Beautiful Skin – According to Science

Unlocking Your Skin's Potential: Natural, Vegan Skincare Backed by Science.

Here at Penny Price Aromatherapy, our philosophy is simple: deliver pure, natural, vegan skincare that truly works. We believe that harnessing the power of nature doesn't mean abandoning scientific understanding. In fact, it's where the magic truly happens! Over the course of this blog, we'll delve into the fascinating world of skin aging, explore the benefits of natural and vegan products, and uncover the potent plant actives (all vegan, of course!) that science has proven can help your skin look its absolute best.

But before we dive into the solutions, let's lay the groundwork with a little skin science 101.

Understanding Your Incredible Skin

The skin is far more than just a covering; it's a vital organ, essential for life and overall well-being. As the largest organ in the body, its structure is incredibly complex, which explains why so many skin conditions remain a mystery. As aromatherapists, we understand the delicate balance of the skin and the importance of treating it with the utmost care. For instance, while tiny amounts of essential oils can soothe conditions like eczema, too much can, unfortunately exacerbate the problem.

Skin Structure and Essential Oils: A Powerful Partnership

One of the remarkable aspects of essential oils is their ability to penetrate human skin. This is primarily due to their tiny molecular structure (essential oil components typically have a molecular weight of 200-250) and their fat solubility. These properties allow them to dissolve within the sebum that holds our skin cells together, effectively navigating through the layers of the skin until they reach the deeper fatty tissues and even the bloodstream.

In contrast, vegetable carrier oils have a much higher molecular weight, making them too large to penetrate the skin's deeper layers. However, cold-pressed and virgin carrier oils still play a crucial role in skincare. They can significantly improve the outward appearance of the skin, and trace amounts of their fat-soluble vitamins and other beneficial elements can indeed access the skin. Primarily, carrier oils excel at helping the surface layers of the skin by reducing inflammation.

The Multifaceted Functions of Your Skin

Your skin is a busy organ, performing a multitude of essential tasks:

• Vitamin D Production: It synthesizes vital Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
• Shape and Structure: It literally gives us our form!

Barrier Protection: 
It prevents excessive liquid absorption (we don't soak up bathwater!). While not entirely waterproof, it's highly water-resistant. This is crucial, as it allows moisturizers and other skincare to actually penetrate.

Temperature Regulation and Hydration: 
It regulates sweat output to keep us cool and prevent dryness. It also produces sebum, an oily fat that forms a protective layer, regulates pH balance, and moisturizes the skin. Good skincare respects this natural pH and doesn't strip away too much sebum

Bacterial Defense: 
It acts as a tough, protective barrier against bacteria. Any break in this barrier, like a scratch or insect bite, can be a potential entry point for harmful microorganisms.

Constant Renewal: 
Skin cells are in a constant state of renewal, with a full cycle from the bottom layer to the surface taking approximately 28 days. These new cells start plump and hydrated, eventually hardening, flattening, and dehydrating on the surface before flaking away – making up a significant portion of our household dust!

The Importance of Skin Care

Establishing a good skincare routine is paramount for healthy, radiant skin, and we'll be exploring this in more detail later. Remember, moisturizing is the cornerstone of good skin health. Taking care of your skin isn't just about aesthetics; it can also have a positive impact on your stress levels and even symptoms of depression the "look good, feel good" factor is real! However, it's crucial to choose your skincare routine wisely – overly complicated routines are often difficult to maintain in the long run.

Understanding the Ageing of Skin

As we journey through life, our bodies naturally begin to lose some of their ability to adapt to the ever-changing environment. This also applies to our skin. The skin's ability to repair itself decreases as cell division and growth slow down. We also see a reduction in water content, and skin circulation retards, impacting the delivery of vital nutrients and the removal of waste products. Over time, cross-linkage, biochemical, and enzyme changes contribute to the visible signs of aging.

Common changes observed in aging skin include:

• Loss of elasticity
• Changes in skin texture
• The development of wrinkles
• The appearance of patchy areas of pigmentation
• Drying and flaking
• Diminished quantity of hair
• The skin may appear thin and glossy.

Scientists have proposed various theories to explain the aging process. The cross-linkage theory suggests that proteins, fats, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) undergo irreversible changes, becoming immobilized by cross-linking agents, leading to a "pooling" within cells that eventually hinders their function.

The genetic hypothesis posits that genetic mutations and a loss of biological information affect the performance of all body cells. Some researchers also suggest that the shrinking of the thymus gland with age can contribute to overall aging, including the skin.

The Free Radical Theory proposes that chemical reactions within cells produce highly reactive by-products called free radicals. These unstable molecules can latch onto other molecules like enzymes and nucleoproteins, causing damage to the skin's structures.

However, arguably the greatest cause of skin aging is damage from ultraviolet (UV) light, the harmful component of sunlight. This damage is typically cumulative, with its effects becoming apparent over the years. When UV light hits the skin, it's mainly scattered or absorbed by the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis) and the adjacent dermis. Upon reaching the basal layer, it triggers chemical changes, leading to the production of melanin within approximately 48 hours as a protective mechanism against further UV radiation.

While epidermal cells have a relatively short lifespan of around 28 days before being replaced, after the age of forty, this cell turnover slows down significantly. This means that dead skin cells aren't shed as efficiently, leading to a build-up that can cause cells to clump together.

The primary age-related changes in the skin naturally occur in the upper third of the dermis. However, significant exposure to UV light can lead to degenerative changes as early as the third decade of life. These changes are more accurately described as physiological aging rather than simply chronological aging. The chemical changes within the dermis due to aging are complex. The enzyme that breaks down elastic fibers increases, the amount of insoluble collagen rises, and there are quantitative changes in both collagen and the ground substance. It's also believed that the decrease in dermal hyaluronic acid as skin ages contributes to dehydration and the progressive aging changes seen in older skin.

The effects of aging are visible across the entire body, but there are notable differences between skin that has been consistently exposed to solar rays and skin that hasn't. Sun-exposed skin tends to appear dry, wrinkled, and may exhibit brown patchy pigmentation and dilated capillaries. The aging process is noticeably more pronounced in these areas.

All of this underscores the need for active ingredients in skincare. For example, vitamin C is known to be helpful for stimulating the thymus, and incorporating hyaluronic acid into skincare can supplement the skin's natural levels. This highlights the critical importance of skincare formulation – every ingredient and its potential effect must be carefully considered before creating a product for testing.

It's also crucial to have realistic expectations. Ageing factors like collagen collapse may not be reversible. Once elastin loses its stretch, regaining it can be incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Therefore, it's wise to approach skincare claims with a degree of healthy skepticism.

For skincare to function optimally, it needs to be light and allow the skin to "breathe." Occlusive cosmetics can hinder this process. Oxygen is essential for the skin to create new cells and maintain a fresh appearance. Water is also vital, so a good moisturizer needs to deliver hydration in a way that is easily absorbed without a heavy base that suffocates the skin. Crafting an effective moisturizer is indeed a science, and generally, higher-quality products are more adept at delivering water to the deeper layers of the skin.

The Anatomy of Wrinkles

Wrinkles can manifest in four primary types:

• Orthostatic: These lines form in areas where there's naturally an excess of skin to allow for movement, such as the lines around the neck. They can be present at birth or appear shortly after.
• Gravitational: These lines are a result of the force of gravity pulling on the skin, such as the vertical lines that appear on the cheeks in later years due to sagging.
• Dynamic: These lines are caused by the repetitive contraction of muscles. Over time, they tend to deepen and become visible even at rest. Examples include horizontal forehead wrinkles and frown lines. Fine lines above the mouth and "laughter" lines around the mouth also fall into this category.
• Combination: Many wrinkles are a result of a combination of these factors.

Around the eyes, "crow's feet" are a classic example of dynamic wrinkles, formed by the interplay of the eye muscles. The degree of expression and muscle movement influences their depth. Genetics also play a role, and "laughing with the eyes" can be a hereditary trait.

The World of Cosmetics

Cosmetic counters are brimming with products promising to prevent and counteract wrinkles and other age-related changes. The most effective anti-aging skincare often features ingredients like vitamin A, fatty acids, and minerals such as vitamin E and biotin. They may also include analogues of natural metabolics found in the skin, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate for energy), hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, or natural substances and compounds like fruit acids and extracts of Ginkgo biloba or other plants. At Penny Price Aromatherapy, we are proud to offer a paraben-free, natural skincare range specifically designed to care for mature skin.

The "anti-wrinkle" substances in most products typically work in one of two ways. They either aim to increase the skin's water content, which can temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines by plumping up the epidermis, or, more importantly, they attempt to biologically stimulate skin tissue. A common approach is to use specific factors that increase cell reproduction at the base of the epidermis. Another strategy is to enhance circulation in the dermis, bringing more blood flow and nutrients to the skin cells, or to improve the cells' oxygen utilization, thereby stimulating skin metabolism. Interestingly, essential oils can also stimulate skin metabolism.

The Power of Gentle Exfoliation

Gentle exfoliation, the removal of the top layers of the epidermis through chemical or physical means, can be beneficial for refining aging skin and smoothing its texture. It also enhances the skin's receptiveness to subsequent treatment products like moisturizers and antioxidant creams. However, it's crucial to emphasize gentle exfoliation to avoid irritation and damage.

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), also known as "fruit" acids, are commonly used for this purpose and offer additional benefits. The four most prevalent AHAs are glycolic acid (from sugar cane), malic acid (from apples), lactic acid (from milk), and pyruvic acid (from papaya). They come in varying strengths and work by dissolving the intercellular "glue" that holds old, surface skin cells together. As these cells are removed, the skin appears finer and brighter because it reflects light more effectively. AHAs are also believed to increase hyaluronic acid levels and stimulate collagen production, which forms the skin's supportive connective tissue.

The Vital Role of Water

Youthful skin boasts an impressive 14 pints of water, which is largely responsible for its healthy appearance. Most of this water resides in the deeper layers – the dermis and hypodermis – where it forms a semi-fluid gel with glucosaminoglycans (GAGs) or mucopolysaccharides and polysaccharides. These substances, along with healthy collagen, contribute to the skin's plumpness, elasticity, and youthful feel. As long as your body's overall water balance is maintained, the water content of these deeper layers will generally be sufficient.

Establishing a Good Skin Care Routine

A consistent and effective skincare routine is paramount for achieving and maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. To help prevent the onset of aging, the skin should be cleansed, toned, nourished, and moisturized regularly. However, at Penny Price Aromatherapy, we advocate for routines that are easy and quick to follow, ensuring they become a sustainable part of your daily life rather than a chore.

Here's an example of a simple yet effective routine:

Every Morning

• Cleanse: To remove impurities and prepare the skin.
• Tone: To balance the skin's pH and refine pores.
• Moisturize: Apply a day cream to hydrate and protect.
• Once a week (optional): Apply a face oil under your moisturizer for an extra boost of nourishment.

Every Evening

• Cleanse: To remove makeup and daily grime.
• Tone: To further cleanse and balance
• Moisturize: Apply a night cream to deeply hydrate and support repair.
• Twice a week: Use a face mask to target specific skin concerns.
• At least twice a week, Apply a serum or face oil under your night cream for enhanced treatment.

When Using Makeup

Always apply a primer first. This creates a light barrier between makeup and your skin, helps makeup apply more evenly, and prolongs its wear.

Introducing Penny Price Aromatherapy Skincare: Nurturing Your Skin Naturally

At Penny Price Aromatherapy, we've carefully formulated a range of natural, vegan skincare products designed to cleanse, nourish, and protect your skin, helping you achieve a healthy and radiant complexion. Here's a glimpse into our Illuminous collection.

Illuminous Morning Fresh Pure Cleanse - Shop Here

A light, creamy lotion that purifies and cleanses the skin deeply yet gently, removing any traces of makeup and impurities. Enriched with geranium and lavender to cleanse and soothe.  

• Method of Use: Use 2 or 3 pumps of product into the hands, and apply over face, neck, and around eyes, massaging into the skin. Rinse with water or a damp flannel/facial sponge to purify skin.

 

Illuminous Night Perfection Pure Cleanse - Shop Here

A rich cleansing cream that gently removes all traces of make-up, lifts impurities, and leaves the skin feeling soft and clean without dryness. Contains geranium to cleanse and balance the skin.  

• Method of Use: Apply about half a teaspoonful into the palms of the hands, rub together, and spread over face, neck, and around eyes, massaging into the skin. Rinse with water or a damp flannel/facial sponge to purify skin. For best results, use every evening before sleeping to wake up to an illuminous day.

 

Illuminous Refresh and Revive Toner - Shop Here

Fresh Eau de Rose infused with sweet Neroli Flower Oil to refine and minimize pores. Leaves skin feeling hydrated, soothed, and fresh. Suitable for all skin types.  

• Method of Use: Use 2 pumps of Refresh and Revive toner on damp cotton wool, and gently wipe upwards and outwards over the entire face and neck areas for an illuminous glow.  

 

Illuminous Deep Moisture Replenishing Mask -Shop Here

Delivers intense moisturization to help soften signs of aging. Formulated with exotic oils of ylang ylang flower and vetiver root combined with pure honey to plump and hydrate skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.

• Method of Use: Smooth a small amount gently over the cleansed face and neck. Leave the mask to replenish and moisturize for 3-5 minutes, then rinse, tone, and moisturize for illuminous skin.

 

Illuminous Tighten and Tone Firming Mask -Shop Here

The perfect balance of lupin seed, Aloe Vera, and tightening plant cell structures to deliver a beautiful toning effect for youthful, firm skin.  

• Method of Use: Smooth a small amount gently over cleansed face and neck. Leave the mask to tighten and tone for up to 10 minutes, then rinse, tone, and moisturize for illuminous skin.

 

Illuminous Bright and Radiant Moisture Milk - Shop Here

Radiance-boosting rose water, Golden Kelp, and Vitamin E come together to impart even skin tone, radiance, and intense moisturization.

• Method of Use: Pump twice into the palms of the hands and rub together. Apply with palms to the face and neck after completing a cleanse and tone. Leave to fully absorb for several minutes before applying make-up to Bright and Radiant Illuminous skin.

 

Illuminous Super Hydrating Day Cream - Shop Here

Formulated to combat the effects of aging, this beautifully intense day cream gives skin a smooth and nourished appearance. Contains precious oils of regenerating lavender flower and anti-aging palmarosa to promote healthy, radiant skin.

• Method of Use: Apply a small amount to your face and neck after completing your cleanse and tone, to hydrate your skin for an Illuminous day.

 

Illuminous Super Soothing Moisture Cream - Shop Here

Formulated with precious oils of lavender, bergamot, juniper, and chamomile, this cream is especially for sensitive, flaky, red, or itchy skin. It glides on easily, soothing and calming your skin. Good for eczema-type skin.

• Method of Use: Apply a small amount to your face and neck after completing your cleanse and tone. Leave to fully absorb for several minutes before applying make-up to your calmed and soothed Illuminous skin.

 

Illuminous Perfect Harmony Moisture Cream - Shop Here

With pure Shea Butter and Hazelnut Oil infused with Juniper Needle oil, this is the perfect moisturizer for combination skin. Contains active ingredients to complement your skin for a naturally balanced look, helping to give an even skin tone and minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

• Method of Use: Apply about half a teaspoonful to the face and neck after completing a cleanse and tone. Leave to fully absorb for several minutes before applying make-up to your harmoniously balanced skin.

 

Illuminous Night to Light Renewal Night Cream - Shop Here

This rich and buttery night cream works while you sleep to deliver deep moisturization and diminish fine lines. Enriched with Camellia Oil, Konjac Root, Vitamin E, and Carrot Seed Oil to help renew and rejuvenate your skin.

• Method of Use: Apply to your face and neck after completing your cleanse and tone, preparing your skin to wake up to an Illuminous morning.

 

Illuminous Picture Perfect Primer - Shop Here 

Herbal extracts of Eyebright, Yarrow, and Mallow combine with precious oils of Rose Flower and Neroli Flower to give an instant tightening and brightening effect, smoothing out fine lines to provide a perfect base for flawless make-up and a Picture-Perfect look.

• Method of Use: After thorough cleansing and toning, massage a small amount to your face and neck until gently absorbed. Leave for several minutes before applying make-up to your perfectly primed Illuminous skin.

 

Illuminous Perfectly Smooth Eye Serum - Shop Here

· A lightweight formula, rich in moisturizers, peptides, and natural essential oils of Fennel Seed, Geranium, and Patchouli to help reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.  

• Methods of Use: Apply a small amount to your eyelids and around your eyes after completing your cleanse and tone. Leave to fully absorb for several minutes to enrich the delicate eye tissues before applying moisturizer to your Illuminous skin.

 

Illuminous Intense Night to Light Repair Serum - Shop Here 

Antioxidant and cell-renewing, this light formula keeps skin looking dewy and bright. Contains precious oils of Passion Flower and Rosehip combined with Vitamin C and Aloe Vera for repair while you sleep.

• Methods of Use: Apply a small amount to your face and neck after completing cleansing and toning, preparing your skin for an Illuminous morning. Overlay with Night to Light Renewal Night Cream for an even more intense effect.

 

Illuminous Radiance Boost Rose Facial Oil - Shop Here

The exotic blend of Rose Flower Oil with Rosehip Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Mexican Poppy extract brings deep moisturization and radiance while being antioxidant and protective for dry skin.

• Methods of Use: Apply onto a cleansed, dry face and neck for an illuminous boost to your skin. Overlay with Super Hydrating Day Cream for all-day intense protection.

 

Illuminous Daytime Plump Neroli Facial Oil - Shop Here

Orange Blossom Flower oil combined with Sea Plant extracts and Avocado Nut Oil plumps and hydrates your skin during the day for the perfect fresh, dewy look.

• Methods of Use: Apply to a cleansed, dry face and neck for illuminous skin throughout the day. Overlay with Super Hydrating Day Cream for all-day intense moisturization.

 

Illuminous Night to Light Recovery Jasmine Facial Oil - Shop Here

Exotic Jasmine Flower oil combined with Lupin Seed extract, Evening Primrose oil, and Sunflower Seed oil is protective and nourishing, working while you sleep to deliver a moist, fresh morning face. 

• Methods of Use: Apply to a cleansed, dry face and neck for illuminous skin when you wake. Overlay with Night to Light Renewal Night Cream to enhance the effects.

 

I hope you have enjoyed this blog. We love to hear from you so do give us feedback on the blog and the recipes, and how they have worked for you or your clients. All the products mentioned are available from www.penny-price.com or you can phone your order through or get advice on 01455 251020. If you are interested in training with us, please call, or email our course administrator on [email protected]. Thank you for reading! Penny Price X