit the News That’s right! You might be wondering why we recommend limiting the news when you are trying to stay updated with the virus. Yes, we all want to keep up to date, but when you have health anxiety, the need to check the latest updates can become compulsive, which can only lead to feeding your anxiety! Also, try a “news detox” by allocating yourself a time limit for watching or reading the news. Are you worried you might miss an important update? Ask a friend or family to contact you in case of an emergency situation to keep you informed. It’s all about protecting your positive mindset.  No Googling around here We’ve all done it - googling and browsing through symptoms we have, only to end up paranoid or anxious. Dr. Google is not your friend! Especially when you are suffering from health anxiety during this difficult time. It’s all about not feeding your anxiety! Stay away from Googling symptoms and searching for message-boards and forums. Remember, people, visit these when they have a reason to be concerned. Keep thinking positive. Just breathe From yogic breathing to grounding exercises, don’t underestimate the power of deep breathing. Try our team-favorite, the “Deep Calm” - this easy exercise has been called a “natural tranquilizer for the nervous system” to bring you calmness and relaxation. To begin, find a quiet room. Inhale for 4 seconds. Hold for 7 seconds. Exhale for 8 seconds. Try the Deep Calm breathing technique whenever you feel overwhelmed or anxious.  Treat yourself Anything to get your mind off the news and give you a little boost can help. It doesn’t have to involve you going out and spending money: you can cook yourself a nice dinner, bake your favorite pie while listening to your favorite artist, or even a hot bath with a lavender-scented candle.  Keep calm & wash your hands No need to drive to an overcrowded store just to find empty shelves! Keep washing your hands, keep your distance from others, use antibacterial wipes to disinfect your tv remotes, computer mouse & keyboard, your doorknobs, and especially your cell phone. Out of stock on antibacterial soap? No worries. You can create your own by mixing your favorite essential oil + distilled water + a few drops of rubbing alcohol. Search up DIY ways to create your own cleaning supplies and reduce the need to go into the public. Have your own secret formula to create cleaning supplies? Share with our eco-beauty community by commenting below!

Treating acne and blemishes can sometimes feel like a fruitless endeavor. When you’re scanning the skincare section, the ingredient lists seem so daunting and confusing. What is this twenty-letter chemical listed on the label? And how is it supposed on treating acne? We hear you - that’s why we always strive for clean, natural ingredients. In fact, did you know the secret to a clear complexion can actually be hiding inside some all-natural ingredients - some of which you probably have at home in your kitchen? It’s true, and we have five natural ingredients in mind for treating acne. 1. Tea Tree Oil You might already be familiar with Tea Tree Oil but if you’re not, allow this to be your introduction. It’s sourced from the tea tree, a plant that’s native to Australia. In its essential oil state, it’s loaded with antibacterial and antifungal properties. Also think back to what causes acne and other unpleasant skin blemishes - it’s a buildup of bacteria inside the pores. In addition, try applying Tea Tree Oil diluted in a gentle lotion directly to your face, or look for it as a key ingredient in acne treatments and makeup. 2. Aloe Vera Ever got a sunburn? While not great, it happens to the best of us. But that’s how most people become acquainted with the soothing and healing benefits of Aloe Vera. Also, this cooling gel comes from the spiky aloe plant. Not only does it feel naturally smooth and comfortable on your skin, it can help decrease redness and heal skin irritation. Aloe Vera is pretty easy to find - you can likely even find it in its natural state in the produce section of the grocery store! 3. Honey Yes, we know what you’re thinking: I’m fine with putting a drizzle of honey in my tea, but on my FACE? Bear with us here: Honey is actually incredibly beneficial as a skincare ingredient. Not only is honey filled with antioxidants, it’s naturally antimicrobial. That yucky bacteria that can cause an acne breakout? Honey will make short work of it. Not only that, honey can help moisturize dry skin and clarify pores, which ensures your newly-clear complexion will stay glowing and smooth. Want to work honey into your skincare routine? It’s easy to whip up your own weekly mask with a mix of raw honey and plain yogurt. Spread on a thin layer, let sit for a few minutes (while you relax, of course!) then rinse. There’s never been a more delicious way to treat acne. 4. Green Tea Enjoy a cup of green tea every now and then? You’ll be happy to hear that your daily cuppa can actually be the secret to the clear, acne-free skin you crave. The dried tea leaves are rich with antioxidants which can help clarify your pores and promote a smooth complexion. Try making a mask with green tea leaves and honey or Aloe Vera and apply for a few minutes up to twice a week. 5. Coconut Oil We make no secret of the fact that we love Coconut Oil, here at Emani. It’s the best natural moisturizer we can find and it does wonders for acne-prone skin. If your acne is triggered by overly dry skin, Coconut Oil might be the soothing moisturizer you’re looking for. But like so many of our other favorite ingredients, it also naturally fights bacteria. Collectively, our Emani Team always has a tub of Coconut Oil in the bathroom to use as a daily moisturizer - and we think it might work for you too! Have you ever tried any of these natural ingredients? Let us know in the comments below!

So you want to be a skincare guru, do ya? Maybe you’re constantly in an Instagram-scrolling, YouTube-watching wormhole of constant skincare content…but you can’t seem to get started. Maybe you’ve got a twelve-step routine…but it’s not going anywhere. We want to help you bring your glowing goddess skincare guru dreams to life. There are a few steps involved, but we promise you’ll be well on your way to making those dreams come true!  Becoming a Skincare Guru: Know Your Skin, Ingredients, Routine, and Inspirational Figures 1. Know your skin type – and how to treat it effectively. All the best skincare guru have a very intimate knowledge of their unique skin type and how to treat it. That means if you want to take control of your skincare, you have to know your own! A lot of people aren’t aware of their skin type, therefore they aren’t washing and caring for their skin correctly.  The easiest way to determine your skin type is to give it a wash - nothing fancy, just the mildest cleanser you have. Then wait. Give it a good thirty minutes and don’t put anything else on. That means no makeup, no lotion, no nothing. Once your thirty minutes is up, take notice of how your skin feels. Does it feel tight, especially when you smile? That’s a clear sign that your skin is dry. Examine your face in the mirror, does it look shiny? That’s a good sign your skin is oily. Are you noticing dryness and shininess? Then you probably have combination skin. Seriously, it’s as simple as that! Once you figure out your skin type, you’ll open things up to a whole new world. 2. Know your essential ingredients Now that you’ve got your skin type down, you’ve got to figure out what good stuff is going to make your skin happy. Natural ingredients are so important to the overall health of your skin, but choosing the wrong ones can be disastrous! For example, coconut oil is a super buzzy ingredient that a lot of skincare gurus have in their arsenal. It’s a great moisturizer for dry skin, but it might not be the best treatment for oily skin. Oily skin is better suited for lighter natural moisturizers like Aloe Vera or Shea Butter. Choosing the right ingredients to best treat your skin type will have you well on your way to guru status. 3. Know how to stick to a routine To be your own beauty guru, you may not need the overloaded, multi-step skincare routine you might see on social media or beauty forums. Above all, the best thing you can do for your skin is to find a consistent and effective daily skincare regimen that you can commit to. A good general rule is: Cleanser, serum, moisturizer, SPF, in that order. Start with these simple steps every day and ease into a routine. Another thing to keep in mind: It can take up to six weeks to start seeing improvement in your skin - nothing is going to happen overnight! Be patient, and start working in more advanced steps into your regimen as you get more comfortable. 4. Know who to follow Now that you’re well on your way to guru-hood, it’s time to spread your wings! Finding the right inspirational figures to follow on social media might require a little research. Be on the lookout for bloggers and YouTubers who have the same skin type as you - their routines will definitely be more effective. Be on the lookout for professionals too, sometimes estheticians and dermatologists have great content to follow. You can even start building your own community. Share your journey with skincare dedicated Instagram handle or YouTube channel of your own. You’re a skincare guru now! It’s time to show off! What steps are you taking towards your own skincare guru status? Let us know in the comments below!

Navigating the Beauty Wonderland: A Guide to Choosing the Best Beauty Products for Your Skin Sometimes, shopping for best beauty products can feel like you’re stepping into a magical wonderland. An overwhelming wonderland of different beauty products to choose from.   Other times, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing, and sometimes you may feel helpless trying to decipher all the labels, ingredients, and formulas to choose the right product for your skin type. As the best beauty products can be absorbed into our bloodstream through our skin, it’s important to look for products with quality, non-toxic ingredients.  We put together a list with some tips and advice on what to consider when making your next best beauty products purchase.  1. Read The Ingredients List  Ingredients are listed in order of most prominent to least. Therefore, the first few ingredients listed are what most of the formula is comprised of. Also, it’s important to make sure all ingredients are safe and nourishing for your skin, especially the first few listed! 2. Avoid Harmful Ingredients That May Irritate Your Skin And Impact Your Health  While you are checking the ingredients list, make sure to keep an eye out for some of these common skin irritants: Parabens Sodium lauryl Sulfate  Oxybenzone Artificial fragrances and perfumes Triclosan and Triclocarban  Formaldehyde Petroleum Distillates  DEA & TEA Talc 3. Look For Nourishing, Clean, And Natural Ingredients.  To ensure you don’t have a negative skin reaction or breakout, look for products comprised of natural, organic extracts (plants, roots, seeds, etc.) + minerals + antioxidants and skin nutrients (peptides, Vitamin E, C, etc.) Also, these kinds of ingredients will soothe and calm any skin irritations, nourish the skin with moisture, act as a barrier against harmful free radicals, prevent signs of aging, and help treat any skin issues like breakouts or rashes. If you have sensitive skin, look for products labeled non-allergenic or non-comedogenic. 4. Learn About The Brand By Deciphering Packaging Labels And Symbols  When choosing a makeup brand or product, it’s important to consider the brand’s values and ethics. Do they test on animals or use animal by-products in their formulas? However, are they cruelty-free? Also, is their packaging sourced from sustainable methods and recyclable? Most makeup and skincare products now carry symbols on the packaging to help consumers understand the brand and the product.  Here are some common symbols and what they mean.  USA Symbol - Product was made in the United States of America. Leaping Bunny Symbol - Cruelty-Free: not tested on animals. Vegan - The product does not contain any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Gluten-Free makeup symbol guarantees products to have fewer than 10 parts per million of gluten, which means you'll be reaction-free. Recycling Arrows Triangle - Packaging is recyclable. Peta Cruelty-Free - Not tested on animals. Open Lid Jar- This is the PAO (period after opening) symbol: within what time period the product should be used after opening.  Book- The hand pointing to the book indicates that there is more information about the product included in the packaging, often in an insert or on the opposite side of a peel-up sticker. Also, this symbol is usually included when there is not enough room to print all the product information in one place. 5. Choose Products That Best Suit Your Skin Tone  Knowing your skin tone and shade is very important when it comes to choosing a foundation, bronzer, eyeshadow, and even lipstick! Understanding your skin tone and skin type will help you to choose the perfect products to flatter and compliment your natural features. 6. Choosing The Best Products For Your Skin Type When shopping for the best beauty products, it’s essential to know what type of skin you have. For example, those with dry skin will benefit from hydrating cream or liquid products, whereas those with oily skin may find a mattifying powder or mineral foundation to be a better choice. You will also want to consider the amount of coverage that will best suit your needs. Those with skin redness, imperfections or irritations may desire more coverage, while those with more balance skin will require less. Foundations that are highly pigmented are great options. In addition, highly pigmented foundations offer lightweight, buildable coverage without looking cakey. Consider trying HD concealers, foundations, and powders. Formulated to appear flawless under intense light or an HD camera, these products enhance your look. Guaranteed to make those Instagram filters unnecessary!   7. Look For Duo-action Or Multi-purpose Products And Formulations  Trying to get ready for school or work is hectic enough as-is! Some people just don’t have time for a multi-step skincare and beauty routine. Products formulated to work as both skincare and makeup at the same time can be game-changers on these busy days. In addition, try looking for multi-purpose products to treat or provide many benefits simultaneously for the skin. For example, concealers that treat breakouts as well as camouflaging them, primers that treat breakouts and balance oil control while extending makeup wear, mascara that nourishes and strengthens lashes while lengthening. 8. Read Or Watch Reviews And Testimonials Spend some time to research the next best-selling product to ensure you get the bang for your buck. Also, reading reviews, comments, testimonials and watching videos can help decide if that new cult-face product is worth your time and money. Also, don’t forget to shop for your specific skin type - not all foundations and bronzers are the same! 9. Money-back Guarantee  A money-back guarantee is a great way to show that a brand truly stands behind their products and their customer’s satisfaction. Also, it’s a way to ensure you don’t waste your hard-earned money on products that simply don’t work for you.  Conclusion We live in a time where there are endless options and choices for beauty lovers. In addition, our team are fortunate to have access to product information to ensure we only use healthy, safe, clean, and the best beauty products. We believe in a beauty experience that is eco-friendly, 100% cruelty-free, 100% gluten-free, and 100% vegan-certified. Are you ready to join our mission for karma-free beauty?

If you’re anything like us, you were probably surprised to hear about skin pH levels. Your skin’s pH level is a critical component of good skin health. An pH imbalance level may be the root cause of common skin issue, such as breakouts, dryness or excess oiliness. We put together some information on your skin’s pH level so you can learn more about how it impacts your skin and some easy ways to maintain its balance.  The term pH is short for ‘the potential of hydrogen’ - it refers to the Acid vs. Alkalinity ratio in a given substance. pH is usually categorized by acidic, neutral or alkaline. It is also commonly referred to as your skin’s acid mantle. PH is measured on a scale between 1 to 14. The lower the number, the more acidic, the higher the number, the more alkaline. Our body’s overall pH level is around 7, so scientists consider the body to be slightly alkaline. Our skin’s pH is slightly lower, at a level of about 5.5, which means that our skin is weakly acidic.  Anything you put on your skin that is higher or lower in pH level will have the corresponding effect, raising or lowering the skin's pH level. When products are too alkaline, say with a pH level higher than 7, skin naturally becomes more acidic to neutralize the harm. When the skin's pH imbalance level is compromised, it is unable to neutralize the threat, this can cause damage to the skin.   pH Scale: 1-3 = Strongly acidic. Examples: grapefruit juice & vinegar Being in this zone may result in oily, acne-prone skin that suffers from redness and inflammation.  4-5 = Skin goals - weakly acidic Example: black coffee 6-8 = Weakly alkaline - Examples: tap and seawater 11-14 = Strongly alkaline - Examples: Bleach, ammonia  Being in this zone may result in skin dryness, inflammation, premature signs of aging, skin irritation, redness, and breakouts.   The Importance of Maintaining A Healthy Skin pH Mantle Your body's pH level is its first defense against germs, bacteria, environmental stress, and free radicals. Skin with a healthy and balanced pH mantle is also more effective in retaining moisture and hydration.  If the skin’s acid mantle becomes compromised or broken down, the skin will be less effective in fighting bacteria and germs. This can lead to more sensitive skin, that is more vulnerable to skin irritations, breakouts, and premature aging.  The breakdown in the defenses of the skin mantle will also impact the skin's lipid barrier, compromising its ability to heal and repair itself as efficiently as before. What Is A Healthy Skin pH level?  Healthy skin has a pH level between 4.2-5.5. At this optimal balance, skin can actively fight bacteria. If you have chronic dry skin, premature fine lines, and wrinkles, your skin may be too acidic. Signs of Skin pH Imbalance *For informational purposes only, consult a Doctor or Dermatologist when dealing with skin issues - Chronic breakouts  - Tight feeling skin - Consistently dry skin - Redness - Enlarged pores  - Flakiness and rough texture  - Heightened skin sensitivity  - Premature signs of aging, such as lines and wrinkles  - Eczema - Psoriasis  - Rosacea   If you want to be certain of your skin’s pH level, some dermatologists offer liquid pH testing services. There are also at-home test strip kits to test pH levels, but these tend to measure the body's pH level more than the skins. How To Avoid Disrupting Your Skin’s pH Level  - Avoid using hard water to shower and clean your face (hard water is alkaline (pH level may be as high as 8.5)  - Choose skincare and beauty products carefully. Many bar soaps or face cleansers have pH levels above 7, some as high as 12. Look for a cleanser that has a pH balance of 5, no more than 6.  - Look for products rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.  - Don’t use hot water to wash your face, lukewarm is best. - Skip products with harsh chemicals or toxins.    Common Products Or Treatments That May Cause A pH Level Disruption - Acid peels - Some Retinol treatments  - Some chemical exfoliants  - Bar soap Now that you know how important a properly balanced pH mantle is to the health of your skin, you can identify if a pH imbalance may be what is triggering some of your skin issues. Most importantly, start looking for products that will work in harmony with your skin's acid mantle.

Refresh and Revitalize: Your Guide to Post-Holiday Detox Post-Holiday Detox: Well, the holidays are over and a new year is officially upon us. Take a deep breath, you deserve it for surviving the craziest time of the year unscathed! Of course, it can be hard to start enjoying the fresh start if you’re still feeling tired, sluggish and rundown from the post-holiday season. Family visits, late nights and meals that aren’t, shall we say, the healthiest thing you can eat…it takes a lot out of you! We’re sure there are plenty of New Year’s resolutions on your radar this time of the year. But let's get real! The best way to ensure you’re starting on the right foot is to refresh yourself from the hustle of the post-holiday season. That means it’s time for a good detox! What do we mean by a detox exactly? You might be thinking of some crazy diet to flush out…whatever is in your system – and that’s part of it! We’re thinking of effective ways to detox both your body and your mind to start feeling good inside and out. There’s no need to rush into any drastic lifestyle changes! Our 5 tips to help you detox from the post-holiday season are easy enough to get you started. Trust us, you’re bound to feel better. 1. Take Stock Of Your Eating Habits  Maybe you, like the best of us, had a few too many gingerbread men or very filling dinners this season. Delicious as they are, they probably don’t leave you feeling 100%. But the way to compensate is not to dive into any crash diets. Instead, start small – it will be so much easier to build good habits this way! Start by clearing out any holiday treats from your home – candy canes? Leftovers? Fruitcake? It doesn’t matter, get them out of your kitchen! instead, stock up on fresh and healthy foods that you enjoy, such as fresh fruits, veggies, and lean proteins. 2. Get A Good Night's Sleep Holiday fun usually doesn’t come without late nights, especially on New Year's Eve! A lot of us find ourselves on the other side of the New Year with some pretty messed up sleeping habits. Exhaustion and poor sleep can lead to more than just a grouchy mood. Studies have shown that just one bad night of sleep can cause health changes throughout your whole body! This year, start making a point to ease back into a normal schedule. Yes, that means a solid seven to nine hours per night! Also, get into a luxurious bedtime routine to help you relaxed, like a bubble bath and some relaxing music. Also, limit your screen time before bed! The light from your computer, phone or TV can make it hard for your brain to “switch off” when it’s time to sleep. Make it the perfect opportunity to dig into that book you’ve been putting off! 3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate Did you drink more mulled wine and eggnog than water this season? Understandable, but hardly the best thing you can put in your body. One of the quickest and easiest ways to detox after the holidays is by upping your water intake. Most people are actually more dehydrated than they realize. Getting the right amount of water can help clear your skin, improve your digestion and promote positive mental health – that’s right, just from drinking water! Invest in a good reusable water bottle (go easy on the plastic please!) and start carrying it with you to encourage and remind yourself. Need a little flavor? Try chopping up some fresh fruits and herbs to toss inside for a yummy pop. Strawberries, lemons, cucumbers, and mint are great for this! 4. Look Out For Better Habits It’s a sad fact, but the majority of folks never follow through with their New Year’s resolution past the first month. And that’s probably because they jump into a new vigorous routine too quickly. It’s hard for anybody to commit to an intense new diet or exercise routine – and it’s even easier to quit. This year, start by making small changes, especially looking for good habits you can easily integrate into your life. Make a commitment to exercise once per week, try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, for example. These are the kind of changes that will add up quickly! 5. Spend Time With People Who “Recharge” You The holidays are a time for togetherness, but with some families that can easily lead to too much togetherness. A great way to detox? Also, spend time with people who make you feel like your best self. Think of them as “rechargers” to cleanse your spirit. Grab coffee with a friend, catch up over dinner with your closest sibling or plan a low-key happy hour with your coworkers. Surround yourself with the people who make you happiest, and those stressful feelings will lift away. What are your favorite ways to ‘detox’ after the holidays? Let us know in the comments!

Winter Skincare Survival Guide: Say Goodbye to Dry, Itchy Skin! Ah, winter. The holidays are right around the corner, a new year is just on the horizon and dry, itchy winter skin is.. not exactly what we’re looking forward to. When the temps start to drop - and the heaters inside start to blast - protect your skin this winter, dryness can make your winter wonderland really unpleasant. Unavoidable? No way! In fact, staying supple and hydrated all season is actually a lot easier than you might think.  But let’s back up a little bit. What causes wintertime dryness? Well, cold air tends to be drier than the warm, humid air from the summer months. This can zap out any moisture in your skin cells. But the heat inside isn’t much better, as HVAC systems and space heaters can also dry out the air as they warm up.   So, What can you do? Be proactive and Defensive? We have a few tips up our sleeve to help protect your skin this winter against dryness! 1. Hydrate Inside Water is the best way to combat dry skin protect your skin this winter - and there are more ways to consume it than you think. Of course, staying hydrated by drinking your eight glasses a day is always a smart place to start. Pack a water bottle with you throughout the day so there’s no excuse not to drink!  ...And Out Of course, locking in the hydration that’s already in your skin is another strong solution against wintertime dryness. Our Miracle 7-in-1 Primer Serum is loaded with potent botanical moisturizers to soothe and quench parched skin. Plus, our Hydrawear Foundation is packed with Hyaluronic Acid - an ingredient we’re big fans of here at Emani - that’s designed to help plump your skin cells up with moisture. Work these two powerhouse products into your routine, and you’ll have smooth skin in no time. 2. Avoid (and Combat!) the Triggers One of the simplest solutions to protect your skin this winter from dryness is to keep away from any triggers. Avoid spending extended time outdoors if you can, and protect your face with a hat and scarf if you do! But if they’re unavoidable - like the stifling heating system in your office, for example - there are definitely ways to stay on the defensive. A humidifier is an easy investment towards keeping the air in your home or office hydrated. 3, Stay Away from Steam The heat from your shower can also strip away the natural moisturizer in your skin. We know, it might sound a little counterintuitive. Even though there’s nothing better than a steamy shower on a freezing day, hot water can strip away the natural oils that keep your skin supple. Try to keep the temperature to a happy medium and if you’re really craving a steaming shower, limit your time to as little as possible. The Things You Didn’t Think About So you’ve got the ins and outs of moisturizing to protect your skin this winter. You’ve got it right? Just a few more things to consider… Did you know that your skin is susceptible to sun damage even in the winter? It’s true! The low trajectory of the sun and bright, reflective snow can actually cause sunburns and UV damage. That’ll leave your skin totally parched too, but that’s the least of your concerns! You should wear sunscreen every day, even in the winter. And while you’re spending all this time thinking about your face, don’t forget about your lips! If the delicate skin of your pout get chapped and cracked in the cold, all of the above tips will certainly apply. We hope you head into the cold frontier of the season with the newfound knowledge of how to keep your face, lips and skin nourished and healthy. After all, the only flakes you encounter this winter should be snowflakes, not dry, flaky skin! Do you have any of your own tips to protect your skin during the harsh winter? Let us know in the comments!

Embrace the Season of Self-Care: Five Simple Ways to Feel Good This Fall We don’t know about you, but among the Emani team, fall is by far the collective favorite season. After a long, hot summer it’s been so nice to enjoy the crispness in the air. And of course, it’s been great taking part in some of the seasonal activities. We’re talking apple picking, pumpkin carving and of course, enjoying plenty of pumpkin spice. There’s no denying that fall is a time of change. As the leaves start to turn, it feels like as good a time as any to start taking stock of everything going on in your life. We like to think of fall as the season of self-care. And if you’re finding yourself in need of a little more mindfulness this time of year - whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety or even just that general blah feeling - we have five simple ways to feel good this fall! 1. Light a Fall Candle Scent is a powerful trigger for memory and emotion. And fittingly, scent is one of the best things about fall. There are so many warm fragrances to choose from, even if pumpkin spice isn’t your thing (No judgment here!). So go ahead, pick out your favorite candle, light it up and sit back and relax as the fall fragrance envelops your home.  If you relax while you’re smelling the candle, you’ll probably start associating that scent with those calm feelings. That way, you can bust out the same candle anytime you’re feeling stressed out or overwhelmed. A few quick inhales, and trust us - cooler heads will prevail. And since we’re all about clean living here at Emani, we definitely recommend looking for candles made from organic beeswax or soy - for a vegan option! - with a cotton or cellulose paper wick.  2. Try a New Makeup Look Beauty is what we live for here at Emani, and fall is one of our favorite times of year to switch up your beauty routine. We associate the cool weather with darker jewel tones, bold lip colors, and fresh-faced skin. For the latter, we have to recommend our Hydrawear Plus. It’s loaded with moisturizing and plumping hyaluronic acid, leaving your skin with a beautiful, dewy glow that lasts all day. Sometimes even just switching up your routine can be enough to shake things up. If you normally use a brow pencil, try using a cream for a bolder look (Our Brow Pomade is a great place to start - plus the Vitamin E in the formula promotes fuller, healthier brows!). 3. Enjoy the Weather with an Outdoor Workout Fresh air is really a natural cure-all for so many things. A stressful day, a bout of nerves - they can all be helped with something as simple as a walk around the block.  Fall’s crisp and refreshing weather is ideal for a nice workout. If it’s a sunny day outside, try going for a walk through your neighborhood, or grab a group of friends and go on a hike. Try and find out if there are any outdoor workout classes in your community - imagine doing yoga in the cool air! 4. Try a Fall Recipe Much like smell, tasting something yummy is a great way to feed both your soul and your stomach. There are so many delicious flavors to associate with fall - even thinking beyond pumpkin! We’re talking hearty soups, baked pies, plus seasonal fruits like apples and cranberries. While it’s easy to think of cooking as a chore, it can be a really grounding and revitalizing act. Think about it: you’re taking a bunch of separate ingredients, methodically preparing them and then transforming them into something completely new, all by your own work! There’s definitely something zen and humbling there, if you put it that way. Try to set aside time to cook a new fall recipe, whether it’s whipping up a batch of pumpkin bread or boiling a pot of chicken soup. When you’re focusing on that, you can set aside any stress and anxiety and just focus on the chopping, peeling and stirring in front of you. The delicious reward at the end? Another bonus! 5. Take in the Changing Leaves Fall is a time of change, sure, but it sure is a beautiful one! The changing of the leaves only lasts for a few weeks every season, and it’s one of those fleeting moments in nature that can be so easy to forget about. This season, make time to truly enjoy one of the most splendid things nature has to offer - at Emani, we’re certainly big believers in the power of nature! Take a scenic drive through a wooded area during the peak of the colorful foliage. It’s also a great opportunity to test out your artistic skills, which is such a great stress reliever. Consider yourself an amateur photographer? Snap a few Instagram shots of the reds and oranges in the trees and we guarantee the likes will start rolling in!  Trying to tap into your artistic side? Fantastic! Find a spot outside and start sketching the sights with colored pencils.

Do You Know What You’re Putting on Your Skin? Does this sound familiar? You pick out a new skincare product on a whim - maybe it’s a moisturizer, or a cleanser, or some sort of serum - take it home, try it out...and the next thing you know, your skin breakout.  How did this happen? Well, you may have run into comedogenics - an unfortunately all-too-common ingredient in many cosmetics and skincare products. Though many formulas have improved in recent years, other commonly used skincare products still contain comedogenic ingredients. That could mean a breakout, blemishes and even full-blown acne are waiting just around the corner. Learn to avoid pore-clogging, acne-causing comedogenic ingredients easily. And more so, you can also get to know ingredients that are skin-healthy too. Comedogenics - Hiding in Plain Sight First of all, what are comedogenics? Simply put, they’re substances that sit heavy on the skin and cause comedos - the earliest stage of a clogged pore. Since scientists started researching the effects of these chemicals on the skin in the 1970s, companies have made an effort to remove them. Unfortunately, the sheer amount of comedogenic ingredients used in skincare and makeup means they’re difficult to avoid entirely. An easy way to tell if a product contains comedogenic ingredients is to take notice of the consistency.  Thick, creamy products might feel luxurious to coat over your skin, but they’re actually acting like a big blanket - your pores can’t breathe! Your reading skills are also important when it comes to choosing the right skincare products. A quick skim of the ingredients label will tell you a lot about the makeup of a product - and how likely it is that it can cause a breakout. Products that have “isopropyl-“ in the name are frequently common comedogenics, as are sulfates like the dreaded sodium lauryl sulfate. If you ever come across these on a label, you can assume it’s probably not very nice and breathable for your skin. What Ingredients Should I Look Out For? So with all this in mind, what exactly are you supposed to put on your skin? After all, it seems like the list of what to avoid is impossible to follow. Once again, reading is going to be your biggest helper. The easiest way to avoid acne-causing ingredients is to simply look for products labeled as ‘non-comedogenic.’ Take a look at the ingredients on the box of tube before you purchase - We always list the ingredients for our makeup and serums.  Unlock the Secret to Breakout Free Skin If you can, note the consistency. Does it feel lightweight? Clear? More like a serum? It’s probably much safer to put on your skin without having to worry about a breakout happening. Look out for ingredients that are always safe. Aloe Vera is one of the best and healthiest products you can apply to your skin - and as an added bonus, it’s a completely natural and plant-derived ingredient that’s certainly not comedogenic. Civilizations have used Aloe Vera to treat skin, hair and nails for over 6,000 years, so it’s really time-honored. In fact, it's a key ingredient in our Perfect10 Primer Serum! You’ll be celebrating your clear and healthy skin in no time!

I have a little secret to share with you all: I am the founder of a cosmetics company and I had horrible, sensitive, and cystic acne prone skin!