The Issue of Benzene in Skincare: from acne products with benzoyl peroxide to certain sunscreens

Recent studies have confirmed alarmingly high levels of benzene—up to 17.5 times above permissible limits—in some popular personal care products, including acne treatments with benzoyl peroxide. Benzene, a known carcinogen, poses significant health risks, raising concerns about product contamination and ingredient degradation. Learn why consumers should demand stricter safety measures from the personal care industry and how the FDA is addressing these serious contamination issues.

Read More
Mineral Sunscreens vs. Korean Sunscreens: Which Offers Better Protection Against Pigmentation?"

When it comes to preventing pigmentation, not all sunscreens are created equal. Mineral sunscreens, known for their zinc oxide content, offer strong protection against long wave UVA and blue light—key culprits in skin discoloration. On the other hand, Korean sunscreens often use next-gen UV filters, but how do they compare when it comes to protecting against pigmentation? In this post, we examine six popular Korean sunscreens and compare them with a 25% zinc oxide formula to uncover which sunscreen offers the best defense against hyperpigmentation and oxidative stress.

Read More
Understanding chemical SPF Boosters and Sunscreen Doping: how are these hidden ingredients different to their chemical UV filter counterparts

Discover the truth behind SPF boosters like butyloctyl salicylate, tridecyl salicylate, polyester-8,

ethylhexyl methoxycrylene, and ethyl ferulate in sunscreens. These chemical analogs are increasingly found in both mineral and chemical sunscreens, often used to reduce the concentration of active UV filters like zinc oxide. Learn how these ingredients affect sunscreen performance and whether they compromise true all-mineral formulations.

Read More
How Menopause Affects Skin: Topical Skincare Solutions

Menopause and perimenopause can lead to significant changes in the skin, including dryness, loss of elasticity, and increased sensitivity. As hormone levels fluctuate, the skin may require special care to maintain its health and appearance. Topical skincare products, particularly those focused on hydration, barrier repair, and anti-aging, can play a crucial role in managing these changes. Topical estrogen is an emerging area of interest as well within the industry.

Read More
Why our Ava Isa Sunscreens are now EWG Verified.

Discover why Ava Isa Daily Facial Sunscreens are EWG Verified, the top third-party verification for product safety and brand transparency. Explore the rigorous EWG Verified process and why it ensures the highest standards for our all-mineral sunscreens.

Read More
Understanding SPF Boosters in Mineral Sunscreens: Unveiling the Truth Behind Zinc Oxide Concentrations

Have you ever wondered why some mineral sunscreens list 25% zinc oxide while others have just 2%? Our latest analysis dives deep into the role of SPF boosters in all-mineral sunscreens, exploring the surprising connection between zinc oxide concentration and SPF ratings. Discover how SPF boosters can influence sunscreen efficacy and what it means for your sun protection choices.

Read More
Do you have any products that are comparable to Beautycounter's? Some Beautycounter Skincare Swaps

We’ve gotten a flood of former Beautycounter customers asking what skincare swaps we could offer for some Beautycounter bestsellers. Turns out we do have some great skincare actives in common and we share a focus on curating the best in clean beauty skincare products. Check out our recommendations for best Beautycounter swaps.

Read More
Salicylate Safety in Pregnancy: what is a pregnant safe sunscreen?

Are salicylates in sunscreens like octisalate and butyloctyl salicylate safe in pregnancy? What are the best pregnancy safe sunscreens? Should you avoid mineral sunscreens that contain butyloctyl salicylate in pregnancy?

Read More
Best Face Sunscreen for Perioral Dermatitis

What's the best type of sunscreen to use for perioral dermatitis? What is it and what should you avoid in skincare and sunscreen ingredients? Which sunscreen is best for perioral dermatitis- mineral or ‘chemical’ sunscreens?

Read More
Has Tretinoin been discontinued in Canada? What are the best alternatives to tretinoin?

Are you a Canadian struggling to get prescription tretinoin? Shortages and product discontinuations have left many Canadians searching for a tretinoin alternative. We compare tretinoin to non-prescription forms including hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol, retinal, retinyl palmitate and bakuchiol. Which is the best form when we look at efficacy, tolerability and stability.

Read More
Is the FDA going to ban all 'chemical' sunscreens?

This article explores the ongoing debate surrounding the potential ban of chemical sunscreens by the FDA in the United States. It provides an overview of chemical sunscreen ingredients, the FDA's regulatory concerns regarding their safety and environmental impact, and proposed regulations aimed at improving sunscreen safety. While the FDA has not implemented a ban, it continues to review safety data and request additional information on specific ingredients. Alternatives such as mineral sunscreens are highlighted as safer options

Read More
The debate is over: Butyloctyl salicylate is octisalate and cannot be used in an 'all-mineral' sunscreen.

The proof is here. Butyloctyl salicylate is the ‘chemical’ UV filter Octisalate with minor modifications and cannot be used in sunscreens labelled as ‘all-mineral’. Learn more about safety issues including for pregnant women and young children.

Read More
Where can I buy Granactive Retinoid in Canada? Why was it discontinued?

Why is Granactive Retinoid not available in Canada? You may have been wondering this very question if you love Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate like we do. We’re happy to announce it is now allowed for sale in Canada as of December 2023. Learn all the details and how to shop to best and highest concentration of Granactive Retinoid in the industry.

Read More
4 Ways to Use Natrèceutique's Soothing Intensive Serum for Instant Hydration, Glowy Skin and to Reduce Facial Puffiness

Discover the transformative power of our Natrèceutique line's Soothing Intensive Serum, and its versatility beyond hydration as the perfect companion for facial massage. Particularly beneficial for those facing hormonal fluctuations or age-related concerns, our serum offers the ideal consistency for a soothing massage, promoting circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Read More
Navigating the Tretinoin Dilemma: A Guide to Gentle Alternatives and Skincare Balance

Discover a skincare revolution as influencers rethink Tretinoin. Uncover gentle alternatives like Bakuchiol and Hydroxpinacolone Retinoate, expert tips for mature skin, and a comprehensive routine beyond Vitamin A. Find your perfect balance with our clinical skincare solutions."

Read More
Guide: Pregnancy-approved skincare, expert tips about what skincare products to use for pregnancy related skin concerns

Got acne and pigmentation because you are pregnant? Find out how to address these prtions.egnancy related skin concerns safely. Go beyond generic advice like avoid ‘harsh chemicals’ and understand why we restrict some ingredients and say other ones are ok to use. Read for detailed instructions on ingredients and products to look for in tackling these common pregnancy related skincare conditions.

Read More
Guide to Using Retinol and Other Vitamin A Derivatives: Do you have to use them daily?

Retinol and other derivatives of vitamin A, are a powerful skincare ingredient with the potential to transform your skin. But how often should you use it? Is once a week enough, and do you have to use it forever once you start? Let's break it down.

Read More
Are Korean Sunscreens Better? Debunking the hype.

Are Korean Sunscreens Better than US ones? Debunking the hype with a detailed look at why it doesn’t make sense to judge a sunscreen simply by where it comes. A look at the impact of UV Filter availability, textures and aesthetics and consumer preferences for sunscreens.

Read More
Can Mineral Sunscreen Cause Acne? Debunking the Myths

Does mineral sunscreen cause acne? It’s the opposite. Mineral sunscreen can be beneficial for hormonal types of acne, teenage acne and even acne caused by rosacea. Learn more about how mineral sunscreens can help with acne.

Read More