Author: evamariamuur Bronze Member

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Cleansing, Not Scouring – The Importance of Gentle Face Cleansers!

You might think, dear reader, that skin cleansing is rather straightforward. No matter how you do it, or when, or what with, the results are pretty similar, right? No! This common assumption couldn’t be further from the truth, we’re afraid, and it could be causing your skin to needlessly suffer.

But fear not, as help is at hand! We here at LUMI love to steep ourselves in the science of skincare, and have been busy at work combing the latest research into how best to cleanse skin without damaging it or its microbiome in the process.

So, without further ado, let’s explore everything you could want to know about skin cleansing, and find out how you can keep your skin happy and healthy!

Leave the Foam Alone – The Uncomfortable Truth of Synthetic Surfactants

There are a lot of cleansing products on the market today. You need only walk through the cosmetics aisle of your nearest supermarket to find dozens of different cleansers, all with varying ingredients and compositions. 

You might be forgiven for thinking that this means the stuff inside a cleansing product doesn’t really matter too much, and that there are only minor differences between the various options.

This is really not the case in practice, however. It’s important to stress that the type of cleansing product you use on your skin really matters. If you leave this article with only one fact in your mind, let it be that one! 

Cleansing products work by using surfactants (surface active agents). Surfactants are compounds that reduce the surface tension of liquids and help remove unwanted debris from the surface of the skin.

So far so good, but surfactants are not all created equal. Synthetic surfactants, such as those found in the cleansers of most big-name skincare brands, can be harsh on skin, stripping away natural oils on the skin’s surface and damaging the skin’s protective barrier.

And that’s not all. Thanks to their toxicity and slow biodegradability, synthetic surfactants can have a detrimental impact on the environment, as well as the health of your skin. The skin’s microbiome can be severely affected by synthetic surfactants, leading to dysbiosis, a state where our essential microflora are imbalanced or depleted.

Sodium lauryl ether sulfate, also written on labels as sodium laurel sulfate or SLES, is an extremely common synthetic surfactant, found in lots of cleansers, shampoos, and shower gels. It’s lauded for its cheapness to produce, ability to bind to dirt, and for how much foam it produces (which users often falsely equate with effectiveness). 

But there is plenty of evidence to suggest that SLES is bad news for both our skin and the environment. Studies have found that SLES reduces cell viability of skin, commonly causes irritation including redness and itching, and can also be toxic for aquatic life if the compound reaches marine environments before properly degrading.

After all that, it might surprise you to find out that SLES is supposedly an improvement on its parent chemical, sodium lauryl sulfate (SFS), which can still be found in many products today. SFS is notorious for its ability to cause irritation to skin and its toxic effects on aquatic life.

A study found that after using SFS, lower amounts of bacteria associated with skin protection and repair were present on participants’ skin, whilst levels of pathogen-associated bacteria were elevated. 

It’s not just SFS and SLES that cause issues, though. Another common synthetic surfactant that is supposed to be ‘kinder’ than SFS, called sodium lauryl sarcosinate, has been shown to reduce the amount of beneficial microbiota present on skin and reduce the skin’s protective barrier function. 

All in all, we think synthetic surfactants are simply too much trouble, both for humans and the environment. That’s why we’re so keen on natural alternatives! 

LUMI Cleansing Milks – Brilliantly Effective Whilst Gentle on Skin!

Okay, so synthetic surfactants are out. But what can you use in their place? Fortunately, there are plenty of organic alternatives to choose from! 

Natural cleansers can perform the exact same function as synthetic surfactant-based washes, removing dirt, dead skin, and other detritus, whilst being much kinder to your skin and its microbiome in the process. Research shows that products with lots of chemicals and complex compositions are in general no better at cleansing the skin than those with natural, simple compositions.

At LUMI, we place a lot of importance in both cleansing skin and always being gentle enough to leave the skin barrier healthy, happy, and intact. Our team of skincare specialists have developed two brilliant cleansing milks, each designed to fit perfectly into your routine, depending on your individual needs.

Our classic Moisturising Cleansing Milk effectively cleanses the skin’s surface without upsetting the balance of your microbiome or damaging the skin’s protective barrier. And thanks to its 100% organic composition, you can be assured that your cleanser will be just as gentle on the environment as it is on your skin.

The Tundra AHA-BHA Cleansing Milk offers the same thorough-yet-gentle cleansing and fully natural composition, whilst also including AHA-BHA acids that gently exfoliate the skin and prevents clogged pores. This cleansing milk helps keep acne at bay and is perfect for anyone seeking to enrich their skincare routine with those all-important keratolytics! 

Whilst not a cleansing milk, we’d also like to shout out our brilliant Babyface makeup remover. BABYFACE is specially formulated to be an effective cleanser for the whole face that doesn’t irritate the skin or your eyes, an all-too-common complaint with artificial makeup removers. As if that wasn’t enough, BABYFACE also nourishes your skin and its microbiome, too. We couldn’t live without it!

No matter the specifics of your skin or what you want from a cleansing product, LUMI have you covered – all without using those dreaded synthetic surfactants that are such bad news for both us and the environment!

Some Extra Tips for Great Skin Cleansing – Direct From Our LUMI Skincare Experts

1. Don’t double cleanse – It can be really tempting to overdo it when it comes to skincare products. If one dollop of something is good, then two must be even better, right? Unfortunately not. 

 This logic should never be used for cleansing! Products are formulated to be used exactly as their label suggests, and a second cleanse isn’t likely to make you cleaner, but instead degrade your skin and the helpful bacteria on its surface.

 2. Cleanse once a day – Most people know by now that washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils and cause more issues than it alleviates. A similar principle should be taken with your skin! 

Whilst cleansing is an essential part of any skincare routine, over-cleaning the skin will only serve to strip away essential oils from its surface, potentially leading to an overproduction of sebum and a host of other issues.

We recommend cleansing the skin once a day as part of your nighttime routine. There is little need to clean the skin after sleeping, and your skin will thank you for not overdoing it with the scrubbing!

 3. Use your fingers – You may have heard ‘tips’ suggesting that you use pads, cloths, or brushes whilst washing to better cleanse your skin. Some companies even sell electronic brushes that sand down your skin as if it were a piece of furniture!

Avoid all of these options, which range from pointless to downright detrimental. Your fingers are the perfect tool for washing your face, and as a bonus, they’re also completely free!

 4. Lukewarm water and nothing else – Do you often find that your skin is bright red after cleansing? Then you might be using water that’s too hot for your skin. Fight the temptation to scald your skin, and instead gently remove cleansing milk using lukewarm water. It’s just as effective, and a lot kinder to your skin!

On the topic of water, we recommend that you stick to simple H2O. There is really no need to use products such as micellar water to rinse off a cleanser, and it could potentially cause irritation and other issues. Your skin is built for water – stick to it!

 

Ready to ditch the synthetic surfactants and start giving your skin the kindness it craves? Click on either of the products mentioned above to be whisked away to our wonderful webstore. Looking for something else? Check out our entire range of science-backed, all-natural skincare solutions right here!

 

 

References:
  1.   Adu SA, Twigg MS, Naughton PJ, Marchant R, Banat IM. Glycolipid Biosurfactants in Skincare Applications: Challenges and Recommendations for Future Exploitation. Molecules. 2023 May 31;28(11):4463. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37298939/
  2.   Güder S Sr, Güder H. Investigation of the Chemical Content and User Comments on Facial Cleansing Products. Cureus. 2023 May 7;15(5):e38673. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10243403/
  3.   Leoty-Okombi, S.; Gillaizeau, F.; Leuillet, S.; Douillard, B.; Le Fresne-Languille, S.; Carton, T.; De Martino, A.; Moussou, P.; Bonnaud-Rosaye, C.; André, V. Effect of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Applied as a Patch on Human Skin Physiology and Its Microbiota. Cosmetics. 2021, 8, 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics8010006
  4.   Mijaljica D, Spada F, Harrison IP. Skin Cleansing without or with Compromise: Soaps and Syndets. Molecules. 2022 Mar 21;27(6):2010. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8954092/
  5.   Paciello S, Russo T, De Marchi L, Soares AMVM, Meucci V, Pretti C, He Y, Della Torre C, Freitas R. Sub-lethal effects induced in Mytilus galloprovincialis after short-term exposure to sodium lauryl sulfate: Comparison of the biological responses given by mussels under two temperature scenarios. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol. 2023 Aug;270:109644. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37149013/
  6.   Townsend N, Hazan A, Dell’Acqua G. New Topicals to Support a Healthy Scalp While Preserving the Microbiome: A Report of Clinical and in Vitro Studies. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2023 Oct;16(10 Suppl 1):S4-S11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10939504
  7.   Walters RM, Mao G, Gunn ET, Hornby S. Cleansing formulations that respect skin barrier integrity. Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:495917. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3425021/
  8.   Zhao H, Yu F, Wang C, Han Z, Liu S, Chen D, Liu D, Meng X, He X, Huang Z. The impacts of sodium lauroyl sarcosinate in facial cleanser on facial skin microbiome and lipidome. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Apr;23(4):1351-1359. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/
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How Menopause Affects the Skin – And How LUMI Can Help!

Menopause is something that half of the entire world will experience at some point in their lives. It’s very likely that every person reading this article knows someone who is going through menopause right now, in fact! The changes caused by menopause can often be dramatic, and can affect bodily functions as varied as our sleep, our hearts, our weight, our bladder, and our mental health.

It shouldn’t come as any surprise then that the menopause also affects the skin. Oftentimes, the effects of the menopause on skin are rolled into those of aging, with ‘anti-aging’ products touted as cures for everything. As anyone who has relied solely on these products already knows – this could not be further from the truth!

The reality is that menopause is a unique time for your body, with its own specific challenges to overcome, and problems that need to be addressed. It can be tough! But don’t fear, dear reader, for help is at hand. LUMI are here to assist, with a swathe of totally organic, science-backed solutions for any skin problem you may have. 

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some common menopause-related skin issues, as well as some fresh and fantastic LUMI products that will have your skin back to its best in no time!

Reduced Collagen and Elastin

One of the starkest changes you may notice during menopause is a decline in collagen and elastin within the skin. Women’s skin loses roughly 30% of collagen during the first five years of menopause, and a further 2% each year for the next two decades. This is because of a reduction in the amount of oestrogen present in the body.

The result of this collagen and elastin scarcity is that skin will begin to sag, losing its shape and firmness. Pores become larger, and wrinkles and facial lines that may have only appeared whilst making certain expressions might now be permanent features of the face. Skin barrier strength and wound healing properties of skin are also reduced, making you more physically vulnerable.

To remedy this situation, it’s important to assist skin in its production of collagen and elastin. Adding peptides to the skin, such as those found in our ICONIC Overnight Peptide Treatment, stimulates collagen production. Similarly, bakuchiol, found in several of our products, has been shown to have a retinol-like effect on skin, increasing collagen and elastin production. We recommend trying our ICONIC Well-Aging Treatment especially!

 

Skin Sensitivity and Newfound Allergies

The drop in oestrogen caused by menopause can in turn affect many properties of the skin, including its thickness and amount of sensitivity. It is common for those going through perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause to notice that skin is thinner and more sensitive than it once was.

In addition, because your hormone levels and immune system are linked, the sudden loss of estrogen that occurs during menopause can often bring with it newfound allergies to things you previously tolerated well. 

LUMI’s Bio-Klinik Series is Estonia’s first totally organic hypoallergenic skincare range. Each product has been specially designed to be used on any and all skin, no matter how sensitive, so they are the perfect fit for menopausal bodies going through a lot of change!

Melasma (Hyperpigmentation)

A combination of changing hormone levels and UV exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation of the face, hands, neck, and chest. This is sometimes called facial and extra-facial melasma. The condition is more likely to affect those with darker natural skin, and whilst benign, can affect our confidence and happiness with our appearance.

Interestingly, it is not thought that menopause itself causes the onset of melasma, but rather that one of the hormones used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), progesterone, is the primary reason for its appearance. For similar reasons, melasma can also affect pregnant women and women using some oral contraceptives.

LUMI have plenty of solutions to help you tackle hyperpigmentation. For topical use, we recommend one of our LUMI all-stars, the award-winning NAKED Hyaluronic Acid Multiserum. The multiserum’s unique composition helps with aforementioned melasma, as well as menopausal acne, rosacea, and much more. 

For extra help, the LUMITEEK Restore! Vitamin B3 (Niacin) food supplement tablets are the perfect source of a vital nutrient for your body that not only helps with hyperpigmentation, but also supports skin elasticity, reduces redness and blemishes, and has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects! 

Sweating, Dry Skin, and Itching

Menopause can cause your body to sweat much more profusely than usual. This is not just contained to the infamous ‘hot flashes’, either – studies have shown that women sweat more frequently and more intensely in general during menopause. Skin can also become very dry during the menopause. These two factors can both lead to prolonged periods of itchy skin that can make you feel very uncomfortable.

The solution to itchy skin will depend based on the root cause, but it’s always a great idea to cleanse skin effectively and moisturise skin thoroughly afterward. For cleansing, LUMI boasts an array of effective cleansing milks, including the fantastic Moisturising Cleansing Milk, which does a brilliant job of removing dirt, sweat, and other buildup from skin without being harsh enough to degrade skin cells and damage the skin’s microbiome.

For moisturising, we recommend our Bio-Klinik Restorative Moisturiser, a powerful cream that manages to be hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin, whilst still boasting a wealth of moisturising, anti-aging, and microbiome-restoring properties. It’s perfect for menopausal skin that may be feeling more sensitive than usual!

Menopausal Acne

Menopausal acne is surprisingly common amongst women going through menopause and can cause unwelcome discomfort at a point where life is already challenging! Much like with teenage acne, the main cause of menopausal acne is rapidly changing hormones and the imbalances that occur as a consequence. 

Our international award-winning LUMI Tundra range has been specially formulated for acne-prone skin. The three-part Tundra skincare routine bundle contains everything you might need to banish menopausal acne – an effective but gentle cleansing milk and moisturiser both containing AHA-BHA acids, and a yarrow facial mist with salicylic acid. It’s the perfect combination! 

Ready to help your skin stay at its most healthy and radiant throughout menopause and beyond? You can find our entire range of all-natural, award-winning skincare solutions right here!

Want to have a chat with one of our LUMI experts and figure out a skincare regime that’s tailormade for your skin? Contact us here – we love nothing more than helping people love their skin again!

 

 

References
  1. American Academy of Dermatology Association (2023). Caring for Your Skin in Menopause. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/skin-care-during-menopause 
  2. Calleja-Agius, J., & Brincat, M. (2012). The effect of menopause on the skin and other connective tissues. Gynecological endocrinology: the official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Endocrinology, 28(4), 273–277. https://doi.org/10.3109/09513590.2011.613970 
  3. Crandall, C. J., Mehta, J. M., & Manson, J. E. (2023). Management of Menopausal Symptoms: A Review. JAMA, 329(5), 405–420. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2022.24140 
  4. Khunger, N., & Mehrotra, K. (2019). Menopausal Acne – Challenges And Solutions. International journal of women’s health, 11, 555–567. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJWH.S174292 
  5. Lephart, E. D., & Naftolin, F. (2021). Menopause and the Skin: Old Favorites and New Innovations in Cosmeceuticals for Estrogen-Deficient Skin. Dermatology and therapy, 11(1), 53–69. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-020-00468-7 
  6. Mpofana, N., Chibi, B., Gqaleni, N., Hussein, A., Finlayson, A. J., Kgarosi, K., & Dlova, N. C. (2023). Melasma in people with darker skin types: a scoping review protocol on prevalence, treatment options for melasma and impact on quality of life. Systematic reviews, 12(1), 139. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-023-02300-7 
  7. Murota, H., Yamaga, K., Ono, E., Murayama, N., Yokozeki, H., & Katayama, I. (2019). Why does sweat lead to the development of itch in atopic dermatitis?. Experimental dermatology, 28(12), 1416–1421. https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.13981 
  8. Ritter, C. G., Fiss, D. V., Borges da Costa, J. A., de Carvalho, R. R., Bauermann, G., & Cestari, T. F. (2013). Extra-facial melasma: clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical case-control study. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology: JEADV, 27(9), 1088–1094. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3083.2012.04655.x 
  9. Thornton M. J. (2013). Estrogens and aging skin. Dermato-endocrinology, 5(2), 264–270. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.23872 
  10. University of Oxford Medical Sciences Division (2023). Symptoms of Menopause. https://www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/for-staff/resources/human-resources/menopause-at-work/symptoms-of-menopause
  11. Zouboulis, C. C., Blume-Peytavi, U., Kosmadaki, M., Roó, E., Vexiau-Robert, D., Kerob, D., & Goldstein, S. R. (2022). Skin, hair and beyond: the impact of menopause. Climacteric: the journal of the International Menopause Society, 25(5), 434–442. https://doi.org/10.1080/13697137.2022.2050206
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Keratosis Pilaris – How LUMI Can Help Relieve ‘Chicken Skin’

The name keratosis pilaris might sound unfamiliar to you, but the likelihood is that you know someone with the condition or even have it yourself! It’s one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting roughly 40% of adults, and goes by many different names, including follicular keratosis and ‘chicken skin’.

Whilst keratosis pilaris is an ultimately benign disease, its symptoms can cause distress, affecting our body image and making us less confident as a result. Frequently, people choose to ignore these symptoms, despite treatment being surprisingly simple and involving skincare solutions that will protect and rejuvenate skin more generally, too.

Today, we explore exactly what keratosis pilaris is, how this condition comes about, and how you can effectively beat its symptoms with LUMI. Let’s take a look!   

What Actually Is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is thought to be a genetic condition, and usually causes skin to feel rough, dry, and bumpy – as if you were suffering from permanent goosebumps! The condition generally first appears during childhood, and is even more common in children than adults, affecting somewhere between 50-70% of teenagers.

Most commonly found on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks, keratosis pilaris occurs when excess keratin (a protein that helps form hair, nails, and skin) builds up in your hair follicles. For some people, it can even be found on the face and eyebrows, and is often accompanied by skin redness.

Several variants of keratosis pilaris exist, each with accompanying symptoms, including rubra (red, inflamed, grain-like bumps), alba (dry and rough with no redness), and atrophicans (indents or depressions in the skin’s surface). 

Though the variants may look quite different, treatment-at-home guidelines remain largely the same. The condition may become worse during summer or winter for various reasons, including skin drying out more or clothes rubbing on affected areas.

It’s also associated with a number of other skin diseases such as atopic eczema and ichthyosis vulgaris (a condition that causes dry and scaly skin), as well as several diseases throughout the body that all involve an overproduction of keratin. 

Fighting Back Against ‘Chicken Skin’ with LUMI!

If you suffer from keratosis pilaris, then we have good news – the condition’s symptoms are very treatable and respond well to some simple skincare approaches. Whilst the condition is not currently curable, managing its symptoms can greatly reduce discomfort and have you feeling your best again!

Fundamentally, keratosis pilaris treatment revolves around improving the condition of the skin – through moisturising, exfoliating, and the use of keratolytics which break down the excess keratin buildup on the surface of the skin.

Any LUMI moisturiser will work wonders in bringing hydration back to your skin, but in this case, we particularly recommend our Bio-Klinik Moisture Lock Body Cream. The Bio-Klinik series is Estonia’s first prebiotic, hypoallergenic skincare range, and was designed from the ground up to be suitable for any skin, no matter, the age, sensitivity, or condition.

For exfoliation, look no further than our brilliant Smooth Estonian AHA-BHA Anti-Cellulite Gel. As the name implies, this gel uses AHA and BHA acids to gently exfoliate skin, whilst also strengthening tissues and adding bounce back to skin by stimulating collagen production. Skin is left feeling gloriously smooth and plump! The included lactic and salicylic acid are also keratolytics that break down keratin.

The Nudist Hyaluronic Acid Body Serum is an incredibly versatile option that does it all! It’s a multifunctional moisturiser with hyaluronic acid and prebiotics, hydrating your skin and reducing wrinkles, whilst also strengthening skin and nurturing the microbiome. The citric acid also found within the serum is a potent keratolytic agent – what more could you want?

For skin needing a bit of extra TLC, we recommend our Professional 15% AHA Peel Exfoliator; a professional-grade exfoliating treatment to be used weekly. The peel’s acid-based exfoliation activates collagen, elastin, and ceramide production, making skin feel firmer, healthier, and more youthful. The included natural acids also work as keratolytics.

A weekly peel combined with daily use of Smooth Estonian or Nudist is a potent one-two punch for keratosis pilaris symptoms!

 

References
  1. British Association of Dermatologists, (2024). Keratosis Pilaris. https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/keratosis-pilaris/ 
  2. Fenner, J., & Silverberg, N. B. (2018). Skin diseases associated with atopic dermatitis. Clinics in dermatology, 36(5), 631–640. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clindermatol.2018.05.004 
  3. Health, (2023). What Is Keratosis Pilaris? https://www.health.com/keratosis-pilaris-7504889 
  4. Pennycook, K. B., & McCready , T. A. (2023). Keratosis Pilaris. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546708/ 
  5. Thomas, M., & Khopkar, U. S. (2012). Keratosis pilaris revisited: is it more than just a follicular keratosis? International journal of trichology, 4(4), 255–258. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-7753.111215 
  6. Wang, J. F., & Orlow, S. J. (2018). Keratosis Pilaris and its Subtypes: Associations, New Molecular and Pharmacologic Etiologies, and Therapeutic Options. American journal of clinical dermatology, 19(5), 733–757. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-018-0368-3 
  7. Wang, M. A., Wilson, A., & Murrell, D. F. (2023). A Review of the Scoring and Assessment of Keratosis Pilaris. Skin appendage disorders, 9(4), 241–251. https://doi.org/10.1159/000529487
  8. Yosipovitch, G., Mevorah, B., Mashiach, J., Chan, Y. H., & David, M. (2000). High body mass index, dry scaly leg skin and atopic conditions are highly associated with keratosis pilaris. Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland), 201(1), 34–36. https://doi.org/10.1159/000018425
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LUMI in the Streets, LUMI in the Sheets – Re-ignite Your Spark This Valentines with CBD!

Do you feel like heating things up in the bedroom this Valentine’s Day and beyond? Then look no further than LUMI! We’ve searched high and low to create two fabulous sensual enhancers that are sure to fire things up this February 14th.

Unlocking the power of your endocannabinoid system, these potent CBD-infused bedroom essentials will have you and your partner brimming with the energy and sensuality of that very first night spent together!

And because they’re from LUMI, you know that they’re all-natural and backed by the latest scientific research – as always! What more could you ask for? So, come with us, dear reader, and you’ll soon see those sparks of passion flying once more…

CBD & Sex: The Science Behind A Match Made in Heaven

For quite some time, research has indicated that the topical application of products containing cannabidiol (CBD) is linked to enhanced sexual satisfaction.

This revelation may not be surprising to those who are already acquainted with CBD, one of the predominant cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Known for its calming and relaxing properties, CBD, when applied to intimate areas, helps to ease tissue tension, generates a sensation of warmth, and creates a subtle buzz. This effect promotes increased blood flow in the tissues, leading to natural lubrication and heightened sensitivity.

The intimate area is rich in endocannabinoid receptors. Our body naturally synthesizes anandamide, a neurotransmitter often referred to as the “well-being” hormone or even the “orgasm hormone,” due to its association with orgasm and oxytocin, the hormone commonly known as the “love hormone.” Anandamide binds to the same endocannabinoid receptors that full-spectrum CBD from hemp leaves attaches to, making CBD a natural counterpart to anandamide.

This connection allows CBD to enhance sexual experiences significantly.

Unlock Your Most Sensual Self with LUMI!

So, now you know the science behind it all, it’s high time we showed you what we’ve been working on in LUMI towers!

Let’s start things off with our Natural High Orgasm Drops with CBD. These concentrated drops of joy will relax the body, quicken blood flow in all the right places, and will help anandamide – that all important ‘bliss hormone’ from earlier – really get going throughout the body.

Just apply a few drops to intimate areas fifteen minutes beforehand, then lay back and relax! Take this time to set the mood, engage in a little back-and-forth fun (we recommend giving one another a sensual full-body massage), and excitedly await the night of passion that is sure to unfold!

When you’re ready to get hot and heavy, grab the Bedroom Bliss Intimate Oil with CBD (if you haven’t already cracked it open for massaging). This entirely natural oil has all the goodness of the orgasm drops, but is formulated to be perfect for adding lubrication wherever its needed, as well as heightening your body’s states of relaxation and arousal.

You’ll need to warm up the intimate oil with your hands first, as the unrefined organic coconut oil base only liquifies at 24 degrees and above. Once it’s suitably smooth, give the bottle a hearty shake, and let the good times roll!

Apply liberally, and without neglecting the most sensitive areas. You’ll thank us later!

What’s that? You don’t want to choose between our two wonderfully sensual bedroom essentials? We hear you! That’s why we’ve created the extra-special Bedroom Essentials bundle, bringing you both orgasm drops and intimate oil, with a cheeky little discount thrown in there for good measure. You can’t say we don’t treat you!

Ready to supercharge your amorous adventures this Valentine’s Day? Click the links above to be taken straight to our online store! Or do you fancy treating yourself to a special something that’s just for you? Take a look at our entire range of totally organic, science-backed skincare solutions right here.

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Seek, Sense, Savor – Your Guide To Navigating the World of Perfumes

Choosing a new perfume? Here are a few simple rules we always follow!

Open Minds Venture Further

It’s true that sometimes we know exactly what we want in life. More often, however, we simply think we do. Perfume is an adventure into sense, and you’ll travel a lot further if you keep your mind open. Try something you’ve never considered before. If a perfume has a specific ingredient you don’t typically enjoy, try it anyway. Live a little! The more you experiment with scent, the more likely you are to unearth a hidden gem.

Patience Really is a Virtue

Each perfume is a unique beast with its own method of taming. Multiple factors contribute to the way scent opens up on your skin – your hormones, humidity, and even the time of year can all alter a fragrance as it mixes with your body’s natural smell. If you don’t enjoy the way a perfume smells right now, don’t throw it away just yet; try applying it in a different season, or simply give it some time. We don’t wear the same clothes all year round, even if we love them, and sometimes neglected pieces become wardrobe staples years later. The same can happen with perfume!

There’s No Shame in a One Night Stand

Sales consultants, for obvious reasons, will tell you to act on any positive impulse you have. “If you like it, get it!”, they cry, trying to convince you of a purchase before the rational part of your brain has a chance to kick into gear. Run away from these kinds of people and never visit them again. 

You are allowed, and should be encouraged, to take all the time you need to become accustomed to a scent. Try it on your skin, walk around, have a coffee – let it breathe. You may even want to sleep with a scent, giving it a full night’s rest before coming back the next day. Never judge too quickly – truly great scents develop and open up over time. As a minimum, give any scent 15-20 minutes to see how things open up.

Start Small

“I’m saving money by buying a larger bottle. It’s more economical!” – a classic white lie that we have all told ourselves at some point. Perfume – whilst beautiful and to be cherished and adored as a form of art – is not a necessity. There is no prescribed amount of scent that one needs in their life, and thus, buying more of it than originally intended is not an economic win, no matter how good the deal may seem.

Instead, get a smaller size, or use that same amount of money you may have spent on 100ml of one perfume to pick up a discovery set, allowing you to try so much more of what the world of fragrances has to offer. This will help you build your perfume wardrobe and, ultimately, get more from your money.

Trust Yourself

Just as with anything in life, know that your preference is ultimately the most important factor to consider. You are the one wearing the scent; not your friends who think it’s the bomb, not the sales assistant with commission numbers in their eyes, or even your significant other. Scent is fundamentally for you and you alone, and you won’t find a perfect match if you’re worrying about what others think. 

Perfume can be many things – a warm blanket, a time machine, or even a set of shining armour for us. It can be a roaring crescendo, or that lingering last touch. An invisible signature, your love letter to today, or an everlasting memory of the good times. Perfume is whatever you make of it, so go ahead and make it the most beautiful, striking, and wearable art you’ve ever possessed. 

But above all, make it yours.

Love is in the AER

To assist you, we’ve created an insightful guide to AER Perfumes‘ delightful scents, offering you a virtual glimpse of their essence before making your purchase.

AER Perfumes offers a range of scents, each unique and carefully crafted to deliver a memorable fragrance experience. From the deep, woody notes to the light, floral undertones, there’s a scent for every preference and occasion. Our guide provides a brief description of each perfume, helping you imagine their aroma and feel, even before the first spritz. Whether you’re drawn to the fresh, invigorating scents of summer mornings or the rich, complex aromas of a forest at dusk, our guide aims to help you navigate through our collection.

Dive into the world of AER Perfumes and find your next signature scent, a scent that not just complements your style but also embarks you on a sensory journey like no other.


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Why are AHA acids beneficial for the skin?

The primary effect of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) lies in their keratolytic capability, which weakens the bonds holding dead skin cells together. As these bonds loosen, dead cells shed from the skin’s surface, revealing fresher, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. This results in a light sensation and gives the impression that the skin is “breathing.”

Acid peeling stimulates the production of collagen, elastin, and ceramides in the skin. These components are essential for maintaining plump, healthy, and youthful-looking skin.

Regular acid peeling aids in cleansing the pores, leading to a noticeable reduction in inflammations and pimples over time. It also accelerates the fading of post-inflammatory signs, such as redness and pigmentation, on the skin. Additionally, acid peeling is effective for dry skin as it helps remove the dry layer on the skin’s surface, enhancing the absorption of serums and creams

Start your LUMI 15% AHA PLANT PEEL treatment now!

This approach allows the skin to recover before the intense spring sunshine while simultaneously preventing the exacerbation of common springtime skin issues, such as increased sebum secretion, surface dryness, or a worsening of inflammatory processes. It is recommended to use the acid peel once a week for a duration of six weeks.

LUMI 15% AHA PLANT PEEL offers maximum results with minimum irritation.

The AHA exfoliating offers a range of benefits, including:

  • Deep cleansing and tightening of pores;
  • Reduction in sebum secretion;
  • Relief from inflammation and acne;
  • Smoothing of wrinkles and scars;
  • Rejuvenation of the skin;
  • Relief from dryness;
  • Evening out of the skin tone;
  • Enhanced absorption of skincare products;
  • Improved skin texture, resulting in more even makeup application.

For optimal results, it’s recommended to undergo an acid peel once a week for a duration of six weeks, as part of a course. If needed, the course can be completed in a shorter period, but it’s important not to exceed a frequency of once per week. The product is potent, and the skin requires time to recover. With each passing week, you’ll notice the acid peeling becoming increasingly effective.

Apply a thin, even layer of the acid peeler to clean, damp skin using gentle massaging motions with a soft brush, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Avoid the eye area. For sensitive, thin, or couperose skin, reduce the application time to between 5 and 10 minutes, adjusting as necessary. The scrub can also be used on the décolleté, shoulders, and back to address issues like blockages, inflamed pimples, or roughness.

A week before and after using the exfoliator it’s advisable to avoid sun tanning, using products containing vitamin A (including retinol), and any other activities that might irritate the skin.

After exfoliating, rejuvenate your skin with LUMI moisturising serum, cream, or mask. It’s crucial to hydrate and nourish the newly exposed fresh skin cells, as they will absorb these nutrients more effectively after the acid peel.

TIP! To prevent ingrown hairs on the legs or bikini area, use the LUMI 15% AHA plant peel. This effective solution makes strawberry skin a thing of the past! Apply it 1-2 times a week, and follow up with the Nudist+Bio-Klinik smoothie for daily hydration. This routine not only prevents ingrown hairs but also helps heal inflammations caused by existing ones. Your legs will be perfectly prepared for the first time you wear skirts this season! Remember, apply Nudist immediately after waxing or shaving to soothe the skin.

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Beauty is Anything But Skin Deep – How Vitamins and Minerals are Vital for Keeping Skin Healthy!

Keep your skin at its radiant best with our LUMITEEK series of vital nutritional supplements!

Gym-goers know well the phrase ‘you cannot out-train a poor diet’, and much is the same for skin health. Your skin, like the rest of your body, is a reflection of the nutrients you make available to it. If your skin is lacking the vital building blocks it needs to repair itself and function properly, then issues are bound to follow!

We can infuse the skin directly with most resources through creams, serums, and balms, but this will always be an uphill battle if the body is not properly nourished. 

If we want to avoid preventable skin diseases and keep our skin at its healthy and radiant best, then we need to provide it with all the vitamins it so readily craves. With busy lifestyles and modern food’s lack of nutrients, however, that can be a daunting task.

That’s where LUMI comes in! Our LUMITEEK range of dietary supplements has been specially formed to address common deficiencies that may be preventing your skin from returning to its natural healthy radiance. With a holistic approach that treats skin issues from the inside as well as out, your chances of success are that much higher!

Let’s explore some of our most popular supplements, looking at why they’re important for our bodies and why our clients love them so much!

LUMITEEK No. 1 – Zinc

We’ve written at length before about the benefits of zinc and the symptoms of zinc deficiency. It’s one of our favourite topics, in fact, because zinc plays such an important role in the health of skin and our entire bodies. The mineral contributes towards cell renewal, collagen production, and wound repair, as well as being an important antioxidant.

It’s so important to our skin, in fact, that a zinc deficiency can lead to a range of skin diseases, including rosacea, eczematous dermatitis, acne, and psoriasis, with symptoms improving once zinc was administered. Zinc supplements are also often given to those suffering from infectious and inflammatory diseases, but it’s always a good idea to keep your body topped up no matter how you’re feeling. Your skin will thank you!

Our LUMITEEK Essential! Bioactive Zinc capsules contain easily absorbable zinc diglycinate, perfect for keeping your skin healthy, powerful, and radiant. For ultimate protection, try combining zinc with skin superstar niacinamide – grab both at once with our brilliant LUMITEEK Skinguard! B3 Vitamin + Bioactive Zinc bundle!

LUMITEEK No. 2 – Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Niacin, or Vitamin B3, is a hot topic in the skincare world (see our blog all about it right here!). A darling of the industry, niacin is one of the few wonder ingredients that really does live up to the hype! It’s found naturally in lots of foods and is vital for the functioning of the body as a whole, including energy conversion, healthy cholesterol and fat synthesis, DNA creation and repair, and antioxidation.

With regards to skin, the vitamin has been shown to improve skin barrier function, reduce pore size and the production of sebum, increase collagen levels, reduce redness, and minimise hyperpigmentation and sallowness. Niacin binds with compounds in the body to create NAD+, a coenzyme that has been shown to be vital for keeping skin youthful by preserving its ability to replicate and function properly.

Niacin really is a skin superstar!

Here at LUMI, we only use the niacinamide form of niacin in our products, including our LUMITEEK Restore! Vitamin B3 (Niacin) supplements. This derivative of niacin is well tolerated by the body and does not cause skin flushing, unlike niacin in the form of nicotinic acid. It’s always worth checking the labels of products containing niacin to see what’s really inside!

LUMITEEK No. 3 – Selenium

Selenium is an often overlooked but essential trace element that has an important function in the body. Primarily an antioxidant, selenium plays a vital role in eliminating free radicals – these wayward particles speed up aging by damaging healthy cells. Selenium has also been shown to play a role in minimising some cancers and boosting immunity, whilst oxidative stress (something antioxidants reduce) has been linked to a host of skin and wider body issues.

There is a clear link between selenium levels and the prevalence of some skin diseases. Studies have found that high selenium levels tended to be a protective factor with regards to the prevalence of psoriasis, acne, and atopic dermatitis. The benefits of antioxidants for skin are well-documented, reducing inflammation and helping your body properly repair itself.

Humans are incapable of synthesising selenium themselves, so must rely on external sources to acquire this vital ingredient for proper bodily functioning. Our LUMITEEK Cellular Health! Selenium supplements contain a bioactive, highly absorbable form of selenium that provide your body with the perfect daily amount needed to keep you at your best and keep those pesky free radicals at bay!

LUMITEEK No. 4 – Beauty & Brains! Bioactive B-Complex

What could be better for you than a single vitamin boost? Why, a whole host of vitamins, of course! B vitamins are completely essential to our bodies, performing an incredibly wide and varied set of functions within us. From heart function to cell division, and from immunity support to amino acid synthesis, B vitamins are integral to every single cell in our body.

That includes the largest organ of all – the skin! Our LUMITEEK Beauty & Brains! Bioactive B-Complex supplements contain a wide range of vitamins B1 through to B9, providing your body with key nutrients that keep the body functioning smoothly and keep skin looking healthy and radiant.

B vitamins’ role in skin health has been well documented. We’ve already talked at length of the benefits of Niacin (B3), but other B vitamins have an important role, too. For example, biotin (B7) deficiency is associated with alopecia and the appearance of scaly dermatitis on areas of skin, whilst riboflavin (B2) has antioxidant properties. 

Every vitamin included in the supplement brings its own benefits to the table, and is research-proven to be vital for the proper functioning of your body, inside and out!

Ready to give your skin the nutritional boost it’s been craving? Find our entire range of LUMITEEK supplements right here. Looking for something else? You can view every one of our science-led, totally organic skincare solutions here!

 

References
  1. Gupta, M., Mahajan, V. K., Mehta, K. S., & Chauhan, P. S. (2014). Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatology research and practice, 2014, 709152. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/709152 
  2. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (2023). The Nutrition Source – Niacin – Vitamin B3. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/niacin-vitamin-b3/ 
  3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (2023). The Nutrition Source – Selenium. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/selenium/ 
  4. Kogan, S., Sood, A., & Garnick, M. S. (2017). Zinc and Wound Healing: A Review of Zinc Physiology and Clinical Applications. Wounds: a compendium of clinical research and practice, 29(4), 102–106. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28448263/ 
  5. Levin, J., & Momin, S. B. (2010). How much do we really know about our favorite cosmeceutical ingredients? The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 3(2), 22–41. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2921764/ 
  6. Lv, J., Ai, P., Lei, S., Zhou, F., Chen, S., & Zhang, Y. (2020). Selenium levels and skin diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology: organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS), 62, 126548. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtemb.2020.126548 
  7. Mahabadi, N., Bhusal, A., & Banks, S. W. (2023). Riboflavin Deficiency. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262062
  8. Mock D. M. (1991). Skin manifestations of biotin deficiency. Seminars in dermatology, 10(4), 296–302. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1764357 
  9. Oblong J. E. (2014). The evolving role of the NAD+/nicotinamide metabolome in skin homeostasis, cellular bioenergetics, and aging. DNA repair, 23, 59–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dnarep.2014.04.005 
  10. Tinggi U. (2008). Selenium: its role as antioxidant in human health. Environmental health and preventive medicine, 13(2), 102–108. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-007-0019-4
  11. Zou, P., Du, Y., Yang, C., & Cao, Y. (2023). Trace element zinc and skin disorders. Frontiers in medicine, 9, 1093868. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2022.1093868
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It’s Official – LUMI Has Europe’s BEST Natural Night Cream!

Science and nature combine forces in our award-winning ICONIC Overnight Peptide Treatment!

Natural skincare has changed. Whereas twenty years ago, the scope of organic skin treatment may have been limited to essential oils and simple herbal remedies, nowadays we see complex natural solutions that rival the efficacy of factory-produced industrial products – and often surpass them!

It’s safe to say that we are currently witnessing something of a revolution in skincare, lead by biotechnology advances and millions of people realising that what you do not include in your products is just as important as what goes in them. With every scientific breakthrough, we see the skincare landscape move away from harsh chemicals and isolated solutions, towards a more holistic approach to treatment that is kinder and more nourishing to skin.

As ever, LUMI leads this charge towards better skin health! Whether through our use of algae-based silica that is kinder to the planet and brings more benefits to our skin, or our adoption of the fantastic plant-based retinol alternative Bakuchiol, you will always find us at the cutting edge of natural science.

This science-first approach to organic skincare has never been more apparent than in our ICONIC Overnight Peptide Treatment. A gold medal winner in 2023’s European Natural Beauty Awards, this night cream represents the perfect combination of science and nature!

ICONIC Overnight Peptide Treatment is designed to prevent premature skin aging and lighten pigmentation spots without harming the skin’s microbiome – a concern that many artificial skincare products ignore, despite its vital importance to skin health.

Fermentation-derived peptides and other compounds help stimulate collagen production in the body, as well as the skin’s metabolism and regenerative capacity. By doing so, ICONIC Overnight Peptide Treatment causes cells to temporarily ‘lose memory’, relaxing and smoothing out wrinkles caused by tension and aging. The treatment’s organic cream base also helps to bring moisture to the skin – a vital component in any treatment!

Included cannabinoids help to repopulate and correct the body’s endocannabinoid system, a potent and oft-overlooked system of transmitters and receptors within the body that help us achieve homeostasis (the body’s natural balance). Combine the overnight peptide treatment with our ICONIC day cream for a 24-hour protective combination that’s sure to revitalise, repair, and reinforce your facial skin!

Ready to give your facial skin the ICONIC boost it’s been craving? Check out our award-winning night cream and other ICONIC products here. Want to see our full range of technology-driven, organic skincare solutions? Look right here!

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Bakuchiol: A Kinder Retinol That’s Just As Effective

The Retinoid Revolution

If you’re interested in skincare, then it’s likely you’ve already heard of retinol and retinoids. First discovered in 1913 and steadily developed through four generations over the last half-century, retinoids are natural or synthetic derivatives of vitamin A. They are lauded by much of the skincare industry and surrounding media for their effectiveness and wide applications in medicine and cosmetology.

But that’s not the whole story! Retinol use can bring with it a host of unwelcome side effects, including skin dryness, peeling, and stinging. For decades, users of retinol have put up with this pain and discomfort, assuming that this was the price they must pay for better skin.

This doesn’t have to be the case, however! Bakuchiol, a completely natural compound found within the babchi plant, has shown remarkably similar properties to retinol, with none of the typical side-effects that regular retinoid users have come to dread.

Interested in learning more? Then come with us, dear reader, as we explain the science behind bakuchiol, and how you really can have your cake and eat it, too!

The Highs and Lows of Vitamin A

First granted approval as a topical medicine in the US in 1971, retinoids have become extremely popular in the treatment of acne, photoaged (aging from sun exposure) skin, hyperpigmentation, and several other skin complaints. They consistently perform in both scientific studies and consumer reviews, and have gained a reputation throughout the skincare landscape as a high-efficacy ingredient.

Retinol works by bolstering the body’s natural processes of wound healing. This process is usually incredibly effective, regenerating our bodies over and over, but can be disrupted by age, disease, and other factors, resulting in imperfect healing (scarring, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and more). Retinoids help facilitate proper wound healing by increasing the amount of cell differentiation/specialisation, proliferation, and apoptosis (programmed and orderly cell death, ready for new cells to take their place). By reducing the production of sebum, retinoids are also effective at reducing oily skin and blackheads.

That is an impressive list of benefits, but there is unfortunately another side to retinoids. The vitamin A derivatives can cause a host of unwelcome side effects, including pain, inflammation, and hypersensitivity. Burning, redness and peeling are so common amongst users of retinol that the ‘retinoid reaction’ has become a popular term in scientific study of the topic. Skin scaling and dermatitis are also reported side-effects, as well as photosensitivity (heightened sensitivity to UV).

Perhaps because of their positive effects, users seem willing to put up with a staggering list of negatives when it comes to retinoids. Wouldn’t it be ideal, researchers and users wondered in the late twentieth century, if something out there could work like retinol, but without the drawbacks?

The Promise of Bakuchiol

Enter bakuchiol! First found within the babchi plant during the mid-twentieth century, bakuchiol has been the subject of much excitement and experimentation in the last fifty years. The benefits of bakuchiol are quite stunning when taken as a whole. There is reputable clinical evidence that bakuchiol has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects, as well as having protective functions concerning the heart, liver, skin, and other organs.

How do these benefits compare with retinol, though? Exceedingly well! Studies have found that bakuchiol, despite having no structural similarity to retinol, functions in much the same way as retinoids do on skin. The gene expression profile (a method of measuring impact on cell activity) for both compounds is remarkably similar.

Randomised, double-blind academic research found bakuchiol to be entirely similar to retinol when it came to reversing signs of photoaging, whilst being much better tolerated. Similar studies have been conducted that find bakuchiol significantly improving users’ wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, skin elasticity, and firmness, all whilst causing fewer side effects than retinol.

It’s clear from the scientific evidence that bakuchiol is one of the most exciting, skincare breakthroughs of the last thirty years. Retinol, itself once considered the cutting edge of skin science, now looks as if its time in the sun is over (no pun intended)!

Same Results, Happier Skin

So, there you have it – bakuchiol has all the benefits of traditional retinoids, with far fewer drawbacks. And it’s completely natural and plant-derived, too; it’s a win-win! That’s why we here at LUMI simply refuse to use any retinoids in our products, despite them being cheaper. If we wouldn’t use it on our own faces, why would we ever allow it to end up on yours?

If you’re interested in adding bakuchiol and all its amazing benefits to your skincare routine, you can take a look at our products here. We particularly recommend the 40 & ICONIC Set, which combines our fantastic bakuchiol-rich skin cream with Superbloom toning mist and vitamin C night serum. The results are so fantastic, they must be seen to be believed!

References:
  1. Baldwin, H., Webster, G., Stein Gold, L., Callender, V., Cook-Bolden, F. E., & Guenin, E. (2021). 50 Years of Topical Retinoids for Acne: Evolution of Treatment. American journal of clinical dermatology,22(3), 315–327. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-021-00594-8
  2. Buchanan, P. J., & Gilman, R. H. (2016). Retinoids: Literature Review and Suggested Algorithm for Use Prior to Facial Resurfacing Procedures. Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery, 9(3), 139–144. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.191653
  3. Chaudhuri, R. K., & Bojanowski, K. (2014). Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. International journal of cosmetic science, 36(3), 221–230. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12117
  4. Cosmetics & Toiletries (2023, June 19). Inside Ingredients: Bakuchiol. https://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/cosmetic-ingredients/actives/article/22865115/inside-ingredients-bakuchiol
  5. Dhaliwal, S., Rybak, I., Ellis, S. R., Notay, M., Trivedi, M., Burney, W., Vaughn, A. R., Nguyen, M., Reiter, P., Bosanac, S., Yan, H., Foolad, N., & Sivamani, R. K. (2019). Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. The British journal of dermatology, 180(2), 289–296. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.16918
  6. Hofmann, G. A., & Weber, B. (2021). Drug-induced photosensitivity: culprit drugs, potential mechanisms and clinical consequences. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft = Journal of the German Society of Dermatology : JDDG, 19(1), 19–29. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddg.14314
  7. Motamedi, M., Chehade, A., Sanghera, R., & Grewal, P. (2022). A Clinician’s Guide to Topical Retinoids. Journal of cutaneous medicine and surgery, 26(1), 71–78. https://doi.org/10.1177/12034754211035091
  8. Mukherjee, S., Date, A., Patravale, V., Korting, H. C., Roeder, A., & Weindl, G. (2006). Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical interventions in aging, 1(4), 327–348. https://doi.org/10.2147/ciia.2006.1.4.327
  9. Szymański, Ł., Skopek, R., Palusińska, M., Schenk, T., Stengel, S., Lewicki, S., Kraj, L., Kamiński, P., & Zelent, A. (2020). Retinoic Acid and Its Derivatives in Skin. Cells, 9(12), 2660. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells9122660
  10. The Guardian. Hughes, Sali (2023, September 29). Retinoids work, wipes don’t: 21 things I’ve learned about skin care. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/sep/29/21-things-ive-learned-about-skin-care-sali-hughes
  11. Wysocka, M. (2022). Bakuchiol – a plant-based retinol. The review article. Aesthetic Cosmetology and Medicine. https://doi.org/10.52336/acm.2022.031
  12. Xin, Z., Wu, X., Ji, T., Xu, B., Han, Y., Sun, M., Jiang, S., Li, T., Hu, W., Deng, C., & Yang, Y. (2019). Bakuchiol: A newly discovered warrior against organ damage. Pharmacological research, 141, 208–213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2019.01.001
  13. Yin, S., Luo, J., Qian, A., Du, J., Yang, Q., Zhou, S., Yu, W., Du, G., Clark, R. B., Walters, E. T., Carlton, S. M., & Hu, H. (2013). Retinoids activate the irritant receptor TRPV1 and produce sensory hypersensitivity. The Journal of clinical investigation, 123(9), 3941–3951. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI66413
  14. Zasada, M., & Budzisz, E. (2019). Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Postepy dermatologii i alergologii, 36(4), 392–397. https://doi.org/10.5114/ada.2019.87443
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Happy Baby, Happy Parents: How LUMI Can Help Alleviate Common Skin Issues in Babies

Baby skin can be a unique challenge for a parent. Not only can little ones suffer more from skin diseases than older children or adults, but they can’t communicate with us or help themselves, either. What’s more, as a new parent, you’ve already got your plate full with hectic days and sleepless nights. It’s a stressful situation!

There’s no need to fear, however, because help is at hand! LUMI are here with a brilliant cast of skincare solutions for even the most sensitive skin that are sure to leave mum and baby smiling once more.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common infant skin conditions, and how LUMI can help keep those anguished cries and new parent fears at bay!

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema and is characterised by dry, painful rashes anywhere on the body that can itch and become sore, as well as making skin more vulnerable to infection. The majority of atopic dermatitis sufferers first begin showing signs of the disease before they are six months old. It is thought that atopic dermatitis is likely an autoimmune condition with no cure, though symptoms do improve for some children as they get older. 

As there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, treating its symptoms and reducing discomfort is of paramount importance. Moisturising affected skin daily is vital for maintaining and strengthening your baby’s skin, which will reduce their irritation and chance of infection. 

LUMI’s Bio-Klinik series is Estonia’s first prebiotic and hypoallergenic skincare product line. Our Bio-Klinik Body Cream is specially formulated to be used by all ages and on even the most sensitive of skin – perfect for keeping your little one moisturised and protected, no matter what ails them.

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is an ultimately harmless but quite unsightly condition that causes greasy, crusty patches to appear on a baby’s head (and occasionally other areas). You may be tempted to pick these scales, but doing so may harm your little one and can lead to infection.

Instead, try using a small amount of LUMI’s La-Laa Baby Oil on the affected area. Massage the oil gently into the scalp to help loosen and remove the flakes; you may want to use a very soft brush to assist. La-Laa’s organic composition is food-safe quality and packed with antioxidants and vitamins to give little ones extra protection. Be sure to rinse all oil off afterwards, as leaving any on the scalp may lead to a recurrence of the issue. 

Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is an extremely common condition characterised by inflamed or irritated patches of skin on your baby’s bottom, inner thighs, or genitals. This can be caused by prolonged contact with wet diapers or by chafing at the point where the diaper meets your little one’s skin.

If you notice a diaper rash on your baby, you should try to check and change their diaper more frequently, and ensure that diapers and clothing are not fitted too tightly. To reduce the immediate symptoms of diaper rash, try using a cream or ointment such as LUMI’s Lullaby Rescue Balm – the zinc contained within is a tried-and-tested solution that reduces and prevents irritation.

Newborn Skin Peeling

Whilst not necessarily a skin disease, new parents may notice their child’s skin peeling immediately after birth. Skin peeling can last for a couple of weeks and is more common for babies born after their due date. 

The condition will usually resolve itself without any intervention from parents or other caregivers, but you may want to apply a moisturiser suitable for babies’ skin – such as LUMI’s Bio-Klinik Body Cream – to maintain the strength and protection of your little one’s skin barrier.

Get Set with LUMI!

Hopefully this brief dive into common baby skin issues has helped allay some first-time parent fears, and equipped with you the knowledge you need to deal with things like a pro. If you’re looking to pick up some of the LUMI solutions mentioned here for yourself or a new mum you’d like to spoil, look no further than our brilliant combo sets! 

Our LUMI Don’t Worry, Baby set makes for the perfect gift for an expecting mum. The set contains our fragrance-free, award-winning La-Laa Baby Oil, the versatile and multifunctional Lullaby Rescue Balm with non-nano zinc, and our latest offering, Baby On The Way multi-nutrient supplements, full of essential vitamins to help mum and baby get off to the perfect start!

Need an even more luxurious option? Try our Queen Mom set, containing everything from Don’t Worry, Baby, as well as our fantastic Bedroom Bliss Intimate Oil with CBD, sure to help new parents get their groove back in the bedroom!

References:
  1.   Cleveland Clinic, (2023, September 19). If Your Newborn Has Peeling Skin, Here’s What That Means. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/newborn-skin-peeling/
  2.   Hebert A. A. (2021). A new therapeutic horizon in diaper dermatitis: Novel agents with novel action. International journal of women’s dermatology, 7(4), 466–470. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.02.003
  3.   Mayo Clinic, (2023). Cradle Cap. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cradle-cap/symptoms-causes/syc-20350396
  4.   Mayo Clinic, (2023). Diaper Rash. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaper-rash/symptoms-causes/syc-20371636
  5.   National Eczema Assocition, (2023). Atopic Dermatitis. https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/atopic-dermatitis/
  6.   NHS, (2023). Cradle cap. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cradle-cap/
  7. NI Direct, (2023). Eczema (atopic). https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/eczema-atopic
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Breaking Point: The Impact of Stress on Skin, and How LUMI and PĒLL Can Help!

The modern world is a stressful place. The news can be overwhelming, and the frenetic pace of living in an era of endless connectivity can take its toll on us, both mentally and physically. We can sometimes even contribute to our own stress by not giving the body what it needs.

If all that wasn’t enough, there are also things we may not immediately identify as ‘stressors’, but that exert the same kind of pressure on our bodies – factors such as pollution and even UV exposure. It can be tough out there!

Our skin is unfortunately not immune to the effects of all these stressors. If anything, it can display the impact of stress more quickly and severely than the rest of our bodies. That’s why it’s vital that we give our skin the helping hand it needs to prevent and recover from stress damage.

But how, you ask? Well, with LUMI and PĒLL, of course!

Today, we’re going to explore how different stressors affect your skin, and how a combination of all-natural skincare and potent phytocannabinoids from your two favourite Estonian innovators can help your skin fight back and feel great.

Let’s jump in!

You Do It To Yourself – Internal Stressors

When most of us think of stress, our minds will jump to mental or emotional pressure. Factors such as anxiety, prolonged low mood, or external triggers such as work or family commitments can all put our mind and body under a significant load of stress.

Our bodies can deal with mild amounts of stress over short periods, but prolonged periods of stress have been shown to contribute to and sometimes trigger skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and acne, as well as speeding up the skin aging process.

This happens because stress triggers a ‘fight or flight’ response in our cells through cortisol production that leads to delayed wound healing (causing skin to regenerate imperfectly), reduced collagen production (vital for skin structure and elasticity) and oxidative stress.

It’s not just mental or emotional pressure that can force our skin into this fight or flight response, though! Putting our bodies through physical hardship, or depriving it of its needs, can also contribute greatly to premature aging. Factors such as extreme temperatures, lack of sleep, malnutrition, and infection can all take their toll on our skin on a cellular level, affecting the body in the same way as any other stressor.

Looking after your skin means looking after your whole body and its needs – it’s always a holistic endeavour!

You vs. The Universe – Environmental Stressors

As we mentioned earlier, stressors are not limited to merely internal factors. There are a host of environmental stressors that can impact your skin, whether by hastening the aging process or contributing to skin diseases. These environmental stressors can be far reaching. Tobacco smoke, radiation, pollution, and even some cosmetic products can all affect skin cells, triggering responses similar to that of internal stressors.

UV radiation contributes perhaps the largest, and certainly most consistent, stress upon our skin. Whilst many people think that the sun only causes damage if allowed to burn skin, the science is clear – photoaging (UV-caused skin aging) is a process that occurs whenever we are in direct sunlight. Photoaging is caused by UVA and UVB rays acting as stressors to skin cells and DNA, and can be responsible for wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and skin thickening (sometimes giving skin an almost leathery texture).

Repairing the Skin Damage Caused by Stress

Don’t worry! There’s no need to stress about stressors (if you’ll pardon the pun) because help is at hand. The most important, and perhaps most obvious, piece of advice we can give is to try and reduce the amount of stressors in your life, whether they be mental, physiological, or environmental. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is a well-known cliché for a reason!

Of course, it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, we simply cannot avoid stress and the impact it has on our skin. That’s where LUMI and PĒLL come in. Two of Estonia’s most innovative all-natural brands, the pair bring a wealth of skincare and cannabinoid solutions to help your body weather the storm of adult life.

LUMI have over a decade’s experience in mending and protecting skin from stressors both inside and out. Their creams are packed with ingredients such as fermented oat extract to restore and strengthen the skin barrier, whilst natural antioxidants from red algae and blackcurrant extract eliminate pesky free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.

Another favourite is bakuchiol (a plant-derived ingredient that has the efficacy of retinoids without much of their painful drawbacks), which has been shown to be clinically effective in rejuvenating skin by increasing collagen production. A breakdown of existing collagen and restriction of collagen production are common effects of photoaging. To round things off, included prebiotics and probiotics in many products help foster a healthy skin microbiome – vital in maintaining skin’s protective function and proper wound healing capabilities.

Cannabinoids represent an exciting new possibility when it comes to protecting and mending skin, and PĒLL are right at the forefront of things. There is an ever-growing body of research that suggests that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) – an internal network of signallers, signals, and receptors in the human body – plays a pivotal role in keeping our bodies healthy, including our skin.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to be effective in bringing skin back towards homeostasis (optimal biological functioning) via the ECS in cases of skin disease such as acne and dermatitis, as well as restoring the skin barrier and helping with pigmentation issues.

Similar results have also been found for cannabigerol (CBG), another prevalent cannabinoid. In addition to helping reduce skin aging and repair the skin’s protective barrier, both CBD and CBG are also effective methods of managing stress and anxiety, helping to reduce the amount of stressors that reach your skin in the first place!

Both CBD and CBG oils are available from PĒLL, in a variety of strengths to suit your individual needs. The most brilliant aspect of PĒLL’s oils is that, because of their food grade quality and high efficacy, they can be consumed internally or applied externally on skin. Try mixing a few drops of PĒLL oil into your LUMI creams to complement your cannabinoid regime and watch how quickly great results follow!

The First Steps to Better Skin

Ready to start fighting back against stress? Help your body de-stress and rejuvenate your skin with the power combo of LUMI and PĒLL. We recommend the 40 & ICONIC Set, which is packed full of natural ingredients to help you restore your skin barrier, produce more collagen, and protect your body from free radicals.

For PĒLL oils, we recommend applying a few drops of medium strength 30% full-spectrum CBD extract under the tongue each day (proper dosage may vary from person-to-person), as well as mixing some more of the oil into your LUMI skin products.

Cast off the shackles of stress, and embrace a happier, healthier you with LUMI and PĒLL!

 

References:
  1. Baswan, S. M., Klosner, A. E., Glynn, K., Rajgopal, A., Malik, K., Yim, S., & Stern, N. (2020). Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Skin Health and Disorders. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 13, 927–942. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S286411
  2. Battista, N., Di Tommaso, M., Bari, M., & Maccarrone, M. (2012). The endocannabinoid system: an overview. Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience, 6, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbeh.2012.00009
  3. Chen, Y., & Lyga, J. (2014). Brain-skin connection: stress, inflammation and skin aging. Inflammation & allergy drug targets, 13(3), 177–190. https://doi.org/10.2174/1871528113666140522104422
  4. Debacq-Chainiaux, F., Leduc, C., Verbeke, A., & Toussaint, O. (2012). UV, stress and aging. Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 236–240. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.23652
  5. De Tollenaere, M., Meunier, M., Scandolera, A., Sandre, J., Lambert, C., Chapuis, E., Auriol, D., & Reynaud, R. (2020). Well-aging: A new strategy for skin homeostasis under multi-stressed conditions. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 19(2), 444–455. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13047
  6. Dhaliwal, S., Rybak, I., Ellis, S. R., Notay, M., Trivedi, M., Burney, W., Vaughn, A. R., Nguyen, M., Reiter, P., Bosanac, S., Yan, H., Foolad, N., & Sivamani, R. K. (2019). Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. The British journal of dermatology, 180(2), 289–296. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.16918
  7. Graubard, R., Perez-Sanchez, A., & Katta, R. (2021). Stress and Skin: An Overview of Mind Body Therapies as a Treatment Strategy in Dermatology. Dermatology practical & conceptual, 11(4), e2021091. https://doi.org/10.5826/dpc.1104a91
  8. Kahan, V., Andersen, M. L., Tomimori, J., & Tufik, S. (2010). Can poor sleep affect skin integrity?. Medical hypotheses, 75(6), 535–537. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2010.07.018
  9. Pandel, R., Poljšak, B., Godic, A., & Dahmane, R. (2013). Skin photoaging and the role of antioxidants in its prevention. ISRN dermatology, 2013, 930164. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/930164
  10. Parrado, C., Mercado-Saenz, S., Perez-Davo, A., Gilaberte, Y., Gonzalez, S., & Juarranz, A. (2019). Environmental Stressors on Skin Aging. Mechanistic Insights. Frontiers in pharmacology, 10, 759. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2019.00759
  11. Perez, E., Fernandez, J. R., Fitzgerald, C., Rouzard, K., Tamura, M., & Savile, C. (2022). In Vitro and Clinical Evaluation of Cannabigerol (CBG) Produced via Yeast Biosynthesis: A Cannabinoid with a Broad Range of Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Health-Boosting Properties. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 27(2), 491. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27020491
  12. Poljšak, B., & Milisav, I. (2012). Clinical implications of cellular stress responses. Bosnian journal of basic medical sciences, 12(2), 122–126. https://doi.org/10.17305/bjbms.2012.2510
  13. Tóth, K. F., Ádám, D., Bíró, T., & Oláh, A. (2019). Cannabinoid Signaling in the Skin: Therapeutic Potential of the “C(ut)annabinoid” System. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 24(5), 918. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24050918
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The Microbiome – Your Skin’s Greatest Ally!

Here at LUMI, we can’t go five minutes without mentioning the skin’s microbiome. We might talk about it more than any other topic, in fact! The reason we’re so obsessed is simple – maintaining a healthy microbiome is the single best thing you can do for your skin. But what is the skin microbiome, we hear you ask, and why is it so important? Well, let’s find out by diving into all things microbiological!

What Is The Skin Microbiome?

Our skin is home to millions of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. We call this tiny but important community of life the microbiome of the skin. These microscopic lifeforms work with the human body and are integral to maintaining healthy skin.

The microbiome is our first line of defence against pathogens and other threats that might endanger our skin or the rest of our body. The layer of microbiota on the skin’s surface forms a physical barrier that prevents unwelcome microbes and substances from reaching the skin itself. When this barrier is broken or is not at its full protective capacity (because our microbiome is out-of-shape), we are more vulnerable to infection and skin degradation from environmental pollutants.

The benefits of the microbiome do not stop there, though! The microbiota on the surface of human skin helps retain moisture, minimise oxidative damage, and help to protect skin from UV radiation. Our immune systems actually communicate with bacteria on our skin’s surface and are used by the body to modulate a range of responses. The microbiome is even involved in repairing damaged skin and healing wounds!

It was discovered at the turn of the 21st century that some bacteria present within the human skin microbiome produce collagen-like proteins that help with skin maintenance. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is vital for skin structure, elasticity, and signaling. Studies have shown that when the skin microbiome is damaged or in a state of serious imbalance (known as dysbiosis), levels of collagen production decrease, which can lead to premature aging and other skin health issues.

The impact of skin dysbiosis is not limited just to collagen production. A damaged or unbalanced microbiome has been shown to affect long-term skin health, as well as increasing the prevalence of diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, and acne. Research also suggests that the process of skin aging is in part associated with changes in the skin microbiome. Clearly, considering the intertwined nature of microbiome health and diversity with our own wellbeing, the skin’s microbiota cannot be ignored!

Photo: Caroline Sada

How Can I Help My Skin’s Microbiome?

With the microbiome being so essential to skin health, we all face an essential question – how can I maintain a happy, healthy, and diverse microbiome?

The first step, as with everything related to health, is to ensure your diet is varied and nutritious. By eating well, you give your body the resources it needs to properly control itself and make the surface of your skin the perfect environment for a thriving microbiome. Vegetables in particular are vital for skin health, whilst fermented foods such as kefir and sauerkraut help promote the health of microbiota both in the gut and on the surface of the skin.

For more targeted microbiome assistance, consider introducing probiotics and prebiotics to your skin. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are introduced to a microbiome to help repopulate or rebalance the microbial community. Prebiotics are selectively fermented ingredients designed to provide nutrition to and promote the growth of desirable microorganisms. Probiotics and prebiotics taken orally can improve the health of the gut microbiome (and through it, the rest of the body), whilst topically applied prebiotics and probiotics can greatly aid the skin’s microbiome.

All of LUMI’s products are designed with maintaining a healthy skin microbiome in mind. Our three guiding principles are embracing natural ingredients, cutting-edge science, and, most of all, balance. Never is this more important than when considering the needs of the billions of microbiota that call our bodies home.

You can see the results of this thinking in the decisions we make during production. Our cleansers never contain any surfactants or foaming agents, as these have been shown to disrupt the skin barrier and microbiome. In a similar vein, none of our products will ever contain added fragrances or preservatives – both can disrupt your microbiome and create, rather than solve, skin problems. We make liberal use of the polysaccharide hyaluronic acid in lots of LUMI products, which has been shown by several research studies to be the optimal prebiotic for restoring microbiome balance.

We offer a range of products crafted especially to restore and maintain your skin microbiome. There are far too many to list here, but a few highlights that we think you’ll love are the Atopic Smoothie Set, the NAKED Hyaluronic Acid Multiserum, and the 40 & ICONIC Set, all of which contain prebiotics and other helpful ingredients that are perfect for getting your microbiome back to its best!

Ready to take the first steps towards a happier, healthier microbiome? Talk to one of our LUMI skin experts today and find the products most suited to your individual needs – your skin will thank you!

 

References:
  1. Al-Ghazzewi, F. H., & Tester, R. F. (2014). Impact of prebiotics and probiotics on skin health. Beneficial microbes, 5(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.3920/BM2013.0040
  2. Boxberger, M., Cenizo, V., Cassir, N., et al., (2021). Challenges in exploring and manipulating the human skin microbiome. Microbiome, 9, 125. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40168-021-01062-5
  3. Byrd, A. L., Belkaid, Y., & Segre, J. A. (2018). The human skin microbiome. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 16(3), 143–155. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro.2017.157
  4. Habeebuddin, M., Karnati, R. K., Shiroorkar, P. N., Nagaraja, S., Asdaq, S. M. B., Khalid Anwer, M., & Fattepur, S. (2022). Topical Probiotics: More Than a Skin Deep. Pharmaceutics, 14(3), 557. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14030557
  5. Ratanapokasatit, Y., Laisuan, W., Rattananukrom, T., Petchlorlian, A., Thaipisuttikul, I., & Sompornrattanaphan, M. (2022). How Microbiomes Affect Skin Aging: The Updated Evidence and Current Perspectives. Life (Basel, Switzerland), 12(7), 936. https://doi.org/10.3390/life12070936
  6. Rozas, M., Hart de Ruijter, A., Fabrega, M. J., Zorgani, A., Guell, M., Paetzold, B., & Brillet, F. (2021). From Dysbiosis to Healthy Skin: Major Contributions of Cutibacterium acnes to Skin Homeostasis. Microorganisms, 9(3), 628. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms9030628
  7. Russo, E., Di Gloria, L., Cerboneschi, M., Smeazzetto, S., Baruzzi, G. P., Romano, F., Ramazzotti, M., & Amedei, A. (2023). Facial Skin Microbiome: Aging-Related Changes and Exploratory Functional Associations with Host Genetic Factors, a Pilot Study. Biomedicines, 11(3), 684. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11030684
  8. Yu, Z., An, B., Ramshaw, J. A., & Brodsky, B. (2014). Bacterial collagen-like proteins that form triple-helical structures. Journal of structural biology, 186(3), 451–461. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsb.2014.01.003
  9. Zorgani, A., Beckermann, L., Brillet, F., Yvon, P. (2023). Cutibacterium acnes: paradigm shift for skin health from pathogens to assets in healthy aging and beyond. HPC Today, 18(2), 6-9. https://www.teknoscienze.com/tks_article/cutibacterium-acnes-paradigm-shift-for-skin-health-from-pathogens-to-assets-in-healthy-aging-and-beyond/