Tattoo artists take pride in what they do. In order to create their artwork at the highest of quality, they are constantly looking for the best equipment available on the market. However, many artists make the fatal mistake of spending their entire investments on quality tattoo machines and needles while skipping the importance of what is required to power their machines. That is where the Tattcom ESCx comes in.

Officially launched in 2018, Tattcom released their leading compact tattoo power supply with Bluetooth® features and an impressive 86-watt motor driver that starts even the toughest machines. During a recent interview with T&A Tattoo Technology Company co-founder, Aaron Williams, we’ve got the inside scoop on their latest power tool that’s soon to sell on the U.S. market. After all, the right power supply is just as important as the transfer paper, needles, and its machine that keeps the unit running at a peak state.

View this post on Instagram

A peak of the touch-less and voice control features for the ESCx power supply. Our app supports android and iOS devices! Tag someone who needs this! Follow us for news on when and where to get the ESCx, coming very soon! #tattoo#tattoos#tattooing#tattooist#tattooer#tattooartist#tattooshop#tattooequipment#tattoomachine#rotarytattoomachine#tattoopowersupply#tattoosofinstagram#tattoomachineporn#tattoocompany#tattoocommunity#tattcom

A post shared by TATTCOM Offical (@tattcom) on May 14, 2019 at 10:19am PDT

Upcoming Release in July

With Tattcom’s recent suspension of sales online, the company is currently focusing on the U.S. market. Tattcom aims to promote the ESCx at international conventions, including the previous Philadelphia Tattoo Expo in February and the next upcoming LA Tattoo convention in August 2019. According to Aaron, over 100 units will be ready by July 2019. In addition, Tattcom has mentioned future plans on global shipping by early 2020.

How Much Will Tattcom’s ESCx Cost?

With the competition of tattoo power supplies ranging anywhere between $100 – $600, the ESCx is currently retailed at $499.99 and rechargeable wireless Bluetooth® foot pedal set at $199.

No matter what technological advances occur in the near future, the technique and style of the artist will always be the client’s top requirement when getting their new ink. And of course, we’re always excited to see and test out the latest tattoo innovations the company has planned for years to come. With that, the future of Tattcom has a lot of promise to offer.

Thanks Aaron for taking the time to let us in on what Tattcom has next in store for artists worldwide.

For many beauty enthusiasts, makeup is an everyday essential used to enhance our appearance. As such, both women and men love to invest in high-quality brands, ranging from $30 – $400+. However, with the price of makeup steadily increasing, counterfeit products are on the rise. Reports show that the counterfeit market was valued over $460 billion in 2013, according to the OECD. This included 63.2% of replica makeup, such as MAC imitations from China.

But despite the major savings that replica products can offer, getting the best price is rarely the best deal – for either your wallet or your health. In fact, using knock-off makeup is extremely harmful to your skin.

Knowing the Dangers

The cost of health risks that come with counterfeit makeup are never worth the amount you saved. Buyers across the globe have reported symptoms from using fake makeup, including allergic reactions, skin rashes, eye infections, swollen lips, and chemical burns. Counterfeit makeup also has an alarming number of infection-causing bacteria that can lead to burning, scarring, and even disfigurement. In worst cases, the toxic ingredients found in counterfeit makeup have caused long-term health issues such as infertility and high blood pressure.

The National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Center tested counterfeit beauty products and found traces of mercury, copper, lead, bacteria, and even pest waste – all of which can wreak havoc on our health. To reduce the risks of health dangers, all cosmetic manufacturers are required to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).

Read Between the Labels

Research is key. Low-quality replicas offer a cheaper formula, making it the most obvious sign of a counterfeit product. Fake lipsticks, eye shadows, and powders typically have a thinner or chalkier consistency than the authentic counterparts. Not to mention, the packaging will be somewhat off in font, color, and size.

While the basis of retail shopping is to buy from the brand’s licensed retailer, a great sale can be hard to resist. However, if the item costs more than 50% of the original retail price, it might be too good to be true. Most brands will regulate pricing on their products, meaning that $5 Benefit mascara is likely a counterfeit. In addition, fake brands are often sold in bulk deals.

Compare the Packaging

Counterfeit products will usually have misspelled words, inconsistent patterns, and uneven fonts. Their products will have incorrect shade names printed, so make sure to do your research and cross-check the item with the official website. One way to check its authenticity is if the product features a “peel-to-reveal’ sticker, which can be peeled back to reveal the ingredient list. Unless they’re unscented, authentic products will also have a signature fragrance, such as the vanilla scent of MAC or the floral aroma of Estee Lauder. If the item has a strong chemical odor, it’s most likely fake.

Finding Better, Safer Alternatives

If your budget is limited, there is nothing wrong with being practical in terms of choosing mid-range makeup products. There are plenty of drugstore brands that offer great swatches at a lower price range. In fact, makeup artists and beauty bloggers agree that drugstore brands often provide the same quality that you would expect from higher-end brands.

Keep in mind, some third-party sites are given the authorization to sell exclusive brands, but if the listing seems unusual (such as the package is different or the price is low), go with your gut and purchase your makeup product elsewhere. Look to department or specialty stores for brand name items or purchase directly from the brand’s official website.

For the spring/summer 2019 makeup trend, beauty enthusiasts focus on clean, ethereal beauty with a hint of an unusual element. This means everything from watercolor shades to wild graphic liners, and bitten-looking lips. Most of all, foundation is out for this season, with a strong preference for glowing, nude skin.

While the overall vibe of this spring was gentle and restrained, there is an exception to the artistic use of color, with minor regards to sophisticated techniques and clean-cut lines. For the SS19 runways, makeup trends were primarily seen in the form of pastels and glitter. Not to mention the pop for boldness to awaken the spring season.

Clean, Glowing Skin

Skip the heavy liquids and keep the skin free of foundation. Superstar artists like Val Garland, Pat McGrath, and Lisa Eldridge kept their runways foundation-free and opted to use just a touch of concealer only on spots deemed necessary. The best take on clean, radiant skin was at Stella McCartney, where just a touch of mascara and a dab of highlight simmer was needed to bring out the models’ natural look. Aim for soft highlighted cheekbones, but not with power highlighters. Instead, makeup artists prefer a touch of cream or liquid luminizer for a natural sheer.

Bold-Colored Lips

As beauty gurus are stemming away from foundation, the limit to how many shades you rock on your pout does not exist this season. Bold lip colors will range from bright to dark, unexpected shades. From hot pinks and coral to navy blue and purple lips, there’s no limit to the bold lip trend.

Bitten Lips

One way to rock the bold lip is to try out the “bitten” look. This technique uses a bold color in the center of the lips and is then “buffed out,” resulting in a diffused look. Simply dab a small amount of bold color in the center and blend outwards towards the corners.

Big Brows

This season is all about Cara Delevingne vibes with huge, fluffy brows. With the small use of eyebrow powder and a dose of mascara, big brows can be achieved with a natural look. Keep well-groomed brows brushed upwards in a feathery soft appearance.

Bright Wings

Winged eyeliner is another trend that’s taken flight as makeup artists play around with the concept to create colorful eye makeup looks. For Pat McGrath’s jewel-toned wings at Versace, metallic green eye shadow was used. McGrath took inspiration from the birds’ motif and drew wing-like eye shadow shapes around the eyes, using jewels or glittery shades.

Watercolor Shades

Another artistic trend to this colorful season is the watercolor effect that was used to create a messy yet gorgeous makeup look for the spring/summer runways. Anne Sui embraced the sunset-inspired shades with warm yellows applied from the crease up to the hairline, covering the forehead. The pink was applied to the front of the brows and again below the eyes to the cheekbones.

Go Clumpy or None At All

Clumpy mascara is one of the grunge SS19 makeup trends as the Twiggy-inspired look was embraced on the runways of Prada and Chanel. Paired with clean skin and lightly applied pink lipsticks, mascara was applied thick, messy, and clumpy to both lashes then rolled over the lid in faded lines.

If clumpy isn’t your style, the no-makeup trend also means no mascara. At Giambattista Valli, Val Garland skipped the mascara altogether and opted for the same tactic at Balmain and Isabel Marant. Instead, models wore pastel eye shadows to stand out.

From pastel lashes to bold purple lips, there’s definitely no shortage of trending colors to choose from this spring.

Beauty enthusiasts claim that cannabis is said to be the next big contender in skincare. Thanks to the widespread use in health and wellness industries, cannabis is also becoming a growing trend in the beauty world. Thus, it is no wonder why celebrities including Mandy Moore and Dakota Johnson endorse the ultra-versatile CBD oil, as it helps individuals with a variety of beauty and health challenges like moisturizing dry skin, staying calm while traveling and relieving aches and pains.

With the increasing trend of organic products like Himalayan salt soap taking the market by storm, cannabis beauty products are also being seen in the form of shampoos, lotions, lip butter, creams, serums, and even brow gel. In fact, well-known department stores, such as Sephora, are showing a major interest in this herbal product line and are stocking their stores for today’s intrigued customers.

CBD Making Its Way to Sephora

CBD beauty products continue to find their way onto the shelves of high-end retail stores, including Barneys and Neiman Marcus. Earlier this week, Sephora curated an in-store section for hemp-oriented products featuring their established brands. In addition, reports have claimed the uprising trend in cannabis beauty from retailers since earlier this year, according to Piper Jaffray’s senior research analyst.

Reports by Piper Jaffray also claim that the CBD industry itself is worth between $50 to $100 billion. Brands such as Estee Lauder, Ulta Beauty, and e.l.f. Beauty has also been taking serious interest in cannabis. Not to mention, CBD-infused skincare and beauty products that were once viewed as a subcategory under the natural beauty market place are now being elevated toward its own category in itself. As a result, the herbal ingredient is expected to stimulate even more growth in the beauty market within the next few years.

The Science of Cannabis

Recently legalized for its medicinal use in the UK, CBD is hailed as a ‘miracle molecule’. Extracted from the leaves and flowering buds, the cannabis plant offers a light yellow oil with a mild nutty flavor and a natural, grassy smell. In 1998, the National Academy of Sciences published a study that found CBD oil contains many benefits and can repair damage from free radicals, such as environmental pollutants and UV rays.

Today, the science community is focusing its energy on this plant’s natural healing abilities in addition to age-defying and potent medicinal properties. However, marijuana and CBD are not actually the same thing. Unlike THC, CBD isn’t psychoactive. The difference is the element of behavioral changes found in marijuana, while CBD is a legal extract without mind-altering side effects.

What does Cannabis actually do?

Cannabis is ideal for irritated or sensitive skin. It provides an excellent solution for calming chronic skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as regulating oily complexions. As a highly ‘sebostatic’ substance, CBD helps regulate the sebum synthesis, resulting in fewer blackheads, pimples, and blemishes. The oil can be consumed by mixing a few drops into beverages or directly dispensed underneath the tongue. Furthermore, CBD can be applied topically to help aid in stressed skin, boost a youthful appearance, and enhance the skin’s exterior layer.

As more established beauty brands begin to experiment with hemp seed oil and infused products, consumers expect to see the rise of brands become involved with CBD in skincare and beauty products. Not to mention, users praise this herbal ingredient for protecting the body against the damages of aging and stress.

Known as one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, Debra Messing has been gracing our television sets with her presence for decades. In fact, starring on a new TV show, raising a family, and participating in philanthropy is all in a day’s work. Not to mention, Debra is partnered with Curél and Direct Relief USA to distribute comfort and hygiene necessities to homeless families all over New York City.

As a working mom, Messing certainly has a lot on her plate, which leaves us to wonder: How does she maintain her amazing skin? After all, winters in New York can leave you with seriously dry skin to that lasts until spring. According to the actress who’s turning 51 in August, a simple routine is all it takes for her youthful glow.

Starting Fresh with Double Cleanse

When she’s not getting all made up to shoot “The Mysteries of Laura,” Debra goes au natural off the scene. According to the Will & Grace actress, she starts with a double cleanse of Vitamin C Face Wash by Joanna Vargas, followed by iS Clinical Cleansing Complex.

“I just use a gentle cleanser and no makeup unless I go out, then I’ll grab a tinted moisturizer.” She claims to rotate each wash based on her daily needs. Not to mention, both products work great for sensitive skin.

Keeping Routine to A Minimum

“Drinking a ton of water, eating clean, getting enough sleep, and making time for wellness,” she says is key to maintaining her healthy skin.

So far, it sounds achievable – sleeping and drinking water is a must for everyone. But during a recent interview, Debra opened up about the not-so-secret weapons use in her battle to defeat aging: her skincare routine.

Layers of Essences

One of the main staples of any Korean beauty routine is to layer difference essences followed by a toner. After Debra completes her cleanse, she reaches for a face mist from Korean brand, AmorePacfiic.

She is known to use serums like Niod Copper Amino Acid to even out her skin tone and follow with moisturizer. But like many beauty enthusiasts, Messing just doesn’t stick to one.

Instead, she rotates through a variety of creams including the Joanna Vargas’ Daily Hydrating Cream, Augustinus Bader Cream, and the Amorepacific Time Response Skin Renewal Cream.

Get A Facial

For a truly pampering experience, Messing gets regular facials with Joanna Vargas. With Joanna’s Vitamin C serum and professional facial treatment,it helps keep her sensitive complexion looking radiant and ready for the red carpet. In addition, Debra keeps hydrating facial masks with her at all times.

Grab the Ice Tray

One last tip Debra gives us is to reach for the ice tray every morning. “You add ice cubes in a bowl and fill it up with water and witch hazel. Let it sit until it gets freezing cold, then put a washcloth in it and place it on your face. The witch hazel and ice water will wake you up, bringing all the blood to the skin and tighten up the pores.”

While Debra admits there are expectations about looking a certain way in Hollywood, keeping herself healthy is what matters. After all, she believes that skin care is vital to the busy lifestyle that requires her to wear a ton of makeup on the scene.

For most women, pregnancy doesn’t always come with the “new mom glow.” In fact, 50% of women experience acne during their pregnancy. Your body undergoes certain changes due to the fluctuating hormones as the oil glands in the face may produce more sebum than usual. So, how can adult acne during pregnancy be prevented?

In addition to a clean diet, refraining from toxic chemicals at home and on your skin can help reduce the negative effects of pregnancy and potential health risks. Here you will learn how to treat acne and prevent the onset of blemishes with just a few natural ingredients.

Lemon Concentrate

Lemons contain citric acid, which acts as an antiseptic since bacteria is less able to adjust to acidic environments. Due to the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, the vitamin P and phytoncides prevent bacterial growth while the L-ascorbic acid shrinks the skin pores to dry out acne instantly. Keep in mind; the citric acid works as a chemical exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and oil that clogs the pores. Be sure to minimize the use of lemon juice to no more than one a week to prevent harsh skin damage and sensitivity.

How to Use:

Thoroughly cleanse your face with soap and water. Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice to the affected areas and leave overnight. If you have sensitive skin, dilute the lemon juice with water and apply moisturizer after each application.

Curcumin in Turmeric

The curcumin found in turmeric is non-toxic, making it a power ingredient to help treat skin disorders such as acne, warts, and rashes. The chemo-protective properties are also used to prevent skin cancer as studies show that curcumin reduces wound healing when applied topically or taken internally, based on the Cancer Research and Treatment Organization.

How to Use:

Mix ½ teaspoon of pure turmeric powder with mint juice, nutmeg, and basil juice to create a paste. Apply on the affected area and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the area with water and repeat daily until healed.

Tea Tree Oil

Essential oils like tea tree oil can help you fight nearly all skin issues during pregnancy. The antibacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties create an effective remedy for skin complications, especially acne that may appear by the early first trimester. In fact, tea tree oil can help balance oil production and unclog the skin’s sebaceous glands. Just be sure to dilute tea tree oil to reduce the potential risks of allergies.

How to Use:

Apply a few drops of oil to the affected area or blemish using a clean cotton ball. You can apply it overnight for best results.

Baking Soda

Known for its exfoliating properties, baking soda can dry out the skin by removing trapped oil and dead skin cells. It cleans the pores and prevents potential breakouts in the future. Not to mention, baking soda encourages collagen production, balances the skin’s pH levels and prevents bacterial growth.

How to Use:

Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda and oil into a paste. Apply the mixture on the scars and lightly massage for about 5 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water and follow the process regularly to achieve the desired results.

With a balanced diet and exercise, you can reduce the effects and even prevent the risks of acne during your pregnancy. Be sure to include cooked fish, fruits, vegetables, and probiotics into your diet plan. In addition, listen to your body and how it feels. Always practice a healthy sleep schedule and include meditation into your daily routine for a stress-free, acne-free pregnancy.

Discovered in the Himalayan mountain region, a pretty pink-hued salt is said to be the purest form of salt to ever exist. Pink Himalayan salts are found across the Himalayas, reaching from India to China, and popularly used for its medicinal benefits. This is because the ancient sea beds found in the Himalayan Mountains were once covered by lava and crystallized over 250 million years ago.

The unique pink hue is derived from its elements that include calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium – all of which are essential to the human body. Not to mention, Himalayan salt crystals contain minerals that are tiny enough for the skin to absorb while providing amazing benefits to the body and mind. So what exactly are the benefits of Himalayan salt soap for skincare?

Wonders of Pink Himalayan Salt

Let’s face it, not all of us are blessed with perfect skin, but there are ways to improve it. Himalayan salt soap usually contains the crystal rock salt that is mined exclusively at the foot of the region. With all the extra minerals, it contains 84 minerals and elements that include copper, iron, magnesium, and more. It is renowned for its benefits including the following:

• Balancing the pH of the skin
• Treating signs of acne
• Provides the body with minerals
• Regulates blood sugar
• Cleanses the sinuses
• Boosts brain power
• Improves circulation and effects on our blood system

Reduces Oily Skin

This pink salt is known to combat sebum, which aids in getting rid of greasy skin. As an added bonus, Himalayan salt soap can disinfect the pores and cleanse the skin to prevent oil buildup. When used regularly, the natural salt soap reduces shine and oil on the face, giving you clean, bright skin.

Boosts in Rejuvenation

Thanks to the rejuvenating effect, Himalayan salt soap can make your skin look fresher, younger, and brighter. That is because it helps rid of wrinkles and fine lines by using this salt in the form of brine. Not to mention, this rejuvenating salt can reduce the harsh effects of tanning and dark spots caused by the sun.

Prevents Body Odor

Having a bad body odor is not only embarrassing in public but also unhygienic. However, recent studies show that commercial antiperspirants aren’t actually helping the cause either. In fact, some are found to be a possible cause of breast cancer, according to the Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry. Salt soap can absorb sweet, mask bad odors, and even aid in total body detox.

Aids in Psoriasis

Widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, Himalayan salt helps boost psoriasis healing. As a distressing disease known for its genetic cause and high prevalence, psoriasis affects the skin and joints with red scaly patches and itch. With the help of Himalayan salt soap, its anti-inflammatory properties can control such lesions caused by the condition.

Treats Signs of Acne

Caused by an increase of sebum secretion, acne is a skin condition that varies from person to person. It includes the formations of whiteheads, blackheads, and pustules that can result in scars. However, the right routine with Himalayan salt soap allows users can upgrade their skincare maintenance. Use a DIY mask that contains Himalayan salt, honey, and essential oils to help treat acne. The detoxifying effects will help remove dead skin and oils, the main culprits of acne.

Healing From Insect Bites

Due to its antiseptic properties, Himalayan salt soap can be used to clean insect bites and wounds. This will help prevent further infection and ensure a smooth healing process. In addition, pink salt soap provides relief for the discomfort of bites as it soothes the itch and inflammation with a simple soak.

Cautions Never to Ignore

When using Himalayan salt soap on your body, it is important to know that facial skin is thinner, making it more sensitive than the rest of the body. While the salt is non-allergenic, some may have a negative reaction to it. Thus, be sure to do a simple test patch by using the product on one area of the body. After 12-48 hours, monitor the area to see if there are any swelling, redness, rash, or itching.

Just like other natural products sold on the market, don’t be fooled by the labels. Most products use natural or organic in their names as marketing schemes. Be sure to look at their ingredients list and choose products that are made of “all natural” ingredients.

Going through life transitions can be frightening, like when you start a family, began a business, or even reach retirement. It is a bittersweet goodbye and an exciting hello to a new beginning. Menopause is one of those changes. During menopause, the drop in estrogen levels causes a reduction in collagen and elastin in the skin. In fact, 30% of the collagen is lost within the first 5 years, according to The American Journal of Pathology.

As modern women are embracing each new stage that life brings, one study showed that 81% of women between 40 – 45 years old were positive about the changes, while only 38% had realistic expectations about what menopause entails – especially on our skin.

Menopause and your skin

Menopause is a natural, but complex process that women experience during their later years. It affects the entire body, both internally and externally, leaving an impact on the skin. The hormonal changes that happen during menopause deplete the skin’s resources. As women get closer to menopause, their skin can weaken and result in early fine lines and wrinkles.

Such changes include:

In a nutshell, skin dries, sags, and thins as we age. Thus, making it more important to support hydration as oil glands are less active than they once were. The good news is that we have access to a variety of formulas that work towards a deeper level to restore our skin’s youth.

Preparing Your Skin for Menopause

The safest way to prepare your skin for the effects of menopause is to develop a routine that meets your current changes. This regimen should nourish and strengthen the skin at its deepest levels. In fact, you will want to promote the synthesis of collagen, maintain its active water content with humectants, and protect the skin from environmental factors like pollutants and UV rays. Not to mention, maintaining a consistency in your skincare routine.

Ingredients That Benefit Menopausal Skin

When it comes to skincare, substances like vitamin A can show powerful results but will work over time. Whether you have many years to prepare for menopause or are already feeling the effects, it’s all about self-care habits. In addition to proper maintenance, the ingredients you use will also play a powerful role in the appearance of your skin during menopause.

Hyaluronic acid

As a well-known power molecule that holds up to 1000x its weight in water, HA is the “most adaptable macromolecule present in the connective tissues.” Its unique ability to connect to water molecules means it pulls moisture and keeps it in the skin. This provides a healthy environment for cells to function at their best, according to studies by Advances in Food and Nutrition Research. As a result, HA can help calm inflammation and protect the skin from UV damage.

Colostrum

Contained with the same components found in mother’s milk, Colostrum is known for its ability to promote cell growth and regeneration while delivering vital immune factors. While this ingredient isn’t vegan-friendly, it is packed with the fats, antibodies, and proteins you need to protect the skin barrier and stimulate collagen production. In addition to vitamin A, probiotics, and peptides, be sure to use retinol facial oil to help combat signs of aging.

These all-natural ingredients are easily absorbed by the skin, leaving you with a dewy, glowing complexion. Be sure to understand the effects that are likely to occur from the changing hormone levels and adjust your skin care accordingly. That way, you can respond by protecting your skin with the best ingredients available on the market.

With our culture’s growing obsession with natural products and holistic treatments, one of the latest beauty trends is on the rise: Jade Rollers. Given that data from Pinterest’s 48 million skincare lovers reported that “derma roller’s” were pinned 345% more in 2017, there’s no denying that facial rollers are more than just a social media beauty trend.

We use jade to cleanse our water, aid in meditation, purify our auras, and if you’re Gwyneth Paltrow, place them inside your vagina. Not to mention, it’s innate calming effects have made it an instant hit among beauty gurus and celebrities, with the likes of the Kardashians. So, what exactly are jade rollers and what can they do for your skin?

Ancient Beauty Care

Since the 7th century, the Chinese royalty has used jade facial rollers as a method to close pores, smooth wrinkles, reduce inflammation, and reduce dark eye circles by massaging the skin. As part of ancient Chinese beauty rituals, jade is known for its metaphysical benefits and natural healing energy. Today, the traditional method is still being used in Gua sha treatments, where the skin is lightly scraped to promote regeneration and oxygenation. Not to mention, jade is a calming stone that is thought to help relieve any tension in the face.

What is a Jade roller?

A crystal facial roller is a hand-held beauty tool that has a rounded, polished jade crystal attached to one end, or two. The tool itself is intended to be swept across the face, mimicking the effects of a holistic lymphatic massage. With a long oval-shaped stone, the roller is used to massage the flats of your face such as the cheeks, forehead, and chin. Meanwhile, the smaller stone is used for the nose and under-eye areas.

Benefits of Facial Rollers

Dermatologists from Yale Medical School claim that rollers can treat inflammation due to its cooling sensation and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies also show that facial rollers can reduce puffiness around the eyes since they help decongest the fluid found in the lymphatic channels. The facial roller helps remove excess fluid under the eye, while the cool jade stone confines blood vessels to minimize swelling.

Now, here’s what jade rollers won’t do: clear acne outbreaks, increase collagen stimulation, or even enhance the penetration of skincare products. However, skin experts claim that rolling a cool stone can be relaxing, leading to improved skin conditions linked to stress, such as acne, rosacea, and psoriasis.

Embracing the Spiritual Side of Jade

If you’re into the spiritual side of crystals, you might be wondering what other stones can be used in facial rollers. Traditionally, the jade stone represents protection and healing as it is also said to promote peace, balance, and wisdom. You may also want to try an Amethyst or Rose Quartz roller as they provide the same contraction. Rose quartz is said to be the stone for love and inner healing, while skin gurus claim that it can help reduce the appearance of large pores.

Read to give jade rollers a try? The process is simple. Apply a few drops of serum, moisturizer, or facial oil to your skin and gently roll the jade upwards, across your face. Continue until the product is absorbed for maximum benefits.

Did you know that ancient sheep farmers were known to have soft, smooth hands, despite being outside all day? It turns out that it was all due to how they handle sheep. Used for its thick substance derived from sheep’s wool, Lanolin has not only gained a reputation for its moisturizing properties but also for its long-standing history with skincare products. With that, comes a ton of questions on whether this animal product is safe to use. Lanolin is a fantastic emollient that helps lock in moisture, but as with many ingredients in the skincare industry, it is processed.

In a modern world with the demand for safe and natural skincare options are at an all-time high, that leaves us to question: does Lanolin actually do more harm than good? A study in the British Journal of Dermatology claims that lanolin sensitization has an annual rate of 1.7% – lower than that for a 50% concentration. As a result, the amounts of lanolin used in skincare products, like body and facial moisturizers, make the risk in toxins insignificant. So, is lanolin a super ingredient or a toxin risk to our skin?

What is Lanolin?

Lanolin is the purified product that secretes from the sheep’s sebaceous glands. As a greasy yellow substance, this natural animal product is harvested from wool. Primarily consisting of long-chain waxy esters, it is also called wool grease or wool wax in skincare products. Used for skin treatment, protection, and cosmetic enhancements; unrefined lanolin has been used for centuries by various cultures.

Due to its high-fat content, lanolin prevents the evaporation of water from the skin, also known as transepidermal water loss. This is because its hydrophobic properties can help aid against irritation and infection as it helps seal in natural moisture in the skin. As a result, lanolin keeps the skin hydrated, which is needed to help speed up healing.

How Safe is Lanolin For Your Skin?

Generally, Lanolin is considered safe for healthy skin. If you are not allergic to wool or wool alcohols, adding lanolin in your skincare products is safe to use. However, occlusive products and ointments with lanolin that are made to heal skin may differ. Despite being a common ingredient used to help heal burns, scrapes, eczema, raw nipples, and post-procedure skin, allergies linked to lanolin is rapidly increasing.

For example, researchers discovered that patients with chronic wounds are 11% higher chance of reacting to lanolin, according to a 2017 study by AARHUS University. Not to mention, another recent study conducted of more than 1,000 children with eczema found that sixty-six percent of them had an allergic reaction to lanolin alcohol. As a result, Lanolin may not be what our skin needs when it is in the process of healing.

Common Side Effects of Lanolin

Lanolin is classified as “non-expectant to be toxic or harmful” and a “low-risk health priority.” Pesticides are removed during the modern purification process, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions caused by lanolin. However, livestock owners admit to “dipping” sheep wool into insecticides to prevent the onset of pests. This means pesticide residue in lanolin can accumulate in fat tissue and in the milk of breastfeeding women.

Those who are exposed to wool alcohol, the main component that is associated with allergies, may develop allergic contact dermatitis. In addition, swallowing products that contain lanolin can lead to poisoning.

Is Lanolin right for you?

Lanolin is a great addition to your skincare regime if you have dry skin. However, those with oily skin or prone to breakouts may not experience the same benefits to this animal product. There are many ingredients that can replace lanolin to prevent transepidermal water loss. Other options include mineral oil, paraffin, and petroleum jelly (Vaseline). All of which are hypoallergenic but also made from hydrocarbons of fossil fuels.

Unless you are prone to allergies, have very sensitive skin, or refuse to use any animal products, lanolin is a safe ingredient to use in your moisturizing regime. However, if you are looking for a more national option, consider trying organic beeswax, or plant-based ingredients like hydrogenated plant oils and vegetable wax.