Frustrated with lackluster hair, dry skin, and brittle nails? You are not alone. There is a multi-billion dollar cosmetics industry built on your hopes and dreams of shiny hair, strong nails, and supple, hydrated skin. But do the potions and tonics you apply to your tresses leave them dull and lifeless? Are your nails prone to splitting and cracking? Are your knees ashy an hour after applying lotion? There's a reason why. (more…)
Neroli oil is a pale-yellow essential oil derived from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree (citrus aurantium). Extracted via steam distillation, neroli oil has a sweet, distinctive citrus scent and is widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy. According to legend, neroli oil is named for Anna-Marie de Nerola, an Italian aristocrat who popularized the oil in 17th century Europe. (more…)
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin required by every cell in the body. B vitamins are a class of chemically distinct vitamins that help your body process food into energy. Also known as vitamin H, coenzyme R, and vitamin B7, biotin helps the body metabolize fats, protein,[1] and carbohydrates. The human body needs biotin for normal growth and development, and the vitamin is especially critical for healthy embryonic growth. Biotin can also help maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails.[2] Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, as opposed to fat-soluble. Unused water-soluble vitamins […]
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) comes from the elder tree, which is native to Europe and parts of Asia and Africa. A related species called American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) grows across the United States and Canada. Many cultures have appreciated and relied on both elder trees for everything from musical instruments to food and medicine. In medieval Europe, the elder tree was revered as holy and reputed to have health-preserving and restorative properties.[1] For centuries, herbal remedies in the form of teas, poultices, creams, and salves have all been produced from the […]
Selenium sulfide is a chemical compound created by fusing atomic selenium (Se) and sulfur (S).[1] The selenium and sulfur combination has been shown to promote skin health and thus selenium sulfide is found in many cosmetic, hair, and skin care products. It's probably best known as an antifungal and is used to treat tinea versicolor, a fungal imbalance of the skin. Selenium sulfide helps relieve itching and flaking associated with dandruff.[2] It may also help soothe seborrhea, or seborrheic dermatitis.[3] (more…)
