Category: ACNE

Posted on by

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
Posted on by

Kelli’s #skintakeover: “All you need for beautiful skin is the sun and LUMI”

14.03.2023

“My name is Kelli, and I’m a 19-year-old high school student. From a young age, I’ve understood the importance of using high-quality and natural products at home. I’ve been familiar with LUMI for some time now, and one of my favorite face care products is their AHA-BHA cleansing milk. Unfortunately, I’ve struggled with various skin problems for quite a while. When I was younger, I had eczema under my nose, and now I constantly deal with pimples and the resulting scars. In addition, I have very dry skin overall, and I’m constantly searching for a new and better solution to keep it moisturized. I really hope to finally achieve healthy skin, and I’m relying on your help.”.

26.06.2023

Since I was a child, my skin has been plagued by various problems – dry patches, pimples, heavy sebum production, uneven skin tone. I have been to a dermatologist (used an ointment that is so strong that it even took the color off the towel used to dry it after washing) and tried to improve the situation myself, testing all kinds of products from different brands. The initial wow effect has faded pretty quickly for all of them. LUMI facial care products have given me the best results so far, and the spring sun has also played its part.

My first experience with LUMI happened at an Estonian fair, where I encountered a woman selling her own handmade cosmetics. Intrigued, I asked her for a recommendation, expressing my desire for products that could give me the same beautiful skin she had. Surprisingly, she confessed that she actually uses LUMI herself. Naturally, I was curious to find out more about LUMI. That’s when I had the chance to try the LUMI Tundra series products, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed. So when the opportunity arose to embark on a 4-week journey with LUMI, I didn’t hesitate for a moment.

My daily skincare routine with LUMI products is refreshingly simple, which is a major plus. In the morning, I start by washing my face with cold water and then gently pat it dry. Next, I apply the Selgus meadowsweet hydrosol, followed by the Sunberry day serum. Throughout the day, I keep my lips moisturized with the CBD+ lip balm, nourish my body with the BIO-KLINIK body cream, and make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

In the evening, I begin by thoroughly cleansing my face using the AHA-BHA cleansing milk. I let it sit on my damp face for a while before rinsing. Then, I follow up with the Selgus meadowsweet hydrosol once again. For any problematic areas, I use the Pimple Stopper treatment, and I finish off by applying the BIO-KLINIK face cream to my entire face. Occasionally, I swap out the creams for the HALO moisturizing mask, leaving it on overnight for added hydration.

Additionally, for a deeper exfoliation, I sometimes incorporate a 15% AHA acid peel into my routine.

Initially, I experienced some small bumps on my forehead when I started this routine. However, they disappeared quite quickly. From that point on, everything started to improve, and I no longer have to deal with excessively shiny skin halfway through the day. Dry patches are now a thing of the past as well. What’s particularly great is that my skin doesn’t feel dry or uncomfortable after using the cleansing milk. I’ve also noticed a reduction in the number of pimples, and my old scars have begun to heal. It’s truly a positive transformation for my skin.

Most importantly, throughout this journey, using these products has been an absolute pleasure. Taking care of my skin has become an enjoyable experience because I know that these products are crafted with love, with a deep understanding of what the skin truly needs.

Posted on by

Mirjam’s Skin Story

“I have always had dry and sensitive skin, along with pigmentation spots and milia. Being nearly 40 years old means that wrinkles, fine lines, and skin flaccidity are more prominent. In other words, I have high expectations for skincare products.

For several years, I used a relatively expensive and highly praised brand’s products. While it did improve my skin issues, they never completely disappeared. Moreover, I had to visit the beautician frequently to prevent my skin from breaking out, roughly every 2-3 months, which became quite costly.

With cautiousness and some reservations, I decided to give the LUMI brand a try. Could all these promises actually be true?! Now, after having used LUMI products for over 2 months, I can confidently say that I will continue using them because my skin has never been in such great condition! And I’m not exaggerating! No more pimples, no milia, and my pigmentation spots have significantly lightened. After washing my face, my skin feels soft and no longer tight like before. When I wake up in the morning, my skin is no longer greasy, and here’s the best part – I have stopped using foundation altogether because I no longer need it. My skin tone is even, and my skin looks healthy.

Don’t panic if you initially face some challenges or notice a temporary decline in your skin’s condition. The ultimate results will be worth it, 100%!”.



Posted on by

ACNE SKINCARE INGREDIENTS TO AVOID!

Acne is a complex condition. Often, it can seem a chronic affliction that simply nothing can shift! For so many of us who were promised that acne was simply a part of growing up, it can be disheartening to suffer on with symptoms well into our 30s and even beyond.

It’s natural, then, that searching for acne skincare products can become something of an obsession. Every new product and slogan promises a solution, and everything seems worth a try. Unfortunately, however, advertising slogans cannot be trusted, and it’s important to delve into the composition of products and understand what effect they might have on your skin. You may be doing more harm than good!

Today, we give an overview of the most common acne skincare ingredients that you should avoid, as well as giving you some perfect recommendations for skin-healthy alternatives!

Acne sufferers should be sure to exclude these 5 things from their care routines:

1. Products containing salicylic acid.

One of the most common recommendations for acne-prone skin is to use products containing salicylic acid. However, the use of synthetic salicylic acid in certain cosmetic products has largely been banned due to its endocrine-disrupting effects. Synthetic salicylic acid is still allowed to be used in very small amounts as a preservative in some products, though it is prohibited completely in products intended for children under 3. The allowed percentage of salicylic acid is higher in washable products. You can find salicylic acid in a product’s International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient (INCI) list under its common name Salicylic Acid.

Try instead: LUMI’s Tundra line, which contains willow bark extract, a natural alternative to synthetic salicylic acid that does not have the same harmful effects. Its INCI name is Salix Nigra Bark Extract. It is a strong antioxidant and has skin-soothing, sebum-reducing and mattifying properties.

2. SLS washing gels and excessive face cleansing.

We have spoken about this many times before, but it’s such an important point that it always bears repeating – foaming face washes and over-cleansing the skin should be left in the past! Excessive cleansing makes skin more sensitive and causes increased sebum production. 

Avoid products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in their INCI lists. SLS has been shown to lead to extreme drying of skin and increased pore clogging over time. Whilst removing makeup, dirt, and sebum from the surface of the skin, SLS also washes away the corneocytes between cells, which act in a similar way to cement between bricks. Just like a brick wall with no cement, skin without corneocytes loses much of its rigidity and protective capacity. In general, skin (especially delicate facial skin) does not want to come into contact with any surfactants, which makes it extremely difficult to find a cleansing product on the market today that is actually good for the skin. We have been living in an era of skin over-purification for decades!

Try instead: LUMI Cleansing Milk can be used as a cleansing foam, either during a shower or as part of a morning/evening routine. Oil-based cleansing milks are perfect for removing makeup and dirt from the face whilst also maintaining the natural balance and protective qualities of skin. If you’re still unconvinced, try LUMI cleansing milks for a month and see what your skin says! You will no doubt find yourself left with un-reddened, balanced skin that has found its sense of comfort once more!

3. Fragrances

3000 different substances can be hidden behind the INCI name ‘Fragrance’. You can therefore never be sure which of these substances you are putting on your skin. Both synthetic and natural fragrances increase the risk of allergic reactions to products. Additionally, fragrances are often labelled with the names ‘Aroma’ or ‘Parfum’, the most common components of which include linalool, limonene, farnesol, and geranium. In the best case scenario, you may get away with irritation from these substances; in the worst case, they may disrupt the proper functioning of your endocrine system. When applying essential oils such as these to the skin, one must also be aware of their interaction with the sun. Occasionally, phototoxic reactions may occur.
Fragrances can also disrupt the skin’s microbiome, which can be particularly unhelpful for those already suffering with acne. A balanced microbiome can better limit the reproduction of bad bacteria and thus significantly ease acne symptoms.

Try instead: LUMI creams that never contain added fragrances. Our creams have a natural scent that you can trust. Synthetic fragrances can linger in products for up to 5 years, and can be used to mask other ingredients and confuse the user into believing things are fresher and healthier than they are. LUMI’s natural creams are quite the opposite – they smell fresh because they are fresh! You can read more about the natural scents of LUMI products here.

4. Silicones.

Silicones are not inherently pore-clogging, but the occlusive layer they create locks acne-causing sebum and acne-promoting bacteria in-between the silicone and the skin, which can then increase the frequency of breakouts and pore clogging. Additionally, silicones do not completely wash off the skin because they are hydrophobic compounds.

Try instead: Let your skin breathe freely by choosing LUMI’s silicone-free creams and serums! By doing so, you can be sure that products’ active substances are properly absorbed by the skin and do not get trapped on top of the occlusive layer silicones create.

5. Retinol.

Retinol, sometimes seen under the INCI name Retinyl Palmitate/Retinol, is an extremely popular active ingredient in both anti-ageing and anti-acne skincare products. Despite having some positive effects, it should be noted that retinol causes heightened skin sensitivity, making skin hypersensitive to UV radiation. If UV radiation is the fastest ageing factor for human skin, how can a substance that makes us extra-vulnerable to it keep us young? Sensitive skin also tends to produce more oil, redden more, and become inflamed more easily – all of which can exacerbate the issues of acne-prone skin.

Try instead: LUMI Pimple Stopper and Iconic Well-ageing treatment both use bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol that has a similar effect whilst being non-irritating to skin and photostable (can be used during the day, unlike retinol). Bakuchiol helps correct hyperkeratinisation and bacterial growth, whilst also maintaining the lipid balance of skin. It also protects against oxidative stress and prevents the main causes of acne. Bakuchiol, like retinol, also has a strong anti-ageing effect, reducing wrinkles and evening out skin tone, whilst also improving skin elasticity. It’s also suitable for sensitive skin without causing irritation.

In addition to acute active substances, LUMI products contain supporting active substances which intensify and facilitate the absorption and functioning of other active substances.

Of course, with acne, there are a multitude of factors that influence the course and severity of the disease, and we always recommend a holistic and well-researched strategy to treating acne. In this post, we have only had chance to touch on a few specific substances that can actively make your acne situation worse. Avoid them, however, and you’ve already taken a big step towards healing your skin and solving your acne woes!

Posted on by — Leave a comment

HELENA’S SKIN STORY

“My skin story began in my adolescent years, when, like many other teenagers, my face began to suffer from milia and acne. Looking back on that time now, I know I could have changed my diet, skincare routine, and lifestyle as a whole. Unfortunately, I was an impossible young woman who didn’t take care of her health for years.”

Posted on by

FREE FROM HORMONAL ACNE

“I am sending you a LUMI success story! 😊 We started our LUMI journey on 17th May and the last photos were taken on 14th August. My 15-year-old son was in great trouble with hormonal acne, which had resulted in inflamed and scarred areas on his forehead and temples. On 17th May, he started daily skincare using the LUMI Tundra series – using the cleansing milk, tonic and cream.”

“He missed skin cleansing on some days, but in general he tried to stick to the routine as best he could and treated the skin twice a day. At first, the smell of the products seemed strange, but in time, the yarrow came to feel very pleasant and fresh. Once a week, I performed a classic facial treatment on him with the LUMI Tundra series. In addition, I exfoliated his face with a mixture of honey and ground oatmeal, and I used a mixture of LUMI’s CBD+ Extra Strong Repair Salve and Bio-Klinik Restorative Moisturiser as a mask. I avoided mechanical cleaning, because I knew Erik would not let me near him again if I used a pore spoon on him! 😅”

“The results could already be seen by 20th June. The inflammation had receded, the scars healed, and the microflora of Erik’s skin restored. I am convinced that this is thanks in part to the CBD+ ointment, because after using it, the skin calmed down significantly. It was interesting to see the skin begin to ‘work’ by itself, and that after a while, clogged pores did not need to be treated because the whiteheads were opening by themselves.”

“You could especially see this effect when his skin warmed up (after exercise or showering). In July, Erik was in a sports camp for a week, where skincare became a secondary concern, but this did not seem to cause any major setbacks for him. The 14th August photographs were taken before a skin treatment. We completely believe in LUMI products now and will continue using them going forwards!

“Erik takes much better care of his skin now than before, because he has realised that it actually takes fairly little effort to keep problem skin under control. And you no longer have to grow a fringe or wear a hat to hide your forehead! Problematic skin on your face can be a great source of stress and insecurity for anyone, but especially a teenager. I am so happy to be able to recommend natural Estonian products that really work!” – Kristel, Erik’s Mother #LUMIEXPERIENCE

Posted on by

ZINC – YOUR SKIN’S 24-HOUR REPAIR TECHNICIAN

Our bodies are constantly sending us signals. You might ignore these warnings, passing them off as your own individual quirks. But if you start to research these symptoms, which by themselves seem so disparate, you may find that all signs lead to a deficiency in one specific substance – zinc!

If you have noticed tiny white spots on your nails, excessive hair loss, constant diarrhoea, wounds that heal slowly, eyes that do not adapt to darkness, and skin constantly irritated by reddened patches of dermatitis or acne, then your body may be signalling to you that you have a zinc deficiency.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 30% of the world’s population is zinc deficient.

The most common cause of zinc deficiency is chemical farming, which depletes the natural zinc content of crops, and subsequently the food we eat. Zinc deficiencies can also be caused by the use of certain medications, malabsorption (a digestive disorder that prevents the absorption of nutrients), and an imbalanced diet. Since excess zinc is not stored in our body, it is important to regularly consume foods that are high in zinc or take zinc supplements.

Zinc is the most abundant intracellular metal in the body after iron. It is found everywhere in the body, with 85% stored in muscles and bones, 11% in the skin and liver, and the rest in other bodily tissues.

 

Our greatest physiological need for zinc occurs as we go through puberty, coinciding with a period of rapid bone growth. Newborn infants, children, pregnant and lactating women, and the elderly also need more zinc. Regular alcohol drinkers, vegans, and those suffering from leaky gut syndrome all have a heightened risk of having a zinc deficiency.

Symptoms of a zinc deficiency may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Irritability
  • General hair loss
  • Rough and dry skin
  • Slow wound healing
  • Poor sense of taste and smell
  • Diarrhoea and nausea

Zinc rich foods include:

  • Red meat and poultry.
  • Beans, nuts, and whole grains.
  • Dairy products such as yoghurt, milk and cheese.
  • Seafood such as crab, lobster and oysters – in fact, oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food!

Zinc absorption occurs in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine, connected to the stomach). Citric acid increases zinc absorption, whilst iron, fibre and phytic acid have the opposite effect.

Zinc and skin

The skin is our largest organ and has a huge physiological need for nutrients. Our bodies constantly repair and renew skin, and it is vital to understand the importance of nutrition when it comes to overall skin health. If you want healthy skin, you must nourish and protect it – from outside and in!

Zinc is an important trace element that is necessary for skin to function normally. It is vital for cell renewal, collagen formation, and wound and tissue repair. Zinc is also an important antioxidant.

Even a mild zinc deficiency can impair collagen production, fatty acid metabolism (including Omega-3), and wound healing.

 

Zinc is necessary for the formation of keratin and the skin’s structural protein, collagen. Collagen in the skin is produced by zinc-dependent enzymes. Zinc is not only vital for enzymes producing skin collagen types 1 and 3, but also for collagen cross-linking, which gives the protein strength and stability.

Studies have shown that a decrease in zinc leads directly to a decrease in our bodies’ total collagen levels. Our skin contains a high content of zinc – almost 5% – which is mainly located in the epidermis. Because of this, even a slight zinc deficiency can quickly manifest itself with noticeable symptoms such as skin roughness and slow wound healing. Zinc is our skin’s 24-hour repair technician.

Zinc deficiency and skin problems

Zinc is recommended as a dietary supplement for acne, rosacea and dermatitis. This is because it reduces keratinocyte activity and our inflammatory response to bacteria, as well as strengthening immunity.

Given that the overuse of antibiotics is considered by many to be a global health emergency, the role zinc can play in addressing skincare problems should not be ignored. Studies on the combined use of zinc and vitamin B3 (nicotinamide) to treat inflammatory skin problems such as acne are particularly promising. The treatment has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and a bacteriostatic effect against propionibacterium acnes, as well as reducing excessive sebum secretion.

Zinc and hormones

Zinc plays an important role in the endocrine system, supporting thyroid hormones and helping the body cope better with reactions to stress. Zinc regulates menstrual cycles in women, promotes ovulation, and can reduce premenstrual discomfort. It can also help to balance the production of sex hormones, including testosterone and prolactin. Women with polycystic ovaries (and associated hair loss), acne, or hirsutism are frequently found to be zinc deficient and can benefit from zinc supplementation.

Zinc and the human papillomavirus (HPV)

Given zinc’s abilities to facilitate immune system, tissue and wound healing, the potential effects of zinc on post-papillomavirus healing have also been studied. In April 2022, an article published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention detailed a recent study where 80 women with a positive HPV PAP test and abnormal changes in cervix cells (ASCUS or LISL) were given zinc supplements for 3 months. The results of the study showed that oral zinc consumption accelerates the disappearance of the HPV virus and the healing of existing cervical lesions.

Zinc and children

A zinc deficiency can occur even in an adult with a varied diet, so it should come as no surprise to learn that children, particularly those with selective eating habits, can be susceptible to zinc deficiencies. Zinc helps children’s immune system better cope with frequent viral diseases, supports age-appropriate growth, and helps with cognitive development. Zinc can also help in combating common childhood skin problems.

The most common signs of zinc deficiency in children are:

  • Low-functioning immune system and frequent upper respiratory tract infections
  • Slow growth rate
  • Slow cognitive development
  • Poor appetite
  • Diarrhoea
  • Difficulty concentrating or being easily distracted
  • Skin issues and slow wound healing

An individual’s daily requirement of zinc will depend on their age and body condition. It is recommended to consult your family doctor before administering food supplements to children. LUMITEEK offers zinc in the form of zinc diglycinate, which has been shown to have excellent absorption capacity. The daily dose contains 25mg of zinc. Take 1 capsule a day after a meal, as a course of 3-6 months (as needed).

Photos: Vlad Matsnev
Bibliography
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.
Gupta, M., Mahajan, V. K., Mehta, K. S., & Chauhan, P. S. (2014). Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatology research and practice, 2014, 709152.
Ecosh.ee, What causes zinc deficiency in the body?
Ayatollahi, H., Rajabi, E., Yekta, Z., & Jalali, Z. (2022). Efficacy of Oral Zinc Sulfate Supplementation on Clearance of Cervical Human Papillomavirus (HPV); A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP, 23(4), 1285–1290.
Posted on by — Leave a comment

ACNE MYTHS

MYTH: Skin with acne and pimples does not need moisturising. Vegetable oils cause comedones

REALITY: Increased sebum production is a prerequisite for acne. Keeping your skin moisturised is very important because dry skin produces more sebum. According to scientific studies, dry skin is more sensitive to allergens, and lack of hydration can cause different skin problems. We use cold-pressed hemp oil in our products – it is an excellent moisturiser for problematic skin and does not clog pores. Studies show that linoleic acid in hemp oil has a role in addressing the causes of acne.

TIP! Apply AHA-BHA moisturising cream after using Yarrow mist with salicylic acid. If your skin feels “heavy” after using the product, try applying less next time. Or let it absorb for a few minutes before using Yarrow mist again.

MYTH: Dirty skin causes acne

REALITY: Research shows that acne is not caused by unclean skin. The process of developing symptoms is much more complicated and it is necessary to use gentle cleansers twice a day to prevent acne. Use mildly exfoliating and anti-inflammatory products that decrease sebum production and have a slightly acidic pH (not more than 5.5). Forget grainy face scrubs and excessive washing – these can cause skin barrier disorders and dehydration.

TIP! Clean your skin with Tundra AHA-BHA cleansing milk and finish with Yarrow mist with salicylic acid. Use them twice a day. Do not forget facial water – it removes impurities and maintains pH balance. Tundra AHA-BHA cleansing milk can be used as a facial mask for a few minutes. Don’t be alarmed – mild and short-term redness is a normal reaction. Listen to your skin – you can reduce the duration, frequency, and amount of the product if you are worried about redness. 

Photographer: Caroline Sada