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< Back L-Arginine A natural non-essential amino acid the body produces on its own. Amino acids are vital for the skin. Not just for hydration, they have antioxidant properties and protect the skin from free radical damage and premature skin aging. Arginine has soothing properties and helps to alleviate signs of skin damage. Studies demonstrated that: “anti-aging benefits of l-arginine show promises greater than any pharmaceutical or nutraceutical agent ever previously discovered.” “anti-aging benefits of l-arginine show promises greater than any pharmaceutical or nutraceutical agent ever previously discovered.” (1) References (1) Gad, Mohamed Z. “Anti-Aging Effects of L-Arginine.” Journal of Advanced Research, vol. 1, no. 3, July 2010, pp. 169–177, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jare.2010.05.001 . Previous Next

< Back Olive Squalane Helps restore the concentration of natural squalene to more youthful levels (1) . Squalane is a natural component that comprises (around 13%) of our skin sebum and protects our lipid skin barrier from oxidation (2) . With age, we lose the capacity to produce the same amount of squalene therefore making our skin more vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays and other oxidative factors. Squalene has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and swelling. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won't clog the pores. It moisturizes and soothes dry, rough, and textured skin. It helps skin retain moisture by preventing excessive trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) (3) . Enhances skin's natural barrier against harmful environmental factors. References (1, 2, & 3) Kim, Se-Kwon, and Fatih Karadeniz. “Chapter 14 - Biological Importance and Applications of Squalene and Squalane.” ScienceDirect, Academic Press, 1 Jan. 2012, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780124160033000147?via%3Dihub . Previous Next

< Back Liquorice LIQUORICE, one of our star ingredients may help avoid the formation of skin hyperpigmentation (1) or dark spots, several studies suggest, as it contains mainly Glabridin (2) , a powerful polyphenolic flavonoid that disperses melanin production (3) , resulting from exposure to the UVB Ultraviolet rays from the sun. References (1) Sarkar, Rashmi, et al. “Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What Is Available?” Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, vol. 6, no. 1, 2013, p. 4, https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.110089. Accessed 13 Oct. 2019. Previous Next

Bringing new life into the world is a beautiful experience, but it can also take a toll on a woman's body, especially her skin. After giving birth, many women notice significant changes like dryness, discoloration, and a loss of elasticity. Fortunately, natural ingredients offer effective solutions to help rejuvenate and restore that radiant glow. A woman tenderly moisturizes her growing belly with Soufflé Body Butter by Tools of Nature, to nourish her skin and prevent stretch marks. This blog post will explore the powerful benefits of natural ingredients tailored for postpartum skincare. By understanding these ingredients and how to include them in your routine, new mothers can embark on their journey toward healthy, vibrant skin. Understanding Postpartum Skin Changes The postpartum period brings a surge of hormonal changes, which can greatly affect a woman's skin. For instance, an increase in melanin can lead to discoloration, often referred to as "the mask of pregnancy" or melasma. Studies show that nearly 50% of women experience some degree of melasma after childbirth. In addition, conditions like stretch marks and dryness can occur due to rapid skin stretching and fluctuating hormones. While these challenges can be overwhelming, the right natural ingredients can provide relief and support for skin rejuvenation. The Power of Hydration: Aloe Vera Aloe vera is celebrated for its impressive hydrating properties. This succulent plant is packed with vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that nourish the skin while soothing irritation. For postpartum skincare, aloe vera is particularly helpful in calming inflammation and hydrating without clogging pores. Using pure aloe vera gel can hydrate the skin while promoting healing. It boasts antimicrobial properties, which can help minimize breakouts—especially beneficial for those dealing with hormonal acne after childbirth. Incorporating just a tablespoon of aloe vera gel daily can lead to significantly softer skin within a week. Healing and Nourishing: Rosehip Oil Rosehip oil is a game-changer for improving skin texture and tone. Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins A and C, this oil excels in diminishing the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Research shows that consistent use of rosehip oil can lead to a 40% reduction in the visibility of stretch marks over a few months. Applying rosehip oil daily supports better skin elasticity, which may have been challenged during pregnancy. It also promotes collagen production, aiding in tissue regeneration for a healthier, firmer complexion. Natural Brightener: Licorice Root Extract Postpartum skin often faces issues with discoloration, and licorice root extract offers a potent solution. This botanical extract contains glabridin, which inhibits melanin production, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation. A study revealed that products with licorice root extract reduced dark spots by up to 30% within 4 weeks. Incorporating skincare products with licorice root extract into your routine can help even out skin tone and enhance radiance. Its gentle formulation is suitable for daily use across all skin types, making it an excellent choice for postpartum care. Calming Sensitivities: Calendula Oil Sensitive skin is common during the postpartum period, leading to increased redness and irritation. Calendula oil serves as a soothing ingredient with notable anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for calming aggravated skin. Incorporating calendula oil into your regimen can effectively reduce redness, benefiting those dealing with conditions like rosacea or post-acne marks. Additionally, its calming aroma can help promote relaxation, contributing to better emotional well-being during a hectic time. Restoring Elasticity: Shea Butter Shea butter stands out for its exceptional moisturizing abilities. Derived from the nuts of the shea tree, it is rich in vitamins A, E, and F, all essential for skin health. Research shows that regular use of shea butter can improve skin elasticity by up to 25%, making it notably effective in preventing and treating stretch marks. Its thick consistency forms a protective barrier that locks in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated throughout the day. Apply shea butter generously to the abdomen, thighs, and breasts to support skin health during postpartum recovery. ```html The Antioxidant Boost: Sea Buckthorn Sea buckthorn is not just a nourishing fruit; it also provides powerful antioxidants for your skin. Packed with vitamins and fatty acids, it helps combat inflammation and neutralizes free radicals that can damage your skin. Regularly using skincare products infused with sea buckthorn can noticeably improve skin health and appearance. This ingredient is particularly useful for women experiencing breakouts or dullness following childbirth, as it can restore a brighter, more youthful glow. In addition to its skin benefits, sea buckthorn is rich in omega-7 fatty acids, which are known to support skin hydration and elasticity. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a plump and youthful complexion. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of sea buckthorn can soothe irritated skin and reduce redness, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Its high vitamin C content also aids in collagen production, further enhancing skin firmness and reducing the appearance of fine lines. In summary, incorporating sea buckthorn into your skincare routine can provide: Powerful antioxidants to protect against environmental damage Hydration and elasticity support Soothing effects for irritated skin Enhanced collagen production for firmer skin Embrace the benefits of sea buckthorn and enjoy healthier, more radiant skin. ``` Crafting Your Natural Skincare Routine Beginning a new skincare routine may feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Here’s a simple approach: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities while retaining the skin's natural oils. Follow up with a toner containing aloe vera or chamomile to enhance hydration. Use a deep moisturizer with shea butter and licorice rootsuch as Neroli Magic Moisturizer or a combination of nourishing oils like rosehip and jojoba found in Tools of Nature's Stress Melt Night Cream . Finish off with serums such as Stress Melt Serum that include Sea buckthorn and Calendula Oils to calm, nourish and seal hydration. Consistency is crucial. Dedicating time to a simple skincare routine allows moms to experience the transformative benefits of these natural ingredients, even amid the challenges of new motherhood. Embracing the Journey Toward Healthier Skin Natural ingredients hold incredible potential for transforming postpartum skin, providing hydration, healing, and rejuvenation. As mothers navigate the changes that come with this new chapter, embracing these natural solutions fosters self-care and personal renewal. By understanding the advantages of aloe vera, rosehip oil, licorice root extract, shea butter, sea buckthorn oil , calendula oil, and green tea extract, mothers can proactively work towards restoring their skin's health. Celebrate this transformative journey with confidence, knowing that nature offers effective support for your postpartum experience.

The search for the fountain of youth is like a nonstop hamster wheel. Breakthrough treatments are invented every day and old ones discarded as smelly old socks. We use them and believe in them until inevitably a new one comes along with a better argument. Thankfully, good research is also available to inform us and keep us on our toes. What are we looking for? I, for one, would adore a magic trick that could reverse all my bad decisions, and magically reverse all the consequences I didn’t care about at the time. Like laying out in the sun for hours with just barely SPF sunscreen, if any. Oh, I want it. We keep our hopes up while we ride the latest magic carpet until it crashes because it doesn’t work immediately as promised, and we go on to look for a better one. Sounds familiar? I don’t mean to be so skeptical, well, maybe I do, but my skepticism has a purpose. If we look at the blue zones (1) , the longevity of their inhabitants doesn’t stem from just one factor. It’s a unique set of elements like the pieces of a puzzle that form a whole. Great results show after years and years of people organically doing something right. Following that line of thought we could apply the principle to change that which we can control. To understand what we can do for our skin, let’s look at our skin anatomy. Imagine that our epidermal barrier is like a wall of bricks. This is the outer most superficial layer of our skin, the one that protects us from the outside world and works nonstop to reject microbes, to neutralize the constant environmental attacks, and to prevent dehydration, by regulating TEWL (Trans-Epidermal Water Loss.) These bricks constantly fall, new ones taking their place. This is normal. We need to maintain this protective barrier in optimal condition to keep it balanced. This involves several elements. Some are external, such as our daily skin care routine; and work from the outside in, and others are internal, such as drink and food; and work from the inside out. A smooth, hydrated, and well-balanced skin barrier will make us glow from the inside. My theory is that we know in our gut what we have to do, and we can do with a little reminder. We just ignore it because we think there is always tomorrow. But in a sense, there isn’t. Either we take action and care of ourselves, or our skin bricks won’t rejuvenate as efficiently, and this can result in dry crepe-y skin, open pores, and many other signs of premature skin aging. Our body and mind must be in harmony. This will imbue them with the same purpose. Let’s manifest that as an intent. We will let them feel our determination. Create our own “zone,” and prioritize each one of the factors that we can control until we make them our own. That way we can turn our wish into a decision, and our body will fall in line with our mindset. This is the toughest stage; to make the decision. As soon as we start, not only will we begin to feel your whole body responding, but we will immediately reap the benefits on our skin. 1. Sleep Ramp up your sleep hygiene. Try to turn off all screens at least an hour before bed and make a ritual out of it. I suggest doing some breathing exercise to calm your nervous system and prime you for the best sleep of your life. Your “beauty sleep.” It may be difficult at first to get used to this, but the benefits will outweigh the initial discomfort. My mother passed away at age 89, with her skin unlined, and her cheeks rosy. Her secret? Sleep. So simple yet… for some, not at all. If you are in this group, pay close attention to #3 . 2. Drink Enough H2O H2O. You may have heard this one before – but drinking water will improve your skin’s health! If you don’t own one already, get yourself a 1-liter reusable water bottle to help you monitor how much water you can drink in a day. When your body receives enough water (2) , the cells in every part of your body get hydrated through the blood. Being the largest organ in the body, the skin is programmed to flush toxins and impurities on a cellular level (3) . When it’s hydrated, the process functions more effectively and quickly, leaving your skin smooth and vibrant, showing a healthy glowing complexion. How much water do you actually need to drink in a day? Registered Dietitian & Holistic Nutritionist, Galit S. Zarco, MS RD LDN (4) , shares her professional advice on the topic and recommends calculating your personal amount of daily water intake based on your current weight. Dividing your current weight (in pounds) by two will provide you with the ideal number of ounces per day that your body needs to be sufficiently hydrated. For example, if you weigh 128 lbs., half of that is 64; therefore, focusing on drinking 64 oz of water per day is your number. That is, 8 glasses, 8 oz each. If your calculated number seems too high, Galit Zarco recommends starting with 1 Liter (32 oz) of water and working your way up to your ideal number of ounces. You’ll be an avid water drinker in no time! And your skin will thank you! Formula: (Your weight (lbs.)/ 2) = __ Ounces of (ideal daily water intake of) (5) A challenge? Definitely. -tell me about it- But your skin will show the benefits, being the largest organ in the body, as it gets hydrated (6) , even while the impurities and toxins get flushed out at the cellular level. 3. Meditate Start with five minutes a day. Breathe slow and deep and relax your body and your mind. Let them rest for a few minutes. Disconnect. Some people tell me: “I’ve never meditated in my life.” “I don’t know how.” But when you were a child and your mind just wandered off enjoying its journey until some pesky adult interrupted your daydreaming… You were, in fact, meditating. As children, we have no filter in our minds. We let it go at will where it wants to go. We hear each sound, perceive every color, notice every detail, identify each smell, and the most importantly; we let ourselves feel without restraint. That is a lot like what we do when we seek a meditative state. We become aware and acknowledge the universal orchestra. We don’t have to be in a quiet place with our legs crossed to achieve this. We can be anywhere, -even riding on a car- and meditating at the same time. We accept the surroundings, we take in every nuance of our bodies, every itch, every pain, every feeling. We relax conscientiously, until we let go of our worries, we relinquish all of us to the universe, and quiet our mind for a little while. It calms the mind. This relaxation of mind and body is especially beneficial to those who find it difficult to sleep all night. A few minutes of relaxation will recharge your tired body with energy. And that takes me to the next: 4. Breathe Deeply Try to make it a habit to breathe deep and slow every time you remember allowing that wonderful healing oxygen to reach every cell. It will relax both the body and the mind and reduce any signs of stress. We secrete cortisol (7) when we are under stress, a harmful hormone at high levels, particularly when we maintain that state for long (8) . This may cause dry skin, wrinkles, and other premature signs of aging (9) . Oxygen helps reduce cortisol levels (10) and relaxes our muscles. When you can, stretch a deep breath counting to 8 or even 10 while closing your eyes. Breathe deeply often and calm your mind. It will soon show on your stress-free skin. 5. Stay Active Incorporate an exercise routine to your day. To achieve this, create small realistic goals: Walk, dance, or do some yoga, get on the elliptical, or go bike riding. If you can, use some resistance bands or light weights to help increase your bone density. Repetition is the key. “Both aerobic and resistance training exercise can provide weight-bearing stimulus to bone, yet research indicates that resistance training may have a more profound site-specific effect than aerobic exercise.” (11) (Layne JE1, Nelson ME). Listen to some music and in any case, have fun doing it. 6. Eat Healthy Fruits and salads hydrate us at the cellular level. Drink warm tea after meals, and it wouldn’t hurt to consult a nutritionist, to get a comprehensive plan for you, to help you manage your own food sensitivities issues. In the end, your skin will be grateful. 7. Use Quality Skin Care Because the skin is the largest organ you have, use products that match the high level of awareness you manifested when you informed your body and mind of your intent. Read all product labels and educate yourself about the stuff they put in your products. Check that the ingredients are harmless, the brand ethical and transparent. I recommend incorporating Neroli Magic Moisturizer by Tools of Nature to your skincare routine. This is a nourishing and rejuvenating face cream formulated with a perfect pH balance, and a subtle and inspiring aroma. Rich in active plant botanicals and high-performance ingredients, it hydrates, prevents dark spots, leaving your skin soft, and lovely without using harmful synthetics, such as colorants, fragrances, parabens, GMOs, or petroleum. Neroli Magic Moisturizer is packed in UV violet glass to prevent oxidation. It is made with infinite love using the powerful tools that nature has given us, combining them in synergistic action and harmony to gift you with numerous benefits, like building blocks. The goal is to keep the skin barrier balanced and protected, which in turn will make your skin look smoother and fresher, more supple and toned. Apply it after cleansing every morning. It’s not greasy, so make-up can be applied immediately after. Tools of Nature , skin care for the soul. We have enumerated seven essential elements that you can easily implement to have gorgeous skin, without spending thousands of dollars in the process to achieve it. Your skin will thank you as it shows the results. Follow us here https://linktr.ee/toolsofnature for more interesting skin news! With love, Tools of Nature Team [1] Appel, Lawrence J. “Dietary Patterns and Longevity.” Circulation, vol. 118, no. 3, 15 July 2008, pp. 214–215, https://doi.org/10.1161/circulationaha.108.788497 . [2] Benelam, B., and L. Wyness. “Hydration and Health: A Review.” Nutrition Bulletin, vol. 35, no. 1, Mar. 2010, pp. 3–25, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1467-3010.2009.01795.x , https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-3010.2009.01795.x . [3]Lahane, Prashant, Jayshree Aher, and Anita Thengade. "Brain-Skin Connection: Stress, Inflammation and Skin Aging." Mathematical Statistician, [4] http://www.eatlivenutrition.com , [5] If you are under the care of a health professional for any reason or condition, please consult with them. This is not medical advice, nor is intended to replace your healthcare provider’s indications. [6] HÄUSSINGER, Dieter. “The Role of Cellular Hydration in the Regulation of Cell Function*.” Biochemical Journal, vol. 313, no. 3, 1 Feb. 1996, pp. 697–710, https://doi.org/10.1042/bj3130697 . Accessed 1 May 2020. [7,8] Lahane, Prashant, Jayshree Aher, and Anita Thengade. "Brain-Skin Connection: Stress, Inflammation and Skin Aging." Mathematical Statistician and Engineering Applications 71.4 (2022): 7608-7615, [9] Chen Y, Lyga J. Brain-skin connection: stress, inflammation, and skin aging. Inflamm Allergy Drug Targets. 2014;13(3):177-90. doi: 10.2174/1871528113666140522104422. P, MID: 24853682; PMCID: PMC4082169. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4082169/ , [10] Monnazzi, Paola, et al. “Anti-Stress Effect of Yoga-Type Breathing: Modification of Salivary Cortisol, Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Following a Step-Climbing Exercise.” Stress and Health, vol. 18, no. 4, 2002, pp. 195–200, https://doi.org/10.1002/smi.938 , [11] Layne JE, Nelson ME. The effects of progressive resistance training on bone density: a review. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise. 1999 Jan;31(1):25-30. DOI: 10.1097/00005768-199901000-00006. PMID: 9927006. https://europepmc.org/article/med/9927006

Pregnancy is an incredibly transformative time in a woman's life. Not only does it change a woman's body physically, but it can also have a significant impact on her emotional wellbeing. During pregnancy, women go through many physical changes that are necessary for the development of a healthy baby. These changes include weight gain, fluid retention, and hormonal fluctuations, which can all take a toll on the skin. After giving birth, many women experience a wide range of skin changes. These changes are due to the hormonal imbalances that occur during pregnancy, the stress of labor and delivery, and the lack of sleep that comes with caring for a newborn. It is essential to understand how these changes can affect your skin and to take steps to care for it properly. One of the most common skin changes after maternity is dryness. Another common issue is the appearance of stretch marks. And finally, many women experience hyperpigmentation after giving birth. It is important to note that not all women will experience the same skin changes after maternity. Each woman's body is unique, and the changes she experiences will depend on a variety of factors, including her age, genetics, and overall health. Despite the individual nature of these skin changes, it is essential to take steps to care for your skin after giving birth. A good skincare routine can help address these issues and leave you feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. By following a few simple tips and using the right products, you can help your skin recover from the stresses of pregnancy and childbirth. In the following sections, we will discuss some of the most common post-maternity skin changes and provide tips on how to care for your skin after giving birth. We will also recommend a moisturizing product that can help address these issues and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Common skin changes after maternity After giving birth, women can experience various changes in their skin that can be unsettling and frustrating. Some of the most common skin issues faced by women after childbirth include: Acne , is a common skin issue that affects women after giving birth. Hormonal changes can cause an increase in sebum production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. These breakouts can appear on the face, chest, or back and can range from mild to severe. This can be particularly frustrating for new moms who are already dealing with the stress of caring for a newborn. Dryness , is another common skin issue that women face after giving birth. The hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy and after childbirth can cause the skin to lose moisture, leading to dryness, flakiness, and even itchiness. This can be particularly uncomfortable for women who are already dealing with the physical demands of motherhood. Stretch marks , are a common skin issue that occurs as a result of the skin stretching during pregnancy. These marks can appear on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and other areas of the body. Stretch marks can be red, purple, or silver in color and can be difficult to treat. Hyperpigmentation , is another common skin issue that women face after giving birth. This condition can cause dark patches to appear on the skin, particularly on the face. This is due to an increase in melanin production, which is triggered by hormonal changes. All of these skin issues can have a significant impact on a woman's confidence and self-esteem. It is essential to understand why these issues occur and how they can affect the skin's texture and appearance. Acne, dryness, stretch marks, and hyperpigmentation all occur due to hormonal fluctuations that take place during pregnancy and after childbirth. Additionally, the stress of caring for a newborn and lack of sleep can also contribute to these issues. According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly 90% of women experience skin changes during pregnancy and after childbirth. These changes can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life, leading to feelings of insecurity and self-doubt. It is important for women to understand that these skin changes are a natural part of the postpartum experience. While they can be frustrating and uncomfortable, there are steps that can be taken to address them. Tips for a post-maternity skincare routine Taking care of your skin after maternity is essential for restoring its health and radiance. In this section, we will provide you with actionable tips on how to take care of your skin after giving birth. Use a gentle cleanser: One of the most important things you can do for your skin after giving birth is to use a gentle cleanser. Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Opt for a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that won't disrupt the skin's natural barrier. Avoid harsh products: It's important to avoid using harsh products on your skin after giving birth. This includes products that contain alcohol, retinoids, and alpha-hydroxy acids. These ingredients can be too harsh for your sensitive skin and can cause irritation. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining healthy skin. When you are dehydrated, your skin can become dry and dull-looking. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Use a good moisturizer: A good moisturizer is essential for restoring moisture to your skin after giving birth. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. These ingredients can help to hydrate and protect your skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. Address specific skin concerns: If you are dealing with specific skin concerns like stretch marks or hyperpigmentation, consider using products that are specifically designed to address these issues. For example, a product that contains vitamin C can help to brighten your skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Create a simple yet effective skincare routine: A simple yet effective skincare routine can help you to take care of your skin without feeling overwhelmed. Start by cleansing your skin in the morning and evening, followed by a moisturizer. If you have specific skin concerns, you can add targeted treatments like serums or oils. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a simple yet effective skincare routine: Step 1: Cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening. Step 2: Apply a moisturizer that is suited for your skin type. This can be a lightweight lotion or a richer cream. With full confidence in Tools of Nature, we invite you to try our Neroli Magic Moisturizer, because it contains a variety of natural ingredients that hydrate and care for your face, allowing you to enhance that new glow that motherhood has brought to you. Step 3: If you have specific skin concerns, add targeted treatments like serums or oils. For example, if you are dealing with hyperpigmentation, you can use a vitamin C serum to brighten your skin. Step 4: Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during the day to protect your skin from sun damage. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to taking care of your skin. Stick to your skincare routine and be patient – it can take time to see results, but with the right products and habits, you can restore your skin's health and radiance after giving birth. Follow us here https://linktr.ee/toolsofnature for more interesting skin news! With love, Tools of Nature Team.