MANILA, Philippines — Studies show that up to 98 percent of Filipinas are exposed to and are affected by the city’s harmful elements and heavy pollution every day.
Whether they are on their way to work or running around the city for errands, they are constantly exposed to dirt, grime, sweat and sun damage. These irritants can stress out their skin, causing it to look dull and tired. Dust trapped in sweaty pores can cause breakouts while harsh sun rays can cause oxidative damage, which can result to skin losing protective cells that keep it looking young, fresh, soft, and supple.
It is never too late to start thinking of ways to protect one’s skin. Here are some beauty recipes that harness the skincare benefits of food, so that together with eating the right stuff, anyone can now achieve beauty inside-out.
Pomegranate reportedly has three times more antioxidants than wine or green tea.
Pomegranate
The fruits of this deciduous shrub have been scientifically proven to provide the following health benefits:
- Anti-oxidant, anti-tumor and anti-viral properties
- Good source of vitamins, including A, C, and E
- It is rich in folic acid, which is good for brain health and prevents birth defects.
- It has three times more antioxidants than wine or green tea.
In addition to these, personal care chain Watsons discovered that pomegranate provides a potent shield against skin-damaging elements, which is why it recently launched a new line of pomegranate skincare regimen, Pure Beauty Urban Shield.
The brainchild of renowned Korean dermatologist, Dr. Seong J. Kim, the line — now available at Watsons and SM Beauty Stores — has allegedly been tested by real women, nine out of 10 of which claimed that their skin was more supple and hydrated after switching to this regimen. Dr. Kim explains that this is what the three-level protection that Urban Shield offers — one layer having fermented pomegranate fruit extracts and other plant extracts with high antioxidant content, another having patented IBRs with anti-pollution and natural skin defense properties, and the final layer having ultra-shielding agents, Galactomyces Fermented Filtrate and Phyto-Placenta.
For protection against damaging pollution, Dr. Kim recommends using the entire regimen inspired by Korean beauty habits – cleansing, toning, serum, eye gel, day lotion, night cream, and mask.
Chia seeds
To continue its commitment to create products that aim to make it easier for every woman to feel and look beautiful every day, Avon recently developed the all-new True Nutra Effects line that harnesses the power of chia seeds to help keep skin look and feel good.
In this case, the chia seeds’ Omega-3, antioxidants, and oil-absorbing properties are crucial in creating two product lines to help balance the skin’s oil production and hydration levels, as well as to fortify the skin against harsh environmental factors while maintaining its natural moisture.
Chia seeds can carry 12 times its weight in water, which can help in retaining skin’s moisture for up to 48 hours.
From shakes and salads, chia seeds have found a new use as a skincare ingredient.
Buckwheat
Whether it is K-drama actresses or K-pop idols, Korean women have captured the attention and the hearts of Filipinos — starting with their signature fair, glowing skin.
The secret to their gorgeous skin; however, is not complicated. While famous for their austere skincare regimens, there are simpler ways to achieve that coveted Korean fairness.
A brand-new Korean-formulated skincare from Amway Philippines, Miyu, meaning “beauty within you,” has the natural ingredient called buckwheat.
“Buckwheat extract has been proven to brighten skin and make complexion look fairer while nourishing it to its deepest layer. It’s a natural way to achieve a more glowing skin,” states Dr. Hae Jo, the brand’s Research and Development Manager.
The doctor recommends three simple beauty steps: cleansing to wash away dirt; using a toner with Chaga mushroom that helps tighten pores; and applying UV (ultraviolet rays) protection.
Together with buckwheat extract, Chaga mushroom tones, minimizes pores and brightens skin.
Who would have thought that the buckwheat used in soba noodles can give one a fairer skin?
Marine fish collagen
Dr. Ellaine Joseph explained that eliminating free radicals and toxins as well as stimulating collagen production are “physiological activities that result in an increase of skin hydration and elasticity which in turn promotes healthy and youthful skin and body.”
Nutramedica, which is behind the anti-aging food supplement Novuskin Lift, recently shared the findings of a clinical study that proves its efficacy and safety in restoring youthful skin in just two months of use. VMV Skin Research Centre + Clinics (Vsrc), the firm that designed and led the clinical study on the skincare label, officially disclosed three major findings from the two-month clinical trial period which involved 84 participants ranging in age from 35 to 60 years old. First, the brand allegedly helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and promotes firm, supple skin and radiate youthful appearance by improving skin elasticity. Second, it helps promote a smooth, plump and healthy complexion by keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated. And third, it is safe to use without significant side effects.
The brand is made with a host of antioxidants and co-factor nutrients that aid in the production of collagen, the skin’s building block, and marine fish collagen that helps promote skin repair, wrinkle reduction, smooth skin, and a young appearance. Factors such as aging, poor diet, smoking, sun exposure, and a stressful lifestyle can speed up the breakdown of collagen, which results in wrinkles and dull and sagging skin.
Health and beauty go hand in hand, and how well one takes care of one’s body — or in this case, one’s skin — definitely shows. Just like a healthy diet, your skin also deserves a boost.