Category: SKIN CARE ADVICE

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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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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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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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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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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/
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Adapt your skincare routine to your monthly cycle!

The menstrual cycle has a significant influence on women, impacting various aspects of our lives, from our appetites and moods to even changes in our facial skin.

Synchronizing your skincare routine with your monthly cycle provides an opportunity to prevent many skin problems, especially hormonal acne.

We are all unique and experience the changes that come with the cycle differently. Understanding what happens to our bodies and skin during this provides us with the opportunity to address various issues at the right time.

How to build a skincare routine that fulfills the needs of your skin throughout the cycle?

The good news is that you don’t have to rush out to buy new products immediately. Thanks to the versatility of LUMI products, they can be mixed together or blended into “smoothies.” This allows you to adjust your current facial care routine to cater to your skin’s requirements during each stage of the cycle.

Another reason to love LUMI smoothies and get the most out of them! 🤍

The recipe for adjusting smoothies is easy: simply mix LUMI tonics and serums into your favorite cream to make them either thinner or thicker as needed. This process guarantees that your skincare product maintains the desired texture throughout the whole cycle.

👉🏻In this blog post, we will discuss how you might feel during different phases of your cycle and how your skin may appear during these phases. We’ll share ideas on which products you could choose for your smoothies, allowing you to create a skincare routine that suits your preferences while considering the unique aspects of your cycle. Additionally, we’ll help you discover the ideal time to schedule a visit to an esthetician!

You can improve your skin care routine by aligning it with your monthly cycle, making it easier to address your skin concerns.

Your monthly cycle is mainly influenced by three sex hormones:

  • estrogen,
  • progesterone,
  • testosterone.

These hormones fluctuate throughout your cycle, leading to changes in both your well-being and your skin.

👉🏻To better understand your current cycle phase, you can use smartphone apps or a smartwatch, keep a closer look on your calendar and pay closer attention to how you’re feeling.

Menstruation (days 1-6).

Well-being: Your energy levels are low, and you might be experiencing tiredness. You may find yourself preferring solitude to socializing. Take a moment to tune into your body. Allow yourself time to rest and try to remember that it’s not laziness – be kind to yourself.

Skin: It may be more sensitive than usual, so it’s advisable to avoid any painful procedures, such as mechanical cleaning (which might prove challenging for the esthetician to work on), intense peeling, eyebrow plucking, or waxing. Your skin might also feel drier and more irritated, in which case, it will benefit from extra hydration provided by a richer cream or an oil-based serum. When it comes to cleansing, opt for gentle products. Cleanse your skin once a day in the evening.

The main keywords for skincare are moisturizing and nourishing.

TIP: Enhance your routine with LUMI’s oil serums. Choose the one that suits your skin type, and either mix it into your favorite LUMI cream or apply it directly onto your skin.

  1. If you have red or acne-prone skin, the ideal choice is Pimple Stopper. For sensitive skin, it’s better to opt for CBD+ Extra Strong Repair Salve.
  2. If you’re looking to tighten or even out your skin tone, go for the Superbloom Vitamin C Night Serum.
  3. Sunberry’s golden tone and protective formula are the ideal choice for all skin types and conditions.
  4. Because of its rich composition and soothing ingredients, ICONIC overnight peptide treatment is the perfect choice for alleviating dry, irritated, and tense skin during your menstrual week.

Follicular phase (days 6-12).

Well-being: You are filled with increased energy and motivation. Your optimism, communication skills, and cognitive abilities are at their highest. This is also your skin’s golden week as you feel beautiful and radiate in a unique way.

Skin: This is the ideal moment to rejuvenate, regenerate, and pamper your skin. New skin cells are actively developing, making it the perfect opportunity to enhance the skin’s renewal process. Additionally, your pain sensitivity is lower during this period, making it the perfect time to schedule a visit to an esthetician or experiment with new skincare products. Revel in the radiant glow of your skin at its peak!

Enjoy your skins glow!

The main keywords for skincare are stimulating the renewal processes

TIP: Don’t hold back on the usage of skincare products and provide your skin with an extensive pampering session.

  1. Enhance the skin renewal process with a 15-20 minute procedure using a 15% AHA Acid Peel.
  2. Afterward, pamper your skin with Prebiotic HALO Moisturizing Mask.
  3. During this week, consider incorporating Pimple Stopper and Superbloom Vitamin C Night Serum into your skincare routine for their skin cell renewal benefits.

Ovulation (days 13-16).

Well-being: You are energetic and active, yet also sensitive and impulsive. Your libido is higher than usual. Some women may experience mild lower abdominal discomfort during this phase and become more moody.

Skin: Skin becomes oilier as sebum secretion increases, raising the risk of pimples and pustules. This is the time when you can take steps to prevent pimples from appearing before your menstrual cycle begins.

The main keywords for skincare are prevention and cleansing.

TIP:It’s the ideal time to use lightweight makeup and creams! When preparing smoothies, reduce the amount of oil serums and opt for water-based products. Consider adding a tonic to your cream as well. (Superbloom toning mist, Bio-klinik moisture lock toner) or a water based serum like Nudist or Naked hyaluronic acid multiserum.

  1. Opt for products that regulate sebum secretion and have a lightweight consistency. These include the Tundra AHA-BHA Moisturizing Cream, Iconic Well-Aging Treatment, Naked Hyaluronic Acid Multiserum, and Superbloom toning mist.
  2. It’s a good time to either use a 15% AHA acid peel or leave the Tundra or Moisturizing Cleansing Milk on for a longer duration, up to 5 minutes.
  3. When wanting to achieve a tan and glowy look, opt for the No Make-Up Day kit, featuring the clay-based Senses that absorbs excess oil and keeps your skin clean.

Luteal phase (days 17-28).

Well-being: A time when you might begin to experience a decrease in your energy levels, become moodier, and become less inclined to socialize. You may also start craving sweeter and fattier foods. During this phase, your body requires an adequate amount of sleep and time for recovery.

Skin: Just as you become more sensitive and irritable, your skin follows suit. It tends to get oilier and is prone to clogging. You might notice an increase in black and whiteheads. Additionally, during this period, your body can produce more melanin, making freckles and pigment spots more likely to appear than usual. Sensitivity and inflammation are also more prevalent during this time.

The main keywords for skincare are keeping inflammation and sebum secretion under control.

TIP: Take extra care of your skin while being in the sun. Try to avoid skin irritation.

  1. During this week your best friend is the Naked hyaluronic acid multiserum. It helps prevent premenstrual acne, reduces sebum production, has anti-inflammatory properties, prevents the formation of new pigment spots, and diminishes the darkness of existing pigment spots.
  2. When making smoothies, opt for toners and water-based serums. It’s a good time to focus more on cleansing.
  3. Soothe your skin by using the HALO moisture mask.

Irregular menstrual cycle

A 2023 study revealed that an irregular menstrual cycle can harm both the skin’s physiological properties and its microbiota.

Women with irregular menstrual cycles may want to consider paying more attention to moisturizing, protecting, and soothing their skin.

TIP: The Bio-Klinik restorative moisturizer offers essential hydration, balance, protection, and soothing for the skin. Whether you’re dealing with eczema or hormonal acne, Bio-Klinik serves as an excellent solution for both concerns. When combined with Naked hyaluronic acid multiserum, the cream’s anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects are amplified. Additionally, the probiotics in the cream aid in restoring changes in the skin’s microbiome.

Recipe for smoothies

The main components of a smoothie should be:

  1. a water-based product (tonic, hydrosol, hyaluronic acid serum)
  2. a cream suitable for the skin’s condition.
  3. an oil serum

To create your own unique smoothie recipe, don’t hesitate to reach out to our consultant! You can discover our favorite smoothie recipes in the LUMI sets category.

Many smartphone apps, such as the Flo app, can assist you in tracking your menstrual cycle.

Give it a try and elevate your skincare routine to a more feminine and personalized level!

Used literature:
1. Laiji, M., Jiang, H., Han, T. jt (2023) The menstrual cycle regularity and skin: irregular menstrual cycle affects skin physiological properties and skin bacterial microbiome in urban Chinese women. BMC Womens Health. BMC Womens Health. 23(1):292.

 

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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!

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ATOPIC DERMATITIS IN CHILDREN

Helen Hirv is one of the founders of Estonia’s premier natural cosmetics brand, LUMI. Helen came to skincare after her child was struggling with atopic dermatitis.

What to look for in skincare?

Helen: “Always keep in mind the principle of less is more. The product must be pure in its composition, and usually just one product is enough – either a bath oil or a base cream. The worst irritants and allergens are fragrances and preservatives. I have never washed a small baby with a body wash or liquid soap – most of these products only serve to dry the skin out and destroy the child’s skin’s protective layer. The moisturising oil or base cream must be properly absorbed into the skin – do not rush to clothe your child after application.

La-Laa Caressing Baby Oil softens, soothes and is fragrance free; composed of food-grade quality ingredients with organic certification.

 

“In the case of milder eczema, moisturising with vegetable oils is often enough – there is no need for more complex formulations. It is important to monitor your child and assess how severe the eczema is. There is a big difference in the types of intervention necessary for skin that is simply rough or is fully inflamed, for example. From my experiences with my own two children, slight roughness or redness of the skin can often be effectively treated with basic skincare. However, as with any condition, dermatitis treatment requires us to consider and address the needs of the whole body, not just an affected area.”

Is Skincare Alone Enough?

“Skincare is an important part of treating dermatitis, but is essentially only dealing with the consequences of the condition. It’s vital to find out the circumstances that trigger dermatitis symptoms. In general, in summer, dermatitis is mostly alleviated or disappears entirely, thanks to sun and seawater. The disease can be much more active in spring, autumn and winter – particularly around Christmas time, where bad weather combines with children eating lots of sweets and high-sugar fruits, etc.”

“In the case of caring for my own children, I try to ensure that all products used at home – from cleaning products to body washes – must also be pure compositions that are as free of additives as possible. I use as few as possible, and don’t have shelves of products each only catering to very specific niches. For example, I use soda a lot – a very basic yet useful cleaner. We also eat home-grown or organic food as much as possible, and try to avoid store-bought fruit. Additionally, we supplement all of this by taking vitamin D and probiotics, as the gut microbiome affects the entire body’s health.”

“I strongly recommend consuming Omega fatty acids – hemp oil is taken daily in our family. I often see people afraid to give vegetable oils to their kids, as if it is something dangerous, yet never question the medicines they regularly use with them. My children have been consuming hemp oil since they were babies, because I know just how beneficial it can be – helping with digestion, skin conditions, child development, and much more.”

What else should I keep in mind?

“Continual monitoring of your child is key – keeping a diary can be extremely helpful, as atopic dermatitis is a very individualised disease. Avoid external irritants as best you can, and avoid food additives and processed foods. Sometimes, it’s possible that small children are not actually reacting to additives, but are simply adapting to new types of food. For example, some babies cannot eat carrots without skin irritation until at least a year old.”

“Focus on your child, not how others are doing. Be alert to their wants, needs and reactions. If some things are not working, do not push your child’s body to accept them, but rather give it time. If a child’s skin is itchy, don’t scratch it; instead, pat it or gently massage vegetable oil into the affected area – it will have a much less damaging effect on the skin.”

Helen’s Reminders

Probiotics and hemp oil:

“Number one in my dermatitis skincare kit. Both are supported by a wealth of research. It has been shown that the microbiome of allergy sufferers is significantly less diverse than non-sufferers, and since modern humans have already lost a significant amount of their bacterial diversity compared to our ancestors, probiotics can be beneficial for everyone. There is nothing to lose, whilst results can often be astonishingly effective – especially for babies born via caesarean section.”

“Hemp oil provides us with Omega-3, which approximately 85% of people are lacking, and supports many bodily functions. Why cannabis? Because hemp has the perfect ratio of omega acids for humans, and also contains gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which is great for fighting skin problems.”

Probiotics can be beneficial for everyone.

 

Home cleaning:

“For cleaning my house, I only use soda, citric acid and vinegar, and try to avoid taking home anything with excess additives. I do my laundry with an eco-friendly liquid detergent and I always research ingredients before buying products; I use liquid products with simple compositions that are as natural as possible, and always fragrance-free. I do not use powders of any kind, and won’t go near questionable preservatives (such as anything containing methylisothiazolinone). Sometimes you’ll find such products labelled eco-friendly, so it pays to be attentive to ingredients labels. Fragranced products can be recognised by parfum/fragrance on the bottle, or words such as linalool, limonene, etc. This is also how I can tell if skincare products are fragranced. Added chemicals and synthetic fragrances are often the root cause of allergic reactions. Finding the reason for your flare-up is imperative to properly solving the issue.”

Find the reason:

“When you are aware of food allergies or intolerances, allergies to household chemicals, etc., your chances of controlling the problem are much greater. In milder cases, a good cream can relieve atopic dermatitis symptoms, but it is still important to identify the root cause of the issue. Visiting a doctor is always a good idea, but you can also do a lot yourself through observation, experimenting, and using a food diary. Try to think when the problem started – perhaps after introducing new foods, medicines or vaccinations, beginning nursery or school, etc. Something new in the child’s life may have caused this overreaction of their immune system.”

Stress

“Stress can be a big factor in atopic dermatitis manifesting, and stressors on the body can be wide-ranging. According to research, about 30% of skin diseases have a psychological component to them; after all, the skin is an emotional organ, too.”

Nutrition

“Try to provide organic foods for children, and avoid additives (e-numbers), sugar, wheat, and dairy products. The composition of food should be simple and nutritious (things like ready-made meals often are not). Ensure your child’s diet contains plenty of prebiotics or food for the good bacteria in the gut (e.g. green vegetables). We put a special emphasis on garden vegetables and fruit – local berries, for example, are full of essential nutrients.
“Of course, reactions to vegetables and other healthy foods are also possible – there will always be certain people who cannot eat certain things. Food is such a broad topic that it is impossible to do it justice in so few words, but avoiding processed foods that promote inflammation is always going to be of benefit.”

“I have come across cases where a parent has observed and tried many things, but ultimately the root of the problem often comes down to wheat or milk. For example, after eating a pancake, the child’s face may have been very red for several days. It can be difficult to spot signs right away, but you will become better the more you try. If there are several irritants at work the situation can become more complicated, as eliminating one may not cause a visible improvement if other substances are still causing symptoms.”

“Processed foods are generally unsuitable for a healthy lifestyle because they contain lots of additives, have been sitting for a long time losing nutrients, and myriad other reasons. Oriental teachings recommend eating stewed food. Particularly in winter, try to favour warm stewed meals over raw food, so as not to add moisture to the intestines or reduce their temperature. A particularly effective body restorer is a mild homemade bone broth (this can also be great for adults, as it restores the collagen reserves responsible for skin elasticity).

“We often hear it said that because an allergy test has come back clean, someone must be fine to eat absolutely everything. However, in reality, a food intolerance test can give completely different results. You may still find that if you adjust a child’s diet properly, positive results will follow. The diet must be strictly adhered to when it comes to potential intolerances, though. It is not enough to not drink milk at home or only at nursery, etc. Additionally, it is important to monitor whether there are other health concerns that may factor into the issue – diarrhoea or constipation, abdominal pain, long or intense periods of illness.”

Zinc

“Zinc helps greatly as a dietary supplement, as it supports the immune system and cleanses the body. In the case of breastfed babies, it’s usually enough for the mother to take high-quality zinc on her own. Since it is increasingly difficult to get the requisite levels of minerals and vitamins from food these days, babies can also struggle to inherit enough of these substances from their mothers. Children may also benefit from supplemental digestive enzymes.”

Highly reactive and absorbable, zinc diglycinate is an important mineral for the functioning of the whole body.

 

Children’s clothes

“It is advised to choose eco-cotton if possible, as well as eco or additive-free nappies. Silk and wool (or blends including them) are also fine, though wool may not be suitable for everyone.”

Bath and pool

“These would be minimum recommendations, with the pool being a ‘no’ in any case. Applying cream is not a solution for repeated irritation. I washed my children just with clean water until quite late on – babies do not need liquid soaps or similar under any circumstances. Both adults and children can use hemp oil and Epsom salt in bath water, for example. With shower products (and the same with creams), make sure you use clean, pure products – petroleum products, preservatives, fragrances and strong surfactants destroy the skin’s microflora, rather than supporting it. As a result, the skin’s protective barrier becomes weaker. The sun and sea water are great saviours – even one day at the beach can be transformative. In winter, when the weather is at its harshest, a sunny beach holiday will only do you good.”

“Finally – if the microbiome is strong, the mind is calm, and the body can handle allergens on its own. The key word is B A L A N C E.”

Skincare recommendations for a child with atopic dermatitis:

  • Instead of a bath, try a quick and lukewarm shower. Avoid foaming soaps. If you wish, add LUMI La-Laa Caressing Baby Oil whilst bathing or apply afterward onto damp skin. The oil has a certified organic formula that makes babies’ skin silky soft. It is also suitable for removing baby dandruff or softening crusty areas of skin.
  • In the case of atopic dermatitis, it is important to remember that if skin is very red or broken, any water-based product can sting the child and make skin redder. In such cases, we recommend applying anhydrous products, such as LUMI CBD+ healing salve, for the first few days. If redness recedes, you may switch to a LUMI Bio-Klinik cream. Read more about our treatment combo for children’s atopic dermatitis here.
  • When cold weather arrives, you may notice irritation on your children’s hands or a harsh dryness. Children often do not dry their hands properly after washing them, which can cause their skin to become fragile and not function properly. LUMI Arctic Hand Cream creates a protective layer over the skin that will help remedy and prevent such situations.
  • We recommended giving your child 2 tablespoons of mild hemp seed oil daily. Our favourite is PĒLL mild hemp seed oil. You may be surprised at the gentle taste and how happy your children are to take it!

“My 3-year-old daughter developed red, dry patches on her legs. At first, there were a few that disappeared by themselves, but as time went on, more of them started to appear and the situation worsened. We received a diagnosis from the doctor – atopic dermatitis. The doctor immediately recommended to start using hormone ointment, but my mother’s heart did not allow me to apply hormone ointment for my child as the first option.

I decided beforehand to delve deeper into the disease and try to find alternatives. As a first step, we gave up strawberries, sweets and juices from our dining table. On the recommendation of the specialists, we also started using a moisturizing cream to reduce the itchiness and speed up the healing of the skin. The chosen cream was LUMI’s Bio-Klinik Moisture-Lock Body Cream. In the past, I have used various LUMI facial care products on myself, which I really, really liked. In addition to being effective, these products are also 100% natural!

We used the cream twice a day and after two weeks we could already see signs of improvement. After four weeks of use, the red dermatitis spots were gone! Atopic dermatitis is characterized by rapid resolution with proper care, but the result may not be long-lasting. So we have been using the cream once a day until now, and the signs of dermatitis have not returned. I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone to try LUMI’s Bio-Klinik Body Cream before taking medication – Your body will thank you!” – Little Nora’s mother

Photo: Caroline Sada
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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

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How to cleanse your face

Let’s face it: people have made many mistakes when using cosmetic products in recent decades. As a result, they have damaged their skin instead of supporting it.

Cleaning your face plays an essential role in skincare routine. Let’s take a look at the ingredients we should avoid and point out the most effective and safe methods to clean our skin.