Burn fat & build muscle all at the same time! EmSculpt is a unique non-surgical, non-invasive treatment that enhances muscle tone using high-intensity focused electromatic (HIFEM) technology to stimulate muscle contractions in the area being treated. Em sculpt is said to enhance muscle mass and tone and build a more sculpted appearance. The involuntary, intense muscle contractions enhance muscle mass and tone and build a more sculpted appearance. In fact, a single Emsculpt session is the same as doing 20,000 crunches!
The treatment takes a total of 45 minutes and is ideal for any body type. I chose to do it on my abdomen, as I feel is an area that could always use some love, specially post-babies. During the treatment,a paddle applicator is placed over the muscle. Energy from the applicator treats underlying muscle tissue causing supramaximal contractions. These contractions range from 0-100 and you can choose at what level you want to be. I naturally, took it to 100 and these muscle contractions are just as powerful and effective as the work I do in my daily workouts.
YAYS
NAYS
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If you want: Seriously rich moisture.
Reach for: Organic Coconut Shea Body Butter
Shea butter is one of nature’s most effective (and most multi-tasking!) hydrators. It’s packed with nourishing antioxidants and phytonutrients including fatty acids, vitamin E and vitamin A. The natural fatty acids form a protective barrier that helps keep essential moisture in, so skin stays plumped-up and supple looking. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it’s safe for sensitive skin types and those with eczema. It’s perfect on extra dry areas like knees and elbows, and you can even dab a little on dry lips. One more thing we love… the delicious coconut scent is like a beach escape in a jar!
If you want: Hydration + toning benefits
Reach for: Lift & Tone Cream
This all-star blend of aloe vera, shea butter, sweet almond oil and jojoba oil delivers lightweight yet ultra-effective hydration…and gives you the perfect amount of glide when using your Body Massage Tool! The 90% natural formula also includes a custom blend of essential oils that provide toning and circulation-boosting benefits: Cypress essential oil helps stimulate circulation, while Rosemary, Sweet Fennel, Juniper and Geranium leave your skin looking supple and energized, with a subtle scent of fresh flowers and herbs. It sinks in beautifully so your skin looks glowy, never greasy.
If you want: Crazy-good glow
Reach for: Body Oil Duo
Natural oils are a must-have when using with your White Jade or Stainless Steel Gua Sha. They give your skin slip (so your tool glides smoothly without tugging or pulling) and leave your face with a gorgeous glow. They’re also ideal when used with your Body Massage Tool, or anywhere you need on-the-spot hydration. Both our Organic Jojoba Oil and Sweet Almond Oil are cold-pressed, so you’re getting the maximum amount of nutrients in every drop. Smooth a few drops on your arms and legs before a night out to give your skin a naturally radiant summer glow!
xo,
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First things first, cellulite is perfectly natural, normal and, guess what, literally 93-98% of us have it. Women are much more susceptible to cellulite, because our bodies naturally store more fat in our hips, thighs and booty, and our skin is thinner, which makes any lumps and bumps more visible.
All that said, most of us who have cellulite would love to get skin looking smoother, especially during the summer months. We have an easy 3-step plan for a summer of smoother skin… but what we love most is that this routine supports your overall health and wellness, too.
Step 1: Dry Brushing
Boosting circulation and exfoliating dull, dead skin are two ways to help reduce the look of cellulite… and dry brushing is an easy self-care ritual does both at once! When you dry brush, you’re increasing blood circulation, which has the effect of temporarily plumping up skin’s surface and making cellulite less noticeable.
Dry brushing also helps gently exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth skin’s surface and reveal fresher, glowier skin underneath. As always, start on completely dry skin (before a bath or shower) and move your Body Brush in gentle strokes in the direction of your heart. 3-5 minutes is all it takes!
Step 2: Lymphatic Drainage Massage
As you probably know, I’m a huge believer in the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage. The Body Tool was the first product I launched and it’s part of my self-care ritual every. single. day. Using this tool has transformed the look of my cellulite (yep, I have it too!), even throughout both my pregnancies.
There are a few reasons this practice is so beneficial. It supports your body’s natural detox flow, moves along stagnant fluid, and reduces the appearance of swelling and water retention. It also stimulates circulation and helps reduce the amount of fluid that presses up against our connective tissue, which can help minimize that dimpled, orange-peel look.
Here's the key…to see results, your body massage ritual needs to be a regular part of your self-care routine. Real talk: every once in a while won’t cut it, but with a daily ritual, you’ll see improvements.
Step 3: Mindful Movement and Clean Eating
You can “spot treat” cellulite, but regular cardiovascular and strength training help support your muscles and improve skin’s elasticity, reducing the look of lumps and bumps. In the summer, I love going for long outdoor power walks, but always wearing my Wide Brim Visor to protect my skin from the sun.
When it comes to diet, when we say “clean eating,” we’re not talking about losing weight. Plenty of thin people have cellulite! The key here is to focus on the quality of the food you eat. Eating a mostly plant-based diet reduces inflammation, and staying hydrated by drinking water and eating foods with a high water content (think celery, cucumbers, lemons, and watermelons) helps keep your connective tissue smooth and strong.
happy summer, fam!Mother’s Day is coming up and I wanted to celebrate my beautiful mother… and also share her favorite self-care rituals with my de la heart fam! I’m forever grateful to my mom for teaching me to take time to care for myself, and I’ve learned so much from her. Since she turned 50, she’s made sure to prioritize pro-aging self-care rituals, which help reduce inflammation and support her body’s natural healing mechanisms. Here’s her routine using The Detox Kit:
Boost circulation with Dry Brushing
Dry brushing with The Body Brush is an easy way to kickstart circulation and get stagnant lymph fluid moving, while also gently exfoliating skin. Exfoliating dead skin cells becomes especially important as we age, since our natural skin renewal process slows down, leaving you with a layer dull buildup. Removing that layer of buildup makes it easier for your body to eliminate toxins, and (bonus!) it also gives skin a fresh, glowing appearance.
Dry brushing is actually more gentle than grainy scrubs, so it’s a safe choice even if you have sensitive skin. My mom does her drying brushing ritual in the morning, then moves on to the next part of her ritual with The Body Massage Tool.
Support your immune system with Body Massage
Not only does body massage boost your energy and help you de-stress (something ever mom and caregiver needs!), it also supports your immune system. Practicing self-massage using lymphatic drainage principles helps transport lymph fluid to your lymph nodes, where it’s detoxed and filtered before it’s put back into circulation. Think of your lymphatic system as your body’s natural filtration system.
Keeping your immune systems as strong as possible is key, especially if you’re someone like my mom who travels frequently. She does her body massage ritual using The Body Tool, after applying a Body Oil or our Lift & Tone Cream. She starts off by “waking up” the lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and behind the elbows and knees. All you have to do is move the tool gently over these areas, about 5-10 strokes, then you can move on and use longer strokes with slightly more pressure to get lymph fluid moving in your arms, legs and core area. The whole ritual can be done in 5 minutes. My mom has been practicing it for as long as I can remember and she’s even more dedicated to it now… and the results are paying off with health and glow!
]]>We’re wrapping up our Self-Care At Every Age series with a topic I get a lot of questions about… how to look and feel more energized. As a working mom, there are definitely times when I struggle with keeping my energy levels up, and sometimes it shows on my skin. We’ve all woken up with dark circles and skin that just looks blah, haven’t we? Fortunately, there are easy strategies that can help. Make them into habits and watch your glow get better every day!
The secret to energized skin at every age:
Cooling and soothing with Gua Sha
One reason we tend to look more tired with age is that our skin thins over the years, due to a normal slow-down in collagen production. Unfortunately, this can make dark circles and dullness look more pronounced. And of course, factors like lack of sleep and stress can steal your glow. But there are ways to help counteract these effects naturally. The most obvious one is to prioritize sleep. And in case you didn’t realize, when you go to bed matters. Hitting the sack before midnight helps optimize your body’s natural circadian rhythm and gives your body the tools it needs to repair itself on a cellular level—that includes your skin.
After you wake up, start your day with a glass (or two!) of room temperature water. This helps to flush out toxins and boost circulation, giving you a feeling of increased energy. I like to keep a bottle and beautiful glass right on my nightstand, so I don’t even have to think twice, I can just drink up. Next, do your facial dry brushing ritual, which kickstarts skin-cell renewal, removes dull dead skin and gives your face a natural glow (read more on part 1 of our series here!).
Next, it’s time to grab your Stainless Steel Gua Sha. Stainless steel is naturally cooling, but you can also store it in the fridge for even more soothing and de-puffing benefits. Stainless steel is ideal if you’re just starting your Gua Sha ritual or if you travel frequently. It’s naturally antibacterial, and you won’t have to worry about the tool cracking if you happen to drop it (also a benefit if you have little ones who like to play with mom’s beauty products!).
Start by applying either our Organic Jojoba Oil or Sweet Almond Oil. This gives your skin “slip” and allows your tool to glide effortlessly. Move the tool in gentle upward motions to get stagnant fluid moving. The circulation boost will also give your face a healthy-looking glow. On your under eye area, use extra light pressure. Also, make sure to move your Gua Sha tool all the way from your nose to your ear. This helps decongest and ease sinus pressure, which depuffs your eyes and gives you more energized, wide-awake look. You can do this routine every day, or anytime you need an instant energy boost.
xo, Gigi
]]>We’re back with the second part of our Self-Care At Every Age series, and today we’re tackling a subject everyone wants to know more about: how to get your skin looking more lifted. But before we start, I wanted to share a few thoughts about the de la heart approach to aging… and that approach is 100% pro-aging. Anti-aging? That’s not our thing! If you know me, you know I’m all about celebrating women at every stage of life. When I look at the older women in my life, from my family to my beautiful neighbor in Miami who is 102, I’m literally in awe. They say that growing older is a privilege, and that may be a cliché, but it’s true!
And of course, everyone can age the way they see fit. Maybe you’re into “tweakments” like Botox or filler, maybe you’re all-natural, maybe you’re somewhere in the middle. It’s all good, the key is to do what feels right for you and to incorporate self-care rituals that help you make that mind-body connection.
The secret to lifted skin at every age:
Boosting circulation with Gua Sha
Just in case you’re not familiar with Gua Sha, it’s an honored part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), in which a practitioner uses a Gua Sha tool to “scrape” areas of your body, in order to boost circulation, reduce inflammation, move along stagnant energy and promote healing. The same principles apply to facial Gua Sha, but the “scrapes” or strokes are much more gentle, so we don’t damage the delicate skin on the face.
One of the amazing things about Gua Sha is its ability to boost circulation and give your face a more sculpted and uplifted look. The reason is that when you gently massage your face with a Gua Sha tool like our White Jade Gua Sha, you’re helping any stagnant fluid to get moving. This minimizes the appearance of puffiness, so your facial contours look more defined. Know how your face tends to look a bit puffy the morning after a salty meal or a few glasses of wine? Doing your Gua Sha ritual can help you get your cheekbones back and give your face an instant lift!
Gua Sha can also help promote your body’s natural collagen production, which is especially beneficial as we get older. Collagen is a protein that makes up your skin’s “scaffolding” and it’s what gives your skin healthy-looking firmness, elasticity and bounce. Collagen production naturally slows down with age, but stimulating blood flow and oxygen to the skin through Gua Sha can help promote production of this essential protein.
Before you begin your Gua Sha ritual, always prep by applying a hydrating oil like our Organic Jojoba Oil or Sweet Almond Oil. This will allow your tool to glide effortlessly along your skin. Use the smooth edges of our White Jade Gua Sha to glide the tool over your face, working in gentle upward motions to get your circulation going. The White Jade Gua Sha also has an edge with teeth (like a comb), which provides extra friction that brings blood to skin’s surface. You can use this edge on any area where lines and wrinkles are a concern (like tech neck or brow furrows), but make sure to the tool gently over the area. When it comes to pressure, less is more!
xo, Gigi
]]>At de la heart, we don’t believe beauty has an age limit. Need proof? Look no further than my beautiful mother—that’s her above! We do believe in self-care at every stage of life. My mother taught me from the time I was a young girl that it’s essential to care for your body, mind and soul. In that spirit, I wanted to kick off our Self-Care At Every Age series. We’re starting with a topic that pretty much everyone is obsessed with, and that’s healthy and glowing skin. Let’s glow, fam!
The secret to glowing skin at every age:
Kick-start your skin’s exfoliation process
Our skin cells shed naturally, but as we age, the process slows down. The numbers are actually fascinating! When you’re a baby, your skin renews itself every 14 days. When you’re a teenager it takes about 28 days for skin cells to shed, and adults’ skin can take up to 42 days. But when you reach age 50 and up, your skin’s renewal process can take as long as 84 days.
So, it’s clear that helping your skin renewal process along is key… but you need to do it carefully. Why? In addition to not renewing as quickly, mature skin tends to be thinner and more fragile, due to the natural loss of collagen and elastin. Harsh and aggressive acid exfoliators can actually damage your skin barrier and make things worse, not better.
A gentle, effective and time-honored way to kick-start your skin’s natural cycle of renewal is dry brushing. Known as Garshana, which translates to “friction”, dry brushing is an Ayurvedic practice that encourages lymphatic drainage, stimulates your body’s natural detox flow, and gently exfoliates skin’s surface to reveal fresh radiant skin underneath. Many people already practice dry brushing on their body, but don’t realize how beneficial it is for you face. The key is to choose the right brush!
Dry brushes for your body, like our Body Brush, have stiffer bristles to accommodate the skin on your body. But our Facial Dry Brush has softer, ultra-flexible bristles that we created especially for the more delicate skin on your face. Starting your facial dry brushing ritual couldn’t be easier.
First, skin needs to be completely clean and dry. My mom and I both like to do our facial dry brushing ritual in the morning, before the rest of our skincare routine, because it has the added benefit of getting your lymph fluid moving and helping to reduce puffiness. Just move your brush in soft upward motions over your face, starting in the center. It only takes a few minutes to do you whole face! The gentle friction helps to slough off dead skin cells and also gets your circulation going, so skin looks more radiant. Make it a habit to dry brush your face daily and you’ll notice that your skin will starts to look healthier and more even.
Bonus: your skincare products sink in better, too!
xo, Gigi
]]>Morpheus 8 is a type of fractional radiofrequency treatment, which means that it treats only a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving the surrounding skin untouched. This allows for a quicker recovery time compared to other types of radiofrequency treatments. Think small facelift with no downtime. It can also be used on various areas of the face and body, including the forehead, cheeks, jawline, and neck, as well as areas with stretch marks or scars. And a few of my friends have recommended it to help tighten that extra skin leftover from pregnancy. So I decided to give it try on my face & belly area. Here’s what I learned:
Is it painful? The level of discomfort can vary depending on the individual’s pain threshold, and coming from someone who gave birth twice with no meds—it doesn't hurt as much as people say it does!
Can we do anything about the pain? Yes, the treatment is tolerable if the area is numbed, numbing can be done topically with a cream or injected. I chose topically. Pain, heat, and discomfort subside shortly after the treatment is completed and @skinlocal they support you post-treatment using an exosome complex to promote rapid healing and is effective in cooling skin post-treatment.
Is there really no downtime? Well, immediately after the treatment you’re very red and a bit swollen. This all subsided within 24 hours, for me. However, I had tiny purple marks on my stomach for almost 3 weeks post-treatment.
Is there any post-treatment care? Yes!
How long does it take to see results? The results of Morpheus8 can vary depending on individual factors such as the severity of the skin condition being treated, the age of the patient, and the number of treatments received. Generally, most patients see some improvement in their skin within a few days to a week after the treatment. I noticed tighter skin at about 4 weeks post-treatment. However, it can take longer for the full results to become visible as the skin continues to heal and regenerate collagen. @skinlocal suggests to do 3 sessions every 6-8 weeks for optimal results.
Will you do it again? I definitely will in neck and face, but not in my belly.
How much? $$$With love,
Summer is coming and we can’t wait to soak up the sun, fun and amazing energy that this season brings. But this isn’t your typical “beach body” article! At de la heart we’re all about self-love and self-care, and we can’t stress enough that every body is a beach body. These tips from our very own beauty boss, Gigi Vogel, will boost your glow, your energy and—most of all—your confidence. You’ve heard of the summer of love? Well consider this the summer of body love!
Say good-bye to winter flakes
Feeling good in your skin starts with treating it kindly—that means nothing that strips away skin’s natural moisture or irritates with harsh chemicals. When it comes to exfoliation, dry brushing is the way to go. It’s gentle, ideal for all skin types, and safe if you’re pregnant or nursing. Plus, it’s so easy to do. Just grab your Body Brush and move it over dry skin in gentle circular motions, working toward your heart. The friction it creates will slough away dull, dead skin and reveal glowing skin underneath. You can do the same ritual to exfoliate your face, but make sure to use a brush like our Facial Dry Brush—recommended by the beauty pros at Harper’s Bazaar—which has even softer bristles specifically for use on more delicate facial skin.
Detox & de-stress
No self-care session is complete without a lymphatic drainage massage using our signature Body Massage Tool, a must-have of celebs including Dua Lipa and Melissa Wood-Tepperberg. Inspired by the ancestral wellness tradition of Colombian maderoterapia (wood therapy), this tool lets you perform a daily detox ritual quickly and easily. Moving the tool over your body supports lymphatic flow, relieves tension and helps to reduce the look of fluid retention. A regular lymphatic drainage massage practice can also help release tension in your fascia (your body’s network of connective tissue), leading to smoother-looking skin. But we want to remind you that we all have cellulite, stretch marks and scars. As women, our bodies do SO much… this ritual is meant to celebrate the beauty and strength of your body!
Stay protected
Summer goes hand-in-hand with longer days and stronger UV rays. Make sure to apply your favorite SPF to your face and body every day—click here for some of Gigi’s picks. If you’re poolside or at the beach, aim to reapply every two hours for maximum protection. And for those times when you don’t have SPF handy (or the sun is intense and you need to double up on protection), reach for our Wide-Brim Visor. This water-resistant visor is a de la heart fan favorite for its ultra-wide 5-inch brim and super comfortable feel. Keep one in your beach bag and one in the car so you’re ready to stay protected all summer long!
Hydrate & glow
When it’s time to shed those winter layers and slip into something that shows a little more skin, nothing boosts your confidence like adding a little glow. For the ultimate glowing + hydrated skin ritual, start by dry brushing as described above, then hop in the shower to rinse away any flakes. When your skin is damp, apply our Organic Coconut Shea Body Butter. This formula is known as “food for your skin” for a reason! It’s packed with nourishing phytonutrients and hydrators… and the coconut scent transports you to beach escape even if you’re still at home. Breathe deeply and let it sink in for a moment, then layer on a Body Oil to seal in hydration and give your skin a luminous glow.
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The first time I tried a professional HydraFacial, I couldn’t believe the results! My skin immediately looked brighter, smoother and more even—and I had that lit-from-within glow we all want. Since then, I’ve been getting HydraFacial treatments with Ruth Bayer at Diane Walder Dermatology every 6 weeks. My skin looks better than it ever has, and I knew I had to share more about this treatment!
Hydrafacial is a non-invasive, medical-grade facial treatment and one of the most powerful treatments I've tried in recent years. It uses a patented device to cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, and infuse the skin with hydrating and nourishing serums. The treatment is designed to improve the overall appearance and health of the skin by addressing various skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, oily skin, enlarged pores, and acne. And more recently, my friends from Skin Local treated me to a much need one.
A Hydrafacial uses a unique Vortex-Fusion technology that combines three steps to deliver the treatment:
All in all, this treatment is incredibly quick, painless and efficient—and it has literally zero downtime. It typically takes 30-45 minutes to complete. You can have a HydraFacial done the day before or same day you have an event, and your skin will be glowing.
How much: Between $200-300
Worth the hype: Absolutely!
With love always,
Gigi
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Helps your tool glide smoothly
When your skin has some “slip” your tool will glide along better, maximizing the results of your treatment. Whether you choose a cream or oil is entirely up to you. “When I use The Body Tool, I apply Lift & Tone Cream then layer an oil over it,” says Gigi. “My tool glides perfectly and my skin looks so supple afterwards. When I do Gua Sha, I usually stick to just an oil, usually at the end of my skincare routine.”
Hydrates your skin
The action of moving your tool over your skin boosts circulation and warms up your skin, which helps your skincare products sink in better. Natural hydrators like Shea Butter (in our Lift & Tone Cream) and our Organic Jojoba Oil or Sweet Almond Oil treat your skin to nourishing moisture, plus antioxidants and micronutrients.
Prevents accidental bruising
Some of us tend to bruise easily, especially if you take omega-3 supplements. And—unfair but true!—certain healthy foods like garlic, ginger, ginkgo, green tea, salmon, and turmeric can also make you more prone to bruising. Apply your cream or oil generously so your tool glides along smoothly, and make sure to use light pressure. (And don’t stop eating those healthy foods!)
Protects delicate skin
Certain areas of our skin are thinner and more fragile, such as under the eyes and on the neck. When you’re doing your Gua Sha ritual, make sure to treat these delicate areas extra-gently. Otherwise, you risk stretching skin and damaging its deeper layers. Prep with our jojoba oil and move your tool in gentle, feathery strokes to get all of the benefits (and none of the damage).
Stay in the glide with our hydrating agents.
]]>ANCESTRAL HEALING
First, a little background. Jojoba oil is sourced from the seeds of the jojoba plant, a perennial shrub that’s native to desert areas of North and Central America. Centuries ago, Indigenous American people were actually the first to use jojoba seeds to create healing salves, so this traditional oil has a long and time-honored history.
Today, jojoba oil is extracted by cold-pressing, a process that allows the oil to maintain the maximum amount of vitamins, minerals and micronutrients—and it has a lot! Jojoba oil is naturally rich in vitamin E, vitamin B, copper and zinc. This means it’s not only incredibly moisturizing, it also helps to soothe inflammation, boost elasticity and help strengthen skin’s barrier.
SIMILAR TO OUR SKIN’S NATURAL OILJojoba oil is also naturally anti-microbial, and has a longer shelf-life than many other oils, so it’s good pick if you tend to go through your products slowly.
SERIOUSLY MULTI-TASKING
I love how jojoba oil has so many different benefits (and uses!) for your skin, hair and nails. Since it’s packed with high levels of vitamin E and amino acids, it functions as an antioxidant to protect skin against free radical damage and it can help support your body’s natural collagen production. Hello, bouncier and more supple skin! It also helps to promote a healthy skin barrier by creating a protective “seal” that prevents moisture loss. What’s more, it can reduce signs of inflammation like redness and flaking.
I use our Jojoba Oil in so many ways. As I mentioned, I always apply it to my body before doing my lymphatic drainage massage ritual and to my face before I do a gua sha session. I love using it on extra-dry areas like knees and elbows, and it’s great to rub on your cuticles to add hydration and natural shine to your nails. You can also add a few drops to your moisturizer, or layer it over your moisturizer to really seal in hydration. It’s also amazing for hair. Try applying it to dry ends, or smooth a little all-over to tame frizz.
One more thing to note: when you buy jojoba oil, look for an organic formula that’s pure 100% jojoba oil like ours. Check the label and make sure there aren’t any added fillers or unnecessary ingredients‑—that way you’re getting the maximum benefits from this naturally nourishing oil.
]]>Just like dry brushing your body, dry brushing your face sweeps away dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. This reveals a radiant complexion and (here’s the really great part) allows all of your skincare products to absorb better. Dry brushing also helps support detox flow and boost circulation, giving you a natural glow. You’re also getting the radiance-boosting benefits of exfoliation—including visibly brighter skin and more even skin, plus clearer pores—without the harsh chemicals used in some exfoliating products.
The key is to always start with completely dry skin (right after you wake up is perfect) and use a brush with soft bristles. Our Facial Dry Brush features super-soft, flexible bristles made from cruelty-free goat hair, so it’s ideal for all skin types, including sensitive. And because it’s chemical-free, it’s safe to use while pregnant or nursing. It’s simple to use, just brush your face in an upward direction using soft movements (4-5 stroke per area is all you need), then rinse.
Make it a ritual: Keep your Facial Dry Brush on your bathroom counter and before you start, take a moment to take a few deep breaths and start the day with gratitude.
3. PREP YOUR SKIN
All of your skincare serums and moisturizers will absorb better when they’re applied to slightly damp (not bone dry) skin. The best way to rehydrate skin after dry brushing is to use a mist with hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. Our Vibrant Rose Water Mist with organic Bulgarian rose extract instantly refreshes and adds light moisture. Plus, the naturally soothing properties of rose extract can help reduce the look of redness or irritation, as well as control excess oil production.
And of course, rose has amazing aromatherapy benefits as well. As everyone knows, breathing in the scent of fresh rose has an instantly calming and uplifting effect. But did you know rose can help boost your memory and learning skills too? Studies show when students took a vocabulary test with rose incense sticks on their desk, their success increased by 30%. We’ll take it!
Make it a ritual: Keep a mist in your bag so you can refresh, rehydrate, and boost your mood and memory throughout the day.
1. Inner Peace and Tranquillity
2. Self Love
In addition to self-love, white jade may help improve your relationships. Its peaceful energy can soothe anger or jealousy, while helping you to be compassionate towards others. Whether you want to build stronger friendships, rekindle the spark in a romantic relationship or become closer to your family, white jade can help.
3. Good Luck
Note: Keep in mind that these physical healing properties have not be scientifically studied or proven. Any health claims have not been evaluated by the FDA, so don’t use white jade to diagnose, cure, or prevent a disease.
More Benefits of White Jade:
The four healing properties above are the most commonly associated with white jade, but there are other potential benefits of this gemstone. Some examples include:
• Calming. White jade's calming properties can reduce the impact of unwanted or negative emotions.
How To Use White Jade
There’s no right or wrong way to use white jade. You can use your intuition to guide how you approach crystal healing, depending on what you are trying to achieve. For example, if you struggle to stay calm and focused during the day, then carrying a white jade thumb stone in your pocket could be an effective option. You may also want to consider wearing white jade jewellery to keep the stone’s calming energy nearby.
If you want to improve self-acceptance and self-love, then I recommend wearing a white jade pendant. This ensures the crystal is always close to your Heart Chakra where it can have maximum impact. For meditation, I like to place a white jade crystal on a wooden surfacenear where I’m sitting. You can also enhance the effect by creating a crystal grid around you while meditating, which helps focus and amplify the stone’s healing properties.
You can also use a white jade Gua Sha stone to promote healthy, glowing skin. Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese medical practice that’s thought to improve skin clarity and health. Using a tool made from white jade is an easy way to incorporate the healing benefits of this stone into your skincare ritual.
There are so many ways to use this healing stone tobring clarity, peace, and focus to your daily life. Add it to your self-care practice and experience the benefits for yourself.
Mary Ancillette is a spiritual teacher, therapist and writer from the UK who founded angelgrotto.com, an amazing resource for learning about crystal healing. She has a passion for helping people improve their health and well-being. She is the contributing author of this article.
]]>Give Gratitude
Before you begin your ritual, breathe in and feel gratitude for this healing, centuries-old practice and those who created it. It’s a small step and it only takes a moment, but it will help center your mind before you get started.
Prep with Jojoba Oil
Lightweight Jojoba Oil is actually the closet to our skin’s natural sebum. It hydrates without clogging pores and provides the perfect amount of slip for your Gua Sha tool.
Try Stainless Steel if You’re a Beginner
Make Sure to Use Both Hands
Wake Up Your Lymphatic System Before You Start
Hold Your Tool Correctly
Work Your Nose
Go Light Under Your Eyes
Use the White Jade “Comb” Edge to Help Smooth Skin
Treat Your Gua Sha Ritual Like Your Workout
If you love these tips, head on over to Instagram and watch the Live (of course we recorded it!) for more details, demos and all things Gua Sha!
]]>The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in your immunity so improving activation of your lymphatic system in the face, neck and chest can help you relive sinus pressure, cold-like symptoms and other illnesses. When our lymph nodes get congested (specifically those in face and neck) the lymph can’t drain properly, causing a host of issues like clogged pores, acne, puffiness, dehydrated skin, and fine lines. Lymphatic drainage can address all of those things, and pretty much any skin type can benefit from it. Use short, gentle strokes following along with the lymphatic vessels to stimulate detox and boost skin glow.
While facial dry brushing can be done daily, I choose to do it 2-3x a week to not strip my skin from its natural oils. Always start on clean, dry skin, and avoid any sensitive areas or broken, open skin.
Our facial dry brush is made with natural, super-soft, flexible bristles to support the light brushing of your skin. Pressure should be light and gentle, and if your skin appears red or irritated you must discontinue its use and talk to your dermatologist.
How long? This ritual is short and highly effective. I suggest anywhere from 2-5min.
Start by stimulating the lymph nodes around your clavicle or collarbone and the back of the ears. This can be done with your hands or with your dry brush. I like to use my dry brush by doing 5-10 small circles in each area.
From there, you want to clear the lymph vessels that run down the neck, starting from the back of the ear down towards the collarbone. Working your way downwards and 3-5x in the area.
Do 5-10 small circles in the area right below your ears, thinking of working the fluid downwards.
Then start moving up to the face by working underneath the jaw and then back down to the neck, creating a #7. Guide the fluid with your dry brush towards the bottom of the ear (3-5x there) and from there bring some of that back down the neck again.
Think about drawing a line down the middle of the face, and everything working out towards its own ear.
From the chin, across the jaw towards the ear.
From top of the lip across the cheek towards the ear.
Below the eye area and towards the ear to release sinus pressure.
Then out to the side towards the ear from the forehead area (3-5x).
After you’ve worked everything out towards the ear, you’re going to go back and try to guide all that fluid back down the neck towards the collarbone.
Make sure you do both sides, preferably in the morning, and before applying any serums or oils.
Always shower or wash your face after you’re done to get rid of any extra dead skin cells that the brushing may have helped exfoliate from your skin.
Ready, set, GLOW!
***While these statements are supported by my research and personal experiences, they have not been verified by the FDA or a medical professional. These statements are not intended to cure or treat any ailments or diseases. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any at-home regimen to ensure these techniques are right for you.
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Morning Gua Sha Glow-Up
• Use the long edge to glide from the bridge of your nose to the top of our forehead, at your hairline.
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Hi Beauties! Here is my morning skincare routine. I’m currently breastfeeding and 3 months postpartum, so everything I’m using right now is free of retinols, salicylic acids, hydroquinone, aluminum, and benzoyl peroxide. Which means I’m not treating my melasma or any breakouts really. This skincare routine is about maintenance, healthy aging, and hydration. I also like to keep it simple and not use a million products, this helps me recognize which ones actually work and are making a difference.
Please keep in mind that I’m a practitioner and not a professional, I’m just sharing what works for me and the products I love. Always check with your dermatologist or esthetician before trying anything new and feel free to shop any of the products below. These are either created by me or purchased, nothing here is sponsored.
xx, Gigi
First things first, Cleanse.
I love this cleanser because it doesn't strip my skin from its natural oils. I used to suffer from acne, and a big cause for my acne was the dryness from double cleansing and using really strong cleansing agents. This one is glycolic acid based which makes it effective, yet super gentle.
Gentle Green Tea Cleanser by Riverchase Skin Solutions
Next up, Vitamin C serum.
This powerful serum protects my skin from environmental factors & brightens my complexion. It's a great way to keep my melasma under control while minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Skinceutical C E Ferulic Serum
Hydration, Holy Grail.
I was influenced by social media to buy this and to my surprise it's become one of my favorite hydrating agents for the winter months.
The Rich Cream by Augustinus Bader
Double hydration, double the glow.
This oil nourishes the skin and relives any irritation. Carrot seed oil is a natural brightener that's rich in antioxidants known for its ability to rejuvenate. I like to layer over my moisturizer for an extra glow.
Naturopathica Carrot Seed
Smooth, brighten and sculpt.
No botox, no problem! Daily Gua Sha facial has helped me keep my skin firm and wrinkle free throughout both of my pregnancies and postpartum.
Delaheart White Jade Gua Sha
Tech neck, be gone!
The anti-inflammatory properties of Jojoba Oil nourish, soothe, and protect your skin. Jojoba oil is a humectant ingredient, which means that it works to attract water to the top layer of the skin. I love using it for my neck, one of my driest areas.
Delaheart Organic Jojoba Oil
Microcurrent facial toning.
Tighter and firmer skin with fewer wrinkles at the convenience of my very own beauty counter. Sign me up!
Nuface Trinity
Layer, layer, layer.
They work to retain moisture in the skin, which leads to hydrated and plump skin and a more youthful appearance.
Dr. Barbara Strum Hyaluronic Serum & Dr. Barbara Sturm Brightening Serum
The most important.
I do not leave my bathroom without sunscreen, particularly living in Miami where we receive sun 24/7. The real anti-aging tool.
Alastin Skincare Hydratint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Last but not least, plump!
This guy moisturizes, plumps, and softens your lips. Combine this one with their Lip Sleeping Mask and your lips will thank you forever.
Lineage Lip Glowy Balm
This brightening mask restores balance and revitalizes the skin, creating the perfect beautifying ritual. Rose water delivers complex nutrients and hydrating properties to refine texture and radiance. The bioactive compounds in coconut oil leave your skin feeling calm, making this mask ideal for sensitivities while the pearl powder transforms your complexion to have an everlasting glow.
Benefits of pearl powder:
Directions
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The Face Roller, known for its Chinese history, has been long adored by facialists and skincare professionals for its natural cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. The Jade and Rose Quartz gemstones, praised for their healing and restorative energies, offer a gentle yet effective massage that yields significant benefits.
When used regularly, I recommend daily use 1-2 times per day; this at-home massage treatment supports the softening of fine lines, improved circulation, drainage of fluid and puffiness, renewed elasticity, and an overall glowing complexion. Incorporate your roller treatment into your morning routine when you wake up for a fresh and invigorating facial massage and a quick depuffing treatment. A great tip is to use the roller in conjunction with a sheet mask at night to assist in the absorption of serums and moisturizers. You can even keep your roller in the fridge for a more intense cooling effect, which I love during these hot summer months. Whether at-home or on the go, face rollers are perfect for easy and effective facial massage keeping your self-care rituals consistent.
How to use it:
1. Hold the roller by its handle and apply light pressure to the face.
2. Glide the roller in upward motions starting at the jawline and lower part of your cheeks and work your way up, following the natural shape of your beautiful face.
3. Finish by rolling up around your under eyes towards your hairline.
4. Repeat these motions for a minimum of 3-5 minutes.
5. Clean the roller after each use with a mild soap and warm water or damp cloth to prevent any bacteria build-up.
Gua Sha, While sometimes compared to face rollers, the ancient Chinese Gua Sha treatment is a very different but powerful facial massage for at-home use as well. This technique involves pulling an ergonomically designed and positively charged gemstone, Jade, Rose Quartz, or Bian Stone along the face with a deeper pressure than you would use with a face roller. Gua Sha provides fascial release massage to stimulate the skin's layers and help reduce puffiness, flush out excess fluid, relieve muscle tension, and bring fresh blood flow to the skin's surface, which can assist in cell turnover and promote anti-aging. With daily use, morning or night, regular Gua Sha massage reinforces the face's natural contours and shape, preserving a youthful look.
How to use it:
1. Hold the stone and begin to glide firm but comfortable strokes up your face starting with your jawline.
2. Work your way up to your cheekbones and under your eyes, pulling the strokes back towards your hairline. As if you were suggesting a lifting motion.
3. Finish with upward strokes from the top of your brow to your hairline. Repeat these strokes on each side of your face for a minimum of 5-7 minutes to achieve the sculpting benefits. Slight redness may occur but should resolve within a few minutes.
4. Follow this treatment with your favorite serum and moisturizer, and let nature do the rest.
5. Clean after each use with a mild soap and warm water or damp cloth to prevent any bacteria build-up.
You can use these facial tools interchangeably depending on your needs and preferences. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any at-home massage or skincare regimen to ensure these techniques are right for you.
]]>I’ve studied with many healers in my life and have learned several different methods for crystal cleansing. My favorite one uses Himalayan salt. Himalayan salt is the most traditional purifying agent. Its natural absorbing properties draw out and release the unwanted and negative energies that have been collected on the gems’ surface.
Let this be a guide to clearing your tools and amplifying your heart's desires.
CLEANING YOUR GUA SHA:
RECHARGING YOUR GUA SHA WITH A MOON BATH:
I like to close the ritual with a simple thank you to Mother Earth for the cleansing of the crystals and the elements that came together to make these healing tools. It seals in their healing vibrations and reminds me to stay focused on what matters most to our hearts.
]]>Melasma is a common condition amongst pregnant women (due to the increase in hormones), but it's not limited to them, as it can affect women at all stages of life. I saw my first sign of melasma when I was 25 as a result of many years of unprotected sun exposure while living in South Florida. I saw it darken during the last trimester of my pregnancy.
While melasma is treatable, at the moment there is no cure. The first step to treating this condition is working with a dermatologist, the second step is protecting your skin from the sun, and last but not least is taking the natural beauty route. I have been experimenting with a couple ingredients from my pantry that have brightening properties, and came up with this amazing recipe that is helping me lighten my darkened sun spots. Try it out!
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
Benefits of Parsley
Benefits of Jojoba Oil
Benefits of Raw Honey
FACE:
Elta MD ( $36 ) - Oil-free, lightweight sunscreen designed for all skin types. Containing vitamin B3, hyaluronic acid and lactic acid which help promote the appearance of healthy-looking skin.
Repechage Mineral Face Shield ( $59 ) - Lightweight cream with a matte-finish formula leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.
Beauty Counter Counter Sun ( $39 ) - Hydrating and water resistant cream that provides protection from UVA, UVB, and HEV blue light rays designed for all skin types.
Naturopathica Daily UV Defense Cream ( $64 ) - A daily moisturizer that doubles as a sunscreen. It's amazing on its own or under makeup for a matte, sleek finish.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen ( $34 ) - Totally invisible, weightless, sunscreen that preps your skin for makeup while providing broad-spectrum protection.
BODY:
Supergoop! Glow Oil ( $38 ) - Lightweight, ultra hydrating body oil that will leave your skin glowing and protected without feeling greasy.
COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen ( $32 ) - A sheer, mineral sunscreen that provides hydrating, chemical- free sun protection for all skin types.
Suntegrity Natural Sunscreen ( $36 ) - Nourishing mineral sunscreen that smooths right into the skin, packed with shea butter and jojoba oil.
BABY:
COOLA Mineral Baby ( $36 ) - A full-spectrum & organic sunscreen that provides full coverage for delicate skin.
Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen ( $17 ) - Light, Mineral sunscreen that goes on sheer while keeping skin hydrated & soft.
]]>So, I did what I do best, I found a natural way to support my hair's regrowth process using 3 of my favorite foods. Most of us know avocados are incredibly healthy for our bodies, but what most people don't know is that avocado can do wonders for your hair.
Avocados are high in vitamins B and E, which work at the cellular level to protect and strengthen hair. Vitamin E helps repair damage on the scalp, which may slow or prevent hair growing. Vitamin B is essential for hair growth. Avocado locks moisture into hair cells, nourishes hair cells, and strengthens hair roots, shaft and strands. This hair mask has been incredibly soothing and hydrating to my hair. Easy, simple, and effective. Whether you're experiencing hair loss or not, this mask will instantly revitalize your hair. Try it out!
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
Benefits of apple cider vinegar in hair
Benefits of coconut oil in hair
DIRECTIONS
BENEFITS
Pair it with your rose quartz Gua Sha or face roller to maximize the results.