by rebecca | Mar 31, 2016 | RGPR NEWSWIRE
We hear so many statistics created to scare consumers and vilify the mainstream beauty industry, but how many of them are founded upon firm evidence? Lorraine Dallmeier, Formula Botanica’s Director, debunks the myth and states the facts as she debunks these 9 common skincare and beauty myths.
Formula Botanica: Myth 1) 60% of everything you put on your skin ends up in your bloodstream.
This is one of the worst and most commonly stated myths in the industry, and some even say that 100% of what you apply to your skin ends up in your bloodstream. Thankfully, this is not true, as if it were we’d end up as big bulbous sacks of water every time we showered. One simply cannot put a definitive figure on this statistic; none, some or all of something can end up in your bloodstream, there are so many factors at play – your own skin’s health and makeup, the quantities of substances applied, whether there are any other substances present (penetration enhancers will by nature raise the percentage), temperature of product, temperature of skin, the list goes on!
Carrier oils will absorb into the stratum corneum, the very top layers of the skin, and generally won’t go any further, whilst essential oils can end up in your bloodstream, although some of this happens through inhalation.
Formula Botanica: Myth 2) It takes 26 seconds for a cosmetic ingredient to reach your bloodstream
It is impossible to put a definitive time on how long it may or may not take an ingredient to reach your bloodstream. Some ingredients will penetrate the skin and hit the bloodstream rapidly, some won’t get there at all, and others will pool in the skin and be released over time. It also depends on the size of the substances’ molecule and where you apply on your body, as some areas of the skin have thinner skin than others.
Formula Botanica: Myth 3) The average woman’s body absorbs 4lbs 6oz of chemicals a year
Based on the aforementioned points it should come as no surprise that it is impossible to put such a definitive figure on this type of claim. In order to do so, one would have to carry out extremely carefully controlled clinical trials to measure the outcome. This myth originated in the mainstream media, and there are no clinical trials to back it up. Also, when one thinks about it, your food is all made of chemicals, and our bodies absorb certain chemicals from our diet on a daily basis – much more than 4lb 6oz a year!
Formula Botanica: Myth 4) Mineral oils stops the skin from breathing
Mineral oil contains large molecules which will sit on the top of the skin, creating an occlusive layer. Our skin doesn’t actually breathe, but we understand breathing used in this context to mean that our skin needs to expel certain things, for instance when we sweat. However, it’s not just mineral oils that behave like this, all carrier oils have large molecules that will do just the same, the difference being that plant oils are similar in composition to the lipids found naturally in your skin, that can be metabolised easier by your body. They also contain botanical ingredients that are of benefit to your skin.
Formula Botanica: Myth 5) All preservatives are dangerous
Certain preservatives can irritate skin; others have raised big question marks around their use; others are believed to be hormone disruptors, or worse. Some are avoided by consumers altogether. However, preservatives form a very important purpose in your cosmetics. They prevent fungus, bacteria and yeast from growing in your products. If any of these microbes came into contact with your skin they may cause infection or worse – people have been blinded and even killed by unpreserved products. Luckily there are plenty of natural preservatives coming onto the market all the time, and these can be used to keep your skin safe and meet natural and organic formulation requirements.
Formula Botanica: Myth 6) If I avoid synthetics in my skincare, I will avoid them altogether
Many preservatives and other ingredients in cosmetics have been used in the food industry for decades. A study in the New York area in 2006 showed that 90% of food served contained parabens, they are often hidden as E numbers and preservatives.
Parabens are also found in nature in many different fruits and vegetables.
Formula Botanica: Myth 7) “The EU has banned over 1000 cosmetic ingredients, whilst the USA (FDA) has banned only 9”
The above statement isn’t actually a myth, as the figures add up to be true, however you need to understand the statement in context. The list created by the EU contains over 1400 ingredients – some of which you would NEVER find in a cosmetic formulation, including radioactive matter, vaccines, cells or tissues from human origin and asbestos. It’s true that the FDA has been slow to ban or licence ingredients suitable for use, but it’s important to understand the numbers.
Formula Botanica: Myth 8) Natural skincare is chemical-free
Everything is a chemical, be it natural or manmade. What people mean when they state the above is that their skincare doesn’t contain any synthetic ingredients. Don’t forget that natural doesn’t always mean safe, there are plenty of natural ingredients that you should always avoid in skincare.
Formula Botanica: Myth 9) Most conventional skincare only contains synthetic chemicals
There are many synthetic chemicals used in skincare, but the fact is the most commonly used chemical in conventional skincare is distilled water. It’s cheap, it’s easy and it doesn’t give much benefit to your skin or hair other than mild hydration.
Next time you hear a crazy-sounding myth on the internet, research the facts, or ask an expert from Formula Botanica (tweet them @formulabotanica), and be prepared to find out why natural and organic are truly better for you.
About Formula Botanica
Formula Botanica, the ODLQC accredited Online Organic Cosmetic Science School founded in 2012 with over 1500 students and graduates in 86 countries. Director of Formula Botanica Lorraine Dallmeier BSc (HONS) MSc MIEMA MRSB CEnv, a Biologist by training, developed a love of plants for cosmetic application after working in the field of environmental management for over a decade. Lorraine is a Chartered Environmentalist, as well as a full Member of the Royal Society of Biology, the Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.
Formula Botanica’s virtual HQ is located in the UK but they are an international Organic Cosmetic Science School with an international team of experts. There are 10 digital courses at present, 100% online, which students can study at their own pace in their own time. The courses teach everything you need to know in order to go from complete beginner to organic cosmetic formulator and teacher. Many graduates have used their courses to successfully launch or grow their own cosmetics business. They fly the flag for organic and natural skincare all over the world and are ambassadors for a healthier, safer way of life.
Lorraine Dallmeier of Formula Botanica is available for expert comment on beauty formulas, ingredients, both synthetic and natural, beauty and business advice.
Business case studies and success stories are available for placement.
For all enquiries contact Rebecca Goodyear Health & Beauty:
+44 (0) 20 3 651 7360
hi@rebeccagoodyear.com
by rebecca | Mar 23, 2016 | RGPR NEWSWIRE
Herbs used in natural skincare and beauty products can provide great anti-ageing properties. Given the continuous growth in the natural skincare industry, paired with a boom in the number of anti-ageing products on the market, Lorraine Dallmeier, Director of Formula Botanica, here delves deeper into what “anti-ageing” actually means, and shares with us here favourite natural ingredients for anti-ageing the skin.
What is Anti-Ageing?
For most of us, anti-ageing means holding back the signs of ageing on our skin – preventing or reducing the appearance of wrinkles, firming up skin and dealing with uneven skin tone or age spots. Ultimately, anti-ageing is about looking younger and finding that elusive skincare fountain of youth.
There are thousands of skincare products on the market which will claim to bring age-defying benefits, but the vast majority of them are filled with all sorts of ingredients you don’t have a hope of recognising or identifying. Many consumers nowadays want to buy natural skincare products and this is where the power of plants can play an important role.
When looking for good anti-ageing skincare herbs, we want to find plants that are high in antioxidants, as well as containing anti-inflammatory and regenerating properties. Anti-ageing herbs should provide a bright complexion to the skin, protect it against the elements and provide moisture and nourishment.
Best Anti-Ageing Herbs for Natural Skincare
Do such miracle plants actually exist?! The good news is that they do! Here are five of the better known anti-ageing herbs here:
1. Rose and rosehip (Rosa canina) – both rose petal extract and rosehip extract are known for their anti-ageing properties. Rose oil is found helpful when moisturisation and regeneration is needed. Rose buds and petals are beneficial to all skin types, but particularly so for mature skins. Rosehip oil has been shown to improve skin hydration and regeneration and is frequently used in anti-ageing and antioxidant products.
2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – this little wonder herb has clinically proven anti-inflammatory and repairing properties. Chamomile has a range of different properties and is antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It is also considered to be hypoallergenic with the ability to neutralise skin irritants. There are two main different types of chamomile, with German chamomile considered to be more potent than Roman chamomile given its essential oil’s slightly higher content of azulene, an organic compound which is thought to help stop deterioration of skin cells.
3. Lavender (Lavendula officinalis) – much like chamomile, lavender is also credited with many different properties – it is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial and is used to treat wounds. Lavender oil is said to stimulate cellular growth and regeneration, as well as tone the skin. It contains antioxidant properties which help in anti-ageing skincare products.
4. Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) – this ancient herb is described as soothing, healing and softening. The plant has a rich silica (mineral) content and can strengthen connective tissue. Horsetail is said to provide a healthier skin tone and regenerate the skin. It is also said to absorb the most gold from the soil than any other plant (minute amounts) so this herb is precious in many different ways!
5. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) – this wonderful drink also offers many skincare benefits. It is a powerful antioxidant and is frequently used in anti-ageing skincare. It contains a compound called catechin which has been shown to protect cells from free radicals. Research has shown that these compounds are protective for the skin, providing UV protection and improving the appearance and hydration of skin.
About Formula Botanica
Formula Botanica, the ODLQC accredited Online Organic Cosmetic Science School founded in 2012 with over 1500 students and graduates in 86 countries. Director of Formula Botanica Lorraine Dallmeier BSc (HONS) MSc MIEMA MRSB CEnv, a Biologist by training, developed a love of plants for cosmetic application after working in the field of environmental management for over a decade. Lorraine is a Chartered Environmentalist, as well as a full Member of the Royal Society of Biology, the Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.
Formula Botanica’s virtual HQ is located in the UK but they are an international Organic Cosmetic Science School with an international team of experts. There are 10 digital courses at present, 100% online, which students can study at their own pace in their own time. The courses teach everything you need to know in order to go from complete beginner to organic cosmetic formulator and teacher. Many graduates have used their courses to successfully launch or grow their own cosmetics business. They fly the flag for organic and natural skincare all over the world and are ambassadors for a healthier, safer way of life.
Lorraine Dallmeier of Formula Botanica is available for expert comment on beauty formulas, ingredients, both synthetic and natural, beauty and business advice. Business case studies and success stories are available for placement.
For all enquiries contact Rebecca Goodyear Health & Beauty:
+44 (0) 20 3 651 7360
hi@rebeccagoodyear.com
by rebecca | Mar 11, 2016 | RGPR NEWSWIRE
Director of Formula Botanica Lorraine Dallmeier shares with us her top 9 natural beauty oils to help you achieve radiance and healthy glowing skin in preparation for summer.
Botanical oils are some of the most underrated beauty ingredients. Lots of people are scared of applying oil to their face, because they think it will make their skin feel greasy.
The skin produces its own natural moisturiser called sebum, which prevents it from drying out. Because the outer layer of our skin contains natural oils, this makes it easier for oil-based beauty products to penetrate into your skin’s top barrier where they lock in moisture.
If you are looking for a healthy summer glow, I recommend adding one of these 9 botanical oils to your beauty regime. You don’t even need to purchase a blended facial oil, you can simply buy one of these carrier oils by itself and apply it neat.
1. Prickly pear seed oil (Opuntia ficus-indica) – otherwise known as Barbary Fig Seed oil, this beauty oil is extracted from the tiny black seeds of the prickly pear fruit. It is extremely high in antioxidants such as tocopherol (Vitamin E)[1]. Its rich anti-ageing properties make it ideal for dry and mature skin.
2. Marula oil (Sclerocarya birrea) – this African oil is particularly rich in oleic acid, which is known to exert good antioxidant activity. Marula oil has been shown to improve skin hydration and smoothness[2]. It absorbs easily on the skin, helps lock in moisture, and improves smoothness and hydration.
3. Argan oil (Argania spinosa) – this well-known cosmetic anti-ageing oil is prepared by pressing the slightly roasted kernels of the argan tree. It is very high in Oleic (Omega 9) and Linoleic (Omega 6) fatty acids, whichrevitalise and nourish dry skin[3]. Argan is known all around the world as an anti-ageing oil and is deeply moisturising for mature skin and dry hair, a good option for use as a hair oil in the summertime.
4. Andiroba oil (Carapa guianensis) – this golden Central American oil has attracted great interest from the cosmetic industry in recent years for its potential anti-inflammatory properties[4]. It has been found to have good emolliency, helping moisturise and heal your skin. This oil will nourish your dry and sensitive skin and as an added bonus, it will also repel insects, which makes it an ideal choice for packing when you go on your summer holiday!
5. Avocado oil (Persea gratissima) – unlike most commonly known botanical oils, dark green unrefined avocado oil is pressed from the fruit and not from the seed. It contains a high level of Vitamin E and is softening and soothing on the skin[5]. Avocado oil is an excellent hair, skin and nail oil. It provides barrier repair for the skin and has a green, fresh taste and smell. It is slow to penetrate the skin’s outer layers, which means it provides longer lasting moisture.
6. Pomegranate seed oil (Punica granatum) – this superfruit produces an oil rich in fatty acids, including punicic acid. The oil has anti-inflammatory properties[6] which mean it can help soothe dry cracked sun-exposed skin. Pomegranate seed oil is also heralded as an antioxidant-rich beauty oil. One study found it to regenerate the skin’s outer layers[7], making it great for mature skin, and also a good option for supporting skin through summertime when we are exposed to stronger levels of UV.
7. Babassu oil (Orbignya oleifera) – derived from the tallest palm in Brazil, Babassu oil is chemically very similar to coconut oil in that it’s high in antioxidants but babassu oil won’t feel quite as greasy. It is a rich emollient that can be solid at room temperature depending on where you live. This oil is excellent for treating dryness of the skin, hair and scalp.
8. Moringa oil (Moringa olifera) – high in oleic acid and similar in chemical composition to olive oil, Moringa oilis cold pressed from the seeds of the Moringa tree. The oil is light and spreads easily over the skin[8]. It’s an effective moisturiser and softens chapped lips and dry skin but is also great for treating dry and itchy scalp.
9. Sacha Inchi oil (Plukenetia volubilis) – this oil is cold-pressed from the small nuts of a tree in the Peruvian rainforest. Sacha inchi oil contains high levels of antioxidants as well as fatty acids such as Omega-3 and Omega-6[9]. It can help reduce facial redness and is great for sensitive skin owing to its ability to protect the skin’s natural barrier.
One caveat however: always make sure that you are buying a cold-pressed carrier oil and not an essential oil, as these should never be applied neat to your skin.
As summer approaches and you want to give your skin a nourishing treat with an exotic facial or body moisturiser, consider one of these nine botanical beauty oils. You’ll be able to brighten up your skin, which perhaps you’ve neglected as it’s been covered up for the duration of winter, creating a radiant glow using the power of plants.
About Formula Botanica
Formula Botanica, the ODLQC accredited Online Organic Cosmetic Science School founded in 2012 with over 1500 students and graduates in 86 countries. Director of Formula Botanica Lorraine Dallmeier BSc (HONS) MSc MIEMA MRSB CEnv,a Biologist by training, developed a love of plants for cosmetic application after working in the field of environmental management for over a decade. Lorraine is a Chartered Environmentalist, as well as a full Member of the Royal Society of Biology, the Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.
Formula Botanica’s virtual HQ is located in the UK but they are an international Organic Cosmetic Science School with an international team of experts. There are 10 digital courses at present, 100% online, which students can study at their own pace in their own time. The courses teach everything you need to know in order to go from complete beginner to organic cosmetic formulator and teacher. Many graduates have used their courses to successfully launch or grow their own cosmetics business. They fly the flag for organic and natural skincare all over the world and are ambassadors for a healthier, safer way of life.
Lorraine Dallmeier of Formula Botanica is available for expert comment on beauty formulas, ingredients, both synthetic and natural, beauty and business advice. Business case studies and success stories are available for placement.
For all enquiries contact Rebecca Goodyear Health & Beauty:
+44 (0) 20 3 651 7360
hi@rebeccagoodyear.com
by rebecca | Feb 26, 2016 | RGPR NEWSWIRE
As many people turn to organic alternatives for their food and household cleaning items, they are discovering that there are more things that they can do to enhance green living. It’s no wonder that organic skincare products and organic makeup are hitting the mainstream in 2016.
There are more and more brands popping up. Small, artisan, green and independent brands are catalysing the movement of organic into the mainstream by not only giving consumers a greater choice in the marketplace, but also filling the gaps in the beauty industry. Be it in terms of price points or beauty solutions, these brands are finding their space and offering consumers a wide variety of choices.
A key indicator of just how well organic is performing is the fact that you can walk into almost any supermarket and buy a natural or organic beauty product, as well as department stores, hip fashion independents and multis, and even online stores aimed at young, trendy things. It’s safe to say that organic has made it.
Is this just a fad? We’d hazard a guess not. We believe we are seeing a paradigm shift from fast-paced technology-fuelled, fast-food, fast-living lifestyle to a more simplistic way of life. Even in the city, people are searching out their quiet, happy tranquil places and spaces, be it the great outdoors, a yoga mat or taking time to create.
Formula Botanica is a driving force behind this movement, for not only do they champion the use of natural and organic ingredients, they also give formulators all the necessary tools to go forth and create their own beauty business; the formulation knowledge is just a part of it.
They embrace the concepts of simplicity, skin foods and use the finest organic botanical extracts in formulations. Studying with Formula Botanica gives people the opportunity to run their own cosmetics business; the chance of a new start, a chance to address work/life balance and make their work something they love.
Formula Botanica encourage their students to be proud of preservation, and strongly encourage formulators to preserve all skincare products adequately. Thankfully this is now the law in most countries that have adequate cosmetic regulations, but there are still many formulators out there who believe that selling an unpreserved water-based cosmetic is better and healthier.
About Formula Botanica
Formula Botanica, the ODLQC accredited Online Organic Cosmetic Science School founded in 2012 with over 1500 students and graduates in 86 countries. Director of Formula Botanica Lorraine Dallmeier BSc (HONS) MSc MIEMA MRSB CEnv, a Biologist by training, developed a love of plants for cosmetic application after working in the field of environmental management for over a decade. Lorraine is a Chartered Environmentalist, as well as a full Member of the Royal Society of Biology, the Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.
Formula Botanica’s virtual HQ is located in the UK but they are an international Organic Cosmetic Science School with an international team of experts. There are 10 digital courses at present, 100% online, which students can study at their own pace in their own time. The courses teach everything you need to know in order to go from complete beginner to organic cosmetic formulator and teacher. Many graduates have used their courses to successfully launch or grow their own cosmetics business. They fly the flag for organic and natural skincare all over the world and are ambassadors for a healthier, safer way of life.
Lorraine Dallmeier of Formula Botanica is available for expert comment on beauty formulas, ingredients, both synthetic and natural, beauty and business advice. Business case studies and success stories are available for placement.
For all enquiries contact Rebecca Goodyear Health & Beauty:
+44 (0) 20 3 651 7360
hi@rebeccagoodyear.com
by rebecca | Jan 18, 2016 | RGPR NEWSWIRE
Rebecca Goodyear PR Appointed to Represent Formula Botanica – The Online Organic Cosmetic Science School
RGPR is delighted to announce their appointment to represent Formula Botanica, the , ODLQC accredited Online Organic Cosmetic Science School founded in 2012 with over 1500 students and graduates in 86 countries.
Director of Formula Botanica Lorraine Dallmeier BSc (HONS) MSc MIEMA MRSB CEnv, a Biologist by training, developed a love of plants for cosmetic application after working in the field of environmental management for over a decade. Lorraine is a Chartered Environmentalist, as well as a full Member of the Royal Society of Biology, the Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.
Formula Botanica’s virtual HQ is located in the UK but they are an international Organic Cosmetic Science School with an international team of experts. There are 8 digital courses at present, 100% online, which students can study at their own pace in their own time. The courses teach everything you need to know in order to go from complete beginner to organic cosmetic formulator and teacher. Many graduates have used their courses to successfully launch or grow their own cosmetics business. They fly the flag for organic and natural skincare all over the world and are ambassadors for a healthier, safer way of life.
As more and more consumers turn their backs on synthetic products, Formula Botanica is empowering people across the world to – (i) make safe and healthy skincare products using natural and naturally-derived ingredients, (ii) embrace the concepts of simplicity and skinfood and (iii) use the finest organic botanical extracts in formulations.
It’s new year, and many people will no doubt be questioning their own career and life choices. Studying with Formula Botanica gives people the opportunity to run their own cosmetics business; the chance of a new start, a chance to address work/life balance and make their work something they love.
*ENDS*
Lorraine Dallmeier is available for expert comment on beauty formulas, ingredients, both synthetic and natural, beauty and business advice.
Business case studies and success stories are available for placement.
For all enquiries contact Rebecca Goodyear Health & Beauty:
me@rebeccagoodyear.com.
