You know the feeling. That tingly, prickly sensation you get after applying a skincare product. Reminds me of the days of Sea Breeze! Many people assume that this reaction means that the product is working but that's not necessarily the case.

Products such as chemical exfoliators can tingle for a good reason. Chemical exfoliators may include Alpha Hydroxy Acids (lactic acid, glycolic acid) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (salicylic acid). These acids will usually cause a reaction when they absorb into your skin. These acids have a pH about 3-4 and your skin has a pH of about 5.5 (1 = very acidic, 7 = neutral, 14 = very alkaline) and this causes the skin to become temporarily unbalanced. Applying a lotion or face oil afterward will help rebalance your skin's pH.

Face masks containing menthol, peppermint or camphor can cause stinging. Avoid these if you have sensitive or dry skin.

Other ingredients that can cause tingling are alcohol, surfactants such as SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) and some preservatives. As well, your skin's barrier function may be weak which makes it susceptible to irritation and inflammation.

If the tingling is mild and doesn't last long then it's probably fine. If the tingling becomes stinging or burning, lasts a long time or causes redness or peeling, it's doing you more harm than good.

For more information see:
https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/ok-skincare-products-tingle
http://www.vivawoman.net/2010/08/is-a-tingling-sensation-on-the-skin-good-or-bad/

Thinking about a diffuser? There are so many options that it can be overwhelming. Which kind should you get? Which options do you need? How much should you spend?

You can spend $15 on a mini diffuser and $150+ on high end models, but I’ve found most of them fall in the $50-$90 range. Styles are endless too as they come in a variety of materials, colours and shapes.

You can get a basic one or you can get one with all the bells and whistles. Options can include different modes and light settings, timers, auto shut off, alarm clock and relaxing sounds. They can be powered by USB, electrical cords or rechargeable batteries. Most will hold 60-100ml of water and some even come with a remote control.

In order to decide which one is right for you, think about when and how you’re going to use it. Do you want it for your bedroom with some lavender to help you sleep? You might want relaxing sounds and maybe even an alarm clock. Will you run it during the day to energize you or lift your mood? Lights may or may not be necessary.

The optimum time to run a diffuser for therapeutic benefits is 30-45 minutes. If you have pets, be careful what oils you use; cats have adverse reactions to more essential oils than dogs. Run it in a secluded space or make sure there is plenty of air flow. 
 
Once you purchase one, don’t be surprised to find yourself wanting another one or two! My husband and I enjoy having one in many of our rooms so that we can use different oils depending on what we’re doing or the mood we're in. 

And if you don't want to look any further, I have two models available, both at $59.99, or build your own aromatherapy kit (see website for details).