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In a world where countless skincare products promise miraculous results, it's easy to get lost in a sea of chemical-laden concoctions.

The natural skincare trend is forecasted to grow. It's predicted the $9.75 billion industry is said to grow to above $14 billion worldwide.
The growing movement towards natural skincare is gaining momentum for all the right reasons. Natural skin care is more than just a passing trend—it's a holistic approach that nurtures your skin while safeguarding your overall well-being.
Why is natural skin care so important? By embracing the power of natural ingredients, you can unleash the true potential of your skin, revealing its natural radiance and vitality.
Unlike synthetic counterparts, natural skincare ingredients work in harmony with your body, gently nourishing and healing from within. Moreover, opting for a personalized skincare routine allows you to address your unique concerns and embrace the beautiful diversity of your skin.
In this comprehensive beginner's guide, we will explore the world of natural skin care, demystify common skincare myths, and provide you with a roadmap to building a personalized routine that caters to your individual needs. From understanding your type of skin to tackling specific concerns, this blog will empower you to embark on a transformative journey towards healthier, more radiant skin.

Understanding Your Skin Type: Sensitive Skin, Oily Skin, Acne Prone Skin

Your skin is a remarkable organ that requires proper care and attention.
To embark on a successful natural skincare journey, it is essential to understand your skin type and the specific concerns you may be dealing with. Let's delve into the intricacies of skin and common concerns, enabling you to make informed decisions for your skincare routine.

The Different Skin Types

Your skin type plays a crucial role in determining the products and ingredients that will work best for you. Here are the primary types of skin:
1. Oily Skin: Oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, resulting in a shiny complexion and potential breakouts.
2. Dry Skin: Dry skin lacks moisture and often feels tight, flaky, or rough. It may be prone to fine lines and dullness.
3. Combination Skin: Combination skin exhibits characteristics of both oily and dry skin. Typically, the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) is oilier, while the cheeks may be drier.
4. Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin is easily irritated, reactive, and prone to redness. It requires gentle, soothing ingredients to maintain balance.

Common Skin Concerns

Various concerns may arise during your natural skincare routine, regardless of your skin type. Understanding these concerns can help you target them effectively. Some common skin concerns include:
1. Acne: Acne can occur due to excess sebum production, clogged pores, or bacterial imbalances, leading to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
2. Aging: Aging skin experiences a decline in collagen and elasticity, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, dead skin cells and loss of firmness. As we age, we naturally shed dead skin cells at a slower rate and our skin becomes drier.
3. Hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of the skin that are darker or uneven in colour due to excessive melanin production.
Identifying Your Skin Structure
To identify your skin variety, observe how your skin behaves throughout the day.

● You probably have oily skin if it seems glossy all over.
● You probably have dry skin if it is flaky or scaly, feels tight, or both.
● If your T-zone is the sole area that shines, you most likely have mixed skin.
● You probably have normal skin if it feels moisturized, pleasant, and non-oily.
So which type are you? Pay attention to oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity. Consulting a dermatologist can also provide valuable insights about your skin type.
By gaining a thorough understanding of the type of skin you have, you can select appropriate natural skin care products and tailor your routine to address specific issues effectively. Empowered with this knowledge, you can now embark on the journey toward a healthier and more radiant complexion.

Basic Steps for Your Natural Skincare Routine Cleansing

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine and a crucial step in maintaining healthy skin.
By effectively removing dirt, impurities, and excess oil, you can pave the way for the optimal absorption of subsequent skincare products. When it comes to a natural skincare routine, choosing the right cleanser and adopting proper cleansing techniques are paramount.
1. Choosing a Gentle Natural Cleanser: Opt for a gentle natural cleanser that respects the delicate balance of your skin. Look for cleansers with plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or tea tree oil. These natural ingredients cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils, preventing dryness and irritation.
2. Proper Cleansing Techniques: To maximize the benefits of cleansing, use warm water to dampen your face before applying the cleanser. Warm water will help relax your face and open your pores, without being too harsh. Gently massage the cleanser onto your skin using circular motions, paying extra attention to areas prone to congestion or makeup residue. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can damage the skin's protective barrier.
3. Frequency of Cleansing: The frequency of cleansing depends on your skin type (oily skin, combination skin, etc.) and lifestyle factors. Generally, it is recommended to cleanse your face twice a day, in the morning and evening. However, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you may opt for a gentler cleansing routine, such as cleansing only once in the evening to avoid over-stripping the skin.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to cleansing. Stick to your routine and adjust it as needed based on your skin's response. Proper cleansing sets the stage for the subsequent steps in your natural skincare routine, allowing your skin to thrive and reveal its natural radiance.

Acne-Prone Skin: Here's What You Can Do

Acne can be a frustrating, irritating and confidence-denting skin concern.
Acne may be a problem due to having oily skin. Whatever the cause, you can effectively manage and improve your skin's appearance with the right approach. Natural remedies, ingredients, and proper techniques can make a significant difference in your journey to clearer, healthier skin.
Natural Remedies for Acne
Nature offers a treasure trove of remedies for acne.
Tea tree oil, with its antibacterial properties, can help reduce inflammation and fight acne-causing bacteria. Aloe vera possesses soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities, aiding in the healing of acne lesions. Witch hazel, a natural astringent, can help minimize pore size and control excess oil production.

Ingredients to Look for in Products

When selecting skincare products for acne-prone skin, seek out ingredients such as salicylic acid, which exfoliates and unclogs pores, and niacinamide, which reduces inflammation and regulates sebum production.
Beware of skin cloggers like coconut oil. Although it's a great moisturizer for those with dry or dull skin, coconut oil shouldn't be applied to your typical acne areas. If you are using coconut oil as a moisturizer, consider test patching first (on a small area of your skin) before using it everywhere.
Look for gentle, non-comedogenic formulas that won't further aggravate acne.
Additional Tips for Managing Acne
In addition to natural remedies and targeted ingredients, there are other practices to help manage acne.
● Avoid touching or picking at blemishes, as this can spread bacteria and cause scarring.
● Cleanse your skin gently, and avoid harsh scrubbing that may irritate and inflame
existing acne.
● Maintain a consistent skincare routine, and be patient—results take time.
Remember, addressing acne requires a holistic approach that includes not only external care but also lifestyle factors.

Ensure a balanced diet, manage stress levels, and get sufficient sleep to support overall skin health. With dedication and the right natural strategies, you can regain control over acne-prone skin and restore your confidence, wherever you go!

Additional Tips for a Natural Skin Care Routine Try Patch Testing New Products

Before incorporating a new product into your natural skincare routine, it's crucial to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of your skin and observe for any adverse reactions. This step helps identify potential allergies or sensitivities, ensuring that the product is compatible with your skin before widespread use.

Reading Ingredient Labels

When it comes to natural skincare, knowledge is power.
Take the time to read and understand the ingredient labels of your skincare products. Look for recognizable, plant-based natural ingredients, like aloe vera, avocado oil and other essential oils. Try to avoid harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and synthetic preservatives which cause skin irritation. Familiarize yourself with common irritants or allergens that may not align with your skin's needs.
Don't forget to check our primary ingredients for Aiona Alive skincare products.
Consistency and Patience in Skincare
Building a successful natural skincare routine requires consistency and patience.
Results may not be immediate, so be diligent in following your routine and give your skin time to adapt and respond positively to the products. Stick with it, even during moments when progress seems slow. Over time, you'll likely see the benefits and improvements.
Adjusting Your Routine as Needed
Remember that your skin is unique and ever-changing.
Be open to adjusting your natural skincare routine based on your skin's evolving needs. Factors like seasonal changes, hormonal fluctuations, or environmental influences can affect your skin.
Stay attuned to any changes or concerns, and modify your routine accordingly. Embracing flexibility ensures that your skincare regimen remains effective and tailored to your skin's current condition.

By patch testing, checking reviews, reading ingredient labels, practicing consistency, and adapting as needed, you can optimize your natural skincare routine. These additional tips will help you navigate the world of natural skincare with confidence and achieve the healthy, glowing complexion you desire.

Conclusion

Building a natural skincare routine is a transformative journey towards healthier, more radiant skin for a boost in confidence.
By understanding skin types and concerns, you can tailor your routine to address specific needs effectively. We explored the importance of natural ingredients, the steps for a basic routine, targeting specific skin concerns, and additional tips for success.
If you're ready to embark on your natural skin care journey, Aiona Skin Care offers a range of high-quality, natural products to support your goals.
From cleansers to moisturizers and serums, Aiona Skin Care combines the power of nature with science to provide effective solutions for your skin. Explore our product offerings and take the next step towards nourishing your skin naturally.
Your skin deserves the best, so let the journey begin!

 In recent years, ACV has been gaining popularity with skincare enthusiasts for its all-natural skin benefits and is often hailed as a wonder product. What’s all the hype about?

 What is ACV?

 ACV is a common abbreviation for apple cider vinegar, a common liquid household ingredient that’s been used in cooking and cleaning for centuries. It’s often incorporated into things like salad dressings, sparkling drinks, marinades, homemade disinfectants and cleaning solutions, but this everyday ingredient has several little-known alternative uses in the realm of natural skincare.

 Apple cider vinegar is typically made with three incredibly rudimentary, all-natural ingredients: apples, yeast, and water. To make it, apples are chopped and combined with yeast and then covered with water to ferment. The fermentation process is where the magic happens—the yeast breaks down the natural sugars found in the apples to create ethanol, and then bacteria converts the ethanol into an acidic solution.

 You will often notice the “mother”, a byproduct of fermentation, hanging out near the bottom of a container of apple cider vinegar. This is completely natural and doesn’t need to be discarded, as it’s part of the live culture of your vinegar. However, if it does bother you, you can strain it out with a fine mesh strainer or a coffee filter.

 You can easily find ACV in its simplest form in your local grocery store, and it’s often kept near the salad dressings with other vinegars and oils. Many natural skincare brands also use it as an ingredient in cleansers, toners, masks, and other products.

 Is ACV Good For Skin?

 Natural skincare junkies, holistic estheticians and dermatologists alike will attest that yes, ACV is good for your skin — in the right amounts and used at the right frequency. Just like many other skincare ingredients, there are appropriate times to use ACV and it’s possible to overuse the ingredient in your routine. As long as you watch for reactions and monitor your skin for unwanted results, ACV is perfectly safe to use on almost all skin types, oily and acne-prone skin included!

 Apple cider vinegar offers a range of skin benefits, is fairly inexpensive and easy to source, and can be incorporated into your skincare routine in a whole host of ways. Plus, the vinegar in its simplest form is 100% natural and contains no fillers or preservatives, so you don’t have to worry about questionable extras sneaking their way onto your skin.

 Benefits of ACV

 Apple cider vinegar offers a range of benefits and can be an asset to almost every skin type. When used correctly, ACV can fight acne-causing bacteria, balance the skin’s surface PH levels, prevent skin infections and other conditions, and exfoliate the skin to reveal a smooth, bright, even complexion free of blemishes.

 PH Balancing

 Balancing your skin’s PH is crucial to maintaining proper skin functions like regulating oil production and promoting a healthy microbiome. Apple cider vinegar is acidic, and when diluted can help balance the surface PH of your skin.

 Prevents Infections

 A natural byproduct of the fermentation process is the acetic acid found in ACV, which gives the vinegar antibacterial properties and can help prevent infections and treat certain skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. Because it helps to clear bacteria from the skin, it can also help with acne.

 Natural Exfoliant

 Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid, a naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid (also known as an AHA) that gently dissolves dead skin and debris when applied topically. Using ACV as an exfoliant 2-3 times a week can help even skin pigmentation, unclog pores, and brighten your overall complexion.

 Combats Acne

 The combination of the vinegar’s natural antibacterial properties, exfoliating properties, and PH balancing effects work together to unclog pores and eliminate acne-causing bacteria. The result? Dissolved blackheads, potentially reduced pore size, regulated oil production, and fewer breakouts.

 How to Use ACV for Your Skin

 Apple cider vinegar is unbelievably easy to incorporate into your skincare routine in a number of ways, but there are a few things to keep in mind no matter which route you take.

 First, know your skin type and any special skin conditions you have that may be irritated by vinegar. If you have especially sensitive skin, very dry skin or skin that is easily irritated, consult your dermatologist before using ACV to ensure it doesn’t make your condition worse or cause a reaction.

 Secondly, no matter what type of skin you have, you should always do a patch test to make sure you don’t react poorly before diving into regular use. Apply diluted ACV to an inconspicuous area and wait an hour to monitor your skin for signs of irritation.

 Lastly, always, always, always dilute your ACV! Apple cider vinegar is very acidic when fully concentrated, so follow the specific instructions for whatever application you are using it for and dilute accordingly with water, cleanser, oil, etc. It’s safe to use 2-4 times per week, but you may have to adjust accordingly to your skin’s needs.

 Here are 5 different ideas on how to use ACV in your skincare routine:

 Swipe on diluted ACV with a cotton pad as a toner after cleansing.

1. Add 1-2 cups to a bath and soak for softer skin.
2. Use diluted ACV as a mixing medium for clay masks or other powdered treatments and apply to your whole face (avoiding your eyes and mouth as you usually would when masking) or stick to problem areas for a spot treatment.
3. Clean your makeup brushes! Add 1-2 tablespoons of ACV to one cup of warm water and let brushes soak bristle-side down for a few minutes before gently scrubbing to remove build up and debris.
4. Use diluted apple cider vinegar post-shave to soften skin and prevent ingrown hairs!

 ACV is also beneficial for your health! When ingested, ACV has been shown in studies to be effective in helping manage blood sugar, assisting in weight loss, and can also help improve cardiovascular health. Consult your physician to discuss managing your health with apple cider vinegar.

 Possible Side Effects

 Just like with other skin care ingredients, no matter how natural they are, it’s possible your skin could disagree with using apple cider vinegar in your routine. Be vigilant for redness, irritation, dryness, flaking, or other signs that your skin is reacting poorly to the acidic properties of ACV. You may try diluting it further to lessen harsh effects or discontinue use altogether to give your skin some time to recuperate.

The Indulgent Mom: Aiona Alive E-ternal Leave On Mask w/ Gold Collagen for All Skin Types

A photo by @kristyntysire shared by Aiona Alive (@aionaalive) on March 1, 2017.

This momma knows what’s good when it comes to the latest and greatest in skin care. She has her regime but is always searching for something better. For this mom, we recommend Aiona Alive E-ternal Leave On Mask w/ Gold Collagen for All Skin Types (or you could opt for the entire 4-Step System). Aiona Alive uses live collagen which has skin healing properties."

Republished with permission from blog.thinkdirtyapp.com

May is fast approaching and we are excited for a special day — Mother’s Day! It’s just one day of the year to show the moms in our lives some extra love and appreciation. Keep reading for some ideas on how to spend the day with your mom!

1. Spa weekend getaway



Treat mom to a weekend getaway for just the two of you. There are a million ways to indulge whether you’re going for mud masks or massages, the options are endless!

2. Breakfast in bed



Remember the days when our parents made breakfast before sending us off to school? Return the favor and make mom a breakfast to enjoy in bed. You’ll need: a tray, some fruits, homemade meal of your choice and a whole lot of love!


3. Go for a walk



You know what they say, “April showers bring May flowers”. Take some time out of your busy life to appreciate the newly blossoming flowers and fresh green grass that spring has brought with the #1 lady in your life. According to Huffington Post,  taking walks in nature can help lift your mood and promote mental health!

Get started on your Mother’s Day shopping early! We recommend the Aiona Alive 4 Step All Skin Set for mom to pamper herself at home every day. Our four step regime includes a serum, cleanser, moisturizer and mask made with collagen and potent all-natural ingredients.  

Valentine’s Day is today! While you are planning your meal for this special occasion, we have come up with this list of Valentine’s Day themed foods to eat that your skin will love.

1. Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate, and chocolate dipped strawberries are a Valentine’s Day essential. Strawberries also happen to be rich in vitamin C, which helps with collagen production. This sweet berry has many nutritional benefits that you need to know about. Dip them in dark chocolate and there’s a bonus. According to mensfitness.com, dark chocolate has properties that can actually protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Now you can indulge without (too much) guilt!

2. Raw Oysters

Frequently recognized as an aphrodisiac, oysters make the perfect sensual meal for the occasion. Oysters are high in protein, a building block of collagen. Oysters are known to contain many vitamins also beneficial for health. This shellfish will be sure to set the mood while treating your skin.

3. Grass Fed Beef Steak

Steak is definitely a staple for date night, and a likely meal for most Valentine’s Day meals. Like oysters, beef steaks contain a large amount of protein. An article on Prevention.com tells us that the grass fed variety in particular has a higher ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, which helps with inflammation. Be sure to include grass fed beef stake in your Valentine’s Day menu for many great health benefits.

3 Reasons to Avoid Microbeads

Microbeads, in a nutshell, are tiny pieces of plastic that are found in personal care products ranging from body wash to toothpaste. They are added to these products to create an exfoliating effect, but the consequences don’t stop there.

1. Microbeads are extremely bad for the environment.

According to this Forbes article, these tiny beads are non-biodegradable and proven to contain many polluting chemicals— meaning that they will just sit at the bottom of the ocean forever while possibly releasing toxic chemicals. They are also damaging to the marine life as fish often mistaken it for food.

2. It can cause breakage in skin.

Our skin is more sensitive than you think! Daily or overuse of scrubs and washes containing microbeads can cause breakage in the skin. Exfoliating the skin, often in general, is too abrasive— breakage in the skin can allow for bacteria to enter!

3. There is no real benefit for your skin.

Lastly, the main reason you should stop using products with microbeads is because there’s only so much exfoliating can do. Light exfoliating with a cloth can perform the same task of removing dead skin cells from your skin without harming it. If you’re looking to brighten up your complexion, you are better off with looking to other options in skin care.

If it isn’t obvious by now, the best thing to do is stop purchasing microbead products and it’s especially important to stop washing them down our drains and into the ecosystem. Instead, use tools like a konjac sponge to remove dead skin or use a natural exfoliant like our E-Citrus Cleanser.