Epicuren Blog
Eye Cream vs. Eye Serum: What’s The Difference And Which Is Best?
Are you looking for an added benefit in your skincare routine? Facial toner is a skincare product designed to give your skin the extra cleansing it needs. Nowadays, toners are gentle and can address various skin concerns. Learn more about the benefits of toners and find the best toner for your skin type. What is a Toner? Toner is a skincare product designed to clarify, impart nutrients, or add humectants to the skin. This product removes dirt, makeup, and oil from the skin to cleanse and minimize the appearance of pores. This liquid formula can address various skin concerns and goals. Many toners are formulated with antioxidants to brighten your skin’s appearance and reduce visible redness. What Does Toner Do? Toners are well-known products formulated to remove irritants and debris from the skin. Initially known as astringents, toners historically were alcohol based and were previously known for their drying properties. Nowadays, the new toners remove dirt and oil and nourish the skin. Toners can also act as a primer before using serums, moisturizers, and other skincare products. They are very different from traditional toners. Is a Toner Necessary? Toner is an excellent product for removing dirt and oils from your skin that your cleanser does not. Whether you want extra cleansing, hydration, or clearer-looking skin, toners are a great addition to your skincare routine. Benefits of Toner Removes Excess Dirt Cleansers typically remove debris from the surface of the skin but do not always remove every bit of makeup and dirt. Toners are formulated with solutions to help remove stubborn residues. Helps with Environmental Concerns Your skin's pH level may affect how your skin looks. Pollution and skincare products with high pH levels (more alkaline formulas) can disrupt skin’s natural moisturizing factors and contribute to dehydrated-looking skin. Toners contain ingredients that can help with the skin's natural acidic state, A slightly acidic pH is optimal for healthy-looking skin. Visibly Hydrates Skin Toners can add moisture to your skin with various hydrating ingredients, such as rose water or aloe vera. Toners help against environmental aggressors, allowing the skin to look plump and moisturized. Improves Efficiency of Other Products After using a toner, your other skincare products will be more effective. Toners may also have antioxidant properties, allowing for a more even-looking and brighter complexion. Can Exfoliate Skin Using a toner with AHAs or BHAs can help exfoliate the skin. This allows for a smooth texture and more radiant-looking skin. Read Our Blog For more information, please read our blog, How to Use Toner, A Step-By-Step Guide, to learn the best times to tone your skin. Our Recommended Products for Your Skin Type Dry Skin The Colostrum Hydrating Mist helps to rejuvenate dry skin using a premium blend of glacier water and colostrum. Oily Skin Clarify Exfoliating Astringent helps exfoliate the skin and remove excess makeup, dirt, and oil from the skin. Sensitive Skin The Soothe Dermal Repair Mist is a mild toner ideal for individuals with sensitive skin. Another cooling and hydrating product for individuals with sensitive skin is the Refresh Cucumber Aloe Mist. Acne Or Blemish-Prone Skin The Brazilian Propolis Mist improves your complexion by allowing the skin to flourish. This is ideal for individuals with problem-prone skin. Normal Skin The rejuvenating Protein Mist Enzyme Toner helps to visibly hydrate the skin by infusing it with rich nutrients. Frequently Asked Questions Is it reasonable to use toner on your face every day? Using toner on your face every day can be beneficial for your skin. Make sure you choose a toner that fits your skin concerns and needs. What does toner do to the face? Toner cleanses the face, allowing for your pores to appear clearer. Should I moisturize after toner? You should moisturize after toning the skin. This ensures the skin is clean and allows for better moisturization. Can I leave toner on my face overnight? Yes, you will leave toner on your face after applying it. You should apply toner, let it dry down and follow with skin appropriate serums and moisturizers. Do you rinse off toner? There is no need to rinse toner from your skin. References https://www.herbaldynamicsbeauty.com/blogs/herbal-dynamics-beauty/what-does… https://asianbeautyessentials.com/blogs/the-idol-beauty-blog/what-does-tone…
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When to Apply Retinol For Best Results
Retinol is highly praised for its proven benefits that help fight the visible signs of aging, but is there a right order to apply retinol products during your skincare routine? Does it matter whether you apply retinol serums before or after moisturizing? Let’s answer some of the hottest questions around retinol skincare products so you get the best results from our powerful formulas when you decide to incorporate retinol into your skin care routine. What is Retinol? Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A, a potent antioxidant that is quickly absorbed to help provide a cascade of effects such as improved skin texture, increased collagen production, treat acne, and improve skin tone. First, it stimulates and helps the skin to propagate more quickly, decreasing the time it takes to see a fresh, radiant looking complexion. Retinoids have been known to help individuals concerned with the appearance of melasma and hyperpigmentation. It can help your skin look and feel softer, and smoother. Which is a core reason it’s used in so many anti-aging products like our Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Complex. Because there are many types of retinoids, including retinol, we want to be specific about how we include retinol in our products. The powerful active ingredients we use are often blends , of complementary, equally potent compounds that we can’t characterize as a specific percentage strength of retinol. In our Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Complex, we use a blend of retinyl acetate, retinol, and glycolic acid (2.5%) to help with the appearance of smoother looking skin, clogged pores, pigmentation, and, of course, fine lines and wrinkles on aging skin. Should You Apply Retinol Before or After Moisturizer? The truth is that retinol-based products will be effective no matter when you use them after cleansing your skin. Because retinol is so potent, we recommend not applying our retinol products with damp skin, as the water facilitates the absorption of retinol compounds, which can lead to skin irritation. For a similar reason, the best time in your skincare routine to apply retinol products depends on how your skin reacts to the compound. Who Should Apply Retinol Before Moisturizer As long as your skin has been thoroughly cleansed with a gentle cleanser and toner, your skin is ready to take in the potent active ingredients in our powerful complex. Applying retinol product before moisturizer means you receive the full power of its ingredients, which can be overwhelming for people with even slightly sensitive skin types. At the same time, applying it before moisturizer ensures you see the maximum results from your high-quality skincare routine. If your skin doesn’t experience any negative side effects, go ahead and use it before moisturizing. Who Should Apply Retinol After Moisturizer Those who know their skin is sensitive may not want to use topical retinoids at all to avoid the risk of inflammation, redness, and irritated skin. However, if you want the benefits that our retinol formula provides, applying a retinol product after using your moisturizer can dampen the effects of retinol, both reducing the risk of irritation while limiting the formula’s influence on delicate skin. You won’t get the same benefits that someone applying it before moisturizing would, but you still get some. How to Use Epicuren Discovery’s Potent Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Complex Our retinol serum is so strong, we want to make sure people apply it in the correct way to make sure people are only enjoying the skin benefits and lowering the risk of irritation or redness. First, our Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Complex should only be applied in the evening, not twice a day. Second, even tolerant skin types should only use this formula 3-5 times per week. Finally, as long as your skin can handle it, we recommend you use retinol before moisturizer for the best effect. Professional-Grade Retinol Skincare Products If you’re interested in the benefits of retinol, you’re looking for high-quality, high-potency active ingredients Epicuren Discovery has just the products for you. However, retinol products are often misleading, which is why we want to give you the honest truth that pure retinol products are often not the best way to incorporate Vitamin A derivatives into your skincare routine. We believe a balanced, synergistic approach with glycolic acid and Vitamin A derivatives that convert into pure retinol in your skin is the best way to get the benefits of retinol. It’s this level of care and dedication to high-quality formulas that we put into every one of our products, for the best results without a prescription. Find more professional-grade products that are tailored to your skin type and goals by taking our Skin Quiz today.
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Why Colostrum Is The Anti-Aging Skincare Ingredient You Need
As you start to notice lines and wrinkles that don’t go away when you stop smiling or squinting, for example, your thoughts quickly turn to anti-aging skincare products. And with many ingredients vying to be included in your routine, how do you know which products are the best for your skin as it begins to show its age? One of our favorite natural ingredients with many benefits is bovine colostrum, which is the main active ingredient in two of our most popular products: Colostrum Hydrating Mist and Colostrum Luminous Glow Cream. What is Bovine Colostrum? Colostrum is the term used to describe the first milk a mammal produces for their offspring, sometimes described as “pre-milk.” All mammals, including humans, produce colostrum, which is rich in its nutritional and immune benefits. It’s packed with ingredients that are nourishing to newborns for a few days or weeks until the normal breastmilk is produced. Bovine colostrum, then, is colostrum sourced from cows, in our case, pasture-fed Nebraska cows. Our colostrum is extracted and filtered in an ethical and humane manner so you don’t have to fear that any animal is harmed in the production of our colostrum products. These cows are pesticide, hormone, and antibiotic free to give you peace of mind and allows us to achieve our high standards for quality products with ethical ingredients. Nutrients and Beneficial Compounds in Colostrum The three main compounds and ingredients in colostrum that help with skin are protein, immunoglobulins, and growth factors. We chose bovine colostrum because research shows that it is many dozens of times more potent than human or other species’ colostrum, and it can be harvested humanely and efficiently. Colostrum is very rich in protein, and also contains a specific type of protein called lactoferrin, which has antioxidants and has an antibacterial effect. When taken orally it has been known to help prevent the appearance of acne when used on a regular basis. Babies of all species need to grow quickly if they are going to be healthy and strong, which is why colostrum is also full of potent growth factors. Colostrum has a beneficial influence on gut health, and when applied to the skin has an overall stimulating and beneficial effect. Skin Concerns Bovine Colostrum Can Treat Bovine colostrum is easily absorbed by the skin to provide benefits. As mentioned, one main area of effect that colostrum can have is on an overall glowing look. By stimulating the skin, you get a fresher looking appearance more often. Colostrum has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the appearance of skin redness and irritation. Colostrum is perfect for individuals who are just starting to experience the signs of aging. With regular use, colostrum products may help lessen the appearance of wrinkles. How to Use Colostrum Incorporating colostrum into your skincare routine is as simple as reading the instructions on our Colostrum Duo products. Use our Colostrum Hydrating Mist any time you want a spritz of refreshment and hydration and put our Luminous Glow Cream at the end of your morning routine to start your day with a dewy, hydrated glow. Over time your skin will grow accustomed to these new ingredients and start to look like the rejuvenated skin you want. Professional-Grade Skincare Products by Epicuren Discovery There’s no time like the present to get potent, proven ingredients in your anti-aging skincare routine. With products powered by ingredients like colostrum, you can be assured that you’re giving your skin the best care with products by Epicuren Discovery. Find more high-quality formulas to elevate your skincare routine by browsing our website or taking our Skin Quiz to be matched with products that are perfect for your skin type and concern.
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Skin Purging Or Breakout? How To Tell And What To Do
Did you know that not all blemishes that discolor your face are necessarily acne breakouts, but could be the skin purging toxins and healing itself? While it still may be upsetting to deal with like acne, a skin purge needs to be handled differently than acne to make sure your skin appears healthy polished and well nourished. What is Skin Purging? Skin purging is the process of the skin ridding itself of dirt, dead skin cells, and other chemicals or toxins that had previously been absorbed into it. It brings these materials to the surface throughout the face, where they’re expelled via breakout. It’s different than acne, which has a similar appearance of blackheads and pustules, but is caused by bacterial infection of the pores. What Does Skin Purging Look Like? Purging skin looks very similar to acne. A skin purge looks like small red raised parts of the skin that hurt a little when you touch them. They can also appear as whiteheads and blackheads. What Causes Skin Purging? Primarily, the skin purges these compounds in response to the presence of a few different chemicals, commonly used in professional skincare treatments or medical-grade products. These ingredients include alpha and beta hydroxy acids that exfoliate the skin chemically, as well as benzoyl peroxide, retinols, Vitamin C, and glycolic acid. When these ingredients are used on the skin, they help drive these complexion-dulling substances out. This is in part of how some cosmetic treatments achieve their results, they exfoliate the skin from the inside out. If you’ve recently switched skincare products or undergone a treatment such as a chemical peel or medical-grade face mask and see pimple-like features forming a few days after it, this is most likely purging, not acne. What to Do About A Skin Purge Because the skin is doing something it’s intended to be doing with purging, the best way to deal with it is to keep your routine the same. At this time, your skin will be sensitive and vulnerable to harsh active ingredients, so don’t think you need to switch to an even more aggressive cleanser, for example. Just like with acne, don’t pop the pimples. You should consider washing face towels and pillows (and even your bedsheets) to prevent bacteria on these surfaces from aggravating your purge. To help minimize the effect of future purges, it’s best that, when introducing a new skincare product into your routine, especially one with strong ingredients, to do so gradually over the course of a few days to allow your skin to adjust to the new formula. A skin purge typically lasts somewhere between a few days and 2 weeks, and if it lasts longer, you may want to switch to your previous skincare routine or avoid the treatment you had. Gentle, Professional-Grade Skincare by Epicuren Discovery If you’re looking for highly effective, yet gentle, easy-to-use products to take your skincare to the next level, Epicuren is your ultimate destination. Our daily Clarify Cleanser, for example, is formulated with natural moisturizers and plant-based ingredients for a silky experience to start your routine each day. Find more products that are tailored to your unique skin type and concern by taking our Skin Quiz today!
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Serum Vs. Moisturizer: Which To Use And When?
Both serums and moisturizers are an essential part of a top-notch skincare routine and provide daily benefits for things like anti-aging and rich hydration. But when honing your perfect daily routine, you may ask why you’re using both, and whether it’s worth keeping both a hydrating serum in your routine if you’re just going to moisturize at the end anyway. We’ll break down what makes the difference between serums and moisturizers so you know whether it’s important to have both in your skincare regimen. What is a Facial Moisturizer? Fairly self-explanatory, a moisturizer is a product that hydrates your skin. Typical moisturizers are emollients, meaning they contain lipids and oils to help it retain moisture with a protective barrier. However, moisturizers can also be humectants, using compounds like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, or even occlusives like lanolin or bee’s wax. The last type of moisturizer is not recommended for daily use, as it is highly comedogenic, meaning it clogs pores like nobody’s business. Our moisturizers are fine-tuned with different degrees of hydration for those with varying skin types, like our Hydro Plus Moisturizer vs. our Nourish Daily moisturizer. They should be applied at the end of your skincare routine prior to sunscreen application. What is a Facial Serum? Face serums have a more lightweight formula than moisturizers that is easily absorbed into the surface of the skin for specific concerns, including moisturization. Our serums are full of highly potent ingredients, offering many benefits (Instantlift Tightening Serum) and for specific areas of the face (Eye Alive Serum). The formulas vary quite a bit, allowing people to customize and elevate their daily routine to address specific concerns and get more from their skincare products than simply cleansing and hydrating each day and night. Differences Between Serums and Moisturizers The key difference between a serum and moisturizers is that serums are made with physically smaller molecules that make them fundamentally different in their goals and purpose. The potent, small molecules of serums’ active ingredients absorb into the surface of the skin, as opposed to lotions’ ingredients, which sit on top of the skin, locking in moisture all day. Serums deliver active ingredients that can help with the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines, and slightly sagging skin. Moisturizers not only promote the appearance of hydrated skin, but some come formulated with UV protection as an added bonus How to Use Serums and Moisturizers Because serums absorb so quickly, they should be applied after your skin has been cleansed, clearing away excess oil and other debris that could hinder its ability to sink in. Toners are effective at further clearing skin of oils and dead skin cells to provide an even more satisfying serum application. Nearly anyone can benefit from using a high-quality serum for their specific skin concerns or goals, and they are especially good to add to your skincare routine. Moisturizers should be the last step in your daily routine, followed only by sun care when needed. Everyone should use a moisturizer, but depending on your skin type, you may want one that’s more or less rich to offset your skin’s natural oil production tendencies. Professional Grade Serums and Moisturizers If you’re looking for the best in proven ingredients and top-quality skincare products, Epicuren Discovery is the place to start. Browse our complete collection of professional products or find tailored solutions to your unique skin type and category of products by taking our Skin Quiz today.
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The Best Way To Apply Face Serum
A good, high-quality serum can make a huge difference to your skincare routine and help you finally get a solution to your specific skin concern, such as redness or dull-appearing skin. But beyond simply adding a professional serum to your daily routine, you should make sure you’re using it correctly to get the most out of your chosen product. What is Face Serum? A serum is a type of skincare product that typically has a lightweight consistency that’s not quite liquid but not a gel. They are formulated with potent ingredients that address a specific need, like more hydration for an anti-aging appearance or helping to even out the skin tone. Serums penetrate the skin better than creams or lotions, and can be negated by surface oil or other skincare products, which is why it’s crucial to use serums only at a certain point in your routine to make sure they are absorbed well. How and When to Use Serum on the Face 1: Cleanse The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing with a mild product that won’t overly dry out your skin. Although people with oily skin types can benefit from a more intense cleanser to cut through the excess oil, the best cleansers are balanced formulas that don’t irritate the skin so as to make it hypersensitive to future product application. 2: Tone If you use toner, apply it after your cleansing step to ensure it works in the way it was designed; to go even deeper than the cleanser to ensure skin is prepared to absorb specialty products and moisturizer as well as provide any specific benefits you may need. 3: Serum Once your skin is thoroughly cleansed and toned, it’s time to apply your serum of choice. The key is to be extremely gentle with the application, as many serums have potent ingredients that naturally sink into the surface of the skin. No need to push too hard or spread the product around too intensely – let the serum work on its own. 4: Moisturize After the serum has fully absorbed, it’s time to moisturize and finish up your routine with sun protection. This helps the ingredients of your serum stick around as long as possible to work their magic. When to Apply Specific Serums Different types of serums sometimes come with different instructions based on the need they’re solving as well as the ingredients that are in them. Here’s when and how often to apply these popular serum types. Vitamin C Serum Vitamin C is instrumental in high-quality creams and sunscreens because it’s a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants are chemicals that neutralize skin-cell damaging compounds called free radicals in the environment. For the appearance of long-lasting youthful skin, a Vitamin C serum is a great choice. Our Enzyme Concentrate Vitamin Protein Complex serum packs a punch of potent ingredients including Vitamin C to nourish your skin once or twice a week as directed above. Hyaluronic Acid Serum For those looking to naturally boost the hydrating capacity of their skin, look no further than our Moisture Surge Hyaluronic Acid serum. This rich yet lightweight gel pairs beautifully with our Epi-Onyx products during your daily and nightly routine. Retinol Serum Epicuren Discovery uses an advanced scientific approach in skincare, a favorite is our Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Complex, blended with Vitamin A and glycolic acid to help your skin look softer and smooth with each application. Due to the strength of this formula, you should only use it every other day and only during your nightly routine. This product is also not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers. Eye Serum The delicate skin around the eyes is often the first to experience the signs of aging, such as sagging, loose skin, or hollow appearance. Help keep your eyes looking youthful and alert with our Eye Alive Serum, perfect for people struggling with the appearance of under-eye dark circles. Professional-Grade Serums by Epicuren Discovery Your skin deserves the best it can get from proven ingredients and top-quality products. Our complete catalog of serums and skincare staples is waiting for you to discover the products that will help you achieve your goals and enrich your routine. Take our Skin Quiz today to find products matched to your unique skin type and concerns.
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Is Colostrum The New Collagen?
The word collagen has been thrown around for years in the skincare community, being hailed as the holy grail of skincare. In recent years, however, those who are on the cutting edge of skincare ingredients are getting more excited about a compound that may sound familiar, but for a very different reason: colostrum. What is Collagen? Collagen is one of two vital proteins used as a structural compound in the skin, which promotes skin elasticity and firmness. When collagen breaks down or naturally decreases through aging, lines and wrinkles can form in the skin, which is why collagen is so frequently talked about in anti-aging skincare products. Benefits of Collagen Collagen is essential for maintaining the skin’s structure, elasticity, and firmness. As a natural protein found in the body, it plays a crucial role in maintaining smooth, resilient, and youthful-looking skin. When supported through high-quality skincare ingredients or supplements, collagen can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and promote a plumper, more hydrated-looking complexion over time. Studies have shown that many ingredients used in skincare products, such as retinol, amino acids, peptides, and antioxidants, can help support the body's natural collagen production and mitigate the signs of aging. These are popular ingredients, but there might be one you haven’t heard about: colostrum. What is Colostrum? Colostrum is the term for breast milk produced shortly after giving birth for several days. We know - not exactly anyone’s first thought when it comes to skincare - but this substance is jam-packed with growth factors, immune system boosters, and other compounds that newborns need and benefit from greatly. And just to put your mind at ease, all the colostrum we source for our products comes from humanely treated cows, not humans.Bovine colostrum promotes superior nutritional value during an infant's first days. Colostrum supplements encourage gut health, immune health, digestive health, and many other health benefits for newborn children (and calves). When added to skincare products, it promotes the appearance of healthy-looking, beautiful skin. Benefits of Colostrum Colostrum offers a rich blend of growth factors, proteins, and nutrients that help nourish the skin. When applied topically, it supports the skin’s natural barrier, delivers superior hydration, and helps reduce visible signs of stress or irritation. Especially beneficial for dry, sensitive, or mature skin, colostrum-infused products can promote a healthier-looking, more radiant complexion. Collagen vs. Colostrum When comparing colostrum and collagen, there’s not a direct correlation between them, but their popularity in skincare and as a nutritional supplement is comparable. Collagen is abundant in the human body at all times and provides structure and support not just for skin health, but also for essential bodily functions. It is vital for joint health, provides cushioning between bones, and is the building block for skin, cartilage, bones, muscles, and tendons. Colostrum, on the other hand, is only present in the body during pregnancy and stops being produced shortly after delivery. It is the first line of defense for newborns against illness with antibodies and is known to help with establishing the gut microbiome of infants. When ingested, collagen supplements may help with joint and skin health, while bovine colostrum supplements may help with gut health, the immune system, and muscle recovery. Although many people swear by the benefits of supplements and research is ongoing, there is limited evidence to support any of these claims. Furthermore, supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so you might not be getting what you hope for by taking them. Skincare is a reliable option for these ingredients and offers benefits when applied to your skin. In a way, colostrum and collagen are two parts of a skin-enhancing process. Despite what one might think, applying collagen directly to the skin does not create more collagen. Instead, its larger molecular size is great at providing humectant and moisturizing properties. Collagen skin care products utilize hydrolyzed collagen, which is broken-down collagen, to help the product absorb onto the skin's surface more easily. Its film-forming properties also help reduce water evaporation from the skin. These three actions of attracting water, hydrating, and mildly occluding are important to nourished-looking skin. Maintaining a moisturized skin barrier results in less visible lines and wrinkles and less sensitized, dry, and dehydrated-looking skin. Bovine colostrum is known to visibly help the skin look better.. Colostrum is composed of hyaluronic acid, lactoferrin, immunoglobulins, growth factors, and telomerase enzymes. The combination of which is a multifunctional skin supportive ingredient that is known for its nutritive and hydrating properties. It is perfect for those individuals who are concerned with the signs of aging, dehydrated-looking skin, and even those who are experiencing breakouts. What Ages Should I Use Collagen and Colostrum Products? Collagen and colostrum can be incorporated into your skincare routine at different stages, depending on your skin’s needs. In your mid-to-late 20s and beyond, collagen-supporting products are ideal for proactively maintaining the skin before the visible signs of aging become more pronounced. Colostrum can be beneficial at any age, especially for those experiencing dryness, sensitivity, or a compromised skin barrier due to stress, environmental factors, or seasonal changes. Our Collagen and Colostrum Products Epicuren’s Metadermabolic® Protein Enzyme Complex is a proprietary blend of B-vitamins, collagen, and elastin that enhances skin luminosity and moisture. This protein with intelligence can be found throughout the line in the form of serums and moisturizers. We recommend the Metadermabolic® Protein Enzyme Trio Kit. With over 30 years of developmental research behind it, this 3-Step System works in unison for an energized and brighter looking complexion. Smooth on Skin Rejuvenation Therapy Moisturizing Cream or Evening Emulsion Enzyme Moisturizer afterwards. Both, enriched with the Metadermabolic® Protein Enzyme Complex, effectively quench dry skin and help skin appear refined. Two of our most popular products are our Colostrum Luminous Glow Cream and Colostrum Hydrating Mist. This hydrating Colostrum Duo is ideal for visibly dry and dehydrated skin. The nourishing feeling of Colostrum Luminous Glow Cream leaves a dewy finish that feels bouncy morning til night. Colostrum Hydrating Mist is a weightless hydrator that can be used before moisturizer and after applying makeup. Use this throughout the day to freshen up parched skin as well. High Quality Skincare by Epicuren Discovery If you’re looking for the best, most potent ingredients to power your skincare routine, look no further. We use decades of pharmaceutical skincare research to design our products with natural ingredients and cruelty-free sources. Find products tailored to your unique skin type and concern by taking our Skin Quiz today. -- Sources https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8197926/ https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/11/6/197 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38534748/
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Green Tea Skin Benefits: How To Use Green Tea For Flawless Skin
Green tea is a symbol of zen, health, and purity, and has been used for millennia throughout the world for all kinds of benefits and purposes. It has made its way from the forests of China to the health and wellness industry of professional cosmetics, where green tea continues to provide essential, high-quality nourishment and protection. What is Green Tea? Green tea is what you think it is: the ancient drink that has helped many people warm up in the morning or stay awake during a drowsy afternoon. Many people enjoy the soothing beverage by adding a green tea bag to warm water. Green tea is made from green tea leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant, more commonly known as the tea plant. Its active ingredients that provide skincare benefits include: Caffeine Tannins Polyphenols (catechins) Green Tea Skincare Benefits Green tea provides many protective capabilities and even anti inflammatory properties. While caffeine and tannins help shrink blood vessels mildly, decreasing swelling and puffiness, polyphenols are known for their potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are essential for protecting your skin against harmful environmental compounds called free radicals that damage skin cell DNA and eventually lead to premature signs of aging. Antioxidants like those found in green tea neutralize free radicals. Applying vs. Drinking Green Tea It’s no surprise that a common question people ask about getting the benefits of green tea for their skin is whether they should drink it or apply green tea directly to their skin. It’s totally fine to drink green tea, which potentially has its impact on your skin health when consumed, but a more direct and guaranteed route to gaining green tea’s benefits is to use it in a topical skincare product. Our green tea skincare products are designed with complementary active ingredients like seaweed and aloe vera that have been known to provide a soothing effect for all skin types allowing it to look radiant and moisturized all day. How to Best Use Green Tea Our green tea-infused products are used as needed to refresh the skin. Applying green tea topically can benefit those faced with irritation from sun damage or people with sensitive skin. For example, our Aloe Vera Calming Gel delivers botanicals and green tea extract to lessen the appearance of redness, swelling, and sensitivity, while helping hydrate and deliver antioxidants. On the other hand, a green tea mask can effectively rejuvenate your skin in a matter of minutes. our Green Tea & Seaweed Soothing Mask helps you experience a luxurious escape up to twice a week, purifying skin and providing rich hydration for soft, supple skin. A green tea face mask uses green tea extracts to soothe the skin, refresh oily skin, and remove dead skin cells. Best Skincare Products with Green Tea While you can simply brew up a mug of green tea, wait for the soaked tea bags to cool, and apply them to your face, the best way to incorporate this rich antioxidant into your routine is through products specifically designed to complement and enhance the green tea benefits for skin. Our team uses pharmaceutical research to design and develop professional-grade moisturizers, cleansers, and more, using only the most proven, potent ingredients like green tea. Learn more about our products or find personalized results for your skin type by taking our Skin Quiz today!
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Niacinamide: A Superstar Vitamin For Exceptional Skin Health
The world of skincare and sourcing only the best and most effective skincare ingredients is a wide, wonderful world. The best ingredients are all-around beneficial and good for targeting specific concerns like redness, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines. Knowing which ingredients you respond well to and give you the best benefits makes you a skincare master, buying the specific products that work perfectly in your routine. Niacinamide is one ingredient you should know about. What is Niacinamide? Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is used in your metabolism and nervous system. It can be found in foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and leafy greens, which means to some degree, you’re likely consuming niacinamide fairly regularly. However, this isn’t the same thing as applying it directly to your skin, where it’s able to immediately go to work and not be processed by the body for other purposes. Niacinamide vs. Niacin Although both Niacinamide and Niacin are forms of Vitamin B3, they accomplish different goals. Niacinamide is a multi-functional skincare superstar known to have antioxidant, and humectant benefits. Niacin is best known to help improve the overall appearance of the skin, including reducing the appearance of sun damage and wrinkles. Benefits of Niacinamide in Skincare Buying products with niacinamide can be a great way not only to enhance your skin overall, but also combat specific problems. In general, niacinamide can help decrease the appearance of redness and irritation and help reduce the visible signs of aging. Decreases Redness and Inflammation As an anti-inflammatory compound, niacinamide has multiple benefits for people struggling to control several types of inflammation. First, concerning skin that tends to be sensitive, it can tone down the appearance of redness. Second, it can help the appearance of acne breakout symptoms and reduce the chance that it will get worse. Niacinamide is perfect for individuals with eczema. Protects with Antioxidants Antioxidants are compounds that neutralize damaging free radicals that are present throughout our environment and can lead to premature signs of aging such as wrinkles and pigmentation. The skin has its own resources to fight off this damage and other environmental factors, but niacinamide enhances this ability to keep the skin supple, hydrated, and fresh. Boosts Collagen Production By now you probably know of the importance of collagen when it comes to keeping your skin looking youthful, smooth, and supported for many years. Niacinamide has its own role to play in the anti-aging process, with some studies showing a specific concentration of niacinamide reducing the appearance of fine lines dramatically over the course of a few months. How to Add Niacinamide to Your Routine Now that you know how awesome and powerful niacinamide is, the next step is finding a way to incorporate it into your daily skincare routine. Most often, niacinamide is found in moisturizing creams and lotions, which means our after bath moisturizers are no exception. Check out the ingredients for niacinamide in products like our Kukui Coconut Moisturizer to begin reaping the many benefits of this skincare superstar If you’re not sure where to start, please take our Skin Quiz, which matches all our products with your specific skin type and concern to make sure you get the best products tailored to your needs.
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How To Even Your Skin Tone On Your Face And Body
Achieving a perfect, smooth, healthy glow is everyone’s ideal complexion. However, many factors prevent people from this ideal smooth, even skin tone, including texture issues and pigmentation of various kinds. So for those looking for the best products and a step-by-step plan to help fix the appearance of uneven skin tone, Epicuren Discovery is here to help. What is an Uneven Skin Tone? An uneven skin tone can be any number of things that cause a person’s face to not appear uniform all over. Large pores, freckles, age spots, and redness can all contribute to an uneven skin tone, and not all of these can be prevented. The ideal even skin tone is one with non-visible or small pores, even oil distribution, and a single color appearance throughout the entire face. What Causes Uneven Skin Tone? As many factors contribute to uneven skin tone, there are many causes. A chief concern among people looking for an even skin tone is acne and acne scarring. Active acne breakouts obviously create an uneven skin tone, and the lasting effects of cystic acne can contribute to a mottled or scarred appearance, affecting skin tone in the long run. The natural process of aging can cause uneven skin tone, as can sun exposure that leads to freckles, age spots, and fine lines. You can prevent sun damage by always wearing sunscreen, even if you aren’t going to be outside for a long time. Anti-aging products that provide deep hydration and support for aging skin are also helpful at keeping skin bright and beautiful and even. How to Naturally Even Your Skin Tone For those of us who haven’t had the most evening skin tone routine for our entire lives, there’s a few ways to get our skin back on track with a comprehensive routine and Epicuren Discovery’s high-quality products. Step 1: Cleanse with an Exfoliating Scrub As the beginning of any good skincare routine, first cleanse your face. However, we recommend cleaning it thoroughly with a good exfoliant, like our Micro-Derm Ultra-Refining Scrub to really get your skin ready for the treatments it’s about to receive. This is a great product for your face, but for evening skin tone throughout your body, try a physical exfoliator, like our Mint Renewal Body Polish. Step 2: Balance Skin with Toner After exfoliating, you’ll need to re-balance the skin’s surface use. Use our Protein Mist Enzyme Toner , a refreshing mist that helps skin look moisturized and refined. Step 3: Address Discoloration For those who are frustrated with discoloration either of dark circles, redness, or sun spots, we have a solution for you. Before addressing the specific under-eye area, use our Prevention and Correction Duo of Vitamin C complex formula to help the appearance of these problem areas. Step 4: Treat Below Your Eyes The under-eye area reveals a lot about your age and even how much sleep you got last night, which means it deserves its own focus during this routine. Especially for those who struggle with dark circles under their eyes, our Eye Alive Serum is perfect for this sensitive area, helping to both brighten this delicate area and moisturize with daily use. Step 5: Moisturize with UV Protection Once you’ve used all your specialty products and serums, it’s time to hydrate for the rest of the day. Given the importance of having good sun protection, we like a two-layered approach, using a good SPF moisturizer in addition to sunscreen application once the moisturizer has been absorbed. Our Defend and Balance tinted sunscreen is perfect because not only does it offer UV protection, but also helps even the appearance of the skin tone. Step 6: Use Sunscreen Daily Finally, pick a sunscreen that works best for you, whether in a tub or bottle, and according to your preferences. Sunscreen helps protects against all kinds of negative side effects of sun exposure, nearly all of which come back to an uneven skin tone. Professional-Grade Skincare Products We hope this guide to treating uneven skin tone at home has helped you craft an ideal routine with potent products to give your face and body the radiant shine with no eyesores. Discover more of our high-quality skincare products with natural, proven ingredients by taking our Skin Quiz. It’s designed to match your skin type and concern to products to help you achieve the goals you want.
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10 Benefits of Coconut Oil for Skin
Coconut oil has been a favorite in beauty routines for centuries, and with good reason. This versatile oil offers a wide range of benefits for your skincare routine. From helping to moisturize to serving as a natural-looking glow enhancer, coconut oil continues to be a go-to for individuals who want more emollient moisturization in their regimen. We recognize the benefits of coconut oil for the skin and include coconut oil in many of our high-quality products, like our Coconut Hydrating Milk. Here's a look at 10 potential benefits coconut oil can offer when used as part of your skincare practice. 10 Coconut Oil Benefits Coconut oil is composed of medium-chain fatty acids. Many lipids in coconut oil, like lauric acid, linoleic acid, and saturated fatty acids, may also positively benefit the skin. Coconut oil's many benefits have been known to include: 1. Moisturization One of the most popular uses of coconut oil is as a hydrating layer that can help retain moisture. When you apply products with coconut oil to freshly cleansed skin, it can create a barrier that supports the skin's ability to stay hydrated, especially in dry or cold environments. 2. Adds a Natural-Looking Glow If you're aiming for skin that appears more radiant, coconut oil-based formulas can be used to enhance the natural appearance of your skin. Its rich texture can give skin a fresh, dewy look that many people love. 4. Supports Smooth-Looking Skin Coconut oil is an excellent emollient used in skincare that makes skin appear softer and more supple. It can help reduce the dry, flaky look that often comes with changing seasons. 6. Ideal as a Lip Balm Lip balm that is made with coconut oil is a solid pick. A light application can help minimize the appearance of dryness while giving lips a healthy, hydrated look. Keep a tube or pot in your bag for easy reapplication on the go. 7. Helps Improve the Look of Rough Patches Rough elbows, knees, and heels can benefit with regular use of moisturizer with coconut oil in these commonly dry areas. 9. Makes a Nice Base for Scrubs Coconut oil makes an excellent base when mixed with natural exfoliants like sugar. These scrubs can be used to help exfoliate and refresh the skin's surface. 10. A Simple Addition to Nighttime Skincare Incorporating a rich facial moisturizer with coconut oil into your evening routine is an easy way to finish your skincare regimen. After cleansing, applying a thin layer can help lock in the benefits of your other skincare products, especially for very dry skin. What Skin Types Is Coconut Oil Good For? Coconut oil can be a suitable choice for various skin types, depending on how it is applied in your skincare routine. Most often, coconut oil is used in moisturizers due to the rich properties of medium-chain fatty acids, making it effective in body lotion for those with dry skin. Coconut oil can also be found in oil cleansers, making them a wonderful option for those with sensitive skin types. Coconut oil is slightly occlusive, so it may not be right for people with combination skin or oily skin. Coconut oil works best for people with dry or sensitive skin. Why is Coconut Oil Good For My Skin? Coconut oil, like many plant-based oils, contains naturally occurring fatty acids that contribute to its unique characteristics. These fatty acids give coconut oil its emollient properties, allowing it to glide smoothly across the skin and help support a soft, hydrated appearance. While coconut oil makes a versatile addition to any skincare product, it's always important to consider your individual skin type. If you have sensitive or breakout-prone skin, doing a patch test first can help you decide if it's the right fit for you. Whether you're using it in a lip balm or everyday moisturizer, coconut oil can be an effective part of your skincare lineup. Consistency matters. When you apply products with coconut oil regularly, you may begin to notice subtle improvements in how your skin looks and feels over time. High-quality Coconut Oil Products When choosing skincare products with coconut oil in them, it is important to make sure that you are choosing products with high-quality ingredients. If you're looking for an easy, quick way to incorporate coconut oil into your daily skincare routine, look no further than the high-quality products of Epicuren Discovery. Our products make adding coconut oil to your skincare routine an effective and easy choice. You'll find coconut oil in awesome products like our Kukui Nut Coconut Massage & Body Oil and Anti-Aging Lip Balm, and you can discover other high-quality products with complementary ingredients and benefits to coconut oil by taking our Skin Quiz today. The quiz identifies your area of concern and matches you with products that can take your skincare routine to the next level. Frequently Asked Questions Is It Okay to Use Coconut Oil on the Skin? Yes, many people use coconut oil to support skin hydration and softness. It's often applied in a moisturizer or lip balm. However, since coconut oil may result in a heavier product, those with sensitive or breakout-prone skin may want to do a patch test first to see how their skin responds. What Does Coconut Oil Do For the Skin? Coconut oil makes skin feel softer and more hydrated by helping lock in moisture. It's often used in a lip balm, moisturizer, or body oil for a healthy-looking glow. Does Coconut Oil Lighten Skin? No, coconut oil alone will not lighten your skin. Is Coconut Oil Good for Oily Skin? No, people with naturally oily skin or who get breakouts regularly should probably not go for coconut oil products unless it's part of a mild cleanser. How Long Does It Take to See Results From Coconut Oil? Depending on the product, you'll notice immediate visible results, and most coconut oil products can be applied daily.
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What Does Vitamin C Do For Your Skin?
If you’re into skin care, you’ve almost certainly heard about Vitamin C for skincare, as this common antioxidant is heralded as a cure-all for all kinds of skincare concerns. And since it’s an ingredient in many of our professional-grade skincare products, we wanted to take some time to explain exactly how Vitamin C works and how it can take your skincare routine to the next level. What is Vitamin C? Chemically, Vitamin C is ascorbic acid (or L-ascorbic acid). It’s a nutrient that dissolves in water and has a variety of functions throughout your body, including your skin. Vitamin C is involved in protecting skin and helping it function at a high level, keeping it youthful in a number of ways. Vitamin C is suitable for all skin types from oily to combination. How Does Vitamin C Benefit Skin? The main reason Vitamin C is so effective is that it’s a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants are important nutrients for the skin because they neutralize and destroy harmful free radicals in the environment. Free radicals are all around you, and they are highly reactive, damaging skin cells’ DNA, over time causing signs of aging such as pigmentation and wrinkles. Making sure your skin is rich with antioxidants is a good way to ensure everyday protection from these elements. Vitamin C also plays a role in cellular regeneration, and having enough Vitamin C is key to signaling the skin to produce new skin cells and support proteins like collagen and elastin, helping to keep skin fresh, firm, and elastic. Finally, Vitamin C helps the skin retain all-important moisture, keeping your skin smooth and plump while enhancing the benefits of your moisturizer, helping to maintain a good balance between oil production and dryness. Dietary Vitamin C You probably already guessed that there are two ways Vitamin C can enter your body: through your diet and through your skincare routine. Many common foods you consume on a regular basis, especially citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, are good sources of Vitamin C. However, this doesn’t always mean eating a healthy diet automatically translates to having flawless skin. When Vitamin C enters the body through digestion, it is used for internal processes like catalyzing chemical reactions and other essential services. Plus, the body knows how much of every nutrient it needs and will often get rid of those it has in excess. So while we encourage you to consume foods containing Vitamin C, just know that’s not how it’ll help your skin glow. Topical Vitamin C Topical Vitamin C goes directly to the areas where it can have the most beneficial impact on your skin’s health. It’s absorbed directly into the upper layers of skin for the most efficient method of gaining the compound’s benefits. Vitamin C is incorporated into many products, from sunscreens to serums, so there are many ways to incorporate it seamlessly into your daily routine. Who Should Use Vitamin C? Anyone who wants to reap the benefits of this potent ingredient should feel free to do so! Vitamin C is a balanced ingredient that works for any skin type. However, stronger concentrations of ascorbic acid can cause irritation for some people with sensitive skin. In addition, if you have a history of allergic reaction to Vitamin C, you should also not look for Vitamin C skincare products. Professional Skincare Products From Epicuren Discovery At Epicuren Discovery, we’re always looking for the most potent, scientifically verifiable ingredients to incorporate into our complementary formulas. For a kick of Vitamin C in your routine, there’s no more potent place to start than with our Enzyme Concentrate Complex. This highly concentrated serum is rich in vitamins and amino acids to give your skin the ultimate resources for a youthful and radiant appearance. Or if you’re looking for an ultimate moisturizing sunscreen, our X-Treme Cream Propolis broad-spectrum sunscreen could be right for you. Find other products tailored to your skin type by taking our Skin Quiz today.
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