The Be Well Blog

Finding Light in the Storm: How SaunaSpace Helped Me Heal from an MS Relapse

Finding Light in the Storm: How SaunaSpace Helped Me Heal from an MS Relapse

This past year tested me in ways I hadn’t expected. An MS relapse crashed into my life like a wave I couldn’t outrun—exhaustion settled into my bones, stiffness locked my muscles, and a fog clouded my mind. As someone who’s lived with MS for years, I’ve learned to navigate its ebbs and flows, but this time felt different—darker, heavier. Yet, through it all, there’s been a steady, glowing anchor pulling me back to myself: SaunaSpace.

For over four years, SaunaSpace has been my quiet refuge, but this year, it became my healer. We’ve nestled the Firelight Sauna in our bedroom, and stepping inside feels like crossing a threshold into peace. The near-infrared heat pours over me like a golden tide, warm and alive, melting the knots that MS tied into my body. It’s as if the stiffness dissolves into the air, leaving me weightless—reborn in small, tender moments. My skin drinks it in too, shedding that weary, washed-out look for a radiance that feels like a whisper of resilience.

Then there’s the Glow Infrared Light—my faithful companion beyond the bedroom. I take it with me when I travel, a portable piece of calm, or set it by my desk when brain fog threatens to derail my day. It's soft, penetrating warmth steadies my nerves, like a hand on my shoulder saying, “You’ve got this.” Together, these tools have woven a thread of recovery through this year’s storm, helping me reclaim pieces of myself I thought I’d lost.

The Benefits That Carried Me Through

What makes infrared light so special? For me, it’s been a lifeline—one grounded in science and felt in my soul. That deep, gentle heat stirs circulation, easing the muscle spasms and fatigue that flared with my relapse. It quiets inflammation like a soothing balm, nudging my cells to repair and sparking flickers of energy I’d forgotten. The sweat it draws out feels like a release—toxins and tension slipping away, lightening the load I’d carried. And for my skin, it’s pure alchemy—boosting collagen, smoothing lines, and leaving me with a glow that mirrors the healing inside. These aren’t just benefits; they’re quiet miracles that held me up when I needed it most.

A Haven in Our Space

Our SaunaSpace sits in our bedroom like an elegant sentinel—sleek, seamless, and radiating peace. It’s more than a tool; it’s a sanctuary, transforming our space into a retreat where I can breathe, heal, and just be. The Glow, with its portability, extends that comfort wherever I go—whether I’m on the road or at my desk, it’s a reminder that wellness can follow me. Together, they’ve turned this year of struggle into one of rediscovery.

I share this not just because it’s my story, but because it’s a possibility for anyone. You don’t need MS to feel the countless ways infrared light lifts your health—it’s a gift to yourself now and your future self. For me, it’s been a light in the dark, a way to soften the edges of a hard year, and a promise that healing is always within reach.

I have a personal 10% off code: BEWELL



Love + Be Well,

By Natalie

Founder | The Skincare Chef

A Softer Season: Life After My MS Relapse

A Softer Season: Life After My MS Relapse

Honey Pot: The Story of a Polishing Nectar Born from My Soul

Honey Pot: The Story of a Polishing Nectar Born from My Soul

There comes a moment when you feel your skin shift—a quiet whisper of time, a softening of edges, a call for something deeper. For me, that moment arrived as my skin matured, tugging at my heart to craft a ritual that felt extraordinary yet kind, a celebration of where I’ve been and where I’m going. I’ve spent years as The Skincare Chef, blending nature’s finest in my kitchen of dreams, chasing that perfect harmony. And now, after countless seasons of tending and tasting, it’s here: Honey Pot Polishing Nectar—my love letter to myself, and to you.

This little jar holds more than ingredients—it holds my story. As my skin began to tell its age, I craved a polish that didn’t just scrub away the day but wrapped me in care, lifting me up with every touch. I turned to the earth, my truest teacher, and let her guide me. What emerged is a nectar that feels like a silken embrace—wild honey dripping over my skin, hibiscus blooming with life, and oils sinking deep to honor every layer of my journey. It’s luxury, yes, but the kind that feels like home.

Purely Natural, All-Organic Magic

Every element in Honey Pot is organic—sourced from nature’s heart, untainted and alive. Here’s what I’ve woven together, with a little spark of joy:

  • Organic Mel (Wild Honey) - Hydrates & soothes, like a warm hug from the hive.

  • Organic Sucrose (Sugar) - Gently polishes, smoothing away roughness with a tender hand.

  • Organic Terminalia Ferdinandiana Seed Oil (Kakadu Oil) - Brightens with vitamin C, a burst of sunshine in every drop.

  • Organic Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba Oil) - Nourishes deeply, sinking in like a sigh of relief.

  • Organic Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rosehip Oil) - Renews & glows, painting my skin with dewy light.

  • Organic Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter (Cocoa Butter) - Softens richly, a velvety melt that feels like decadence.

  • Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax) - Protects & seals, locking in goodness like a whispered promise.

  • Organic Avena Sativa Kernel Flour (Oat Flour) - Smooths delicately, a gentle dusting of calm.

  • Organic Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Powder (Acai Powder) - Fights free radicals, a tiny warrior for my skin’s future.

  • Organic Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Powder (Hibiscus Powder) - Lifts & firms, blooming with strength and grace.

  • Organic Santalum Album Oil (Sandalwood Oil) - Calms with luxury, a grounding breath of forest stillness.

  • Organic Jasminum Officinale Oil (Jasmine Oil) - Uplifts elegantly, a floral lift that dances on my senses.

Each scoop of this nectar is like dipping into a pot of gold—sweet, earthy, and alive. It polishes away what’s dull, leaving behind a glow that feels like me, but brighter, softer, more me than ever.

A Ritual for Every Stage

This isn’t just about mature skin—it’s about honoring every stage of your journey, wherever you are. I created Honey Pot because I needed it, but it’s yours too—a gift to cradle your skin with the same love I’ve poured into mine. It’s a moment of pause, a chance to feel extraordinary in your own quiet way. Whether your skin’s whispering its first lines or singing a seasoned song, this nectar meets you there, with kindness and a touch of wild beauty.

From my hands to yours, Honey Pot Polishing Nectar is more than skincare—it’s a ritual, a memory, a piece of my heart. Step into its story with me, and let’s glow together.


Love + Be Well,

by Natalie

Founder | The Skincare Chef

Is Your Skin Barrier Sending an SOS? Spot the Signs and Restore Your Natural Glow

Is Your Skin Barrier Sending an SOS? Spot the Signs and Restore Your Natural Glow

Your skin is a warrior. It’s your first line of defense against the world—pollution, weather, stress, you name it. But even the toughest warriors need a little TLC sometimes. When your skin barrier gets compromised, it’s like the shield takes a hit, and suddenly, your complexion isn’t quite its radiant self. As a skincare expert, I’ve seen it time and again: subtle signs that your skin’s protective layer is crying out for help. The good news? You can bring back that natural glow with a few mindful steps. Let’s dive in.

What’s a Skin Barrier, Anyway?

Think of your skin barrier as a brick wall—lipids, ceramides, and fatty acids acting as the mortar holding everything together. It keeps moisture in and irritants out. When that wall gets cracks—whether from harsh products, over-exfoliation, or life’s chaos—it can’t do its job as well. The result? A complexion that’s less “lit from within” and more “please send help.”

Signs Your Skin Barrier Is Waving a White Flag

Your skin’s pretty good at dropping hints when something’s off. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Redness or Irritation: That flushed, angry look that won’t quit? It’s your skin saying it’s overwhelmed.
  2. Dryness or Tightness: If your face feels like it’s shrinking after you wash it, your barrier’s moisture lock might be broken.
  3. Sensitivity Surge: Suddenly, your go-to cleanser stings, or the wind feels like sandpaper—classic sign of a weakened shield.
  4. Dullness: When that natural glow goes MIA, it’s often because your skin’s too busy fighting to shine.
  5. Breakouts or Flaky Patches: Paradoxical, right? But a disrupted barrier can lead to clogged pores and peeling at the same time.

Sound familiar? Don’t panic—it happens to the best of us. I’ve had mornings where my own skin looked like it staged a protest overnight. The key is listening and responding with care.

How to Nurse Your Skin Barrier Back to Health

Restoring your skin’s barrier isn’t about fancy gimmicks—it’s about simplicity and consistency. Here’s how to get that glow back:

  1. Pause the Actives: Love your synthetic retinol or exfoliating acids? Give them a break. Overusing these heavy hitters can strip your barrier faster than you can say “peel.” Stick to gentle basics for a week or two. Better yet, switching to an all natural brand of skincare.
  2. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job: Look for a no-frills cleanser (think oil, not foamy) and layer on a moisturizer packed with barrier-loving ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or sqalene. It’s like giving your skin a big drink of water.
  3. Soothe the Storm: Ingredients like probiotics, oats, or aloe can calm redness and irritation. I swear by keeping a lightweight, soothing oil on hand for those SOS moments.
  4. Shield Up: Sun and pollution are barrier bullies. A mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide not only protects but can also help calm things down.
  5. Eat and Sleep Your Way There: Glowing skin isn’t just topical—omega-3s from salmon or walnuts and a solid 7-8 hours of sleep help rebuild from the inside out.

The Glow-Up Payoff

Here’s the beauty of it: when you nurture and feed your skin barrier, it rewards you. That tightness fades, redness dials back, and your natural radiance starts peeking through again. It’s not instant—give it a week or two—but it’s worth it. I’ve seen customers go from “my skin hates me” to “wait, is this my face?” just by hitting pause and prioritizing repair.

Listen to Your Skin

Your complexion’s a mirror of how you’re living and treating it. Next time it feels off, don’t just power through—take a beat. What’s it telling you? Maybe it’s time to swap that gritty scrub for something gentler or trade late-night scrolling for an early bedtime. Small shifts, big glow.

 

Love + Be Well,

by Natalie

The Skincare Chef

Hydration vs. Moisture: What’s the Difference for Your Skin?

Hydration vs. Moisture: What’s the Difference for Your Skin?

When it comes to skincare, “hydration” and “moisture” get tossed around like they’re the same thing—but they’re not. Understanding the difference can unlock the secret to your best skin yet. Think of it like this: hydration is the water your skin drinks from within, while moisture is the lush, protective layer you gift it from the outside. Both matter, but they play different roles—and knowing how they work can transform your routine. Let’s break it down.
Hydration: The Inner Glow
Hydration is all about water—specifically, how much your skin cells are holding onto. It’s the foundation of that plump, dewy, alive look we all chase. When your skin’s hydrated, it’s flexible, resilient, and glowing from the inside out.
  • Where It Comes From: This starts within you. Drinking water, eating juicy fruits like watermelon or cucumber, and supporting your body’s natural balance all feed hydration. Your skin barrier—the outermost layer—plays a big role too, trapping water so it doesn’t slip away.
  • What It Does: Hydrated skin bounces back. It’s less likely to feel tight, look dull, or show those sneaky fine lines that pop up when it’s parched. Even oily skin can be dehydrated—hydration isn’t about oil, it’s about water.
  • Signs You Need It: If your skin feels taut after washing, looks lackluster despite moisturizing, or shows tiny dehydration lines (especially around the eyes), it’s crying for water.
Skincare can help here, but it’s more of a wingman than the star. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid pull water into your skin, while vitamin C-rich players—like the rosehip and kakadu oils —support your barrier and renewal, boosting that natural hydration from within.
Moisture: The Outer Shield
Moisture, on the other hand, is the nourishing blanket you layer on top. It’s about oils, emollients, and richness—think of it as the shield that locks in hydration and keeps your skin soft and smooth. This is where your products take center stage.
  • Where It Comes From: This is skincare’s domain. Think creamy butters, thick balms, and luxe oils—like the wild honey and cocoa butter. These ingredients mimic your skin’s natural lipids, sealing in water and adding a protective, velvety finish.
  • What It Does: Moisture softens rough patches, prevents flaking, and gives you that dewy, touchable texture. It’s the barrier that stops hydration from evaporating into the air, especially in dry climates or harsh seasons.
  • Signs You Need It: Dry, flaky skin that feels rough or cracked? That’s a moisture SOS. Without it, even hydrated skin can feel parched on the surface—moisture’s the fix.
Why They’re a Power Duo
Hydration and moisture aren’t rivals—they’re partners. Hydration fills your skin’s water tank, but without moisture to seal it in, that water can slip away, leaving you dull and tight. Moisture coats and comforts, but without hydration underneath, it might just sit there, greasy and unabsorbed. Together? They’re magic: plump, glowing skin that’s soft to the touch.
  • The Science Bit: Your skin barrier needs both water (hydration) and lipids (moisture) to stay healthy. Dehydration weakens it, letting water escape; low moisture leaves it exposed. Products that tackle both—like a polish and moisture mask—give you the full package.
How to Balance Them in Your Routine
  • Boost Hydration: Drink up (water’s your skin’s BFF), and look for lightweight, water-binding ingredients like hyaluronic acid in serums. Follow with a product that supports your barrier to keep that hydration thriving.
  • Layer Moisture: Slather on creams, balms, or masks with emollients—think shea butter, oils, or our honey-cocoa combo. Use them after water-based steps to trap hydration in.
  • Listen to Your Skin: Tight and dull? Up the hydration. Rough and flaky? More moisture. Combo skin might need both—oily zones can still lack water, dry patches crave that shield.
The Takeaway
Hydration is your skin’s inner drink; moisture is its outer armor. One comes from your body’s core, the other from your jar of goodness—and together, they’re the key to radiant, timeless skin. Ready to layer up your best skin yet?


Love + Be Well
Clear Skin, Clear Myths: Debunking Common Skincare Misconceptions

Clear Skin, Clear Myths: Debunking Common Skincare Misconceptions

 

Skincare can be a maze of misinformation, where myths often overshadow facts. Here, we explore and debunk some of the most common skincare myths, offering clarity based on expert insights.

Myth 1: Oil is Always the Enemy for Oily SkinReality: Not all oils are detrimental to oily skin. While it's wise to avoid heavy, pore-clogging oils, lighter, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or argan can actually help regulate oil production by mimicking the skin's natural sebum, thus providing hydration without the negatives.

Myth 2: You Don't Need Moisturizer if You Have Oily or Acne-Prone SkinReality: Every skin type, including oily or acne-prone, requires moisture. The misconception that moisturizing can lead to more oiliness is widespread, but the truth is, neglecting to moisturize can cause the skin to produce more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration, potentially exacerbating acne issues.

Myth 3: The More Active Ingredients, the BetterReality: Piling on skincare products with multiple active ingredients can do more harm than good. This can lead to skin irritation and sensitivity. Understanding how each ingredient interacts with your skin and others in your routine is crucial for effectiveness and safety.

Myth 4: You Should Wash Your Face Multiple Times a Day to Keep It CleanReality: Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and a rebound oil production. A balanced approach with a gentle cleanse in the morning to remove overnight buildup and a thorough cleanse at night to wash away the day's dirt and makeup is often ideal.

Myth 5: Expensive Products Are Always SuperiorReality: Price doesn't guarantee better results. The efficacy of a skincare product lies in its formulation, not its cost. Ingredients and their concentrations are what matter. Many times, less expensive products contain similar active ingredients to their luxury counterparts, just in simpler packaging.

Conclusion: Skincare with Insight In the world of skincare, separating myth from reality enables better decision-making. The best skincare routine is personalized, consistent, and grounded in understanding rather than marketing claims. Remember, skincare is not about chasing the next big trend but nurturing your skin day by day with what it truly needs and craves.

Radiant Summer: Natural Skincare Tips to Feed Your Glow

Radiant Summer: Natural Skincare Tips to Feed Your Glow

 

As the warm embrace of summer beckons, it's time to revamp your skincare routine and embrace the radiance of the season. Say goodbye to dull, tired skin and hello to a luminous summer glow with these natural skincare tips that will nourish and rejuvenate your complexion from the inside out.

 

  1. Hydration is Key: With the sun shining bright, it's crucial to keep your skin hydrated. Opt for lightweight, water-based moisturizers containing natural ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract, or hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture without clogging pores. Don't forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within.

 

  1. Sun Protection, Naturally: Shield your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays with natural sunscreens that contain mineral ingredients like non nano zinc oxide. Look for broad-spectrum formulas with an SPF of 30 to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and seeking shade during peak sun hours to further protect your skin.

 

  1. Exfoliate Gently: Buff away dead skin cells and reveal a fresh, glowing complexion by incorporating gentle exfoliation into your skincare routine. Opt for natural exfoliants that gently slough away dead skin without causing irritation. Limit exfoliation to 2-3 times per week to avoid over-exfoliating, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to sensitivity.

 

  1. Nourish with Antioxidants: Combat free radical damage and protect your skin from environmental stressors with antioxidant-rich skincare products. Look for serums or moisturizers containing ingredients like vitamin C, eating berries, leafy greens, and nuts, which help to brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and promote a youthful complexion.

 

  1. Cooling Facial Mists: Keep your skin refreshed and revitalized throughout the day with a cooling facial mist. Opt for products infused with soothing ingredients like rosewater, probiotics, and aloe, which help to calm inflammation, hydrate the skin, and provide instant relief from the summer heat.

 

  1. Embrace Natural Oils: Incorporate lightweight facial oils into your skincare routine to lock in moisture and enhance your skin's natural radiance. Choose non-comedogenic oils like jojoba, argan, or rosehip seed oil, which absorb quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Apply a few drops to damp skin after cleansing to seal in moisture and leave your complexion glowing.

 

  1. Mindful Makeup Choices: Opt for lightweight, breathable clean makeup formulas that allow your skin to breathe in the summer heat. Look for mineral-based foundations and tinted moisturizers that provide coverage without clogging pores, and choose sheer, dewy finishes for a natural, luminous glow.

 

By incorporating these natural skincare tips into your summer routine, you can nourish your skin from within, protect it from the sun's harmful rays, and unleash your inner radiance for a summer season filled with glowing moments. So, slather on that sunscreen, hydrate like it's your job, and embrace the sunshine with confidence and glowing skin!

 

 

Hyaluronic Acid: The Secret Ingredient Your Skin Craves

Hyaluronic Acid: The Secret Ingredient Your Skin Craves

 

Hey there, skincare enthusiasts! Are you ready to unlock the secret to glowing, hydrated skin? Look no further than hyaluronic acid - the must-have ingredient your skin is craving. This powerhouse molecule is here to revolutionize your skincare routine and give you that coveted dewy complexion. Say goodbye to dry, dull skin and hello to a radiant, youthful glow. 

The Power of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration. It has the ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it an essential ingredient for plump, hydrated skin. As we age, our skin's natural hyaluronic acid levels decrease, leading to dryness and loss of elasticity. By incorporating hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine, you can replenish your skin's moisture levels and achieve a more youthful appearance.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

One of the key benefits of hyaluronic acid is its ability to hydrate the skin without clogging pores or feeling greasy. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Hyaluronic acid also has anti-aging properties, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by plumping and firming the skin. Additionally, its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for calming redness and irritation.

How to Incorporate Hyaluronic Acid into Your Skincare Routine

There are many ways to incorporate hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine. It can be found in serums, moisturizers, and even sheet masks. For best results, apply hyaluronic acid after cleansing and toning, but before heavier products like moisturizers or oils. This will allow the hyaluronic acid to penetrate the skin and lock in moisture effectively.

So, if you're looking to achieve that coveted dewy complexion and say goodbye to dry, dull skin, look no further than hyaluronic acid. Your skin will thank you for it!

Five Hygienic Habits you NEED to Update Right Now

Five Hygienic Habits you NEED to Update Right Now

After some-odd years of life, you probably think, “haven’t I got this all figured out?!”. Erm, maybe not. Sure, you’re washing your hands and brushing your teeth, but we’re not talking about the basics. In this labyrinth of cleanliness, we’re breaking down your bathroom door, invading your makeup bag, and even sneak-peaking that messy drawer. So, are you ready to take a deep (disinfected) breath and roll up your sleeves? Well grab your sanitizer! Here we go!


Cleansing with regular body wash 


Standard body wash smells and lathers up amazing—no question about it! Just one problem though: we’re soaking up the good as well as the bad! Basic drugstore body washes serve a toxic buffet of chemicals: parabens, perfumes, alcohol, sulfates, etc. 


Instead, opt for an organic artisanal soap. Crafted with plant-based nutrients and skin-balancing probiotics, it hydrates and cleanses skin, leaving it butter-soft and fresh! 



Using dirty makeup brushes 


As one of the most common bathroom no nos, dirty makeup brushes are the crème-de-la-crème of hygienic mishaps! Think about the amount of microbial grime that festers in our brushes. Bacteria, oil, dirt—sometimes even fungi (ew!)—these are the culprits coating our skin in filth! 


To prevent breakouts, we must cleanse our makeup brushes every two weeks with organic plant-based soap and warm water. And be sure to blow dry them to prevent mold from growing in the wet bristles. 


Extra tip: As a side note, remember to cleanse your phone screen regularly too (for the same reason). 


Leaving dry shampoo in your hair 


Every lazy girl who loves fluffy hair swears by dry shampoo. We get it! As a one-day shortcut, this option is fine—BUT not as a daily hair hack for more volume! 


Dry shampoo accumulates on the scalp, blocking the hair follicles which can stunt growth overtime. We’re better off settling for a couple days of flat, semi-greasy hair than clogging our roots with this chalky residue! 


Using basic deodorant


Having blossom-fresh pits is a peace of mind. Sure. However, with standard deodorants, that waft of perfume under your arms comes from toxic chemicals like alcohol and aluminum. Meanwhile, this gunk doesn’t only block our sweat glands, it also contains drying ingredients which irritate our under arms. 


For a healthier route to breezy-clean pits, go for a plant-based deodorant. And no, this isn’t a hipster hygiene hack for naturalists who don’t mind extra BO. Read our article on the perks of plant-based deodorants to learn more! 


Creating scented baths 


For the same reason we don’t use standard deodorants, we don’t take dips in candy-scented bubble baths—one word: toxic! These standard aromatic formulas contain phthalates, alcohols and other hard-to-pronounce nasties. 


So skip the standard bath soaps and instead opt for Dead Sea salt. Enriched with 21 skin-loving minerals, it helps calm and nourish your skin, while turning your tub into a floaty aquatic escape you’ll love repeating! 


Hygiene isn’t just about forest-crisp scents or the appearance of purity—after all, looks can be deceiving. And this includes other naughty habits: the 'five-second-rule' food pickups, neglecting the 'behind-the-ear' clean, or keeping that mascara for decades. Ultimately, hygiene is more than a choice, it’s a lifestyle.

5 Reasons You Need a Plant-Based Deodorant

5 Reasons You Need a Plant-Based Deodorant

Some say plant-based deodorants are for hippies who don't mind a little body odor. So not true! Let’s clear the air here (with a fresh, breezy waft)—that's an old myth! Plant-based deodorants are for anyone who wants to keep fresh, naturally. And so long as we’re using a premium formula, they’re as effective as they are earth-friendly. Let’s turn our attention to these 5 reasons you need a plant-based deodorant.


  • Reduced chemical exposure 

  • As consumers grow smarter about ingredients in cosmetics, more of us are reaching for alcohol-free deodorants without toxic chemicals. To name a few, we often see parabens, aluminum and propylene glycol—the toxic trio of underarm trouble! 


    Ever get itchy armpits? There’s a reason. The chemicals often found in regular deodorants interfere with the skin’s microbiome and the release of sweat. As moisture builds up, our skin can get irritated, developing bumps and rashes. Worth smelling like a fruity bouquet? We think…not.


  • Natural ingredients 

  • Care for a pit detox? With a plant-based deodorant, you avoid clogging your armpits with that artificial soapy gunk, which blocks your pores from releasing sweat. 


    The best plant-based deodorants contain botanicals with natural anti-bacterial properties to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria without clogging pores! This award-winning plant-based deodorant, for example, is formulated with the gold standard of pit-loving ingredients: natural mineral salts, skin-softening rose water, alcohol-free witch hazel, probiotics and cold-pressed aloe. 


    Still worried about the smelling? This deodorant also features a proprietary blend of essential oils, leaving you with a pleasant scent of arm-lifting freedom. Plus, no white residue! You’re welcome, black shirts.


  • Effective odor control 

  • With generic deodorants, it may seem like you’re controlling odor, but really, you’re just masking the problem with perfume and powder—it’s actually not hygienic! 


    Since plant-based deodorants are mixed with essential oils (nature’s perfume), they blanket your pits in a delicate aroma. Meanwhile, their gentle bacteria-fighting powers ward off stink. Together, the effects are hydrating and pH-balancing, complimenting your skin’s microbiome for healthier, softer underarms. 


  • Probiotic-friendly 

  • Your armpits need buddies too! Enter probiotic plant-based deodorants. Probiotics are like the bouncers for your sweat glands, guarding against impurities from overcrowding the party of microbes. In this case, the good bacteria are invited to frolic freely, while stinking ones are escorted out, so you can raise your arms high! 


    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27892611/


  • Sustainability 

  • Plant-based deodorants moonlight as an environmental superhero. With their organic ingredients, these green warriors, packed with nature's finest, reduce your carbon pits-print, trading harsh chemicals for biodegradable botanicals. So, if you dream of smelling fresh (but in a sustainable way), plant-based deodorants are your ticket to safer sniffing!



    So long as you're opting for a premium plant-based deodorant with probiotics, smelling clean and keeping it natural will NEVER be a trade off.  So let’s laugh off the stereotypes and roll in the reality: plant-based deodorants work!
    The Rise of Plant-Based Soaps - Benefits for your Skin and the Environment

    The Rise of Plant-Based Soaps - Benefits for your Skin and the Environment

    Ever question if your soap is clean? Not in the literal sense, but in its ingredients. Many soaps are more 'chemical cocktail' than 'cleanse and care'. But fear not, there's a hero in the soap dish: plant-based soaps! They're like a kale smoothie for your skin, all-natural and full of goodness. So swap your synthetic suds for these green gems! Not only will you be scrubbing up your hygiene routine, but also your environmental impact. 


    Generic soaps versus plant-based 


    We rarely consider our soap to be a problem. Since we’re too busy putting a magnifying glass to the formulas for our facial products, we often neglect to inspect the quality of our body cleansers!  To offer some much-needed clarity, let’s consider the key differences between your average drugstore-caliber soap, versus a plant-based boutique version.  


    Standard soaps 


    Standard soap contains sulfates, parabens and perfumes—a trifecta of toxins—along with a laundry list of other skin-drying chemicals. So although yes, you’re technically getting a “deep clean”, using a harsh antiseptic to bulldoze through bacteria and grease, will also hurt your skin in the process. These powerful suds alter your skin’s acidity and protective moisture barrier, resulting in dryness and irritation. 


    Plant-based soaps 


    By switching to a plant-based soap, we’re getting all those deep-cleaning benefits without the drawbacks.  Instead of harmful additives, we’re using calming botanical oils to gently cleanse and strengthen our skin. 


    Look for artisanal creations, made in limited quantities, like this luxury organic soap! It features shea butter which coats the skin in nourishing fatty acids, while coconut milk (drenched in minerals) works to protect collagen and elasticity. There’s also olive oil, a classic ingredient working as both an antibacterial and softening agent. 


    All working in synergy to leave skin cloud-supple and smooth, this high-end mixture even includes probiotics to protect the dermal barrier even further! These “good microbes” help balance the ratio of harmful bacteria with the friendly ones, maintaining an overall healthy ecosystem in the microbiome


    A price comparison


    This army of plant-based benefits is why boutique soaps are far more expensive than drugstore versions. Needless to say, due to high quality standards and pricy ingredients, the plant-based formulas are much more expensive to manufacture—which is why many major brands opt for cheaper shortcuts in the development process. 


    Yet, to create the illusion of quality, these basic soaps may still feature one or two “hero ingredients” like a nut butter or fruit extract, distracting us from the other not-so-friendly culprits on the ingredient list. Ultimately, however, getting luxury results far outweigh the cons of the standard chemical soaps. 


    Our soapy footprint 


    Ever think our shower could double as an environmental hazard? Think about what goes down our drains! Standard soaps carry tons of chemicals into our water systems, eventually increasing toxicity levels of our oceans. That’s why plant-based soaps are also an integral part of the #bluebeauty movement!


    These eco-crusaders lather up a storm while washing away our eco-guilt. Each sudsy experience is akin to giving the planet a gentle, moisturizing hug. Sweet, right?!  


    So, lather, rinse, repeat and rejoice! Because with plant-based soaps, keeping clean just got a whole lot cleaner (and smarter).

    Why You Need a Vitamin C Booster for Aging Gracefully

    Why You Need a Vitamin C Booster for Aging Gracefully

     

    In today’s advanced skincare scene, education is king! And the smarter we get about formulas and their claims, we become sharper shoppers who know how to decode product labels and read between the fluff. So naturally, when it comes to a popular headliner like vitamin C, the head honcho of beauty ingredients (after hyaluronic acid, of course), it’s crucial to know why it deserves its rep. So in the name of aging gracefully, it’s time to unpack vitamin C boosters once and for all!

     

    What’s a vitamin C booster? 

     

    Think of vitamin C as a youth saver—in a booster formulation, there are higher amounts of this active ingredient than a serum. So essentially, a vitamin C booster delivers a deeper dose of antioxidants to our skin, protecting the cells from its enemy, free radicals.

     

    Benefits of a vitamin C booster

     

    A vitamin C booster is the ultimate multitasker for aging gracefully. Let’s review all its perks!

     

    Tightens fine lines 

     

    A vitamin C booster improves fine lines by stimulating collagen—the vital protein for skin structure and elasticity. By fending off free radicals, it protects our collagen, allowing it to flourish freely so our cells stay plump and strong!

     

    Overtime, with a vitamin C booster, you’ll notice fewer fine lines around common crinkle areas like the forehead and under eyes. 

     

    Brightens our complexion 

     

    Although vitamin C boosters aren’t technically exfoliants, they do help shed dead skin cells, revealing a brighter and smoother complexion underneath! Additionally, some vitamin C boosters may contain other resurfacing ingredients, such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), which can further enhance the exfoliation process when used in combination with vitamin C.

     

    If you have sensitive skin, opt for a vitamin C booster containing skin-calming agents, like soothing aloe vera or witch hazel, to help calm inflammation. Remember that vitamin C is still an acid afterall, and for some, a skin aggravator! In this case, you may consider applying the booster on alternating days to give your skin time to recover.

     

    Fades dark spots 

     

    From acne scars to hyperpigmentation, vitamin C boosters help fade it all! By slowing down the production of melanin (a pigment maker), it reduces dark spots to even skin tone. Using a chemical called “tyrosinase inhibitors”, vitamin C prevents high levels of melanin from accumulating, which in turn, lightens and illuminates our skin. 

     

    To enhance these effects even further, look for vitamin C boosters with kojic acid. Together, this duo erases dark spots and scars with supercharged effectiveness! And to sprinkle even MORE fuel to this beauty bonfire, seek a formula also containing ferulic acid! Recent studies confirm that this pairing of ingredients helps vitamin C flex its benefits with greater strength. In respect to this research, the Be Well Vitamin C Booster was designed to provide results in line with this advanced scientific breakthrough.

     

    Fights UV damage 

     

    Picture this: when the sunlight coats our skin, it gets absorbed by our skin cells (along with UV damage) which accelerates the aging process. Since vitamin C is an antioxidant, it contains chemical powers to minimize the level of UV damage

     

    In science terms, at the molecular level, here’s what’s happening: vitamin C donates electrons from its own collection. By doing so, it stabilizes the free radicals from UV light, neutralizing its reactivity and preventing it from scavenging electrons from other precious molecules (like our skin!!!). 

     

    In the realm of skincare, vitamin C boosters are the key to aging gracefully. Just keep in mind, however, that vitamin C boosters are NOT a replacement for daily SPF. Always (absolutely always!!!) layer an SPF lotion over your skin booster for that double-duty layer of protection.