Category Archives: acne

Pumpkins aren’t just for pies: pumpkin seed oil

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

Pumpkins aren’t just for pies: pumpkin seed oil

Pumpkin History

Before we talk about pumpkin seed oil, let’s talk about the fruit. Yes, the countless varieties of pumpkins are in the same family as squash, cucumbers and melons. Its origin dates back to about 5000 B.C. in North America. Pumpkins are among the most versatile fruits that exist.

The shells were used to make bowls and mats by Native Americans. Medicinally, they have been used to treat acne, fever, parasites, and kidney problems etc. etc. Long a staple in diets, the flowers seeds and meat are considered delicacies in certain cultures. Pumpkin seeds have even been recommended by the World Health Organization for its abundance in zinc.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

We all know about the virtues of pumpkin pies and roasted seeds, but the pumpkin seed oil is the prize for me. Pumpkin seed oil is packed with everything you need for glowing skin. The seeds are cold pressed to obtain the oil that makes a dark green light oil with a slight nutty aroma. It is not a heavy oil like coconut oil and will therefore not clog your pores.

Benefits for the skin and hair

This powerhouse of an oil is packed with fatty acids, alpha hydroxyl acid, Vitamins A, C, E and zinc. These ingredients are all needed to boost collagen production, increase cell renewal that brighten and smooth the skin.

Research by the University of Maryland Medical Center has indicated that the oil is beneficial to hair and skin. Why? The omega 6 fatty acids are vital to help stimulate hair and skin growth. The vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids are essential for hair growth. The oil can decrease the production of the enzyme, 5 alpha reductase, that is responsible for slowing hair growth.

Vitamin K in pumpkin seed oil is known to reduce swelling, healing and bruising after surgery. It is also applied to the skin to help with rosacea, acne and spider veins according to WebMD.  We love pumpkin seed oil so much that you can find it our nourishing body oil and body oil.

So the next time you carve that pumpkin or make pumpkin pie, keeps the seeds. 

Grapeseed Oil – Benefits for your skin

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

What are the benefits of grapeseed oil? Grapes have been touted for over 6,000 years for their medicinal properties. However, grapeseed oil only surfaced in the 20th century.

Grape seed oil benefits

Grapeseed oil benefits are many. Light and non-greasy, it is non-comedogenic and will not clog your pores.  Quickly absorbed by the skin, it will leave skin hydrated and smooth.

Grapeseed oil is full of flavonoids, anti-oxidants, linoleic acid and Vitamin C and E that remove debris and free radicals. These components promote the rejuvenation of collagen increasing the skin’s elasticity. Scientists have found that the linoleic acid naturally present in the oil is beneficial for the treatment of dermatitis, allergic reactions, eczema, and dry and itchy skin. 

Grape seeds are cold pressed to produce the light oil. The same grapes that are used for wine are used for their seeds.  This makes the grape business double duty in some ways. The finished product has a 2 year shelf life but should be kept refrigerated to prevent rancidity. The color is light green with a slightly nutty aroma.

Our certified organic marigold bergamot dry oil is made with organic grapeseed oil and jojoba oil infused with calendula and bergamot. Our customers prone to break outs swear by it. They first cleanse with our marigold foaming cleanser, then apply the dry oil. Some follow up with a spritz of marigold toner.

Grape seed oil is a wonderful alternative to the harsh peels and/or chemicals for blemish prone skin.

Witch Hazel

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson
06 Dec

 

 

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is finishing blooiming here in the mountains of North Georgia. A native plant it is a naturally powerful ingredient in HollyBeth Organics’ Marigold Toner and Pore Clarifying Mask.

Origins  

Witch hazel is native to the US and used by Native Americans to treat colds, eye infections, kidney problems, skin conditions, stings and wounds. Today it is widely known as an astringent and effective acne treatment.

In the Wild

The plant is interesting for numerous reasons. As one of the few plants to go to full bloom in fall and winter, it is one of the only food sources for insect life (flies, midges, beetles) that tolerates the cold, thereby holding a monopoly over wintertime pollination—an interesting ecological niche! Witch hazel’s seeding mechanism is very unique. The previous year’s seed capsules mature at the same time as its current year’s flowers, and quite often one can hear an audible popping sound as the seeds are forcefully ejected up to 25 out from the tree like bullets.

Animal Favorite

Witch hazel is also a major part of animal life. It often grows in dense thickets, providing cover for birds and small mammals. The seeds provide food for insects, wild turkeys, bobwhite quail, as well as gray squirrels. Furthermore, ruffed grouse and white tailed deer feed upon the buds and flowers.

Skin Care Benefits

Witch hazel is amazingly beneficial to the skin. Its natural astringent properties make it a great tool against acne, regulating oil production and reducing inflammation. It also helps reduce puffiness and tighten skin, making it a great defense against under eye bags. Feeling oily or grimy? Witch hazel is a great skin refresher. It cleanses and purifies, calming the pores and soothing the skin while gently hydrating and restoring natural balance. Suffering from razor burns or sun burns? Try a little witch hazel to calm the area and soothe irritation. Want a product that conquers all of these concerns? Click here to discover HollyBeth Organics’ witch hazel based Marigold Toner.

Bergamot

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

Bergamot Origin

Bergamot has been used for hundreds of years by perfumers in Western Europe for its ability to mingle with other fragrances. Its medicinal history dates back to the 16th century when the Italians used the oil for fevers, as an antiseptic, for respiratory problems and skin ailments.

The tree has a curious history. Some say that the evergreen tree is a cross between an orange and lemon and others say it is a cross with a grapefruit. There are those who argue that it is native to Asia and others to Greece. Another legend is that Christopher Columbus took the tree to the Caribbean and elsewhere where it was used in voodoo to protect oneself against harm.

Whatever the history, it appears that the name came from Bergamo in Lombardy, Italy where it was first sold.  It is the Italians who have the largest production of bergamots. The Greeks attest that the name came from Turkish word meaning “the lord’s pear”.

Bergamot Essential Oil

The tree is relatively small, growing only to 13 feet. The small fruit itself is yellow when ripe and is sour and basically non-edible. It is the peel that is cold pressed to make the fruit. It takes approximately 100 bergamots to make 3 ounces of oil.

The components make it useful as an antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antidepressant  essential oil. It is known to be a rival of lavender essential when relaxing the mind.

The aroma is crisp, tart with a peppery spicy undertone. You can find bergamot essential oil in HollyBeth’s flourish roll on perfume, marigold bergamot dry oil, citrus cream and citrus spray.

Can Bergamot Oil Help Acne?

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

Can bergamot oil help acne? For those of us with blemish-prone skin, facial products containing oil tend to send us running in the opposite direction. My skin is already oily, and I don’t want to clog my pores with a greasy product.

Bergamot Dry Oil Combats Oily Skin

HollyBeth Organics’ Marigold Bergamot Dry Oil is different. It is not heavy oil that sits on top of your skin. It is actually a dry oil, meaning it sinks directly into the skin to heal and balance from below the surface. This lightweight moisturizer is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores (and we all know clogged pores can lead to more pimples!).  A powerful combination of grape seed, jojoba, calendula, and bergamot oil help acne, heal scars, and cure minor skin irritations while gently moisturizing and balancing the skin.

Lightweight Moisturizer

Not only is Marigold Bergamot Dry Oil a great anti-acne defense, it is also a lightweight moisturizer. On clean, dry skin, gently massage a small amount on your face and neck (a little goes a long way). Your skin will be soothed and hydrated – it is the perfect daily moisturizer for normal to oily skin.

I have to admit, I was a skeptic myself when I first looked into using bergamot oil, but I gave it a try and found it to be one of the best solutions for my blemish-prone skin. I even use it at night to help prevent future breakouts! This stuff is liquid anti-acne gold.

Calendula

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson
15 Mar

Calendula

Calendula, a versatile herb, is the essential oil from the pot marigold. This plant has been used since the 12th century for its medicinal properties. Studies abound on its healing ability on the skin specifically on burn victims. Due to its high level of vitamin A compounds (carotenoids) it is also known to calm skin irritations such as rashes, dermatitis, acne and chapped skin. Cream made with calendula, is recommended to those with breast cancer to ease dermatitis and skin challenges during radiation and chemo.

It is known as the poor man’s saffron as it can be used in cooking as a substitute. The petals also make a lovely dye. Another benefit of marigolds is Mother Nature’s bug repellant, planting them around your tomatoes so the bugs won’t eat them. Marigold petals are edible and add a lovely tang to salads.

Marigolds

Marigolds native to Mexico, were taken to Europe and Asia in the 16th century. There are over 50 species of this earthy plant. To the Welsh, marigolds were “herb of the sun” and if they were not open in the morning a storm was coming. They were used as love charms, and were thought to produce visions of fairies if rubbed on the eyes. Others considered marigold poisonous due to the heavy aroma. In Mexico we were surrounded by marigolds on dia de los muertos, and while in India marigolds were omnipresent. Ironically it wasn’t in Mexico that I learned to appreciate marigolds but in Thailand and India.

We use calendula oil in our marigold toner, marigold bergamot dry oil, marigold cleanser and marigold face kit.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

grapefruitpic

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit essential oil is a great addition to one’s wellness routine. It is full of vitamin C and antioxidants. HollyBeth uses grapefruit essential oil in several of her products, for it greatly benefits the health of the skin.

Origins of The Grapefruit

Grapefruit, Citirus Paradici, is the only citrus fruit whose beginnings are rooted in the West Indies, rather than Southeast Asia. Some believe Captain Shaddock introduced pomelo seeds to Jamaica, therefore engendering an accidental hybrid of sweet orange and pomelo called the forbidden fruit. There is no record to back up this theory, therefore scientists believe the grapefruit is a natural hybrid. In 1750, the Rev. Griffith Hughes writes of the forbidden fruit in his book the Natural History of Barbados, the hybrid’s first documented mention. In the 1800’s, a farmer dubbed the forbidden fruit grapefruit for the way it grows in grape-like clusters. The grapefruit eventually made its way to the US in 1823 thanks to French settlers.

Benefits

The rind of the grapefruit is cold-pressed for essential oil. The oil aids digestion, boosts  immunity, and works as an antiseptic. Its fragrance also helps with fatigue and anxiety. Most of all, grapefruit essential oil nourishes the skin. It cleanses and purifies, calming irritation and balancing the skin, while boosting the skin’s immunity. It is a great aid in clearing acne and oily skin, as well as regulating the production of sebum and skin irritations. Plus, it smells amazing!

Grapefruit Essential Oil Skin Care Solutions

HollyBeth uses grapefruit essential oil in several of her products because of its many benefits. You can find grapefruit essential oil hard at work in her Marigold Foaming Facial Cleanser, a must-have for acne-prone skin. Her Body Mist utilizes the oil for hydration, while her Body Balm packs Vitamin C into the skin. A huge thank you to the grapefruit for its amazing essential oil!

Nighttime Skin Care Routine: 3 Steps to Cleanse, Protect, & Nourish

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

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Improve Your Skin While You Sleep

Your nighttime skin care routine plays an important role in the condition of your skin. Those eight hours of sleep (well, maybe more like 5 – 8 hours depending on life’s busy schedule) are prime time for your body to relax, recuperate, and repair.  Help your skin to take advantage of your slumber with some pre-sleep face prep.

Wash Away the Day

I never go to bed without washing my face. My go-to nightly face wash is HollyBeth Organics’ Chamomile Foaming Cleanser. For normal to dry skin, this face wash beautifully cleanses the skin without stripping it of moisture.  100% USDA certified organic, HollyBeth’s Chamomile Foaming Face Cleanser is made from the goodness of Mother Nature, meaning there are no chemicals or artificial ingredients that will linger behind on your skin. Skin is naturally cleansed, balanced, and prepped for the next step in my nighttime skin care routine.

Combat Irritation

With blemish-prone skin, I like a little extra insurance to protect me from future breakouts. HollyBeth Organics’ Marigold Bergamot Dry Oil is my solution. A few drops applied to my freshly washed skin protect and repair from below the surface, maintaining the skin’s natural balance while combating irritation and acne. And because it is dry oil, there is no greasy film or heavy buildup. It sinks directly into the skin and won’t clog pores.

Nourish the Eye Area

The final step in my nighttime skin care routine is HollyBeth Organics’ Eye Cream. A fan favorite and best seller, HollyBeth’s Eye Cream hydrates, smoothes, and invigorates the eye area, allowing you to wake up refreshed and dark circle free. My husband and I won’t go to bed without it!

Cleanse, protect, and nourish while you sleep with a little extra help from HollyBeth Organics’ 100 % USDA certified skin care solutions.

Know Your Skin Type

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

HollyBeth Luxury Rose Geranium Face Moisturizer

 

Many factors play a role in the condition of your skin, including hormones, climate, and age. It is important to recognize the state of your skin in order to find the right products to restore balance.

Dry Skin

Skin feeling dehydrated, tight, and flakey? You are experiencing dry skin, which indicates a lack of moisture. Overexposure to cold or heat, excess use of cleansing products, or a natural result of aging can leave your skin dehydrated. Go for hydrating cleansers and thicker moisturizers, while avoiding heavy toners and chemical-based products that zap oil production and dry out the skin.

Check out HollyBeth Organics’ Rose Geranium Face Moisturizer, the perfect face hydrator for those in need of extra moisture.

Oily Skin

Prone to a shiny t-zone area? Your body is over-producing sebum, on oily substance made by your sebaceous glands to protect against dryness. Hormone changes or exposure to heat may be responsible for oily skin. Go for lightweight products that won’t clog pores and natural ingredients like grapeseed that help regulate oil production. Try to avoid over-cleansing, as this can dry out the skin, encouraging your sebaceous glands to secrete more oil to compensate for the loss of moisture.

Try HollyBeth Organics’ Marigold Bergamot Dry Oil, a lightweight dry oil that quickly absorbs into the skin to restore balance and reduce oiliness – its antiseptic properties help fight acne as well!

Sensitive Skin

Notice your skin gets splotchy, irritated, or itchy when you change your beauty routine or experience a new environment? You may have sensitive skin, which can be caused by an allergy or reaction to extreme weather. Keep track of what irritates you and steer clear of products with foreign ingredients. Go for organic products with natural ingredients and keep it simple.

Use a cleanser like HollyBeth Organics’ Marigold Foaming Cleanser. It is gentle on skin while combating oil and removing makeup (and like all HollyBeth Organics products, it is 100% USDA Certified Organic!).

Most of us will experience all of these skin conditions, so make sure to maintain balance with the help of the right products.

The Quest for Clear Skin

Posted on by HollyBeth Anderson

Skincare products for treating Acne

 

The Path to Clear Skin

I figured at my age acne was a thing of the past, and that one of the perks of getting older would be saying goodbye to breakouts forever. Wrong! At age thirty-something, I still have to deal with random pimples popping up; however, with age comes wisdom, and in all my years of battling blemishes, I’ve come to discover less is more and natural is better.

In My Teenage Years

Chemical-based products promising fast results dominated my bathroom shelves. I wanted that zit gone as fast as possible, so I piled on the benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, horribly drying out my skin, even badly burning it at times. My skin never reached a healthy balance, for it was in a damaging cycle of oily, broken out, then severely dry, due to my over-use of harsh drug store products.

As I Approached My Twenties

I decided to let the professionals give it try. Upon the orders of my Dermatologist, a strict regimen of prescription-strength topicals and anti-biotics would be the best course of action to conquer my acne. Though both solutions provided semi-successful results, my doctor required routine blood tests and visits to make sure there were no damaging side effects from the treatment. Kind of a scary give and take, right? I knew this would only be a short-term solution.

Now In My Thirties

I’m focusing on long-term, healthy solutions to skincare. Heavy chemicals and medications were only suppressing my skin’s needs, not nourishing them! I discovered all-natural, organic products brought my skin back to life, clearing away my blemishes and giving me radiant skin. Finally, I don’t have to dry out my skin to have a clear, glowing complexion, thanks to HollyBeth Organics’ blemish-fighting Marigold Face Kit.

Each Marigold Face Kit comes with HollyBeth Organics’ Marigold Foaming Cleanser, Marigold Toner, and Marigold Bergamot Dry Oil. Marigold /Calendula oil’s antibacterial, healing properties calm acne and skin irritations with Vitamin A compounds. These Calendula oil-based skin solutions cleanse and balance the skin with powerful anti-oxidants and detoxifying essential oils such as sandalwood, grapefruit, and lavender. Your skin will find perfect balance, feeling soothed and refreshed while staying moisturized, clean, and protected.

Trust me, I’ve been on the clear skin quest for decades. Let go of chemicals and embrace organic. Your skin will thank you!