As a child, the refrain of “finish all your vegetables” probably haunted most of your mealtimes. However, as an adult, you’ve most likely found that veggies have infiltrated your overpriced green juices, NutriBullet smoothies, homemade meals, and, unknowingly, your skin care. 

Before you let out an audible gasp, let us provide some historical context. Apart from their many internal health benefits via consumption, vegetables, herbs, and roots, like wild yam root, have been utilized for centuries in Eastern Asian holistic health practices for their benefits, so their current incorporation into skin care isn’t surprising, especially during a rise in natural and hanbang ingredients.

Although wild yam root extract (dioscorea villosa) sounds like it should be on your dinner plate, the beneficial root is currently finding itself on faces across South Korea due to its likeness to K-Beauty staple snail mucin. We’re currently in love with this trending ingredient and want to let you in on all of its plant-based hydrating goodness. 

Ready to explore wild yam root extract AKA phyto mucin? 

Wild Yam Extract (Phyto Mucin) in Skin Care

Wild yam root isn’t actually all that new to skin care! For years, skin care professionals, cosmetic chemists, and dermatologists have incorporated the plant-based phyto mucin into anti-aging skin care because the extract contains a unique compound called diosgenin.

According to Hindawi, a scientific journal, diosgenin helps delay the skin from chronological aging and contributes to reverse photoaging skin damage. Some studies have also shown that the diosgenin content from wild yam extract can also act as an effective inhibitor of hyperpigmentation, making it a suitable ingredient for folks trying to fade acne scars or skin discoloration. 

Wild Yam Extract (Phyto Mucin) As A Plant Based Alternative to Snail Mucin

Unless you’ve been MIA from the skin care side of social media or the internet, then you probably have seen influencers and netizens sing praises of one peculiar K-Beauty ingredient produced from our friendly gastropods: snail mucin. 

The skin care community loves snail mucin due its truly astonishing multitasking abilities. Snail mucin, AKA snail secretion filtrate, does everything from plump and hydrate to regenerate and battle hyperpigmentation.

In Korea, wild yam extract is being explored as a phyto mucin, or a plant-based alternative to snail mucin due to its similarity in texture and its skin care benefits, including its antibacterial, antioxidant, brightening, and skin healing effects on the skin. 

So, if you’re looking for an alternative to Korean skin care’s favorite ingredient, snail mucin, we recommend finding products that contain a high-level concentration of wild yam extract, a phyto mucin, which delivers similar results. 

Wild Yam Extract Recommendation: So, are you ready for our product recommendations? 

If you’re looking for a product that combines both of our favorite mucins, snail mucin and wild yam extract (phyto mucin), we highly recommend adding the newly launched Klog Snail Mucin Energy Essence into your skin regimen. This fast-absorbing gel-to-liquid essence is formulated with 90% snail mucin and wild yam extract (phyto mucin) to deeply hydrate all skin types while improving skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. 

If you’re looking for a solely vegan solution to irritated skin that incorporates wild yam extract, we recommend the Leaders All Filter Mask Zone Mist. Due to the new normalities created by the most recent pandemic, wearing a face mask has become a daily ritual that we have all inherited. However, due to the hot, moist environment created by wearing a face mask, our skin can become easily irritable, eventually leading to breakouts making us dread wearing a face mask. But with Leaders latest skin care innovation, the All Filter Mask Zone Mist calms irritated skin, using cica and phyto mucin to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier while fighting external aggressors. 

Final Thoughts: 

Not only is wild yam extract great for your health, but studies and scientific research has also shown it to be a game-changing skin care ingredient that you’ll probably want to incorporate into your 2022 skin care regimen. Watch as phyto mucin quickly becomes your new strengthening, hydrating, and regenerating BFF.

+Have you tried wild yam root extract? Let us know if you like it below!

The post Ingredient Spotlight: Is Wild Yam Root Extract (Phyto Mucin) The Newest Alternative to Snail Mucin? appeared first on The Klog.

Many of us believe that seasonal skin dehydration and dryness are the two worst skin concerns that pop up during the winter. 

It’s hard to imagine anything worse than dry, irritated skin and a compromised barrier during biting cold temperatures and dry spells. But, if you’ve ever been skiing, tubing, or even been out for a bit while wintry blustery weather wreaks havoc, you know there’s a winter skin concern worse than dryness: windburn.

Many who hit the slopes will tell you windburn, characterized by redness reminiscent of a sunburn, can be unbearable, leaving the face overly sensitive and tender to the touch. In order for you to fully enjoy your winter activities, we’re breaking down how to identify windburn, what it does to the skin, and, of course, how to treat and prevent windburn itself!

What Is Windburn and How Do You Get It?

It’s not unusual to wonder how your skin can acquire a burn during the colder seasons. The day is a lot shorter, meaning there’s less exposure to harmful UV rays. It’s also great to note you’re covered up in layers and layers of clothing most of the time. So, that leaves the question: how can you still get a burn during biting temperatures?

Well, experts aren’t entirely sure. Windburn’s a bit of a divisive topic for dermatologists and scientists, who are separated into two direct camps. The first, believes windburn is a condition that exists on its own. 

These experts believe that the cold winter winds can act as an exfoliant, sloughing off dead skin cells and stripping your skin of its natural oils, disrupting the skin barrier and causing dryness and sensitivity. Windburned skin is red, often feels burnt, and is incredibly sensitive. Often, it peels and is tender to the touch! 

Other experts argue that windburn is just sunburn and often use the terms interchangeably. The combination of underapplying SPF during the winter months and the way snow and ice reflect UV rays make the perfect sunburn storm, resulting in red, damaged skin.

The Skin Cancer Foundation combines the two above theories, believing it’s a bit of both. They think the cold, bitter wind sloughs off the top layer of skin, exposing new, tender skin to UV rays, resulting in damaged, burnt skin. Ouch!

How to Treat and Combat Windburn

Combating and preventing windburn requires a similar approach to the one many of us take towards sunburn.

Building up the skin barrier with a heavier, hydrating moisturizer and preventing any possible free radical damage to the skin with a sunscreen is your best bet to combat and treat windburn. 

We recommend finding a moisturizer that contains both soothing and hydrating ingredients that can help calm redness while simultaneously restoring the skin barrier. 

That’s why we recommend I’m From’s Mugwort Cream, which uses mugwort, an adored ingredient in traditional Korean medicine, that calms redness nourished irritated skin. This makes it a great way to fortify the barrier and battle the sensitivity that cold winter winds and strong rays can bring about. 

Mugwort, for so long, has also been a go-to ingredient to treat common skin problems like rosacea, eczema, and even flare-ups from psoriasis. The extract also helps soothe and nourish the skin with antioxidants that fight environmental aggressors while repairing your damaged skin barrier. 

Before slathering your skin in I’m From Mugwort Cream goodness, take a crack at their hydrating and soothing Mugwort Essence.This refreshing formula adheres to and absorbs into the skin to soothe and recharge moisture from within. It also prepares the skin to soak up all of the products that you apply after!

After applying the Mugwort Cream, we recommend following up with a sunscreen with at least SPF 50. Remember, especially if you’re hitting the slopes or outside during a blustery day, that sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours! 

Windburn, whether it be a singular phenomenon, or a combination of wind and sunburn, is a painful concern that results in a compromised barrier. Get ahead of it this winter with a solid soothing moisturizer and sunscreen! 

+Have you had windburn? How did you get it? Let us know below!

The post Our Guide to Recognizing, Preventing, and Treating Windburn, Winter’s Hidden Skin Concern appeared first on The Klog.

Come winter, it’s time to trade in your sleeveless tanks for cozy cable knit sweaters and your poolside lounging for time in front of the fireplace. One thing you should never lay to rest during the chilly months, though, is sunscreen. In fact, every skin care pro will tell you that it’s important to wear your sunscreen rain or shine, indoors or outdoors, summer and winter! 

We argue that one of the best skin care combinations during winter is a luxurious moisturizer and an SPF. Today we’re explaining why and showcasing our current top picks in each category. 

Why You Need a Quality Moisturizer in Winter 

Cold and dry winter air is notoriously brutal on your skin. Add the fact that drying indoor heaters are constantly running and you’ve got a recipe for skin that looks and feels dry, rough, and lackluster. 

Using a high-quality moisturizer will help your skin stay more hydrated, which translates to a glowing, healthy complexion. Here are some additional ways you can tweak your winter skin care regimen:

• Wash your face with a hydrating cleanser.
• Apply a moisturizing toner to damp skin (this helps lock in moisture).
• Layer a moisturizing serum on top and then follow up with that moisturizing cream!
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night and/or use one at your desk.
• Avoid taking really hot showers, which can further dry out your skin. 

The Importance of Wearing Sunscreen All Year Long 

Though we often equate sunscreen with summertime, your skin is susceptible to UV damage throughout the year. In the winter, you should apply an SPF of 30+/PA+++ in the morning to any exposed skin (including your neck, chest, and hands), then re-apply approximately every four hours.  

The sun’s UV rays are no joke and consistent exposure can result in skin cancer and premature signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles, sunspots, and laxity. Protecting yourself is as simple as apply a layer of lightweight sunscreen, so why wouldn’t you want to take this step?

Our Favorite Winter Moisturizer + Sunscreen 

Seeking the perfect winter moisturizer and sunscreen duo? We’re excited to showcase two of Soko Glam’s recent Best of K-Beauty® winners! 

Moisturizer: Rovectin Lotus Water Cream (Best Vegan Beauty)

Your skin will thank you for applying this delightful drink of lotus water! Not only does this award-winning cream deeply hydrate your skin, but it also works overtime to bolster your skin’s barrier. As a result, your skin’s able to lock in moisture more efficiently, and it helps keep damaging toxins and pollutants from wreaking havoc.  

Lotus flower extract is the hero here, which absorbs impurities for a clearer-looking complexion. It’s also formulated with natural flavonoids to prevent signs of aging, as well as Aquaxyl, a patented hydrating ingredient that seriously boosts moisture for a glowing, plump, radiant complexion.

Sunscreen: Neogen Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen (The New Classic)

Sunscreen should be applied to your skin after your moisturizer and before any makeup. This sophisticated formulation from Neogen is so airy and light that you won’t even notice it’s there. 

It also absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave behind that tell-tale white cast, making it a perfect sun protector for all complexions. Your skin will also love that it’s infused with 20 botanical extracts, including soothing aloe vera, hydrating avocado, antioxidant rich acai, and calming hibiscus.

+What shifts do you make to your skin care routine in the winter? Let’s swap tips in the comments below.

The post We’re Letting You In On the Winter Combo Your Skin Needs: Moisturizer + SPF appeared first on The Klog.

So let me give you some context. The Missha First Treatment Essence (the holy grail essence that has crazy rave reviews on Soko Glam) uses 80% fermented yeast product to help skin’s cellular renewal. And if you’ve been wondering how that stuff makes your skin glow, you can thank fermented ingredients!

What is fermentation?

Fermentation is a natural process in which yeast secretes enzymes that are beneficial to the human body. It takes some time, but with a bit of patience the product will naturally form amino acids, vitamins and anti-oxidants thanks to the fermentation process.

Thank god kimchi is a superfood because I even like to put it on my lasagna. 

If the above is making your head spin – just think of kimchi or sauerkraut. These two food products are fermented foods because of the process in which it is preserved. The preserving process actually ups the nutritional value of the food because it secretes new enzymes and acids that are beneficial to your body. It aids your digestive tract by adding “good” bacteria, and even helps flush out toxins. They’re not called “super foods” for nothin’!

Now Korean cosmetic companies are figuring out that they can ferment plants and put them into skincare products to let skin reap similar benefits that your body enjoys.

What can it do for my skin? 

It’s perfect for those that are dry skin types: With loads of fruit and sugar acids, it’s a natural moisturizer for the skin

For those dealing with fine lines: Amino acids, such as glycine revitalizes and firms skin. It is also an antioxidant that can reduce free radicals and protect the skin from UV damage.

Or pigmentation and brown spots: Helps lighten brown spots, and even skin tone.

And aging: Amino acids, such as glycine, encourage the production of collagen and increases cell vitality.
In my opinion, fermentation is Korea’s answer to organic skincare. It’s pretty freakin’ genius. I’ve been wary of organic products in the past, so if it wasn’t for all the awesome results I have (and you have) been seeing I would say it could be hype. But I’m going to put my stamp of approval and say it isn’t hype folks! Fermentation has been practiced by many cultures for thousands of years and although the process is simple, it provides super charged ingredients to help deliver some powerful benefits to your skin.

It’s an understatement to say that I’ve been a bit obsessed with curating fermented skincare products, especially brands that are putting some R&D muscle behind it. Now that I know that this trend is here to stay, I’m pretty excited!

Here are a few of my current favorite fermented skincare products at different price points, and I’ll continue to add my favorite brands here:

SU:M37 – A luxury Korean beauty brand that specializes in naturally fermented skincare. “SU:M” represents the Korean word for respiration and “37” signifies the optimal fermentation temperature. SU:M37 products are also free of fragrances, artificial colors, and synthetic preservatives.

Goodal – A premium Korean beauty brand that specializes in a line of fermented essential oil skincare products.

Missha – The Time Revolution line uses fermented yeast as their superstar ingredient, and I hope they roll out some more lines dedicated to fermented ingredients.

The post Fermented Skincare Is Trending In Korea appeared first on The Klog.

Not long ago, I wrote a story for The Klog about how to transition into your winter skincare regimen. In it, dermatologist Dr. Lamees Hamdan specifically advocated using products rich in algae and marine extracts to keep your skin looking and feeling great during the cold, dry season. I found it an unusual, but wise, recommendation, and decided to explore it further.

Algae as a Skincare Ingredient
Algae isn’t considered a conventional beauty ingredient, but it has been used in skin care for thousands of years. It’s been dubbed a “miracle ingredient” and the “ocean’s most potent secret,” and there are even entire skin care lines and brands dedicated to using algae and other marine extracts (you’ve heard about Phytomer, Algenist, and La Mer, right?).

There are two primary types of algae: macro and micro. Macro is large-scale type that’s visible to the naked eye. It’s the stuff you see floating in the ocean and think of first when someone says the word “algae.” This includes seaweed, kelp, and laminaria (the brownish red seaweed that’s typically found in Japan). Microalgae, as you probably guessed, is super tiny. In fact, it’s a “single cell” algae, and you can’t see it without a microscope. This type is often found in freshwater and marine systems in both water and sediment.

Algae’s Skincare Benefits
Micro and macro algae are both found in skincare and boast numerous benefits. Most notable, perhaps, is its ability to instantly hydrate and condition the skin. Upon using products containing this ingredient, you’ll notice a more supple, moisturized complexion that’s soft to the touch.

Algae is also an antioxidant, meaning it protects your skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. In that sense, it’s an excellent ingredient for those who are worried about aging skin which is, well, most of us! Finally, it is high in essential amino acids, proteins, and a variety of vitamins—including vitamins A, B, C, and E. Talk about a loaded, super ingredient!

Skin types that benefit most from algae-infused products are dry skin, sensitive skin, and those who want to combat and prevent signs of aging.

Algae Product Recommendations
Here’s where we get to the really fun part: Product recs! I’ll start with one of the fishiest, sea-inspired products I’ve ever had the privilege to use: Whamisa’s Organic Sea Kelp Facial Sheet Mask. It smells like it was pulled straight out of the ocean, and looks and feels exactly like kelp. It’s a two-piece sheet mask that’s doused with 100% real sea kelp and bamboo serum.

If the above is a little too much for you, you’ll probably enjoy SkinFood’s Marine Food Mask in Seaweed. This is a hydrogel mask that contains both algae extract and sea water. SkinFood’s Pearl version of the same mask also contains algae extract in addition to pearl extract.

Another algae-infused product is Missha’s Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42, which is one of my favorite BB creams on the market and therefore one of my most frequently recommended. This formulation is thick and creamy to provide complete coverage but doesn’t look heavy on your skin. Instead, skin looks supple, vibrant, and even.

Lastly, I recommend Nature Republic’s Collagen Dream Eye Cream. It is formulated with collagen, as the product name implies, but it’s also high in algae extract and aloe vera extract.

The post The Benefits Algae Bring To Your Skin appeared first on The Klog.

Why would anyone put snail mucin in skincare products in the first place?

Think of it this way: Snails move around by dragging their bodies on the ground. Pretty gnarly, right? Well, in order for them to not get totally torn up by whatever pointy, sharp or abrasive textures are on the ground, they have to heal themselves pretty fast, which is a natural ability found in that telltale snail trail.

K-beauty pioneered the idea of taking that super healing extract from the snail’s natural secretion and implementing it in skincare as a prime skin healer.

What does it do for your skin?

Snail mucin already possesses a bunch of well-known skin care treats like elastin, proteins, copper peptides, hyaluronic and glycolic acid, plus it also has anti-microbial properties to ward off bacteria.

Since snail mucin is still relatively new in the skincare world, there aren’t a lot of clinical studies for academic proof, but you just need to visit any skin care forum online and you’ll see the evangelical praise of how it’s helped people’s skin.

Snail mucin is known for being able to firm and tighten the skin, boost elastin and collagen production, replenish moisture, minimize wrinkles and fine lines, repair skin damage, fight blemishes, and even skin tone.

Where to find it

You’ll find snail mucin in products meant to help with anti-aging efforts, fading acne scars and pigmentation, or to help hydrate. Its natural peptides work to even skin tone and texture, encouraging collagen products to plump your skin up so it appears smoother and more hydrated. And since the whole point of snail mucin is to heal and repair, it does the same thing via cell regeneration for your pigmented or scarred skin cells.

So what’s the best way to get your snail mucin fix?

It depends on your skin type! If you are preparing for a long dry winter, definitely pick it up in moisturizer form. Missha’s Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Cream is a bestseller for a reason. Its gel texture formula is insanely hydrating (layer it on at night to see how it doubles as a sleeping pack). 

If you’re good on hydration for now but could still use a snail fix, an essence or sheet mask is the way to go. Missha also has a sheet mask infused with snail essence, but my personal favorite is the sleeping mask by Missha. It has snail mucin and Centella to even out skin tone. I recommend it for all skin types, especially sensitive and acne-prone skin. 

Snail mucin essences will often have a watery gel texture that you can just pat on after toning and it’ll make your skincare routine feel all the juicier—something you definitely want, trust me.

The post Snail Mucin: The Superhero of Skin Care appeared first on The Klog.

Because of its well-known healing properties, aloe vera has been used to treat skin care concerns ranging from sunburn to dermatitis for decades. 

Although we can all recall at least one time we’ve lathered this cool gel onto some irritated skin, this plant’s benefits don’t stop at soothing and calming. In fact, there are a myriad of ways beyond sun damage that we can use our summer skin care staple.

Since this popular plant contains an array of vitamins, enzymes, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Beth G. Goldstein, MD says “aloe also has the ability to capture ongoing skin damage in the form of antioxidants, and boasts both antibacterial and antiviral properties.” 

When we think of aloe, we don’t necessarily think of a powerful antiviral and antibacterial go-to, but I think it’s time we re-evaluate this beauty cabinet staple. We found four ways aloe can further benefit our skin, hair and nails.

Below, we deep dive into how this super star ingredient can completely change your beauty routine. If you’re in need of some aloe product recommendations, we’re also sharing our five favorite products to stock up on before summer begins. 

Moisturizing and Anti-Aging Benefits

Move over hyaluronic acid, aloe has notable moisturizing and anti-aging effects on the skin!

A 2008 review published in The Indian Journal of Dermatology found that mucopolysaccharides from the plant help bind moisture into the skin. Similarly, the study added that because aloe stimulates fibroblast (which produces collagen and elastin fibers) it makes the skin more elastic and less wrinkled.

Here at the Klog, we’ve tested aloe as a moisturizer and found that the gel smoothed the skin- and gave us quite the glow!

Aloe as an Anti-Inflammatory and Scar Treatment

While aloe often brings sunburn to mind, Dr. Goldstein tells The Klog that this plant can be used for treatment of inflammatory skin conditions and some forms of scarring. 

“Hand dermatitis, seborrhea, and herpes have been shown to be improved with use of aloe vs. other treatments or a placebo,” she explains. In other scientific studies, aloe was shown to help reduce the look of C-section scars! 

Anti-Acne Benefits

Aloe is also a promising acne treatment, says a 2004 study published in the International Journal of Aromatherapy. The study, which tested the effectiveness of an aloe vera gel and Ocimum gratissimum oil preparation, determined that the mixture was able to resolve inflammatory lesions faster than the standard product.

Similarly, a preparation of aloe, propolis, and tea tree oil ingredients was equally effective in reducing acne lesions. A 2018 study published in Clinical Pharmacology: Advances and Applications, for example, found the formulation to be more effective in reducing acne compared to the preparation of synthetic origin such as erythromycin. 

Aloe treats acne similarly to the way it treats our sunburns, helping the pimple heal faster.

Aloe May Benefit Your Hair and Nails 

Because of aloe’s  anti-inflammatory properties, Dr.Goldstein explains that “it [aloe] may be helpful in reducing inflammation due to seborrhea. The moisturizing properties of the plant can also help attract moisture to dry hair follicles.” A healthy application of aloe to the scalp may help calm irritation and reduce dry, flaky patches to reveal a healthy, calm head of hair! 

Aloe can also give brittle nails and cuticles a boost, says Memphis-based dermatologist Dr. Purvisha Patel, MD. “This plant can help with brittle nails and cuticles after trimming to decrease inflammation and encourage growth,” she explains. 

Though, if you aren’t sure how your skin will tolerate this plant, Dr. Patel recommends consulting with your board certified dermatologist to make sure it’ll work for you.

 “It’s better to check and make sure, than to use it and have your skin issue get worse before seeing a doctor,” she advises. We agree! 

Aloe Products to Shop

If you are looking to beef up your medicine cabinet before summer comes knocking, ahead, our are five must-have essentials sure to give your hair and skin a boost. 

1. Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel 

This soothing moisturizer is sure to please, as it’s gel texture and pH-balanced formula absorbs easily into the skin without any hangups. Packed with both aloe and propolis, this gel formulation soothes while also fighting signs of any breakouts.

2. Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Tencel Sheet Mask

Rev up your sheet mask stash with this aloe and ceramide-rich mask, which feels even better on your skin after you chill it in the fridge. It’s particularly great for any skin barriers that are struggling and need a dose of nourishment.

3. La’Dor Tea Tree Scalp Clinic Hair Pack

Because this hair pack is rich in aloe, snail mucin, and tea tree ingredients, there’s no doubt it will work over time to clarify the scalp, and remove buildup and dandruff. 

4. Juice to Cleanse Calming Clean Water

If you are looking to give double-step cleansing a try this summer, trust that this aloe and coconut fruit cleansing water just may be the first-step cleanser you are looking for, as it gently removes dirt and impurities, while keeping the skin full of moisture. 

5. Thank you Farmer Back to Relax Soothing Gel Mask

Let this soothing gel mask come to your aid next time you spend the whole day at the beach, as its aloe, pomegranate, and cica extracts hydrate and repair damage, without leading to irritation. 

The post Yes, Aloe Helps Revive Sun-Damaged Skin. Here Are 4 Other Ways This Plant Can Benefit Your Skin, According To Dermatologists appeared first on The Klog.

I’ll admit it: I’m a reformed chemical exfoliation addict. In my former life, I would experiment with any new acid that claimed to leave me with a glowing, pore-less face. Who wouldn’t, right? That glorious sting upon application was something I looked forward to at the end the day (crazy, I know!). I got so into craving that stinging feeling that I was using AHAs and BHAs on a daily basis, which wasn’t giving my skin a chance to repair itself.

And doing that—my friends—is what damaged my skin’s moisture barrier. It’s also what forced me to give up exfoliating cold turkey for a long month. I was miserable, but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in regards to my skin care routine.

Let me explain what your moisture barrier is, why you need to protect it, and lay down a routine that will get your skin back in tip top shape if you’re an exfoliation addict like me. 

What is the skin’s moisture barrier?

Your skin’s moisture barrier goes by many different names—acid mantle, protective barrier, hydro-lipid film, etcetera. All in all, they refer to same thing: your skin’s protective barrier. It’s the outermost layer of skin (AKA the stratum corneum) that essentially protects it from bad bacteria, environmental pollutants, transepidermal water loss (evaporation of water which leads to dry skin) and any other possible irritants. A healthy barrier is made of a combination of lipids like cholesterol, free fatty acids, and ceramides, which help to maintain the optimal amount of healthy bacterias and flora for your skin to remain balanced and protected.

The barrier is strong enough to protect the skin but can easily be thrown out of balance. This can happen from a multitude of reasons, such as changes in weather conditions (moving from air conditioning to the hot, humid weather outside), to the use of harsh soaps which cleanse the skin but strip it of its natural oils. High foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can also irritate the skin.

But the most common reason your skin’s moisture barrier gets thrown out of whack is over-exfoliation. While exfoliating has many positive effects (like helping to keep the skin super smooth and acne free), it’ll dissolve the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, leaving you prone to bad bacteria and environmental stressors.

How can you tell if it’s been damaged?

At rest, your skin is at a pH of 4.2 to 5.6, which means it’s more on the acidic side. Your skin remains at this pH to defend itself from bad bacteria which thrive in more alkaline conditions (pH of 10.5-11). When exposed to high pH cleansers or other irritants, they throw the mantle out of balance which can lead to damaging effects, like dryness, flaking, itching, tightness, redness and overall sensitivity. This imbalance has also been known to lead to skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and overall inflamed and more acne-prone skin.

In my case, I could tell my barrier was damaged because my skin was experiencing increased sensitivity by turning red at the slightest touch, and all of my products would sting upon application. At first, I thought it might have been a skin care product I was using, but after switching up my routine to old, trusted favorites my skin remained irritated, dry, and itchy.

Nothing I was applying was helping, which is why I took a step back to assess my skin, realize it was damaged, and started to feed it the ingredients it needed to repair itself.

How to repair a damaged moisture barrier:

To repair the damage that the acid mantle has faced, you have to focus on including products that avoid harsh cleansing agents and high foaming ones like sodium lauryl sulfate. Instead, reach for cleansers rich in  lipids, fatty acids and ceramides which help to restore the barrier working to rejuvenate the skin and return it to its natural state.

Most importantly, if you know your skin is compromised, take a step back and avoid all forms of exfoliation. This means no exfoliation. None. Zip. Taking a breather from it will give your skin a chance to recuperate and build back that mantle.

My recommended routine to repair a damaged acid mantle:

Cleanser

First, break down your routine into as few steps as possible to help to avoid any possible irritants. You can start by tossing aside any cleanser with harsh detergents and instead choose gentle, pH balanced ones that will help to keep that acid mantle in check.

A great one to try out is the Acwell pH Balancing Bubble Free Cleansing Gel, which is formulated to have a pH gentle enough for all skin types. This cleanser will rid the skin of any oil, dirt and bacteria without stripping it of its naturals oils and instead leave it balanced and moisturized. This will ensure there will be no “squeaky clean feeling” after using it (a sure sign of barrier damage).

Toner

You’ll want to follow up with a pH balancing toner that packs a punch of hydration, like the Klairs Supple Preparation Toner. This contains a healing blend of hyaluronic acid, aloe, and beta-glucans to soothe and hydrate the skin.

I’m a huge fan of this toner because it helps to deeply nourish while aiding in reducing inflammation and redness—typical signs of barrier damage. Plus, hyaluronic acid helps bind moisture to the skin helping to fight the transepidermal water loss that barrier damage brings about.

Serum

Just because you have to break down your routine doesn’t mean you can’t slip in an anti-aging serum! The Neogen Real Ferment Micro Serum is perfect because it contains fermented ingredients like bifida ferment lysate that delivers hydration and nourishment to the skin barrier! This serum will help to replenish the barrier while also smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles.

Moisturizer

Now for the most important part of your routine: your moisturizer. This step will help to lock in hydration and keep your skin protected while your barrier renews itself.

The Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream would work well because it’s enriched with skin-loving ceramides that help to fortify the skin’s natural barrier while helping to soothe redness and inflammation. 

Bottom line:

Repairing your acid mantle takes hard work and dedication, but once you implement these changes you’ll be well on your way to the healthy, supple skin you’re meant to have.

When it comes to skin care, it’s important to listen to your skin and realize exactly what it needs. If exfoliating the recommended one to two times a week is leaving your skin irritated, then don’t do it. These so called “skin care rules” don’t always apply to everyone. Your skin is unique and you should create a routine that works for you.

+ Have you ever damaged your acid mantle? What did you do to repair it? Let us know in the comments below!

The post How To Repair Your Skin’s Moisture Barrier After Over-Exfoliation appeared first on The Klog.

What are ceramides? This is something you’ve probably asked yourself while looking at a skin care product ingredient list.

Well, ceramides are a true skin care ingredient hero that everyone should get to know. Once you do, it’s hard not to fall in love.

What Are Ceramides?

“Ceramides are ‘skin identical’-like lipids that penetrate the skin quite well and seal in moisture,” says Angela Caglia, a celebrity esthetician who’s been in the skin care business for two decades. “They are excellent for hydration, and you can expect more plump and moisturized skin with use.”

Think of ceramides as the “glue” that bonds skin cells together, kind of like the frosting that keeps a gingerbread house from falling apart, or the mortar that’s used between bricks. When skin cells are glued together via ceramides, it creates a protective, hard-to-penetrate layer that shields the skin from outside damage and helps retain moisture. Here’s the takeaway: Ceramides are the bomb when it comes to improving skin barrier function!

RELATED: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Using Vitamin C For Your Skin

How Do Ceramides Get In Products?

Our skin naturally produces ceramides, but the ceramides you find in products are either synthetic versions or are derived naturally from plants. They are nearly identical to the stuff already found in human skin.

What kind of skin type benefits from ceramides?

Everyone! As we mentioned, your skin naturally produces ceramides, but as you get older, the amount of ceramides in your skin also decreases. This could be a result of your skin becoming damaged or irritated (which happens with sun and wind exposure), drying products, and general aging. Since they are great at building up the skin’s barrier and retaining moisture, ceramides are an amazing ingredient for severely dry skin, those with hyperpigmentation, and people with eczema.

Our Favorite Products With Ceramides

If you’re looking for a solution to restoring moisture to the skin barrier and hydrating the skin, the Plant Base Quesera Ceramide ampoule is a great starting point. Consisting of rice bran oil, niacinamide, and licorice root extract, these ingredients work in tandem with ceramides to deliver a bright, hydrated complexion.

Another one of our favorite hydrators is the Dear, Klairs Fundamental Watery Oil Drop. This water-based serum featuring green tea, ceramide, peptides and ferment extracts locks in all the skin’s moisture while shielding the skin from free radicals. 

We’re also partial to the Then I Met You Calming Tide Gel Cream, a lightweight, ultra-moisturizing cream that’s loaded up with ceramides, hibiscus, madecassoside, and niacinamide. It’s approved for all skin types, but dry and sensitive skin types will especially love it. 

There are ceramides in some makeup products, too! The Nature Republic Super Origin Cushion CC is a cushion foundation that allows you to double-down on your ceramide intake while it helps even out your complexion.

Now you’ll never ask “What are ceramides?” again!

The post Ingredient Spotlight: Ceramides, The Secret To Hydrated, Plump Skin appeared first on The Klog.

Oh, honey. This sweet, gooey skin care ingredient gets a lot of love from the beauty community at large—both natural beauty enthusiasts and science diehards—but just how legit is this golden nectar of the gods? We hit up a dermatologist for the DL on whether honey can truly cure skincare ailments such as dehydration and acne. Turns out, there are a few misconceptions to be aware of, but also some truth to the information that’s already out there.

Using raw honey as a skin care ingredient:

We’ll get straight to the point: honey is the crème de le crème of natural skincare ingredients, and you should integrate it into your skin care regimen like, yesterday.

“Honey is an excellent, natural hydrator for the skin that still allows it to breathe, which is why honey is so good for regeneration and skin healing,” says Elizabeth Tanzi. She’s the founder and director of Capital Laser & Skin Care and the associate clinical professor of the Department of Dermatology at the George Washington University Medical Center. “[Honey] acts as a moisturizer and anti-inflammatory ingredient to soothe the skin, and it also has natural antibiotic properties to reduce bacterial growth,” says Tanzi.

So we know that honey is undeniably good for your skin, but is it actually effective to smear the stuff directly onto your skin? Don’t toss out your moisturizers and acne treatments just yet! The bottom line, according to Tanzi, is that honey is not a solitary cure-all for skin ailments, including acne, and that you’re better off using it in conjunction with other ingredients.

“There are many good, well-tested topical treatments out there. There’s no reason to use honey right from the jar because it hasn’t been tested for effectiveness and safety,” she explains. Regarding acne, she adds, “Treatment for acne usually involves several different types of topical treatments, and sometimes oral, to address all the contributors to acne.”

In short: Yes, it’s good for your skin, but no, it’s not going to solve all your problems. Going jar to face isn’t going to hurt you, but you can make your skin care regimen more efficient by utilizing other ingredients that have been tested and proven effective. 

DIY with honey:

This news may come as a relief, as slathering the sticky stuff straight onto your skin isn’t exactly the most enjoyable experience. Even DIY skincare recipes cut honey with other ingredients that further nourish the skin and make it a bit more manageable!

Speaking of, Tanzi has a great DIY recipe to try:

“Make your own moisturizing mask with two tablespoons whole milk plain yogurt, one tablespoon honey (raw, if possible) and two tablespoons of plain cooked oatmeal,” she says. “Mix it all in a blender until smooth. Apply to your skin and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse.”

Yogurt will reduce fine lines and tighten pores, honey will combat acne and hydrate, and oatmeal will soothe and reduce inflammation. Make sure you’re using the purest honey you can find—ideally straight from the beekeeper—and bonus points if it’s made locally.

Tanzi also offers this pro tip: “If you are going to use honey, mix small amounts with a standard, over-the-counter anti-acne mask to increase hydration of the product.”

Products with honey as a skin care ingredient:

You can get the best of both worlds with professional skin care products that are formulated with honey along with other ingredients.

For example, we’re big fans of the COSRX Propolis Light Cream, a moisturizer that’s loaded with natural propolis, honey and royal jelly extracts. These anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients will work together to heal, nourish and hydrate dull and dehydrated skin. 

Another favorite is the Skinfood Royal Honey Propolis Enrich Essence, a seriously potent product formulated with 50% black bee propolis extract, 20% royal jelly extract, and 10% royal black honey extract. Two or three drops will instantly boost and hydrate tired, dry skin. A similar product, but with a higher concentration of propolis extract, is the Elensilia French Propolis 82% Resistem Ampoule. It is the perfect pick-me-up for dull and irritated skin. Formulated with 82% propolis extract created by our hard-working honey bees, this ampoule protects and repairs while soothing the skin.

Lastly, we want to highlight one of Soko Glam’s top-rated sunscreens that all honey-lovers should have in their purses. The Papa Recipe Honey Moist Sun Essence SPF 50+PA+++ is a lightweight and fast-absorbing sunblock that not only provides broad spectrum protection but also hydrates and nourishes the skin. Plus, this sun essence doesn’t leave a sticky residue or white cast, allowing you to apply and reapply without any hassle.

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